EU organic farming expands to 17M hectares as demand and policy drive growth
Organic farming now covers 17 million hectares across the EU, making up 11% of all agricultural land. This steady growth reflects rising demand and policy support for sustainable food production. The European Commission has now proposed updates to organic rules to simplify processes and boost the sector’s competitiveness even further.
The EU’s Action Plan for Organic Production (2021–2026) aims to expand both supply and demand for organic goods. Alongside this, the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has allocated around €19 billion to support organic farming. These funds help maintain quality jobs, strengthen rural economies, and encourage short supply chains that keep value within local communities.
Retail sales of organic products in the EU have surged past €45 billion, more than doubling over the last decade. Younger farmers are driving this shift, with over 20% of those under 40 choosing organic methods—nearly twice the EU average. The sector’s growth also brings environmental benefits, including better soil health, cleaner water, and higher biodiversity.
To reduce bureaucracy, the Commission has proposed targeted changes to organic regulations. These adjustments are expected to save €47.8 million annually in administrative costs and a one-off €109.2 million in transition expenses. A roadmap for further reforms is also in development, focusing on cutting red tape and improving market access.
The proposed rule changes aim to streamline organic farming while maintaining high environmental and welfare standards. With strong financial backing and rising consumer interest, the sector is set to play a key role in the EU’s sustainable agriculture goals. The next steps will involve refining the legal framework to support long-term growth.
