On August 5th, the U.S. was added to the Chinese government’s list of Zika infected countries as a result of the localized outbreak in South Florida. The news of the inclusion of the U.S. on this list has been followed by a significant amount of confusion and vagueness concerning what the effects that this news would have on U.S. exporters. 

As a result of being included on this report, all ocean containers destined for China are subject to these requirements, regardless of where in the U.S. the cargo originates from.  At this time, while not all facts are clear, however we can confirm the following:

  • A Mosquito Eradication Certificate will be required for all containers. This certificate can be issued in the U.S. and must contain information regarding the how the containers were disinsected.
  • The certificate does not require an official government stamp.
  • Containers are not required to be fumigated in order to treat for mosquitoes but standard insect removal procedures should be followed.
  • Any containers arriving in China without this certificate will be held at the port for treatment. Fumigation in China typically costs around $30 for a 20’ to $60 for a 40’ container.  The fumigation process would likely delay the release of the container from 1-3 days.

August 19: UPDATE ON CHINA’S REQUIREMENTS FOR SHIPMENTS FROM ZIKA-INFECTED COUNTRIES

Shapiro is closely monitoring the news regarding these Zika regulations and we continue to push for more clarity regarding acceptable mosquito treatment procedures and the eradication certification.