Indocert: Support to set up an Indian Organic Certification Agency

An Indian initiative

In 2001, a group of Indian NGOs and farmer associations has taken the initiative to set-up an Indian Organic Certification Agency. They approached FiBL for advice and technical support. The project idea has been submitted to the Swiss Government. After a joint feasibility assessment, a detailed project proposal and business plan was developed and submitted to the Swiss government with a request for funding.

The Swiss State Secretary of Economic Affairs (seco) approved the project within their policy to enable developing countries and economies in transition to set-up organic certification programs.

The need for local certification

A local certification program which is well supported by a national organic movement can strengthen the identity of a country's organic sector and give fresh impetus for various joint activities. Reducing the cost of certification can be another motivation for developing countries to set up a local certification agency. Especially the development of domestic organic markets can be facilitated if local certification is available.

A long way to go

Organic inspection and certification are complex tasks, and regulations and accreditation criteria are manifold. Only a well recognized and internationally accredited certification will facilitate access to both export and domestic organic markets.

Therefore seco, FiBL and the Swiss certification body bio.inspecta

• support in the planning process
• consulting of the management
• support in developing structures, administration, procedures and documentation
• technical training of staff and committee members
• support in achieving accreditation requirements
• re-certification until international accreditation is gained
• support in the planning process

Setting up an organic certification agency in India

Further Information:

Homepage www.indocert.org