Exporters flag concern over GM soya imports

INDIA’S soybean exporters have raised concerns over the government's reported consideration to allow imports of genetically modified (GM) soybean meal from the US, warning that such a move could erode the country's export competitiveness built on its “non-GM” reputation.

- PUSHPITA DEY @NewDelhi

Indian soya products are globally recognised for being produced from non-GM raw matri-als, a distinction that commands a premium in key markets like Europe. Exporters fear that the import of GM soymeal could blur this distinction, undermining India’s credibility as a source of non-GM soya products.

“All Indian soya products are non GM because our basic raw material is non GM. Most soy value added products are made using either the defatted or full fat soybean meal as the raw material. Indian soya based food products are imported mainly for their non GM character,” said DN Pathak, executive director at the soyabean Processors Association of India (SOPA).