EU approves gene-edited crops for commercial use
The new regulation treats certain gene-edited plants the same as traditionally bred varieties.
EUROPE – Fruit and vegetable growers in Europe now have the green light to cultivate and sell crops developed through advanced gene-editing techniques, following a historic agreement between the Council of the EU and the European Parliament.
The deal allows varieties created using new genomic techniques, or NGTs, to enter the market under the same rules as conventional breeding. Legislators agreed that plants classified as NGT1, which could also arise naturally or through traditional breeding, will not face most of the strict regulations applied to genetically modified organisms.
Crops categorized as NGT2 will continue to follow existing GMO rules. The legislation will cover crops produced within the EU as well as imports from outside the bloc.
European farming associations Copa and Cogeca welcomed the decision, noting its potential to support farmers grappling with climate pressures and a shrinking selection of crop protection tools. “This agreement marks a turning point for European agriculture. NGTs provide real and tangible tools to tackle the current and future challenges in climate, environment, and food security that the European Union faces,” said Thor Gunnar Kofoed, chair of the groups’ working party on seeds. “It addresses the urgent need for solutions to help farmers adapt to rapidly changing conditions.”
Swedish MEP Jessica Polfjärd added, “This is a historic day. The EU is taking its first step towards giving farmers access to new, Nobel Prize-winning technology. Technology that will allow them to grow crops that can withstand climate change and deliver higher yields on less land.” She continued, “This is crucial for strengthening our food security. Today’s agreement is a breakthrough that boosts not only our farmers’ competitiveness, but also Europe’s position in research and innovation.”
The agreement now moves toward formal adoption as EU law. Industry experts say it will accelerate the development of crop varieties that can better resist heat, drought, and pests.
Recent developments show the EU is also planning to support gene-edited crop research through dedicated funding programs and public-private partnerships. These efforts aim to help farmers transition to more climate-resilient practices while ensuring compliance with food safety and environmental standards.
While some environmental groups continue to call for caution, proponents argue that the legislation provides a balanced framework that safeguards public health without hindering innovation.
Observers predict that this regulatory clarity could attract new investments and encourage collaboration between European breeders, universities, and agri-tech companies.
As Europe adapts to the realities of climate change and population growth, the approval of NGT crops could play a central role in securing food production, offering farmers innovative tools to protect yields and ensure a steady supply of fresh produce for consumers.
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