CLPA urges timely implementation of agri biotech policy

The CropLife Pakistan Association (CLPA) has called on seed and agriculture stakeholders to back the timely rollout of the National Agricultural Biotechnology Policy, which was approved by the Prime Minister and Federal Cabinet, Business Recorder reported. The group also urged them to take part in adopting genetically modified (GM) maize technologies. Speaking on Tuesday, CLPA Executive Director Rashid Ahmed said recent public commentary had created misleading worries about GM maize, including over cross-pollination and the future of the domestic seed industry.

Ahmed argued that innovation, local seed companies and national farming interests could advance together through a transparent and science-based regulatory system. He said the country now requires action, cooperation and positive engagement rather than false information or opposition driven by narrow business interests. He cited licensing arrangements in the Philippines and Vietnam, where local seed businesses developed and supplied GM maize hybrids after regulatory approvals.

The CLPA said its member companies follow international practice, under which national seed firms can license technologies and form partnerships. It has invited local seed associations and companies to talks on licensing, stewardship and commercialization, saying open discussion could address real concerns and give farmers better options. According to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26, around 76 percent of maize seed needs during July-March were met through imports, with 24 percent coming from domestic public and private-sector seed output.