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Q1: Can export documents be copied or faxed?
A1: FSIS Form 9060-5 is a controlled document with serial numbers issued by FSIS. Therefore, it
should not be photocopied prior to completion for signature (unless marked as sample). However, it would be acceptable
to make copies of the signed document if more copies are needed. In general, copying non-controlled blank
export forms for documentation use is not recommended. Copying export forms may result in detained product if
foreign customs officials question the authenticity due to print quality. Exporters should advise FSIS plant
personnel well in advance of the ship date so that the proper forms can be ordered if not already on hand.
The FSIS Export Library should also be consulted as part of the planning for the export to see what forms are
needed.
Q2: Is it ever necessary to place the export stamp on a certificate or use an embossed seal?
A2: Stamping, or embossed seals, applied to the certificate is not permitted unless the Export
Library lists this as a country requirement.
Q3: Can products that have not been produced under FSIS inspection be listed on the export certificate?
A3: No, FSIS can only provide export certification for products produced under FSIS inspection.
Exporters should be referred to the government agency that regulates the product(s) they wish to export.
Q4: Is there a computer program to produce an export certificate?
A4: FSIS is currently exploring the possibility of electronic certification.
Q5: Can the Export Application (FSIS Form 9060-6) for export be set up as a word processing form with fields for quick entry?
A5: Yes, since this is an internal form, FSIS has no objection to a company streamlining the
entry of data on the form. The form must present the required information in a clear, efficient and legible
manner acceptable to FSIS officials receiving it.
Q6: Is there any time limit on the validity of an export certificate after issuance?
A6: There is no time limit on the validity of the FSIS 9060-5 once issued. However, all
certificates have an "edition date" and it is possible that any type of certificate could be
rejected if the "edition date" is obsolete.
Q7: What new information is to be added to an "in lieu of" certificate?
A7: Only the corrected information and the "in lieu of" statement required by FSIS
Directive 9000.1 in the "Remarks" statement can be added. Date of issue remains the same as the original.
Q8: Should a FSIS official ever sign any documentation prepared only in a foreign language?
A8: No, If any documentation is presented to an FSIS inspector for signature it must be in English or
have an English translation, and any statements required by the foreign inspection system are listed in the Export
Library.
Q9: If an exporter has a permit to import into a particular country, does it mean the FSIS
official can automatically issue export documentation based on the holding of a permit even
though the Export Library states the product is ineligible?
A9: No, the existence of a permit does not automatically authorize FSIS to issue a certificate,
however, permits may help clarify eligibility of products in certain cases. The FSIS Technical Service
Center should be contacted in such cases at (402) 221-7400 or 1-800-233-3935.
Q10: If it is known that a permit must be issued by the importing country before product will
be allowed entry into the country, does FSIS require evidence that a permit has been issued
before export documentation can be issued?
A10: No, FSIS does not require evidence of an import permit before a certificate is issued for
any country.
Q11: What should be done if requirements not present in the FSIS Export Library seem to be present on a permit or other documentation issued by the foreign government?
A11: The exporter should fax a copy of the permit/documentation to the FSIS Technical Service
Center, Fax number (402) 221-7479. The exporter should indicate the possible new requirement
and include their name and phone number. FSIS will evaluate these and, if necessary, confirm
the requirement with the foreign government. If confirmed, the FSIS Export Library will be
amended to include the new information.
Q12: Can export documentation be hand printed?
A12: No, export certificates should be typed.
Q13: Is FSIS involved with "Certificates of Free Sale?
A13: No, since FSIS issues FSIS Form 9060-5 that assures that the product is produced
according to U.S. laws and regulations, a certificate of free sale is not needed to accompany meat and
poultry exports. However, since the product bears the mark of inspection, other organizations or companies
may produce a document that states that the product to be exported is "Produced in accordance with the
laws of the United States, is fit for human consumption, and is sold freely in domestic commerce. Banks,
the local Chamber of Commerce, and other organizations may provide this kind of statement. FSIS personnel
should not sign "Certificates of Free Sale."
Q14: Is FSIS involved in the certification of animal byproducts such as hides,bloodmeal, tankage, etc.?
A14: No, certifying inedible animal byproducts is the responsibility of USDA, Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service (APHIS) - See Part 156 of the APHIS regulations.
Q15: Is FSIS involved in the licensing of exporters or brokers?
A15: No, if needed, it must be obtained from the Department of Commerce or, in some cases, the
Treasury Department depending on the country.
Q16: What is a "computer generated export stamp" and what are the requirements for its use?
A16: A "computer generated export stamp" is a label displaying the export stamp
features without the use of the FSIS rubber stamp. It may be printed on a label with other
required labeling features or separately. The establishment may implement this alternative
method of applying the export stamp under the following conditions.
The export stamp:
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must be equal in size and an exact impression of the FSIS rubber export stamp;
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must not be printed until authorized by the inspector and on the basis of an
assigned export certificate number;
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must be printed only in the quantity needed for the consignment and any excess
destroyed after application to the consignment;
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must be applied in such a manner that prevents the possibility of reuse;
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the company is responsible for assuring that product is stamped properly and the
stamped consignment must be available to the FSIS official for
inspection/re-inspection.
FSIS allows the continued use of this stamping procedure only if it remains acceptable to
the receiving country, continues to meet the above requirements and results in no increase
in stamping errors.
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Last Modified: October 25, 2006 |
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