Issue 254, May 12, 2000
Please Pardon our Dust!

Have you ever walked into a newly renovated department store where a sign that says "Please Pardon Our Dust" is on a tripod just inside the door? With that sign, they wanted to let their valued customers know that despite a little dust due to the renovation, they were still welcome to step inside and shop, because customer service and satisfaction were a priority. And just like that store, we don't mind if you see our dust either, because we are committed to continuing the dedicated service that you require and expect.

As you know, AEI was purchased by Deutsche Post late last year and now, we are being merged with Danzas Corporation. The integration is currently in full swing and, undoubtedly, you will soon see some changes in our corporate identity. Officially, our name is now "Danzas AEI", as has been reflected in our masthead above (as you'll recall, our newsletter was formerly called "The AEI Resource".) You may even see more changes to the format of this newsletter and other correspondence from us, but that really doesn't matter -- what truly matters is that we continue to provide you with the highest quality customer service, as well as the most up-to-date trade information. Take a look at the article below from the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association. For those of you shipping to Brazil, you should like what you read.

However, before your attention is diverted, please note that we will soon be providing you such important and timely information via email. Are you interested in being placed on our email distribution list? If so, please provide your email address below:

Phytosanitary Update: Brazil

The Brazilians have removed the U.S. from the requirements for a phytosanitary certificate for Solid Wood Packing Material (SWPM) due to the Asian Longhorned Beetle. This was accomplished through the combined efforts of USDA-APHIS and the U.S. Ambassador to Brazil, with support from the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association and the American Forest and Paper Association.

The modification is contained in Inter-Ministerial # 146 dated April 12, 2000. This modification was published in that day's Diario Oficial and took effect immediately. The Min. Agr. and Customs has notified port, airport, and border station inspectors of the new provision relevant to U.S. origin wood packing materials.

The regulation includes a stipulation that should the Chinese or Asian Longhorn Beetle (ALB) (= Anoplophora glabripennis) be introduced and established in the U.S. (other than New York and Illinois which are under official control) or should the detection in Brazil of the pest in material from the United States occur, then these events would reestablish the requirement of a Phytosanitary Certificate to accompany packing, wrapping, and support material of solid wood from the U.S.

The validity of the removal of the U.S. from the list of countries to provide certificates is contingent on periodic inspection by APHIS, and upon corresponding procedures to reduce the phytosanitary risk from solid wood packing and supports. Note that Solid Wood Packing Material (SWPM) must continue to be bark free, and apparently free of live pests.

Source - The National Wooden Pallet & Container Association

Please note that due to the complex nature of the subject matter, AEI cannot be responsible for actions taken by the reader in reliance on the information contained herein without prior consultation with AEI.