What farmers think about using crop biotechnology to boost photosynthesis in rice and potato

Boosting photosynthesis through crop biotechnology has been proposed as a promising strategy to increase agricultural productivity and sustainability under climate change. This study explores farmer and agrifood stakeholder perspectives on this emerging breeding objective in rice and potato. Using focus group discussions with 62 participants across four countries—United Kingdom, Spain, Philippines, and Bangladesh—the research reveals broad support for the potential benefits of enhanced photosynthesis, particularly improved resource-use efficiency and sustainability. However, farmers emphasized the need for new varieties to meet existing agronomic, market, and regulatory requirements. Perceptions of biotechnology varied markedly across regions, with lower levels of concern in low- and middle-income countries where biotechnology crops are already familiar, and greater apprehension in Europe linked to consumer acceptance and regulation. The findings highlight the importance of integrating responsible research and innovation principles into genetic innovation to ensure socially robust and scalable impacts.