The European Parliament plenary on 17 June 2026 adopted the report on new genomic techniques (NGTs) in agriculture, rejecting all amendments after a heated debate. Rapporteur Jessica Polfjärd (EPP) urged rejection of amendments, arguing NGTs provide essential tools for climate resilience and food security. Christophe Clergeau (S&D) opposed the report, warning of patents and control by multinationals like Bayer. Silvia Sardone (PfE) backed NGTs as distinct from GMOs, accusing 'environmental Taliban' of misinformation. Pietro Fiocchi (ECR) supported NGTs for reducing pesticides and water use. Pascal Canfin (Renew) endorsed a 'European model' for NGTs, improving on the Commission proposal. Martin Häusling (Greens-EFA) and Anja Hazekamp (The Left) opposed, citing lack of labeling, traceability, and patent bans, with Hazekamp calling it a 'direct result of aggressive lobbying.' Anja Arndt (NI) demanded mandatory labeling and patent exclusion. All amendments were rejected, and the legislative act was adopted. The Parliament also adopted the return regulation provisional agreement, the EU-Pakistan tariff agreement, and the termination of the EU-Liberia forest agreement. The cleavage centers on innovation versus precaution: Polfjärd and allies prioritize rapid deployment of NGTs to boost agricultural resilience and reduce input use, benefiting farmers and biotech firms but potentially disadvantaging the organic sector and consumers who demand transparency. Opponents stress risks of corporate concentration and lack of traceability, which could undermine consumer trust and organic certification. The adopted report now moves to the Council for final approval.
EU Matrix analysis