As reported by Dusita Saokaew in China Global Television Network, the new study could help contribute to global food security
For the past 10 years, scientists at the National Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology have been working on creating a new strain of rice, more resilient to the impacts of climate change, and the natural threats that come as global temperatures rise.
Meechai Siangliw, researcher, National Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology said, "If the rice fields are damaged by environmental conditions like flooding, insects, or bacterial outbreaks, this strain of rice will help rice farmers. It will reduce the risk so that farmers will not lose income."
Charoen Laothamatas president, Thai Rice Exporters Association, commented, "In Thailand, we overlooked the need for development over the years. Our rice has remained the same. If we do not act or find a solution, our competitiveness in the global market will be limited. It needs to be our National Agenda. We need new rice varieties with high yields in order to compete."
As the world's population is expected to reach 10bn in 2052, global agriculture must increase its food supply by 56% in order to feed everyone.
