How to obtain an Additional Declaration

Many countries require Additional Declarations (AD's) to be noted on their Phytosanitary Certificates. AD's are statements required by an importing country which provide specific information on a consignment in relation to regulated pests.

These declarations must meet all of the following three conditions before they can be documented;

1. The AD must be an official requirement from the importing country (i.e.: being listed on an Import Permit)

2. Must be based on activities performed in the US (for Phyto’s issued in the US)

3. Must be verified by an ACO (Accredited Certification Official) and supported by documentation.

Once all three conditions above have been met, the AD is subject to one of the following five criteria for certification. (* Denotes FAO/IPPC/ISPM12 – recommended wording.)

Lab Test (Seed Health Testing)

An official exam, other than visual, to determine if pests are present or to identify particular pests. These lab tests are good for life of the lot.

* “The consignment was tested according to (method) and found free from…(name of pest(s))”

Field Inspection

For the purpose of export certification, USDA-APHIS-PPQ recognizes all State and County field inspection reports as well as those issued by entities accredited under the NSHS (National Seed Health System).

* “The place of production (site/field) was inspected during the growing season(s) and found free from... (name of pest(s))

Pest free area

An area in which a specific pest does not occur as demonstrated by scientific evidence and in which, where appropriate, this condition is being officially maintained.

* “The consignment was produced in a pest free area for … (name of pest(s))”

Does not occur in the US

The ACO’s uses resources in their state, a county entomologist, or websites such as CABI or EPPO.

* “…. (name of pest) is not known to occur in … (name of country/area)”

Visual Inspection (Visual Exam/P&D)

ACOs must visually inspect all shipments for pests (weed seeds, insects, signs and symptoms of disease, soil, etc.) {USDA/APHIS, XPM}

* “The consignment was inspected and found free from …. (name of pest(s), soil, etc.)”

Once one of the requirements have been met, your ACO will use the table below to input the AD on your Phytosanitary Certificate.

For more information, contact AgCultured Consulting.