Figs split into two compliance stories: fresh figs, with phytosanitary and fruit-fly concerns plus MRLs, and dried figs, where aflatoxin and moisture control headline a processed-food profile. This guide sets out what an importer and exporter need to move Egyptian figs cleanly.

Quick answer: Fresh figs need a phytosanitary certificate (figs are a fruit-fly host), compliance with destination MRLs (EU: Regulation (EC) No 396/2005), and GLOBALG.A.P. with ISPM 15 packaging. Dried figs need HACCP, controlled moisture, pest freedom, and aflatoxin testing (a key EU checkpoint for dried fruit). Figs trade under HS 0804.20.

Fresh figs: phytosanitary and fruit fly

Fresh figs travel with an official phytosanitary certificate from Egypt’s plant-quarantine authority (CAPQ). Because figs are a fruit-fly host, fly control and inspection are central, and some destinations apply specific conditions. Under EU plant-health law (Regulation (EU) 2019/2072), host consignments must meet defined special requirements — typically pest-free-area origin, an approved systems approach with official inspection, or a recognised cold or other treatment for fruit fly; confirm the exact conditions and treatment required by each destination and season.

Pesticide residues (fresh)

Fresh figs must meet destination MRLs (EU: Regulation (EC) No 396/2005). Exporters follow approved spray programs, observe pre-harvest intervals and test where required.

Dried figs: aflatoxin and moisture

Dried figs are a processed food with two headline concerns: aflatoxin — the EU applies strict limits and border checks on dried figs — and moisture, which must be controlled to prevent mould and ensure stability. Producers run HACCP, sort to remove defective fruit, control storage, and carry out accredited aflatoxin testing. Pest freedom is also required.

Certification, traceability and packaging

GLOBALG.A.P. at farm level supports retail entry for fresh; processing HACCP (and where required BRCGS / ISO 22000) for dried; with clear lot-coded traceability. Wood pallets and dunnage must be ISPM 15 compliant.

Document checklist

DocumentFreshDried
Phytosanitary certificateRequired (fruit fly)Often required
Residue test report (MRLs)As requiredAs required
Aflatoxin test reportExpected (EU checkpoint)
GLOBALG.A.P. / HACCP / BRCGSGLOBALG.A.P. (farm)HACCP/BRCGS (plant)
CoO / EUR.1, invoice, packing list, B/LRequiredRequired

Frequently asked questions

What do fresh figs need to be exported?

A phytosanitary certificate (fruit-fly control), MRL compliance, GLOBALG.A.P. and standard documents.

What is the main concern for dried figs?

Aflatoxin (with strict EU limits and checks) and moisture control.

Why are figs a phytosanitary focus?

Figs are a fruit-fly host, so fly control and inspection are central for fresh fruit.

Do dried figs need testing?

Yes – accredited aflatoxin testing is expected, especially for the EU.

Under what HS code are figs traded?

Both fresh and dried figs under HS 0804.20.

How to cite this page

PEI Trade. “Egyptian Figs Export Requirements.” peitrade.com, 2026. https://peitrade.com/egyptian-figs-export-requirements/

Sources

  • European Commission — MRLs (Regulation (EC) No 396/2005), aflatoxin limits, and plant-health requirements (Regulation (EU) 2019/2072).
  • GLOBALG.A.P.; HACCP / BRCGS / ISO 22000; ISPM 15 (IPPC) — certification and packaging standards.

This page is part of our Egyptian Figs Export Guide hub.

Export Egyptian figs the compliant way with PEI Trade. Phytosanitary documentation and fruit-fly control with GLOBALG.A.P. for fresh, and HACCP with moisture and aflatoxin control and accredited testing for dried. Contact: sales@peitrade.com · WhatsApp +20 109 911 1918 · www.peitrade.com