The media questioned that China has almost no defense against imports of genetically modified foods
Original title: Are China's Genetically Modified Imports Protected? While China has approved the cultivation of genetically modified cotton, the use of imported genetically modified soybeans, corn, and rapeseed is strictly limited to industrial processing. This means these crops are not intended for direct consumption or planting within the country. Despite global skepticism about the safety of genetically modified (GM) foods, China has maintained an open approach to GM imports. The country has not implemented strict prohibitions or extensive regulations on such products, leading to growing concerns among some citizens. On June 13, it was reported that China recently approved the import of four genetically modified crops from Argentina, including three types of genetically modified soybeans and one genetically modified corn variety. The previous day, Brazil also announced that China had cleared the import of three GM soybean varieties produced in Brazil. As of press time, the Ministry of Agriculture has not issued any official statement regarding these approvals. Is genetic modification really so dangerous? Genetic modification is undeniably one of the most controversial scientific breakthroughs of the 21st century. While some view it as a revolutionary step toward solving food shortages and improving agricultural efficiency, others see it as a potential threat to human health and the environment. Critics argue that consuming GM foods is akin to conducting human experiments, exposing people to unknown risks. Sun Guangmei, a research analyst at Zhuo Chuang, an information economics firm, told the “International Financial News†reporter that the global data on genetically modified species is still incomplete. As a result, public doubts remain widespread. "In addition to ongoing food safety issues, it’s natural for people to feel anxious and uncertain," she said. Ma Wenfeng, an agricultural analyst with Eastern Iger, emphasized the need for a cautious and scientific approach when dealing with GM crops. "In theory, today’s edible GM foods are mostly safe, but there is no guarantee that they won’t cause adverse effects on humans. Therefore, testing standards must be rigorous and thorough." An agricultural expert told the reporter that people shouldn't fear genetic modification too much, as many GM foods are already part of daily life. Sweet peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, corn, and even milk have genetically modified varieties that have been approved by the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture for planting. Even rice, a staple food in China, has GM versions being developed. The increasing presence of GM foods in the market shows how dependent society has become on them. "The real issue isn't genetic modification itself, but the high-tech production methods involved, such as herbicides, pesticides, and chemical fertilizers," the expert added. Strict Domestic Standards Despite the large number of GM imports, some people question whether China is relaxing its standards for genetically modified organisms. However, this perception is incorrect. In fact, China maintains very strict testing and certification processes for GM crops, especially when they come from abroad. These crops undergo additional scrutiny before being allowed into the country. Sun Guangmei pointed out that imported GM soybeans and corn are primarily used for oil extraction rather than planting, which helps reduce the risk of unauthorized cultivation. She also noted that due to China’s limited domestic soybean production, importing foreign GM crops is necessary to maintain stable prices in the edible oil market. The Ministry of Agriculture’s official website announced in April that the National Agricultural Genetically Modified Organism Safety Committee has approved import safety certificates for four GM crops: cotton, soybeans, corn, and rapeseed. Except for genetically modified cotton, which is cultivated domestically, the use of imported GM soybeans, corn, and rapeseed is strictly limited to processing. According to Chinese law, GM crops used as raw materials for processing cannot be replanted or grown within the country. To date, China has not approved the import of any genetically modified food crop seeds. Ma Wenfeng believes that while GM crops from the U.S., such as corn, are largely genetically modified for higher yields and pest resistance, this is understandable and beneficial for increasing agricultural output. "As long as the country maintains strict control during the inspection process, GM technology is not as dangerous as some people believe." windows that open outward,aluminium sliding window,aluminium sliding windows prices SMIRO DOORS AND WINDOWS CO., LTD , https://www.smirowindows.com