1. Why did Madagascar decide to invest in the ePhyto Solution?

Following a training course organized by the United States Department of Agriculture, we decided to look into the ePhyto Solution.

Paper certificates can be falsified or get lost, slowing down export procedures, in particular Customs clearance. They are also time-consuming because traders have to go to inspection offices to request and collect certificates.

This convinced us to invest in the ePhyto Solution. However, implementing the new system was hampered by the outbreak of COVID-19, with frequent power cuts making virtual meetings difficult.

2. What changes have you seen since launching the ePhyto Solution?

The most obvious change is the speed with which certificates are issued. Using ePhytos reduces processing time. It also increases confidence in the authenticity of the documents.

At the international level, compliance with international standards gives importing countries much more confidence in what we do.

Using computers and other equipment enables our inspectors to work more efficiently, without having to print certificates. The efficiency of the system has also encouraged more women to make certification requests.

Archiving of certificates has also become easier now that documents are digital. All in all, we've seen a real revolution in how we work.

3. How many ePhytos does Madagascar exchange per month?

We issue, on average, more than 200 ePhytos per month. That's about 25% of all phytosanitary certificates issued.

4. How much time is being saved by using ePhytos?

Processing paper certificates used to take about 72 hours, and even up to a week sometimes, depending on the product. Now, it can be done in up to 48 hours.

5. How is the ePhyto system in Madagascar being financed?

The World Economic Forum through the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation is financing the project, including the purchase of computers, training and information sharing. This is with the active participation of Madagascar's National Trade Facilitation Committee.

An agreement with Madagascar's Agricultural Development Fund is also being finalized.

6. Can you share any stories from traders about their experiences using ePhytos?

According to the traders, it is now much easier for them. In the past, they had to contend with fraudulent freight forwarders, and they paid exorbitant prices. Now, they work directly with inspectors in a more transparent process.

At the start, traders were a little worried because it's a new system and they had security concerns. Through awareness raising and training, they have gained confidence in the system, with more and more asking to be trained.

7. What was the most challenging part of implementing the ePhyto project?

We had insufficient staff. So we had to ask our minister to hire more inspectors. Fortunately, many engineers and other technicians within the ministry asked to be transferred to other functions so we were able to add staff at borders.

8. What was the most rewarding part of implementing the ePhyto system?

The most gratifying thing, above all, was cooperation with donors, whether their support was material or in the form of technical expertise. For example, an expert worked with us to take account of all the steps affecting the total cost of certification. Without these technical experts, we could not have completed this project.

9. How do you see the role of women in using the ePhyto system?

Women played a big role in the implementation of the project. In the training courses, 138 out of 398 participants were women, representing about 30% of the total. That's already a big number.

10. Have you seen any impact on the environment, linked to using ePhytos?

Yes, we have seen a reduction in the use of paper. Travel has also been reduced, reducing the use of fuel.

11. What would you say to other countries considering using ePhytos?

It is in the interest of each country to get on board sooner rather than later. Do not hesitate because the ePhyto Solution is easy, fast and safe. By adopting this solution, you facilitate market access for plant products from your country. Don't be the last to join.

Contributed by the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)