Importation of Aquatic Plants - From 1st June 2008 the PHSI will hold all consignments where there are deficiencies in the completion of phytosanitary certificates
The Plant Health (England) Order 2005 requires that all plants for planting imported into the UK are accompanied by a valid phytosanitary certificate. The Plant Health and Seeds Inspectorate (PHSI) need to carry out a documentary check on the certificate in order to ensure that it carries the required information and is valid. This check must be carried out before the goods are cleared by HM Customs. If the check fails then the goods cannot be cleared. During recent checks it appears that in many cases the phytosanitary certificates for aquatic plants are not carrying the additional declarations required by the order.
Schedule 4A of the order lists the restrictions and requirements placed on material that requires a phytosanitary certificate. These conditions are dependent on the genera and nature of the material being imported. The majority of aquatic plants would be classed as herbaceous plants for planting. The exporting country needs to ensure that the requirements for each item in Schedule 4 that is appropriate to the material can be met before the phytosanitary certificate is issued. In addition where the item provides a choice of options as to how the condition may be met then the phytosanitary certificate must make clear, by way of an additional declaration, which of the options have been taken. The additional declaration can either cite the wording in the Order (or Directive) or make reference to the item number e.g. Fulfils item 32.1a of Annex IVAI of Plant Health Directive (2000/29/EC) as amended.
From 1st June 2008 the PHSI will hold all consignments where there are deficiencies in the completion of phytosanitary certificates.
Annex 1 gives an example of one of the additional declarations required for herbaceous plants.
It would also assist inspectors with their inspections (and minimise any delays to the trade) if importers could arrange for each box to be accurately labelled with the contents. This will enable Inspectors to select material for inspection. It also means that, should a pest or disease infestation be found on a particular species of plant, it will potentially facilitate the removal of that species from other boxes. If this is not possible it may be necessary for us to detain and destroy the entire consignment.
Please ensure that suppliers are aware of the above requirements. If you have any queries about this matter please contact your local plant health inspector.
Page last modified:
12 May 2008
Page published: 12 May 2008