Customs has ruled that the tariff 3924.10.09.19D must be used for salt and pepper grinders.
Using this tariff code will bypass MPI’s Biosecurity (BIO) and Food Imports (FOODS) team screening. However, peppercorns must be checked for biosecurity pests and diseases and food safety need to check for salmonella.
What you need to do
- Complete your customs entry as normal, using the tariff 3924.10.09.19D.
- Complete a Manual Biosecurity Referral (MBR). If you are unsure what an MBR is, please contact your software provider. An MBR will send the entry directly to the BIO pathway within MPI.
- E-mail all documents through to the FOODS team on imported.food@mpi.govt.nz
- Wait for direction from both BIO and FOODS.
The specific tariff code is required because the grinders are reusable, and NZCS need to classify the goods as a grinder set rather than based on the contents inside it.
Relevant MPI specifications:
Biosecurity requirements: Import Health Standard (SPP.HUMAN.IHS)
Food safety requirements: Food Notice: Importing Food
Note : Under section 16B of the Biosecurity Act 1993, an importer must take all reasonable steps to ensure that the
goods comply with the applicable Import Health Standard. Under section 110 of the Food Act 2014, it is the duty of the importer to ensure that they import only food that meets all applicable requirements of the Food Act 2014. Additionally, under section 129 of the Food regulations 2015, a food that fits within the category of High Regulatory Interest Food requires clearance for entry.