Import Certificates
NOP Import Certificates
Summary: Starting March 19, 2024, all organic products imported into the U.S. must be accompanied by an electronic NOP Import Certificate. This requirement is part of the USDA National Organic Program’s Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) final rule, published January 19, 2023. The new rule increases oversight, improves traceability, and ensures that imported organic products meet the same standards as domestic products.
What is the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) Rule?
The SOE final rule is one of the most significant updates to the USDA organic regulations since the program began. Its purpose is to:
- Increase supply chain oversight – closing gaps where fraud could occur.
- Improve traceability – ensuring organic products are authentic from production to market.
- Enhance certification requirements – requiring more operations in the organic supply chain to be certified.
- Standardize import verification – through mandatory use of electronic NOP Import Certificates.
What is a NOP Import Certificate?
A NOP Import Certificate is an official electronic document that verifies a shipment of imported goods is certified organic under USDA standards.
Each certificate includes:
- Identification of the certified organic product
- Details about the exporter and importer
- The certifying agent information
- Unique certificate numbers to ensure traceability
Key Deadlines
- January 19, 2023 – USDA published the final SOE rule.
- March 19, 2024 – Use of electronic NOP Import Certificates becomes mandatory for all imported organic products, regardless of existing trade agreements.
Why is This Change Important?
- Consistency – all imports must meet the same standards.
- Transparency – improves recordkeeping and traceability of shipments.
- Fraud prevention – reduces the risk of non-organic products being sold as organic.
- Consumer confidence – ensures the integrity of the USDA Organic Seal.
What This Means for Importers
If you import organic products into the U.S.:
- Work with your certifier – your certifying agent (such as OTCO) will issue the NOP Import Certificates.
- Update your Organic System Plan (OSP) – to include import activities and verification processes.
- Coordinate with exporters – ensure they provide all information needed to generate the certificate.
- Prepare early – shipments after March 19, 2024, without a valid NOP Import Certificate will not be considered compliant.