CHINESE CONSUMERS GENERALLY POSITIVE TO GM FOODS
September 19, 2003
Crop Biotech Update
Majority of consumers surveyed in Beijing, China had little or no knowledge
of biotechnology but their attitude toward genetically modified (GM) foods
was generally positive. This was the major finding of a survey conducted by
Quan Li and colleagues from the Washington State University.
Respondents were positive toward GM foods like GM rice and GM soybean oil
with product-enhancing attributes. A positive opinion toward biotechnology
significantly increased consumers� willingness to pay for both GM products,
while for GM soybean, higher levels of consumers� self reported knowledge
also increased their willingness to pay.
The researchers conclude that the marketing outlook for GM foods in China is
optimistic. Since younger people are more willing to buy GM food products
with certain attributes, the Chinese market is perceived to be even more
open to GM foods in the future.
The full paper is available online at
http://www.agbiofoum.org/v5n4/v5n4a03-wahl.htm.