b'The EU Commission is considering a verification process to determine if a product derived through gene editing could be exempt it from GMO regulations. This would align the EU with countries like the UK, which have taken a more relaxed approach to gene editing. However, the timeline for implement-ing such changes is uncertain, given the complexities of EU policymaking.After the UKs exit from the European Union, they initiated discussions on how to regulate genome editing and genome-edited products. What theyve established is known as the pre-cision breeding bill. This bill adopts an approach like the onefollowed by several other countries globally, including South American nations, Australia, the United States and Canada.The core principle is that if a product resulting from these technologies can be achieved through conventional breeding methods, it is not classified as a GMO and thus escapes GMO Mendel Perkins, lead scientist forPetra Jorasch, manager of plantregulations. However, if it differs from what can be achieved AgGene. breeding innovation advocacy forthrough conventional breeding, it remains under GMO regula-Euroseeds. tions.The UK has already drafted and adopted its regulation, with secondary legislation pending. It anticipates having a fully operational system by the end of 2024, Jorasch said. On the other hand, the EU has proposed a system that shares similari-ties with this approach.In stark contrast, the European Unions approach to geneIf the EU adopts a more lenient stance on gene editing editing regulations has been considerably more stringent.regulations, it could have positive global implications. It would Jorasch explained the historical background of gene editingfacilitate agricultural trade and promote food production, regulations in the EU, highlighting the European Court ofaligning with EU sustainability goals, Jorasch said.Justices ruling in 2018 that classified gene-edited products asSuch changes might allow the EU to become a leader in GMOs. global agricultural production and encourage international col-Unlike Canadas approach, the EU emphasizes the processlaboration. In the bigger picture, a science-based approach to of development rather than the final product. gene editing regulations can help drive innovation and address This decision has restricted researchers and businesses inchallenges such as climate impact on agriculture, Perkins noted. the EU, leading to frustration and a potential brain drain as sci-entists seek more accommodating jurisdictions for their work, she said. This is something Perkins can attest to.Despite the challenges faced by the EU in regard to gene editing, theres a glimmer of hope for the EU, as discussions surrounding potential changes in gene editing regulations areWatch our full episode on gene editing and the political sphere. ongoing. germination.ca/canada-eu-gene-editingJANUARY 2024GERMINATION.CA 13'