How to Import Freeze-Dried Pork from Thailand: Requirements, Animal Quarantine, and Customs Clearance Timeline

For Oversea Exporters to Japan
2026.01.14

Introduction

“Why is animal quarantine still required in Japan even though we have an official government certificate?”
“Will animal quarantine delay customs clearance for several days?”

These are very common concerns among importers when bringing processed pork products into Japan from overseas, especially from countries such as Thailand.

In practice, misunderstandings such as the following often cause delays:

  • Assuming freeze-dried products can be cleared easily without strict checks
  • Believing that an EPA Certificate of Origin (COO) alone is sufficient
  • Waiting until after arrival to submit quarantine and food safety documents

Such misconceptions can lead to customs delays, higher bonded warehouse charges, or even re-export or disposal.

This article provides a practical and neutral explanation for importers at a beginner to intermediate level, focusing on:

  • Required documents for importing freeze-dried pork from Thailand
  • The role of the DLD certificate and Japanese animal quarantine
  • Realistic timelines from arrival to customs clearance
  • Key compliance points from an operational perspective

The explanation is based on a typical case of HS Code 1602.49 (prepared or preserved pork).

Assumed Import Scenario

  • Product: Freeze-dried pork chips
  • Intended use: Human food
  • Country of origin: Thailand
  • HS Code: 1602.49
  • Trade framework: Japan–Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA)

Note: Requirements may differ depending on product specifications or end use (e.g. pet food).

Required Documents for Importing Freeze-Dried Pork from Thailand

Core Documents for Customs Clearance

DocumentPurpose
Commercial InvoiceValue and product description
Packing ListQuantity and weight
Bill of Lading / Air WaybillProof of transport (FOB / CIF basis)
DLD CertificateAnimal quarantine
Food Import NotificationFood safety compliance
Certificate of Origin (JTEPA COO)Preferential duty (if applicable)

Learn more about Certificates of Origin and how they work in import procedures in our detailed guide [Certificates of Origin for Food Imports: Complete Guide for Importers].

What Is the DLD Certificate?

The DLD Certificate is a Veterinary Health Certificate issued by the Department of Livestock Development (DLD) of Thailand.

It certifies, among other things, that:

  • The product is derived from pork
  • The raw materials originate from livestock managed under disease control programs
  • The manufacturing facility is approved for export to Japan
  • The heat treatment process (temperature and duration) is clearly specified

The DLD Certificate is not an exemption from Japanese quarantine.
Rather, it is a mandatory prerequisite for Japanese animal quarantine review.

Is Japanese Animal Quarantine Still Required If You Have a DLD Certificate?

Conclusion: Yes, Animal Quarantine in Japan Is Mandatory

In Japan, pork and pork products are designated as controlled items under animal health regulations aimed at preventing livestock diseases.

Therefore, imports are subject to a two-step verification process:

  1. Certification by the exporting country authority (Thailand DLD)
  2. Animal quarantine inspection upon arrival in Japan, conducted by Japan’s Animal Quarantine Service (AQS)

Having a DLD Certificate allows the Japanese inspection to be conducted primarily as a documentary review, but it does not eliminate the requirement.

Differences Between Animal Quarantine, Food Notification, and Customs

Importers often confuse these procedures because they are handled at the same port or airport.

ProcedureAuthorityPurpose
Animal QuarantineMinistry of Agriculture (AQS)Livestock disease prevention
Food Import NotificationMinistry of HealthFood safety and ingredients
Customs ClearanceJapan CustomsImport approval and duties

Each process serves a different regulatory objective and must be completed independently.

Estimated Time from Animal Quarantine to Customs Clearance

Typical Lead Time (Indicative)

SituationEstimated Time
No issues in documentationSame day to next business day
Additional confirmation required1–3 business days
Non-compliance identifiedRe-export or disposal

Actual timelines may vary depending on port congestion, submission timing, and whether prior consultation was conducted.

Best Timing for Document Submission

DocumentRecommended Timing
DLD Certificate (copy)Immediately after shipment
Food Import Notification2–3 days before arrival
DLD Certificate (original)Upon arrival

Following this schedule often enables release on the day of arrival or the next business day.

Practical Pitfalls and Common Misunderstandings

Points Where Importers Often Make Mistakes

  • Assuming freeze-dried products do not require heat treatment evidence
  • Using vague wording in the DLD Certificate (e.g. “sufficiently heated”)
  • Fixating on HS 1602.49 without considering classification risk
  • Believing an EPA COO automatically reduces duty

Note: Final HS classification is determined by Customs. Depending on ingredients and processing, reclassification may occur.

To avoid classification mistakes, see our guide on using advance rulings for HS code determination
[How to Find HS Codes for Beginners: 3 Common Mistakes to Avoid].

Check out our article on how to utilize EPA for import duty savings [How to Legally Reduce Customs Duties and Consumption Tax on Food Imports].

Summary: Key Compliance Points for Importing Pork Products from Thailand

  • The DLD Certificate is mandatory, but it does not waive Japanese quarantine
  • Animal quarantine inspection in Japan is always required
  • Processed pork products generally clear quarantine faster than raw meat
  • Advance submission and prior consultation significantly reduce risk
  • Final regulatory decisions rest with Japanese authorities

The priority is not speed, but ensuring the shipment does not get stopped.

References