2025-02-11
Following negotiations with India's National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) regarding the export requirements for three hardwood species, India has accepted Canada's request to add heat treatment as an option for wood of walnut (Juglans spp.), cherry (Prunus spp.) and birch (Betula spp.) from Canada. On November 14, 2024, India issued a notification through the World Trade Organization (WTO) process to notify of this change. The new requirements came into force on January 27th, 2025.
Previously, exported wood of these species to India had to be fumigated with methyl bromide, which was not practical for the Canadian forest industry. The Montreal Protocol restricts the use of methyl bromide and this process is not suitable in cold climates.
This is an important market access improvement for the forestry industry, especially in eastern Canada, and it contributes to trade diversification for forestry products. Exports of other species of hardwood to India were valued as $1.9M in 2023.
Please contact your local CFIA office for more information.