Study Highlights Impact of GE Crops in Global Agri Output

In the absence of genetically engineered crops, the world would have needed 3.4 percent more cropland to achieve the global agricultural output in 2019. This finding is according to study published in the American Economic Review: Insights.

Experts from the University of Copenhagen conducted a study to estimate the impact of genetically engineered crops on yields per country, harvested area, and trade. They used a statistical method called triple-differences rollout design that compares the yields, harvested area, and trade of countries that adopted GE crops at different times with those of countries that did not adopt GE crops. The findings indicate significant increases in yields, particularly in developing countries. Without GE crops, additional 3.4 percent of cropland would have been necessary to attain 2019 global yields.

The study also found that GE crop planting bans had an impact on global gain from GE adoption, achieving only one-third of the estimated potential of the gains from existing GE crops. Thus, lifting GM crops bans could reap benefits, especially in developing countries. Without such restrictions, there could have been 13% more cotton, 28% more maize, 26% more rapeseed, and 4% more soybean worldwide in 2019.

Download the full text article (with payment) in American Economic Review: Insights or read the summary from the Genetic Literacy Project.