Changes

The department has reduced the maximum weight of fresh mustard stick and fresh betel leaves (Piper betel) allowed for inspection at airports, seaports and mail centres, from 2kg to 500grams.

From 01 August 2023, individuals importing mustard stick or betel leaves as passenger baggage (through airports and seaports) or as mail, which exceed 500grams (net weight), are responsible for organising inspection of goods at an approved arrangement facility (Class 2.4 Approved Arrangement or Class 20.0 department regional office) before they can be released. Alternatively, the options of export or disposal will be available for part of, or the whole commodity.

Mail consignments over 500g will be assessed and managed by a biosecurity officer on-arrival. Management measures include (but are not limited to) export or disposal at the importer’s expense.

The importer of the goods will also be responsible for paying the associated fees for this inspection.

Importers can use a customs broker to help with these steps.

This change DOES NOT apply to betel nut (fruit of the areca palm Areca catechu).

Who does this notice affect:
Importers of fresh mustard stick and fresh betel leaf (Piper betel), freight forwarders, brokers, biosecurity industry participants who hold an approved arrangement, Pathway Operations Travellers and Detector Dogs, and Pathway Operations Cargo – Assessment and Inspection.

Further information:
Please contact Plant Import Operations on 1800 900 090 or via email imports@aff.gov.au.