AI-assisted international press reviewPress review

Australia Approves Cultivation of Genetically Modified Purple Tomato

The Australian Office of Gene Technology Regulator has issued a license for the genetically modified tomato that produces natural purple pigments. This tomato, which can be grown across Australia, has been deemed safe for health and the environment. However, its commercialization as food requires additional approval, and it will be subject to mandatory labeling as a GM product.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "Australia approves commercial release of GM purple tomato" - 12 February 2026

New EU Organic Regulation Guidelines for Non-EU Operators

A new guide on the production, preparation, and export of organic plant products to the European Union provides a comprehensive and simplified summary of the legal requirements for operators and groups of operators in non-EU countries. This document, developed in collaboration with the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FIBL), aims to facilitate understanding of the new rules and certification requirements, focusing on organic products to reduce complexity.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "New guidance on EU Organic Regulation for non-EU operators a..." - 9 February 2026

Global Acceptance of Crops from Genome Editing (GE) Advances

The growing acceptance of crops from genome editing (GE) reflects a shift in perceptions among regulators and the public. While countries like Canada and the United States adopt more flexible regulatory frameworks for these new techniques, the European Union has also revised its stance, paving the way for a more favorable classification of plants obtained through genome editing. However, uncertainties remain regarding their acceptance in certain export markets, particularly in Asia.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "Global acceptance grows for gene edited crops" - 6 February 2026

Tax Revolution for Agriculture: Equipment Sharing Finally Recognized by the State

FRANCE. On February 2, 2026, the collective mechanization tax credit will come into effect, an unprecedented fiscal measure that supports the pooling of agricultural equipment among farmers through Cuma. This initiative, praised by the Cuma Network and parliamentarians, aims to enhance the competitiveness of farms in the face of rising mechanization costs. With a rate of 7.5% and eligibility caps, this measure could transform agricultural practices in France, promoting a more responsible and cooperative approach.

Publié par CUMA FRANCE, Source: Pleinchamp, published under the title "Révolution fiscale pour l'agriculture : le partage de matéri..." - 6 February 2026

Aviation Biofuels: An Opportunity for Cover Crops

European regulations mandating the use of 2% biofuels for aircraft at major airports starting in 2025 "open a huge market" for cover crops like camelina, sunflower, safflower, and Abyssinian mustard, says Louis-Marie Allard, an engineer at Terres Inovia. This could transform agricultural practices and promote the growth of cover crops in the agricultural sector.

Source: La France Agricole, published under the title "Les carburants d’avion durables sont une opportunité pour le..." - 5 February 2026

Green Nanopesticides: Potential Hindered by Lack of Clear Definition and Consensus on Composition

The rise of nanopesticides made from natural ingredients raises crucial questions about their definition and regulation. While research progresses towards more sustainable formulations, the registration process in Brazil remains complex and lengthy, hindering market access for these promising solutions. However, producers are showing increasing interest in more effective and less harmful products, which could transform the agricultural landscape.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "Lack of information hinders regulation of ‘green’ nanopestic..." - 5 February 2026

Mexico and Brazil: Agrochemical Regulatory Outlook for 2026

Regulatory reforms in Mexico and Brazil are transforming pesticide and fertilizer management, with strategic implications for businesses. Mexico has implemented regulations aimed at streamlining approval processes, while Brazil is considering major changes that could redefine registration and risk substance management requirements. Companies must prepare for these changes to ensure compliance and optimize market access.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "2026 LATAM agrochemical regulatory outlook: Mexico and Brazi..." - 2 February 2026

The DBV and NTGs: A Unique Stance on Agricultural Patents in Europe

The Deutscher Bauernverband (DBV), Germany's leading agricultural union, advocates for new genetic modification techniques (NTGs) while condemning plant patents, which it views as detrimental to innovation and farmer autonomy. This original stance contrasts with that of other European agricultural organizations, often more supportive of patent protection, raising crucial questions about the future of agriculture and varietal research in Europe.

Source: Info Ogm, published under the title "Brevets et NTG : le positionnement singulier du principal sy..." - 30 January 2026

Deregulation of GMOs: The European Commission Strengthens Its Power

The European Commission is moving towards deregulating GMOs by removing the framework for plants derived from new genetic modification techniques. This initiative, approved by the Council of the European Union, includes controversial measures such as unlimited pesticide authorization and an enhancement of the Commission's powers over future legislation. These changes aim to boost the biotechnology sector in Europe but raise concerns about the safety and regulation of GMO products.

