EU Ignites Battle Over Relaxed GMO Crop Rules in Green Push

The European Union unveiled proposals to soften rules on genetically modified crops in a plan that’s set to pit big agricultural companies against green activists and small farmers.

The measure, adopted under a broader package on biodiversity and food sectors, is aimed at making agri-food systems more sustainable and resilient, according to EU documents published Wednesday. Supporters such as Bayer AG say it’s needed to counter the effects of climate change, while detractors argue it will boost seed costs and hurt consumers.

The European Commission, the bloc’s regulatory arm, wants to relax rules on crops made with so-called new ...