Representatives of the Border Phytosanitary Inspection Department of the Plant Protection Directorate of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management of the Republic of Serbia participated in a study visit to the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) under the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature, and Food Quality of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The study visit took place from September 24 to 27, 2024, as part of the project "EU Support for Efficient Border Management," funded by the European Union.
During the first day, Serbian representatives visited the NVWA headquarters, where they were introduced to the organization and functioning of this institution. This was an opportunity to exchange experiences regarding obligations stemming from EU regulations related to phytosanitary inspection.
On the second day, participants visited the Quality Control Bureau (QCB), where they gained insight into inspection procedures during plant imports. NVWA representatives presented the use of information systems in phytosanitary inspection processes, with particular emphasis on procedures at the Port of Rotterdam, one of Europe’s most significant import hubs.
Numerous key topics for border phytosanitary inspection and plant import regulations were covered on the second day, including prior notification and shipment registration via online platforms, as well as the integration of Dutch national systems with the TRACES NT system of the European Union. Additionally, the second day addressed the control of transit shipments in compliance with EU regulations, including the collection of transit fees. Special attention was given to the application of IT systems for document and information management during inspection procedures and the retention periods for these documents.
On the third day, discussions focused on new EU regulations for seeds, including the control of regulated non-quarantine pests and procedures for issuing plant passports and phytosanitary certificates. Topics such as pesticide treatment of seeds, labeling of treated seeds, and methods for conducting professional inspections were also discussed.
Participants expressed great satisfaction with the organization and content of the study visit. They gained valuable insights into the practices and methodologies applied in the Netherlands, which will significantly contribute to improving the work of border phytosanitary inspection in Serbia.
"This visit allowed us to become acquainted with modern systems and procedures in the field of phytosanitary inspection, which will help us apply best practices and further ensure the quality and safety of products imported into our country," said one of the participants.