28 February 2020
Who does this notice affect?
Importers, approved arrangements, freight forwarders and brokers that deal with imported fresh produce from New Zealand and the United States.
What has changed?
This is a reminder that from 1 May 2020, the department will no longer be providing offshore pre-shipment inspections (OPI) for horticultural fresh produce exports from New Zealand and the United States.
We will continue to process consignments cleared under OPI on or before 30 April 2020. Consignments cleared under OPI must arrive in Australia by 30 June 2020.
From 1 July 2020, all consignments will need to be presented to the department for on-arrival verification.
To meet our requirements, you are encouraged to become familiar with the import conditions for the fresh produce commodity you import, including:
- whether an import permit is required
- mandatory phytosanitary measures, such as fumigation and irradiation
- phytosanitary declarations
- packaging and labelling requirements.
You are also encouraged to:
- work with offshore suppliers that can meet the import conditions
- lodge the correct documentation
- book an inspection ahead of the scheduled arrival of your goods
- have access to, or apply for the necessary approved arrangements for holding, inspection and treatment of the goods.
Failure to meet the conditions may result in the fresh produce not being permitted entry into Australia.
Further information
For more information about Australia’s import conditions for fresh produce visit Importing fresh produce for commercial purposes
For enquiries about importing fresh produce to Australia email Imports. Please allow up to 10 working days for a response. You can also call us on:
- 1800 900 090 (from within Australia)
- +61 3 8318 6700 (from outside Australia)