What do rice farmers think about boosting photosynthesis with biotechnology? A new Scientific Reports study finds strong interest in yield-enhancing innovations, especially in rice-growing regions, while adoption depends on grain quality, market acceptance and local regulation as much as biological performance.
Can Better Photosynthesis Deliver Better Rice? Farmers Share Their Verdict
07 January 2026
A new study published in Scientific Reports explores how rice farmers and agrifood stakeholders view the use of biotechnology to improve photosynthesis, a strategy increasingly promoted to raise rice yields sustainably under climate and resource pressures.
Researchers held focus groups with 62 participants across the United Kingdom, Bangladesh, the Philippines and Spain, examining attitudes toward genetically enabled improvements in photosynthetic efficiency in rice and other staple crops. The discussions revealed that rice farmers are generally open to innovations that could increase productivity, particularly where land, fertiliser and water inputs are limited.
Across rice-growing regions in Asia, participants often framed photosynthesis-enhancing biotechnology in practical terms, focusing on yield stability, resilience and food security rather than the technology itself. Familiarity with existing biotech rice varieties appeared to reduce concern, with many farmers emphasising performance in the field over breeding method.
By contrast, European stakeholders highlighted market acceptance, regulatory hurdles and consumer perception as key considerations for rice adoption, even where agronomic benefits were clear. Farmers noted that photosynthesis improvements would need to complement other priority traits such as disease resistance, grain quality and price competitiveness.
The study concludes that while photosynthesis-boosting biotechnology holds promise for rice production, its success will depend on aligning innovation with farmer priorities, regional contexts and supply-chain realities not scientific potential alone.
What farmers think about using crop biotechnology to boost photosynthesis in rice and potato