Groups call for a forward-looking approach on NGTs
Brussels, Belgium (March 14, 2025) - Euroseeds welcomes the outcome of the Coreper meeting, which marks an important step for the future of European plant breeding innovation.
According to Euroseeds, the Council has finally decided to enter trilogue negotiations with the EU Parliament and Commission on the New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) proposal and with this pave the way for further progress on this legislative framework.
“Reaching a balanced Council position on NGTs is a significant step forward. It is now essential that the Co-legislators ensure a regulatory framework that is innovation friendly and workable for all companies in the seed and agri-food sector,” said Garlich von Essen, Secretary General of Euroseeds. “This means treating conventional-like NGT plants and products similar to conventional breeding without discriminatory labelling or traceability requirements.”
The International Seed Federation (ISF) joins Euroseeds in welcoming the Coreper outcome, which is a major step forward in clarifying policy for New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) in Europe.
"ISF echoes the European industry voices in welcoming a major step forward in the process of clarifying policy for New Genomic Techniques (NGTs)," ISF Secretary GeneralMichael Keller states. "Adopting a global perspective is vital to ensure a workable, science-based outcome that aligns with progress already achieved in 27 countries worldwide. Policymakers must establish a clear, future-proof regulatory framework that supports all players in the seed and agri-food sectors. This will ensure farmers' continued access to high-quality improved seed, drive innovation, and foster sustainability in agriculture."