The world of plant propagation is vast and varied, with tissue culture plants standing out as a particularly innovative and important method. This technique, also known as micropropagation, involves growing plants from very small sections of tissues or cells in a nutrient-rich medium under sterile conditions. This method is vital for agriculture, research, and horticulture, offering a way to produce large numbers of disease-free, genetically identical plants.
The demand for tissue culture plants has gone global, with countries like the Netherlands, Thailand, and the United States (US) being major players in the export market. This blog explores the complexities, regulations, and logistical challenges associated with the international shipping of tissue culture plants.
Navigating customs and regulations
1. Prohibited and restricted items
Various countries have specific prohibitions and restrictions on the import of certain plant tissue cultures. These measures are designed to prevent the introduction of invasive species, diseases, pests, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that could potentially harm the environment or disrupt existing ecosystems. The nature of these restrictions often depends on the unique ecological, agricultural, and social context of the importing country.
Plants listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) are often restricted or prohibited. For instance, orchids and certain cacti species, which are frequently involved in tissue culture, may require special permits or be completely banned from export or import if they are considered endangered.
2. Taxes and duties
Duties and taxes are another critical aspect of shipping costs. The de minimis rule, which sets a value threshold below which no taxes or duties are charged on the imported items, varies by country. For example, the de minimis threshold in the US is relatively high, at US$800. This means that most tissue culture plants shipped into the US with a value under this amount will not be subject to import duties or taxes, making it an attractive market for exporters.
Harmonised System (HS) codes are used internationally to classify products and determine the tariffs applied. AFTA codes are relevant for shipments within ASEAN countries, potentially lowering duties among member states.
For example, tissue culture plants may be classified under HS code 0602.90, which covers "Other live plants (including their roots), cuttings and slips; mushroom spawn." The duty rate applied to these items can vary by country, affecting the cost of importing these plants.
For ASEAN countries, the AFTA agreement may reduce or eliminate tariffs on certain goods, including tissue culture plants, when shipped between member states. For instance, a shipment of tissue culture plants from Thailand to Vietnam might benefit from reduced tariffs under AFTA, compared to shipments from non-ASEAN countries.
3. Required documentation and permits for cross-border shipments
Navigating the complexities of international shipping from Thailand requires a thorough understanding and meticulous preparation of the necessary documentation and permits. This is especially true for the shipment of tissue culture plants, where the risk of spreading pests and diseases necessitates stringent regulatory oversight. Some of these documents include:
- Plant quarantine certificate: This document confirms plants are pest-free, meeting the import country's phytosanitary standards, and ensuring no threat to local ecosystems.
- Export licences: Allow goods exportation, requiring adherence to local and international regulations, especially for agricultural and botanical products.
- Invoices and accurate product descriptions: Ensure shipments match documentation and comply with import regulations, detailing contents, scientific names, and total value.
Missteps in this area, such as incorrect product descriptions or values, can lead to delays or confiscation of shipments. For example, a shipment of 'Monstera deliciosa' tissue culture plants valued at $5,000 intended for delivery to a nursery in the Netherlands must have an invoice that clearly outlines these details.
To avoid delays at customs, ensure that all required documents are accurately filled out and fully compliant with the importing country's regulations. Contact our hotline 24/7 at 02-345-5000 before making shipment.
4. Packaging methods for tissue culture plants
Understanding how to pack tissue culture plants for shipping is key to successfully delivering them. It is not merely about putting them in a box; it's about ensuring they arrive alive, healthy, and uncontaminated. This process includes:
- Maintaining sterility and preventing contamination: Since these plants are grown in sterile conditions, it’s crucial that packaging maintains these conditions to prevent contamination.
- Selection of appropriate shipping containers and materials: This might involve wrapping the roots in paper towels and foam nets to protect them from water loss and ensure they remain hydrated.
- Labelling requirements: Proper labelling is essential not only for regulatory compliance but also to ensure the careful handling of the packages.
