Do You Need Export Permit for Every Export of Plants and Plant Products?

 The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) has the authority to issue export permit for plants and plant products. However, not every export consignment in these categories requires a permit. You need to understand it with respect to two important criterions:

• First, do your goods fall in prescribed or non-prescribed goods category?
• Second, does the importing country (or the importer) demand a phytosanitary certificate or not?

Let’s elaborate more on this.

What Is a Phytosanitary Certificate?

A phytosanitary certificate, which the DAWE only has the authority to issue, certifies that the products intended for export have been inspected and/or tested to be pest-free. Generally, a majority of importing countries demand this certificate even before the dispatch of the products. Though, there are exceptions where a few countries don’t require it in case of some product types.

When an exporter initiates a request for permits, the application also includes the request for a phytosanitary certificate. The DAWE assigns an officer to inspect the goods in a registered establishment. On the basis of this inspection, the department issues or denies export permit as well as phytosanitary certificates.

What Are Prescribed and Non-prescribed Goods Categories?

The prescribed goods in the plants and plant products categories include:

1. Prescribed grains and seeds
2. Fresh fruits and vegetables
3. Plant products like tissue cultures, fodder, cotton, timber products and more

In conclusion, all other products not included above are the non-prescribed goods.

3 Situations You Must Understand

1. Firstly, an export permit is not required if the goods in question belong to the category of non-prescribed goods.
2. Secondly, an export permit is required if the goods in question are from the prescribed goods category as well as the importing country demands for a phytosanitary certificate.
3. Lastly, an export permit is required even if the importing country doesn’t demand a phytosanitary certificate, but the goods in question belong to the prescribed goods category.
   

If you still have a doubt, you may consider hiring an export documentation consultant to avoid any mistakes. In addition to providing guidance, these experts may also help you obtain export permits and other important documents quickly.