Slovak Breeding and Seed Association opposes EU regulation lawsuit

The Slovak Breeding and Seed Association (SŠSA) has expressed opposition to the Slovak government's decision to file a lawsuit with the European Court of Justice regarding EU regulations on New Genomic Techniques (NGT).

Miroslav Námesný, Chairman of the SŠSA, argued that instead of spending public resources on legal disputes with uncertain outcomes, the government should focus on the high-quality implementation of the NGT regulation. He noted that the regulation is a valid EU legal act resulting from a long legislative process involving scientific assessments and public consultations.

The SŠSA recommends that the government prioritize creating secondary legislation, establishing clear practical rules, supporting research and breeding, and educating farmers and the public. This approach, they argue, would ensure Slovak breeders and researchers can utilize the opportunities provided by the new European framework to remain competitive.

Prime Minister Robert Fico previously announced the intent to challenge the EU regulation, which exempts plants obtained through NGT from current GMO regulations, a move approved by the EU in June.