Members of the European Parliament have backed plans to tighten rules on organic food imports, simplify requirements for small producers and strengthen consumer
confidence in the EU organic label.
The European Parliament’s Agriculture and Rural Development Committee approved its position on updating EU rules covering organic production, labelling, certification and trade. The proposal was passed by 37 votes in favour, four against and eight abstentions.
Under the new approach, products imported from outside the EU would only be allowed to carry the EU organic logo if they meet standards considered equivalent to those required from European producers, along with additional production and inspection requirements.
MEPs said the changes were designed to prevent unfair competition from overseas suppliers and ensure consumers can trust the organic label.
The EU’s green organic logo is one of the most recognised food labels among Europeans, according to a 2024 Eurobarometer survey. It helps shoppers identify organic products and allows producers to market them across the bloc.
Higher thresholds for small organic businesses
The committee also agreed to expand exemptions from certification rules for small operators selling unpackaged organic goods directly to consumers.
Currently, producers can avoid full certification if they remain below certain turnover and sales limits. However, rising prices have pushed some small businesses above the existing thresholds, forcing them to comply with additional requirements.
MEPs backed increasing the annual turnover limit from €20,000 to €25,000 and raising the maximum sales volume from 5,000 kilograms to 10,000 kilograms.
The move is intended to reduce administrative pressure on small organic farms and businesses while keeping safeguards in place.
Changes to livestock rules
The proposals also include adjustments to rules governing poultry housing, particularly facilities used for fattening birds and providing outdoor access.
MEPs said the changes would reduce unnecessary administrative and logistical costs while maintaining standards for organic farming.
Camilla Laureti, the committee’s rapporteur from the Socialists and Democrats group, said the aim was to provide the sector with a stable regulatory framework while simplifying rules where possible.
“My goal is to provide the sector with a stable regulatory framework that simplifies certain rules where possible, without overturning them after just a few years of implementation,” she said.
She added that the rules should preserve the quality and reputation of European organic production while respecting consumer expectations.
Negotiations with EU governments ahead
The committee also approved opening negotiations with EU member states on the final legislation, with 40 votes in favour, eight against and one abstention.
The updated rules will now need approval from the European Parliament as a whole before talks with the EU Council begin.
The two institutions are aiming to reach a final agreement before the end of 2026, when current rules governing organic food imports are due to expire.
The review follows a 2024 ruling by the European Court of Justice, which found that imported products recognised under certain equivalence agreements could not use the EU organic logo. The European Commission proposed changes to clarify the rules and avoid disruption to international trade.