EU Reaches Provisional Agreement to Extend Organic Trade Equivalence and Ease Small Operator Rules
The EU Council and Parliament have reached a provisional deal extending organic trade equivalence with 11 countries to 2036 and doubling small operator exemptions.
Provisional Agreement on EU Organic Rules
On October 20, 2026, the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement to update measures governing organic production, labeling, certification, and trade. The legislative updates aim to refine the regulatory framework supporting organic farming within the European Union while providing immediate regulatory clarity and stability for international agricultural supply chains and trade partners.
Extension of Third-Country Organic Equivalence to 2036
A core element of the provisional agreement is the extension of organic equivalence recognition for 11 third countries. Trade partners including the United States, Canada, Argentina, and New Zealand will maintain their organic trade equivalence status with the European Union until December 31, 2036. This long-term extension ensures continued market access and reduces compliance uncertainty for agricultural exporters shipping organic commodities into the European market.
Reduced Administrative Burdens for Small Operators
In addition to international provisions, the updated regulations significantly reduce certification and administrative requirements for small-scale operators. The annual turnover threshold for small operator certification exemptions has been doubled, rising from €20,000 to €40,000, calculated on the basis of a five-year annual average. Concurrently, the annual sales volume threshold for small operator exemptions has also doubled, increasing from 5,000 kg to 10,000 kg. Furthermore, the updated rules extend small operator exemptions to include, under specific conditions, small online retailers selling pre-packed organic goods.
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