Tasmanian organic certifier merges with ACO

A Tasmanian organic certifier is merging with the country’s largest organic certification body. Tasmanian Organic-dynamic Producers (TOP) has announced that it will merge with Australian Certified Organic (ACO).

According to Paul Stadhams, CEO of Australian Organic, the merge strengthens opportunities for organic farmers in Tasmania and offers greater support for farmers who want to switch to organic practices to take advantage of the organics industry’s rapid growth.

“ACO certification is recognised by over seven international markets, and TOP clients wanting to export will benefit from having better access and support to ACO accreditation,” said Stadhams.

The merger means that TOP will no longer be a certification body for organic goods and services; instead, its certification will be carried out by ACO. TOP will continue as an industry support group for organic producers in Tasmania, while ACO will maintain an office in Tasmania and two auditors in the state.