South Africa Approves Field Trials for GM Canola

The GMO Executive Council has authorised permits to test a new genetically modified canola event.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Biotech

Isometric editorial illustration of a single canola plant inside a wire-mesh enclosure, symbolizing agricultural research and biosafety containment. — The GMO Executive Council in South Africa has approved Corteva Agriscience to conduct field trials for the genetically modified canola event DP73496. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should regulators prioritize agricultural innovation by allowing field trials for genetically modified crops?

South Africa's GMO Executive Council has granted field trial permits for Corteva Agriscience's genetically modified canola event DP73496. This approval initiates a research phase focused on evaluating the crop's performance and safety.

Why it matters

The trials aim to assess agronomic performance, weed control efficacy, and biosafety risks associated with the glyphosate-tolerant variety. However, the African Centre for Biodiversity has voiced formal opposition to the decision, citing concerns over chemical reliance and genetic outcrossing.

The GM canola event, identified as DP73496, is engineered specifically for glyphosate tolerance. Regulatory requirements mandate testing across 3 growing seasons before commercialisation can even be considered.

The players

GMO Executive Council

This is the primary regulatory body responsible for overseeing the safety and approval of genetically modified organisms in South Africa.

Corteva Agriscience

This global agricultural chemical and seed company focuses on developing innovative crop solutions and biotechnology for farmers.

African Centre for Biodiversity

This organisation researches and advocates on issues related to food sovereignty and the impacts of industrial agricultural practices.

The details

The GMO Act mandates that trial crops must be strictly contained or destroyed following the collection of research data to prevent distribution. These trials serve as a necessary precursor under national law for evaluating potential commercial planting.

The GMO Executive Council approved the field trial permits in October 2026.

The Tech Race

These trials represent a key step in the agricultural biotechnology sector as companies work to replace or enhance legacy crop varieties with trait-specific modifications. The approval process aligns with the rigorous standardisation required by the Genetically Modified Organisms Act of 1997.

The current research phase has no immediate impact on market availability or consumer grocery prices, as the trial crops are prohibited from distribution. Residents should note that these experiments are strictly confined to research sites to ensure compliance with biosafety protocols.

The takeaway

These trials illustrate the ongoing tension between agricultural innovation and environmental advocacy regarding GMO regulation. Stakeholders should monitor subsequent reports from these multi-season trials to understand the future viability of glyphosate-tolerant crops in the region.