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Customs clearance of sausages and mortadella | HS Code, documents and permits

Customs clearance of sausages and mortadella from Iran Customs (HS Code + documents and permits)

Customs clearance of sausages and mortadella, as popular and sensitive meat products, requires compliance with a set of stringent laws and regulations determined and supervised by various authorities including the Ministry of Health, the Institute of Standards and Industrial Research of Iran (ISIRI), and the Veterinary Organization. Due to their perishable and sensitive nature, these products are categorized as goods requiring strict sanitary controls and quality standards.

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1) Requirements and documents needed for clearing sausages and mortadella

International Health Certificate:
Since sausages and mortadella are meat products, they must hold a valid International Health Certificate before entering Iran. This certificate is issued by the health authority in the exporting country and shows that all sanitary and safety standards have been observed during production. Importers must ensure the authenticity of this certificate and its compliance with Iran’s sanitary requirements.

Standard Certificate:
Imported food products—especially processed meats—must comply with standards set by ISIRI. This certificate, issued by a competent body in the exporting country, confirms that the imported product meets the approved criteria for human consumption. ISIRI may also re-inspect and give the final approval after entry.

Ministry of Health License:
Given the high sensitivity of these products, a license from Iran’s Ministry of Health is required. This license ensures the imported product is sanitary and poses no public health risk. The Ministry of Health may apply further checks, including microbiological and chemical tests, on imported batches.

Product labeling:
All imported products must carry accurate labels in accordance with Iranian customs and food-labeling rules. Information such as production date, expiry date, producer name and address, ingredients, and nutrition facts must be clearly stated. Non-compliance can lead to seizure and return to origin.

2) Customs tariff (HS Code) for sausages and mortadella

The customs tariff for sausages and mortadella typically falls under HS Code 16010000. This heading covers processed meat products and may vary based on product type, ingredients used, and production method. Knowing the precise HS Code helps importers forecast duties more accurately and speed up clearance.
Goods Short description HS Code
Sausages & mortadella (meat products) Processed products of red/white meat 16010000

* The exact subheading can vary by meat type, fat/protein ratio, additives, and processing method.

3) Quality and sanitary controls

Imports of sausages and mortadella into Iran are subject to strict quality and sanitary controls by the Veterinary Organization and the Ministry of Health. Checks include chemical composition and additives, fat and protein levels, and microbiological tests for bacterial/viral contamination. After arrival, health inspectors review products from multiple angles, and only after full approval is market entry permitted.

4) Transport and storage conditions

Refrigerated transport

Because meat products are highly temperature-sensitive, sausages and mortadella must be stored and shipped under special conditions. The recommended temperature during transport is generally 0 to 4 °C. Shipments must use vehicles equipped with advanced refrigeration systems to prevent spoilage. Reefer containers must have continuous temperature monitoring to avoid any deviation from target conditions along the route.

Refrigerated containers

Using refrigerated containers is one of the key requirements for transporting sausages and mortadella. These containers should be fitted with precise temperature-control and real-time monitoring so that optimal conditions are maintained throughout the journey. Any temperature spike can cause spoilage and loss of quality, making continuous supervision critical.

5) Main exporting countries of sausages and mortadella to Iran

European countries—especially Germany, Spain, France, and Turkey—are among the largest exporters of sausages and mortadella to Iran. Owing to advanced processing technologies and adherence to international sanitary standards, these suppliers play a significant role in serving the Iranian market. High product quality and compliance with Iranian food regulations also facilitate smoother imports.

6) Exports of sausages and mortadella from Iran

Iran, as a major producer of processed meat in the region, has secured a notable share of export markets in recent years. Neighboring destinations—such as Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf states including the UAE are the primary markets for Iranian sausages and mortadella. Growing demand and attention to quality and global standards have fueled rapid export growth.

7) Import and export volumes for Iran

Due to high domestic demand, Iran imports significant volumes of sausages and mortadella each year. It is estimated that Iran imports over 10,000 tons annually, largely from European countries and Turkey. That said, a substantial share of local consumption is supplied by domestic production.
On the export side, shipments of sausages and mortadella from Iran to neighboring countries have risen markedly in recent years; based on recent figures, over 5,000 tons of processed meats are exported annually.

8) Global trade and key players

The global sausage and mortadella industry is one of the largest segments of the food sector, with annual trade worth tens of billions of dollars. According to global statistics, the trade value of these products exceeds $60 billion per year. European countries notably Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and Poland are among the top producers and exporters, while Asian and Middle Eastern countries are major consumer markets.

Top global exporters of sausages and mortadella

  • Germany: With one of the most advanced meat-processing industries, Germany tops the global exporters list.
  • Spain: A leading European exporter, famous for specialty sausages such as chorizo.
  • France & Italy: Recognized for product diversity and modern technologies, both are prominent exporters.
  • Poland & the Netherlands: Eastern and Western Europe both contribute strongly with high-quality processed meats.

Top global importers of sausages and mortadella

  • United States: As one of the largest consumers of processed meat, the U.S. covers a sizable share via imports.
  • China: Rapid economic growth and higher living standards make China a major importer.
  • Japan & South Korea: High demand and preference for imported processed meats keep these markets among the top importers.
  • Gulf countries: Due to high consumption and broad reliance on imported foods, GCC markets are also significant importers.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the HS Code for sausages and mortadella?

Sausages and mortadella are usually classified under 16010000; the final subheading depends on meat type, fat/protein ratio, additives, and processing.

What documents are required for clearance?

International Health Certificate, Standard Certificate, Ministry of Health license, full labeling, bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, inspection certificate (if required), customs declaration, and proof of refrigerated transport.

What is the proper temperature for transport and storage?

Typically 0 to 4 °C; using refrigerated containers with real-time temperature monitoring is essential.

What do quality and sanitary controls include?

Review of chemical composition and additives, fat/protein measurement, microbiological tests for bacterial/viral contamination, and final approval by competent authorities.

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  • Alt Text: Customs clearance of sausages and mortadella in Iran | HS 16010000
  • Caption: “Clearance steps for sausages and mortadella; from sanitary permits to cold-chain transport”
  • Infographic: “Checklist of documents and temperature conditions for sausage & mortadella shipping”

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Summary and call to action

Due to sanitary and standard-compliance sensitivities, clearing sausages and mortadella requires precise document planning, obtaining health permits, and observing cold-chain conditions. With hands-on experience, Saba Tarkhis executes your process quickly and in full compliance.

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Specialized clearance services by Saba Brokerage

Saba Brokerage offers extensive, specialized services for clearing all types of goods especially processed meats like sausages and mortadella—making it a top choice for importers of these products. Our services include:

  • Specialized consulting: Our expert team well-versed in customs regulations guides importers through every step. From selecting the correct tariff code to preparing and submitting documents to supervisory bodies, all stages are handled with precision and professionalism.
  • Document acquisition & preparation: We obtain all necessary permits, including Health Certificate, Standard Certificate, and Ministry of Health license, and submit them completely and correctly to customs so you can import without administrative hassle.
  • Fast, professional follow-up: A key benefit of working with us is our speed in dealing with customs. Using advanced digital systems, clearance steps proceed quickly and importers receive regular status updates.
  • Cold-chain logistics: In cooperation with reputable carriers, we deliver imported products to their final destination under the best conditions. Product freshness and safety are preserved along the route.
  • Real-time notifications: We provide live status reports on your clearance process so you can track your shipment at any moment and manage any issues or delays.

Leveraging experience and expertise, we provide end-to-end, comprehensive clearance services for sausages and mortadella that accelerate and simplify your imports.

Contact our experts for more information.

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