New Genomic Techniques (NGT) – Reinventing Plant Breeding
Behind the technical acronym NGT, for New Genomic Techniques, lies a true evolution in plant breeding. Faster than traditional crossing, more precise than chemical mutagenesis, and above all achieved without inserting foreign genes, this technology pushes the boundaries of innovation and agronomic performance.
Since December 2025, the European Commission, the Council and the European Parliament have reached a provisional agreement paving the way for a regulatory framework allowing their use, with the aim of strengthening the competitiveness, sustainability and sovereignty of agricultural and food sectors.
Targeted modifications, comparable to nature
NGTs make it possible to introduce targeted genetic modifications, similar to mutations that could occur naturally, without adding genes from other species. Imagine correcting a few letters in a text — that’s exactly how a tool like CRISPR works on DNA. The result? A plant that expresses the desired trait from the very first generation, with unprecedented precision.
Unlike traditional methods, which rely on multiple rounds of crossing or exposure to chemical agents to generate thousands of random mutations, NGTs precisely target the gene to be modified. This allows us to work directly on specific genes associated with traits of interest (disease resistance, tolerance to drought or heat, nutritional value, etc.), more quickly and with greater accuracy.
A valuable asset in the face of climate change
As climate conditions become increasingly unpredictable, producers need resilient and high-performing varieties. NGTs make it possible to create such plants faster and with exceptional precision, offering effective solutions to real‑world challenges. They provide targeted, crop‑specific adaptations and will be a major asset for securing yields and optimizing agricultural practices.
“NGTs represent a major breakthrough for plant breeding. These technologies, complementing existing tools, will enhance our ability to offer solutions tailored to the evolving needs of agriculture, with greater precision and within timelines that match field realities.”
Benoît Pétiard, Head of R&D – MAS Seeds
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You may have noticed the mention “Act for Regenerative Agriculture” displayed on MAS Seeds seed bags of maize.This wording aims to make visible, directly on our products, our commitment in favor of regenerative agriculture. Why talk about regenerative agriculture today? For over fifteen years, farmers have faced stagnant and unstable yields in many agricultural regions. The progressive degradation of […]
🎯 Business ambition: Significantly accelerate our development in the region, with a growth trajectory over the next 2 to 3 years but to get there, the challenge isn’t only commercial, it’s also technical and industrial. 🔑 The 2 key steps of our development: Our belief: Sustainable growth in West Africa means building as close as […]
MAS Seeds® is committed to supporting farmers in their transition and in reducing its own carbon footprint through the use of regenerative agriculture practices. Find a product Discover a full range of maize portfolio for all uses grain, silage or biogas, for organic agriculture, for temperate or tropical regions. Contact us Our local teams visit […]
Discover other news and media
You may have noticed the mention “Act for Regenerative Agriculture” displayed on MAS Seeds seed bags of maize.This wording aims to make visible, directly on our products, our commitment in favor of regenerative agriculture. Why talk about regenerative agriculture today? For over fifteen years, farmers have faced stagnant and unstable yields in many agricultural regions. The progressive degradation of […]
🎯 Business ambition: Significantly accelerate our development in the region, with a growth trajectory over the next 2 to 3 years but to get there, the challenge isn’t only commercial, it’s also technical and industrial. 🔑 The 2 key steps of our development: Our belief: Sustainable growth in West Africa means building as close as […]
MAS Seeds® is committed to supporting farmers in their transition and in reducing its own carbon footprint through the use of regenerative agriculture practices. Find a product Discover a full range of maize portfolio for all uses grain, silage or biogas, for organic agriculture, for temperate or tropical regions. Contact us Our local teams visit […]