Plants > Forestry > Wood Packaging 

September 3, 2004

MEMORANDUM TO:
Participants in the Canadian Wood Packaging Certification Program
Canadian Grading Agencies
Participants in Certified Lumber Export Programs
CFIA Network Directors
Plant Health Division, Forestry Section
Plant Health Division, Export/Import Section

SUBJECT: Forestry Phytosanitary Update #10: Shipments of Wood Packaging to New Zealand

On December 29, 2003 CFIA issued a letter regarding wood packaging requirements to New Zealand and Australia. New Zealand requirements remain as per that letter and those are reproduced below. The requirements pertaining to Australia have changed since that time and can be found in Update #9.

On April 16th, 2003, New Zealand introduced new phytosanitary regulations controlling the entry of wood packaging. Under the new measures, imports must be treated prior to entry as per the standards established in ISPM 15 Guidelines for the Movement of Wood Packaging Used in International Trade, or be treated in a manner acceptable to New Zealand.

The wood packaging must meet one of the two following requirements:

• Heat treatment: 56°C measured at the core of the wood and held at that temperature for at least 30 minutes, or,
• Fumigated: Methyl bromide at specific rates (for details please consult ISPM 15)

The wood packaging must also be marked using an internationally recognized symbol. Certificates will not be accepted. CFIA has established a certification approach for Canadian wood packaging that meets the specifications of ISPM 15. For further information on this program, please consult Policy Directive: D-01-05 or by contacting a local office of the CFIA.

Should you wish further information regarding the entry of wood packaging to New Zealand or other countries, please consult the CFIA Forestry Section website, or contact a local office of the CFIA.

Regards,

Marcel Dawson
A/National Manager, Forestry Section