Minister orders analysis of Soybean yield gap

July 29, 2025(MLN): Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr. Musadik Malik, has directed relevant departments to conduct a comparative analysis to understand the significant yield gap between locally grown and imported soybean, and the high cost of domestic production.

Chairing a high-level committee meeting focused on the import and regulatory framework of Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) soybean meal in Pakistan, Dr. Malik stressed the importance of grounding all policy decisions in rigorous scientific evidence.

He noted that Pakistan’s soybean yield lags behind global benchmarks, and questioned why the production cost of locally produced soybean seed and meal remains disproportionately higher compared to imported alternatives, said a press release issued.

The Minister emphasized that such a disparity must be thoroughly investigated to improve domestic agriculture productivity and competitiveness.

The meeting also addressed biosafety and regulatory concerns linked to GMO soybean seed and meal, including potential gene escape and associated environmental risks.

It was agreed that clear and stringent safety protocols are essential before any decisions on GMO adoption.

To guide future policy, a committee led by renowned scientist Prof. Kosar Abdullah Malik was formed to organize a national conference within ten days.

The conference will engage local and international experts to provide scientific input for developing seed and biotechnology policies.

Dr. Malik further directed that a comprehensive policy framework encompassing biosafety, biotechnology, and regulatory oversight be finalized and implemented within 90 days to ensure sustainable agricultural development and long-term food security.

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