On December 16, 2025, the European Commission proposed amending Directive 2001/18 to facilitate the marketing of genetically modified microorganisms. This initiative aims to reduce regulatory requirements, particularly regarding traceability and environmental monitoring, and is part of a broader context of deregulation of GMOs, following plants and in anticipation of potential deregulation of animals in 2026. Inf’OGM is preparing to analyze the implications of this controversial proposal.
Source: Info Ogm, published under the title "La déréglementation des micro-organismes OGM est en cours" - 20 January 2026
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AHyTEC and KIIO, two startup projects from the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), have just joined the Startup Launchpad with a prize of 30,000 francs each, confirming the potential of their solutions for the industry, applicable to agriculture. One transforms waste heat into electricity, while the other revolutionizes process monitoring to anticipate failures and improve reliability.
Source: Epfl, published under the title "AHyTEC and KIIO selected for Ignition grants to transform in..." - 20 January 2026
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Fribourg's agro-food strategy, launched in 2021, reviews its progress one year ahead of elections. With a financial support of 4.8 million CHF for 27 projects, the canton focuses on biomass valorization, the implementation of digital technologies, and citizen engagement for sustainable food. Innovations such as an electric weeding robot and a project converting cheese waste into hydrogen illustrate Fribourg's ambitions to become a hub in the agro-food sector.
Source: Agir Info, published under the title "Fribourg vu comme pôle d’attraction agroalimentaire" - 18 January 2026
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The Technical Interprofessional Centre for Fruits and Vegetables is testing pineapple cultivation in southern France, aiming to adapt to new climatic conditions. While agronomic feasibility appears promising, economic viability and challenges related to lighting and plant acclimatization remain to be assessed. This project could offer a new avenue for diversifying crops and enhancing food self-sufficiency in the mainland.
Publié par Pleinchamp, Source: Pleinchamp, published under the title "Et si l’ananas s’implantait dans le Sud de la France ?" - 17 January 2026
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On December 19, 2025, the Council of the European Union adopted a provisional text supporting the patentability of GMOs derived from new genetic techniques (NGTs), despite opposition from the European Parliament in 2024. This text, which disregards the concerns of farmers and small seed companies, is set for validation in 2026, with no possibility for amendments. This decision raises questions about the impact of patents on innovation and the adoption of GMOs in Europe.
Source: Info Ogm, published under the title "Le Conseil de l’UE soutient la brevetabilité des OGM/NTG" - 15 January 2026
Read moreThe implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) by the European Commission is causing paralysis in the fertilizer market across Europe. Industry players are facing increasing uncertainty, exacerbated by proposals for retroactive policy changes. Fertilizer producers, already grappling with decarbonization challenges, struggle to adjust their prices, threatening the economic stability of farmers and the competitiveness of the sector.
Source: Agropages, published under the title "EU - CBAM emergency brake throws fertilizer market into para..." - 15 January 2026
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On December 16, 2025, the European Commission presented a set of measures aimed at "increasing the competitiveness of the agri-food industry and farmers." Among these are provisions favorable to the deployment of biocontrol. The IBMA, the international biocontrol association, welcomed the proposal.
Source: La France Agricole, published under the title "Une proposition européenne favorable au déploiement du bioco..." - 18 December 2025
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As Brazil grows impatient and the European Council convenes in Brussels, European institutions have bolstered protective measures for the EU-Mercosur agreement, aiming to safeguard European agriculture against massive imports. This agreement, sealed on December 17, could mark a turning point for innovation in agritech, promoting sustainable practices and fair competition amid rising climate challenges. Technological advancements in plant biotechnology and crop management may thus become essential to counter economic impacts.
Source: La France Agricole, published under the title "Mercosur : un petit pas pour améliorer les mesures de sauveg..." - 18 December 2025
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FRANCE. Groups of farmers are innovating for sustainable agriculture. From circular economy to local jobs, entrepreneurial initiatives like GIEE and cooperatives strengthen community ties to address territorial challenges. Exclusive interview with Sandrine Jean, management expert.
Publié par Le réseau CERFRANCE, Source: Pleinchamp, published under the title "L’entrepreneuriat collectif, moteur d’activité durable" - 18 December 2025
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The Commission has unveiled its report on productivity growth hindered by climate change and input costs. It proposes a simplified and more targeted Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for the post-2027 period to address ongoing challenges.
Source: European Commission Common Agricultural Policy, published under the title "EU Agricultural Outlook 2025-35: EU agriculture navigates ch..." - 18 December 2025
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