Importing medicinal leeches: the documentation you need

Importing live medicinal leeches is mostly a documentation exercise. Get the paperwork right and the logistics follow; get it wrong and a perishable, living shipment is at risk.

The core documents

• CITES export permit naming species and quantity
• Veterinary / animal-health certificate for the destination
• Commercial invoice and packing list with correct tariff coding
• Any destination-specific import permits or notifications

Sequencing matters

Live shipments cannot wait at a border while a missing certificate is chased. Documentation should be prepared and verified before dispatch, and travel with the consignment.

Make it the supplier’s job

A supplier experienced in live export will assemble and check this set as standard. Confirm who is responsible for each document under your chosen Incoterm before you order.