The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has begun issuing electronic phytosanitary certificates for grains shipped to Mexico, a move that is expected to reduce delays, and strengthen the integrity of cross-border shipments.
A phytosanitary export certificate is an official document sent from the CFIA to the importing country’s regulatory authority, confirming that the plants or plant products have been properly inspected, are free of regulated pests, and meet all phytosanitary requirements.
Transitioning from paper documents to secure electronic exchanges reduces the risk of fraud and eliminates the delivery lags associated with traditional mail, making trade more efficient and predictable for exporters, the CFIA said in a release Monday.
The initiative is part of a broader commitment between Canada and Mexico to deepen agricultural cooperation. Both countries have agreed to explore expanding electronic certification to additional agriculture and agri-food products, aligning with the Canada-Mexico Action Plan 2025–2028. The update also follows Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald’s recent trade mission to Mexico, aimed at strengthening commercial ties and promoting Canadian farm and food products.
For the CFIA, the shift to electronic certificates reflects a wider modernization effort focused on reducing red tape and improving ease of business for exporters. The agency is continuing to overhaul regulatory processes, expand online services, and support trade facilitation while maintaining high standards of plant health protection, the release said.
