ISPM No.15 for Canada/US Shipments
Monday, 28 July 2008 19:00
Please note that the CFIA is moving forward with consultations on the proposed removal of the exemption of the International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM) No. 15 on wood packaging material moving between Canada and the U.S.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) are developing a strategy which would involve a multi-year phase-in period for an eventual full implementation of the International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM) No. 15 for wood packaging material (WPM) moving between the two countries. Ultimately, all WPM moving between Canada and the United States would be required to be treated in accordance with the ISPM No. 15 standard and marked with an officially approved mark, as is the case for WPM moving in international trade.
Industry, stakeholders, exporters, importers, brokers, wood packaging manufacturers and interest groups are encouraged to provide comments on this proposed strategy to CFIA within the next 90 days.
To view the proposed implementation plan, please consult the following Web site at: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/for/cwpc/consulte.shtml
We encourage you to send your comments, questions or concerns on this matter by October 22, 2008 through a feedback form available on the following Web site: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/tools/feedback/consult/ispmconsule.shtml The implementation of ISPM No.15 standard for WPM on such material moving between Canada and the U.S. would enhance protection of forests against pests of quarantine concern, and would allow for more opportunities for the use of wood packaging in the international marketplace, where ISPM No.15 is in place. The proposed phase-in period is expected to allow sufficient time, for all concerned, to take the necessary steps to comply accordingly.
