Comparative Analysis of the Legal Frameworks for Organic Production in the Southern Cone

Organic agriculture has become increasingly relevant in the Southern Cone, contributing to sustainability, food sovereignty, and access to specialized markets. This study aims to compare the legal frameworks regulating organic production in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Chile. A qualitative and descriptive methodology was adopted, based on documentary analysis of national legislation, certification systems, and international agreements. Data were collected from official sources and analyzed across six dimensions: legal structure, definitions, certification, regulation of inputs and seeds, inspection systems, and international equivalence. Results show that all countries prohibit GMOs, restrict synthetic inputs, and require certification. Brazil and Paraguay stand out for recognizing participatory guarantee systems and encouraging heirloom seed use. Differences remain in certification types, inspection practices, and alignment with global trade norms. While Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay maintain formal equivalence agreements, Brazil and Paraguay are pursuing distinct bilateral strategies. The study concludes that regulatory harmonization must respect socio-productive diversity and promote participatory governance, seed sovereignty, and agroecological policies rooted in social justice.