Collaboration and Innovation are Keys to Organic Success
Posted by Anne L . Alonzo , Agricultural Marketing Service Administrator , on October 28 , 2015 at 2:30 PM
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 , organic agriculture has seen enormous growth and success over the last two years .
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 ’ s Organic Working Group , which I have the honor of chairing , has been working across USDA agencies to proactively implement the Secretary ’ s vision . We ’ ve made great strides in just the last two years . My agency , the Agricultural Marketing Service , also oversees USDA ’ s National Organic Program , the bedrock regulatory program
25