A phytosanitary certificate is an official document issued by the plant protection organization of the exporting country to the plant protection organization of the importing country. It certifies that the plants or plant products covered by the certificate:
- have been inspected according to appropriate procedures
- are considered free from quarantine pests
- conform with the current phytosanitary regulations of the importing country
The phytosanitary certificate facilitates trade but it is not a trade document. The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) provides a list of most of the national plant protection organizations (NPPO) that are involved in the issuance of phytosanitary certificates.
Guidance
- D-99-06: Policy on the Issuance of Phytosanitary Certificates for Export and for Re-export
- ISPM 12 - Guidelines for Phytosanitary Certificates
Export inspection and phytosanitary certification
Canadian exporters should contact their local CFIA office to understand the export phytosanitary requirements, and arrange for export inspection and phytosanitary certification.