APHIS Ensures Access to Fumigations Despite Port of Newark Provider Closure

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) would like to notify stakeholders of the recent closure of Vanguard Fumigation at Port Newark, NJ (Port Code 4601). We recognize the critical role Port Newark plays as a gateway for perishable goods and the importance of maintaining effective phytosanitary measures. 

We acknowledge the potential challenges posed by the lack of onsite fumigation, including delays and risks to perishable shipments. APHIS has established procedures, which included bonded movements, to authorize condition of entry commodities to move to an approved facility while ensuring compliance with phytosanitary requirements to protect U.S. agriculture. 

Importers play a significant role in ensuring safe and efficient movement of commodities. Reviewing the import requirements in the Agricultural Commodity Import Requirements system and in your import permit(s) will help reduce the risk of pests and facilitate movement of your agricultural commodity imports. 

APHIS is ready to work with industry if a new fumigation provider is willing to offer their services. We are here to support and assist you through this transition, and we highly value your input and collaboration in finding solutions that protect plant health and support the U.S. food supply. For specific inquiries or to provide additional data on cargo volumes, please contact our Plant Health office at aphis.planthealth@usda.gov or call 844-820-2234 (Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET).