Pakistan moves to liberalize GM rules with major biosafety reforms

Pakistan has decided to significantly liberalize its regulation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) by approving major amendments to the country’s 2005 biosafety rules. The reform includes simplified licensing procedures, easier imports of GM crops, and expanded opportunities for biotechnology research.

The decision was made during a meeting of the National Biosafety Committee in Islamabad attended by officials from the Ministry of Climate Change, the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA), and industry experts. The proposed amendments have already been recommended for cabinet approval.

One of the key reforms is the removal of the “sunset clause” introduced in 2024, which limited GM imports until January 2027. Under the revised framework, imports of genetically modified soybeans and canola will continue without a fixed expiration date.

The updated rules also formally recognize modern gene-editing technologies and grant greater authority to universities and private research institutions. Institutional Biosafety Committees will be allowed to independently approve student and laboratory research projects without lengthy bureaucratic procedures.

In addition, multinational biotechnology companies will be able to directly apply for licenses for specific GM products. Once approved by the National Biosafety Committee, these licenses will be published on the Pak-EPA website, allowing private importers to bring in approved GMO products without obtaining separate permits.

Pakistan’s government says the reform is aimed at making the regulatory system more open, science-based, and investment-friendly. Officials expect the changes to support the edible oil, animal feed, and food processing sectors, which heavily rely on imported GM raw materials.

Tags: Pakistan, soybean, rapeseed, GM