{"id":98086,"date":"2024-12-16T10:39:13","date_gmt":"2024-12-16T09:39:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bioecoactual.com\/?p=98086"},"modified":"2024-12-16T10:40:00","modified_gmt":"2024-12-16T09:40:00","slug":"smallholders-need-support-to-adapt-new-organic-regulation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bioecoactual.com\/en\/2024\/12\/16\/smallholders-need-support-to-adapt-new-organic-regulation\/","title":{"rendered":"Smallholders need support to adapt to new organic regulation"},"content":{"rendered":"

The new EU organic regulation redefines the rules for international organic production destined for the EU and Swiss market. FiBL now presents the results of an international study on the regulation\u2019s impact on smallholder supply chains<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"Smallholders<\/p>\n

The main opportunities are enhanced integrity, transparency and consistent organic standards. However, many smallholder supply chains struggle to adapt to the fundamental changes and risk being excluded from access to the European organic market. The study recommends that policymakers and industry leaders provide targeted support to ease the transition<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The new Organic Regulation: significant changes<\/h2>\n

The new Organic Regulation (EU) 2018\/848<\/strong> introduces significant changes to organic imports, aiming to enhance organic integrity. From 1 January 2025, organic imports from most third countries\u2014except those recognized as equivalent by the EU and Switzerland\u2014must fully “comply” with EU rules. Audits to verify compliance have only recently begun, so most 2024 certificates remain under the previous system of “equivalence”. These certificates will be accepted only under specific conditions and no later than 15 October 2025.<\/p>\n

The regulation defines new rules for certification of smallholder farmers as a “group of operators”. This has consequences for around 1800-2000 producer groups with about 1 million small-scale producers in not-recognized third countries, which are estimated to currently supply the European market. The changes will impact a wide range of organic products as coffee, cocoa, rice, spices, bananas, coconut products, dried fruits and nuts.<\/p>\n

The study recommends that policymakers and industry leaders provide targeted support to ease the transition<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

More consistent standards<\/h3>\n

The revised regulation promises benefits such as a harmonized framework that levels the playing field for all operators, promoting clearer and more consistent organic standards. For organic producer groups that can adapt to the new requirements, there is potential for enhanced market access and stronger consumer trust in the organic label. Many stakeholders, including 40 percent of surveyed third-country producers and traders, view this regulatory clarity as an opportunity to fortify organic practices and maintain quality.<\/p>\n

Struggle for compliance<\/h4>\n

However, the study highlights serious concerns for smallholder farmers and export-oriented producer groups that may struggle to comply with the new EU requirements. Key challenges include:<\/p>\n