Australia Shipping - Import Regulations

Import Regulations - Spain

Spain is Australia's 26th largest merchandise trading partner. In 2008 Australian merchandise exports to Spain were about $A900 million and were dominated by exports of coal and ores. Current export successes include Australian wine, crustaceans, iron ore, outdoor furniture and sophisticated internet technology.

Spain is part of the harmonized trade system of the EU. Most duties are ad valorem (per cent), based on the GATT Valuation Code. Common Customs Tariff (CCT) and Common External Tariff (CET) are applicable to Australia.

Product certification and labeling
Live animals, meat, live plants or their parts require health certificates issued by the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS), the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry-Australia or the relevant state department of agriculture and visited by the Spanish Consul before shipment.

Live poultry and eggs for hatching may only be imported if a comprehensive health certificate from the official veterinary authority in Australia is provided and a detailed document about the form in which their export is intended is submitted.

Imports which do not comply with Spanish marking and labeling regulations are forbidden. In view of changes in the marketing, labeling and testing requirements in Spain, Australian exporters should request instructions from their importers prior to finalizing any commercial transaction.

Labels on foodstuffs must indicate the following information in Spanish:
• a description of the contents and a list of principal ingredients, including additives and colorants;
• the country of origin;
• the name of the brand of the producer and the commercial name of the product;
• the net weight or volume in metric units;
• the date of manufacture or freezing (month and year);
• instructions for preparation (where applicable) and any special storage instructions.

Documentary requirements
1 original invoice and 1 copy is requested. The document must show class of goods, the unit price, the quantity, gross and net weights in kilograms and all additional charges up to CIF value.
1 copy of pro-forma invoice is usually sufficient. It must indicate freight, insurance charges and FOB foreign part value.

Packing list is not compulsory but it facilitates clearance.

Certificates of origin are required for specific goods. It is recommended to send 3 copies with the goods.
There is no prescribed form to bill ob lading.