Changes

The department has made changes to the import conditions for unretorted (fresh/frozen/chilled) beef from Japan.

• Import conditions no longer require consignments to undergo mandatory inspection on arrival.
• This change only applies to permits issued after 6 December 2022.

Permits issued before 6 December 2022:
For import permits issued before 6 December 2022, an inspection will still be a condition of import. Importers can apply to vary their current permit to amend them to the new conditions or apply for a new permit. Note: As varied permits retain the original expiry date and attract the same application and assessment fees as a new permit application, importers may prefer to apply for a new permit.

It is expected that this change will reduce the resources the department deploys on inspections of unretorted beef from Japan and will reduce cost and waiting times for importers.

Who does this notice affect:
Importers of unretorted beef from Japan, Client Contact Group Canberra and Pathway Operations Cargo – Assessment and Inspections.

Further information:
If you require any further information, or have questions about these changes, please contact the Food Biosecurity Imports Section on 1800 900 090 (prompt 1, then prompt 1) or email imports@agriculture.gov.au.