Proposed draft Import Health Standard for Sea Containers

The New Zealand Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) must consult with interested parties before issuing or amending (other than of minor nature) standards in accordance with Section 22 of the Biosecurity Act (1993) and Biosecurity New Zealand's consultation policy.

The MAF Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ) Draft Import Health Standard SEACO 'Import Health Standard for Sea Containers' specifies the requirements for importers to meet when importing sea containers into New Zealand and actions that must be taken by supply chain parties responsible for the movement and management of containers to their final destination to manage biosecurity pests and contamination.

The draft import health standard format is different from the current standard in that it is split into two documents - the standard and an accompanying reference document. The standard intends to clearly specify the clearance outcomes that must be met. The reference document provides detail about how those outcomes can be met, where equivalent options can be employed, and outlines actions that MAFBNZ can take.

Comments are invited on the Draft Import Health Standard and Reference Document from members of the public and other interested parties.

MAFBNZ is also providing the Segment Strategy for Sea Containers as part of the consultation package to help inform readers about MAFBNZs priorities around the the sea container pathway and some of the drivers around amending the draft Import Health Standard and reference documents.

Segment strategies outline the characteristics, specific objectives, priorities, and key biosecurity risks of a pathway. They also outline some high-level options for managing risk within the segment and engaging with domestic and international stakeholders involved within the pathway.

Supporting Documentation

Consultation on the segment strategy for sea containers is not being requested, however if members of the public wish to comment they are able to do so. Please highlight that the feedback is on the segment strategy.

Please return any comments to MAF by close of business Friday 19th June, 2009.

Send responses either by email to standards@maf.govt.nz with 'Draft Import Health Standard for Sea Containers' in the subject line

Or post to:
Re: Draft Import Health Standard for Sea Containers
c/o Barbara Wickenden
Operations Team
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand
PO Box 2526
Wellington 6011

Page last updated: 8 May 2009