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China's government continues to back genetically modified crops despite public opposition, as part of its efforts to secure long-term food supplies amid growing global instability, according to a report by Modern Diplomacy.
In its report published on 29 January, the outlet said China has set a target of producing 770 million tonnes of grain annually under its five-year agricultural plan, alongside efforts to raise domestic soybean output to 23 million tonnes a year by 2025.
As part of efforts to boost productivity in grains and key oilseeds, including corn, canola and soybeans, China is expected to continue investing in biotechnology and digital technologies, including genetically modified crops, the report said.
In late 2024, China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs granted safety certificates to 12 types of genetically modified crops, including soybeans, corn and cotton. The move was seen as a sign of the government's long-term commitment to integrating biotechnology into its food security strategy.
Significant investment is also being channelled into research and development, particularly in hybrid seed technologies for crops such as rice and wheat.
China's commitment to innovation is reflected in its 14th Five-Year Plan for agriculture (2021-2025), which encouraged the development of "future foods," such as plant-based eggs.
However, the report noted that China's agricultural transformation faces challenges, with concerns over growing reliance on imports of key agricultural products such as edible oils compounded by the negative impact of extreme weather events on domestic production.
Source: Modern Diplomacy