Regulations: AI-assisted international press reviewPress review

NTG Reform: KWS, Bayer, Syngenta, and Cibus See a Turning Point for European Variety Innovation

The European Union's approval of the regulation on New Genomic Techniques (NGT) marks a turning point for innovation in plant breeding. Companies like KWS and Cibus express their satisfaction, emphasizing that this framework will enable the development of more resilient and sustainable crops while facilitating the adoption of modern methods by farmers.

European Parliament Adopts GMO Directive for New Genomic Techniques

On June 17, the European Parliament approved the revision of the 2001 GMO directive, allowing the use of new genomic techniques (NGTs) in agriculture. This decision, welcomed by rapporteur Jessica Polfjärd, aims to enhance the resilience and competitiveness of farms. Unlike traditional GMOs, NGTs rely on targeted mutagenesis, introducing traits already present in the species.

NGT: European and American Seed Companies Welcome End of Regulatory Uncertainty

The recent adoption of the regulation on new genomic techniques (NGT) by the European Parliament marks the end of nearly a decade of legal uncertainty. Euroseeds and ASTA welcome this advancement, highlighting its potential to enhance the competitiveness and productivity of European agriculture and paving the way for increased collaboration between the EU and the United States.

Biotechnology: Brussels Aims to Ease Transition from Lab to Market

The EU Council has adopted a mandate for amendments to health legislation aimed at modernizing rules regarding genetically modified microorganisms and organ treatment. This initiative is part of the European biotechnology directive, which seeks to enhance Europe's biotechnological potential by facilitating innovation while ensuring safety and transparency standards.

The EU Modernizes Seed Regulations to Enhance Biodiversity and Variety Innovation

The European Council and Parliament have reached a provisional agreement on a major reform of the rules governing the production and marketing of plant reproductive material (PRM). This initiative aims to modernize an outdated legislative framework, enhance biodiversity, and ensure the quality of PRM, while facilitating innovation and reducing bureaucracy for operators.

EU Fails to Reach Compromise on Pesticide Regulation Reform

Negotiations for a compromise on new pesticide rules in the EU, proposed by Cyprus, have stalled. This text aimed to facilitate the use of organic pesticides while granting unlimited approvals for certain synthetic substances. Disagreements among member states, particularly regarding the restriction of imports of products containing banned pesticide residues, hindered the agreement.

China: Supreme Court Strengthens Legal Protection for New Plant Varieties to Secure Seed Innovation

The Supreme Court of China has issued a directive aimed at regulating technical investigations in disputes concerning new plant varieties. This document seeks to enhance the protection of intellectual property rights in the seed industry, improve the management of counterfeiting cases, and ensure a legal environment conducive to innovation. It proposes a systematic framework clarifying the roles of judges and experts.

A French Company Secures Emergency Authorization in Italy for Its Biofungicide Against Basil Downy Mildew

Amoéba, a French company specializing in natural microbiological solutions, has received a 120-day emergency authorization for its biofungicide AXPERA in Italy, aimed at combating basil downy mildew that can destroy up to 80% of crops. This measure addresses the growing pressure on basil producers, a key market in Europe, where conventional solutions are increasingly limited and inadequate.

European Commission Adopts New Regulation on Plant Protection Product Labeling

Regulation (EU) 2026/1123, adopted by the European Commission, introduces modernized labeling requirements for plant protection products, emphasizing transparency and sustainability. Starting in 2028, digital labeling will be mandatory, facilitating access to up-to-date information. This regulation also strengthens alignment with CLP (classification, labeling, and packaging) regulations, introduces new environmental and safety requirements, and notably supports precision agriculture practices.

Agrochemistry: 11.4 Years and $307M to Develop an Innovation, Regulatory Pressure at the Core of Industry Challenges