As Europe faces challenges like climate change, rising food demands, and environmental pressures, innovation in plant breeding is essential. EU policymakers are currently negotiating new rules for plant varieties developed through New Genomic Techniques (NGTs), which enable breeders to create crops with improved yield, resilience to water shortages, and resistance to pesticides, while reducing reliance on crop protection products and fertilisers.
At the same time, the European Intellectual Property framework for plants is complex, with Plant Breeders’ Rights protecting varieties and patents covering traits and breeding methods. While designed to foster innovation and competition, it can be difficult to navigate, especially for small and medium-sized companies. Licensing platforms have been introduced to simplify access, yet questions remain about the most effective approaches for ensuring a competitive and sustainable agricultural sector.
This event is by invitation only.
