The article on the old website bore this title but presented content about PGS — a reliable certification system for organic products.
Participatory Guarantee Systems
Direct participation of stakeholders in the chain
Consumers need an assurance that products are produced according to organic standards. PGS creates that assurance through the direct participation of farmers, consumers, traders, and other stakeholders in the supply chain.
PGS around the world
PGS serves farmers and consumers in many countries such as New Zealand, the USA, India, Thailand, Brazil, and Peru. Operations are adapted to local communities, geography, and markets, but the core principles remain consistent.
Difference from third-party certification
PGS shares the same goal of providing reliable assurance but encourages the direct participation of farmers and consumers. By reducing paperwork and costs, the system is suitable for small-scale farmers.
PGS in Vietnam
IFOAM has accepted PGS as a valid assurance system for organic products since 2004. The ADDA–VNFU project subsequently introduced the model in Vietnam; partners reached a consensus to implement it in October 2008.