Islamabad: Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, chaired the inaugural meeting of the Committee on Genetically Modified (GM) Corn. The committee, established by the Prime Minister, is tasked with reviewing Pakistan’s policy on the commercialization of genetically modified maize through an objective and evidence-driven approach.

According to Press Information Department, the Finance Minister emphasized that the committee’s mandate is to focus on evidence-based deliberations, ensuring all stakeholder perspectives are considered before formulating recommendations. The Ministry of National Food Security and Research provided a detailed briefing on the National Agricultural Biotechnology Policy, highlighting international regulatory practices and scientific assessments.

During the meeting, scientific evidence on GM maize commercialization was reviewed, including international experiences, regulatory frameworks, and biosafety assessments. Discussions also addressed productivity gains, climate resilience, and food security. Economic implications, such as domestic demand and export opportunities, were examined alongside international trade practices and certification mechanisms.

Various representatives from government institutions, regulatory bodies, the private sector, and industry shared their perspectives on the benefits, challenges, and regulatory preparedness related to GM maize commercialization. The Finance Minister reiterated the necessity for recommendations to be grounded in scientific evidence and aligned with Pakistan’s long-term national interests.

Senator Aurangzeb highlighted agriculture’s role in Pakistan’s economic growth, stressing the importance of productivity and food security through modern technologies. The meeting concluded with a call for ongoing objective deliberations, integrating stakeholder input into the final recommendations.