18 April 2016
Purpose
To advise citrus exporters they are not required to hold a citrus export licence in 2016. Phytosanitary requirements for citrus exports are unchanged.
Background
Prior to 1 October 2015 citrus exporters were required to hold a licence from Hort Innovation (prior to 2015, Horticulture Australia Limited) and to adhere to the conditions on that licence.
On 1 October 2015 the legislation that established the citrus licensing scheme ceased.
On 31 January 2016 the citrus export licences granted by Hort Innovation expired.
Citrus was the only remaining horticulture product regulated under the licensing scheme. The legislation that required exporters to hold a licence to export apples, pears or dried grapes was revoked in January 2013.
Our earlier IAN (2016/06) advised that we would inform you of future arrangements for citrus export licensing once they are confirmed.
Summary of changes and key points
- Citrus exporters will not be required to purchase and hold citrus export licences in 2016.
- The Department of Immigration and Border Protection has removed the requirement for a Hort Innovation licence number in the Integrated Cargo System (ICS) for citrus exports.
- At this time, there are no plans to reintroduce a citrus export licensing scheme in the future. We will inform you if this situation changes.
Contact Information
If you have any questions regarding this IAN please email Horticulture Policy or phone (02) 6272 4826.
Sally Standen
Assistant Secretary
Crops, Meat and Horticulture Branch