China allowed to import GMO canola for animal feed

China’s Ministry of Agriculture said on Tuesday, October 18, that it is allowing imports of a genetically modified, herbicide-resistant canola product for a five-year period, Reuters reported.

The product is BASF’s herbicide-resistant canola. The crop has been allowed to be imported for processing into China since Sept. 28.

China allows imports of GM crops used in animal feed, but trading partners say the process is not always based on science and is often driven by politics.

Beijing is taking a cautious approach to GM technology, although Chinese President Xi Jinping has increasingly supported the use of the technology, which he says is critical to improving food security.

Tags: rapeseed, China