SITC & APHIS Inspect Imports to Prevent Entry of Pests, Diseases & Invasive Species
Countries throughout the world are constantly discovering new animal and plant pests and diseases, and then must study their response to quarantine and eradication. Through the program Smuggling Interdiction and Trade Compliance (SITC), the U.S. government works to prevent the unlawful entry of products that may present a risk of harboring pests, diseases and invasive species that can harm humans and devastate the environment, crops, agricultural animals and community landscapes.
The efforts of SITC and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) are critical to the safe flow of trade by keeping U.S. industries free of pests and diseases, while also ensuring U.S. products being exported meet the entry requirements of other countries. Certain products that may be admissible in one’s country can pose dangers to another nation’s agriculture and economy. International exhibitors who are considering importing their food into the U.S. should investigate whether the plant or animal ingredients used in their manufacture could contain prohibited products.
To prevent the entry and spread of harmful and costly pests and diseases, APHIS employs many processes and importers must be aware of the latest restrictions and regulations that can be revised as new pests and diseases are identified. International exhibitors planning food shipments to U.S. trade shows can direct their inquiries to the show-appointed Customs broker who is knowledgeable about USDA, FDA and Customs regulations.
Importers can also visit the APHIS Imports and Exports page regarding importation of plant and animal by-products with the intent of commercial use aphis.usda.gov . The APHIS page provides detailed import information in English but does not offer multi-language translation of the content.