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Role of recognised agencies in organic exports

Recognised agencies (RAs) certify organic businesses – and the products they produce – against the requirements of the official organic assurance programme (OOAP). Certification to the OOAP requirements allows organic businesses to export, or supply for export, products to markets covered by the OOAP with an official organic assurance issued by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).

RAs are independent agencies that have been recognised by MPI.

What RAs are responsible for

RAs are responsible for verifying organic operators. Verification involves:

  • registering organic operators for the OOAP
  • evaluating organic management plans (OMPs)
  • verifying that operators are following their OMPs and deciding how often they need to be assessed
  • resolving non-compliance issues
  • checking that organic consignments are eligible to export.

Read about operator and exporter responsibilities under the OOAP

Contact a recognised agency

Recognised persons

Recognised persons provide services under the organic export requirements. These include:

  • evaluation
  • verification
  • certification.

MPI keeps a register of recognised persons.

Organics recognised person register [PDF, 294 KB]

Organisations seeking to become a recognised agency under the OOAP

The Organics Products and Production Act 2023 will replace MPI’s OOAP from early 2028. To provide consistency and stability for the organic sector while the Act is implemented, MPI will not accept applications from organisations seeking to become a recognised agency under the OOAP except in certain circumstances. This decision was effective from 30 June 2026.

Existing recognitions of agencies and persons under the OOAP are not affected by this decision.

New organisations interested in becoming a recognised entity (RE) under the act should familiarise themselves with:

Candidate organisations will also need to be familiar with the Organic Standards Regulations 2025 (NZ Legislation)

To keep updated on the progress to implement the act, sign up to get our newsletter delivered to your inbox.

Organic newsletters

For any additional information on the process for becoming a recognised entity (RE) under the act, including when MPI will begin accepting applications, email OrganicsConsultation@mpi.govt.nz

Who to contact

If you have questions about the role and responsibilities of recognised agencies and persons under the OOAP, email organics@mpi.govt.nz

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