Uzbekistan has digitalized key phytosanitary control processes, ranging from the export and import of quarantine-regulated products to field monitoring and pest control. E-FitoUz information platform has been integrated into the international ePhyto Solutions system, enabling electronic document exchange with more than 100 countries. This integration enhances supply chain transparency, helps detect fraudulent phytosanitary certificates, and allows relevant services to receive advance notification of product movements. At the same time, border infrastructure is being strengthened. To date, dozens of border checkpoints have been modernized for plant quarantine. In addition, laboratory operations have been brought into compliance with international requirements.
«The Agency envisages strengthening the material and technical base of border checkpoints through reconstruction and the installation of necessary equipment. To date, 76 plant quarantine border checkpoints have been renovated. In addition, more than 500 border checkpoint personnel have upgraded their qualifications through international programs. As a result, the system has improved and phytosanitary inspection times have been reduced,» noted Dilafruz Arifkhanova, Adviser to the General Director, Agency of Plant Protection and Quarantine, Uzbekistan.
Special attention is being paid to exports. Modern phytosanitary procedures make it possible to confirm in advance that products meet international requirements and to reduce the risk of shipment returns. This is important as Uzbekistan prepares to join the WTO. Inspections are carried out at the Central Phytosanitary Laboratory, which holds international accreditation and is equipped with modern facilities. In addition, a number of amendments have been made to the legislation of the country. Last year, Uzbekistan’s food exports exceeded $3 billion, with products supplied to 83 countries.
«As part of Uzbekistan’s WTO accession process, experts in the field of phytosanitary were engaged, with their participation leading to a revision of terminology and national legislation. This has subsequently enabled professional dialogue with other WTO member states. In addition, international standards have been implemented into the Law On Plant Quarantine,» said Gairat Ergashev, designated staff member at the Agency of Plant Protection and Quarantine, Uzbekistan.
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