Asia May Stall On GM Rice
25 August 2006 Wang further noted that countries which rely on rice as a chief export (such as Thailand and Vietnam) are likely to delay adoption longer for fear of losing marketing opportunities in countries that do not accept GM rice for import.
This news comes depite earlier indications that GM rice might be available in China as soon as this season. “Genetically modified rice in China is at least two years away,” said Wang in the Reusters interview. “My understanding is that concerns of the government in China are mainly focused on the fact whether it’s going to be accepted by consumers. There are also some political and environmental considerations.”
GM rice, which could cut the cost of production, increse yields, and make the grain more affordable to consumers, has been a major area of research for China, India, and the Philippines, where the crop is a staple food.
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