The Government sought feedback on proposed changes to Aotearoa New Zealand’s legislation and regulations for genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This is when they are used in laboratory settings and for biomedical therapies.
For full details see Improving our GMO regulations for laboratory and biomedical research
The consultation closed on 25 August 2023.
The proposed changes respond to concerns from the research community that current GMO regulations are hindering research and innovation. They aim to remove barriers to foster research and improve health outcomes.
The proposed changes apply only to laboratory settings and the research and development of biomedical therapies. They would not alter the rules for field trials and releases of GMOs into the environment.
The current comprehensive approval processes undertaken by Medsafe for medicines and biomedical therapies will remain unchanged.
Minister's press release: Government proposes improved GMO regulations to encourage health research [Beehive website]
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