China Issues First Licenses for Production, Sale of GM Corn, Soy Seeds

China has issued the first batch of licenses for the production and sale of genetically modified (GM) corn and soybean seed varieties, paving the way for the commercialization of these crops that could help the country boost output and reduce its dependence on imported food.

Authorities have yet to disclose detailed plans for the sale and planting of these varieties, although they have said the licenses granted to seed producers will be valid until Dec. 24, 2028, in 13 provincial-level regions, including Beijing and major grain-producing provinces such as Hebei, Liaoning, Jilin and Inner Mongolia.