Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management, the Law on Organic Production, adopted by the Parliament on Tuesday, provides a foundation for the sustainable development of this sector while ensuring the efficient functioning of the organic products market and fair competition.

“In addition, the law will create conditions for increasing domestic production, boosting consumer trust, protecting consumer interests, encouraging short distribution channels, and influencing other processes important for the environment,” the Ministry stated in a press release.

This piece of legislation will address issues related to imports and exports, as well as the implementation of controls and certifications, official inspections, and oversight, which until now were not legally regulated to the extent this law provides.

“Of particular importance is the fact that with the adoption of this law, Montenegro will be one step closer to closing negotiating chapter 11,” the Ministry stated.

As an EU candidate country, Montenegro is committed to harmonizing its national legislation in the field of organic production with the relevant EU acquis.

The Ministry also recalled that EU regulation 2018/848 came into effect on 1 January 2022, introducing many changes, including strengthened control system rules.

“The purpose of the regulation is to further strengthen consumer confidence in the EU’s organic system and ensure that all organic products sold in the Union are produced under the same rules,” the Ministry concluded.