Importing and exporting plants and plant products

Exports of certain plants may be prohibited by the importing country.

Where exports are permitted, the regulated plants or plant products must normally be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate.

This confirms that the plants or plant products to which it relates have been officially inspected in the country of origin (or country of dispatch), comply with statutory requirements for entry into the importing country and are free from quarantine pests and diseases.

It is the responsibility of the individual wishing to export the regulated plant or plant-related products to check with the importing (receiving) country what statutory requirements must be met to allow entry to that particular country.

Businesses or individuals wishing to export plants to third countries (countries outside of the European Union) must request a phytosanitary certificate from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).

As it may be necessary to carry out certain checks before issuing a phytosanitary certificate, you should submit a phytosanitary certificate application to DAERA at the earliest opportunity.

Find out how to get a phytosanitary certificate.