The power of certifications in the modern agri-food sector

Agricultural markets are constantly evolving, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality products. As consumers—and consequently, B2B buyers—prioritize the quality and safety of food and become aware of the environmental and social issues related to production and trade, suppliers are compelled to align their practices with certain principles. It is evident that the global food industry is facing a growing demand for safe, high-quality food, resulting in an upward preference for certified products produced with environmental and social responsibility in mind. In fact, according to research, three-fourths of consumers noted that one or more food certifications are important when it comes to choosing which products to buy, and 78% of consumers said they are willing to pay a premium for a product with certification.

Quality in the agri-food sector is a complex concept closely tied to certifications. It can involve factors like food safety, sustainability, environmental impact, animal welfare, and nutritional value. Although adopting sustainability standards is usually voluntary for suppliers, it is crucial to address these challenges. Certification and continuous education ensure that these standards are met, helping to create a more sustainable and equitable food system.

Why are certifications so essential for suppliers??

In today's global market, suppliers face daily challenges due to high competition and stringent standards. Certifications have become increasingly important for suppliers for one simple reason: trust. They help guarantee quality and safety throughout processes, monitoring every stage from the field to the final product to ensure that everything meets strict standards. Obtaining a certification demonstrates a commitment to quality, safety, and ethical standards, enhancing the reputation and awareness of both the supplier and the producer.?

Many suppliers and producers, particularly those in emerging markets or smaller operations, struggle to enter international markets due to a lack of recognized standards. By obtaining certifications, a pathway to overcome these barriers is provided, enabling them to meet global quality standards and thus gain access to a wider audience. Certified producers differentiate themselves from the competition and can attract buyers who have higher standards.

Sustainability is another major component of the importance of certifications in today's world, particularly due to the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. In this context, certifications play a vital role in guaranteeing that products and processes meet established sustainability standards. Adhering to recognized standards demonstrates a commitment to environmentally friendly practices and provides assurance to consumers and stakeholders that products are produced in a sustainable manner.

Food safety is one of the most important concerns for people worldwide. With the increasing prevalence of foodborne illnesses and the potential for severe consequences, ensuring the safety of food products has become more critical than ever. Certifications can confirm that products adhere to established safety protocols but also demonstrate a commitment to meeting industry requirements. Moreover, certifications help build strong partnerships with business partners, fostering long-term relationships based on trust and shared values. They also ensure that their work aligns with established standards, contributing to the overall success and reliability of the products.

GLOBALG.A.P. Certification: A key to global competitiveness and market trust

In today’s market, certifications are both voluntary and extremely necessary to stay competitive, increase awareness, boost sales, and establish oneself as a trustworthy supplier. There are many international certifications, but one of the most well-known is GLOBALG.A.P. In 2023, GLOBALG.A.P. reported the following figures:

• 4,274 supply chain companies under GLOBALG.A.P. certification?
• 137 countries with GLOBALGAP certification
• 4,553,361 hectares of certified plant production

These numbers illustrate the impact of GLOBALG.A.P. certification, highlighting the significant number of companies and agricultural areas that prioritize obtaining this certification. They underscore how widely the certification is recognized and adopted, reflecting its pivotal role in shaping global agricultural practices, enhancing food safety, and fostering market trust.

Empowering farmers through education

Recently, Wikifarmer has joined the GLOBALG.A.P. community, with GLOBALG.A.P. stating "This collaboration will enable Wikifarmer to integrate GLOBALG.A.P. standards into their academy training programs, providing farmers with the knowledge needed to implement these practices." As part of its partnership with GLOBALG.A.P., the Wikifarmer Academy—a component of Wikifarmer's comprehensive 360° ecosystem—has created an online course to help suppliers navigate the GLOBALG.A.P. certification process. This course provides a thorough overview of the certification requirements, outlining the best agricultural practices necessary for obtaining GLOBALG.A.P. certification and emphasizing the benefits of becoming certified. Participants will learn how to access the global fruit and vegetable market, secure better prices, and build stable partnerships with stakeholders.