Taking a decisive step toward the digitalization of trade flows, Chile, together with China, has launched a system for fully digital phytosanitary certification. The initiative strengthens the competitiveness of Chilean agricultural exports, particularly cherries, grapes, and plums, most of which are destined for the Chinese market.
The Chilean Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero (SAG) has officially launched a pilot project for electronic phytosanitary certification with the People's Republic of China, without the use of paper-based documents. The plan, which began on November 1st, is the result of a bilateral agreement made during the Chilean Ministry of Agriculture’s Asian mission last May.
With approximately 25% of Chile’s agricultural exports bound for China, the implementation of a fully digital system represents a strategic milestone. This is a significant step forward that not only enhances safety and traceability but also improves the efficiency of the entire export process.
As emphasized by SAG’s interim national director, Rodrigo Sotomayor, this digital partnership with China makes Chile one of the few countries in the world to have implemented electronic phytosanitary certification with Beijing.
The system is based on the ePhyto (Electronic Phytosanitary Certification) agreement, fully adopted in a paperless format. Since 2019, Chile has progressively extended this approach to over 42 countries, issuing approximately 143,000 electronic certificates annually—accounting for 75% of the total—through the "Multipuerto" system.
The new digital format covers a wide range of products: fresh produce (including cherries, grapes, and plums), grains, flowers, timber, and plant propagation materials such as seeds and bulbs. The direct benefits for exporters are substantial: less bureaucracy, cost reductions, faster delivery times, and improved phytosanitary reliability in international markets.
With this step forward, SAG reinforces its role as a key player in the digitalization of Chile's agricultural sector. The initiative not only raises standards of sustainability and transparency, but also aligns the country with the world’s best practices in facilitating international trade.
With the export of cherries and other fresh fruits at the core of Chile–China trade relations, the future of the sector increasingly relies on smart technologies and integrated processes.
Text and image source: diariofruticola.cl
04 Mar 2025
The summer in the central part of Chile, characterised by high temperatures and intense radiation, can generate stress in the plants and affect good flowering and budding in spring.
26 Mar 2024
The USDA investigated vacuum steam as an alternative to methyl bromide treatment for fresh fruit. The ultimate goal is to establish heat treatment programmes that preserve the integrity of a product and completely eliminate target infestations.
18 Sep 2025
A recent study in Poland confirms the effectiveness of 1-MCP in extending sweet cherry shelf life. The treatment reduces weight loss and preserves visual and nutritional quality. Promising results for Kordia and Regina varieties after 21 days in cold storage.
18 Sep 2025
New research shows that cherries, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, can lower the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, stroke and heart disease. Including them daily supports cardiovascular health, blood sugar regulation and overall wellbeing.
