The European Parliament has given final approval to the landmark New Genomic Techniques (NGT) Regulation. This significant legislative move establishes a two-tiered regulatory system for plants developed through these advanced breeding methods within the EU.
Under the newly adopted regulation, NGT-1 plants, considered equivalent to conventionally bred crops, will benefit from a simplified approval pathway. In contrast, NGT-2 plants will remain subject to the existing, stricter regulations for genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
This regulatory distinction is strategically important for agricultural innovation within the European Union. It aims to streamline the development and market entry of certain NGT crops, potentially fostering advancements in sustainable agriculture and food security.
The newly passed regulation is set to be implemented two years following its official publication. This timeline provides a phase-in period for member states and industry stakeholders to adapt to the new framework for genomic techniques in agriculture.