The National Biosafety Committee (NBC) of Pakistan has approved the country’s first genetically modified (GM) sugarcane and advanced cotton varieties for commercialization during its 35th meeting. The approved sugarcane lines, CABB-IRS and CABB-HTS, are safe for humans, animals, and the environment, having passed safety trials and DUS testing, and will now undergo National Uniform Yield Trials (NUYT). The NBC also approved two GM cotton varieties, CEMB-AAS3 and NIBGE-1601, which resist pests and tolerate herbicides and diseases. Additionally, the Committee allowed the import of 43 GM canola events, which have beneficial traits for health and agriculture.

Original Link: https://pid.gov.pk/site/press_detail/30733