China approved new strains of genetically-modified soybeans and papaya for imports and renewed permits for 10 crop varieties, including corn and canola.
The insect-resistant soybean variety has been developed by Dow AgroSciences LLC, according to a list published by China’s agriculture ministry on Monday. The papaya strain, which is resistant to some viruses, has been genetically altered by U.S. research institutes.
The approvals come as China and the U.S. are set to sign the first phase of their trade deal in January. The two countries have agreed to speed up the approval process for imports of GMO crops as part of their efforts to boost bilateral trade.
China purchases more than 60% of globally-traded soybeans, mainly from Brazil and the U.S., and is also the largest importer of canola, especially from Canada. The oilseeds are processed into protein-rich meals to meet the country’s rising demand for livestock feed. The Asian country is the world’s second-largest corn consumer.
Import permits for 10 strains, developed by companies including BASF SE, Dupont Pioneer and Bayer AG-owned Monsanto, have been renewed.
The GMO varieties, including one strain of corn, four of soy and four of canola, will be permitted for imports until December 2022.
