27 October 2023
Purpose
- This Industry Advice Notice (IAN) is to advise industry stakeholders and manufacturers on the process to meet China’s import requirements for establishments exporting unprocessed plant spices/seasoning to China to be listed with the Animal and Plant Quarantine division (APQ) in addition to registration within the General Administration of Customs People’s Republic of China (GACC).
Summary of key points
- China manages imports of plant seasonings and spices differently depending on whether they are processed or not.
- Imports of processed plant spices/seasonings (crushed or ground) will continue to be managed using the CIFER system.
- Imports of unprocessed plant spices/seasonings are now managed through the Animal and Plant Quarantine Division (APQ); please see the list below.
- APQ has advised the department that it requires a list of all Australian establishments exporting non-prescribed unprocessed plant spices/seasonings to China.
- The department plays a role in enabling Australian exporters’ registration through APQ.
- Exporters currently registered through the CIFER system for imported food products described under Article 7 and Article 9 of Decree 248 do not need to apply.
- Applications for registration of unprocessed plant spices/seasonings (does not include crushed or ground) can be made via the Department by contacting the Non-prescribed Goods Export Program NPGExports@aff.gov.au.
Applying for registration with APQ
The requirement for registration with APQ applies to establishments whose unprocessed plant spices/seasonings (does not include crushed or ground) that are intended for export to China.
Note this does not relate to fresh plant commodities. Registration with APQ does not apply to food processing and storage facilities handling fresh product intended for export to China. This is managed via the departments Plant Export Operations further information here - Plant and plant products
An authorised person in management of the establishment must complete the relevant forms. Once completed, return them to the department via email to the Non-prescribed Goods Exports Program at NPGExports@aff.gov.au
- To become listed with the department please complete this form: Application for export listing of establishments manufacturing/exporting non-prescribed goods
- For establishments already listed with the department wanting to add spices/seasonings for export to China please complete this form: Continuation of export listing or amendment of export listing for establishments manufacturing/exporting non-prescribed goods
- The department will assess completed forms and will forward to the APQ for final approval and sign-off.
- New establishments must be approved for listing by both the department and APQ before export.
- The department will advise establishments when the processes and listing have been approved.
List of currently approved unprocessed (does not include crushed or ground) plant spices/seasonings
- Deer Antler
- Cardamon
- Walnut kernels (dried hulled walnuts)
- Pepper
- Ginger
- Vanilla
- Chinese Yam
- Armeniacae Semen Amarum (bitter almond)
- Linseed / Flaxseed
- Ginko Leaf
- Perillae Folium (Perilla leaf—Perilla is a term used to describe a variety of different species within the mint family)
Contact Information
If you have any questions about this advice or process to register, please email the Non-prescribed Goods Export Program at NPGExports@aff.gov.au.
Timothy Robertson
A/g Assistant Secretary
Residues and Food Branch
Exports and Veterinary Services Division
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry