Issuance of Plant and Plant Products Import Permit/Phytosanitary Certificate in Botswana: Eligibility, Requirements, and Application Process
Botswana’s Plant Protection Act CAP 35:02 requires that individuals and businesses importing or exporting plants and plant products acquire the necessary permits and certifications to ensure compliance with international and local phytosanitary standards. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to apply for a Plant Import Permit and a Phytosanitary Certificate, both of which are issued by the Division of Plant Protection. These documents regulate the movement of plant materials and help prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
The Plant and Plant Products Import Permit and Phytosanitary Certificate are available to:
Here’s how to apply for the Plant Import Permit or Phytosanitary Certificate in Botswana:
Step 1: Visit the Nearest District Crop Production Office
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Step 3: Pay the Prescribed Fees
The fees for the permits must be paid either physically at the District Crop Production Office or electronically. Payment details are as follows:
Bank Name: Bank of Botswana
Branch: Gaborone
Swift Code: BBOTBWGX
Account Name: Government of Botswana Remittance Account
Account Number: 0101000016620000 / 1000016620000
Reference: 0503-23429
If paying electronically, proof of payment is required before the permit or Phytosanitary Certificate is issued.
Here are the required documents based on the purpose (import, export, or transit):
The processing time for the Plant Import Permit and Phytosanitary Certificate can take up to 14 working days. It is recommended that applicants submit their forms 2 weeks in advance to allow sufficient time for processing.
The cost of applying for a Plant Import Permit and Phytosanitary Certificate is as follows:
Obtaining the Plant Import Permit and Phytosanitary Certificate ensures that you are legally allowed to import or export plants and plant products in Botswana while complying with international phytosanitary standards. These permits help protect Botswana's agricultural industry by preventing the spread of pests and diseases and ensure that plant products are safe for consumption and use.