Genetically modified maize successfully tested

The experimental growing of genetically modified (GM) maize in the Central Highland province of Dak Lak has showed good results with higher yield, quality and anti-pest capacity than normal maize grown in the same conditions.

The information was released at a seminar on improving public awareness of GM maize jointly held by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Central Highland Agro-Forestry Science & Technology Institute (CASTI) and the Dekalb Vietnam Co., Ltd in Buon Ma Thuot City on August 16.

Maize was the first GM crop experimentally grown in Vietnam which may produce up to 10 tonnes per ha, doubling the yield of other maize varieties, with low input costs, according to CASTI Director Le Ngoc Bau.

At present, maize is the second most popular crop in Dak Lak province, after coffee, with a total area of 140,000 ha. However, maize productivity only reaches 4-5 tonnes per ha due to natural disasters and diseases.

Bau said that the growing of GM maize will help farmers reduce production costs and gradually improve their living standards. – VNA

Tags: genetically modified food

Posted by VBN on Aug 18 2011. Filed under Agriculture. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry