The Russian government has entered into a deal with the oil company Rosneft aimed at accelerating the country’s $1.6 billion federal program to create 30 new varieties of genetically modified (GM) crops and animals by 2027. Through the agreement, both entities are expected to create a genetic technology and gene-editing research centre and to work together to stimulate genetic research in efforts to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign technology. Additionally, Rosneft is to establish an advisory body on genetic technology development.