Commodity

In Namibia, importing plant material, pests, soil, or other specified items requires a permit and must be done through designated entry points with proper documentation. Failure to follow these rules can result in a fine of up to N$20,000 or imprisonment for up to 2 years.

To export regulated materials from Namibia, you must apply for a phytosanitary certificate from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Forestry using Form AP 4 and pay the required fee. The materials will be inspected by a plant quarantine officer, and if found free of pests or disease, a phytosanitary certificate will be issued.

When importing regulated articles, you must present them for inspection by a plant quarantine officer as soon as possible after arrival or at a directed time and place. You cannot move the article until the officer gives written consent, and failure to comply can result in a fine up to N$20,000 or imprisonment for up to 2 years.

The Minister reviews applications for import permits under regulation 2 and may either grant or reject them, issuing the permit in Form AP 2 if approved. The permit is valid for the period specified on it, after which a new permit must be applied for if the holder wishes to continue importing.

To sell, keep for sale, offer to sell, barter, import, export, or otherwise supply seeds in Namibia, a person must be registered as a seed dealer. Registration requires an application to the Registrar, along with the prescribed fee, and is granted based on the applicant meeting requirements related to infrastructure, equipment, technical ability, and knowledge.

Once registered, dealers must provide the Registrar with information about seed stocks, lots, expiry dates, and related details. The Registrar has the authority to suspend or cancel a dealer's registration if it was obtained through misrepresentation or if the dealer violates the Act's provisions.

Failure to comply with these regulations, including operating without registration or not providing required information, is an offence punishable by a fine up to N$10,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both.

Inspections must occur between 08:00 and 17:00, Monday to Friday, and any inspection outside these hours requires a payment, while a clearance certificate will be issued upon payment of the specified fee.

Importation of regulated material under section 4(2)(a) of the Act is restricted to specific ports and airports. These include major airports like Hosea Kutako International Airport, Eros Airport, and Mpacha Airport; seaports like Walvis Bay and Lüderitz; and various border posts, rail stations, and post offices across the country, such as Oshikango, Oranjemund, and Windhoek Railway Station.