Genetic transformation (since 1995) and gene editing (since 2015) have opened up new possibilities for potato improvement, beyond what can be achieved by conventional breeding. They should make valuable contributions to increasing potato production and the nutritional value of potatoes, and hence to the role of potatoes in providing food security during a period of climate change. Genetic transformation introduces one or more desired genes into the potato genome by combining naturally occurring processes with the genetic engineering of bacterial plasmids for use as vectors of the genes. The result is a genetically modified (GM) crop, also sometimes referred to as a biotech crop. In many countries, adoption of such crops has been delayed because politicians, pressure groups and the general public still need to be convinced that GM crops are not only safe to grow and eat but are also of real benefit to both farmers and consumers. Debates over regulation centre on whether the product or process should be regulated, whether or not the precautionary principle should apply, and the source(s) of the introduced gene(s). Gene editing should prove less controversial as it targets specific locations in the potato genome to make desired alterations to specific genes.