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
A new study found that retaining the EPA’s half-RIN credit protects soybean demand, farm income, and crushing-sector strength while preserving biofuel market flexibility.
Rising federal debt is increasing pressure on Washington to limit spending, which could tighten future funding and delivery for agricultural programs.
Western Caucus member Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) details the SPEED Act on Champions of Rural America. The legislation aims to reform NEPA, streamline permitting, and expand domestic energy development.
“I’m not sure where this bridge goes,” trader Brady Huck with Advanced Trading told RFD-TV News earlier this week.
CoBank’s 2026 Year Ahead Report cites global grain oversupply, easing inflation, rate cuts, and major data center growth that could reshape rural America.

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:

The Pennsylvania Farm Show continues through Saturday, wrapping up another successful year of celebrating agriculture in the Commonwealth.
Shaun Haney joined us to discuss Canada’s new trade agreement with China, the potential impact on farmers and exporters, and what it could mean for U.S.–Canada trade relations going forward.
National Corn Growers Association Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses corn supply pressures, market fundamentals, policy considerations, and producer outlook for the year ahead.
The proposal signals a renewed push to offset tariff-driven losses, stabilize nutrition programs, and broaden eligibility for farm aid, though its path forward will depend on congressional negotiations.
The application deadline is March 8, 2026. The 1890 National Scholars Program aims to encourage students at 1890 land-grant universities to pursue careers in food, agriculture, and natural resource sciences.
Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features swine competition with top exhibitors, including Grand Champion Brinley Wilson, ahead of Saturday’s premium sale.