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1903

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24 November 2003

2003 quest. - Summary of question 11 responses

Question 11 from the "questions" document: The issue of "organic farming" has been raised, but no clear guidance can be given at this point to address this issue in an industry context. While the focus is often on organic products, the differentiation is clearly process-related. However, labelling guidelines may be different between countries. While "genetic modification" is clearly a concept in agriculture, it is not clear how boundary issues can be resolved, as practically any breeding is a form of genetic manipulation. In addition how would inadvertent modification, e.g. through seeds introduced from other areas (e.g. through wind) be treated? More definitional guidance is necessary if such a concept should be introduced.

Summary of responses to question 11: Support introduction of organic farming 4 replies Further study necessary 25 replies Against introduction of organic farming 10 replies * Other 6 replies * - the Afristat reply (18 countries) is counted as one The majority of the respondents take a "wait-and-see" position on the subject of organic farming (essentially followed by all EU countries). Pro: - The FAO is one of the supporters of introducing organic farming in ISIC. There is a definition in place, but its acceptance has to be verified. Further cooperation with FAO should clarify this issue. - One country states that it already introduced organic farming at a lower level of their classification. - The two remaining supporters see it only at a lower level of the classification. "Study": - 28 countries (incl. all EU) state that organic farming needs further research and that it should not be at a high level of the classification. Some indicate that the EU is working on definitions, but hat worldwide acceptance is needed. (Qu: Is FAO involved in this work or is EU developing its own worldwide definition?) - 8 countries consider organic farming as important, but want to see further studies done. Con: - The main reason for not supporting the concept of organic farming is that it is considered only as a different technique, not a different production process (7 replies). One reply suggested the use of an ancillary code for the distinction. - the remaining opposing replies cite general difficulties in introducing such a concept, the lack of a generally recognized definition (Afristat) and the argument that this should be reflected in the product classification, not the activity classification. The other replies stated: - no comment (3) - Organic farming should be in R&D (1) - Organic farming does not exist in the country (1) - the question is unclear and needs to be rephrased (1) The general problem with this question seems to be the lack of, or unawareness of, a clear definition of organic farming. This is also apparent in remarks referring to distinctions between "organic" and "ecological" farming or between "organic" and "genetic". Action suggested: - Get information from EU and FAO on work on definitions (incl. acceptance of any current versions and feasibility for identifying units) - Consider introduction of organic farming (for crops only?) at the lowest level of the classification