Each country has its own regulations applicable to the products sold in its territory, so it is important that, when defining the market or markets to which you want to export your products, you find out about these regulations.
In addition, there are international standards, for example, the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreement defines that any restriction imposed on trade must always have scientific measures. For example, if a state intends to establish rules on product labeling, hygiene or sanitary procedures, it should be guided by international standards so as not to be denounced to the WTO as protectionist measures.
In 1962, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization created the Codex Alimentarius Commission for a group of experts to draw up standards for food products. Today Codex is "the most important reference point for developments associated with food standards".
Its standards are compendiums of regulations published by the commission, which establish guidelines for certain food groups (fish and fishery products, fresh fruits and vegetables, milk and dairy products, etc.). The following categories of information are included for each product:
The scope of application, i.e. the name of the food to which it applies. For example, mozzarella cheese, legumes or milk powders.
The description, which, according to the Codex Commission, "includes a definition of the product or products covered and an indication, where appropriate, of the raw materials from which they are derived. For example, it explains the consistency of the different types of cheese, their color and whether or not they have a rind. Thus, a rindless cheese cannot be labeled as Brie, or an orange cheese as mozzarella.
The essential composition factors, which "include information on the composition and identity characteristics of the product, as well as mandatory and optional ingredients". Again, a cheese made from goat's milk will not be able to be called "mozzarella".
Food additives, which "list the names of additives and the maximum amount that may be added to the food". Codex thus ensures that additives do not change the substance of the product and do not harm human health.
The possible contaminants and the limits for their presence in the product.
The code of hygienic practices relevant to the product.
The usual weights and measures of the product.
Labeling, which "includes provisions on the name of the food and any special requirements to ensure that the consumer is not misled or deceived as to the nature of the food".
Methods of analysis and sampling, which includes a list of test methods necessary to ensure that the product meets the requirements of the standard. Reference is made to internationally recognized test methods that meet the Commission's criteria for accuracy, precision, etc.".
The export of plant products is subject to the regulations established by the importing countries, because the product, depending on its degree of processing (fresh, dehydrated, sterilized, etc.) may be a pathway for the spread of pests present in the territory of origin, but not found in the territory of another importing country.
Pests are considered to be any living organism that is harmful to plants, such as insects, mites, weeds, fungi, bacteria, viruses or others.
If the plant product meets the phytosanitary requirements of the importing country, there is a guarantee that, from the point of view of plant health, the exported consignment will have no problems entering that country. He considers that countries sign protocols that allow them to control possible effects.
Once you are clear about the requirements and protocols that the product you want to start exporting must comply with, consider the tariff it should have in the destination country. The tariff depends on the destination of the merchandise and whether it is general or preferential: If the destination country does not have a preferential agreement with your country, you pay the general tariff; if the destination country has an agreement and the merchandise complies with the origin regime, you pay the preferential tariff.
Keep in mind that your products may not be well received in the country to which you would like to export, so it is essential that you study the different markets and their consumption behavior:
If you are clear on the considerations related to your product and export destination, you are close to becoming a new exporter.
At Loads we are available to help you in this process and take your products to other corners of the world in a transparent, efficient and accessible way.