Phytosanitary Certificate (PSC) for Export from India

A Phytosanitary Certificate (PSC) is an essential document issued for the export of plants, plant products, and agricultural commodities to certify that they are free from pests and diseases as per the regulations of the importing country.

📌 Issued By: Plant Quarantine Authorities, Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage (DPPQS), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India
📌 Regulated Under: Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order, 2003
📌 Applicable To: Fruits, vegetables, grains, spices, timber, flowers, seeds, plants, etc.
📌 Purpose: Ensures the safety of agricultural products and prevents the spread of pests

Products Requiring a Phytosanitary Certificate

✅ Fruits & Vegetables – Mangoes, bananas, pomegranates, grapes, onions, potatoes, etc.
✅ Grains & Cereals – Wheat, rice, maize, pulses, etc.
✅ Spices & Herbs – Turmeric, coriander, cardamom, black pepper, etc.
✅ Seeds & Planting Material – Seeds for cultivation, saplings, nursery plants.
✅ Timber & Wood Products – Processed wood, logs, wooden packaging materials.
✅ Flowers & Ornamental Plants – Fresh-cut flowers, bonsai, decorative plants.

How to Apply for a Phytosanitary Certificate?

1. Online Application via PQIS (Plant Quarantine Information System)

📌 Portal: https://pqis.da.gov.in
📌 Steps to Apply:
1️ Register on the PQIS Portal (if not registered).
2️ Submit an online application with details of the product, exporter, importer, and destination country.
3️Upload Required Documents (Invoice, Packing List, Test Reports).
4️ Schedule Inspection by Plant Quarantine (PQ) Authorities.
5️ Pay the Fees (Varies by product & quantity).
6️ Obtain the Phytosanitary Certificate after clearance.

Documents Required for a Phytosanitary Certificate

📜 Export Invoice & Packing List – Details of exported goods.
📜 Import Permit from the Destination Country – If required.
📜 Test Reports – Laboratory analysis for pest & disease-free certification.
📜 Fumigation Certificate – If mandatory for the importing country.
📜 Shipping Bill / Airway Bill – Proof of export.

Phytosanitary Inspection & Certification Process

🔹 Step 1: Submit an application with product details.
🔹 Step 2: Physical Inspection by Plant Quarantine (PQ) Officers at an approved facility or port.
🔹 Step 3: Pest & Disease Testing (if necessary).
🔹 Step 4: Fumigation/Heat Treatment (if required by importing country).
🔹 Step 5: If the product meets phytosanitary standards, the certificate is issued.

Phytosanitary Certificate Sample Format

Government of India
Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage

🔹 Phytosanitary Certificate
Certificate No: PSC/2024/IN/00123
Exporter: ABC Agro Pvt. Ltd., India
Importer: XYZ Traders LLC, USA
Description of Goods: 5000 kg Fresh Mangoes
HS Code: 08045020
Treatment Applied: Hot Water Treatment (HWT)
Inspection Date: 10-Apr-2024
Issuing Authority: Plant Quarantine Station, Mumbai, India

✅ Certified Pest-Free & Meets Importing Country’s Phytosanitary Requirements

Authorized Signatory
(Signature & Official Seal)

Why is a Phytosanitary Certificate Important?

✅ Mandatory for Agricultural Exports – Without PSC, shipments can be rejected.
✅ Prevents the Spread of Pests & Diseases – Ensures biosecurity compliance.
✅ Required for Customs Clearance in Importing Country – Many countries will not allow agricultural imports without a valid PSC.
✅ Ensures Market Access & Trade Compliance – Meets destination country regulations.