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AgVetLink: Number 65, December 2007

Do They Match?

In September MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, on behalf of the ACVM Group, carried out a survey in Auckland to assess whether the labels on imported ACVM registered products matched those that are approved and posted on the ACVM website. One in ten consignments were chosen at random and placed on a MAF 'Hold for Inspection' at an approved transitional facility. During this month, MAF received 70 import applications, so seven consignments were inspected.

The results of the survey showed that in 57% (4 out of 7) of the consignments inspected, the labels on the products matched the labels on the website. The other three consignments were referred to the ACVM Group for action. In one case the information posted on the website was incorrect. The other two consignments did not comply with requirements. However, this sample size was too small and the range of products too limited (only registered trade name products were stopped) to determine the level of compliance at the border by importers of products managed under the ACVM Act. Therefore, an expanded survey is planned for the first quarter of 2008 and a larger sample of all ACVM regulated products will be inspected.

Note to importers: Take care to ensure that the products you import are compliant. Failure to do so may result in seizure of the goods and possibly prosecution.