Reply

In the case of import of potato seeds and rice seeds, the requirements are laid down in paragraph 26(30) and 26(31) of the Import Policy Order. The importer will be required to submit, along with other import documents, a quarantine certificate issued by the original supplier and a phytosanitary certificate from the relevant government authority in the exporting country. 

Again, in the case of potato seeds, a quarantine certificate will have to be obtained from the Plant Quarantine Department before clearing the imported potato seeds from the Customs Authority. In the case of import of hybrid rice seeds, the phytosanitary certificate must mention that the seed is purified with hot water treatment and with approved pesticides. 

In both cases (potato seeds and rice seeds), an import permit issued by the Plant Quarantine Department must be submitted at the time of opening the L/C.

Note: For more details on these issues, please consult Import Policy Order, 2015-2018 or contact the Plant Quarantine Department under Ministry of Agriculture.