Regulatory Changes in Organic Farming: What Farmers & Businesses Need to Know
Regulatory Changes in Organic Farming: What Farmers & Businesses Need to Know
Organic farming is undergoing significant regulatory transformations both globally and within Nigeria. These changes aim to enhance the integrity, transparency, and sustainability of organic agriculture. For farmers and businesses, staying informed about these developments is crucial for compliance and market competitiveness.
Global Regulatory Updates
In January 2022, the European Union implemented Regulation (EU) 2018/848, introducing comprehensive changes to organic production and labeling. This regulation emphasizes stringent controls throughout the supply chain, including production, processing, distribution, and retail.
Notably, it mandates that organic products imported into the EU comply with EU standards, affecting exporters worldwide. The regulation also redefines rules for group certification, impacting smallholder farmers in developing countries. While these measures aim to strengthen organic integrity, they pose challenges for small-scale producers regarding compliance and certification costs.
Read more at agriculture.ec.europa.eu
In the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) introduced the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) rule in March 2023. This update enhances oversight and enforcement of organic products' production, handling, and sale. Key updates include increased import oversight, improved farm-to-market traceability, and robust enforcement of organic regulations.
The SOE rule aims to bolster consumer and farmer confidence in the USDA organic seal by supporting strong organic control systems.
Read more at crsreports.congress.gov
Global Organic Farming Statistics
- Land Area: In 2022, the global organic farming area increased by over 20 million hectares, reaching 96 million hectares. (ifoam.bio)
- Number of Producers: The number of organic producers surpassed 4.5 million. (ifoam.bio)
- Market Value: Sales of organic food reached nearly 135 billion euros in 2022. (ifoam.bio)
- EU Organic Land: The total area under organic farming in the EU covered 16.9 million hectares in 2022, accounting for 10.5% of total agricultural land. (ec.europa.eu)
Nigeria's Regulatory Landscape
In Nigeria, the government is developing policies to enhance the organic agriculture sector. The National Organic Agriculture Policy aims to provide a national guide and regulatory framework for organic farming, processing, and marketing. This initiative is expected to position Nigeria as a leading organic producer in Africa.
Read more at atpsnet.org
However, certified organic farming in Nigeria is still in its early stages, with only 0.905% of arable land under organic cultivation.
Read more at link.springer.com
Implications for Farmers and Businesses
- Compliance Requirements: Farmers and businesses must adhere to stricter standards, including detailed record-keeping and transparent supply chains.
- Market Access: Aligning with international regulations can enhance access to lucrative markets, especially in the EU and the US.
- Support for Smallholders: Support mechanisms such as training and financial assistance are essential for small-scale farmers.
Recommendations
- Stay Informed: Regularly consult official publications from regulatory bodies.
- Invest in Training: Participate in training programs on organic farming compliance.
- Collaborate: Engage with industry associations to share resources and knowledge.
- Leverage Technology: Use digital tools for record-keeping and supply chain management.
By proactively adapting to these regulatory changes, farmers and businesses can ensure compliance, maintain market access, and contribute to the sustainable growth of organic agriculture.
