(ECNS) -- China is considering removing a ban on foreign investment into GMO research in the country.
On November 4, the National Development and Reform Commission updated a draft catalogue of industries for foreign investment, which will lift a ban on GMO research funded by foreign companies, while developing and growing crops remains off-limits.
The draft is seeking consultation until December 3.
Although China has been devoting resources to the research and development of GMOs, public debate on the safety of the type of crops has become increasingly intense in the last few years. Many people choose to shun GM food, and have become very concerned over news about mislabeling or GMOs leaking out onto the market.
China banned the research and development of GM crops by foreign companies more than a decade ago. In recent years, high level officials and the Ministry of Agriculture have been educating the public about the safety of such crops, and stressing the importance of technology in increasing grain yields.
"In many parts of China, agricultural production occurs at the cost of the environment," said Li Wei, Director of the State Council Development Research Center. "Problems such as the use of too much chemicals and excessive withdrawal of underground water are taking a toll."
President Xi Jinping talked about GMOs at a rural work meeting in December 2013, saying innovation should be encouraged as long as safety is guaranteed.
Lifting the ban on foreign investment into GMO research is a step to the further opening up of China's agriculture industry, and will greatly boost GMO innovation, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Yu Xinrong said.
Foreign companies are hailing the change.
Williams Niebur, Vice President of American chemical company DuPont, said he's very pleased to see the change while the company itself feels greatly encouraged.
