EU wants to ease rules on genetically modified plants

On 5 July, the European Union unveiled a proposal for new regulations of new genomic techniques (NGTs) in plant breeding. These techniques offer highly precise and efficient methods for developing plant varieties that exhibit resilience to climate extremes, reduced reliance on fertilizers and pesticides, and higher yields.

The European Union aims to bridge the gap between scientific progress and regulatory frameworks by establishing adapted regulations specifically designed for safe NGT* plants. The proposed framework will benefit farmers, consumers, and the environment.

Three main objectives

Firstly, the proposal emphasizes a high level of health and environmental protection, applying only to NGT plants that are as safe as conventionally-bred plants. NGT plants failing to meet safety standards will be subject to existing GMO regulations.
Secondly, the proposal seeks to foster sustainability in various plant species, particularly within the agri-food system.
Lastly, it aims to create an environment that encourages research and innovation, including support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Key elements

Key elements of the proposed regulations include two categories for NGT plants. 

Category 1 includes plants resembling naturally occurring variations, requiring only notification and central registration.
Category 2 covers plants with more complex modifications, subject to comprehensive assessments under existing GMO regulations. 

The proposal also incentivizes sustainable plant development, promotes transparency through the labeling of NGT seeds, and emphasizes robust monitoring of the economic, environmental, and social impacts of NGT products.

Stakeholders will benefit from the adoption of NGTs

Farmers will gain access to a broader selection of plant varieties, leading to reduced costs and improved environmental performance. Consumers will enjoy a wider range of safe products with enhanced nutrition and reduced exposure to pesticides. Researchers, plant breeders, and SMEs will benefit from increased legal clarity and tools to expedite breeding. The entire food system will witness climate resilience, resource conservation, reduced emissions, decreased food waste, and enhanced food security.

The European Union remains committed to fostering innovation, ensuring safety, and spearheading sustainability in plant breeding. By implementing appropriate regulations, we can collectively build a brighter and more resilient future for our food system.

View the factsheet

Food.ec.europa.eu

*NGTs are advanced techniques that expedite plant breeding with unparalleled precision compared to traditional methods. These techniques can generate a wide range of plant products, from minor alterations to more complex modifications.