Hélène Guillot, Managing Director of the ACLP, joined the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) for the launch of their new podcast series The NGT Briefing. This first episode focuses on intellectual property rights (IPR) – a central topic in the ongoing trilogue negotiations on the EU’s New Genomic Techniques (NGT) file.
In her intervention, Hélène provided an overview of the main forms of intellectual property protection available to plant breeders. She explained the role of plant variety protection, with its breeders’ exemption, and highlighted patents as an important tool to share innovation across the sector.
The discussion also touched on the EU Council’s proposal for a voluntary online disclosure system for NGT patents. Hélène reminded listeners that the PINTO database already exists as a voluntary platform for companies to display which varieties contain patented traits. In addition, she underlined that the private seed sector initiative – the ACLP – currently gathers around 95% of patented traits in agricultural crops – a strong example of transparency and collaboration within the sector.
When asked about the potential global impact of the EU’s IP approach, Hélène stressed that restrictive rules could push companies to move their scientific research outside of Europe.
If breeders in Europe cannot access the new tools available elsewhere, while other regions are expanding the toolbox of plant breeding, Europe risks falling behind,” she said. “Our farmers will be left without the right seeds to meet their needs. With climate change, new pests, and emerging diseases, we urgently need seeds adapted to droughts and other challenges. Without access to innovation, Europe’s competitiveness – and its farmers – will suffer.”
Hélène Guillot, ACLP Managing Director
Watch the full episode of The NGT Briefing below.
#EnablingInnovation
