EU Faces Pressure to Fast-Track Genomic Crops Law for Sustainable Agriculture

A coalition of 31 agri-food organisations has called on European lawmakers to rapidly approve a new regulation on plants developed through new genomic techniques (NGTs), highlighting its importance for sustainable agriculture and food security. The group urged Members of the European Parliament to adopt the law without further amendments, based on a compromise text agreed in late 2025. The proposed regulation is designed to create a clear legal framework for crops developed using advanced breeding technologies. Supporters argue that such a framework is essential to help European agriculture respond to growing sustainability challenges, including climate change, pest pressures, and volatile market conditions. Faster innovation in plant breeding is seen as key to improving crop resilience and reducing environmental impacts. The law introduces a distinction between two categories of genomic plants. Those considered equivalent to conventionally bred crops would face lighter regulatory requirements, while more complex genetically modified plants would continue to be regulated under existing GMO rules. This tiered approach aims to balance innovation with safety, transparency, and environmental protection. The European Union has already taken steps toward adopting the framework, with the Council backing rules that promote sustainable and competitive food systems. The regulation is expected to support the development of climate-resilient and resource-efficient crops, while maintaining strict standards for health and environmental safety. However, the coalition warned that reopening negotiations or introducing amendments at this stage could delay implementation and weaken Europe’s global competitiveness in agricultural innovation. With other regions advancing faster in genomic technologies, stakeholders stress that timely approval is critical for ensuring the EU keeps pace while advancing its sustainability goals.