SPS Module 2 Logo. SPS Module 2 Logo.
SPS Online.
Principles of the SPS Agreement.
APHIS and the General Approval Process.
Overview.
PPQ, VS and IS.
Other Agencies.
Plants and Plant Products.
Request to Export or Import.
Enterable Commodities.
Denial and Risk Assessment Determination.
Risk Assessment.
Entry with Inspection.
Mitigating Risk.
The Rulemaking Process.
Animals and Animal Products.
Regionalization.
Regionalization Request.
Regionalization Approval.
Risk Classification and Management.
Argentine Beef Example.
Conclusion.
Handouts.
Rulemaking Process.
Request Requirements.
Approval Process.

APHIS and the General Approval Process

Overview

A brief overview of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the United States Department of Agriculture will help to understand who is involved in the approval process for the importation of animals, plants, and animal and plant products. APHIS delivers diverse programs that protect the plant and animal resources of the United States and facilitate the marketability of United States Agricultural products.

APHIS is made up of nine program units:
  • Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ)
  • Veterinary Services (VS)
  • Wildlife Services (WS)
  • International Services (IS)
  • Animal Care (AC)
  • Policy and Program Development (PPD)
  • Legislative and Public Affairs (LPA)
  • Organizational and Professional Development (OPD)
  • APHIS Business Services (ABS)

    • The APHIS program units most involved in the process of issuing permits for commodities or for determining whether a commodity can be imported are PPQ on the plant side and VS on the animal side. PPD works with both units on longer term issues. IS personnel located in foreign countries works with their foreign counterparts including pre-clearance of some plant products.