The European Parliament has reached an agreement to update the rules for organic production, with hopes to 'accommodating the needs' of a sector which is 'growing'.
Following the decisive meeting, EU Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan said a 'successful conclusion' was reached on the Organics Regulation.
Improvements include; increased development and access to seeds and animals; uniform standards for import controls on organic products; measures to reduce pesticide contamination and fraud, and; steps to improve soil health.
"We believe that the new legislative framework will match the dynamism and expectations of this fast-growing sector, support its development and its capacity to innovate and help it reach its full potential," Mr Hogan said.
After more than three years of negotiation, the agreement will remove obstacles to the sustainable development of organic production in the EU.
Mr Hogan said this will guarantee fair competition for farmers and operators, while also improving controls and consumer confidence.
'Excellent result'
Greens have today welcomed the agreement to improve EU agriculture regulations in support of organic farming.
Oliver Dowding, the Green Party's Agriculture spokesperson, said: "In times of great uncertainty, not least for organic farmers, this excellent result in the EU provides much-sought clarity for producers and will increase confidence for consumers.
"I completely agree with the rapporteur, Martin Hausling, that organic agriculture needs to be seen as the future for all of agriculture.
"With creative policies for agriculture, and throughout the food chain, we can dispel myths and fears that organic farming cannot feed the population sufficiently and healthily at all times."
