Copa and Cogeca welcome the Council of the European Union’s adoption of the Trilogue consensus on the Regulation on New Genomic Techniques (NGTs). At Council level, this marks the conclusion of over a decade of debate, confirming a science-based and proportionate approach that aligns with the European Commission’s proposal.
The agreement confirms that NGT 1 plants, indistinguishable from conventionally bred varieties, will be regulated in the same way as conventional plants, providing long-awaited clarity for breeders and farmers.
At a time when European agriculture faces increasing pressure from climate change, input constraints and emerging pests, this regulation provides access to innovative breeding tools capable of delivering faster, more resilient crop varieties, including improved tolerance to drought and heat stress.
“This agreement is a game changer for European agriculture. NGTs can help farmers adapt to changing conditions while supporting sustainable production and food security in the EU” said Thor Gunnar Kofoed, Chairman of Copa and Cogeca’s Working Party on seeds.
Copa and Cogeca now urge the European Parliament to swiftly endorse the Trilogue agreement, to ensure timely entry into force. Keeping in mind that the development of new plant varieties typically takes 8 to 10 years, it is essential to provide regulatory certainty in order to deliver innovation and tangible benefits to farmers without delay.
Fonte: Copa and Cogeca
