European agriculture is facing unprecedented challenges. In this context, New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) represent one of the most promising innovations for European agriculture. Their ability to develop more resistant, productive varieties adapted to future climate conditions can make a decisive contribution to ensuring food security, reducing the use of inputs and strengthening the competitiveness of the agri-food sector.
For this reason, the upcoming vote on the European Regulation on plants obtained through certain New Genomic Techniques represents a key moment for the future of agricultural innovation in Europe.
On 1 June, more than thirty representative organisations from across the European agri-food chain publicly called on the European Parliament to approve the text agreed in the December 2025 trilogues, without introducing new amendments. The message is clear: Europe urgently needs a modern and functional legal framework for NGTs.
Tools to respond to today’s agricultural challenges
NGTs make it possible to obtain varieties capable of responding more rapidly to challenges such as drought, new pests and diseases, the reduction of phytosanitary products, improved efficiency in the use of water and nutrients, adaptation to new climate conditions and the development of traits of interest to consumers and the food industry.
In other words, NGTs make it possible to develop the solutions that European farmers need today, not in twenty years’ time.
While the European Union continues to debate its regulatory framework, a growing number of countries are already using and regulating these technologies in a pragmatic way.
The United States, Canada, Argentina, Brazil, Japan, Australia and numerous Latin American countries have established systems that allow certain applications of gene editing to be used without automatically subjecting them to traditional GMO regulation.
Europe risks falling behind
The letter sent to the European Parliament itself warns of the need for the European Union to align with the regulatory practices already being applied by a growing number of third countries. This, it argues, is essential to avoid competitive disadvantages and ensure the smooth flow of international trade.
If Europe fails to act, there is a real risk that research, investment and the development of new varieties will move to other regions of the world.
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Plant breeding has historically been one of the main drivers of agricultural productivity. Thanks to it, farmers today have access to more productive, resistant varieties that are better adapted to their needs.
A strategic opportunity for Europe
For this reason, ANOVE —the Spanish National Association of Plant Breeders— considers that the approval of the text agreed in the trilogues represents a strategic opportunity for Europe.
It is a balanced compromise, the result of years of debate and negotiation, which provides legal certainty, transparency and practical viability for the entire agri-food chain.
The decision that the European Parliament adopts in the coming days will not only determine the regulatory future of NGTs. It will also send a signal about Europe’s ability to embrace innovation, sustainability and the competitiveness of its agriculture in an increasingly demanding global context.
