New EU Phytosanitary Requirements for Oak and Chestnut Wood Exports

Trade Update • Jan. 30, 2025

Key Points

• The EU will apply new phytosanitary rules to oak and chestnut wood starting March–April 2026.
• The measures target the two-lined chestnut borer (Agrilus bilineatus).
• Solid wood exports will require bark and cambium removal at approved facilities.
• No areas in Canada or the United States are recognized as pest-free from this organism.
• CFIA continues engagement with the EU on alternative treatment options.

On December 8, 2025, the European Union notified trading partners that it will introduce new phytosanitary requirements for oak and chestnut wood originating in countries where the two-lined chestnut borer (Agrilus bilineatus) is present, including Canada and the U.S. The measures will take effect following publication of the amended EU plant health regulation, with implementation expected between March and April 2026.

New Phytosanitary Requirements

Once the new requirements are implemented, oak and chestnut wood exports to the EU will be allowed only if they comply with the following:

Solid wood over 6 mm in thickness

Includes logs, lumber, and similar products.

• All bark must be removed
• An additional 2.5 cm of cambium must be removed
• Removal must be performed at an approved facility

Wood chips

• Must originate from an area officially recognized by the EU as free from Agrilus bilineatus

IMPORTANT: Canada and the United States currently DO NOT have any area recognized by the EU as pest‑free for this organism, so oak and chestnut wood chips from these regions cannot be certified for export under the new rules.

Additional Notes

• The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is engaging with the EU to discuss less restrictive measures, including debarking, heat treatment, and kiln drying to achieve moisture content below 20%.
• The EU has corrected HS codes for Acer saccharum wood used for veneer production and veneer sheets; the requirements for these products have not changed.
• CFIA will issue a follow-up once the EU publishes the final regulatory text.
• Exporters should consult their local plant protection office for guidance on compliance and certification.

How GHY Can Help?

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