Issuance of plant, plant products import permit/phytosanitary certificate

Overview

This service allows/enables Importers and Exporters to import/export plant and plant products. The permit is administered through Plant Protection Act CAP35:02. To import/export plants, plant products you must apply for an import permit and a Phytosanitary certificate respectively issued by the Division of Plant Protection. For one to be issued a Phytosanitary certificate s/he must meet the import conditions of the importing country. The import permit is valid for 6 months and can be used for multiple entry. The Phytosanitary certificate is valid for 2 weeks and used for single entry only.

Who is eligible?

Individuals (citizens and non-citizens)
Registered company with Registrar of Companies for a Trading License
Registered business (Companies/Hawkers/Vendors)

How do I get this service?

Interested citizens and businesses are required to visit the nearest District Crop Production Office with relevant supporting documents.
Complete an application form to import the plant and plant products.
Forms can be completed and send via email to MoAPlantPermits [at] gov.bw.
Pay the prescribed fee physically or at the District Crop Production Office or electronically at the following banking details:

Bank name:	Bank of Botswana
Branch:	Gaborone
Swift code:	B BOT BW GX
Account name:	Government of Botswana Remittance Account
Account number:	0101000016620000/1000016620000
Reference:	0503-23429

If paying electronically proof of payment is required before a permit or Phytosanitary certificate are issued.
For IMPORT of plant or plant product, provide the following details:
- Name and address of importer (Physical or postal)
- Name and address of exporter (Physical or postal
- Quantities and type of plants or plant products to be imported
- Port of entry
- Mode of transport
The plant or plant products to be imported shall be inspected to ensure that they meet the import conditions.

What supporting documents are required?

For IMPORT of plant or plant product

Proof of payment
Completed Application form

For EXPORT of plant or plant product

Provide import permit from importing country
Apply for phytosanitary certificate
The plant or plant products to be exported shall be inspected to ensure that they meet the import conditions of the importing country
Proof of payment
Completed Application form

For plant and plant products on TRANSIT provide:

Permit from importing country
Phytosanitary certificate from exporting country if required by the importing country
Proof of payment
Completed Application form

How long will this service take?

Up to 14 working days. However clients advised to apply 2 weeks in advance