China approves GM corn and soybean seed varieties to increase yield

China has approved dozens of genetically modified corn and soybean seed varieties for planting, a breakthrough that could ultimately boost production and reduce dependence on foreign supplies. The country is the world's largest importer of soybeans and corn. Large-scale marketing of GM crops will support the government's push for food self-sufficiency and security, a top priority for President Xi Jinping. A national committee set up by the agriculture ministry has approved 37 varieties of GM corn seeds and 14 varieties of soybean seeds after preliminary review, the ministry said on Tuesday. The approved list, which includes four corn varieties developed by China National Seed Group, a unit of Syngenta Group, and five Beijing Dabeinong Technology Group soybean varieties, is available for public inspection until November 15. The actual acreage for these seed varieties, after final approval, shall be in accordance with relevant government regulations, a notification on the website of ...