LEADER’S BLOG: Cook Islands: A small nation takes a big leap towards digitalization to transform trade

By Temarama Anguna-Kamana

Head of Ministry of Agriculture, Cook Islands

This article is part of a series of thought pieces from notable leaders transforming international trade through the IPPC ePhyto Solution.

For small island economies like the Cook Islands’, agriculture and trade are our lifelines. We are a tiny nation of 14 000 people relying heavily on imports worth USD 213 million per year, which dominates our food supply chain since local production is small-scale and mostly subsistence. Meanwhile, our export volumes are much smaller at USD 30 million annually, some of which include vanilla, taro and noni juice.

When consignments are delayed at the border due to possible pest presence, this can impact our local economy. That’s why embracing the IPPC ePhyto Solution was more than a technical upgrade — we took a bold step towards trade efficiency by connecting globally and expanding market access.

In 2022, we adopted the IPPC ePhyto Solution using the Generic ePhyto National System (GeNS), since building a national IT system was beyond our reach. The GeNS offered a cost-effective, ready-to-use solution that aligned perfectly with our needs, available resources and vision. Going digital was more than just adopting technology, but more importantly, investing in mutual trust and collaborating with our stakeholders and partners were key to our success.

We embarked on onboarding training with the IPPC which prepared our biosecurity officers and IT team for the transition from paper to digital phytosanitary certification. Our stakeholders (exporters, importers, shipping agents/brokers) were onboard from the beginning and their feedback helped shape the design of our systems. Through the technical and financial support of the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and the Pacer Plus Implementation Unit, we invested NZD 60 000 for IT equipment, training and workshops, with zero user fees and operational costs.

ePhyto is a fairly simple idea but with transformative impact: better data collection, faster clearance, stronger safeguards against fraud and less delays. Our resources are limited and trade routes are vital, so this innovation has leveled the playing field for us.

Impact: trade efficiency and market access

Today, the results are tangible. We have exchanged more than 2 400 ePhytos in 2025, with a monthly average of 60-70 certificates wherein imports represent 80 percent of all ePhytos processed. Initially focused on New Zealand and Australia, the system has opened doors to new partners like France and the United States.

Our operational efficiency improved through reduced courier, postage, and administrative costs for issuing and receiving certificates, as well as shorter processing times and fewer re-issuances. We experience less consignment delays and demurrage risks because verification and clearance are faster. Not to mention the environmental benefits through reduced paper use and improved record management. Being able to issue secure, verifiable certificates accords us with increased confidence from trading partners.

In other words, trade is smoother, safer – and smarter.

The ePhyto platform helped us establish a foundation for wider border digitalization and potential integration with Customs and trade facilitation systems. Electronic certification positions the Cook Islands to comply with trading partners’ requirements and pursue new or reinstated markets. At the same time, regional leadership has allowed us to contribute to capacity-building in the Pacific region, supporting fellow NPPOs in digital implementation. Looking ahead, we plan to include private passenger baggage certificates (Non-Commercial certificates) and the use of the ebilling function to improve convenience and revenue collection.

Sharing the vision with other NPPOs

Undoubtedly, digitalization of phytosanitary certification has streamlined core NPPO functions.

For NPPOs, ePhyto means faster exchanges. Better data supports risk analysis, inspection planning, and compliance monitoring. Staff time saved is now invested in field inspections and stakeholder engagement, while fostering collaboration with customs and biosecurity teams. Based on the Cook Islands’ experience, here are some recommendations that other countries may benefit from:

• One, conduct a comprehensive workflow mapping exercise prior to rollout and review legislation to enable the use of ePhyto. Ideally, begin with pilot trading partners to test end-to-end transactions before full deployment. If possible, ensure adequate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure and stable connectivity, including contingency arrangements. Role-specific training for staff, exporters and importers is essential, particularly allocating budget for a dedicated person for ongoing maintenance, training and technical support.
• Two, securing governmental and legal recognition of electronic certificates would also be helpful; and
• Finally, joining regional ePhyto networks to share experiences and access collective technical assistance will keep the NPPO up to date on the latest developments.

Looking ahead

Our vision is clear: a resilient, digitally connected phytosanitary system that supports sustainable exports and regional trade. We aim to expand ePhyto to all consignments, strengthen interoperability, and harness analytics for smarter decisions. Regional cooperation remains central—our officers now train colleagues across the Pacific, reinforcing shared progress.

Our future priorities include enhancing the GeNS platform and deepening stakeholder engagement. A cost-recovery model based on certificate issuance will sustain the service long-term.

By embracing ePhyto, the Cook Islands has shown that innovation knows no borders. This is more than a success story — it’s our call to action. For countries still contemplating ePhyto, let this be your inspiration: with collaboration, courage, and the right support, digital transformation is within reach. And as the Cook Islands continues to innovate, we stand ready to share our experience with other nations.