August 19, 2016

On August 19, a call was held by USDA in order to share additional information on the Zika measure in China.

Below are the relevant documents that were reviewed during the call:

1. An update on China's Zika measure.
2. An unofficial English translation of the Zika measure.
3. China's template for the Zika certificate.

During the call it was confirmed that each individual CIQ port is implementing the Zika measure differently. USDEC is working to clarify the requirements.  Click here to access the Q&A from the  call.

The Chinese disinsection requirements include: 

• All shipments originating from the United States (air and sea vessels) are required to provide some proof of disinsection at the Chinese port. 
  Disinsection can be carried out by physical or chemical means. For physical, this could include trapping, air curtains, or other integrated pest management techniques. For chemical, this could include surface spraying, space spraying, or fumigation. The shipper shall select the method, applied taking into account human health and safety.
• Shipments chilled below 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) will not require a disinsection certificate unless live mosquitoes, larva, or eggs are discovered during CIQ inspection. Detection will require disinsection.
• The disinsection requirement applies to containers and vessels, not the products being shipped. Vessels providing certification proof of being free of mosquitoes will not require additional inspection.
• Proof of disinsection does not need to be provided by a government body or a government approved body.

USDEC will continue to actively monitor and advise members through the "Hot Topics" section of usdec.org and through emailed member alerts, if warranted. For additional information contact USDEC's Matt McKnight or Jonathan Gardner at 703-528-3049.