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Import Clearance Procedure

Importing food into New Zealand – who to contact

Central Clearing House (CCH)

CCH is the part of the NZFSA that carries out the imports operational procedures. CCH provides the initial point of contact for information to importers and customs brokers throughout New Zealand. It facilitates the inspection and clearance of imported prescribed foods.

Importers, or their customs brokers, apply electronically for customs clearance. If the tariff code(s) entered is for food that is of interest to NZFSA, the importer will be referred to CCH to apply for a ‘NZFSA single use permit’. The application form should be submitted to CCH via email to ensure efficient service, but may be via fax.

NZFSA Single use permit application

If the food is not of interest to NZFSA, it will undergo the normal clearance process of Customs and Biosecurity without reference to NZFSA. However in some circumstances either of these agencies may involve NZFSA if they have a concern with the food item being imported.

We strongly recommend that importers view the NZFSA website or contact CCH, to find out if the product they wish to import is a food of interest to NZFSA before importing it.

Import requirements for specific foods

Contact Details:

Central Clearing House

NZFSA Verification Agency

Level 1, 96 New North Road, Eden Terrace, Auckland

PO Box 3540, Eden Terrace, Auckland

Email: imported.food@nzfsa.govt.nz

Fax: 09 909 6208

Phone: 09 909 6210 or 09 909 6211