KZA Group PTY LTD

AUSTRALIA...

Labelling requirements commerce marking

 

• Goods being imported into Australia must meet labelling requirements.
• Trade description markings must follow certain standards in order to comply.
• Goods with a false trade description must not be imported or exported.
• Goods that are imported that do not meet the requirements may be seized and forfeited.

Which goods must be labelled?

The Commerce (Trade Descriptions) Act 1905 and the Commerce (Imports) Regulations 1940 (CI Regulations) set out the labelling required for goods being imported into Australia.

Certain goods must be correctly labelled with a trade description before they can be imported.

Not all goods require labelling. The CI Regulations set out which goods or classes of goods require labelling when being imported, what  labelling is required and where it is to be applied.

What do I need to know about trade description markings?

Trade description markings must be:

• in English
• in prominent and legible characters
• on the main label or brand attached to the goods, in a prominent position and in a way that is as permanent as practicable

It must include the name of the country where the goods were made or produced.  A trade description must also include a true description about the goods. “True description” is not defined in the legislation so is taken to be anything that is true and accurate about the goods.  

Goods with a false trade description must not be imported or exported. A false trade description is one that is likely to mislead about key characteristics of the good. Examples include the weight, origin, manufacturer, preparation and contents.

If you import goods and do not meet the requirements of the Act and/or the CI Regulations, the goods may be seized and forfeited.