Pakistan is preparing to move ahead with the introduction of genetically modified (GM) corn for commercial use, with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stressing that the process must now move from policymaking to implementation.

Aurangzeb chaired a committee meeting in Islamabad on Monday to review the country’s approach to GM maize and work out a framework for its gradual introduction into the market.

The committee reached broad agreement on the way forward and decided to complete a detailed transition and implementation plan.

Under the proposed framework, GM and non-GM corn would be allowed to exist side by side. The committee discussed safeguards for both types, the supply of non-GM seeds, transition timelines and steps to avoid unnecessary increases in seed prices.

Industry representatives raised concerns about the transition period, access to non-GM seeds and the potential impact on existing businesses. The committee said the shift to GM corn would be gradual, allowing businesses and other stakeholders time to adjust.

Aurangzeb said the government’s work should not stop at drafting policy. He called for the agreed approach to be implemented effectively, with practical timelines and no unnecessary delays.

The meeting also covered the broader use of modern farming technology and improvements in harvesting, storage and related infrastructure to raise agricultural productivity.

The committee will now finalise the transition and implementation framework. The recommendations will then be forwarded to the relevant authorities for further action.

Officials and representatives from the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, the Prime Minister’s agriculture and food-security team, the Pakistan Green Initiative, business and export sectors, as well as seed, academic and technical experts attended the meeting.