I. Import Procedures for Wood from Africa
Wood consumption is becoming increasingly important in many industries worldwide. In this context, Africa has emerged as one of the valuable sources of wood for the global market. However, importing wood from Africa requires adherence to a series of complex procedures and regulations. Many individuals and businesses often find themselves perplexed when dealing with customs declaration procedures for importing wood from Africa. This article will delve into introducing and elucidating the import procedures for wood from Africa, helping you gain a better understanding of this intricate process and how to seize opportunities from this promising wood market.
II. Policies and Regulations
1. Legal and Policy Framework for Wood Imports from Africa
When importing wood from Africa to Vietnam, the first important step is to determine whether the type of wood falls under the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) list or not.
CITES has been regulated according to Circular No. 04/2017/TT-BNNPTNT dated February 24, 2017, by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. This Circular took effect from April 10, 2017, replacing Circular 40/2013/BNNPTNT on the List of Wild Fauna and Flora Species in the Appendices of CITES.
According to Appendix 03 of Circular 24/2017/TT-BNNPTNT, there are provisions for HS codes for the List of items subject to plant quarantine inspection of Vietnam, effective from January 1, 2018, replacing Decision No. 2515/QD-BNN-BVTV dated June 29, 2015.
Based on the CITES list, you need to pay attention to the following regulations:
If the wood item is not listed in the Appendices of the CITES Convention, you can import it without requiring a permit from the CITES Vietnam Authority.
If the wood item is listed in Appendix I of the CITES Convention, you are not allowed to import this item.
If the wood item is listed in Appendix II or III of the CITES Convention, you must obtain a permit from the CITES Vietnam Authority when importing.
Please adhere to these regulations to ensure compliance with the law when carrying out wood import procedures from Africa to Vietnam.
2. Criteria Required on Packaging for Wood Imports from Africa
To ensure smooth customs clearance, you need to adhere to the following criteria when packaging and labeling on the packaging. In the case of wood, there are some differences in regulations compared to other products.
Goods must have complete labeling according to current regulations.
Labels on goods should clearly state details about the dimensions of each piece of wood.
If you have any further questions, please contact H-Cargo via hotline or email for quick and free consultation.
III. HS Code and Import Taxes
For individuals/businesses embarking on the process of importing wood from Africa into Vietnam, it's crucial to pay attention to the HS code and applicable taxes. Currently, imported wood from Africa is classified under HS code 44079990.
This type of wood, known as Doussie wood in split form (Latin name: Afzelia africana), is not listed in the CITES appendix. Additionally, mussibi/mussivi wood in split form (Guibourtia coleosperma) and teak wood also fall under this HS code.
Regarding import taxes, this wood product has a 0% import tax and an 8% value-added tax (VAT). Currently, businesses can use the HS code to look up and accurately determine the tax rates applicable to their imported goods. This ensures compliance with tax regulations and the import process in a correct manner.
IV. Import Documentation Set for Wood from Africa
To ensure a smooth and expedited customs clearance process, businesses need to prepare necessary documents for importation, including:
Commercial Invoice.
Sales Contract.
Packing List.
Bill of Lading.
Detailed List.
Original Phytosanitary Certificate.
Any other relevant documents (if applicable).
This helps ensure that the importation process of wood from Africa into Vietnam proceeds smoothly and complies with customs regulations and taxes.
V. Import Procedure
Currently, the import procedure for wood from Africa, whether in split or round form, follows a similar process. Below is the specific procedure that both individuals and businesses can refer to:
Step 1: Prepare Necessary Documents and Paperwork
Firstly, you need to check if the imported wood is listed in the CITES appendix. If so, you must obtain a permit from CITES along with preparing the required documents and paperwork. In case it's not listed in the CITES appendix, you only need to prepare documents following the standard procedure.
Step 2: Register for Phytosanitary Inspection
Phytosanitary inspection is a mandatory step for wood imports. This needs to be done before you lodge the customs declaration. Refer to the phytosanitary inspection procedure in section VI of this article.
Step 3: Open customs clearance
With sufficient initial documents and paperwork, you commence the process of lodging the customs declaration for the shipment. Ensure to include the registration number for phytosanitary inspection in the declaration to facilitate the inspection process.
Step 4: Conduct Inspection and Phytosanitary Examination Procedures
Individuals or businesses will submit documents and the customs declaration to customs officers as per regulations. Subsequently, the wood products will undergo inspection at the port and samples will be taken for phytosanitary examination. The entire process will be guided at the customs office.
Step 5: Receive Inspection Results and Complete Customs Clearance
Upon receiving the inspection results, you need to contact customs officials to obtain customs clearance permits. At this stage, you only need to print the declaration, barcode, and related Delivery Order (D/O) from the port to claim the goods.
Importing wood into Vietnam from Africa
It's not as complicated as you might think. With adequate document preparation and adherence to the correct procedure, everything will be extremely convenient for both individuals and businesses. If you have any further questions, please contact H-Cargo for quick and free consultation and support.
Contact us:
Mr. Kate Cu - Sales Executive
Email: kate.cu@hcargovn.com
Hotline/Zalo/Whatsapp: +84 39 266 3325
Comments