New National Phytosanitary Origin Certification System (Sinfito): MAPA Publishes SDA/MAPA Ordinance No. 1,578/2026 with Relevant Phytosanitary Certification Rules and Other Provisions Applicable to the Sector

Sinfito marks the beginning of a new phase in Brazilian phytosanitary certification, one that is more integrated, rigorous, and aligned with the demands of international trade.

SDA/MAPA Ordinance No. 1,578, published on April 7, 2026, established the National Phytosanitary Origin Certification System (Sinfito), modernizing and consolidating the rules applicable to phytosanitary certification, the movement of regulated articles, and pest risk management options throughout Brazil. The main objective of Sinfito is to certify the phytosanitary condition of regulated articles at their origin and ensure greater safety and traceability in the production and movement of plant products.

The new system brings together and updates previously dispersed regulations, providing greater clarity and efficiency to certification processes. The Ordinance establishes that phytosanitary origin certification must attest to the compliance of the regulated article with the applicable phytosanitary requirements, including those related to quarantine pests and import phytosanitary requirements, when applicable.

One of the pillars of the regulation is the definition of the responsibilities of the technical professional in charge, who plays a central role in the certification process. This professional is responsible for ensuring compliance with phytosanitary requirements both at the production unit and at the consolidation unit, as well as fulfilling specific obligations established by the Ordinance, such as issuing the Phytosanitary Certificate of Origin (CFO) and the Consolidated Phytosanitary Certificate of Origin (CFOC).

The authorization of the technical professional in charge is subject to completion of a specific course offered by a state plant health protection authority.

The Ordinance also regulates the registration of properties and the enrollment of production units and consolidation units, which are essential steps for producers and consolidators to operate within Sinfito. These registrations will become part of the national system, allowing for greater standardization and traceability of information.

Within the phytosanitary origin certification process, the regulation requires both production units and consolidation units to keep their monitoring records up to date. This document records essential information for auditing, inspection, and traceability purposes. The continuous maintenance of these records reinforces the transparency and reliability of the process.

Another relevant aspect of the Ordinance is the regulation of pest risk management options, which are formally recognized as instruments to enable export certification. These options allow producers to adopt specific strategies to meet the phytosanitary requirements of importing markets, thereby increasing the competitiveness of the Brazilian agricultural sector.

The regulation also governs the movement of regulated articles throughout Brazil, simplifying requirements and reinforcing the importance of origin as a central element of certification. The text modernizes the process by encouraging the use of computerized systems and improving traceability, reducing bureaucracy and increasing logistical efficiency.

In addition, the Ordinance establishes clear rules for inspection and auditing, providing for independent and objective assessments to verify the compliance of certified units. The role of state inspection authorities, vested with administrative police powers, is reinforced as an essential element for the credibility of the system.

Sinfito represents a significant advancement for the agricultural sector. For producers, exporters, and technical professionals in charge, the new regulation requires increased attention to compliance with formal and operational obligations, particularly regarding recordkeeping, professional authorization, and compliance with applicable phytosanitary requirements.

Given the complexity and regulatory impact of SDA/MAPA Ordinance No. 1,578/2026, companies in the sector are advised to seek legal guidance to adapt their internal processes, review responsibilities, and ensure full compliance with the new system.

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used independently as a basis for decision-making. Specific legal advice may be provided by one of our attorneys. All copyrights are reserved by KESTENER VIEIRA TORRONTEGUY SPEGIORIN ADVOGADOS.