Abstract A survey was made into the European database on field trials of genetically modified crops during 1991~2008 in order to reveal the characteristcs and trend in research and development of genetically modified plants. Results indicated that totally 2 352 field trials have been undertaken in 22 European member states during the last 18 years, with 83 species of crops involved．The most frequent trials have been found on four crop species, i.e., corn （Zea mays L.）, oilseed rape （Brassica napus L.）, potato （Solanum tuberosum L.） and beet（Beta vulgaris L.), amounting for 74% of the total trials. Four member states, France, Spain, Italy and the United Kingdom in order are most frequent in the trials．In addition, a comparison in the research and development characteristics and trend of genetically modified plants of the European union was made with the United States, Canada and among the European member states. A reference view was provided to the development of genetically modified crops in China.
