Organic Regulation Updates
BioGro has been working hard, alongside other leads within the Organic Sector to see an official standard and regulations implemented. Organic Regulation is now coming to New Zealand. We aim to keep you as informed as possible throughout the process.
Organic Products and Production Bill - A government bill that has been proposed to New Zealand’s legislature. A bill will not become law until it is passed by the legislature. The Bill provides a framework and allows for the development of regulations and standards.
The Bill has now passed its third reading in Parliament as of 30 March 2023
Organic Regulation - A rule of order having the force of law, prescribed by a superior or competent authority, relating to the actions of those under the authority’s control. Regulation describes the process that will need to be followed by businesses, recognised agencies and MPI.
Now available to review
Organic Standards - Describe the specific requirements that must be verified by an accredited certifying agent before products can be labelled as organic. Standards will set rules for products labelled or advertised as organic, such as production methods, and any requirements that are specific to the products covered by the standard.
Now available to review
Concerns for Current Proposed Bill
The Organic Products Bill has now been presented to The House of Representatives and is no longer with the Primary Production Committee. The full report can be accessed on the Parliament Website.
Based on the report available, the sector still have some major concerns with the recommendations put forward. BioGro is currently providing comment with other sector leads to ensure these are consolidated and escalated accordingly.
The Committee’s recommendations are now to be debated by The House of Representatives.
MPI Request for Support Requirements
The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) are actively requesting feedback from the organic sector of how they can further support organic operators and improve market access. BioGro is one of many organisations that put forward our support to see the implementation of a National Regulation and Standards.
Extension for Submissions
1st April 2020
Due to Covid-19, the public submissions for the Organic Products Bill has been extended to the 28th May.
A ‘Digest’ describing the Bill has been made available to read - we advise you read this before making any submissions.
Calling for Public Submissions
The introduced Organics Product Bill passed its first reading, with all in favour of the bill going ahead.
It is now time to do your part, and its crucial for everyone within the organic sector to get involved. The Chairperson of the Primary Production Committee, Hon David Bennett, is calling for public submissions on the Organics Products Bill.
The Organic Products Bill and all associated documents are available to download on the New Zealand Parliament website. We advise you to read through these documents carefully and focus on key areas specific to your own operation.
Due to Covid-19, the public comment regarding the Organic Regulation itself has been postponed due to current circumstances
Organic Products Bill introduced to Parliament
Agriculture and Food Safety Minister, Damien O’Connor has announced that he has introduced the Organics Products Bill to Parliament and if passed, will create a national standard for organics.
Confirmed National Standard for Organic Production
Agriculture and Food Safety Minister, Damien O’Connor has confirmed that a National Standard for Organic Production WILL be progressed as a Government bill next year
Key Information
The BioGro team have prepared a few links and information that we believe may be helpful to you. These are to read and utilise at your own discretion;
- Ministry of Primary Industries – This page brings together all government information regarding the proposed regulation and all relevant dates.
If you have any queries, feel free to contact BioGro and we will do our very best to help you.