Monday, 02 March 2020 09:05

Ag minister introduces organics bill to Parliament 

Written by  Staff Reporters
Agriculture minister Damien O’Connor. Agriculture minister Damien O’Connor.

A bill aiming to create a national standard for organic products will be considered by Parliament.

The Organic Products Bill, introduced by agriculture minister Damien O’Connor, provides a framework for the development of standards for all organic products in New Zealand.

It sets requirements for all businesses involved in the production through to the sale of organic products, with the sole exception of retailers of pre-packaged products.

The Government says the purpose of the bill is to:

• increase consumer confidence in the purchasing of organic products,

• increase certainty for businesses making organic claims,

• facilitate international trade in organic products.

Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) has been working with the Government and MPI to introduce the legislation for the past two years.

The national representative of the organic sector says it is delighted about the bill’s introduction to Parliament. 

“It’s fantastic that the Government have recognised the importance of organics not only to the consumer but also to the overall economic security and future of farming in New Zealand,” says Chris Morrison, chair of OANZ.

“OANZ will be participating in the consultation process with Government to help ensure that we get regulations that meet the needs of all our members.” 

More like this

Labour Supports NZ/India FTA

National's decision to ‘dribble’ information about the NZ/India to Labour contributed to the delay in it deciding to supported the FTA.

Begging Bowl

OPINION: With export of livestock by sea dead in the water, opponents of the Gene Technology Bill think they can also force another U-turn from the Government.

Featured

Carrfields Marks 50 Years as Rural Health Programme Grows

Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.

Taupiri Farmers Chase Ownership After Awards Success

For Taupiri dairy farmers Logan and Sian Dawson, their involvement in the NZ Dairy Industry Awards has been a key catalyst in the growth of their business - the experience helping shape how they approach the farm ownership pathway they are pursuing today.

Ballance Urges Farmers to Plan Ahead for El Niño

With forecasters advising El Niño conditions will develop through winter and strengthen into spring and summer, Ballance Agri-Nutrients is encouraging farmers and growers to think ahead about nutrient planning and be prepared to work around challenging weather conditions.

National

Machinery & Products

» Latest Print Issues Online

The Hound

'LinkedIn Greens'

OPINION: The same mainstream media muppets that brought you Jacindamania in 2017 have been flat out pimping for the Opportunities…

UK Warning

OPINION: Your old mate reckons the atrocious way farmers in the UK are treated by their lords and masters in…

» Connect with Rural News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter