Jordan Phytosanitary Certificate Legalization

Plant Health Paperwork for U.S. Agricultural Exports to Jordan

Jordan imports most of its grain and much of its animal feed, and U.S. suppliers ship wheat, corn, soybean meal, rice, nuts, apples and other produce to Aqaba. Jordan’s state grain purchases are made through tenders run by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply, while plant health at the border is controlled by the Ministry of Agriculture. Every consignment needs a phytosanitary certificate from USDA APHIS, and some buyers and tenders want it legalized by the Embassy of Jordan.

Jordan’s import conditions

The Ministry of Agriculture’s plant protection services set the conditions for imported plants and plant products, often through an import permit obtained by the Jordanian importer before shipment. The permit can require additional declarations, such as freedom from particular pests or diseases, and treatments such as fumigation. APHIS must include those statements on the certificate in the wording required, so obtain the permit conditions before booking the APHIS inspection.

Grain tenders

Jordan’s wheat and barley tenders typically specify a full document package: phytosanitary certificate, fumigation certificate, official weight and grade certificates, certificate of origin and sometimes certificates on specific contaminants. Some tender terms ask for documents to be legalized. Vessel name, quantity and loading port must match across all certificates and the bill of lading, because discrepancies can delay discharge in Aqaba and payment under the tender.

Fresh produce and seasonal rules

Jordan protects local growers by restricting imports of certain fruits and vegetables at times of the year when domestic supply is plentiful. The lists are adjusted from season to season. Before shipping fresh produce, confirm with your importer that the product may be imported on the expected arrival date.

Legalization route

APHIS is a federal agency, so its certificate skips the notary and Secretary of State. We present it to the U.S. Department of State, then to the Embassy of Jordan in Washington, D.C., using the Jordanian MFA portal for registration and payment and adding the second copy the embassy holds. Expect about five working days at the embassy. Jordan does not accept apostilles. Plant shipments move quickly, so send us the certificate as soon as APHIS issues it.