Canada Added to a Growing List of Countries Regulating Cibus' Gene Editing Technologies Similar to Conventional Breeding

Core Viewpoint - Cibus, Inc. welcomes the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's updated feed guidelines, which clarify the regulatory approach for new plant varieties developed through gene editing, aligning with a product-based regulation similar to conventional breeding [1][3]. Group 1: Regulatory Developments - The CFIA's guidelines signify Canada's commitment to a science-based regulatory framework for gene-edited plants, enhancing clarity for the agri-food industry and fostering innovation and investment [3]. - Canada joins a growing list of countries, including the UK and EU, that recognize gene editing technologies like Cibus' RTDS as equivalent to conventional breeding in terms of safety [2][3]. Group 2: Cibus Technology and Innovations - Cibus' Rapid Trait Development System™ (RTDS) utilizes a high-throughput breeding process known as the Trait Machine™, which allows for precise gene editing without integrating foreign DNA [5][6]. - The RTDS platform is designed to enhance productivity and sustainability in agriculture, addressing significant challenges such as diseases and pests, which cost the global economy approximately $300 billion annually [9]. Group 3: Commercialization and Partnerships - Cibus is advancing towards the commercialization of its Pod Shatter Reduction trait in canola, which aims to provide durable yield protection for Canadian growers [4]. - The company collaborates with seed companies to integrate its gene editing technologies into their breeding programs, facilitating the development of specific traits in elite germplasm [8]. Group 4: Market Position and Future Prospects - Cibus is positioned as a leader in gene-edited productivity traits, focusing on major global row crops such as canola, corn, rice, soybean, and wheat, with a pipeline of five productivity traits in various stages of development [9]. - The Trait Machine process has been recognized as one of the most innovative products in 2024, highlighting Cibus' role in advancing agricultural biotechnology [7].