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China to gauge public acceptance of GMO’s

The Chinese government plans to conduct a poll testing the public’s acceptance of genetically modified food.

China is the fourth-largest grower of GMO cotton and top importer of soybeans, most of which are genetically modified.

Bloomberg reports a prestigious university in Beijing will carry out the survey, following public skepticism and concern that GMO foods may adversely affect human health.

Government officials in China say biotechnology would boost yields and sustainability in a country that’s seen consumption soar.

Syngenta AG could play a prominent role in bringing Bt corn to Chinese consumers after shareholders agreed to a $43 billion offer from China National Chemical Corporation.

In a statement, Syngenta North America communications director Paul Minehart says it’s important that people around the world have a better understanding of agricultural methods, as well as technologies designed to improve crop productivity, yield, and farmer income in a sustainable way.

ChemChina is expected to close the deal with Syngenta later this month.