The Fairtrade Network of Asia and Pacific Producers (FTNAPP) recently hosted a pivotal webinar on the 2018/848 New EU Organic Regulations and their implications for Fairtrade certified organizations. Held on September 16 and 19, 2024, this online event drew the participation of over 100 individuals committed to fostering collaboration among producers and product networks facing the challenges posed by the new regulations.
Analysis of Regulatory Changes
The discussions started with Mr. Andreas Kratz, Director of Products, Programs & Policy at Fairtrade International. He illuminated the key aspects of the regulation, which emphasizes compliance requirements tightening around organic production. These changes prioritize supply chain transparency, environmental sustainability, and product traceability. Such shifts are poised to impact Fairtrade standards, which are already focused on sustainability, fair pricing, and ethical labour practices.
Challenges for Small Producers
During the first session, the focus shifted to Small Producer Organizations (SPOs), where Ms. Marike de Pena, President of the Board of Directors of the Latin American and Caribbean Network of Fair-Trade Small Producers and Workers, shared invaluable insights. She shed light on the unique challenges small-scale farmers face, particularly those lacking the resources and technical know-how needed to comply with the new standards. Ms. de Pena emphasized the urgent need for capacity-building initiatives to support producers in navigating this transition.
Detailed Overview of Changes
As the webinar progressed, Ms. Florence Nagawa, an expert in voluntary sustainability standards and EU organic regulations, provided a thorough overview of the regulatory changes. Key points included a shift from product-based to process-based controls and stricter residue testing requirements. These changes are daunting for Fairtrade producers, especially those with limited access to technology and resources.
Best Practices from Producers
Mr. Shastry Raghavendra Prabhakar, a coffee producer and FTNAPP Board Member, shared his organization’s journey in adapting to these new requirements. He discussed key best practices, such as:
· Avoiding parallel production to prevent contamination.
· Registering Internal Control Systems (ICS) as legal entities to reduce certification costs.
· Improving traceability to enhance transparency across the supply chain.
· Maintaining geographic proximity of farms within the ICS for better management.
Mr. Shastry also stressed the importance of cooperative awareness, ensuring all farmers, organic or otherwise, have equal rights and a voice in decision-making. “The best approach to adapting to change is to build the capacity of coffee producers to navigate regulatory changes, understand challenges and opportunities, and advocate for equitable trade,” he noted.
Advocacy and Support Initiatives
The conversations culminated in discussions on FTNAPP’s advocacy initiative, focusing on supporting producer organizations to adapt effectively to the evolving regulatory landscape. This initiative involves continuous dialogue and stakeholder collaboration to ensure Fairtrade-certified organizations can thrive amidst these changes.
Testimonials: Voices of Change
Mr. Shastry Raghavendra Prabhakar, Malenadu Savayava Krishi Parivar (India) shared his insights on the importance of capacity building for coffee producers. He emphasized that “the best approach in adapting to change is to build the capacity of coffee producers to navigate regulatory changes, understand the challenges and market opportunities, and the importance of producer-driven solutions in influencing equitable trade.” His perspective highlights producers’ need to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a changing landscape.
Rolly Turabell, from Pandanon Integrated Balangon Farm Workers Association Inc. (Philippines) expressed his appreciation for the training provided during the webinar. He stated, “This training was invaluable. We learned so much about Fairtrade’s initiatives to support EU organic certified producers to meet the new changes in EU regulation. We want to have more training like this in the future.” Rolly’s feedback reflects the eagerness of producers to engage in continued learning and adaptation in their practices.
Conclusion
The FTNAPP webinar served as a vital platform for knowledge sharing, reinforcing the commitment to producer-led advocacy. Key speakers—including Mr. Andreas Kratz, Ms. Marike de Pena, Ms. Florence Nagawa, Mr. Shastry Raghavendra Prabhakar, and Ms. Natasha Erika Jane Siaron—provided invaluable insights, ensuring producers are equipped to adapt effectively.
The event concluded with a heartfelt virtual group photo, symbolizing the unity and resilience of Fairtrade producers. As the new EU organic regulations come into effect, the insights and strategies shared during this webinar will be crucial in ensuring producers thrive in this evolving landscape.
