Rice exporters seek Goyal’s help after China suspends licences over GMO claims

The Rice Exporters Association of Chhattisgarh (TREACG) has urged Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to intervene with Chinese authorities after China suspended registrations of seven Indian rice exporters over alleged traces of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in consignments. In March, China rejected three rice shipments and later suspended the exporters' licences, subsequently adding four more companies to the list.

TREACG stated that the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) have confirmed that commercial cultivation of GM rice is not permitted in India. The association noted that the consignments underwent prescribed non-GMO testing and certification before shipment from India.

The exporters' body has proposed a joint scientific and technical review by competent authorities of both countries to address differences in test results. TREACG president Mukesh Jain said an early resolution is critical for maintaining confidence in India-China rice trade and protecting exporters, especially MSMEs, from financial difficulties.