Government confirms major genetic engineering law reform: the implications for New Zealand

In a significant policy shift, the New Zealand Government has announced its intention to overhaul the country’s genetic engineering (GE) laws, marking an end to a 30-year moratorium on the use of gene technology outside laboratories. Judith Collins, New Zealand’s Minister of Science, Innovation, and Technology, confirmed that legislation to lift the ban on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) will be introduced to Parliament by the end of 2024. This new legislation is expected to align New Zealand’s regulatory framework with global standards, taking cues from Australia’s Gene Technology Act 2000.

This legislative reform is a critical development for New Zealand's biotechnology sector, which generated NZD2.7 billion in revenue in 2020. Collins emphasised that the current restrictions have hindered the country's ability to fully leverage advancements in gene technology. The reform will not only enable local researchers to advance their work but also support the commercialisation of new products in sectors such as agriculture, forestry, and medicine, including cutting-edge treatments like CAR T-cell therapy (a form of which is already in phase-2 clinical trials at the Malaghan Institute).

For businesses and legal professionals, the upcoming changes present both opportunities and challenges. The new regulatory environment will introduce a tiered risk management system, where higher-risk genetic modifications will be subject to strict oversight, while lower-risk activities could be exempt from regulation. Companies engaged in biotechnology, agriculture, and related sectors must prepare to navigate this evolving landscape, which will likely involve new compliance requirements and operational adjustments. Exporters will also need to be conscious of the effects of this regime on New Zealand's previous "GMO-free" status.

This legislative reform signals New Zealand’s commitment to embracing innovation and competing on a global stage in biotechnology. As the country prepares to adopt these changes, stakeholders should remain proactive in understanding and adapting to the new regulatory framework.

We recommend that organisations begin assessing their current and future projects to ensure they align with the forthcoming regulations and are poised to capitalise on all potential opportunities. Understanding the nuances of the proposed law will be crucial for mitigating risks and capitalising on the new opportunities that genetic engineering technologies present. Our team is closely monitoring the legislative process and stands ready to provide guidance as the details of the reform become clearer.