Ukraine is preparing for a large-scale digitization of plant protection. Instead of paper documents, QR codes are planned to be introduced, and interactions between businesses and government agencies will be transitioned to an electronic format. This was reported by Dengi.ua , citing the press service of the Ministry of Economy.
It is noted that one of the key changes will be mandatory state registration for all professional market participants working with plants and plant products that require phytosanitary certificates or passports. This requirement will apply to distributors of plant protection products, agricultural consultants, specialized laboratories, as well as companies engaged in technical inspection of equipment and training of specialists. At the same time, private farms selling small volumes of produce directly to end consumers without engaging in distance sales will be exempt from registration. The same exemption applies to companies engaged exclusively in the transportation of goods.
It is reported that all administrative procedures between businesses and the government will be conducted through the automated PHIS (Phytosanitary Inspection System). Thanks to its integration with the “Trembita” data exchange platform, the system will be able to automatically verify a user’s identity via “Diia.Signature,” as well as retrieve the necessary data from state registries, including USREOU (company registration) and KVED (economic activity) codes.
In addition, the reform provides for the creation of a unified identification system for market participants. Each registered entity will be assigned a unique alphanumeric code indicating its status and authority. Separate designations will be assigned to professional users of plant protection products, distributors, agricultural consultants, laboratories, and organizations authorized to issue plant passports or mark wooden containers. For example, distributors will be assigned the code D, and agricultural consultants will be assigned the code A.
A special U1 marker is also provided for users of Class I hazardous pesticides. This marker can only be obtained after completing specialized training and passing an exam. Without it, it will be impossible to legally purchase such chemicals.
Another key element of the reform will be a system of full product traceability. Every phytosanitary certificate, plant passport, or container label will be equipped with a unique QR code. This will allow inspectors in the field or at customs to quickly obtain information about a product’s origin, laboratory test results, and the legality of its use.
Companies will also be required to update their registration data in a timely manner whenever changes occur. If counterfeit products or serious violations are detected, registration may be terminated immediately, and the business entity may be removed from the system as early as the following day.
“The transition to digital tools is a requirement of European integration and also simplifies conditions for Ukrainian businesses. Thanks to the integration of the PHIS and “Trembita” platforms, we are completely eliminating corruption risks and reducing the time it takes to process applications to just a few days. The new system guarantees unprecedented product traceability, which will open a green corridor to the EU for legitimate exporters and reliably protect our market from counterfeits. At the same time, the government has minimized any regulatory pressure on small producers,” said Deputy Minister of Economy Taras Vysotsky.
It is also noted that the development of this unified digital platform aligns with the Law of Ukraine “On State Regulation of the Plant Protection Sector,” which will fully enter into force on January 17, 2028.