NZ Introducing New Legislation to Lift 30-Year Ban on Gene Technology

“This legislative reform marks a major step forward in modernizing our gene technology laws,” Collins stated.

In a significant policy shift, the New Zealand Government is set to end its nearly 30-year ban on gene technology outside laboratory settings. Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins announced today that legislation to remove the ban and establish a dedicated regulator will be introduced to Parliament by the end of the year.

"This legislative reform marks a major step forward in modernizing our gene technology laws," Collins stated. "The changes will enhance health outcomes, address climate change, and drive substantial economic growth, benefiting all New Zealanders."

Currently, New Zealand's gene technology laws are more restrictive compared to those in countries like Australia, the UK, Canada, and many European nations. In 2020, New Zealand's biotech sector, which includes gene technology, generated $2.7 billion in revenue. The new legislation is expected to boost research and commercial development, improve access to advanced treatments like CAR T-cell therapy for cancer, and support agriculture by helping farmers reduce emissions and increase productivity.

The existing restrictive rules and lengthy approval processes have hampered research and development outside the lab, causing New Zealand to lag behind its global counterparts. The proposed changes aim to bring the country up to international best practices, enabling it to fully leverage the benefits of gene technology.

Modeled after Australia's Gene Technology Act 2000, the new legislation will create a regulatory body to oversee gene technology applications, ensuring that scientific advancement is balanced with robust protections for human health and the environment. This move aligns with commitments made in the Government's coalition agreements and the Prime Minister's Q3 Plan.

Collins expressed her pride in advancing these reforms, aiming for the legislation to be passed and the regulator operational by the end of 2025.