China considers regulating international cooperation in seed industries

 China is considering regulating seed industries involved in business with foreign seed enterprises to safeguard its sovereignty over seed resources.

The draft amendment to the Seed Law was heard Monday by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, the top legislature, which is in session from Monday to Friday.

In a bid to show the country's sovereignty over seed resources and prevent leaks, seed research and use involving foreign individuals, enterprises and other institutions are subject to approvals by the authority, the draft amendment said.

The draft amendment added that the State will establish a security check system for seed security to regulate activities involving investment, mergers, and technological cooperation with Chinese seed enterprises.

In addition, the draft amendment called for strengthened tracing and supervision of genetically modified plant seeds and publicizing related information in a timely manner.

Enterprises that produce seeds of genetically modified plants should be licensed by agricultural and forestry departments of the State Council, the draft amendment said.