CHINA has given permission for new strains of genetically-modified (GMO) soybeans and papaya to be imported from the US and has renewed permits for 10 crop varieties that include corn and canola, reported Bloomberg.
The insect-resistant soybean variety was developed by Dow AgroSciences, according to a list published by China's agriculture ministry. US research institutes have genetically altered the papaya strain, which is resistant to some viruses.
The approvals come as China and the US are likely to sign the first phase of their trade deal later this month. The two nations have agreed to accelerate the approval process for imports of GMO crops as part of their push to strengthen bilateral trade.
China buys 60 per cent of globally-traded soybeans, mostly from Brazil and the US, and is also the top importer of canola, particularly from Canada. The oilseeds are processed into protein-rich meals to meet the country's rising demand for livestock feed. The Asian country is also the world's second-largest corn consumer.
Import permits for 10 strains, developed by companies including BASF SE, Dupont Pioneer and Bayer-owned Monsanto, have been renewed.
The GMO varieties, including one strain of corn, four of soy and four of canola, will be permitted for imports until December 2022.
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The insect-resistant soybean variety was developed by Dow AgroSciences, according to a list published by China's agriculture ministry. US research institutes have genetically altered the papaya strain, which is resistant to some viruses.
The approvals come as China and the US are likely to sign the first phase of their trade deal later this month. The two nations have agreed to accelerate the approval process for imports of GMO crops as part of their push to strengthen bilateral trade.
China buys 60 per cent of globally-traded soybeans, mostly from Brazil and the US, and is also the top importer of canola, particularly from Canada. The oilseeds are processed into protein-rich meals to meet the country's rising demand for livestock feed. The Asian country is also the world's second-largest corn consumer.
Import permits for 10 strains, developed by companies including BASF SE, Dupont Pioneer and Bayer-owned Monsanto, have been renewed.
The GMO varieties, including one strain of corn, four of soy and four of canola, will be permitted for imports until December 2022.
WORLD SHIPPING