Pakistan opens market to Australian GM canola

Australian producers of genetically modified (GM) canola will now have access to a key export market in Pakistan, following ongoing lobbying and market support from the Australian government.

Pakistan is one of Australia’s top canola customers, importing more than $500 million of non-GM canola last financial year. Around 46 per cent of Australia’s canola production is now genetically modified, and all commercially approved GM varieties are now cleared for export to Pakistan.

Minister for Agriculture Julie Collins said the approval will expand opportunities for farmers and regional communities.

“This new market access in Pakistan is another way the Albanese Labor Government is delivering for Australian farmers, producers, and regional communities,” Ms Collins said.

“Expansion to GM canola unlocks new opportunities to export our world-class products.”

The government said the move strengthens the trading partnership between the two nations and forms part of broader efforts to open new markets, protect existing ones, and improve access for Australian food and fibre exports.

Since coming to office, the Albanese Labor Government has achieved 231 market access outcomes, including 29 new markets, protection of 81 existing markets, and more than 100 improvements to trade arrangements.