Agri-Food Coalition Urges Swift EU Adoption of New Genomic Technique Regulations

A coalition of 31 European agri-food value chain organizations has issued a joint statement calling for the swift adoption of the New Genomic Techniques (NGT) regulation without further amendments. The group, representing plant breeders, farmers, food processors, and traders, emphasizes that a science-based and predictable regulatory framework is critical for the future of the European agri-food sector. They argue that NGTs are essential tools for developing crops that are more resilient to climate change, pests, and diseases, thereby ensuring long-term food security and sustainability across the continent.

The representatives specifically warn against amendments that would introduce mandatory labeling and traceability requirements for "Category 1" NGTs, crops considered equivalent to those produced through conventional breeding. The coalition asserts that such measures would create unnecessary administrative burdens, increase costs for operators, and erode the scientific integrity of the original proposal. By treating these precision-bred plants like traditional Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), the group believes the EU would hinder the very innovation it aims to promote, ultimately undermining the competitiveness of European agriculture.

As the legislative process continues within the European Parliament and Council, the coalition stresses the urgent need for legal certainty to foster investment and research. They highlight that many countries outside the EU have already implemented enabling regulations for NGTs, leaving European breeders and farmers at a disadvantage compared to global competitors. The statement concludes by urging policymakers to finalize a workable, future-proof framework that allows the entire value chain to harness the benefits of genomic innovation while maintaining high standards of safety and transparency.

For more details, read the Open Letter in Euroseeds News.