Ma Qingbin: Do not rush to allow GM foods to enter the market

According to the Voice of Economy, “Tianxia Finance,” Chen Xiwen, deputy head of the Central Rural Work Leading Group and director of the office, recently emphasized that if genetically modified (GM) crops are to be sold in the market and reach consumers, they must undergo an extremely rigorous review process. Only when it is guaranteed that no harmful side effects will occur can these products be approved for commercial sale. Otherwise, no individual or entity should have the authority to decide their release into the market. This raises important questions: How should such a policy be interpreted? And how should the government regulate existing GM foods? To explore these issues, Tianxia Finance’s reporter Wang Xia conducted an interview with Ma Qingbin, an expert at the China International Economic Exchange Center. Reporter: Hello, Teacher Ma. First, I’d like to ask you: What do you think are the main reasons behind the ongoing debate over genetic modification? Ma Qingbin: The core of the controversy still revolves around safety. To truly understand this, we need to look at it from two perspectives. The first is the biological safety that the general public is concerned about—whether consuming GM food could cause harm to the human body. From various studies, there may be some risks that aren’t immediately apparent. In fact, some effects might only emerge over generations, making them more difficult to detect. The second aspect involves seed-related concerns, which tie into broader food security issues. If seed breeding involves genetic modification, and if we lose control over these seeds, it could lead to long-term problems in food sustainability and safety. Ultimately, this becomes a fundamental issue affecting national food security. Reporter: In your view, how should the government strengthen its oversight of genetically modified foods? Ma Qingbin: I believe the government should start by establishing a solid legal framework. Before any GM product is allowed to enter the market, it should be thoroughly tested in controlled laboratory settings. It shouldn’t be rushed into field trials or directly onto our plates without sufficient scientific evidence. The risks involved aren’t just about whether we choose to cultivate GM crops domestically, but also about the potential entry of foreign GM seeds into our country. This is a multi-generational concern. To address public worries, I think the government should set up a specialized agency that coordinates across different departments—such as the Ministry of Agriculture, science and technology, customs, and even security agencies. A cross-departmental approach would help ensure that all potential risks of GM products are fully evaluated through rigorous scientific research and long-term trials. At present, China may not face immediate threats, but this is a long-term, strategic issue that requires careful consideration before rushing GM foods into the market.

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