Pakistan's Farmers and Exporters Unite Against GMO Corn Approval

A recent decision to approve genetically modified (GMO) corn cultivation in Pakistan has sparked widespread alarm among farmers, scientists, and exporters. At a meeting organized by Zarai Ittehad Pakistan, stakeholders from across the country expressed deep concern over the potential consequences of introducing GMO corn at a commercial level.

The speakers warned that GMO corn could destroy the non-GMO character of Basmati rice, which is Pakistan's golden jewel and earns over one billion dollars in exports annually. Khalid Khokhar, President of Pakistan Kissan Ittehad, rejected approval of GMO maize, saying it was done on the behest of international powers and IMF.

Experts cautioned that dependence on imported GMO corn seed could lead to food shortages across the country and pose a threat to national security. They also pointed out that Pakistan has already achieved significant success in local hybrid corn research and development, with yields exceeding 100 maunds per acre.