Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has directed stakeholders to prepare consensus-based recommendations on genetically modified maize, with a focus on regulation, biosafety, agricultural productivity and food security.
Chairing the second meeting of the GM Maize Committee, the finance minister approved the formation of a working group comprising representatives from the government and private sector.
The working group will formulate recommendations covering the regulatory framework, biosafety requirements and an interim strategy for the possible introduction and use of GM maize.
The committee agreed that final recommendations would be developed after consultations with all relevant stakeholders and presented on the basis of consensus.
During the meeting, participants discussed the potential of modern agricultural technology to increase crop production, strengthen food security, reduce dependence on imports and improve Pakistan’s agricultural competitiveness.
The meeting also emphasised the need to protect the interests of the domestic maize milling industry and safeguard the country’s export markets.
Participants agreed that GM and non-GM maize could be used simultaneously, provided a strong regulatory and biosafety framework was established.
Aurangzeb said an effective regulatory system was essential to address health, environmental and commercial concerns associated with genetically modified crops.
The Ministry of Finance also stressed the importance of improving supply-chain management and establishing an effective traceability system for GM maize.
Aurangzeb said the government remained committed to promoting modern agricultural technologies while ensuring the protection of local industry, consumers and export interests.
