Organic equivalence arrangement signed with Japan

AN ORGANIC equivalence arrangement between Australia and Japan will allow the Asian nation to continue to enjoy Australian organic beef, dairy and processed foods.

Agriculture minister David Littleproud said the arrangement recognised Australia’s organic export regulation and negated significant regulatory barriers for organic livestock products to this market.

“Australia is known for its clean, green, world-class produce,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Japan is one of Australia’s most important markets for livestock products.

“The arrangement with Japan will provide Australian organic producers with the ability to provide Japanese consumers with livestock products labelled as organic, certified under the national standard for exported organic products.”

Mr Littleproud said the arrangement would maximise opportunities for more efficient, lower-cost and fair market access for Australian producers.

According to the government, the arrangement is the outcome of a multi-year negotiation process, and was completed despite the difficulties caused by COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Key facts

• On 9 July 2020 Australia signed an arrangement with Japan to recognise Australia’s export regulation for organic livestock products
• From 16 July organic livestock products (bovine, equine, ovine, caprine, poultry and porcine) imported into Japan will need to comply with the JAS Organic livestock standard or an organic system recognised as equivalent by Japan.

The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment regulates exported organic products to ensure that they meets the requirements of the department’s National Standard for Organic and Bio-Dynamic Produce.