About Us

Secretary, Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination (MoCC & EC)

Pakistan has been a party to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (CPB) since May 31, 2009, reflecting its commitment to implementing international biosafety standards. To fulfill the obligations under the CPB, the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA), under the Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination, developed the Pakistan Biosafety Rules, 2005 (amended 2024), and the National Biosafety Guidelines, 2005 (amended 2024) to regulate Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in the country.
The Pakistan Biosafety Clearing House (Pak-BCH) is serving as a National platform for implementing the Cartagena Protocol under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The Pak-BCH aims to regulate GMO-related activities, including import, export, production, storage, handling, sale, and release, while ensuring risk management.
The Pak-BCH is dedicated to fostering innovation and sustainable development in biotechnology while maintaining stringent biosafety standards to protect the environment and public health.
Ms. Aisha Humera Ch.
Secretary of MOCC & EC
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DG Pak-EPA

Director General, Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency

Biotechnology holds immense potential to revolutionize agriculture, industry, and environmental management, presenting transformative opportunities for sustainable development. However, its advancement also brings inherent risks, requiring diligent management to ensure biosafety.
The National Biosafety Guidelines, 2005 (amended 2024), and Pakistan Biosafety Rules, 2005 (amended 2024), highlight Pakistan's commitment to advancing biotechnology in a manner that is both innovative and responsible. These regulations provide a robust framework for the safe handling of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and related products. From laboratory research and field trials to the commercialization and import of GM soybean for food, feed, or processing (FFP), these guidelines ensure that every step is conducted with the utmost care for the environment, public health, and future generations.
These guidelines serve as an essential resource for scientists, industry leaders, policymakers, and all stakeholders involved in biotechnology. They outline critical protocols and best practices that emphasize safety, sustainability, and ethical innovation, ensuring that progress aligns with the needs of our communities and ecosystems.
I urge all stakeholders to fully adopt and implement these regulations as we collectively work toward fostering national sustainability and innovation. By adhering to these guidelines, we can ensure that our advancements in biotechnology are not only groundbreaking but also safe, ethical, and environmentally sound, securing a legacy of responsible innovation for generations to come.
Ms. Nazia Zeb Ali
Director General (Pak-EPA)

Mission of Pak-EPA

The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) is committed to safeguarding the environment through effective regulation, enforcement, and advocacy. As the national authority on environmental protection, Pak-EPA promotes sustainable development by ensuring compliance with environmental laws, addressing pollution, and conserving natural resources. Through collaboration, research, and public awareness, we strive to create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for Pakistan.
DG Pak-EPA
DG Pak-EPA

Mission of Pak-BCH

The Biosafety Clearing House (BCH) is an information exchange platform established under the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. It ensures transparency in the regulation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and supports the implementation of safe biotechnology practices. By serving as a reliable platform for accessible and up-to-date data, the BCH empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions, fostering sustainable development while safeguarding biodiversity and human health. Through its commitment to promoting global collaboration and compliance with international biosafety standards, the BCH contributes to a balanced approach toward scientific innovation and environmental protection.