If you export, and the products you export use wood for packaging and/or crating, this update applies to you.  For background information regarding export wood packaging leading up to this update, click here for our Export Issues Table of Contents selection.

 

 

• The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), who has ultimate oversight of the IPPC multilateral treaty, is expected to have the “NO BUG” symbol (stamp) issue resolved by the end of April, 2003.  This will allow the program to go forward with protected stamps.

• The US Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is expected to adopt the IPPC standard for imported non-manufactured hardwood and softwood in August or September, 2003.  The new standard will apply to all imports with the exception of wood from Canada.  Mexican imports will be subject to the IPPC standard.

• The European Union (EU), which has already implemented requirements for heat treating of coniferous solid wood products, is expected to adopt the IPPC by July, 2003.  This means hardwoods would be included in the new standard and must meet the HT or fumigation requirements and have the proper stamps.

·        China is not a participant in the IPPC.  However, China has announced that they will adopt all or part of the IPPC standard, possibly as early as June 1, 2003.  USDA certification may still be a China requirement even after adoption. (USDA Form PPQ 553)

 

·        For exportation to the EU and/or China, non-manufactured hardwood packaging which has been exempt from HT requirements will have to meet the HT or fumigation standards as softwoods do now starting maybe as early as mid to late summer, 2003.  There will no doubt be some grace period allowances, however, this is a decision made by the importing countries individually.

·        Hardwood and Softwood non-manufactured packaging lumber imported into the US (except from Canada) will be required to comply with the IPPC standard (HT or fumigation).

   

 

• Call a Conner Sales Representative at (800) 543-4893 or email info@connerindustries.com  if you have any questions or concerns regarding the IPPC standards or what it may mean to you and your company.  See our website www.connerindustries.com,  “EXPORT ISSUES” for more details. 

• All Conner locations stock Heat Treated (HT) lumber as well as exempt engineered wood products for domestic and export wood needs.