New Zealand has strict controls on what's imported into the country, to
protect our environment, flora, fauna, and human health. MPI must be
satisfied that imported goods, animals, plant products, or food don't
harbour unwanted organisms before biosecurity clearance is given.
Pests and diseases can impact human health and also damage
agriculture or horticultural production, forestry, and tourism. They can
also affect New Zealand's trade in international markets. MPI has
extensive controls in place to protect New Zealand from biosecurity
risks across a wide range of products and commodities, including:
- plants and plant products, including timber
- animal products and animals, including pets
- biological products and organisms
- food
- vessels and aircraft containers and cargo.
MPI also places restrictions on where aircraft and seacraft can
arrive in New Zealand to make sure proper inspections can take place of
the craft, passengers, and cargo.
The importing processBefore you start importing, you need to make sure you're allowed to import the particular product, animal, or item, If the product is allowed into the country, you'll also have to satisfy
MPI that it meets our import regulations and rules and does not pose a
biosecurity risk. If it's a food product, MPI will also want to make
sure it meets food safety and labelling requirements.
Follow import health standardsAny items or products that
could potentially contain unwanted pests or organisms are subject to an
import health standard. These standards are mainly done on a
country-commodity basis. The standards contain detailed information
about the requirements you have to meet to successfully import your
consignment and prove to MPI there is no biosecurity risk.
Food importers have to meet additional requirementsAll food
imported into New Zealand may only be imported if it is safe and
suitable and meets New Zealand standards for consumption.
Food importers are required to register with MPI and follow the food importing standards in place.
JWC take the pain this away and can do all the relevant checks for you.
