The USDA is ending the U.S.u2013India Recognition Arrangement. Organic suppliers in India currently certified by APEDA-accredited certifiers must apply for direct certification with USDA-accredited certifiers by July 12, 2021, and must achieve certification by July 12, 2022.
If you source organic products or ingredients from India, visit the Organic Integrity Database to verify your supplier’s application status as either “Certified” or “Applied; APEDA Certified.” Tell your suppliers that they need to apply with a USDA-accredited certifier to continue business with you. After July 12, 2021, Indian imports must be purchased from suppliers who have applied for or been granted certification with a USDA-accredited certifier.
If you do not source organic products or ingredients from India, no action is required.
For more information, please see the USDA Agricultural Marketing Serviceu2019s India website and Timeline for Transition. Contact your Certification Service Specialist with any questions or concerns.