February 24, 2012

China bans transgenic methods in major grain processing

On February 21, China announced an initial version of food law, banning the application of transgenic technologies in major grain production in the country.

The draft makes it clear that the scientific research, experiment, production, sales, import and export of transgenic food seeds are expected to come in line with the rules and regulations.

The country will strengthen the planning of food production capacity, set up grain production bases for commercial use, and explore environmental-friendly production bases with advantages in resources and output when conditions permit, according to the State Council, the country's cabinet.

The above-county-level governments are suggested to deploy grain production suitable for local ecology, water resources, and climate in accordance with the central government scheme, said the State Council.

The government will support and encourage the research, innovation, protection and application of food production technologies as well as application and R&D of safety-secured, environmental-friendly, and high-efficiency pesticide, fertilisers, agricultural films and agricultural machineries to improve the quality and quantity of grain.