Landmark Organic Legislation Passed by Parliament

Aotearoa’s organic community is celebrating the passing of landmark legislation this morning.

The Organic Products and Production Bill passed its 3rd reading on Thursday 30th of March.

“We’re delighted to see organics recognised in law. This has been many years in the making,” says Tiffany Tompkins, CEO of Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ), the peak body for the organic sector.

“The Organic Products and Production Act brings New Zealand a step closer to a robust and internationally recognised organic standard.

“The new law is driven by growing demand for organic products both here and overseas. Consumers want safe, healthy food with high animal welfare standards, that regenerates the land and waterways, and mitigates climate change. Organics ticks all those boxes. 

OANZ will continue to work with the Ministry for Primary Industries on the regulations that will underpin the Act, including a national organic standard.

“Having a national organic standard that’s recognised by government will help market access for exporters, to existing and new overseas markets,” said Ms Tompkins.

“It will also provide certainty for consumers in this country that what’s being labelled and sold as organic, meets this standard.”