Export of crop products from one nation to another is regulated under strict plant health regulations to avoid the transfer of pests and diseases. A Phytosanitary Certificate (PSC) is one of the major requirements for plant and plant product exporters. In India, it is an export permission for agricultural products that guarantees the exports will be accepted according to the plant health standards in the importing nation.
Whether you are exporting seeds, fresh produce or fruits, or wood items, it is worthwhile to learn about the phytosanitary certificate procedure. This article covers everything you may want to know – from what a Phytosanitary Certificate is and why it is required, to the step-by-step, in-depth application procedure in India.
What is a Phytosanitary Certificate?
A Phytosanitary Certificate is a certificate document signed by the exporting nation’s plant quarantine authority. It warrants that the consignment of plants, plant products, or other regulated products has been inspected, meets the phytosanitary requirements of the importing country, and is free from pests and disease for quarantine.
Issuing Authority in India
The issuing authority of Phytosanitary Certificates in India is the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare’s Plant Quarantine and Inspection Services (PQIS). They issue them on behalf of the Government of India by the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage (DPPQS).
Legal Basis
India’s obligations for the issuance of phytosanitary certificates are derived under the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) to which India is a party. Domestically, the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order, 2003, governs the procedure and regulatory compliance.
Why is a Phytosanitary Certificate Required for Export?
The primary purpose of a Phytosanitary Certificate is to ensure the prevention of transboundary spread of plant pests and diseases. The exporting country has to prove that its exports are free from pests and also comply with the importing country’s requirements.
Mandatory for Certain Products
The certificate is mandatory for the export of significant agricultural products. Without an authentic Phytosanitary Certificate [PSC] , free entry into customs of the importing nation can be denied and from there will ensue resubmissions, fines, and destruction of the commodity.
Significance in Global Trade
Phytosanitary compliance gives confidence on the part of trading nations. In case of Indian exporters, not only does it make customs clearance easy, but it also helps save the reputation of the country as a good trade partner.
Products Requiring a Phytosanitary Certificate
As a rule, articles in the list below are required to have a Phytosanitary Certificate:
- Fresh Plants and nursery stock
- Seeds, bulbs, cuttings
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
- Flowers and Foliage
- Grains and Pulses
- Timber and Wood Products
- Soil, Bark, and Plant Debris
- Processed Plant Products (as per destination country regulations)
Note: Special certification requirements, if any, should always be double-checked with the importing country quarantine authority.
Types of Phytosanitary Certificates Issued in India
India has two types of Phytosanitary Certificates:
1. Certificate for Export
Issued when the product is manufactured, processed, or packed in India and is being exported for the first time.
2. Certificate for Re-Export
Used when goods are exported to India and are subsequently re-exported to another nation, perhaps after repacking, relabelling, or mixing with other consignments.
Main Difference: Re-export certificates have both Indian inspection and data of the country of production.
Key Information in a Phytosanitary Certificate
A standard Phytosanitary Certificate will contain:
- Exporter & Importer Details – Names, addresses, phone numbers
- Description of Consignment – HS code, weight, quantity, packaging type
- Treatment Details – Type (e.g., fumigation), date, duration, and chemicals employed
- Inspection Findings – Confirmation of pest freedom in the products
- Official Declaration – Confirmation of conformity with importing country law
- Other Conditions – Special conditions, if any, from the importing government
Documents Required to Obtain a Phytosanitary Certificate
When applying for a PSC in India, you will need to submit the following:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- Bill of Lading or Shipping Bill
- Export License (as required by law)
- Application Form filed via the PQIS portal
Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining a Phytosanitary Certificate in India
Following is a step-by-step, in-depth process:
Step 1: Registration on PQIS Portal
Go to https://pqms.cgg.gov.in/pqms-angular/home and set up your exporter profile.
Step 2: Fill in Exporter and Product Details
Fill in all the required fields such as product name, scientific name, destination, and treatment details.
Step 3: Upload Documents Required
Upload invoice, packing list, shipping bill, etc.
Step 4: Booking of Inspection
Inspection can be needed at the origin point, warehouse, or port. Coordinate this with the authorized officer.
Step 5: Obtain Phytosanitary Treatment
Where required (e.g., fumigation), organize treatment of your consignment in a licensed treatment facility.
If your consignment requires fumigation, it’s important to understand the procedure and documentation involved. Learn more about the Fumigation Certificate for Exports – what it is, why it’s needed, and how to get it in India.
Step 6: Apply and Pay
Submit your application and pay fees via the portal.
Step 7: Certificate Issuance
Upon authentication, the certificate is delivered digitally or sent as a signed hard copy.
Smarter Shipping Begins Now – Discover Our Complete Digital Freight Platform.
Common Challenges & How to Avoid Delays
The majority of exporters experience preventable delays due to:
- Inadequate or wrong documentation
- Wrong HS code or product description
- No scientific names
- Booking delay for inspection or treatment
Preventing Delays Tips
- Starting application early in your export process
- Check importing country requirements
- Employ certified fumigation and inspection agents
- Seek advice from experienced export consultants such as Afleo for easy processing