GMO Soybean Revitalizes Pakistan’s Feed Industry
GMO Soybean Imports Reignite Growth in Pakistan’s Feed Sector
The recent approval of genetically modified organism (GMO) soybean imports has triggered a resurgence in Pakistan’s feed industry. Industry experts project that feed output, which had plummeted to 4.5–5.9 million metric tonnes (MMTs), has now rebounded to 7 MMTs and is poised to reach 9 MMTs in the near future. These developments underscore the significance of GMO soybean for Pakistan’s agricultural and feed industries.
No Health Risks Associated with GMO Soybean
Despite concerns, agriculturalists and feed experts affirm that GMO soybeans pose no health risks to humans or animals. Dr. Muhammad Arshad, CEO of Hi-Tech Group of Companies, emphasized that GMO soybean has been widely consumed in developed nations for nearly four decades without any adverse health effects. Global production figures highlight the widespread adoption of GMO soybean:
- United States: Produces 125–140 MMTs annually.
- Brazil: Produces 170 MMTs annually.
- Argentina: Processes 50 MMTs annually.
- Western Europe: Consumes 20–25 MMTs per year.
These figures indicate that leading economies have successfully integrated GMO soybeans into their agricultural ecosystems, and their safety concerns in Pakistan remain unfounded.
Pakistan’s Reliance on Imported GMO Products
Pakistan’s solvent extraction and feed industries are deeply interconnected due to limited value-addition and fractionation processes for soybeans. The oil extraction process leaves behind by-products that are primarily used in animal feed, making the feed industry heavily dependent on GMO soybean imports.
For the past three years, the ban on GMO soybeans led to significant setbacks, including:
- Decline in feed production from 9 MMTs to 4.5 MMTs.
- Rising costs of poultry and livestock feed.
- Disruptions in poultry production, which declined sharply due to high feed costs.
- Limited canola and sunflower meal processing, further affecting the sector.
With the resumption of large-scale crushing operations, Pakistan is now gearing up to process over 2 MMTs of soybeans, along with 1 MMT of canola and sunflower seeds annually. This expansion is expected to bolster domestic feed production and international trade opportunities.
Expanding Export Opportunities for Pakistan
Experts believe that the return of GMO soybean processing could open lucrative export avenues for Pakistan. Several neighboring and Gulf countries present strong demand for soybean meal and by-products, including:
- Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia in Southeast Asia.
- United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman in the Gulf region.
- China and Central Asia through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Pakistan’s strategic location enhances its export potential, and despite challenges such as higher utility costs, favorable exchange rates could offset expenses and make Pakistani exports competitive.
Government Regulations and Quality Control Measures
Noted agriculturalist Nabi Bux Sathio stressed the importance of strict regulatory oversight for imported GMO soybean to maintain quality standards. He warned against unethical practices by some importers, who attempt to sell discarded produce at inflated rates.
He recommended that the government enforce stringent SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) for monitoring soybean imports and processing facilities. Additionally, he urged authorities to invest in high-quality indigenous seed varieties to reduce dependency on imports and enhance local agricultural output.
Revival of the Poultry and Livestock Sectors
The positive effects of GMO soybean imports are already visible in Pakistan’s poultry industry. With stabilized feed supply, poultry production is recovering from previous setbacks, ensuring affordable chicken and eggs for consumers.
Similarly, the livestock sector is expected to benefit from improved feed availability, leading to increased milk and meat production. This will have a trickle-down effect on Pakistan’s food security and economy.
GMO Soybean By-Products: A Multi-Purpose Resource
Soybeans provide numerous value-added by-products, which can further boost Pakistan’s agribusiness industry:
- Soybean oil for cooking.
- Soy meal for high-protein animal feed.
- Textured soy protein as a meat substitute.
- Soy milk, tofu, and soy-based dairy alternatives.
By investing in advanced processing technologies, Pakistan can maximize its GMO soybean potential, adding new revenue streams and reducing reliance on imports.
Conclusion
The approval of GMO soybean imports has revived Pakistan’s feed industry, stabilizing poultry and livestock production while unlocking regional trade opportunities. Experts confirm no health risks associated with GMO soybeans, and export potential remains strong. To sustain this momentum, government oversight and investments in local seed research will be crucial for long-term agricultural growth and food security.
FAQs
1. Are GMO soybeans safe for human and animal consumption?
Yes, GMO soybeans have been safely consumed for decades in developed countries, with no reported health risks for humans or animals.
2. How does GMO soybean benefit Pakistan’s feed industry?
GMO soybean imports have revived feed production, making animal feed more affordable and stabilizing the poultry and livestock sectors.
3. Can Pakistan export GMO soybean by-products?
Yes, Pakistan has export opportunities in Southeast Asia, the Gulf region, and China, particularly for soy meal and oil by-products.
4. What are the main by-products of GMO soybeans?
GMO soybeans yield soybean oil, meal, textured protein, soy milk, tofu, and other soy-based products, supporting multiple industries.
5. What measures should the government take to ensure soybean quality?
The government should enforce strict SOPs, monitor imports, and invest in indigenous seed research to maintain quality standards and reduce import dependence.
