Area under organic farming

In Belgium, organic farming accounts for 7.6% of the total utilised agricultural area (UAA) (2022 data). In 2012–2022, the organic farming share increased by a factor of 1.7. The EU objective of 25% of UAA being used for organic farming will be achieved only if the average annual growth rate observed over this period increases by sevenfold between now and 2030.

There are significant differences between regions. In the Flemish Region, organic farming covers 1.6% of the UAA (2022 data). The Flemish Region’s ‘Strategic plan bio 2023–2027’ aims to achieve coverage of 5% of UAA by 2027. In the Walloon Region, organic farming covers 12.7% of the UAA (2022 data)], with a related plan aiming to achieve coverage of 30% of the UAA by 2030.

Growth in the sector since 2005 has been driven by an increase in demand for organic products, the desire of some farmers to produce differently and public support. In 2020, the health crisis (COVID-19) boosted demand a little further. However, since 2022, inflation has led to an increase in raw material prices and a decrease in consumer purchasing power, slowing growth in the organic sector.