Fish Meal Import Process

Fish Meal Import Process and Customs Procedures by IPOLogistics

I. Introduction to Fish Meal and its Importance in Importing to Vietnam

Fish Meal Import Process – Fish meal is a high-protein product made from fresh or dried fish through grinding, primarily used in animal feed production for livestock, poultry, and aquaculture. Due to its high nutritional value, fish meal is widely used in various industries. In Vietnam, the increasing demand in livestock and aquaculture industries has led to the necessity of importing fish meal from major producing countries such as Peru, Chile, India, and Southeast Asian nations.

Given the significant role of fish meal in Vietnam’s animal and aquaculture feed industry, IPOLogistics, a leading logistics service provider, offers comprehensive solutions for fish meal importation, covering the entire process from paperwork preparation, customs clearance, to transportation.

This article will provide a detailed guide to the fish meal import process and customs procedures conducted by IPOLogistics, helping businesses understand the necessary steps to ensure smooth and legal importation.

II. The Fish Meal Import Process

1. Selecting Suppliers and Signing the Contract

The first step in the import process is to find a reliable supplier. Businesses must carefully assess the credibility of suppliers, ensuring product quality, competitive prices, and timely delivery. Once a supplier is selected, a purchase agreement should be signed with clear terms such as:

• Quantity and quality of fish meal.
• Delivery terms (Incoterms), typically CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) or FOB (Free On Board).
• Payment terms, including L/C (Letter of Credit) or T/T (Telegraphic Transfer).
• Responsibilities of both parties.

2. Preparing Import Documents

To complete the customs procedures for importing fish meal, businesses must prepare the following documents:

• Sales Contract: Proves the transaction between the buyer and seller.
• Commercial Invoice: Reflects the value of the goods, used for calculating customs duties.
• Bill of Lading: A document confirming the shipment of goods from the exporter’s port to the importer’s port.
• Packing List: A detailed list showing the quantity, weight, dimensions, and packaging of the goods.
• Certificate of Origin (C/O): To prove the goods’ origin and qualify for preferential tariffs if there are free trade agreements.
• Veterinary Certificate: Required if the fish meal is derived from animal products, issued by the exporting country’s authorities.
• Quality and Food Safety Certificate: Ensures the fish meal meets safety and quality standards for animal feed.

3. Classifying HS Code and Determining Import Taxes

The Harmonized System (HS) Code is essential for classifying goods and determining the applicable taxes. For fish meal, the HS Code typically used is:

• HS Code: 2301.20 – “Flours, meals and pellets of fish, fit for animal feed.”

Determining the correct HS Code ensures the right customs duty and tax rates are applied. The standard import duty rate for fish meal under HS Code 2301.20 is around 5%.

Additionally, VAT at 5% is applied on the CIF value plus customs duties. Other fees may include customs processing fees, veterinary inspection fees, quality inspection fees, and logistics costs.

4. Customs Declaration and Tax Payment

After preparing all necessary documents, the business submits a customs declaration through Vietnam’s electronic customs system (VNACCS/VCIS). Information required includes the HS code, quantity, value, origin, and accompanying documents.

Once the declaration is made, customs authorities review the validity of the documents and request the payment of import duties, VAT, and other fees. These payments can typically be made at the customs office or through the bank.

5. Goods Inspection and Veterinary Check

After the declaration, customs may conduct physical inspections. For fish meal, veterinary checks may be required, especially if the product comes from animal sources.

• Veterinary Inspection: Ensures the fish meal is free of pathogens and complies with health regulations.
• Quality Inspection: Ensures the fish meal meets Vietnamese food safety and quality standards.

6. Customs Clearance and Goods Release

Once the inspection and veterinary checks are completed, customs will issue a clearance order. The goods will be released and can be transported from the port to the business’s warehouse.

III. Taxes and Fees Related to Fish Meal Importation

1. Import Taxes

• Import Duty: Calculated based on the CIF value of the shipment, typically around 5% for fish meal under HS Code 2301.20.
• VAT: 5% VAT is applied on the CIF value plus import duty.

2. Other Fees

• Customs Fees: Includes fees for customs declaration and inspection.
• Veterinary Inspection Fees: Required for animal-based products.
• Quality Inspection Fees: For meeting safety and quality standards.
• Logistics Fees: Includes international shipping, port storage, and local delivery fees.

IV. Benefits of Using IPOLogistics Services

IPOLogistics provides a comprehensive fish meal import service that helps businesses save time and costs in the entire importation process. Key benefits include:

• Expert Consultancy: Ensures businesses understand the import process, from supplier selection and HS classification to customs declaration.
• Minimizing Legal Risks: IPOLogistics’ expertise helps businesses avoid errors in customs procedures and tax compliance.
• Efficient Services: Fast customs clearance due to the use of electronic customs systems and professional team management.
• Cost Optimization: Transparent pricing, ensuring cost-effective logistics solutions and reducing unnecessary fees.

V. Conclusion

Importing fish meal is a complex process that requires a thorough understanding of customs regulations, tax policies, veterinary inspections, and food safety procedures. To ensure that goods are imported legally and efficiently, businesses should partner with a trusted logistics provider like IPOLogistics. With professional expertise and a streamlined process, IPOLogistics ensures a fast and cost-effective importation process, helping businesses remain compliant with regulations and optimize their supply chains.

If your business is looking to import fish meal, contact IPOLogistics for expert guidance and support!