List of India products that need special clearance for shipping to Australia

If you are in a business that requires shipping products abroad, then you must be aware of the challenges of customs and regulations. Different countries have different laws and that makes these challenges even more daunting. The country of Australia has a set of complex regulations that must be understood properly before shipping products to Down Under.

The land of Australia is extremely unique. It is cut off from the rest of the world, and this geographical positioning has resulted in the development of its distinct flora and fauna. The Australian government, naturally, is keen on protecting its distinct ecosystem from any foreign exposure. Hence, customs clearance to Australia is tricky.

Australia’s flora and fauna are highly vulnerable to foreign pests, diseases, and invasive species. Hence, the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) have come up with stringent import controls to protect native flora and fauna. The export regulations for Australia India trade thus are very complex.

Many products and goods can look harmless, but they can carry risks such as contaminants or prohibited materials. Hence, Australia has special rules for their import and at times includes them in prohibited products for Australia import.

In this blog we will look at the Indian products that need special clearance when shipping to Australia. This blog also offers insights and practical tips for a seamless process and about special permits for shipping to Australia.

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Indian Products Requiring Special Clearance

1. Food Items and Spices

   Indian spices and food items have stirred the interest of the world for ages. India's spices, snacks, and homemade delicacies have a huge demand across the world, including Australia.

   However, these items face strict scrutiny in Australia. The reason being, the Biosecurity Import Conditions system (BICON) has strict regulations when it comes to food import. This is done to prevent pests and diseases.

   The key considerations in this segment include

   • Spices and Condiments : Several whole spices, including cumin and cardamom, can require phytosanitary certificates. This is to confirm they are free of pests. Roasted or processed spices get a go-ahead after they are declared and inspected. Green coffee beans, including Kopi Luwak, also require phytosanitary certificates, and they can only be imported after being roasted.
   • Packaged Foods: If you are sending snacks, pickles, and sweets in packaged forms, then they must adhere to the compliances prescribed by the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code. The packages must be accurately and clearly labeled with the country of origin and ingredients. There is a high chance of unlabeled foods being seized owing to the biosecurity risks. Sometimes, homemade food also meets the same fate.
   • Perishables: Fresh fruits, vegetables, or dairy products come under severe restrictions.
   • Clearance Requirements: Importers are mandated to show commercial invoices, packing lists, and foreign government certificates under the Imported Food Inspection Scheme for certain foods.

2. Plant-Based Products and Handicrafts

   India’s handicrafts, including wooden carvings, jute bags, or bamboo items, have a huge demand as well. But they too come under heavy scrutiny.

   • Wooden Items: All wooden products need to be fumigated. The shipper also has to showcase the fumigation certificate. Untreated wood comes with the risk of introducing pests like termites. Hence, the strict laws.
   • Plant Materials: Items like wreaths, potpourri, or dried flowers have the potential of pest contamination. So their import in Australia is subject to approval and inspection.

3. Animal Products

   Animal-derived products are a massive feature of Indian exports. But when it comes to exporting to Australia, they have to undergo rigorous biosecurity checks.

   • Leather Goods: Items made from leather, such as bags or shoes, need to be completely clean. They must not have any animal hair or soil on them.
   • Feathers and Wool: Decorative items having feathers or raw wool on them must be free of contaminants.
   • Clearance Requirements: Permits from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water (DCCEEW) can be required for certain products, especially those that are wildlife-derived products.

4. Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals

   India’s pharmaceutical products are loved by the world for their affordable prices and effectiveness. Hence, India is known as the pharmacy of the world. But despite that, there are several complexities while sending medicines to Australia.

   • Medicines: Prescription and over-the-counter drugs are not allowed through courier if they do not have a valid prescription and a government clearance.
   • Industrial Chemicals: Products like cosmetics, soaps, or adhesives must meet the safety standards. Only then are they permitted to be exported to Australia.

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Documentation and Tips for Smooth Shipping

Documentation plays a key role in the smooth facilitation of shipping products to Australia from India. To ensure compliance, Indian exporters must prepare the following documents:

• Commercial Invoice: The invoice includes details of the transaction. It also includes the product description and value.
• Packing List: This document has a list of all the contents and quantity of each package.
• Certificate of Origin: It is important for customs authorities to know where the product if manufactured. Hence, the certificate of origin is needed to verify the product’s country of manufacture.
• Permits/Certificates: Certain products may need additional permits and certificates.

Tips For Shipping Products to Australia

• Use strong and tamper-resistant packaging. Ensure that you have clear labeling to avoid customs delays.
• Check BICON for specific import conditions before shipping.
• Make sure you thoroughly check the list of prohibited items and avoid shipping them.

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Costs and Considerations

Importers face customs duties, which are generally 5%, and a 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST). Plus there can be biosecurity fees as well.

Goods under AUD 1,000 are duty-free. However, they still require declaration. Alcohol, tobacco, and high-value items will cost you additional taxes.

Also note that delays due to incomplete documentation or port congestion can end up increasing costs, so plan ahead.

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Use Atlantic International Express to Ship Products to Australia

Shipping Indian products to Australia offers immense opportunities, but compliance with customs and biosecurity regulations is non-negotiable.

Hence, it is vital to connect with a logistics company that has the experience and the understanding of all these aspects. Atlantic International Express is a leading courier service provider with expertise in shipping products to Australia. Plus, our India to Australia courier charges are extremely affordable.

We offer technology-driven tools and provide complete assistance to help you navigate customs and other issues. So connect with us now!