European Commission proposes to loosen gene modification regulation

The European Commission proposed revising its rules on genetically modified organisms today to loosen some restrictions for plants resulting from newer gene-editing technology. The need for this revision emerged after a review conducted in 2021, which concluded that the existing GMO legislation was inadequate for the purpose. In response to these findings, the Commission has proposed the categorization of new genomic technique (NGT) plants into two distinct groups.

According to the proposal, the first category would include NGT plants that could be created by conventional breeding. These plants would still require notification but would otherwise be treated similarly to their conventional counterparts.

The second category would consist of NGT plants with more complex modifications. These plants would be subject to more rigorous requirements in line with the EU's genetically modified organisms directive. Plants falling into this category would benefit from a faster approval process if they exhibit characteristics such as increased climate change tolerance or reduced water and fertiliser requirements.

It is important to note that the proposed revision requires the approval of both the European Parliament and EU governments and may undergo further modifications. Furthermore, it is essential to highlight that the overall legal framework governing transgenic technology, namely the EU's 1999 GMO Directive, remains unchanged despite this new proposal.