How are SPS border controls carried out?

There are three stages in (phyto)sanitary checks:

• Document checks, performed in all cases on all types of goods.
  The aim is to verify the information contained in the health certificate and pre-notification and, where applicable, in any other document required for importation of the goods.
• Identity checks, these apply in all cases to live animals and are based on random samples of other goods. They require the goods to be presented at the border post.
  The aim is to verify that the information contained in the documentation matches completely the goods presented for controls.
• Physical controls, these apply in all cases to live animals and are based on random samples of other goods. They require the goods to be presented at the border post.
  The aim is to carry out an in-depth examination of the goods and this may include the taking of samples for official testing.

On completion of the checks, if the goods are compliant, SIVEP’s inspection staff will issue a Common Health Entry Document (CHED) for presentation to customs for the purposes of the customs formalities.
The customs authorities levy a fee for sanitary and phytosanitary import controls in accordance with official orders of 25 June 2012 as amended, laying down the tariffs for this sanitary and phytosanitary import control fee.