Importing Animal Hides

Importing Animal Hides by Ipologistics

1. Introduction to Animal Hide Importation

Vietnam’s leather industry heavily relies on imported animal hides as raw materials for manufacturing footwear, fashion items, and furniture. However, importing animal hides is a complex process that requires compliance with stringent customs and quarantine regulations.

If your company is considering importing animal hides but lacks experience, Ipologistics is here to guide you through every step, providing professional consultation and end-to-end import services to ensure your shipment adheres to all regulations, saving you time and costs.

2. Types of Animal Hides and HS Codes

The first step in importing animal hides is to correctly identify the type of hide and its corresponding HS code. This classification determines the import duties, customs procedures, and associated requirements.

Common types of hides and their HS codes include:

• Raw or semi-processed bovine and buffalo hides: HS Code 4101.
• Raw or semi-processed sheep and goat hides: HS Code 4102.
• Raw or semi-processed pig hides: HS Code 4103.
• Hides of other animals (e.g., horse, crocodile): HS Code 4106.
• Tanned bovine and buffalo hides: HS Code 4104.

Accurate HS code classification ensures smooth customs declarations and prevents legal issues during the import process.

3. Legal Framework and State Policies on Animal Hide Imports

Importing animal hides into Vietnam is governed by a wide range of legal documents related to customs, animal quarantine, and international trade agreements. These regulations ensure public health, environmental protection, and wildlife conservation.

3.1. Key Legal Documents

• Customs Law 2014: Governs all customs procedures for imported goods, including animal hides. It mandates complete and accurate declarations of goods, including origin and value.
• Decree 69/2018/ND-CP: Implements specific provisions of the Law on Foreign Trade Management regarding imports, including quarantine and customs inspections for animal-derived products.
• Circular 25/2016/TT-BNNPTNT: Details quarantine requirements for animals and animal products imported into Vietnam. All animal products, including hides, must undergo quarantine at the port of entry.
• CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species): Regulates the trade of endangered wildlife. If the hides are from CITES-listed species (e.g., crocodile, wild horse), an official CITES permit is mandatory for legal importation.

3.2. State Policies on Animal Hide Importation

• Import Duties: Import taxes range from 0% to 10%, depending on the type of hide and the country of origin. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may provide reduced or zero tariffs for eligible countries.
• Restrictions and Prohibitions: Hides of endangered wildlife species are either restricted or prohibited from import. Identifying the species and acquiring necessary permits are critical.
• Animal Quarantine: All animal hides must pass quarantine checks by Vietnam’s veterinary agencies at the port of entry to ensure they are free of pathogens or harmful parasites.

4. Ipologistics’ Animal Hide Import Process

Ipologistics offers a comprehensive import service, handling every stage from initial consultation to delivery of goods. Below is a detailed breakdown of our process:

Step 1: Consultation and Document Preparation

Before initiating the import, we assist you with:

• Identifying the Type of Hide and HS Code: Ensuring accurate classification for a smooth customs process.
• Legal Compliance Checks: We verify legal requirements, including the necessity for a CITES permit.
• Document Preparation:
  • Commercial contract.
  • Commercial invoice.
  • Packing list.
  • Animal quarantine certificate from the exporting country.
  • Certificate of origin.
  • CITES permit (if applicable).

Step 2: Export Quarantine and Permits

Ipologistics liaises with the exporting country’s authorities to obtain necessary documents, including the animal quarantine certificate. For hides of endangered species, we guide you in acquiring a CITES permit to ensure compliance with international trade laws.

Step 3: Customs Clearance in Vietnam

Upon the shipment’s arrival at Vietnamese ports, our team will:

1. File Electronic Customs Declarations: Using VNACCS/VCIS systems to input accurate data on HS codes, origin, value, and other details.
2. Submit Animal Quarantine Documentation: Ensuring the exporting country’s certificates are valid and complete.
3. Conduct Inspections: Facilitate customs or quarantine inspections to verify shipment accuracy.
4. Complete Clearance: Finalize procedures to release goods for domestic use or transport.

Step 4: Transport and Delivery

Ipologistics arranges secure transportation of your goods to your warehouse, ensuring proper storage conditions to preserve the quality of the hides.

5. Why Choose Ipologistics?

When partnering with Ipologistics, you gain:

• Expert Consultation: Comprehensive guidance on all legal, procedural, and documentation requirements.
• Full Legal Compliance: Assurance of compliance with customs, quarantine, and regulatory laws.
• Cost Efficiency: Optimized processes to minimize unnecessary expenses.
• End-to-End Service: From consultation to delivery, we manage all aspects of your importation.

6. Conclusion

Importing animal hides into Vietnam involves complex legal and procedural requirements. With Ipologistics by your side, you can navigate these complexities with ease. We are committed to providing professional, efficient, and compliant import services, ensuring the success of your animal hide imports.