Phytosanitary regulations within the EU continue to evolve, and an important change will take effect on 6 July 2026.
From that date onward, phytosanitary certificates for import must include a complete RNQP endorsement on the phytosanitary certificate, covering all relevant requirements for regulated non‑quarantine organisms (RNQP’s). This requirement is an addition to the existing obligations for EU quarantine organisms (Q‑organisms).
For both importers and exporters, this means that certificates must be prepared with greater accuracy. If the endorsement is missing in whole or in part, or if it is incorrect, the inspection service will hold the shipment until a correct replacement certificate has been submitted.
What exactly is changing?
The new requirement applies exclusively to plants intended for planting. The EU regulates RNQP organisms only for this category. This includes cuttings, young plants, seeds, and other plant material intended for further cultivation.
The additional endorsements that become mandatory from 2026 are described in EU Regulation 2025/2249. This makes it clearer for import shipments which RNQP requirements the exporting country has checked and confirmed.
Key considerations for exporters in third countries
For exporters outside the EU, it is important to anticipate these new requirements in good time. The wording of the RNQP endorsements is very similar to that of Q‑organisms, but there are several important nuances:
- Some products require multiple endorsements.
- RNQP requirements are linked to plant species, product category, and intended use.
- Different requirements may apply to the same plant species, depending on its intended use.
For example: seeds of a particular species intended for ornamental use may have different RNQP requirements than seeds of the same species intended for use as an oilseed or fibre crop.
The EU publishes minimum wording for each product category (Annex V). In addition, just as with Q‑organisms, a “Checklist RNQP endorsements” will be introduced in due course to help exporters prepare certificates correctly.
Stricter document checks from 6 July 2026
From the date of entry into force, the inspection service — such as Naktuinbouw — will verify during the document check whether:
- the endorsements for Q‑organisms are correct, and
- the new RNQP endorsements are fully and accurately included.
If this is not the case, the inspection service will hold the shipment. Only once a correct replacement certificate has been submitted and the inspection service finds no regulated organisms will the shipment be released.
What does this mean for businesses?
For importers and exporters in the ornamental plant sector, nursery stock, and vegetable seeds, this change means that:
- certificates must be checked more carefully before shipment
- exporters in third countries must be informed in good time about the new requirements
- incomplete or incorrect certificates may lead to delays and additional costs
It is therefore advisable to start preparing processes, documentation, and communication with foreign suppliers well in advance.
More information can be found on the official website of the Naktuinbouw and NVWA.
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