Regulatory approvals for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the European Union differentiate between alternative uses and remain particularly controversial in the case of cultivation.While some Member States cultivate GM crops others have banned them.One of the suggested solutions includes nationalizing the approval process,which—depending on its implementation—might offer a solution over the current deadlock situation.Irrespectively,the increased use of new GMOs in many parts of the world,along with a mired regulatory approval process for imports of GMOs in the European Union,promise an increasing incidence of regulatory asynchronicity and structural trade disruptions.Reforms are needed that go beyond the current debate of nationalizing the approval process.The implications of asynchronous approval processes for international trade may also affect other countries and could require a solution at an international level.