Organic Industry Booming

'Organic products are one of the fastest growing food sectors in the world and are currently produced and consumed in over 130 countries' Andre Leu, the Chair of the Organic Federation of Australia stated.

'This growth of new farms, products and numbers of consumers has been steadily increasing over the last 20 years. In the last 10 years the rate of growth has consistently increased in all of the advanced economies. Market analysts forecast annual growth rates of between 10% and 30%. Asia and North America are enjoying sustained annual growth of between 20-45% '

'Market analysts forecast annual growth rates between 10% and 30% around the world. Asia and North America are enjoying a sustained annual growth of between 20-45%.'

'In 2004, the organic market in the USA had a value of over A$14.7 billion, the overall European market was worth A$17.3 billion and the market in China reached A$10.7 billion.'

'Demand out strips supply in key areas. USDA statistics cite that organic dairy farming grew 477 percent in six years, from 1997 to 2003 in the USA. But the growth in organic dairy farms, acreage and animals is not keeping pace with consumer demand. Organic dairy sales in supermarkets are growing 36 percent annually. To meet demand, the US is importing organic milk from New Zealand and is about to import organic milk from Australia. At the same time Australian organic dairy businesses cannot meet the rapidly growing demand and need more farmers to produce organic milk to supply domestic demand. '

'The situation in Europe is similar. Demand for organic milk skyrocketed 2 years ago after a scientific study showed that it was higher in nutrients. The UK will have a 30% shortfall this year.'

'The situation for organic grains is the same. Industry organisations, such as the Organic Federation of Australia, get regular requests from around the world for organic grain from Australia. Unfortunately we cannot supply these customers as we are importing organic flour and grains to meet our domestic demand. We need more organic grain farmers to meet both the domestic and export demand in this high value market.' Mr Leu stated

'The Third National Organic Conference, to be hosted by the OFA at Darling Harbour, Sydney, 22nd and 23rd July 2006 will be an excellent opportunity to learn more and meet the leading experts.'

'Held in conjunction with the Organic Expo to create Australia's largest organic event, the conference will be a great opportunity to see the full range of organic products and learn more about the worlds fastest growing food industry' Andre said.

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