Beijing, China — On 10 September 2025, ISF joined CNSTA and APSA in co-hosting the International Workshop on Phytosanitary Measures and Standards in Beijing. The workshop gathered NPPOs, customs officials, seed associations, and companies to exchange experiences on harmonizing
phytosanitary practices for safe and efficient seed trade.
In his opening remarks, ISF President Arthur Santosh Attavar emphasized the need for science-based and harmonized standards that both protect plant health and enable global food security.
ISF Phytosanitary Affairs Manager Dr. Rose Souza Richards presented on “Facilitating Seed Trade through Systems Approach and ePhyto Implementation,” highlighting industry practices that already mitigate pest risks, and stressing the importance of digital tools such as ePhyto, now used in 96 countries
“Our vision is clear: one globally accepted systems approach for phytosanitary certification, supported by a science-based pest list and a fully digital certification system through ePhyto,” Dr. Souza Richards stated. “This vision reduces complexity, secures the safe movement of seed, and supports resilient food systems worldwide.”
The workshop concluded with technical discussions on diagnostics, pest risk analysis, and opportunities for collaboration beyond 2026, reinforcing ISF’s commitment to risk-based, trade-enabling phytosanitary solutions. #
