The USDA plans to publish a new proposed rule in 2020 which will tighten certification requirements. This “Strengthening Organic Enforcement” proposed rule will close gaps in the supply chain by requiring more operations to be certified. It will primarily affect currently excluded importers, exporters, traders, and brokers. Retailers, storage facilities, and transporters remain exempt in the proposed rule.
When the proposed rule is published later this year, it will be open for a public comment period. After the final rule is published, the USDA anticipates a 12 month phase-in period for those who need to be certified.
If operations in your supply chain may be affected by the proposed changes, we encourage you to share information now and plan ahead to minimize disruptions.
- See the full text of the USDA April 2020 notice here.
- Sign up for the USDA Organic Insider newsletter to keep informed on the development of the new rules and other important updates.