For years, the organic industry has experienced enormous growth, defying expectations and creating exciting opportunities for producers and entrepreneurs around the world. 2014 was another record year for the organic community, with 19,474 certified organic operations in the United States and nearly 28,000 certified organic operations from more than 120 countries around the globe. The retail market for organic products is now valued at more than $39 billion in the U.S. and over $75 billion worldwide. With its rapidly growing market and high consumer interest, USDA is focused on helping this area of agriculture achieve even greater success. In May 2013, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack issued guidance that identified organic priorities for the Department, including training and outreach, growing the organic sector, reducing paperwork, improving research, and gathering data.

USDA invested $81.5 million in research

USDA’s Organic Working Group has been working across USDA agencies to proactively implement the Secretary’s vision. Over the last two years, USDA invested $81.5 million in research to support organic production, and more than 1,100 farms have benefitted from $15 million in assistance through USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). NRCS also streamlined their conservation activity plans for producers who are transitioning to organic farming practices. In the last two years, USDA Rural Development awarded $27 million in grants and loans to support organic producers and handlers. In 2014, Agricultural Marketing Service issued over 9,000 reimbursements totaling over $7 million to defray certification costs for organic producers and handlers.

USDA continues to expand markets for American organic products abroad, adding to the list of agreements that increase market access for U.S. producers. This Administration has secured trade arrangements with five countries so far: Canada, the European Union, Japan, Korea, and Switzerland.

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