Importing Maple Syrup: Documentation Requirements by Region

Buying Guides

8 min read

December 20, 2023

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Overview: Importing Maple Syrup

• Importing Canadian maple syrup involves navigating documentation requirements that vary by destination country. As a Canadian exporter, we provide all export-side documentation — but buyers must understand their import-side obligations.
• The HS Code for maple syrup is 1702.20. This code applies to most international trade classifications and determines applicable duties and inspection requirements.

European Union

• The EU requires standard commercial documentation plus potential additional requirements depending on the member state.

• Commercial invoice and packing list (provided by us)
• Bill of lading or airway bill (provided by us)
• Certificate of origin (provided by us)
• Health/phytosanitary certificate if required by destination country
• Organic certificate for organic-certified shipments
• EU customs declaration (buyer responsibility)
• Import license may be required in some member states
• VAT and applicable duties at point of entry

Asia (Japan, South Korea, China, Southeast Asia)

• Asian markets have varying import requirements. Japan and South Korea have well-established maple syrup import channels.

• Standard commercial documentation (provided by us)
• Certificate of Analysis (COA) — particularly important for Asian markets
• Japanese Agricultural Standard (JAS) organic certificate for organic shipments to Japan
• Quarantine inspection may apply in some countries
• Import food registration required in China
• Labeling requirements vary significantly by country

Middle East

• Middle Eastern markets may require additional certifications related to religious dietary standards.

• Standard commercial documentation (provided by us)
• Halal certificate if required by destination
• Kosher certificate if required by buyer
• Conformity certificate (some Gulf states require SASO, ESMA, or equivalent)
• Arabic-language labeling may be required for retail products

Documentation requirements change periodically. Always verify current requirements with your customs broker before placing an order.

General Documentation We Provide

• Commercial invoice with full product specifications
• Packing list detailing drums, pallets, weights, lot numbers
• Bill of lading (ocean or inland freight)
• Certificate of origin (Canadian)
• Certificate of Analysis (per lot)
• Organic certificate (when applicable)
• Phytosanitary certificate (when required)

Buyer Responsibilities

• Import customs clearance in destination country
• Import duties and taxes (vary by country and HS code classification)
• Inland transport from port to final destination
• Import food registration (where applicable)
• Local labeling compliance (for retail redistribution)

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