EU action plan for organic farming

The European Commission has adopted the "European Action Plan for Organic Food and Farming" whose objective is to facilitate the ongoing development of organic farming in the EU. The Commission puts forward a list of 21 policy measures to be implemented, such as improving information about organic farming, streamlining public support via rural development, improving production standards or strengthening research. This plan comes in response to a rapid increase in the number of farmers producing organically and to a strong demand from consumers during the last years. It is based on extensive consultations with Member States and stakeholders including an online consultation in 2003, a hearing in January 2004, and meetings with Member States and stakeholder groups. The Action Plan will be presented at the next Agriculture Council.