Copa-Cogeca acknowledge the publication of the European Commission’s proposal amending selected provisions of the EU organic framework, focusing on regulatory clarification, fit-for-future changes and improved workability, while preserving the integrity of the organic system. It aligns with recent exchanges and introduces a very limited number of targeted changes. While it addresses well-identified practical challenges faced by organic farmers and agri-cooperatives, we regret that many of Copa-Cogeca’s recommendations remain unaddressed at basic act level, and the future changes in secondary legislation are still unclear.
Copa-Cogeca believes that the reopening of the basic act should be targeted in scope to allow for a swift legislative process. Still, we regret that this opportunity was not used to address more critical issues that could be solved with change in the basic act. For instance, the Commission has missed the chance to include initiatives that could level the playing field for organic broilers by moving towards more harmonisation of slow growing strains; or to solve the current interpretation issue which limits partial coverage of outdoor areas for pigs against health and welfare recommendations.
The targeted nature of the reopening should not prevent necessary changes in other organic animal husbandry sectors, notably pigs and ruminants, as well as plant production. Balanced improvements across all organic production systems are essential, as organic plant and livestock production are inherently interdependent.
Regarding international trade, Copa-Cogeca considers the extension of equivalence deadlines necessary to ensure trade stability during the transition. However, an extension of ten years might be too long, and must in any case be accompanied by a clear and credible roadmap to ensure timely renegotiation of agreements, based on clear priorities reflecting trade flows.
The Commission has also published a staff working document that provides a useful overview of expected impacts and the consultation process. We regret that some critical challenges identified, such as access to adequate organic protein feed for monogastrics, are not addressed immediately
Fonte: Copa-Cogeca
