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Organic equivalency supports Canadian exports

Jan. 2, 2013, Ottawa, ON - Canadian organic producers will have increased opportunities to export their products and Canadian families shopping for organic food will have more choices following an arrangement reached between Canada and Switzerland.

The Canada-Switzerland Organic Equivalency Arrangement is the outcome of an extensive analysis of both countries' production and certification systems. The arrangement will allow for easier import and export of certified organic products between Canada and Switzerland without the need for additional certification, thus reducing costs and red tape.

"This arrangement with Switzerland will eliminate trade barriers to give Canadian organic producers a competitive edge in the Swiss organic market," said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "Canadian consumers will also benefit by having increased access to Swiss organic food options."

Canada's Organic Products Regulations, 2009 came into force on June 30, 2009. For more information on Canada's organic products regulations and standards, please visit the CFIA website at: www.inspection.gc.ca

January 2, 2013  By CFIA