Unlocking innovation: UK secondary legislation on precision breeding

The primary legislation, passed in 2023, legally defined precision-bred organisms (PBOs) as distinct from genetically modified organisms (GMOs), enabling faster routes to market for gene-edited crops. Secondary legislation – the nuts and bolts – was essential to make the law operational.

These regulations set a clear, proportionate pathway for innovators to responsibly develop and commercialise precision-bred products.

Farming Futures R&D Fund: Precision Breeding

On 5 May 2025, Defra and Innovate UK, through the Farming Innovation Programme, opened a funding opportunity: Farming Futures R&D Fund: Precision Breeding (closes 25 June 2025).

• Up to £12.5 million in funding for collaborative R&D projects to unlock the benefits of precision breeding
• Deliver on ambitious new solutions that can help realise a range of improvements to existing crop production in England
• Demonstrate clear project deliverables that will enable improved resilience, sustainability and productivity of farmers in England
• Align with national priorities for food security, net zero agriculture, and sustainable land use.

The timing of this competition is no coincidence. It demonstrates a concerted effort to translate regulatory reform into economic and scientific momentum. With legal certainty now in place, UK researchers and companies are better positioned to lead in precision breeding to tackle challenges from climate-resilient crops to reduced productivity.

As the UK continues to establish itself as a global leader in agricultural genomics and engineering biology, the combination of forward-thinking legislation and strategic investment will be critical. The secondary legislation ensures safety and accountability, while the Farming Innovation Programme competition catalyses real-world innovation.

For researchers, breeders, and agri-tech entrepreneurs, the message is clear: now is the time to act.

Author: Paul Laniran, Innovation Lead, Innovate UK