GMO Soybean Imports Under Review as Musadik Malik Calls for Evidence-Based Policy Overhaul

Federal Minister Dr. Musadik Malik has urged for science-driven decisions in the regulation of GMO soybean meal imports, as Pakistan works to bridge yield and cost disparities in its agricultural sector.

During a committee meeting on GMO soy, Dr. Malik asked for a comparative scientific analysis to understand why Pakistan’s local soybean yield remains low and production costs remain high compared to global standards. The goal, he said, is to craft policy that promotes self-reliance in agriculture while ensuring environmental safety.

Key topics at the meeting included biosafety risks, particularly gene escape from GMO seeds, and the need for rigorous safety protocols. Dr. Malik directed that a policy framework be finalized within 90 days that addresses not only the regulation of GMOs but also broader issues in biotechnology and seed development.

To guide this process, a national conference will be held within 10 days, under the leadership of Prof. Kosar Abdullah Malik, bringing together scientists and researchers to offer expert recommendations.

The minister reaffirmed that any future decisions must balance scientific validation, environmental impact, and Pakistan’s food security goals.