In the U.S., the $4.2 billion organic industry is growing at 24 percent annually and is expected to reach $6.6 billion by 2000. The European market for organic foods is currently comparable to the U.S. at less than 2 percent of total food sales, but is expected to expand to as much as 10 percent by 2006. With a population of 370 million, Europe has more potential than the U.S. The UK imports 70 percent of its food, and Germany – the largest organic food market there at $1.6 billion and growing at 30-40 percent annually – imports 50 percent.
The Japanese market is similar to Germany’s and will grow to $2.6 billion by 2000. There is tremendous potential there since they only import 1 percent of their food. Canada is also experiencing great demand for organic products. Around the world, organic products sell at premiums and assurances that organic claims are legitimate are crucial. Strong certification standards are therefore critical.
Source: Natural Foods Merchandiser
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