CANADA WILL phase in its new import requirements for wood packaging, due for implementation from January next year (FTW November 14, 2003). In terms of the new regulations all untreated, non-manufactured wood packaging from anywhere in the world apart from the US will be refused entry. The policy change brings Canada’s import regulations into line with a new international standard regulating wood packaging used in trade. Part 1 of the phase-in will see notices being issued for wood packaging materials that are not in compliance with the requirements, starting on January 2, 2004. If material is found to contain regulated pests during this phase-in period, the appropriate phytosanitary procedures will be implemented. Strict enforcement of the new legislation will begin in late 2004 to mid-2005. A new target date for strict enforcement will be set once the legislation for Canada, the US and Mexico is in place. “The phase-in period will not however alleviate the issue of costs which may be associated with rememdies should such prohibited wood packing be detected, but it will alleviate the immediate implementation of fines which may be implemented in future,” CargoCare MD Roland Raath told FTW. Full details of the requirements can be accessed online at: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/protect/dir/d-98-08e.shtml)
