EU Council Agrees on New Genomic Techniques Regulation Framework

The Council of the European Union has reached an agreement on the regulatory framework for New Genomic Techniques (NGTs), marking a significant step forward for plant breeding innovation in Europe.

The proposed framework creates two distinct regulatory pathways for plants developed using NGTs. Category 1 covers plants with modifications that "could occur naturally or through conventional breeding methods," which would follow a streamlined regulatory process without GMO labeling requirements. Category 2 encompasses all other NGT plants, which would remain subject to existing GMO legislation.

Plantik's approach to developing climate-resilient crops aligns with Category 1 criteria, as our precision genome editing focuses on changes that could occur in nature. This regulatory clarity supports our mission to accelerate the development of crops that can withstand extreme weather conditions while maintaining yields.

The agreement now moves to trilogue negotiations with the European Parliament and Commission. This science-based approach to regulation has the potential to unlock innovation in European agriculture while maintaining appropriate safety measures, helping to address challenges from climate change to food security.