Researchers of the Wuhan Qingfa Hesheng Seed Co pose with Pakistani farmers holding a poster for the new canola variety HC-021C. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

A new canola variety HC-021C, which was developed by the Wuhan Qingfa Hesheng Seed Co, was recommended by the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on Twitter, and captured widespread attention.

The company is based in the East Lake High-tech Development Zone (also known as Optics Valley of China, or OVC) and is committed to the cultivation of new seed varieties. By the end of 2022, it has registered more than 10 new seed varieties in rice, oilseed rape and vegetables for overseas market, and has exported seeds worth over $60 million.

As a forerunner among China's seed exporters, the firm also won honorary titles such as a gazelle company, and a sci-tech little giant company, while it always keeps a low profile.

In the very beginning, the firm mainly promoted its hybrid rice to the overseas market. But its business scale continues to expand to seeds of fruit, vegetables and even flowers, thanks to its advanced operational concepts, high-quality research teams, top-notch technical services, and dependable business credibility.

Now its products sell well countries in including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Vietnam, India, Iran, Spain, Australia and Brazil.

Pakistan is a large edible vegetable oil-consuming country, with the annual demand totaling 5 million metric tons, while 89 percent of the oil is imported, which is why the Pakistani government has been prioritizing the independent production of the high-quality canola.

HC-021C is said to have a shorter growth period, show higher disease resistance, contain more oil, and have a higher yield, 5 percent higher than other local varieties per unit.