Stop Penalizing Breeders for Their Own Success

Written on 09/25/2025
Marcel Bruins - Seed World Europe Editorial Director

In a number of UPOV member countries, outdated interpretations of the novelty requirement mean that commercializing a hybrid variety may invalidate novelty for its parent lines — even if those lines were never sold. This misinterpretation undermines breeders’ rights, discourages innovation, and is out of step with global practice. It's time for legal clarity and alignment.

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