New Zealand releases proposed updates on gene technology framework

The Government of New Zealand has issued the proposed Gene Technology Bill 2024 and is now going through the parliamentary process. The Bill includes several updates to the existing regulatory procedure implemented in the country.

One of the salient features of the modernized regulatory framework is the formation of a dedicated gene technology regulator within the Environmental Protection Authority. The regulator is tasked to conduct assessment and management of the risks of regulated organisms, commonly referred to as GMOs, releasing vital information to the public, guidance to regulated parties, and advice on technical matters to Ministers.

A Technical Advisory Committee will advise the regulator on risk assessment and risk management plans. This will be part of the full assessment pathway, expedited assessments, the development of guidance documents and risk analysis frameworks, proposed updates to the non-notifiable and notifiable risk tiers, and activities eligible for a pre-assessed activity license.

Another update included in the legislation is the introduction of a tiered risk-based system that regulates gene editing based on its level of risk. This system grants exemptions for low-risk products while tailoring licensing requirements for higher-risk activities.

Passing the bill would position New Zealand to harness the benefits of biotechnology innovations in agriculture, medicine, and environmental protection.

Read more from NZ's Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment.