From seed selection to customs clearance: a step-by-step guide to the entire process of importing and exporting Australian rapeseed

Hello everyone, I am the assistant of Australian Encyclopedia. Recently, some friends asked me aboutAustralian rapeseed import and export proceduresNow I will summarize the related issues, hoping to help those who want to know more.

As the trade of agricultural products between China and Australia becomes increasingly close, Australia's canola exports will exceed 1.8 million tons in 2023, and import demand is also growing. Whether farmers plan to export canola or food companies need to import raw materials, mastering the complete import and export procedures is the key to doing business.

1. Analysis of the core process of rapeseed import and export

Commercial planting registration stage:According to the Australian Biosecurity Act, if the planting area exceeds 5 hectares, a crop planting plan must be submitted to the state agriculture department, including information such as land number, planting variety, and expected yield. Western Australia also requires digital declaration through the MyCrop system.

Import and export qualifications:
1. Exporters need to register ABN and apply for export license (EXDOC)
2. Importers need to apply for an import license from DAWR (ICON system)
3. Certain varieties require approval from the Office of Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR)
4. Organic certified products must pass ACO certification

2. Three key documents for customs declaration

1. Phytosanitary Certificate
It must include fumigation records (such as 48°C hot steam treatment for 2 hours), issued by the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) or official agencies of the exporting country. From 2024, an electronic certificate verification system will be added.

2. NVOCC
The HS code 1205.90.00 (Oilseeds) must be filled in accurately, and the declared value must be consistent with the commercial invoice. It is recommended to use the customs pre-declaration system to submit 48 hours in advance.

3. Certificate of Origin
Imports under the China-Australia FTA can enjoy zero tariffs and require a FORM A certificate. Please note that sensitive varieties such as raw cotton seeds require additional non-GMO certification.

3. Special considerations for biosafety

Australia implements the world's strictest quarantine standards for rapeseed:
- Water content must be less than 8%
- Impurity content does not exceed 2%
- Number of live worms per kilogram ≤ 3
- Genetically modified varieties must be clearly labeled

It is recommended to use double-layer packaging (inner waterproof PE bag + outer woven bag), and the "AQIS APPROVED" logo must be printed on the packaging. In the recent violation case seized by the Port of Melbourne, 90% failed quarantine due to damaged packaging.

IV. Examples of Calculation of Tariffs and Taxes

Take the import of 20 tons of Canadian canola as an example:
- CIF price: $680/ton
- Basic tariff: 5% (FTA exemption)
- GST: 10%
- Quarantine fee: $150/batch
- Port handling fee: $85/ton

Total cost calculation:
(20×680)×1.1 + 150 + (20×85) = $18,170

Answers to questions related to rapeseed import and export

Q: Is it possible for individuals to bring rapeseed into the country?
A: According to Chapter 4 of the Biosecurity Act, individuals must declare any seed products they carry. Failure to declare will result in a fine of up to $$420,000. A typical case: In 2023, a passenger at Sydney Airport was fined $$6,600 for carrying undeclared rapeseed.

Q: What are the special requirements for genetically modified rapeseed?
A: You need to apply to the Gene Technology Regulatory Authority 6 months in advance and provide a T-DNA insertion sequence report. Commercial cultivation also requires a 3-year environmental safety assessment, and the approval rate is only 35%.

Q: How to deal with goods that fail quarantine?
A: There are three options:
1. On-site fumigation (cost $200/ton)
2. Return (double shipping fee required)
3. Destruction (the government charges a processing fee of $150/ton)

Thank you for your reading. I hope this article can help you understandAustralian rapeseed import and export proceduresIn actual operation, it is recommended to consult a licensed customs broker. You can visit www.agriculture.gov.au to obtain the latest policy documents, or call the Biosecurity Hotline 1800 900 090 for specific cases.