Regulation of Imports

Import Permit Applications must be received at least 7 days prior to placing an order for purchase of a plant or plant product. For low risk commodities permits are issued within 7 days of receipt of the application. Importers are asked to complete the application form especially with the contact numbers so that any issues regarding the application may be communicated without delay.

Conditions attached to an Import Permit must be adhered to fully by the importer. Failure to do so is in contravention of import regulations and will result in phytosanitary actions at the expense of the importer. Penalties may also apply.

Pest Risk Analyses must be conducted for plant or plant products being requested for importation.
a. Certain commodities may require on site (at origin) verification. The cost of such procedures must be borne by the Importer/Exporter as well as any other relevant fees as per BAHA regulation, Statutory Instrument No. 182 of 2004.
b. Compliance agreements, for post entry quarantine may be requested prior to issuance of a permit.

Certain commodities may require clearance/approval as dictated by other national authorities in accordance with local or international law, regulations, standards, conventions or agreements. Such procedures may delay the issuance of permits by BAHA or may result in BAHA denying a request for importation.