Export Certificates for Foodstuffs and Other Products of Animal and Plant Origin

Export certificates for foodstuffs and other products of animal and plant origin are used to ensure that the product fulfils the requirements set for the export outside the EU. The requirements for export certificates vary depending on the product and the country of destination. For instance, a veterinary certificate (eläinlääkintötodistus) or a free sale certificate is required for exports of animal-based products, an export certificate for organic products is required for exports of organic products, and a free sale certificate or a phytosanitary certificate (kasvinterveystodistus) is required for exports of plant-based feed.

Depending on the product, the export certificate is issued by the local control authority or the Finnish Food Authority (Ruokavirasto). The company is responsible for ensuring that their product meets the requirements of the country of destination. An export certificate may cover one export consignment only or be valid for one year, depending on the certificate type.

Requirements

  • Products: Foodstuffs, animals, embryos, germ cells, plants, wood products, feed, fertilizers, and by-products.
  • Compliance: The company is responsible for ensuring that the product meets the requirements of the country of destination.
  • Certificate type: The certificate varies depending on the product and country of destination (veterinary certificate, free sale certificate, organic export certificate, phytosanitary certificate).
  • Certificate model: If Finland or the EU have agreed with the country of destination on an official model export certificate, it must be used. Otherwise, use the general certificate formulated by the Finnish Food Authority, which must be approved by the destination country authorities in advance.

Procedure

  • Destination country requirements: Verify the export conditions from the country of destination and ensure that your company and product meet them.
  • Application: Submit all necessary documents to the issuing authority (local control authority or Finnish Food Authority) in good time.
  • Validity: Consignment-specific certificates (e.g., veterinary certificate) cover one export consignment. Free sale certificates are usually valid for one year.
  • Export: The issued export certificate is sent with the export consignment to the country of destination and inspected during border formalities.

Restrictions

  • EU area: Export certificates are required only for products exported outside the European Union.
  • Establishment: If a business operator is established in another European Economic Area state and provides services temporarily in Finland, the same permits are required as for operators established in Finland.