New research and innovation partnerships, faster risk assessment and innovation-friendly regulations are all on the table as the European Commission plans a new EU strategic approach to research and innovation for more competitive and sustainable agricultural systems.

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Plant breeding innovations, including new genomic techniques (NGT) that alter the genetic material of plants in a faster and more precise way than conventional transgenics, will also be key to Europe’s food security, according to the Commission.

A 2023 proposal to relax rules for NGTs is currently stalled in the Council. The Commission warns that the EU must urgently implement the proposals to ensure a level playing field with other regions currently adapting their legislation.

MEP Jessica Polfjärd, Parliament’s rapporteur for the proposal, is hopeful the Council will soon decide on its position so that farmers can begin using the technology. “NGT in agriculture is vital for the future of farming. It can help make our crops more resilient to climate change, reduce the need for plant protection products and fertilisers, and enhance the competitiveness of European farmers, all while lowering emissions,” she told Science|Business.

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