Companies seeking to export forage should understand the requirements of each country they wish to sell to. Some of the common requirements are summarized here, but shippers should contact Export Certification Specialists in USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). APHIS maintains a database that lists all the current requirements for each export market, known as the Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance and Tracking (PCIT) system.

Note that APHIS has no jurisdiction over genetically modified products, which fall under the scope of USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS).

China. Companies wishing to export forage to China need to be registered with the Chinese government, a process that begins by contacting a local APHIS representative who will audit the processor. After passing that inspection, the name and other details of that facility are sent to China which periodically updates its list of approved shippers. There are a number of requirements for China which APHIS can explain, and include a ban on all genetically-engineered products. Currently, China accepts from the U.S. only compressed-bale alfalfa and timothy, as well as alfalfa pellets and cubes. Other forages are not allowed.

India. The Indian market theoretically opened for US alfalfa in 2020 but with the requirement that product be heat-treated, a process that both increases the cost and damages the fiber. Negotiations to remove this requirement continue. Also note that India does not allow genetically modified forage.

Japan. The Japanese government allows the import of all forages, even genetically-modified products, but note that individual importers may not purchase GE forage. Japan is strict about chemical residue, so shippers are strongly encouraged to consult with APHIS specialists to understand requirements and to communicate with growers. In recent years Japan has become sensitive to clopyralid, a herbicide that remains present in cattle manure, making compost dangerous to sensitive field crops. Although not yet regulated by the Japanese government, clopyralid is a chemical that exporters are urged to monitor and to ensure that growers are following label instructions.

Korea. Korea has been changing regulations regarding maximum residue limits (MRLs), creating some confusion; shippers should consult with APHIS to understand the latest revisions.

Middle East. Markets such as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are generally open but shippers should consult with APHIS for regulations specific to each country. Shippers should note that forage might be fed to goats, sheep and camel, whose sensitivity to some chemicals differ from cows. Communication as to the usage should be discussed with the importer.