DA issues new rules on diplomats’ imports

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Agriculture (DA) has issued new guidelines on the importation of agricultural and fisheries products by diplomatic missions based in the Philippines.

Several diplomatic missions based in the Philippines may bring in agricultural products into the country for their official use and for the provisions of their staff.

The DA said that while the Vienna Convention of Diplomatic Relations (VCDR) provides privileges and immunities to diplomatic missions, there are certain rules to be followed to ensure that the required sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures are met.

Administrative Circular 03 signed by Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala on July 2 stated that diplomatic missions importing farm products must apply for an SPS import clearance at the Intercommerce website (www.intercommerce.com.ph).

Diplomatic missions can only source farm and fisheries products from countries or establishments accredited by the Agriculture department.

The competent authority of origin of the products must issue an International Health Certificate for the shipment.

Upon arrival of the shipment at the port of entry, quarantine officers on duty will inspect the products in the presence of the consignees’ representative.

Payment of the inspection fee for the shipment would be waived pursuant to the VCDR.

Once the products are cleared by the quarantine officer, the shipment would be transferred to the designated cold storage facility or warehouse of the diplomatic mission.

Otherwise, the products would be confiscated and condemned. If not, these may be sent back to the country of origin or shipped to a third country.