Paris, France
July 31, 2026
Vilmorin & Cie, the seed activities of Limagrain, and leading genome editing player Beijing Qi Biodesign Biotechnology Co., Ltd. ("Qi Biodesign") today announced a global licensing agreement granting Vilmorin & Cie access to a portfolio of genome editing technologies for field and vegetable crops. This collaboration agreement marks a new milestone in Vilmorin & Cie’s strategy to expand into next-generation breeding technologies and reinforce its leadership in crop innovation.
Leveraging the full potential of genome editing
Genome editing is emerging as one of the most transformative innovations in modern plant breeding. While first-generation CRISPR technologies have already demonstrated their value, the next phase of crop improvement will increasingly depend on access to a diverse portfolio of complementary tools, each suited to specific crop, trait and breeding challenges.
Through this agreement, Vilmorin & Cie gains access to a portfolio of foundational and advanced genome editing technologies developed by Qi Biodesign. It includes immediate access to a novel and differentiating CRISPR nuclease and establishes a framework for Vilmorin & Cie to benefit from future innovations emerging from Qi Biodesign's research pipeline.
These technologies will expand the range of solutions available to Vilmorin & Cie’s research programs, creating new opportunities to address complex breeding challenges and accelerate the development of improved crop varieties.
A timely opportunity for European agriculture
The agreement comes at a crucial moment for European agriculture, as the European Union moves towards an updated regulatory framework for New Genomic Techniques (NGTs).
By combining high-performing germplasm, breeding tools and genome-editing, technologies, Vilmorin & Cie is further enhancing its ability to translate scientific advances into practical solutions for farmers facing climate change, increasing disease pressures, resource constraints and growing sustainability expectations.
A strategic partnership to deliver innovative solutions for agriculture
Building on Qi Biodesign's leadership in genome-editing innovation, its cutting-edge scientific expertise and its strong ties with leading academic institutions, the agreement further strengthens Vilmorin & Cie's position as a trusted player in advanced breeding technologies. It also highlights the diverse ecosystem of technologies and expertise that will shape the future of genome editing to deliver value for farmers and support more sustainable agricultural systems.
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