Gene editing – also referred to as new genomic techniques (NGTs) – describe a number of new scientific methods used to alter genomes with the aim of genetically engineering certain traits into plants, such as drought tolerance or pesticide resistance.

The Commission’s long-awaited proposal – spearheaded by its health and food safety division, DG SANTE – on whether to loosen EU rules on new genetic techniques is expected in June 2023.

But while DG SANTE has long hinted that it is in favour of deregulation, a number of question marks remain over the contentious technology, including its compatibility with the EU organics sector, patents, traceability and detection.

In this Event Report, EURACTIV explores some of the tensions surrounding the technology ahead of the presentation of the proposal.