The nation’s leading body for the organic industry, Australian Organic Ltd (AOL), has welcomed the government’s proposed new draft rules regarding the regulation of organic exports, which will pave the way for potentially significant cost savings for organic producers and increased trade opportunities.

The new draft rules, set out by the Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment (DAWE), will be the first step in strengthening and simplifying the current framework.

“We applaud the Department on the proposed rules, and in particular the recognition of the National Standard as the export organic standard,” said Australian Organic Ltd CEO Niki Ford.

“We also commend them for their sound and sensible work on the new Draft Rules for Organic Goods, which have been written to align with the new Export Control Act for goods exported out of Australia.

“These rules will steer the way for significant cost savings for industry through their allowance for electronic export certificates and the appointment of external auditors.”

Ms Ford said the rules will meet relevant importing country requirements and comply with industry standards whilst remaining consistent with other draft rules for prescribed goods.

“We are thrilled organic produce will still be a prescribed good as this underpins the export market opportunities for all Australian Organic producers and manufacturers.”

Fran Freeman, Head of the Department’s Exports Division, said as the growing world-wide demand for high-quality organic agricultural produce is currently being well-met by Australian organic products, a fit-for-purpose regulatory system will enable organic operators to harness existing and further opportunities.

“We’re aiming to simplify these regulations and maximise market access opportunities for Australian producers and manufacturers, through efficient regulation,” Ms Freeman said.

“Organic operators – be they producers, processors or manufacturers – can consider and provide feedback on how to make our regulatory system work for them when it comes to exporting their goods. Ongoing industry consultation will be an important part of this reform process.”