Key barrier to UK organic exports removed

Wednesday, 2 December 2020

By Patty Clayton

It has been reported that the EU has agreed to recognise UK organic certifying bodies for a 12-month period from the end of the transition period on 31 December 2020. Pending approval of the draft legislation by the Commission this week, this would mean UK organic products could continue to trade in EU markets as organic.

Prior to this development, there was a risk that UK organic products would not be recognised in the EU as a reciprocal agreement had not been reached by the two trading partners. To avoid a complete lack of access, UK certifying bodies had previously applied individually to be approved under EU regulations.

For dairy, around 10% of organic milk production was destined for EU markets in 2019.

While there is still no clarity on a deal with the EU, and whether tariffs will apply on imports from the UK, this agreement removes a significant hurdle for trade in organic products. However, there will still be additional administrative and licensing requirements regardless of the final outcome of trade talks.


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