Workshops
Future-Proofing Organic Farming: Improving Group Certification and ICS Compliance
(Navigating New EU Requirements Insights from Growers and Certifiers)
Introduction
Workshops are independently organised one or more sessions during the Organic World Congress. Workshops allow researchers, farmers, experts and students to meet face-to-face and have interactive discussions.
Workshops address various topics by extending the content of the 4 Tracks through case studies and group discussion.
Detailed Information
Main Topics
- The workshop will update participants on the requirements of EU Regulation 2018/848 related to grower groups with Internal Control Systems (ICS). It will discuss the impact of these requirements on several key areas:
- Group composition and how the new rules affect formation of the group and operations.
- Effects on producers based on total land holding and turnover limits by crop type.
- ICS documentation and challenges, including required documents and common implementation issues.
- Expected cost increases associated with compliance.
- Collaboration with control bodies and changes in these relationships.
- ICS documentation requirements, emphasizing traceability and comprehensive record-keeping.
- Risk assessment and precautionary measures for identifying and mitigating potential risks under the new regulation.
Main Objectives of the Workshop
The workshop aims to provide an understanding of the EU Regulation 2018/848 requirements for group certification with Internal Control Systems (ICS). It seeks to evaluate the current and future impacts of the regulation on the organic sector and explore ways to strengthen ICS beyond governmental mandates.
It addresses financial and administrative challenges faced by small-scale farmers in low and middleincome countries in obtaining organic certification, by focusing on how group certification with ICS, can facilitate market access and maintain high-quality standards for organic products.
Group certification is crucial for small-scale farmers, enabling them to access international organic markets. With new EU regulations coming into full effect by the end of 2025, understanding and adapting to these changes is vital for continued market access. This workshop will equip participants with the knowledge needed ensuring the sustainability and growth of organic farming in the Global South.
Main outcomes expected
- Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the new requirements for group certification with Internal Control Systems (ICS) and their implications for organic farming, they will understand how different organisations are addressing challenges and improve ICS implementation. Participants will learn best practices for strengthening ICS documentation, traceability, and risk assessment, leading to more effective and compliant ICS implementation.
- The workshop will foster connections among stakeholders promoting future collaboration and knowledge exchange. Attendees will leave with actionable insights and strategies to enhance their group certification processes, ensuring they are well-prepared for the upcoming regulatory changes and can maintain high-quality standards in organic farming.
Key Info
Format:
English (with materials and key insights shared via online
platforms)
Contact:
Organizer: Naturland e.V. Germany
-Contact: Federica Varini
Target Audience:
Maximum Participants: 50 participants
