Fresh Fruit Export Customs Clearance

In 2022, fresh fruit and vegetable exports generated more than US$3.1 billion for Vietnam. As the market developed, the source projected that 2023 exports could reach US$4 billion. For businesses seeking an efficient, secure export process, fresh fruit export customs clearance services offer practical support. In this article, Nguyen Logistics introduces the customs procedures involved in exporting fresh fruit.

What should exporters prepare before starting fresh fruit customs procedures?

Fresh fruit can be exported from Vietnam. To prepare for clearance, exporters need to identify the product’s HS code and check the import requirements in the buyer’s destination market.

Determine the HS code for the fruit being exported

HS classification is one of the first steps in export preparation, and fresh fruit is no exception. Different fruits have different HS codes. Consult the Harmonized System and the product description to determine the correct classification.

Check whether the destination country allows imports of the fruit

The source guidance describes fresh fruit as outside Vietnam’s prohibited or restricted export lists, with exports permitted upon completion of the required customs procedures. Destination countries, however, impose their own conditions on imported fruit. Before arranging a shipment, check:

• Which fruits the destination market permits to be imported from Vietnam.
• The product-specific certificates required by the relevant plant protection and food safety authorities.

Export customs procedures at international ports

Fresh fruit exporters need the usual export documents, such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and international sales contract. They must also address the following product-specific requirements.

Prepare phytosanitary documentation

Fresh fruit export shipments require plant quarantine registration. The source cites Article 1 of Circular 30/2014/TT-BNNPTNT, dated September 5, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. Before export, register the shipment with the designated competent authority or organization, then add the phytosanitary documentation to the customs file.

Apply shipping marks

Shipping marks identify cargo using words, numbers, or symbols printed or affixed to shipping packages. Fresh fruit exporters should mark every package to help customs and transport operations run smoothly.

Shipping marks help prevent cargo mix-ups during export and clearance. The source refers to the labeling provisions of Government Decree 43/2017/ND-CP, dated April 14, 2017, and lists the following information for fresh fruit export packages:

• Product name in English.
• Exporter’s or manufacturer’s name.
• Made in Viet Nam. The source highlights this origin marking as particularly important and notes that customs may stop a shipment for inspection if it is missing.
• Package number within the total number of packages in the shipment.
• Additional information, such as the commercial invoice number.

Arrange a certificate of Vietnamese origin

A certificate of origin is not described as a prerequisite for Vietnamese export clearance in the source. Buyers may nevertheless require one, and the appropriate certificate form depends on the destination country or market.

Why use a fresh fruit export customs service?

Clearing a fresh fruit export shipment involves several steps:

• Prepare the required documents.
• Submit the electronic customs declaration and shipment documentation.
• Review the assigned risk channel. If the shipment is assigned yellow or red, provide the necessary amendments or additional documentation.
• Complete the requirements for customs release so that the shipment can proceed.

Without a clear understanding of customs procedures, quality certificates, and origin documentation, these steps can consume considerable time and effort. A professional fresh fruit export customs provider can help coordinate them effectively.

Nguyen Logistics: fresh fruit export customs support

At Nguyen Logistics, service quality is central to how we work. With Nguyen Logistics’ customs services, fresh fruit exporters receive advice and practical assistance to complete clearance efficiently:

Support with export documents, including the international sales contract, commercial invoice, the destination-specific C/O form, shipping marks, and phytosanitary documentation.

Preparation of declarations and follow-through on customs procedures until the cargo is released.

Comprehensive customs declaration services at the international ports required by the customer.

Ocean and air freight arrangements for fresh fruit exports.

Support in selecting containers suited to transporting fresh fruit.

This article provides a basic overview of fresh fruit customs services. For more detailed advice on the procedures for your export shipment, contact Nguyen Logistics on 0948031764.