ORGANIC IMPORT AND EXPORT
Organic Imports and Exports, Done Right
What We Do for Importers and Exporters
Every organic shipment that enters the United States now needs an import certificate, and most importers, brokers, and traders must be certified. We set up the system so each shipment has its papers.
Import Certificates
We show you how the NOP Import Certificate works, who asks for it, and how to match it to each shipment.
Supplier Checks
We check the organic certificate of every supplier and set up a simple way to keep them current.
Export Papers
Selling to Canada, Europe, Japan, or beyond? We line up the papers and label terms each market asks for.
Why Traders Choose Kona Organic
A missing paper can hold a container at the port. We build the file before the shipment moves.
Before You Ship
We check the papers while there is still time to fix them.
One Clear Trail
Each lot can be traced from the grower to the buyer, with a record at every step.
Ready for Inspection
Your records are set up for the trace test and mass balance your inspector will run.
Common Questions
Do I need to be certified to import organic products?
Most importers do. Since March 2024, companies that import, trade, or broker organic products must be certified, with only a few narrow exceptions.
What is an NOP Import Certificate?
It is an electronic record for one organic shipment into the United States. The certifier of the exporter creates it, and the importer enters its number at customs.
Do brokers and traders need to be certified?
Usually yes, even if they never touch the product. Ask us and we will check your case against the rules.
Can I sell my USDA organic product in other countries?
Often yes. The United States has organic trade arrangements with markets such as Canada, the European Union, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Each one has its own papers and label terms.
What records does an importer need to keep?
Supplier certificates, import certificates, purchase and sales records, and shipping papers, tied together by lot so any shipment can be traced.
Do I need a fraud prevention plan?
Yes. Every certified operation needs one, and importers are checked closely on it.
Do you work with companies outside the United States?
Yes. We work with exporters overseas that sell into the US market, on site or remotely.
What Changed in 2024
The Strengthening Organic Enforcement rule took full effect in March 2024. More businesses in the middle of the supply chain must be certified, and every organic import needs an import certificate.
Who Is Exempt
A few businesses are, such as some that only store or move sealed packages. Exempt businesses still have to prevent mixing and keep records. We check your case.
What Inspectors Check
Supplier certificates, import certificates matched to shipments, a trace on one lot, and the math on what came in and what went out.
Who this is for
Importers, exporters, brokers, traders, and food brands that buy organic ingredients from other countries or sell organic products abroad.
When to call us
Call before your first shipment, or as soon as a certifier or a customs broker asks for a paper you do not have.
Our conflict of interest policy is simple: we never inspect an operation we consult for, and your certifier always makes the certification decision. Book a consultation to talk through where your operation stands and what it needs.
Related: Certification for Handlers and Food Brands • Fraud Prevention Plans • Organic Label Review • Organic Input Review • Organic Sales and Marketing • Take the free readiness quiz