Phytosanitary Certificate (PHYTO)

A Phytosanitary Certificate (often called a "Phyto") is an official health document issued by the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage (DPPQS) in India. It certifies that plants, plant products, or other regulated items (like timber or seeds) have been officially inspected, are free from quarantine pests/diseases, and conform to the specific health requirements of the importing country.

It is mandatory for exporting agricultural commodities across international borders. It is required for:

• Living Plants & Seeds: Nursery stock, bulbs, tubers, and seeds for sowing.

• Fresh Produce: Fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers.

• Grains & Spices: Raw grains, pulses, and unprocessed spices.

• Wood Packaging: Timber, wood crates, or raw cotton that could harbor wood-boring insects.

• Regulated Articles: Soil or organic growing media attached to plants.

Required Documents

• Export Credentials: Import-Export Code (IEC) and GST Registration.

• Shipment Details: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Shipping Bill/Airway Bill.

• Import Permit (IP): A copy of the import permit issued by the destination country (if applicable).

• Treatment Certificate: A Fumigation Certificate or Heat Treatment Certificate from an authorized provider.

• Identity Proof: Aadhaar and PAN of the authorized signatory.

• Laboratory Report: If the commodity required testing for specific pathogens.