With membership open to OECD, UN and WTO countries, the aim is to stimulate the production and use of high-quality seeds. There are eight schemes, each defined according to a group of species of cultivated plants. Currently, these schemes cover 204 agricultural and vegetable species.
Seeds
The OECD Schemes for the Varietal Certification of Seed, better known as the OECD Seed Schemes, were established in 1958. The OECD Seed Schemes promote the use of certified agriculture seed that is of consistently high quality. These seeds are produced and officially controlled according to a set of harmonised procedures implemented in the 64 participating countries.
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Key messages
The OECD Seed Schemes include rules and regulations applicable to eight groups of species constituting the following eight Schemes:
- Grasses and Legumes
- Crucifers, and other Oil or Fibre Species
- Cereals
- Maize
- Sorghum and Pearl Millet
- Sugar and Fodder Beet
- Subterranean Clover and Similar Species
- Vegetables
These rules and regulations define the technical standards developed by seed certification specialists in participating countries in close co-operation with other international seed-related organisations, such as the FAO, ISF, ISTA and UPOV. Many regional seed organisations also participate in the development of technical standards.
Download the rules & regulations:
The OECD is known for its evidence-based advice and standards, as well as for being a forum where national experts from different areas can jointly develop common standards and procedures. The collaboration of national authorities and highly qualified seed experts from the private sector in the standard setting process ensures the wide acceptance of the OECD seed varietal certification system and its value to the global seed and agricultural sectors.
The World Seed Partnership (WSP) is an initiative established by the OECD Seed Schemes, the International Seed Federation (ISF), the International Seed Testing Assocation (ISTA), the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) and the World Farmer's Organisation (WFO) to promote access to new varieties and high-quality seed that support sustainable agricultural development. The WSP promotes access to new varieties and high quality seed to support sustainable agriculture and food systems.
Each country has nominated a National Designated Authority (NDA) who is responsible for the implementation of the seed schemes.
OECD Seed Schemes Documents
Rules and Guidelines:
- OECD Seed Schemes Rules and Regulations
- Guidelines for control plot tests and field inspection of seed crops
- OECD Guidelines for multiplication abroad
- Guidelines for the authorisation of some certification activities under the OECD Seed Schemes
Related documents:
- Varietal Purity Characters to be used for Control Plots and Field Inspection
- Proposed procedure for considering certification controls for new seed production methods
Brochures and others:
OECD List of Varieties eligible for seed certification
The most up-to-date list of varieties eligible for seed certification under the OECD Seed Schemes can be found in the electronic database.
The OECD List of Varities (last updated January 2025) is also available to download.
List of Varieties by Seed Scheme
- Grasses and Legumes
- Crucifers and other Oil or Fibre Species
- Cereals
- Sugar Beet and Fodder Beet
- Subterranean Clover and Similar Species
- Maize
- Sorghum and Pearl Millet
Changes
Further information
Participating countries
64 countries participate in the OECD Seed Schemes
Each country has nominated a National Designated Authority (NDA) who is responsible for the implementation of the seed schemes.
Latest news
G7 agriculture ministers have launched a new plan to enhance Africa’s participation in the OECD seed certification scheme, as part of wider efforts to strengthen agricultural activity and its contribution to economic development.
The new G7-OECD Joint Initiative: Strengthening seed certification in Africa – launched during a meeting of G7 agriculture ministers in Syracuse on 27-28 September – will improve seed quality, boost yields and farmer incomes, and strengthen agricultural productivity across the continent.
Further information about the project here
Context
OECD Seed Schemes Explained | Seed Certification & Global Seed Trade
The OECD Seed Schemes support international seed certification and trusted global seed trade, helping strengthen agriculture and food security worldwide.
By providing a harmonised framework of common standards, the Schemes help countries align their seed certification systems and build confidence in the quality of certified seed traded across borders. Today, more than 60 countries participate, facilitating seed trade and strengthening national seed systems.
In this video, experts from governments, regulatory authorities, international organisations and the seed sector explain why international cooperation on seed certification is essential. They highlight how shared standards build trust between countries, support biosecurity, reduce regulatory barriers and create more reliable conditions for farmers and seed markets.
Through technical guidance and capacity-building activities, the OECD Seed Schemes help countries strengthen their seed systems and stay connected to global best practices, supporting transparency, resilience and long-term trust in global seed systems.
Contact the OECD Secretariat
For more information about the OECD Seed Schemes, please contact Mr. Csaba Gaspar, Head of Section, and/or Ms. Aurélia Nicault, Programme Officer, OECD Seed Schemes. Feel free to contact them regarding the Seed Schemes or contact the OECD Codes and Schemes Secretariat.
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17 December 20208 Pages