Plant Protection Unit - FAQs
FAQs
Can I import fruits or vegetables into the Bahamas?
Fruits or vegetables can only be imported into the Bahamas if accompanied by a Valid Import Permit from BAHFSA and the necessary phytosanitary certification requested by the Authority. Additionally, the products may be subjected to Pest Risk Analysis, will need to be inspected by the Quarantine Inspectors at the designated Port of Entry to determine if the commodity complies with the Bahamas’ Sanitary or Phytosanitary requirements. Entry may be refused if the above conditions are not observed.
Can I bring fruits or vegetables in my bag or personal luggage?
Returning residents or visitors entering the Bahamas must declare all agricultural products (including fruits, vegetables, seeds, souvenirs, plants or plant parts, cut flowers, soil, sand, stones, coffee, teas etc.) on their Bahamas Customs forms. Agricultural inspectors will examine your items to be sure they meet entry requirements and do not harbor harmful foreign pests. They also have the authority to make a final determination about whether or not your products can enter the country. Please keep receipts and original packaging of agricultural products as proof of their country of origin.
What should I do if I want to import a product for the first time into the Bahamas?
If you are applying to import a product for the first time then a Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) will need to be conducted. For more information on PRA, please contact the Plant Protection Unit of BAHFSA at (242)604-7004; email: [email protected]; [email protected]
Where can I obtain an application form to import a plant or plant product?
You download the Application to Import Plants and Plant Products form on BAHFSA’s website (www.bahfsa.com).
How can I obtain a permit for the import of plants and plant products?
Applicant completes and submits the Application to Import Plants and Plant Products form on BAHFSA’s website (www.bahfsa.com). Applicant pays the relevant fee. After approval, the applicant will be issued with the import permit. Applicant submits import permit and phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country to an Agricultural Officer or Customs Officer at the port of entry. Please note an application for imports of plants, plant products and other regulated articles must be made prior to purchase. Applications are available on BAHFSA’s website (www.bahfsa.com) and are processed for a non-refundable fee of $10BSD (Individual) or $20BSD (Commercial).
How can I request an inspection for a plant establishment?
To request or to arrange for your inspection, please contact the Plant Protection Unit of BAHFSA at (242)604-7004; email: [email protected]; [email protected]
Is there a list of regulated pests for the Bahamas?
The list of regulated pests for the Bahamas can be found on BAHFSA’s website (www.bahfsa.com).
How can I report a pest of national interest?
To report a pest of national interest or a regulated pest, please contact the Plant Protection Unit of BAHFSA at (242)604-7004; email: [email protected]; [email protected]
Can I bring soil or organic fertilizers into the Bahamas?
An application must be made for soil importation. Please contact the Plant Protection Unit of BAHFSA at (242)604-7004; email: [email protected]; [email protected]
*Can I ship plants to plant products to other islands in the Bahamas? (in the future once regulations approved)
In order to move a plant, plant product or other regulated article between islands in the Bahamas, a citizen, permanent resident, or incorporated company will need to apply for a movement certificate granted by BAHFSA at least seven days prior to the intended date of movement. The certificate must be transmitted with the consignment or shipping documents.