WHAT IS A PHYTOSANITARY CERTIFICATE?

In the process of importing and exporting goods, especially plant-based products, compliance with phytosanitary regulations is crucial. The Phytosanitary Certificate is an essential document to ensure that goods do not carry harmful elements that could negatively impact crops and the environment of the importing country. So, what exactly is a Phytosanitary Certificate, and what is the process for obtaining one? Smart Link provides a detailed explanation in this article.

What is a Phytosanitary Certificate?

A Phytosanitary Certificate is an official document issued by a plant protection and quarantine agency to shippers. It certifies that the plants or plant products being shipped are free from harmful fungi, pests, or pathogens that could affect crops at the origin or destination.

Purpose of a Phytosanitary Certificate

For imports: Ensures that no harmful organisms are introduced into the importing country along with the goods.
For exports: Confirms that the goods meet the phytosanitary requirements for export.

Contents of a Phytosanitary Certificate

Name and address of the exporter
Name and address of the consignee
Quantity and type of packaging
Marks and labels
Place of origin
Means of transportation
Port of entry
Name and quantity of the product
Scientific names of the plants, etc.

Products Requiring a Phytosanitary Certificate

Not all plant-based goods require quarantine procedures. According to Circular No. 30/2014/TT-BNNPTNT issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the list of items requiring phytosanitary inspection includes:

Plants
Plant-based products
Fungi (excluding salted, frozen, canned fungi, and yeast)
Silkworm cocoons, silkworm husks, shellac
Insects, mites, pathogenic fungi, nematodes, bacteria, viruses, phytoplasma, viroids, and weeds used for identification, training, biological control, and research
Means of transport and storage for quarantined items
Other items capable of carrying quarantine pests as determined by the Plant Protection Department and reported to the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Documents Required for Phytosanitary Registration

Phytosanitary Registration Form as per Appendix I of Circular No. 30/2014/TT-BNNPTNT
Copy or original of the Phytosanitary Certificate issued by the plant quarantine authority of the exporting country
- If a photocopy is submitted, the original must be provided before the issuance of the import certificate.
Original or certified copy of the import phytosanitary permit (if required).

Procedure for Issuing an Import Phytosanitary Certificate

Submit the Application:
Submit one set of registration documents for import phytosanitary inspection to the plant quarantine authority. Applications can be submitted online through the National Single Window system or by mail.
Receive and Check Documents:
The plant quarantine authority reviews the submitted documents as per regulations.
Inspect the Goods:
The authority conducts inspections in two stages: preliminary and detailed examination of the goods.
Issue the Certificate:
If the goods meet the required standards, the plant quarantine authority will issue a certificate to the business.

Through this article, Smart Link has shared essential information regarding the Phytosanitary Certificate. Understanding and complying with phytosanitary regulations not only ensures smooth import-export processes but also promotes food safety and environmental protection. We hope this knowledge will be valuable for your international business activities, helping you prepare effectively and avoid unnecessary risks.

If you need legal support or assistance with customs procedures in import-export activities, please contact Smart Link Logistics for fast and efficient consultation. With over 14 years of experience in the transportation field, we are proud to accompany you throughout your journey.

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If you require assistance with international import and export of goods, please contact our team at Smartlink Logistics. We are available to provide you with professional guidance on our services and the necessary customs procedures.

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