Using electronic phytosanitary certificates (ePhytos) for exporting plants and plant products reduces trade costs, increases exporter margins and speeds up the delivery of fresh produce, ultimately boosting global agrifood trade.

A new report by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlights how digitalization simplifies cross-border trade by replacing paper-based certificates prone to delays, losses and additional costs.

The study, based on data from Serbia, Egypt, Ukraine and Uzbekistan, shows that ePhytos are cheaper, faster and more reliable than paper certificates. Exporters in Egypt could save up to $200,000 annually, while Uzbekistan exporters benefit from lower per-shipment costs.

The transition to ePhytos is relatively inexpensive, and integrating them with other digital trade systems (e.g., customs declarations) could unlock further savings. The report concludes that wider adoption of ePhytos will enhance efficiency, transparency and sustainability in global trade, offering actionable recommendations for public and private stakeholders.

Read the full article on FAO Investment Centre.