The EU Council has adopted the EU's negotiating position for the 11th session of the Governing Body of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA), endorsing a zero nominal growth core budget and a new Capacity Development Strategy. The position, outlined in a Council outcome document published on 1 September 2026, covers key issues including the enhancement of the Multilateral System (MLS) for access and benefit-sharing, Farmers' Rights, and Digital Sequence Information (DSI). The EU and its Member States declared shared competence on most agenda items, with Member States retaining voting rights.
Budget and Capacity Development
The Council supports a zero nominal growth core budget for the Treaty's operations, reflecting fiscal restraint amid broader EU budget pressures. It also approves a new Capacity Development Strategy aimed at strengthening developing countries' ability to implement the Treaty, including conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources. This aligns with the EU's longstanding commitment to international cooperation on agricultural biodiversity.
Multilateral System and Benefit-Sharing
A central focus is enhancing the MLS, which facilitates access to plant genetic resources for research and breeding while ensuring fair benefit-sharing. The EU position seeks to expand the system's coverage and improve its functionality, though details on specific mechanisms remain under negotiation. The issue is contentious, with some stakeholders pushing for mandatory contributions from commercial users, while others prefer voluntary approaches.
Farmers' Rights and Digital Sequence Information
The EU engages cautiously on Farmers' Rights, supporting national implementation but avoiding binding international obligations. On DSI, the position calls for further study and a science-based approach, reflecting divisions among member states and stakeholders. Some argue DSI should fall under the MLS, while others advocate for open access.
Impact on Stakeholders
- EU agricultural research institutions: May benefit from improved access to genetic resources under an enhanced MLS, but could face new reporting or payment obligations.
- Developing country farmers: The Capacity Development Strategy could provide technical support, but progress on Farmers' Rights remains limited.
- Seed and biotech companies: Uncertainty over DSI regulation and benefit-sharing mechanisms may affect investment in plant breeding.
- EU member states: Shared competence means national governments retain significant control, potentially leading to divergent implementation.
Institutional Follow-Up
The EU position will guide member state delegations at the ITPGRFA Governing Body session, expected later this year. The European Parliament will not vote on this position, as it falls under Council competence. The outcome of the session will inform future EU policy on genetic resources and agricultural biodiversity.