Australia’s importing country requirements for phytosanitary certificates from 1 May 2023

This notification describes Australia's requirements for the acceptance of paper phytosanitary certificates for the importation of plant-based goods into Australia from 1 May 2023.Clarification is required due to the cessation of an interim policy during the peak impacts of COVID-19 and the presentation of hard (paper) copies of phytosanitary certificates that are not signed, dated and stamped in accordance with ISPM 12.From 1 May 2023, paper phytosanitary certificates must have all required information in accordance with ISPM12, including being signed, dated and stamped. This applies to all paper phytosanitary certificates dated on or after 1 May 2023.Australia will not accept paper phytosanitary certificates dated on or after 1 May 2023 presented with QR codes only and without a signature, date and stamp.Australia will not accept ePhytos or eCerts without prior agreement and arrangements for electronic exchange. Paper certification in accordance with ISPM 12 will continue to be required until ePhytos or eCerts are bilaterally negotiated between Australia and the exporting NPPO.Details of the notification are provided in the following Industry Advice Notice:https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/import/industry-advice/2023/02-2023