There has been great focus by the US to prevent imported wood products from China that often contain the destructive Asian Longhorn Beetle, from entering the country. The Asian Longhorn Beetle infestations have resulted in thousands of trees being incinerated in Chicago and New York City. In addition to the US, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and Australia have also established import restrictions on some wood products. Now with similar concerns, the Chinese government claims that shipments from the US and Japan containing solid wood packing, has been found to carry Pinewood Nematode causing Pine Wilt disease. Therefore, effective 01 January 2000, all coniferous solid wood packing material will have to be heat treated for a minimum of 30 minutes with a core temperature reaching at least 56 C (133 F). Shipments entering China will have to bear the newly required Certificate of Heat Treatment. Non-compliant shipments will be destroyed or returned to the site of origin. For additional information, visit the USDA-APHIL website at: www.aphis.usda.gov/travel/aqi.
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