Ripe for the Road: Secrets to Successful Fruit Imports in the USA

The desire for fresh and exotic fruits in the USA continues to grow. From apples and oranges to mangoes, coconuts and avocados, American consumers expect access to high-quality, convenient and tasty fruits year-round.

This demand for vibrant flavours and refreshing variety is mirrored by the expanding growth of the fruit shipping industry in the USA. With the market expected to grow annually by 3.75% between 2024-2029, the opportunities for fruit and vegetable importers are endless.

Efficient shipping solutions are essential, as well as a comprehensive understanding of the regulations and challenges involved with transporting these sensitive goods. Meticulously planned and precisely executed solutions will enable you to seize the opportunities this market presents, plant seeds of success and reap the profitable fruits of your labour.

Phytosanitary treatments and certificates

Before a phytosanitary certificate can be issued, phytosanitary treatments may be required to ensure your goods meet USA standards. These treatments may involve chemical or nonchemical methods, such as fumigation, cold treatment, steam sterilization and irradiation. The choice of treatment depends on the commodity, packaging, port of entry and country of origin. Treatments must be conducted in APHIS-certified facilities.

After this, a phytosanitary certificate can be awarded by the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) of an exporting country. This certifies that your fruit cargo has been inspected, is free from pests and diseases and meets the phytosanitary requirements of the USA.

Port of entry inspections

Port of entry inspections ensure your goods comply with US regulatory requirements. Inspectors may visually examine your goods, take laboratory samples and review your documentation at this checkpoint.

Controlled Import Permit (CIP)

Some plants are prohibited from being imported into the USA due to potentially hosting pests which could be dangerous. However, in instances where these plants need to be imported, for example for scientific purposes, a Controlled Import Permit (CIP) must be issued.

CIP’s help ensure high-risk commodities are stringently regulated. You can find out what items this includes by checking the Plants for Planting Manual.

Commodity import request

If your commodity isn’t authorized for import, you can make a commodity import request. To do this, you should check the Plant Health Commodity Trade Manuals and Agricultural Commodity Import Requirements (ACIR) to ensure your product isn’t already undergoing a pest risk analysis. So long as this isn’t the case, you can reach out to your NPPO to submit the necessary information to initiate a pest risk analysis and request approval for imports.

Fruits that can be imported to the USA

Currently, the fruits that can be imported to the USA include everything from apples to grapes, kiwis, and pineapples. Established shipping companies will have extensive expertise to help you navigate international trade regulations with confidence. They will be able to support you through hassle-free documentation preparation for seamless shipments.

The size of the USA can add another layer of complexity. Distributing fruit across such a vast country requires an efficient and well-coordinated transportation network to ensure the timely delivery of goods and maintain their freshness.