Meeting the export premium market certification requirements for non-genetically modified organism (non-GMO) produce has just been made cheaper, easier, and more efficient for Australian farmers.

Continuing its ongoing focus on export reform, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has phased-out the use of manual processing for non-GMO certification to 37 countries with certification now achieved through the department’s electronic Export Documentation System, EXDOC.

Deputy secretary of the Agricultural Trade Group, Nicola Hinder PSM said the change provides opportunities for Australian famers to access the non-GMO certification they need, more quickly and with less costs.

“The Department is always looking at innovations that help Australian producers more easily reach lucrative markets like the international non-GMO market,” Ms Hinder said.

“EXDOC makes trade easier, more efficient and saves money for our agricultural industries, especially our grain growers.”

EXDOC minimises the risk of fraudulent certificates, streamlines processes to save time and is estimated to save industry at least $700,000 per year in reduced fees.

A certificate is needed for each consignment that is exported and the new system allows exporters to print their own certificates on department security paper and receive consolidated invoices – saving them significant time and money.

Certificate costs have been reduced – saving exporters $113 per certificate for grain exports, and $170 per certificate for horticultural exports.

There are also savings made by reducing the labour cost within DAFF, with a saving of 1500 hours of work per year.

With the number of countries requesting non-GMO certification for exports rising, DAFF says there will be a significant ongoing benefit to this transition.