Plant Breeders Embrace Gene Technology at NZ Forum

Plant breeders gathered in Christchurch this month to explore the potential of gene technology in agriculture during a forum hosted by the New Zealand Plant Breeding and Research Association (NZPBRA). The event provided valuable insights from experts, particularly focusing on advancements in Australia, where gene technology legislation has been in place for over 25 years.

During the forum, Sarah Clark, the chief executive of NZPBRA, emphasized the importance of the timely information shared with members. She noted that understanding how gene technologies are applied in Australian plant breeding programs could help New Zealand’s primary industries navigate future developments. “For many people in the primary industries, the challenging question is what happens after the breeding; what plants might be grown in New Zealand, where and how do we get the benefit without forfeiting existing advantages, such as trading on our GMO-free status?” Clark stated.

Australian agriculture has made significant strides by coordinating a supply chain that accommodates both conventional and organic crops alongside those developed using gene technologies. This collaborative effort aims to establish a pathway for coexistence, allowing farmers to benefit from diverse agricultural practices.

The Gene Technology Bill 2024, which aims to align New Zealand’s regulations with Australia’s framework, had its first reading in Parliament in December 2023. Australia introduced its genetic modification legislation in the year 2000, and David Hudson, an Australian consultant, highlighted the rapid advancements made in the past few years. He advised plant breeders to work towards a “permission to operate” model by engaging all stakeholders in the agricultural value chain, including researchers, breeders, growers, and consumers.

Professor Emily Parker, a science adviser with the Ministry for Business Innovation and Employment, outlined ongoing efforts to develop a new regulatory regime under the Gene Technology Bill. Public consultation following its first reading closed in February 2024, receiving approximately 15,000 submissions. The Parliament’s Health Select Committee was initially expected to report back in July 2024, but this has been postponed until later this month. Professor Parker anticipates that the Bill will be reintroduced to the House before the end of the year.

In addition to discussions on gene technology, experts presented on the latest breeding efforts utilizing conventional selection methods for various crops, including pines, kiwifruit, apples, pears, and forages. Traditional breeding programs can require up to 15 years and significant investment to develop a single new cultivar, highlighting the potential benefits of integrating gene technologies into these processes.

The NZPBRA serves as a representative body for plant breeders, intellectual property owners, and managers of proprietary agricultural seeds. As the industry evolves, the insights shared at this forum may play a crucial role in shaping the future of plant breeding in New Zealand.