EU member states reach agreement on genomic techniques in plant breeding

On March 15, 2025, EU member states reached a consensus on regulations regarding new genomic techniques (NGT) in plant breeding following a negotiation led by the Polish presidency. The agreement represents a significant shift in the policies governing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) within the EU, aiming to exempt certain plants developed through NGT methods from the stringent GMO regulations they have previously faced. This decision came after negotiations that lasted over a year and a half, overseeing discussions from previous presidencies including Spanish, Belgian, and Hungarian. The new regulations classify NGT products into two categories: NGT1 and NGT2. NGT1 plants undergo minor modifications that could also occur through traditional breeding methods, while NGT2 plants involve more than 20 modifications, making replication through natural processes complex. The first category will not be subjected to GMO regulations, enabling easier market access for these plants, while the second will still require compliance with existing GMO restrictions, including risk assessments and marketing approvals. This regulatory framework is designed to promote agricultural innovation and enhance crop resilience against climate change challenges such as droughts and floods. It also aims to reduce dependency on pesticides and artificial fertilizers, thereby benefiting both farmers and the environment. As part of this legislative package, EU member states will also be negotiating the specifics of patenting and labeling NGT products in collaboration with the European Parliament, which may face complexities given that the number of new genomic technologies is limited, and various stakeholders hold patents on them. The discussion surrounding NGT has revealed divisions among EU member states. The UK is viewed as a leader in adopting NGT for agricultural advancement, while several EU countries demonstrate varying levels of enthusiasm. Some countries, known as 'hawk states', advocate for embracing NGT methods, including permitting their use in organic farming. In contrast, countries like Germany and Austria express skepticism, partly due to their political landscapes. Germany's concerns are intensified by the fact that its agriculture ministry is currently led by the Greens, who oppose the NGT approach. Meanwhile, there's a noticeable lack of dialogue on NGT among Polish policymakers, highlighting differing national priorities on agricultural technology. As these negotiations proceed, prominent agricultural organizations within Europe have voiced support for the legislative efforts, underscoring their significance for food security and innovation in the agricultural sector.