The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has announced it can now issue an electronic version of its phytosanitary export certificates.

The certificates declare plants or plant products have been inspected and are free from pests. Article content

Recommended Videos Article content

Canada and Mexico will explore expanding the tool to other agriculture and agri-food products.

The move comes as part of the Canada-Mexico Action Plan announced in September.

Many countries rely on paper phytosanitary certificates, but these have major drawbacks, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

It said exporting companies found savings ranging from 25 cents to $5.98 per tonne for fruit shipments. Article content Article content

See Full Page