Changes proposed to import health standard for wood packaging material

Oct 29

The current Import Health Standard (IHS) for Wood Packaging Material (WPM) is being modified.

Under the current standard, issued in June 2006, all Wood Packaging Material (thicker than 6mm) imported into New Zealand must be either ISPM15 compliant or be treated and certified as per the conditions of the Standard.

Significant changes are as follows:

1. From 1st November 2009 there will be a mandatory requirement for MAFBNZ inspection of all Wood Packaging Material profiled as being non-compliant (not meeting the requirements of the IHS). Any additional costs will be for account of the Importer.

2. MAFBNZ inspectors are now able to inspect and release non-complying Wood Packaging Material. Previously only treatment, reshipment or destruction options were available.

3. From 30 November 2009 MAFBNZ will enforce the requirement that the latest version of the sea container quarantine declaration be used for all FCL movements. This version specifically asks if any wood packaging present is ISPM15 compliant - http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/forms/containers-declaration

It is imperative that all Wood Packaging Material is ISPM15 compliant to avoid any additional costs or delays in delivery.

Further Information is available on the MAF Biosecurity New Zealand website: http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/biosec/consult/draft-ihs-wood-packaging-material

Thursday, 29 October 2009

Posted: 2 years 3.2 months ago
Tags: ISF, Wood, Packaging, Material