Present and Future EU GMO Policy

Regulatory approvals for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the EU differentiate between alternative uses and remain particularly controversial in the case of cultivation. One of the solutions includes nationalizing the approval process, which—depending on its implementation—might offer a solution over the current deadlock situation. Irrespectively, the increased use of new GMOs in many parts of the world, along with a mired regulatory approval process for import of GMOs in the EU, promise increasing incidence of regulatory asynchronicity and structural trade disruptions. Reforms are needed that go beyond the current debate of nationalizing the approval process. The implications of asynchronous approval processes on international trade may also affect other countries and could require a solution at an international level.