Australian associations welcome Pakistan’s approval of GM canola imports

Pakistan has officially approved the import of canola containing genetically modified (GM) components, bringing positive news to Grain Trade Australia (GTA) and the Australian Oilseeds Federation (AOF), organizations representing one of the world’s largest oilseed production and export sectors.

The trade approval follows years of engagement and technical consultations between the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF) and the Pakistani government. The industry groups noted that DAFF prepared detailed scientific and technical materials and participated in relevant negotiations, which played a key role in achieving this decision.

GTA CEO Pat O’Shannessy emphasized that this decision expands export opportunities for Australian farmers and traders.

“The Pakistani market has consistently maintained over 500,000 tonnes of canola per year over the past five years. This opens up valuable opportunities in both volume and value. Furthermore, as the share of GM canola in Australia grows, Pakistan now has access to greater volumes of Australian supplies,” he said.

The GTA and AOF noted that they support the principles of science-based and regulated international grain trade and will continue to collaborate with other Australian industry associations to advance these approaches globally.

According to the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARES), canola production in the country is expected to grow 1% year-on-year in 2025-26, reaching 6.4 million tonnes—34% above the decade average and the third-largest crop on record.

AOF Chair Rosemary Richards noted that Pakistan’s decision “reinforces confidence in the stability of the Australian canola market.”

“Science-based and predictable market access is key to reliable trade relations. This decision supports Australian producers and exporters by confirming the international recognition of our technologies and GM production systems,” she said.

While final import procedures are still being finalized, the GTA advised that Pakistani importers will likely be required to obtain special licenses or permits for GM canola. The association recommended its members take this requirement into account when planning trade deals.

Tags: Australia, Pakistan, rapeseed, GM