Copa-Cogeca acknowledged the European Commission’s proposal to amend selected provisions of the EU organic framework, noting that it focuses on regulatory clarification, fit-for-future adjustments, and improved workability while preserving the integrity of the organic system. The organisation said the proposal reflects recent discussions and introduces only a very limited number of targeted changes. While it addresses some well-known practical challenges faced by organic farmers and agri-cooperatives, Copa-Cogeca expressed regret that many of its recommendations were not taken up at the level of the basic act, and that potential future changes in secondary legislation remain unclear.
Copa-Cogeca said it supports keeping the reopening of the basic act narrowly focused to enable a swift legislative process. However, it criticised the proposal for missing the opportunity to address several key issues that could be resolved directly through changes to the basic act. The organisation pointed, for example, to the lack of measures to level the playing field for organic broiler production by moving toward greater harmonisation of slow-growing strains. It also highlighted the ongoing interpretation issue that limits partial coverage of outdoor areas for pigs, which it said runs counter to health and welfare recommendations.
According to Copa-Cogeca, the targeted scope of the reopening should not prevent needed reforms in other organic animal husbandry sectors—particularly pigs and ruminants—as well as in plant production. It stressed that balanced improvements across all organic systems are essential because organic crop and livestock production are inherently interdependent.
On international trade, Copa-Cogeca said extending equivalence deadlines is necessary to ensure stability during the transition. However, it warned that a ten-year extension may be excessive and should be paired with a clear and credible roadmap for renegotiating agreements in a timely manner. It added that priorities should be defined based on trade flows to ensure the process remains focused and effective.
Copa-Cogeca also welcomed the Commission’s accompanying staff working document, describing it as a useful overview of expected impacts and the consultation process. At the same time, it regretted that some major challenges identified — such as access to sufficient organic protein feed for monogastrics — are still not being addressed immediately.
