EU Moves Toward Allowing New Genomic Crops Amid Divided Lawmakers and Industry Support

European lawmakers reached a provisional agreement in Brussels this week that could open the door to the cultivation of plants developed with new genomic techniques (NGTs) across the European Union. The deal was struck during a late-night trilogue session between representatives of the European Parliament, the Council, and the European Commission from December 3 to 4.

Pascal Canfin, a centrist Member of the European Parliament from the Renew Europe group, announced the outcome in a video posted on social media. He described the agreement as favorable for farmers, explaining that it would allow new seeds produced through NGTs to be used in European agriculture. According to Canfin, these techniques accelerate natural selection within plant species, enabling breeders to develop varieties more quickly than traditional methods allow. He argued that this could help secure farmers’ incomes and provide better protection against climate-related risks.

The agreement includes restrictions on NGT plants with traits for herbicide resistance or insecticidal properties. Canfin emphasized that this distinction means Europe will not be adopting the genetically modified organism (GMO) model currently used in countries like Brazil and the United States.

However, not all lawmakers are convinced by the new rules. Christophe Clergeau, a Socialist MEP, has voiced concerns that NGTs represent a new form of GMOs. In a video released during negotiations last month, he called for additional safeguards before such plants are placed on the market. Clergeau also raised issues about patents, warning that global agrochemical companies could monopolize genetic resources and drive up seed prices for farmers. He stressed the need to protect farmers’ freedom and ensure continued access to genetic resources for innovation, while preventing the privatization of plant varieties.

The debate over NGTs has drawn attention from agricultural organizations as well. A coalition of 30 groups representing farming and food interests welcomed the agreement in a statement issued on December 4. They argue that adopting NGTs is essential for maintaining Europe’s competitiveness, especially since countries like the United States, China, and Japan already allow commercial use of such products.

Despite this progress, the agreement is not yet final. It must still be approved by EU member states and by a vote in the European Parliament. If adopted, the new rules would not take effect until 2028.

The discussion around NGTs reflects broader questions about innovation, food security, and environmental protection in Europe’s agricultural sector. Supporters see these technologies as tools to help farmers adapt to climate change and global competition. Critics worry about corporate control over seeds and potential risks to biodiversity.

As negotiations continue, both sides are watching closely to see how Europe will balance innovation with precaution in its approach to agricultural biotechnology.