Gene editing is poised to reshape the New Zealand primary sector by enabling adaptation to climate change, enhancing environmental sustainability, and boosting productivity.

Advancements in faster, safer, and more precise gene editing techniques have prompted proposals for new legislation to align New Zealand’s gene technology regulations with those of key trading partners. A balanced approach is needed, harnessing scientific innovation while maintaining public trust and market access.

Gene editing can transform parts of the agricultural value chain, especially scientific research, the biotech sector, and plant breeding. In other areas, its impact may be incremental and take time to reach meaningful scale. Therefore, managing expectations is critical so stakeholders maintain realistic views of both its benefits and limitations. Independent government and primary sector research will be important for ongoing monitoring and transparent reporting.

As New Zealand develops a regulatory framework, it has the chance to embed Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. This would broaden assessment criteria beyond standard safety and risk to include economic, societal, and environmental impacts. Though this approach would require more intensive, case-by-case evaluations from regulators and applicants, it could increase trust among the public, the sector, and international trade partners.

Leadership from the primary sector is necessary to ensure agricultural impacts and opportunities are prioritised in regulation. Coordinated strategy frameworks for gene technology will help map innovation pipelines, risks, opportunities, and commercialisation timelines.

Early engagement with stakeholders, including government, sector bodies, farmers, growers, Māori, and the public is essential. These discussions should be grounded in relatable examples to support informed public opinion, rather than dictated by a top-down expert model. It is also important to acknowledge and respect those who oppose regulatory changes.

Driving innovation will require significant investment, supported by public-private partnerships and international collaboration. A key challenge lies in enhancing scientific capability and confidence, especially during uncertain times for the science sector.

New Zealand is encouraged to adopt a ‘fast follower’ approach to gene technology legislation, allowing it to benefit from scientific advancements while preserving public and trading partner trust. By navigating the adoption of gene editing carefully and inclusively, New Zealand can boost the primary sector’s productivity, sustainability, and global competitiveness.