Source: Info Ogm, published under the title "La Commission européenne en maître absolu sur les législatio..." - 21 January 2026

Deregulation of GM Microorganisms: A New Step in Europe

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

Australia: Consultation on Amendments to Genetic Technology Regulations

In September 2024, amendments to the Gene Technology Act 2000 were proposed to enhance the responsiveness of the National Gene Technology Scheme. These changes require amendments to the Gene Technology Regulations 2001, and a consultation document has been made available to gather stakeholder feedback. Submissions are open until March 1, 2026.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "Australia - Consultation on the proposed amendments to the G..." - 19 January 2026

The EU Pesticide Controversy: Global Stakes and Impacts

The growing discussion around banned pesticides in the EU highlights regulatory inconsistencies that affect not only European farmers but also Chinese agrochemical companies. As residue standards become trade barriers, businesses must adapt to a landscape where risk is increasingly tied to political and ethical controversies, thus redefining competition in the global market.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "The EU Pesticide ″Double Standard″ Debate Escalates" - 19 January 2026

EU Council Upholds Patentability of GMOs from New Genetic Techniques

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

India: A Bill to Regulate Seed Quality and Traceability

The Ministry of Agriculture is set to replace the 1966 law to ensure quality seeds, enhance traceability, and combat fraudulent sales. With over 9,500 comments analyzed, this reform aims to encourage innovation, protect farmers, and modernize a sector valued at $3.82 billion, while imposing severe penalties for major violations.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "Government of India to introduce seed bill in budget session" - 5 January 2026

The European Commission Validates New Genomic Techniques

The EU has adopted a framework distinguishing two categories of plants derived from new genomic techniques (NGTs); category 1 plants, comparable to conventional varieties, are exempt from GMO legislation after verification, while category 2 plants remain subject to risk assessment, traceability, and labeling. NGTs enable precise and rapid modifications to develop plant varieties that are more resilient to climate, pests, and resource-efficient, promoting sustainable agriculture and supporting the competitiveness of the European agricultural sector.

SEPEHR ACHARD, Source: Igronews, published under the title "EU Commission Welcomes Political Agreement on New Genomic Te..." - 5 December 2025

Everything You Need to Know About Registering European Geographical Indications

A recent tool has been made available by the European Union (EU) to provide clear guidelines to producers and producer groups, guiding them on how to register their agri-food products under EU quality schemes, such as PDO or PGI, to ensure technical and regulatory compliance.

Source: European Commission Common Agricultural Policy, published under the title "All you need to know about how to register your Geographical..." - 26 November 2025

Unified European Front Against Carbon Tax on Fertilizers

Alert in the European agricultural sector: Twelve organizations oppose the implementation of the carbon tax (MACF) on fertilizers, denouncing a major impact on the value chain, increased costs for producers, and an inevitable rise in food prices, threatening the stability of the entire agri-food sector.

Source: La France Agricole, published under the title "Douze organisations européennes unies contre la taxe carbone..." - 26 November 2025

The Requirement for Digital Phytosanitary Registration Postponed to 2027

Users of plant protection products now have an additional year until January 1, 2027, to prepare, following an EU regulation published on November 3, 2025. This extension aims to assist member states in organizing digital transitions and training, particularly for small farmers, elderly operators, and non-agricultural sectors.

Source: La France Agricole, published under the title "L’obligation de registre phyto numérique est reportée à 2027" - 5 November 2025

The European Union Accelerates Decarbonization with New Climate Goals for 2040

On the eve of the Climate COP, the European Union finally adopts its ambitious goals for 2040, marking a turning point towards sustainable agriculture. How will agritech and plant technologies, such as resilient crops and emission reductions, accelerate this green transition in Europe?

Source: Usine Nouvelle, published under the title "Décarbonation : L'Union européenne se fixe de nouveaux objec..." - 5 November 2025

1992: The Shock That Transformed the CAP and French Agriculture

The Mac Sharry reform of 1991: a turning point that erodes agricultural protections and fuels farmers' discontent with Europe, as illustrated by Denis Badré in La France Agricole, highlighting a climate of uncertainty and upheaval for the sector. This key moment reveals the ongoing challenges of the Common Agricultural Policy.

Source: La France Agricole, published under the title "1992, l’électrochoc de la réforme de la Pac" - 21 October 2025