CCOF is experiencing record numbers of new handlers, processors, and importers applying for certification. The certification process for these new applicants could take six months or more, depending on the completeness of the applications and volume of applicants.
Under new regulations from the USDA National Organic Program (NOP), importers must be certified to import organic goods. This requirement went into effect on March 19, 2024, and the NOP will no longer allow uncertified importers to import organic products after September 19, 2024. After this date, organic importers need to be certified to continue importing organic goods into the United States.
We encourage importers to respond as soon as possible to CCOF requests about your certification application to minimize disruptions to your business. After the September 19 deadline, you will need to wait until your organic certificate is issued to resume importing organic products. CCOF is working diligently to process new applications in a timely manner. The organic community and CCOF have experienced unprecedented workload in 2024 due to USDA’s Strengthening Organic Enforcement regulatory change and an increase in certified clients. Please note that our review timelines and inspector availability are currently affected, and new applications will take several months to achieve certification.
Once your operation is certified, you may resume imports. Your exporter will request the NOP Import Certificate from their certifier; you will declare the shipment as organic and enter the NOP Import Certificate number with your import filing in the CBP ACE database.
For more information, please see:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCBP/bulletins/3add1e9
https://www.ccof.org/news/certification-of-new-handlers-processors-delayed/