International trade in plant material requires care and a solid understanding of the correct documentation. Whether it concerns seeds, young plants, trees or flower bulbs, every product must comply with the phytosanitary requirements of both the country of origin and the country of destination.
In the Netherlands, four accredited inspection services carry out these inspections under the supervision of the NVWA: KCB, Naktuinbouw, NAK and BKD. They oversee different sectors and safeguard the quality and health of plant material.
Import from Third Countries
When importing plant material from outside the EU, the importer must obtain an import phytosanitary certificate. The country of origin issues this certificate to demonstrate that the consignment meets European import requirements. The importer must pre‑notify the consignment digitally. Upon arrival, a phytosanitary import inspection is carried out at an approved location. After approval by the inspection service, the NVWA and Customs, the material may be processed or further traded.
Trade and Transit Within the EU
Within the EU, different obligations apply compared to import. For many high‑risk categories, a plant passport is mandatory. This passport confirms that the material may be freely traded within the EU and complies with European phytosanitary requirements. As a result, growers, traders and exporters can move their products safely and with full traceability.
In addition, some EU Member States impose supplementary requirements on top of the standard EU rules. In such cases, the consignor must request a pre‑export certificate. This certificate demonstrates that the material meets the specific requirements of the receiving EU country. Pre‑export certificates are particularly relevant when consignments are transiting through the Netherlands to a Member State with additional conditions.
IVI – Instruction for Import Permit
For certain products or destinations, an import permit is required. The conditions for this permit are described in an IVI (Import Permit Instruction). This instruction outlines the steps, inspections and additional declarations needed before a consignment may be imported or transited. The IVI therefore forms an important link between import regulations, country‑specific requirements and the final certification process.
e‑CertNL and Digital Chain Registration
All phytosanitary certification is handled through e‑CertNL, the digital system used by inspection services, the NVWA and exporters. The system links inspection data, consignment information and certificates, creating a transparent and efficient chain from production to export. IVI information and additional requirements from third countries are also integrated into e‑CertNL, ensuring that certificates can be issued fully and correctly.
Export Outside the EU
For exports to countries outside the EU, an export phytosanitary certificate is mandatory. The inspection service performs a physical inspection and assesses whether the material meets the requirements of the destination country. Once approved, the inspector endorses the certificate and the consignment can be released.
When previously imported goods are re‑exported, the exporter uses a re‑export certificate. This document confirms that the material originally came from a third country. Finally, an exporter may request a replacement certificate if a previously issued certificate is incorrect or has been lost.
Phytosanitary Service Desk
My phytosanitary service desk supports companies in preparing phytosanitary certificates, guiding import and export processes, and providing training on legislation, documentation and practical implementation. This ensures that your international trade proceeds smoothly, professionally and fully in accordance with applicable requirements.
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