STRASBOURG, FRANCE / EuroWire / – The European Parliament adopted new European Union rules for plants developed through new genomic techniques. The regulation aims to support sustainable agriculture, crop innovation and food security. It covers plants created through targeted changes to genetic material. The rules apply to EU plants and imported plants.
Lawmakers split new genomic techniques plants into two groups, known as NGT-1 and NGT-2. NGT-1 covers plants with limited genetic changes that could also occur through conventional breeding. Once authorities verify that status, those plants receive treatment similar to conventional plants under EU rules.
NGT-2 covers plants with more complex genetic changes. These plants remain under existing genetically modified organism rules. Developers must complete risk assessment and obtain authorization before EU commercialization. The Council of the European Union adopted its position in April. Parliament and Council negotiators reached a provisional agreement in December 2025.
Rules split plants into two categories
The regulation excludes some plants from the lighter NGT-1 route. Plants engineered for herbicide tolerance cannot enter that category. Plants designed to produce insecticidal substances also cannot qualify. EU countries may restrict or ban the cultivation of authorized NGT-2 plants. They may also use coexistence measures for other products.
Traceability and labeling rules differ by category. NGT-2 plants keep full traceability and mandatory labeling. NGT-1 plant varieties enter a public EU database. Seed bags and other plant reproductive material must carry an NGT-1 label. The European Commission proposed the plant regulation in July 2023.
Organic production remains outside scope
The regulation bars the use of new genomic techniques in organic production. Technically unavoidable NGT-1 presence will not count as non-compliance for organic operators. The Commission must assess administrative, economic and practical burdens for the organic sector. It must also review effects tied to operator and consumer perception.
Patent provisions remain part of the framework. Developers may patent new genomic techniques, except traits or sequences found in nature or produced by biological means. The rules include patent transparency measures and safeguards on farmer access. The regulation enters into force 20 days after publication in the EU Official Journal. Most provisions apply two years later.