FAQs About International Trade |
Where can I get a Certificate of Free Sale?
Certificates of Free Sale for food and agriculture products are issued by the Department of Agriculture’s Dairy and Food Inspection Division. For more information contact:
When do I need a phytosanitary certificate and where can I get one?
Generally, a phytosanitary certificate, or phyto, is needed for bulk commodities and live plant materials. The U.S. does not issue phytosanitary certificates for processed products even though a foreign customer may request one. Phytos are issued through the Department of Agriculture’s Plant Protection Division, 651-201-6558 or 651-201-6619. Phytosanitary Certification
What is a harmonized code number or a Schedule B number?
World trading partners use the harmonized system (HS) to classify products for applying proper tariff rates. These harmonized codes are generally up to 10 digits long. The first six digits of a HS number will be the same in any country. The last four digits can vary by market. The Schedule B numbers are used by the U.S. government to track exported products. This number is required on a number of export shipping documents.
Where can I find the proper harmonized system number?
The proper HS number is determined by the importing country. To verify that you are using the proper number, you can check with your importer or contact the Foreign Agriculture Service in a foreign market. Often times, exporters will provide a Schedule B number on their documents. It’s important to note that the product classification and subsequent tariff rate can change if customs officials in a foreign market dictate that the Schedule B number is not correct for their country.
Where can I find my Schedule B number?
The U.S. Census Bureau publishes the Schedule B classifications.
Where can I find tariff rates for my product in foreign markets?
The World Trade Organization has published tariff schedules as submitted by foreign governments upon the completion of the Uruguay Round of multilateral trade negotiations. These rates should be used as a reference and up-to-date tariff rates should be confirmed. World Trade Organizations Tariff Schedule
You can also find information on tariff rates negotiated in trade agreements through the U.S. Trade Representative office.
Where can I get free market research information on foreign markets?
There are several free resources for food and agriculture market research. Some of the most frequently listed sites are listed here.
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USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)
FAS is the leading agency for foreign market intelligence dedicated to the food and agriculture sector. FAS has offices around the world that glean information to assist U.S. exporters. The U.S. Trade Online Database offers U.S. trade statistics (exports and imports) based on country or region, and by HS Code or product grouping. The GAIN system includes reports from FAS’s global offices that outline market opportunities and foreign country requirements.
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Economic Research Service: ERS publishes briefs and reports that feature specific countries or issues affecting the food and agriculture industry worldwide.
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Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: Country briefs, profiles and statistics
Where can I find information on a country’s tolerance for food additives and/or pesticide residues?
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Links to information on international food safety standards including Maximum Residue Limits for pesticides.
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