Organic Farming Regulation (EU) 2018/848

Regulation (EU) 2018/848¹ constitutes the core legal framework governing organic production and the labelling of organic products in the European Union. It underpins the EU’s transition towards more sustainable food systems and is a central instrument for delivering the objectives of the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy, including the target of reaching 25% of agricultural land under organic farming by 2030.

The regulation establishes a comprehensive set of rules for organic production, processing, distribution, and control. Its primary objectives are to support the sustainable development of organic farming, protect natural resources, biodiversity, and animal welfare, and contribute to balanced rural development. Under this framework, organic operators are prohibited from using synthetic chemical pesticides, mineral fertilisers, GMOs, and ionising radiation. In contrast, the use of antibiotics is strictly limited and permitted only under clearly defined conditions. The regulation also strengthens market integrity by harmonising production rules, ensuring consistent labelling, and reinforcing consumer confidence through a robust control system.

For the WB6, alignment with Regulation (EU) 2018/848 is important in meeting EU accession requirements under Negotiation Chapter 11 (Agriculture and Rural Development) and Chapter 12 (Food Safety, Veterinary and Phytosanitary Policy).