New Canadian Requirements for Wood Packaging Material from China

12 March 2009

Dear Valued Customer:

As of 1st September 2009, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) will no longer accept phytosanitary certificates from China for wood packaging material entering Canada. This is due to China's high rates of non-compliance. A valid International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) mark will be the only accepted treatment certification method. More details of Customs Notice CN09-002 can be found at http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn-ad/cn09-002-eng.htm.

Importers will be granted a three-month grace period from 1st June 2009. During which, wood packaging material accompanied by a Chinese phytosanitary certificate is subject to verification by CFIA and China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine.

CFIA's new policy for Chinese wood packaging will be fully enforced from 1st September 2009. The Canada Border Services Agency will refuse the entry of any wood packaging material certified with a Chinese phytosanitary certificate in lieu of a valid IPPC mark.

For examples of valid IPPC marks, please visit IPPC's Web site at www.ippc.int

The CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) can also be contacted at:
Food, Plant and Animal Programs Unit
Partnerships Division
Admissibility Branch
Canada Border Services Agency
Telephone: 613-957-6868
Fax: 613-946-1520

Please don’t hesitate to contact your local customer service or APL representative, if you require further assistance.

Yours sincerely.