Evaluating the different approaches for improving UK organic trade statistics

Project Aims:

The aim of this 6-months research project is to improve organic trade statistics in the UK. Improving organic trade data collection is particularly important and timely given the global growth in the organic market, which is likely to continue as consumer demand for organic food has been increasing over the last years. Also, better international trade data within the organic sector would help businesses and policy maker make informed decisions, which is especially critical in light of the UK exit from the EU.

This study will at first assess the costs and benefits associated with different data collection approaches, e.g. surveys of organic importers and exporters, using existing customs data to extract organics data, incorporating a unique identifier into international trade statistics, e.g. as Denmark have done with SITC codes. Based on this analysis, the most suitable approach identified will be implemented in a pilot study for selected agri-food goods.

ORC's Role:

Project leader

Project leader and partners:

Organic Research Centre (ORC): Project leader
Organic Policy, Business and Research Consultancy (OPBRC)
Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB)
Soil Association Certification
Organic Farmers & Growers (OF&G)
Organic Food Federation (OFF)
Organic Trade Board (OTB)

Previous Relevant Work:

Organic Data Network

All sources of funding:

Department of International Trade funded, led by Defra