Importing Live Animals Process

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Importing Live Animals Process and Customs Procedures by IpoLogistics

1. Overview of the Live Animal Import Process

Importing Live Animals Process is a complex process that requires strict adherence to regulations regarding quarantine, biosecurity, environmental protection, and legal compliance. Due to the specificity of this process, companies must prepare adequate documentation and follow the correct customs and quarantine procedures to ensure the process is smooth and legal. IpoLogistics, with its solid experience in international logistics, assists businesses in managing the live animal import process, from document preparation, customs declaration, quarantine procedures to clearance and delivery.

2. Legal Regulations Related to Live Animal Import

2.1 Basic Legal Framework

The import of live animals into Vietnam is governed by strict regulations designed to protect public health, prevent disease transmission, and safeguard the ecosystem. Key legal documents include:

  • Customs Law No. 54/2014/QH13: Regulates customs procedures and controls for imported goods, including live animals.
  • Veterinary Law No. 79/2015/QH13: Governs animal quarantine procedures, animal product safety, and disease prevention in the import process.
  • Circular No. 27/2018/TT-BNNPTNT: Provides guidelines on animal quarantine, which includes requirements for permits and inspections for live animal imports.
  • Circular No. 17/2019/TT-BNNPTNT: Specifies quarantine requirements for live animals, particularly endangered and high-risk species.

The authorities involved in the process include the Vietnam Customs Department, the Department of Animal Health (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development), and the quarantine agencies at customs checkpoints.

2.2 Types of Live Animals Requiring Quarantine

Live animals that are imported into Vietnam must undergo mandatory quarantine procedures. The requirements vary depending on the species. These include:

  • Livestock (e.g., cattle, buffaloes, horses, donkeys): These animals require strict quarantine measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
  • Poultry (e.g., chickens, ducks, geese, quails): Poultry must be tested for diseases like avian influenza.
  • Wild and endangered animals: These animals require both quarantine and special permits from CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).

3. HS Codes and Import Duties for Live Animals

3.1 HS Code for Live Animals

The Harmonized System (HS) code is an international classification system used for goods and to determine import duties. Live animals are categorized under different HS codes depending on the species. Some common HS codes include:

  • HS Code 0101: Horses, mules, asses, and other live bovine animals.
  • HS Code 0102: Cattle, buffaloes, and other live livestock.
  • HS Code 0105: Live poultry (chickens, ducks, geese).
  • HS Code 0106: Other live animals (including wild animals, pets).

Correctly identifying the HS code is essential as it affects the applicable duties and customs procedures.

3.2 Customs Duties and Import Taxes

Customs duties for live animal imports are based on the HS code and applicable regulations. The main taxes involved are:

  • Import Duties: These duties typically range from 0% to 40%, depending on the animal species and HS code.
  • Value Added Tax (VAT): VAT is applied at 10% for most imported goods, including live animals.
  • Excise Tax: This may apply to certain high-value or endangered species.

Accurate tax calculation requires consulting with tax experts or customs agents.

4. Live Animal Import Process

The live animal import process consists of several steps, including document preparation, customs declaration, quarantine, and clearance. IpoLogistics provides support in each step of this process.

4.1 Step 1: Preparing Import Documentation

Before starting the import process, companies need to prepare the following documents:

  • International Sales Contract: Confirms the legal purchase of live animals.
  • Commercial Invoice: Indicates the value and quantity of the animals.
  • Health Certificate: Issued by the exporting country’s authorities, confirming that the animals are free from contagious diseases.
  • Import Quarantine Permit: Issued by Vietnam’s Department of Animal Health, authorizing the import of live animals.

4.2 Step 2: Customs Declaration and Quarantine

  • Customs Declaration: The importer must declare the goods via the VNACCS/VCIS system, the electronic customs system of Vietnam. This system helps businesses declare information about goods, HS codes, duties, and relevant documents.
  • Quarantine at the Port of Entry: Live animals are inspected for health and biosecurity at the entry port. The Department of Animal Health will verify documentation and perform health checks before issuing a quarantine certificate.

4.3 Step 3: Physical Inspection and Customs Clearance

  • Physical Inspection: Customs and quarantine agencies may perform physical inspections to ensure there are no risks of disease.
  • Customs Clearance: Once all procedures are completed and quarantine certificates are issued, the goods are cleared through customs and ready for delivery.

5. Important Considerations When Importing Live Animals

5.1 Disease Control and Biosecurity

Live animals can carry infectious diseases that pose risks to public health. Therefore, quarantine procedures must be rigorously followed. Businesses should ensure that their shipments are fully quarantined and free from diseases.

5.2 Endangered and Wild Animal Species

For wild and endangered species, the import process requires additional permits, such as CITES certification, to prevent illegal trafficking and ensure the protection of species.

5.3 Live Animal Transportation Conditions

Transporting live animals requires specialized vehicles that maintain safe living conditions. Containers must ensure proper temperature, humidity, and space to protect the animals throughout their journey.

6. IpoLogistics’ Role in the Live Animal Import Process

IpoLogistics offers a complete range of services to businesses importing live animals, including:

  • Legal Consulting: Providing guidance on applicable laws and regulations for live animal imports.
  • Customs Declaration and Quarantine Procedures: Assisting businesses with customs declarations and ensuring compliance with quarantine requirements.
  • International Transport: Ensuring that live animals are transported safely and securely, according to international standards.

7. Conclusion

The live animal import process is complex and requires careful preparation, strict adherence to legal, customs, and quarantine regulations. IpoLogistics, with its experience and expertise in international logistics, is committed to helping businesses navigate the import process efficiently, legally, and safely.

 

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