Imports of goods lodged under Schedule 3 of Australia's current tariff classification: horticultural fresh produce, cut flowers, seeds, plants and other plant-based commodities.
Australia's importing country requirements for phytosanitary certificates from 1 May 2023
This notice provides further information to G/SPS/N/AUS/558 by clarifying Australia's importing country requirements for phytosanitary certificates that have been electronically stamped/signed and where they include a QR code or weblink to enable online verification of the document.
Australia accepts the following formats of phytosanitary certificates:
1. Original, and certified copies, of phytosanitary certificates (paper or pdf) issued by trading partners that have been dated, stamped and signed.
Phytosanitary certificates that do not have a pen-inked signature, printed signature, wet stamp or printed stamp must meet all of the below criteria:
a. A stamp or logo on the document of the exporting NPPO;
b. An electronic signature and/or a statement from the exporting authority that the phytosanitary certificate is electronically signed/approved;
c. A QR code or weblink to enable online verification of the document.
2. Electronic certificates delivered via an agreed, secure government-to-government digital exchange, known as electronic certification or ePhyto/eCert. As of May 2023, Australia currently only has such an arrangement with New Zealand for use in import clearance.
Australia supports the move to electronic certification (ePhyto/eCert) and paperless trade in import clearance. Electronic certification offers assessment efficiencies, improved security and assurance of the validity of documentation when issued via government-to-government electronic exchange.
Countries wishing to send ePhytos/eCerts to Australia are encouraged to contact the department via the Australian IPPC contact point (ippc.contactpoint@agriculture.gov.au) to ensure the necessary systems are in place prior to commencing paperless trade.
Paper certification continues to be required until paperless trade is bilaterally negotiated between Australia and the exporting NPPO.