Wholesalers and retailers who plan on importing Christmas Trees for the upcoming holiday season are hereby
advised to request their permit early and to also make sure that the trees have been treated in the exporting country.
There are ordinances that regulate the importation of goods, and a permit will be required in order to import Christmas Trees for the 2013 holiday season.
The Inspection Department TEZVT – Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) that falls under the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications, has to ensure that imported Christmas Trees – even though they may appear to be harmless, are free from insects and pests that could harm trees and vegetation on the island.
Wholesalers and retailers for each consignment should have a phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country showing that the trees have been treated before they leave the exporting country.
To secure the permit, companies are required to submit an application for import along with a copy of the original pro forma invoice. When the trees arrive, the wholesaler/retailer should notify the Department; and should present the original phytosanitary certificate and proof that the trees were treated with pesticide.
The Inspection Department of TEZVT- Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) office is located in Tamarinde Steeg nr. 16 C, Philipsburg, in the Yellow Building. The office can be reached by calling 542-4509 or 542-4511 for further information.