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Austria continues to be one of the leading forces in Europe opposed to the use of agricultural biotechnology. Anti-biotech NGOs, who have a strong influence on Austrian consumers, farmer organizations, the food-processing sector, and the retail sector all campaign against genetically engineered agricultural and food products.

In 2022, Austrian organic sales reached $2.94 billion, a new high, and remain at a high level in 2023. Despite a difficult market environment with high inflation and a significantly increased cost of living, organic sales increased by over five percent compared to 2021.

Austria as a member of the European Union (EU), applies EU regulations to the imports of agricultural products. U.S. export certification requirements for most products destined for the EU are harmonized.

This report outlines specific requirements for food and agricultural product imports into Austria. As a member of the European Union, Austria follows EU directives and regulations.

On November 25, the Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety confirmed the first on-farm case of avian influenza this fall.

This report includes information on the plant, animal, and microbial biotechnology situation in Austria. Austria continues to be one of the leading forces in Europe opposed to the use of agricultural biotechnology.

After recent unsuccessful attempts to totally ban glyphosate, the Austrian parliament voted unanimously on a partial ban.