As international summer travel approaches, including the FIFA World Cup, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has teamed up with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to remind travelers of the importance of adhering to customs laws when transporting agricultural items. This initiative aims to prevent invasive pests and diseases from entering the United States.
"USDA and CBP know that agriculture items shipped in express courier packages can be a dangerous pathway for invasive pests and diseases to enter our country," stated Diane Sabatino, CBP Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner. She emphasized that public cooperation is crucial in protecting healthy animals, plants, food supplies, and forests by using a checklist before shipping or receiving goods through express couriers.
Agricultural products at risk include fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, dried and processed products, wood carvings, handicrafts, live insects, soil, pet foods and treats, as well as some snack foods. These items may harbor invasive species harmful to U.S. agriculture. To assist travelers and shippers in ensuring these items are safe for entry into the country, USDA and CBP have developed a checklist available on USDA’s contact page for those utilizing express courier services.
Dr. Mark Davidson from USDA's Plant Protection and Quarantine division warned about potential threats: "You should know what could be hitchhiking in or on those items—invasive plant and animal diseases and pests." He cautioned that unchecked threats could harm crops, livestock, ecosystems and lead to significant economic losses.
Travelers carrying agricultural or biological products might need to notify authorities in advance for an agriculture inspection. Detailed information regarding required documentation, border wait times, arrival procedures can be accessed via the Know Before You Go section on the CBP website.
CBP is recognized as America's frontline law enforcement organization tasked with safeguarding national security across land borders as well as airspace and maritime boundaries. The agency's workforce exceeds 65,000 individuals dedicated to facilitating lawful travel while promoting economic prosperity through innovation and collaboration.
For further engagement with local communities or updates from regional offices viewable lists of social media accounts are accessible online.
