A new system of electronic certification to better monitor imports of organic products in the EU will become enforced today.
The EU is seen to be a leader in traceability and in the collection of data on trade of organic products.
The new electronic certification system will contribute to enhancing food safety provisions and reducing potential fraud.
It is also hoped that the new system will reduce the administrative burden for operators and authorities, and provide more comprehensive statistical data on organic imports.
Both paper and e-certification will be used during a 6-month transition period. As of 19 October 2017, organic imports will be covered only by e-certification.
In practical terms, the changes will require the addition of these import certificates into the Trade Control & Expert System – the existing EU electronic system for tracking movements of food products across the EU.
The Trade Control & Expert System has been shown to facilitate trade by enabling trade partners and competent authorities to easily obtain information on the movements of their consignments, and speeding up administrative procedures.
It system also enables a rapid reaction to health threats by tracing the movements of consignments and facilitating the risk management of rejected consignments.
