On 1 July 2026, the European Parliament tabled a motion for a resolution objecting to the Commission's draft decision to renew import authorisation for genetically modified maize NK603 × T25, a herbicide-tolerant variety used in food and feed. The resolution, backed by the S&D group and MEPs Biljana Borzan, Sirpa Pietikäinen, Martin Häusling, and Anja Hazekamp, argues that the Commission exceeds its legal powers under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 and fails to ensure a high level of protection for human and animal health and the environment. The move directly challenges the Commission's plan and could block the renewal if adopted by the full Parliament.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a favourable opinion on 27 November 2025, but the Parliament's resolution notes that EFSA did not assess long-term toxicology, cumulative effects of multiple GM traits, or interactions with herbicide residues. The maize is tolerant to glyphosate and glufosinate; glufosinate is classified as toxic to reproduction category 1B and its EU approval expired on 31 July 2018. No opinion was delivered by Member States in the Standing Committee on 27 April 2026 or the Appeal Committee on 2 June 2026, meaning the Commission could proceed with the authorisation. The resolution warns of an increased "herbicide treadmill," harm to biodiversity, soil, and water, and inconsistency with EU pesticide reduction commitments under the Farm to Fork strategy.
The resolution calls on the Commission to withdraw the draft decision and not renew the authorisation. It also urges legislative reform of GMO decision-making procedures to address what it sees as a democratic deficit, where the Commission can approve GMOs despite Member State deadlock. If adopted in plenary, the resolution would formally object to the Commission's implementing decision, triggering a review. The file now moves to a plenary vote, where a simple majority is needed to pass the objection. The Commission would then have to reconsider its draft, potentially leading to a revised proposal or withdrawal.
The resolution impacts several stakeholders. EU food and feed importers face potential supply disruptions if authorisation is not renewed, as they rely on imports of this GM maize. EU farmers using conventional or organic methods would benefit from reduced risk of cross-contamination and herbicide drift. Consumers concerned about GMOs and pesticide residues would see continued restrictions on the product. The Commission's regulatory authority is challenged, as the Parliament asserts its oversight role in GMO approvals, potentially slowing future authorisations.