The Canadian market is open: how Ukrainian apples are reaching a new export level

In March 2025, Canada officially opened its market to Ukrainian apples of the Malus domestica variety, which became a landmark event for domestic agricultural exports. In response, the State Service of Ukraine for Food Safety and Consumer Protection (SFSCP) presented detailed requirements and an algorithm of actions for exporters seeking to enter the Canadian market.

In order to be able to supply apples to Canada, Ukrainian producers, packers and exporters must register with the SFSCP and be included in the official List of Allowed Exporters. This can be achieved only if strict phytosanitary standards established by the Canadian Food Quality Control Agency are met.

The first stage involves submitting an application to the territorial body of the SFSCP at the place of operation. Specialists must conduct an inspection of production areas, warehouses, sorting and packing places for apples for the presence of harmful organisms subject to control in accordance with Canadian requirements. All results must be documented in the form of an official inspection report.

The next step is to send a letter of application to the State Service for Food and Consumer Protection, to which a copy of the report is attached. The application must indicate the name and address of the enterprise in Ukrainian and English. After a positive review, the enterprise is included in the List and receives permission for further actions.

After being included in the list of permitted ones, the exporter must apply for a phytosanitary certificate. At the same time, the Canadian side must also issue an import permit for each consignment. Without this, the products will not be able to cross the border.

In addition to fulfilling all requirements at the stage of preparation for export, producers must also guarantee the safety of products during storage, packaging and transportation. If contamination or non-compliance is detected during inspections, the enterprise may be temporarily excluded from the program. The State Food and Consumer Protection Service emphasizes the importance of traceability of each batch - this is a key factor in trust from Canadian partners.

Thus, the opening of the Canadian market for Ukrainian apples opens up new prospects for agricultural exports, while requiring high standards and strict adherence to procedures at all stages of the production and logistics chain.