The Organic Action Program 2023+

The first action program for organic farming was developed by the then Federal Ministry for Agriculture and  Forestry, Climate- and Environmental Protection, Regions and Water Management in 2001/2002. In the following years, four more organic action programs were implemented, and their impact is evident. In 2001, the share of organic farms was still 11 percent, and by 2022 it had doubled to 22 percent. Organic farmland increased from 16 percent in 2001 to 26 percent today. More than 10 percent of purchased food is currently organic, with a long-term increasing trend; four years ago, the share was still below 10 percent.

What we have learned in Austria during this time

The success of implementing organic action programs depends crucially on how well the stakeholders collaborate. The added value of research findings is significantly increased when they can be integrated into agricultural advisory services. Continuous coordination through comprehensive discussions among farms, interest groups, processors, marketers, the scientific community, education, advisory services, administration, and the media is essential for harmonious and qualitative growth.

Key factors for success include:

• Dedicated organic farmers
• Environmentally conscious consumers
• A functioning education system
• Efficient funding and financial support
• Wide availability through the food retail sector

The new Organic Action Program 2023+ is the sixth such program. It sets the direction for the future, addresses the points mentioned above, and provides targeted support wherever appropriate and feasible.

Key Objectives, Content, and Challenges

Maintaining and expanding Austria’s position as the EU’s number one organic country:
Austria is considered a leading organic nation in the EU. With 26 percent of agricultural land (from 23 percent of all farms) managed organically, Austria is at the forefront in Europe. Promoting and strengthening organic production remains a clear goal. By 2027, the share of organic farmland is targeted to reach around 30 percent, and taking demand trends into account, it is expected to increase further to 35 percent by 2030.

Increasing demand for organic products:
To strengthen the value creation from organic products in a resource-efficient manner, primary production must grow in harmony with market demand. The share of organic foods in total Austrian food retail sales has steadily grown to over 10 percent in recent years, despite the economic crisis. To continue this trend, it is necessary to expand marketing opportunities, promote the visibility of organic products to consumers, and ensure balanced growth throughout the entire value chain of the organic sector.

Meeting EU Green Deal targets:
The EU Green Deal imposes higher ecological and economic requirements on all agricultural production. Organic farming already provides solutions in several areas. By further enhancing cooperation, innovation, investments, and the transfer of knowledge on organic production through agricultural schools as well as educational and advisory institutions, the sustainability and resilience of organic agriculture can be further strengthened.

Alignment with EU policy frameworks:
The measures of the EU Organic Action Plan and the communications of the European Economic and Social Committee are to be taken into account when implementing the measures of this Organic Action Program.

Adapting to the new EU Organic Regulation (2018/848):
The new EU organic regulation and its implementing acts present new challenges. The measures of this Organic Action Program aim to support successful implementation, particularly through information and education initiatives.