28 July 2016
Who does this notice affect?
This notice is intended for all brokers and importers of the following tariffs:
| Tariff | Commodity | Scientific name |
|---|---|---|
0910.20.00 | Saffron | Crocus sativa |
0904.21.00 | Dried capsicum and pimenta – neither crushed nor ground (i.e. dried capsicum, chilli and allspice) | Capsicum sp. |
0904.11.00 | Pepper (neither crushed nor ground) | Piper sp. |
What has changed?
Imports of saffron, dried capsicum and pimenta (neither crushed nor ground) and whole peppercorns (of the genus Piper) will be eligible for reduced inspection intervention as of Friday 29 July 2016 as part of the Compliance-Based Inspection Scheme. From this date, importers that demonstrate good compliance will be eligible for reduced inspection frequency.
From 29 July 2016, importers will need to import 3 consecutive clean consignments of saffron, or 5 consecutive clean consignments of dried capsicum & pimenta (neither crushed nor ground) or pepper (neither crushed nor ground) before they are eligible for a reduced rate of inspections.
The import conditions for these commodities have not changed.
What do I need to do?
Importers and brokers should continue to lodge documentation to the department as per their current practice. The assessment for eligibility of reduced inspections happens automatically in the Agriculture Import Management System (AIMS) and does not require any action.
How does the Compliance-Based Inspection Scheme work?
Importers must initially pass a minimum number of consecutive consignments in order to demonstrate sufficient compliance. This number and the frequency of subsequent inspections is based on the biosecurity risk posed by these commodities and may change over time.
The system will look at outcomes of previous inspections to determine whether goods may be released or whether an inspection is required. Once an importer has demonstrated a high level of compliance they will be eligible for a reduced inspection frequency. Inspections will not cease completely and consignments may still be subject to other random inspections and cargo compliance verification inspections.
All consignments are still subject to a documentation assessment before being released by the department regardless of whether they undergo a physical inspection.
Further information
More information can be found on the Compliance-Based Inspection Scheme web page.
For further information please email Plant Import Operations at imports or phone 1800 900 090.