The EU is putting new regulations in place for gene-edited crops.
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The European Council has adopted new rules on new genomic techniques (NGTs) which include gene-edited crops.
Once adopted by the European Parliament, there will be a 24-month transition period and the framework will apply from mid-2028. The regulation distinguishes between two categories of NGT plants – those considered equivalent to conventional varieties which do not need to be labelled differently and those that have more complex genetic modifications which will remain subject to existing GMO legislation and labelling.
A statement from the European Council said: “The regulation is designed to enhance food security, reduce external dependencies and ensure a level playing field for European operators, while maintaining high standards for human and animal health and environmental protection.”
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Practical solutions
Minister of agriculture for Cyprus, which holds the EU presidency at present, Maria Panayiotou said: “Our farmers need practical solutions to adapt to climate change and remain competitive. These new rules give them access to innovation while ensuring clarity, fairness and high standards across the EU."
Euroseeds, which represents the seed industry in Europe, said it was a “milestone for plant breeding innovation in and for Europe” and said “we are nearing the finish line of a long race
for more technology openness, competitiveness and productivity in European agriculture”.
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The European Council has adopted new rules on new genomic techniques (NGTs) which include gene-edited crops.
Once adopted by the European Parliament, there will be a 24-month transition period and the framework will apply from mid-2028. The regulation distinguishes between two categories of NGT plants – those considered equivalent to conventional varieties which do not need to be labelled differently and those that have more complex genetic modifications which will remain subject to existing GMO legislation and labelling.
A statement from the European Council said: “The regulation is designed to enhance food security, reduce external dependencies and ensure a level playing field for European operators, while maintaining high standards for human and animal health and environmental protection.”
Practical solutions
Minister of agriculture for Cyprus, which holds the EU presidency at present, Maria Panayiotou said: “Our farmers need practical solutions to adapt to climate change and remain competitive. These new rules give them access to innovation while ensuring clarity, fairness and high standards across the EU."
Euroseeds, which represents the seed industry in Europe, said it was a “milestone for plant breeding innovation in and for Europe” and said “we are nearing the finish line of a long race
for more technology openness, competitiveness and productivity in European agriculture”.
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