New Pre-clearance Procedure for Importers of Seed

OTTAWA, November 25, 2011: Effective immediately, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is implementing a new pre-clearance procedure for imported seed. The CFIA will now be able to confirm that seed meets Canadian import requirements before it arrives at the border.

Previously, only industry personnel accredited under the CFIA's Authorized Importer program could get seed pre-cleared prior to import. Seed from other importers had to be held separate and intact in the original packages after it was imported while the CFIA completed the import conformity assessment (ICA) process.

The ICA process includes a review of all mandatory documents (specifically, the import declaration and the seed analysis certificate). If it is determined that the seed meets Canadian import requirements, then a Notice of Import Conformity is issued. Then the seed can be planted, repackaged, or sold in Canada.

With this new procedure, all imported seed that requires an ICA can be pre-cleared. The CFIA can complete the ICA process and issue the Notice of Import Conformity in advance. When the shipment arrives at the border, the associated documentation will be verified and the seed can move directly to destination without further delay.

The Government of Canada is committed to protecting Canada's plant resource base from pests and diseases. The CFIA will continue to monitor imported seed lots through regular sampling and testing, both at the destination and in the market place. The CFIA's sampling and testing program is designed to prevent the entry of prohibited seeds from noxious weeds and invasive plants, while maintaining a supply of quality seed for Canadian consumers and export markets.

This new procedure will be managed by the CFIA's Saskatoon Laboratory. Any importer requesting pre-clearance of imported seed must fax the information required under subsections 40(1), 40(2), and 40(3) of the Seeds Regulations to the ICA office at the Saskatoon Laboratory (1-306-975-6989). The importer should clearly state that information submitted is for a pre-clearance of seed and should include the customs transaction number from the broker, if available. A Notice of Import Conformity will be issued to the importer by the ICA office when the ICA is complete. The importer should retain the original Notice of Import Conformity and provide a copy to accompany the importation.

Companies that frequently import seed are encouraged to consider becoming Authorized Importers.

For more information:

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Media relations: 613-773-6600

Additional information:

• News release: New Seed Import Pre-clearance to Reflect Speed of Commerce
• Questions and Answers: New Pre-clearance Procedure for Seed Importers