The government’s announcement on expanded organic equivalency with Japan is a positive development for organic producers, particularly those in the livestock and dairy sectors.
The agreement came into effect on 1 April, and now covers the full range of UK‑certified organic livestock products including beef, lamb, pork, and poultry, as well as processed meat products such as bacon, sausages, hams and cured meats.
Organic dairy products, including cheese, butter, yoghurt and milk powders, are also within scope, alongside processed foods containing animal‑derived ingredients.
“It’s encouraging to see new opportunities emerging for our organic members in the Japanese market.”
NFU Deputy President Paul Tompkins
British businesses will only need a single UK organic certification to sell their organic livestock products in both countries.
Reducing duplication in certification and removing administrative barriers is something organic producers will benefit from, and this arrangement will help them compete more effectively in a growing Asian market where demand for high‑quality organic food continues to rise.
World-leading standards
Responding to the news, NFU Deputy President Paul Tompkins said: “It’s encouraging to see new opportunities emerging for our organic members in the Japanese market. The sector has faced a number of pressures in recent years, so any step that helps strengthen confidence and create additional routes to market is welcome.”
Farming Minister Dame Angela Eagle said the arrangement “tears down barriers”, giving UK producers access to Japanese consumers “who are increasingly seeking out the very best organic products the world has to offer”.
NFU members across all sectors are committed to producing food to world‑leading standards, and we welcome the opportunity for growth within the organic market. This agreement is a step forward for organic livestock and dairy producers in reaching new markets.
