What are the procedures for importing medicinal herbs for the first time? Released

The importation of plants used as herbal medicine or for consumption requires quarantine and approval procedures according to various laws. Below, we will guide you through the steps in detail.

1. Plant Quarantine:

First, check if the plant you intend to import is subject to quarantine under the **"Plant Protection Act"**, and if so, you must report the import to the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency and undergo inspection. (◎ Related Regulation Article 1)

You can inquire with the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (www.qia.go.kr, Plant Quarantine Division 054-912-0616) to receive guidance on the possibility of importation and detailed procedures.

Particularly, note that plants from import-prohibited regions cannot be imported. (◎ Related Regulation Article 1)

2. Check for CITES Regulation (if applicable):

You must also check if the plant you intend to import is a CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) regulated item under the **"Wildlife Protection and Management Act"**. (◎ Related Regulation Article 2)

You can verify this in the Ministry of Environment's "Integrated Announcement" Appendix 6, and if it is regulated, you must obtain separate approval from the Regional Environmental Office Director or Local Environmental Management Office Director.

3. Procedures for Medicinal Plants (if medicinal):

If importing for medicinal purposes, you must obtain the relevant documents such as an inspection certificate, sample collection certificate, or import approval from the Regional Food and Drug Safety Office or Korea Pharmaceutical Traders Association under the **"Pharmaceutical Affairs Act"**. (◎ Related Regulation Article 3)

Regional Food and Drug Safety Office (www.mfds.go.kr, 1577-1255)

Korea Pharmaceutical Traders Association (www.kpta.or.kr, 02-6000-1841)

The required documents may vary depending on the type of medicinal herb you intend to import, so it is accurate to inquire with the relevant institution.

4. Procedures for Edible Plants (if edible):

If importing for consumption, you must file an import declaration with the Regional Food and Drug Safety Office under the **"Special Act on Imported Food Safety Management"**. (◎ Related Regulation Article 4)

Direct inquiries with the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety are the most accurate for the possibility of importation or detailed procedures.

5. Import Declaration:

After completing all the above procedures, submit the import permit documentation issued by the relevant institutions to customs at the time of import declaration for customs clearance. (◎ Related Regulation Article 5)

Important) It is crucial to first inquire with the institutions mentioned above about the possibility of importation, required documents, and detailed procedures.

This is because the documents or procedures required by each institution may vary.

Additionally, having prior knowledge of the scientific name or exact variety name of the plant you intend to import will allow for more accurate guidance when inquiring.