European Union Looks to Ease Restrictions on Gene-Edited Crops

Dr. Peter Beetham, interim CEO of Cibus, joined us to discuss the status of EU gene-editing deregulation and its potential implications for agriculture.

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM (RFD NEWS) — The European Union is moving toward easing restrictions on gene-edited crop production, a shift that could increase farmer access to pest-resistant crop varieties. The potential change follows action by the EU’s environmental committee, which has voted in favor of deregulation.

Dr. Peter Beetham, interim CEO of Cibus, joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to provide an update on the current status of the deregulation process.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Beetham explained that the proposal has advanced following the environmental committee’s vote, marking a significant step from the previous regulatory framework discussed earlier this week. HEalso discussed what the proposed changes could mean for agriculture across the region, noting that revised rules may affect farmers and crop development going forward.

Next, Beetham addressed broader implications for the agricultural industry, including how easing restrictions on gene-edited crops could contribute to a more unified market. Finally, he outlined the remaining steps in the regulatory process as the proposal continues to move forward in the European Union.

Related Stories
In a landmark preliminary agreement filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Deere & Co. agreed to a $99 million settlement to resolve a consolidated class-action antitrust suit.
Data centers may compete with farms for key resources.
Catch the double-episode premiere of Prairie Prophets, Tuesday night at 9 PM ET on RFD Network and RFD+
This Final Rule adopts the changes introduced in the Interim Final Rule, consolidating seven agency-specific NEPA regulations into a single, department-wide framework, reducing the overall volume of regulations by 66 percent.
Teams create meals from pantry items while incorporating a surprise ingredient
Local groups distribute potatoes to support hundreds of families across the Idaho Panhandle to celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Tidal Grow’s Align-N system delivers urea nitrogen directly to leaves, improving nutrient efficiency and boosting crop yields for farmers.
Farmers this year will finally be able to update their base acres with the USDA, something that experts warn must be done with complete accuracy.
“Cow goggles” are helping farmers experience cattle vision in real time, offering new tools to reduce stress, improve movement, and enhance livestock management.
Fewer interruptions could translate to improved efficiency—and fewer costly delays when timing matters most.
K-State’s Dr. Gregg Ibendahl breaks down the impacts of the Middle East ceasefire on energy markets and input costs, and what farmers should watch in the weeks ahead.
CME Group Executive Director of Ag Research Fred Seamon discusses the recent rise in farmer sentiment highlighted in the March Ag Economy Barometer report.