Plant scientist explains the impact of the EU's new gene-editing rules

The European Union adopted new legislation on plants obtained through certain new genomic techniques in June 2026.

The new framework will apply after a two-year transition period.

It distinguishes between two categories.

Plants in Category 1 (NGT-1) have a limited number and type of genetic changes that could also occur naturally or through conventional breeding.

Under the new legislation, they will largely be regulated like conventionally bred plants.

Category 2 plants with more extensive or complex modifications will remain subject to the existing genetically modified organism (GMO) rules. ...