First companies receive accreditations under the Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme

Farming Minister, Jeff Rooker welcomed the news that the Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme, (FIAS) has fully accredited its first 3 Companies.

Over 75 fertiliser supply chain companies have applied to join the Scheme and the next approved accreditations are expected shortly . Jeff Rooker urged companies that have not yet applied to join FIAS to register as soon as possible.

FIAS was launched in January 2006 to address security concerns within the fertiliser supply chain. Anyone involved in the manufacture, importation, storage, merchanting or transport of fertiliser are encouraged to register with FIAS now. Failure to do so could result in alternative measures such as legislation to improve fertiliser safety, security and traceability issues.

David Stacey, AIC Fertiliser Sector Chairman, said "FIAS is a robust mechanism to ensure security from factory to farm. Although industry have now launched FIAS there is no room for complacency as Government are looking to us to embrace FIAS with enthusiasm."

"Manufactured fertiliser is a valuable product for farmers and growers," said Jeff Rooker. "But it is vital that the industry maintains robust control and traceability of fertilisers throughout the supply chain from manufacture or import right through to the end user. I encourage companies within the supply chain to 'do their bit' and join FIAS," he said.

Notes for Editors

FIAS was developed by government, stakeholder groups within the fertiliser industry and the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC). It covers the assurance of all fertilisers intended for agriculture, horticulture, forestry, amenity and any other commercial use.

The Scheme is open to all organisations involved in the manufacture, importation, storage, merchanting and transport of fertilisers. Companies that apply for registration will be added to the FIAS Register and will be subject to annual audit and certification.