Canada Revises Hardwood Export Directive D-14-02 to Include Chestnut and Oak for EU
Trade Update • February 22, 2026
Key Points
- The CFIA issued the eighth revision of Directive D-14-02 on February 19, 2026.
- The update adds two-lined chestnut borer (Agrilus bilineatus) as a regulated pest under the program.
- Chestnut (Castanea spp.) and oak (Quercus spp.) now fall under new EU export requirements.
- Exporters shipping oak and chestnut lumber to the European Union must register under the Hardwood Export Program.
- The new requirements align with upcoming revisions to EU plant health rules under European Union Regulation 2019/2072.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) revised Directive D-14-02: Hardwood Export Program, effective February 19, 2026. The update expands the directive to address new phytosanitary requirements adopted by the European Union. Canada now regulates chestnut and oak wood exports to the EU in response to measures targeting the two-lined chestnut borer (Agrilus bilineatus). Exporters handling these species must comply with registration, treatment, and certification rules under the Hardwood Export Program.
What Changed in Directive D-14-02
Addition of Two-Lined Chestnut Borer
The directive now lists Agrilus bilineatus as a regulated pest. The EU introduced import requirements to prevent its entry and spread. Canada updated its program to reflect those measures.
Previously, D-14-02 focused on pests such as:
- Emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis)
- Bronze birch borer (Agrilus anxius)
The revision formally expands coverage to include the two-lined chestnut borer.
Expansion to Chestnut and Oak
Chestnut (Castanea spp.) and oak (Quercus spp.) now fall under D-14-02 requirements for exports to the EU. These species must meet specific phytosanitary processing standards before shipment.
The new requirements do not apply to exports destined for:
- The United Kingdom
- Türkiye
- Norway
The directive continues to apply to those countries for ash and birch, but chestnut and oak requirements target EU-bound shipments.
Registration Requirements for Exporters
Facilities exporting regulated wood articles to the EU must register under the Hardwood Export Program through the CFIA’s My CFIA platform.
Registered facilities must:
- Develop and maintain a preventive control plan
- Describe phytosanitary processing procedures in detail
- Implement traceability, labeling, and segregation protocols
- Undergo CFIA oversight and audits
Facilities that already participate in related forestry programs may amend their preventive control plans to incorporate D-14-02 requirements.
Phytosanitary Requirements for Birch, Chestnut, and Oak
For chestnut and oak lumber exports to the EU:
- Bark must be removed
- At least 2.5 cm of outer sapwood must be removed
- Processing must occur in a CFIA-registered facility
- Shipments must include a CFIA-issued phytosanitary certificate
Note that Canada regulates all areas of the country under this directive. The EU does not recognize pest-free areas for ash, birch, chestnut, or oak originating from Canada or the United States. Exporters must therefore follow the systems-based approach outlined in the directive.
How GHY Can Help?
GHY specializes in helping businesses navigate and reduce the impacts of tariffs through strategic solutions tailored to their needs. Our experts can audit your supply chain to identify inefficiencies, uncover cost-saving opportunities, and ensure compliance with evolving trade regulations. We also employ tariff engineering techniques to optimize product classification and sourcing strategies, minimizing duty exposure and maximizing profitability.
By partnering with GHY, your business gains access to the tools and expertise needed to streamline operations and stay competitive in a challenging trade environment.
Contact Us Today! Booking a Meeting, email consult@ghy.com, or call +1 (800) 667-0771.
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