Phytosanitary Certificates (PHYTO)

Overview of Phytosanitary Certificates and Permits

Phytosanitary certificates and permits are essential documents in international trade involving plants, plant products, and other regulated articles. These documents ensure that the traded items meet specific phytosanitary requirements, preventing the spread of pests and diseases across borders.

Phytosanitary Certificates

• Purpose: Phytosanitary certificates are issued to confirm that consignments of plants, plant products, or other regulated articles comply with the phytosanitary import requirements of the importing country124.

• Types: There are two main types:

  • Phytosanitary Certificate for Export: Issued for direct exports.

  • Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export: Issued when goods are re-exported to another country14.

• Issuance: These certificates are issued by a National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) or authorized public officers56.

• Application Process: Applications are typically made online, and certificates are issued electronically after inspection3.

Phytosanitary Permits

• Import Permits: Required for importing plants and plant products. These permits ensure compliance with the importing country’s phytosanitary regulations.

• Export Permits: Not always required, but exporters must comply with the importing country’s phytosanitary standards, which are verified through phytosanitary certificates.

Key Points

• Regulated Articles: Phytosanitary certificates are required for regulated articles such as plants, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and certain processed plant products5.

• International Standards: The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) sets standards for phytosanitary certification to ensure consistency and reliability across countries6.

In summary, phytosanitary certificates are critical for ensuring plant health and preventing the spread of pests and diseases during international trade, while permits are part of the broader regulatory framework governing these transactions.