China has never approved the commercial planting of genetically modified grain seeds in China.

(important news of the two sessions) Wei Chaoan: China has never approved the commercial cultivation of genetically modified grain seeds in China.

Beijing, March 10 (Xinhua) Vice Minister of Agriculture Wei Chaoan said in an interview with reporters on the 10th that the Ministry of Agriculture has never approved the import of any kind of genetically modified grain seeds for commercial cultivation in China, and there is no commercial cultivation of genetically modified food crops in China.

Wei Chaoan said: promoting the research and application of genetically modified biotechnology is a general trend and an important strategic measure for China to implement science and technology to revitalize agriculture. Genetically modified biotechnology is known as "one of the most rapidly applied technologies in human history". Developed countries have taken the development of genetically modified biotechnology as a strategic focus to seize the commanding heights of science and technology in the future and enhance the international competitiveness of agriculture. Developing countries are also actively following. Promoting the research and application of genetically modified biotechnology is a major development strategy for China to revitalize agriculture through science and education and enhance the competitiveness of science and technology.

He said: the Chinese government exercises strict control over the safety of genetically modified organisms in accordance with the law. The Chinese government attaches great importance to the safety management of agricultural genetically modified organisms, insisting on giving priority to legislation, having laws to follow, and ensuring law enforcement, and has formed a set of laws and regulations, technical regulations and management systems that suit China's national conditions and link up with international practice.

He said that the Ministry of Agriculture approved and issued applications for safety evaluation of genetically modified rice and corn after a rigorous evaluation of 11 years and six years respectively, fully reflecting China's cautious attitude towards the research and application of genetically modified biotechnology.

He stressed that the issuance of safety certificates is an evaluation and affirmation of scientists' research work and achievements in genetically modified biotechnology, and is not the same as allowing commercial production. In accordance with relevant laws and regulations, commercial production can only be carried out through regional and production tests that are more stringent than the approval of ordinary crop varieties, as well as strict examination and approval of production and business licenses.