CropLife Pakistan conducted a value assessment trial of genetically modified
(GM) maize seed technology to exhibit benefits of biotechnology and allow
key stakeholders to observe first-hand the performance of the GM maize
hybrids in the field. The event emphasized the importance of cultivating GM
maize in Pakistan to move from subsistence farming practices to more
technologically advanced commercial farming.

Muhammad Asim, Chair of CropLife Pakistan Biotech and Seed Committee briefed
the media on the importance of adopting biotechnology for Pakistan. Pakistan
Agriculture Research Council (PARC) in National Uniform Yield Trials (NUYT)
reported that the yield advantage falls between 10% and 45% for biotech
maize hybrids against traditional hybrids. Globally, the countries that
adopted biotech crops have experienced various benefits including increase
in average yields. The U.S., for example, improved its average yield by 56%
while the average maize crop yields of Brazil and the Philippines have also
increased by 102% and 72%, respectively.

"Biotechnology is the ideal tool for farmers to improve their profitability
through reduced input cost and improved yields," said Muhammad Asim.

[www.thenews.com.pk]
cased