April 12, 2013, Ottawa: Canadian organic producers will once again have increased opportunities to export their products and Canadian families shopping for organic food will have more choices following an arrangement reached between Canada and Costa Rica.

The CanadaCosta Rica Organic Equivalency Arrangement is the outcome of an extensive analysis of both countries production and certification systems. The arrangement will allow for easier import and export of certified organic products between Canada and Costa Rica without the need for additional certification, thus reducing costs and red tape for industry.

"This arrangement with Costa Rica eliminates trade barriers to give Canadian organic producers a competitive edge in the Costa Rican organic market," said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "Canadian consumers will also benefit by having increased access to organic food options."

Canadas Organic Products Regulations, 2009 came into force on June 30, 2009.

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