Gene editing gains ground as Europe eases rules for new crop traits

EU Adopts Landmark Rules for Gene-Edited Plants After Two-Decade Wait

After nearly two decades of scientific debate, political wrangling and technological revolution, the European Union has finally rewritten the rules governing the newest generation of plant breeding. On 17 June 2026, with the approval of both the European Council and the European Parliament, Regulation (EU) 2026/1388 on plants obtained by certain new genomic techniques and […]

Europe’s Embrace of Next Generation Technology a Huge Step Forward

Europe’s New Genomic Techniques framework opens new opportunities for plant breeders to develop improved crop varieties faster. Enid Perez-Lara argues that clear science communication will be essential as these technologies move forward.

Gene editing gains ground as Europe eases rules for new crop traits

Gene editing and precision-bred crops are gaining momentum in Europe as regulatory changes create new opportunities for agricultural innovation. Dr. Peter Beetham, co-founder and president of Cibus, attended the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit in London. He joined us on Thursday's Market Day Report to…