Several major importing countries — particularly in the EU and parts of Asia — maintain positive lists of approved GE events and may reject or require additional documentation for shipments containing unapproved events. US exporters should confirm that the GE traits present in their shipment are approved in the destination market before contracting. Industry groups such as the US Soybean Export Council publish destination-country approval status updates that exporters can use as a starting reference.

Most importing countries require a phytosanitary certificate issued by USDA APHIS attesting that the soybeans are free from regulated pests and meet the importing country's specific requirements. Some destinations also require fumigation certificates or certificates of origin. Requirements vary by country and can change with new pest detections, so exporters should verify current requirements with APHIS or the destination country's agricultural authority before each shipment.