Certification requirements & Process

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 Real seeds are obtained from the pollination and vegetative fertilization of seed and plant propagating materials, including seedlings, tubers, rhizomes, root cuttings, mother bases, and grafting materials. 

 Breeder seeds are the first generation, produced according to established criteria of the farm and laboratory under the direct supervision and control of research experts or research centers for the purpose of producing seed. 

 Foundation seeds are propagated from breeder seeds according to all established criteria of the farm and laboratory. They meet all legal specifications of seeds and are used for producing registered and certified seeds. 

 Registered seeds are produced from breeder and foundation seeds according to all established criteria of the farm and laboratory. 

 Certified seeds are produced according to all established standards of the farm and laboratory from foundation or registered varieties. 

 Quality Declared Seeds (QDS) in Afghanistan, as in other countries, follow a system introduced by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This system is designed to provide an alternative to formal seed certification, particularly in regions with limited resources.  QDS is often used for crops where the formal seed sector has less interest. It supports local seed businesses, particularly smallholder farmers, by enabling them to produce and supply quality seeds within their communities.