Recently, the Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Affairs enacted the approval of twelve genetically modified (GM) soybean varieties, marking a strategic pivot in China's quest for food security. This development comes in the context of China’s reliance on international markets for approximately 60% of its soybean consumption. In an effort to mitigate this dependency, the transition to GM technology has been initiated. However, this advancement precipitates concerns regarding the nation's capacity to manage its prevalent water scarcity challenges. Considering the stringency of policy regulations on virtual water trade across inter-regional provinces, the feasibility of achieving agricultural self-sufficiency becomes a pertinent inquiry. This is especially significant in light of the crop’s substantial water requirements, necessitating volumes equivalent to 50% of its weight. How China intends to reconcile these agricultural ambitions with its environmental constraints remains a critical question for policy-makers and stakeholders alike.

For references

https://thediplomat.com/2023/12/why-food-security-is-a-top-priority-for-china/