Market Access Advice
Export of Yellowtail Kingfish to Japan
Date of Issue - 10 February 2010
Date of Effect: Immediate
Country - Japan
The Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service has recently been alerted to the following requirements pertaining to the export of Yellowtail Kingfish to Japan:
Prior to importing Yellowtail Kingfish (Seriola lalandi) into Japan for the first time, it is the importers responsibility to contact the relevant Quarantine Station to determine whether or not the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) requires the product to be tested for ciguatera toxin. Should MHLW decide testing is required, it is the importers responsibility to have an initial consignment tested on arrival in Japan. This consignment will not be released until results are obtained and the testing process generally takes 10 days.
Note: Testing requirements may also apply to other species. It is important that the exporter discusses import arrangements with their importer. This will ensure that the importer meets all Japanese import regulations and procedures prior to the exporter sending a consignment of product to that importer for the first time.
Lynda Feazey
Export Standards Branch
The information provided above is current at the time of writing and is intended for use as guidance only and should not be taken as definitive or exhaustive. The Commonwealth endeavours to keep information current and accurate, however, it may be subject to change without notice. Exporters are encouraged to verify these details with their importers prior to undertaking production/exports. The Commonwealth will not accept liability for any loss resulting from reliance on information contained in this notice.