New Genomic Techniques – Upcoming Vote in the Parliament
Together with nearly 100 civil society, farmers, breeders and business organisations, the Biodynamic Federation Demeter International addressed a letter to all Members of the European Parliament of the Environnement Committee ahead of the upcoming committee vote on the New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) proposal scheduled for May 5.
After the EU foreign affairs ministers adopted the trilogue agreement reached in December 2025, it is now up to the Parliament to endorse the agreement on the table. However, this agreement fails to adequately protect GMO-free farming and seed breeding and removes citizens’ right to know what is in their food. As NGT traits are patented, it also exposes farmers and small seed breeders to patent infringements.
In its first reading position, the European Parliament had introduced essential safeguards such as consumer labelling, traceability, and a ban on patents, to defend the rights of European farmers, breeders and citizens alike. The outcome of the trilogue negotiations falls short of maintaining these essential safeguards. The Environment Committee should now re-introduce these crucial protections, before the proposal is finally adopted.
With its partners the Biodynamic Federation Demeter International urges the Members of the Parliament to stand up for the protection and freedom of choice of European farmers, breeders and citizens by defending its original position on consumer labelling, traceability and patents.
For further information, contact Clara.
