Experimental releases of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
Experimental releases of GMOs fundamentally require a federal licence.
The Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) is responsible for issuing licences to release GMOs for experimental purposes. The Release Ordinance (Art. 7-11, 17-19, 22, 36-41 RO) regulates this procedure.
Applications should be submitted to the Biotechnology Section.
Authorisations
Information on applications, status of procedures, decisions; ongoing and completed experimental releases of GMOs.
B/CH/25/02 (B25002): Application to release a genetically modified potato strain with improved potato late blight resistance for experimental purposes
Submitted 9 December 2025
B/CH/24/01 (B24001): Application to release genetically modified wheat to select for pathogen resistances
Request authorised on November 5, 2024
B/CH/23/02 (B23002): Application to release genetically modified barley strains with increased yield potential
Request authorised on February 15, 2024
B/CH/22/01 (B22001): Application to release a genetically modified vaccine against avian influenza for experimental purposes
Request authorised on April 18, 2023
B/CH/20/02 (B20002): Application to release genetically modified wheat strains with improved mildew resistance for experimental purposes
Request authorised March 29, 2021
B/CH/18/04 (B18004): Application to release genetically modified barley strains with improved resistance against phytopathogenic fungi for experimental purposes
Request authorised June 12, 2019
B/CH/18/03 (B18003): Application to release genetically modified maize strains with improved resistance against phytopathogenic fungi for experimental purposes
Request authorised March 2, 2020
B/CH/18/01 (B18001): Application to release genetically modified wheat strains with improved mildew resistance for experimental purposes
Request authorised March 14, 2019
B/CH/15/01 (B15001): Application to release a genetically modified apple tree with improved fire blight resistance for experimental purposes
Request partially authorised April 29, 2016
Further information
Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN)
Biotechnology Section
3003 Bern