USDA PUTS IMPORT APPLICATIONS ON THE INTERNET

USDA PUTS IMPORT APPLICATIONS ON THE INTERNET    The U.S. Department of Agriculture will launch a new Internet Web site Friday that will allow shippers to electronically submit their applications to import vegetables, fruits and animal products into the country.
   Shippers may access the Web site through the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s home page at http://www.aphis.usda.gov , and click onto “Import Authorization System.”
   “APHIS’ new Web site is designed to make the permit application process easier for our customers,” said Craig A. Reed, an administrator at APHIS. “If the site is as popular as we expect, it will be expanded to include additional permit applications.”
   Once the application is submitted, the Web site gives shippers a tracking number that can be used to check the status of their permit request. Since importers can’t sign their online applications before they submit them, however, shippers must sign them after they’re issued.
   Shippers may also use the Web site to renew or amend existing import applications.
   In addition, the online import application Web site lists guidelines and user fees needed to apply for APHIS permits and includes an index of vegetables, fruits and animal products that can be imported.