Follow the Progression of the Proposed GE Tech Bill

The proposed Gene Technology Bill puts GE-Free NZ in jeopardy. With OANZ leading the fight, find out what’s been happening and what’s the next step.  

New Zealand is on the verge of becoming one of the most deregulated countries in the world for genetic engineering (GE)/genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The government is pushing legislation to establish a new GE regime by the end of 2025.

Update 21 August 2025  

The Gene Tech Bill Sees Another Delay

The Health Select Committee has delayed the release of its report on the proposed Gene Technology Bill, pushing the deadline out to 10^th October 2025. This is the second delay, which illustrates the complexity of the issues involved and the need for careful consideration before decisions can be made.

Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) continues to request for independent government analysis to be conducted on the economic, health, environmental and cultural impacts of deregulating gene technology.  Without proper review, significant risks are going unchecked.

This extra time is a welcomed opportunity to ensure the serious concerns raised by farmers, exporters, scientists, Māori leaders, and consumers are properly considered. With gene-edited food deregulation also under review (FSANZ Proposal P1055), this is a critical crossroads for the future of food in New Zealand.

Update 31 July 2025  

The Gene Tech Bill Report Delayed

Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) has welcomed news from Parliament that the Health Select Committee has extended its reporting deadline on the controversial Gene Technology Bill from 31 July to 22 August 2025.

While no official explanation for the delay has been given, OANZ views the extension as a positive sign that the widespread concerns raised by farmers, exporters, scientists, and consumers are being taken seriously.

“This extension reflects that the issues at stake are complex, contested, and critical to New Zealand’s food future,” said OANZ Chief Executive Tiffany Tompkins.

The organisation is calling on the government to ensure any final legislation protects:

1. The right to farm GE-free
2. Consumer choice and transparent labelling
3. New Zealand’s global reputation and market access

Update 1 July 2025  

GMO Foods Could go Unlabeled Under New Trans-Tasman Proposal

Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) is warning that a new proposal from Trans-Tasman food regulator, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) would allow GMOs to enter our food system without labelling, safety checks, or traceability.

The proposal could make Australia the first country globally to deregulate both plants and animals without oversight. New Zealand is expected to follow.

Resources & Further Information  

For an easy-to-read overview check out our blog The GE Bill and What You Need to Know.

OANZ (Organic Aotearoa New Zealand) is the umbrella organization that looks after the entire organic sector in NZ. OANZ has worked hard to get in front of parliament and give a voice to the organic industry.

OANZ provides a handy Activation Toolkit, designed to help you effectively participate in the campaign against the Gene Tech Bill.