Its development follows hot on the heels of announcements that China is on the verge of introducing genetically-engineered rice on a large scale.

"The high-yield, high-quality 'super maize' will be of great significance in boosting China's food grain production, which is regarded as another major breakthrough in the agro-scientific research following the development of 'super rice'," Xinhua said.

Experts forecast that China could produce an extra six billion kilograms of maize annually once the new strain is introduced.

Shrinking acreage, falling water tables and a population that is expected to grow significantly beyond 1.3 billion are factors that have led China to explore other ways to feed its people.

02 March 2005