Biotech Starter Kit – Why is the NGT for Plants Regulation Important for Biotechnology?
FACTSHEET
Why is the NGT for Plants Regulation Important for Biotechnology?
Biotechnology serves as the backbone for the development and production of vital products and technologies across numerous sectors. It has implications for the EU’s global competitiveness and desire for greater resiliency against climate and geopolitical dynamics. The existing EU framework governing biotechnology is currently posing significant challenges in keeping pace with scientific advancements.
As an MEP, you can advocate for comprehensive and up-to-date regulations. By championing informed and forward-thinking policies, you can contribute to the creation of a regulatory environment that ensures Europe remains at the forefront of biotechnological innovation while prioritising environmental sustainability, societal well-being, and economic resilience.
Micro-organisms have been crucial in human civilisation, contributing to advancements in biotechnology that have led to innovations in technical, agricultural, and medicinal fields.
What is the Regulatory Framework for NGTs?
The European Commission (EC) proposed a new regulation for plants produced by certain New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) in 2023. The scope of the proposal is limited to plants and certain NGT techniques for which, according to the Commission, knowledge is more advanced than for other Genetically Modified Organisms such as micro-organisms. The EU Parliament adopted its position supporting mainly the EC proposal except for patents for which there was a majority vote in support of banning the use of patents for plants. The report also includes amendments to develop a new framework for microorganisms.
The Council has not yet reached a Common Approach due to continuing negotiations around the issue of patents.
EuropaBio’s Position
The NGT proposal is a welcome modernisation of Europe’s biotechnology innovation, but there are two points that are important to keep in mind:
- Micro-organisms need further attention given the rapid progress in understanding genetically modified microorganisms (GMMs) and their applications. By creating a new framework for micro-organisms, the EU can lay out a pragmatic approach for novel products that will grow the EU’s resilience and competitiveness.
- Patents are essential to EU competitiveness. There is separate legislation on Biopatent and the EC will be developing a broad-based analysis and report on patents by 2026. The NGT regulation should therefore be aligned with the Biopatent directive and not include patent exclusion for certain NGT plants.
