THE IMPACT OF RADICAL GE REFORM

The government’s fast-tracked deregulation of genetic engineering (GE) could have far-reaching consequences for New Zealand’s environment, food systems, and economy.

Learn what these changes mean, why they matter, and how they could affect you.

Stay informed—and discover how you can take action today!

THE ISSUE: THE GOVERNMENT IS FAST-TRACKING GE DEREGULATION

New Zealand is on the verge of becoming one of the most deregulated countries in the world for genetic engineering (GE)/genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The government is pushing legislation to establish a new GE regime by the end of 2025, with the Gene Tech Bill having past its first reading bill in Parliament just before Christmas. However, critical discussions on economic risks and ethical considerations have been excluded from the legislative process.

Alarmingly, many MPs, farmers, and the public are unaware of the full implications of this proposed regime, often echoing pro-GE rhetoric without understanding the scientific realities or potential risks. This lack of awareness poses a serious challenge as New Zealand faces a significant shift that could permanently alter its agricultural landscape.

Key Changes Under the Proposed Reforms:

  1. Reduced Precautionary Measures: Shifting from a cautious approach to a permissive one, allowing GMOs to be released in our communities with no safeguards.

  2. Relaxed Regulatory Standards: Creating some of the most lenient GE regulations in the world, even compared to countries with well-established GE/GMO industries.

  3. Eliminated Traceability Requirements: Making it almost impossible to track GE products in the food supply, jeopardising New Zealand’s “clean, green” reputation and reducing consumer choice.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR NEW ZEALAND

The proposed reforms carry significant risks:

  1. Environmental Impact: The release of GE crops or organisms carries significant risks, including potential harm to ecosystems and biodiversity. Organic and non-GE growers face the threat of cross-contamination, which could compromise their operations and lead to increased production costs, loss of business and higher food prices for non-GMO food.

  2. Economic and Trade Risks: New Zealand’s global reputation for clean, safe, and GMO-free products is a key competitive advantage. Deregulation could undermine this, threatening organic and premium export markets.

  3. Consumer Choice and Transparency: Without traceability, consumers may lose the ability to choose non-GE or organic products, reducing market transparency and limiting freedom of choice.