Revised Canadian Import Requirements for Wood Packaging Material from China: IPPC Mark Soon Mandatory

(CSCB)

In September 2008, the Canada’s Forestry Delegation met with China’s General Administration for Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) to discuss the repeated occurrence of counterfeited Chinese Phytosanitary Certificates for wood packaging materials destined to Canada.

In agreement with AQSIQ officials, Canada will discontinue recognition of Chinese Phytosanitary Certificates and will only accept the IPPC mark in verifying China’s compliance with Canada’s phytosanitary import requirements for wood packaging materials. Please note that these new requirements will be in place for shipments originating from the People’s Republic of China and will not affect shipments from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

For more information regarding the phase-in approach, please consult the Canada Border Services Agency’s Customs Notice. For more information on rules and regulations governing the import of wood packaging, please visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website or contact the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342.