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The Canary Islands, with their natural richness and unique biodiversity, are a paradise in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. However, this uniqueness also entails the responsibility to protect and preserve its delicate ecosystem. Moreover, as an exporting territory of plant products such as bananas or tomatoes, it is crucial to comply with all guidelines set by importing countries in the field of phytosanitary safety.
Due to the particularities of the phytosanitary environment in the Canary Islands, specific regulations are required to regulate this area. This regulation is established through the Order of March 12, 1987, which establishes the phytosanitary standards applicable to the import, export, and transit of plants and plant products.
The mentioned Order establishes a detailed list of plants and plant products whose importation is prohibited in the Canary Islands, as well as those that must undergo mandatory inspection upon entering the territory. Additionally, packaging and other wooden products are subject to mandatory health control, as they could serve as a pathway for the entry and spread of harmful organisms.
For more information on wooden packaging, please review our article “ISPM 15 Standard on Wooden Packaging.”
Phytosanitary controls on imports to the Canary Islands
Phytosanitary controls play a crucial role in preventing the spread of pests and diseases that could affect the health and productivity of Canary Islands’ flora. In this regard, these controls not only protect the health of local flora but also safeguard the agriculture and food security of the region.
What products must undergo phytosanitary controls when imported into the Canary Islands and what is the procedure?
- Plants (live plants, seeds, planting materials, etc.).
- Fresh plant products (fruits and vegetables).
To carry out imports of phytosanitary products in the Canary Islands, it is necessary to be registered as an importer. Additionally, depending on the type of merchandise and the country of origin, it may be mandatory to have a phytosanitary certificate issued by an official body recognized by that country. Subsequently, all required documentation must be submitted.
Later, the plant health service will determine whether the merchandise should undergo a physical inspection or simply a documentary one, depending on its nature.
Phytosanitary controls on exports from the Canary Islands
When exporting goods subject to phytosanitary control from the Canary Islands, it is essential to ensure compliance with the standards set to prevent the transmission of pests or diseases that could compromise the plant health of other regions.
It is important to note that the Canary Islands are considered a third country from a phytosanitary perspective, both for the rest of Spain and for the rest of the European Union. This implies that the phytosanitary authorities of the Canary Islands apply strict controls to ensure that exported goods comply with international phytosanitary regulations and do not pose any risk to the agriculture and environment of other regions.
What products must undergo phytosanitary controls when exported from the Canary Islands and what is the procedure?
- Plants (live plants, seeds, planting materials, etc.).
- Fresh plant products (fruits and vegetables).
After requesting phytosanitary control, the Plant Health Service will evaluate the type of merchandise to determine whether it requires a documentary or physical inspection, known as positioning.
