Export or move animal germplasm (semen, ova and embryos)

This guidance applies to businesses in Great Britain (GB) (England, Scotland and Wales) exporting or moving animal germplasm (semen, ova and embryos) to, or through:

Some countries have import rules for germplasm. You can check by talking to your importer or getting help researching your export market.

You need an export health certificate (EHC) to export germplasm.

There are different rules if you’re exporting germplasm from endangered animals.

Export or move germplasm to the EU or NI

Check the EHC finder to see if a certificate exists for your germplasm.

If you find an EHC, follow the EHC process to export.

If you cannot find an EHC, you’ll need to contact the competent authority in NI or the EU country you’re exporting to, in advance, to find out what:

The competent authority means the equivalent of the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in the EU country you’re exporting to. DAERA is the competent authority in NI.

If the competent authority says that you need an EHC, you’ll need to get their import conditions. Then contact APHA using their online form. They will arrange an EHC for you.

You’ll need to be listed as an approved establishment with the EU if you export germplasm. Contact APHA Centre for International Trade to be listed.

Checks at EU BCPs or point of entry in NI

You must get your germplasm checked at an EU BCP or point of entry in NI, from 1 January 2021.

Your goods may be refused entry, seized, destroyed or returned to GB if they arrive at: