The European Union's organic regulation (EU) 2018/848, which fully applied from January 2022, establishes comprehensive rules for organic production and labeling within the EU. For dried flowers exporters targeting European markets, compliance with this regulation is mandatory for using the EU organic logo and making organic claims.
The European Commission regularly updates FAQ documents to clarify implementation details. The January 2026 update includes specific guidance on dried products eligibility, import certificate requirements, and electronic Certificate of Inspection (COI) procedures.
Key EU Organic Requirements for Dried Flowers:
• Production Standards: Similar to USDA but with some differences in approved inputs and transition periods. All agricultural ingredients must be organic (95%+ rule applies to processed products).
• Import Requirements: All organic products imported into the EU require a Certificate of Inspection (COI) issued by the control body in the country of origin. Since 2026, COIs must be submitted electronically through the TRACES NT system.
• Equivalence Agreements: The EU has organic equivalence agreements with certain countries (including the United States, Canada, Japan, and others). Products from these countries may be imported as organic if they meet equivalent standards and have proper documentation.
• Third-Country Imports: For countries without equivalence agreements (including most Southeast Asian nations), importers must work with EU-recognized control bodies. The entire supply chain—from farm to final packaging—must be certified by an EU-approved certifier.
• Labeling Requirements: EU organic logo is mandatory for prepackaged organic food products from EU member states. For imported products, the logo is optional but commonly used. Must display code number of control body and indicate place of farming (EU/non-EU).
The new organic regulation maintains the same principles and production rules as the previous regulation, while strengthening the control system and introducing new rules for a more harmonised regime for operators in the EU and non-EU countries. [2]
Practical Considerations for Alibaba.com Sellers:
European buyers on Alibaba.com frequently request EU Organic certification documentation before placing bulk orders. When creating product listings:
• Clearly state certification status (certified, in conversion, not certified)
• Upload certification documents to Alibaba.com's verification system
• Specify which markets your certification covers (US, EU, both)
• Include certifier name and certificate number for buyer verification
Cost-Benefit Analysis: EU Organic certification typically costs more than USDA Organic due to additional import documentation requirements and potential need for EU-recognized certifiers. However, the EU market commands premium prices—organic dried flowers often sell for 30-50% above conventional equivalents. For sellers targeting both US and EU markets, some certifiers offer combined audit programs that reduce total costs.