GSPP Certification in Seed Production: What It Is and Why It Matters

GSPP (Good Seed and Plant Practices) certification is the most demanding international standard in hybrid tomato seed production. At Maraseed, we implement it every season across our homefarms in Curacaví and Monterrey, Chile. What is GSPP Certification? GSPP stands for Good Seed and Plant Practices — an international protocol focused on preventing the entry and spread of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis (Cmm), the bacteria responsible for bacterial canker of tomato. This is one of the most destructive and costly diseases in the global seed industry. Why Does GSPP Certification Matter for International Seed Companies? GSPP certification guarantees: - Verifiable quality and health in every seed lot - Full traceability from planting to final delivery - Compliance with import requirements in Europe and the U.S. - Reduced economic risk from rejections or crop losses - Greater competitiveness and reputation with global clients Biosecurity Protocol in GSPP Areas All personnel working in GSPP zones must strictly comply with the following agricultural biosecurity standards: - Handwashing and disinfection upon entry and exit - Exclusive work clothing with mandatory daily change - Dedicated footwear disinfected in footbaths - Mandatory apron, sleeves, and institutional cap at all times - No fruits, food, or personal items allowed in the area Entry Order for GSPP Zones 1. Handwashing 2. Pass through turnstile 3. Second handwashing 4. Footwear cleaning in footbath 5. Change of work clothing 6. Storage of personal belongings Tools and Machinery Management All tools, equipment, and vehicles must be disinfected before entering GSPP zones: - Minor tools: cleaning and disinfection before and after each use - Agricultural machinery: removal of organic matter and prior disinfection - Vehicles: inspection and disinfection at control point before entering the premises Controlling Clavibacter michiganensis (Cmm) To prevent bacterial canker of tomato in hybrid seed production: - Exclusive use of Cmm-free certified seeds - Strict control of irrigation water sources - Immediate removal of plants showing suspicious symptoms - Handling of plant residues in closed, sealed bags - Continuous monitoring by certified agronomists in the field Maraseed: GSPP-Certified Seed Production in Chile At Maraseed, we operate under GSPP-certified protocols at our main homefarm in Curacaví, where we produce hybrid tomato seeds, hybrid pepper seeds, and endive. Our 15 agronomists oversee every stage of the production cycle, ensuring the genetic purity and phytosanitary standards required by leading seed companies in Europe and North America. You may also be interested in: - Contract seed multiplication services in Chile: https://www.maraseed.com/en/articles/contract-seed-multiplication-chile - Why Chile is the best country for seed production: https://www.maraseed.com/en/articles/why-chile-seed-production - Hybrid tomato seed production process and quality: https://www.maraseed.com/en/articles/hybrid-tomato-seed-production-chile - How to choose a reliable seed multiplication partner: https://www.maraseed.com/en/articles/how-to-choose-seed-multiplication-partner Looking for a GSPP-certified seed production partner in Chile? Contact us to learn about our contract multiplication services: https://www.maraseed.com/en/contact