Hungarian Minister to Inaugurate Annual Non-GMO Summit
Hungary’s Minister of Agriculture to Address Non-GMO Summit Focused on New Genomic Techniques
István Nagy, Hungary’s Minister of Agriculture and the current chair of the EU’s Agriculture and Fisheries Council, is set to deliver the opening remarks at the international non-GMO summit scheduled for 7 and 8 October in Frankfurt, Germany. This year’s summit will center around the political discussions surrounding new genomic techniques (NGTs).
The non-GMO summit, which is the largest gathering in the non-GMO sector, aims to promote food and feed production without the use of gene-editing methods. This sector is committed to ensuring that non-GMO labeling schemes across different EU countries adhere to established requirements.
Nagy’s appointment as a speaker raises questions due to the ongoing divisions among EU member states regarding gene-edited plants. However, event organizers clarified that he will address the audience in his role as a national minister, given the Council’s lack of consensus on NGT regulation. Additionally, German State Secretary Silvia Bender will represent Federal Minister of Agriculture Cem Özdemir and also deliver an opening address, underscoring the significance of the non-GMO industry in Europe.
The non-GMO industry is particularly robust in Germany, where sales of “Ohne GenTechnik” (without genetic engineering) food products reached a record €17.4 billion in 2023. Austria has also reported significant success, with €2.5 billion in sales from non-GMO milk and egg production.
Currently, in the EU, only one genetically modified crop—the insect-resistant maize—has received authorization for cultivation, specifically in Spain. Despite this, the EU imports millions of tons of genetically modified crops each year, primarily for animal feed.
Hungary’s Firm Stance on GMOs
Minister Nagy is known for his strong opposition to genetically modified organisms (GMOs), a stance that stems from Hungary’s 2012 constitution that emphasizes a “GMO-free” agricultural approach. Hungary has also expressed opposition to the European Commission’s proposal to facilitate the use of NGTs, a proposal that has faced delays in the Council.
Nagy’s participation in the summit is expected to create tension within the Council as Hungary pushes for its agricultural policies against the backdrop of an evolving EU regulatory framework. Criticism has emerged regarding Hungary’s approach to reopening negotiations on NGT legislation, including issues that prior presidencies had already negotiated, leaving minimal room for progress.
As the summit approaches, the dynamics within the EU regarding GMO policies and regulations continue to evolve, highlighting the complexities of agricultural governance in the region.
John Peterson graduated with a degree in Agricultural Sciences from Wageningen University in the Netherlands. His specialization is in sustainable crop production and soil health management. John is passionate about integrating modern technology with traditional farming methods to enhance productivity while preserving the environment. He currently works as a consultant, helping farmers adopt sustainable practices.