Stricter import rules for organic food on the horizon

Stricter rules are on the way for importing organic food from outside the EU. The European Parliament's agriculture committee approved new measures regarding certification. This decision aims to better protect European producers against unfair foreign competition. The change has direct consequences for the entire organic supply chain.  

A level playing field for importers

Importers may only use the European organic logo if they meet equivalent standards. They must also comply with specific EU production and control requirements. This is intended to boost consumer confidence and ensure fair competition. The adjustment follows a ruling by the European Court of Justice. Imported products under equivalence arrangements are no longer allowed to use the logo without meeting these criteria.  

Breathing room for small operators

Small sellers of unpackaged organic products will find it easier to keep their certification exemption. Due to rising prices, many small suppliers exceeded the current turnover threshold. The maximum turnover limit is therefore being raised from 20,000 euros to 25,000 euros per year. The maximum sales volume is being increased from 5,000 to 10,000 kilograms. Rules for housing fattening poultry are also changing. This should reduce administrative and logistical costs.  

Swift agreement is essential

Rapporteur Camilla Laureti stated regarding the new legislation: "My goal is to provide the sector with a stable regulatory framework that simplifies certain rules where possible, without overturning them after just a few years of implementation. It is a framework that maintains the quality and therefore the reputation of the sector, in Europe and globally, while respecting consumers."  

The current rules for importing organic food expire at the end of 2026. EU lawmakers therefore want to reach a final agreement before that deadline.  

Europarl.europa.eu