Following enquiries from importers and exporters of agricultural produce, on the permissible conditions for the use of Solid Wood Packaging Materials (SWPM) such as pallets, crates, boxes, dunnages, etc, in
containerized cargoes imported into the country, the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) has issued a guideline due to the potential of the stated materials to serve as conveyors of pest and diseases pathogens into the country.
The agency said this in a statement signed by its head, media communication and strategies unit, Dr. Chigozie Nwodo, a copy of which was sent to Shipping Position Daily.
Nwodo however reiterated that the decision of the agency is due to the fact that SWPM has the potential of serving as a conveyor of pests and disease pathogens into Nigeria.
Explaining further, he said that IPPC marking must be according to the International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM).
"All treated SWPM imported into Nigeria must bear legible IPPC marking or logo stating the type of treatment administered. Already imported SWPM must be retreated if they are meant to be treated or recycled" he concluded.
Nwodo charged importers to abide by the rules for their cargos to be eligible for clearance
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