12092500
OIL SEEDS AND OLEAGINOUS FRUITS; MISCELLANEOUS GRAINS, SEEDS AND FRUIT; INDUSTRIAL OR MEDICINAL PLANTS; STRAW AND FODDER›Seeds, fruit and spores, of a kind used for sowing
Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam., Lolium perenne L.) seeds
Subcodes (2)
Classification of ryegrass seed
CN code 120925 covers ryegrass (Lolium spp.) seed for sowing. Ryegrass is one of the most important forage and turf grasses in temperate climates, including perennial ryegrass (L. perenne), Italian ryegrass (L. multiflorum), and their hybrids. Ryegrass seed is widely used for establishing permanent grassland, sports turf, and ornamental lawns. Major exporters include Denmark, the Netherlands, USA, New Zealand, and Argentina.
Phytosanitary and seed requirements
Imports are subject to phytosanitary requirements of Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 and quality standards of Directive 66/401/EEC. An ISTA certificate is required. Seeds must be free from quarantine organisms. Varieties registered in the EU Common Catalogue may benefit from free movement within the EU.
Trade practice
Importers should indicate CN code 120925 with complete seed documentation. Transport in bags under dry, covered conditions. The ryegrass seed market is one of the largest grass seed segments, with growing demand for perennial and stress-tolerant varieties.
Ryegrass as a key forage grass in the EU
Ryegrass seeds for sowing under CN 1209 25 cover Lolium species - perennial ryegrass and Italian ryegrass. This is the most important forage grass in Western Europe, valued for rapid growth and high digestibility. Imports are governed by Seed Directive 66/401/EEC. Germination capacity must be min 75%, purity min 96%. Main suppliers are Denmark, New Zealand and USA. The European market requires certification of varieties listed in the EU Common Catalogue. Seeds must be free from invasive species and quarantine organisms.
Frequently asked questions
What ryegrass species does code 120925 cover?
The code covers all Lolium species including perennial and Italian ryegrass. Both are key forage and turf grasses in European agriculture.
Do ryegrass seeds require an ISTA certificate?
Yes. An ISTA or equivalent certificate is standard for grass seed imports to the EU, confirming germination capacity, species purity, and weed seed freedom.
Which country is the largest ryegrass seed exporter?
Denmark is the largest European producer and exporter of ryegrass seed. Other important exporters include the Netherlands, USA, and New Zealand.
What is the minimum germination for ryegrass seed CN 1209 25?
Ryegrass seed CN 1209 25 must have min 75% germination capacity and min 96% purity under Seed Directive 66/401/EEC. Varieties must be listed in the EU Common Catalogue.
Useful tools & resources
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