As of 1st December 2003 the Organic Products (Imports from Third Countries) Regulations 2003 came into force. All consignments of organic origin must be pre-notified to Southampton Port Health Authority 24 hours prior to the arrival of the vessel or 6 hours by air.
A certificate of inspection issued by an approved organisation must accompany each consignment of organic produce. Original Certificates relating to the consignment must then be presented to this office for endorsement and accompanied with a payment of £45. If it is by cheque, it must be payable to Southampton City Council.
If the certification is satisfactory, the certificate will be signed by a Port Health Officer and either released or examined. After all checks have been completed the certificate will be returned to the importer/agent.
Southampton City Council
