Jun 16, 2006

Process Established For Amending Import RegulationsSource: APHIS

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced it has established regulations governing the submission of requests regarding changes to import regulations for plants, plant parts or plant products.

In order for APHIS to properly consider such requests, the following information must be provided:

• Information about the party submitting the request.
• Information about the commodity proposed for importation into the United States.
• Shipping information.
• Description of pests and diseases associated with the commodity.
• Current or proposed strategies for risk mitigation or management.
• Any additional information that APHIS deems necessary to undertake a pest risk analysis in accordance with international standards.

The rule will help ensure that APHIS is provided the appropriate information to properly consider requests in a timely manner. Receiving the necessary information at the time an import request is made will facilitate the process for considering and responding to the request. Increased responsiveness to import requests will enhance the standing of the United States as a trading partner.

This final rule was published in the May 30, 2006, Federal Register and becomes effective June 29, 2006.