Movement in European policies
The consequences associated with climate change pose ever-increasing challenges for agriculture. Against this backdrop, the targeted use of new breeding methods such as Genome Editing is becoming increasingly important. Europe, known for its stringent GMO regulations, has recently shown a more favorable stance toward this topic. In case an upcoming policy shift provides institutional support for European seed companies to adopt these innovative technologies, even more favorable conditions for the collaboration between KWS and Shunfeng Bio would be in place.
New tools for advanced plant breeding
In the field of new breeding methods, the development of CRISPR technologies has long been a strategic high ground. Through continuous innovation, Shunfeng Bio has successfully and independently developed a series of patented gene editing enzymes—CRISPR Cas-SF01 and CRISPR Cas-SF02—, achieving a breakthrough in the field of plant biotechnology.
Currently, Shunfeng Bio’s gene editing technologies have been validated in over 70 laboratories and enterprises worldwide, earning broad industry recognition.
The collaboration with KWS marks the first time Shunfeng Bio’s independently developed foundational gene editing technology has been globally licensed for all crop types, representing a significant milestone for the company.
Dr. Guofu Li, CTO and Vice President of Technology at Shunfeng Bio, states: “This collaboration with KWS is a landmark achievement. The agreement covers global licensing for all crop types, reflecting international recognition of our technologies and laying a solid foundation for global market expansion. Leveraging KWS’s deep expertise in the global seed industry and Shunfeng Bio’s leading edge in gene editing, the partnership will accelerate the development of innovative breeding material, offering farmers worldwide higher-yielding and more resilient crop varieties, and jointly promoting sustainable agricultural development.”
Co-Creation for innovative agriculture
This partnership pioneers a new model of international collaboration. Shunfeng Bio contributes advanced gene editing technologies, while KWS brings its global market channels and breeding experience. Together, the aim is to drive the development and commercialization of innovative crop varieties.
Both parties expressed their commitment to leveraging complementary strengths to build an innovation-driven ecosystem, offering new solutions for a sustainable and future-oriented global agriculture.
Dr. Thomas Ehrhardt, Head of Global Research & Services at KWS, states: “This is the right time to accelerate our innovation platform for applying new breeding methods. KWS seeks to be ready to bring research projects already underway to market maturity quickly, once the European market adapts a more favorable regulation. This way, we can support farmers in Europe facing the challenges of agriculture, now and in future. With Shunfeng Bio, we trust to have a competent partner supporting this strategy”.