Two more genetically modified corn varieties granted biosafety certificates

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has granted biosafety certificates to two genetically modified corn varieties, after recognizing the first variety last August.

Two corn varieties, GA21 of Syngenta Vietnam Co., Ltd. and NK603 of Dekalb Vietnam Co., Ltd. (Monsanto), both have herbicide tolerance.

Genetically modified corn is being used by many people. Photo: TV

The Ministry of Natural Resources decided to grant biosafety certificates to the two corn varieties after evaluating and examining the registration dossiers. The dossiers were carefully reviewed and evaluated by scientists in the Expert Group, who have expertise and experience in related fields, and the Biosafety Council with members representing ministries and branches.

The certified organization must organize the management and monitoring of biosafety and must report in writing once a year on the time, location and area of ​​release of genetically modified corn to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

Before being granted a biosafety certificate in Vietnam, genetically modified corn NK603 was approved by 11 countries and GA21 was licensed for release into the environment by 9 countries; including developed countries such as the US and Canada.

At the end of August, the Ministry of Natural Resources issued the first certificate for genetically modified corn, MON 89034. Previously, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development issued food safety and animal feed certificates for genetically modified corn NK603, MON 89034, GA21 and MIR162.

The approval of three genetically modified corn varieties means that Vietnam can plant them without any biosafety management measures. But to truly commercialize them, the corn varieties still need to be recognized by the Ministry of Agriculture and included in the list of plant varieties allowed for production and business.

According to vnexpress