Moldova joins global ePhyto network for electronic phytosanitary certificates
This week, the Republic of Moldova successfully joined the international hub for electronic phytosanitary certification known as ePhyto. This unique and centralized system enables the digital exchange of phytosanitary certificates between national authorities in various countries. By doing so, it significantly reduces the risks associated with printed documents, eliminates the possibility of forgery, and accelerates both export and import processes.
Integration into the ePhyto network enhances the Republic of Moldova's position as an innovation-oriented state that adopts advanced digital solutions to protect its agricultural economy and improve access for its products in foreign markets, stated Viorel Chetrari, head of the Plant Protection Department at the National Food Safety Agency.
“By joining this hub, the agency is making significant progress for economic agents and exporters. When completing the phytosanitary certificate, the system automatically transmits data to the international ePhyto platform, allowing the importing country to receive it in real-time. As a result, economic agents no longer need to submit paper documents or manually transmit certificates. The entire process becomes electronic, secure, and efficient.”
According to Chetrari, the Republic of Moldova's accession to the international hub for phytosanitary certification ePhyto marks a crucial milestone in the country’s digital transformation.
He noted that this achievement was made possible through effective collaboration between the National Food Safety Agency and the Electronic Government Agency, which have worked together to digitize public services and integrate Moldova into global data exchange networks. Together, these institutions secured the technical and operational connection to this hub, adhering to the standards set by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the requirements of the International Plant Protection Convention.
“Currently, over 100 countries are using the ePhyto platform, and Moldova's participation in this system signifies our alignment with other nations in the international exchange of phytosanitary certificates in electronic format. This initiative aligns with Moldova's strategy to adopt European standards in support of trade agreements. Electronic certification represents a move towards greater transparency, speed, and competitiveness for the country’s export sector.”
We remind you that the National Food Safety Agency issues over 30,000 phytosanitary certificates annually for the export of plant products to partner countries.
