European Parliament Approves New Genomic Techniques Legislation

The European Parliament has approved new legislation governing the use of New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) in plant breeding, marking a significant development in the European Union's regulatory framework for agricultural biotechnology. The decision has prompted discussion among policymakers, industry stakeholders, researchers, and organic agriculture organizations regarding its potential implications for innovation, transparency, and food systems. 

Approved on 17 June 2026, the legislation introduces a revised regulatory approach for certain plants developed using New Genomic Techniques. Compared with existing rules for genetically modified organisms (GMOs), the new framework exempts some NGT-derived plants from specific regulatory requirements, including certain risk assessment procedures, traceability measures, and product labelling obligations.

Supporters of the legislation argue that New Genomic Techniques have the potential to accelerate crop improvement by developing varieties with desirable characteristics, such as enhanced resilience, improved productivity, or greater resistance to pests and environmental stress. At the same time, the revised framework has generated concerns among several organizations regarding transparency, consumer information, and long-term governance of agricultural innovation. 

One of the key outcomes of the legislative process is the continued exclusion of New Genomic Techniques from certified organic production. Following advocacy by IFOAM Organics Europe and other stakeholders, organic farming standards will continue to prohibit the use of NGT-derived plant material. The legislation also maintains labelling requirements for NGT seeds, providing farmers with information to support planting decisions consistent with organic production standards. 

Organizations representing the organic sector have welcomed these provisions while continuing to advocate for measures that safeguard the integrity of organic agriculture and preserve consumer confidence in organic certification. 

Another topic highlighted during the legislative debate concerns intellectual property rights associated with genetically modified traits. Several stakeholders have expressed concerns that broader patent protection could increase market concentration within the seed industry, potentially affecting access to genetic resources and creating challenges for smaller plant breeders. Others argue that balanced intellectual property frameworks are important for encouraging continued investment in agricultural innovation. 

As discussions continue across Europe, the implementation of the new legislation is expected to shape future approaches to plant breeding, agricultural sustainability, and food production. The evolving regulatory landscape highlights the importance of balancing scientific innovation with transparency, biodiversity, and informed consumer choice. 

Read more: TEA: l’Europa approva le regole per le nuove tecniche genomiche – Ruminantia – Web Magazine del mondo dei Ruminanti

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