As cross-border shipping continues to grow, Australia and New Zealand have further tightened safety inspections on incoming parcels. To minimize delays, detentions, and the risk of goods being destroyed during customs clearance, it is essential for senders to understand the latest import restrictions.
This article provides an updated 2025 overview of key rules for three high-risk categories: food, health supplements, and battery-powered products.

 

 

 

I. Food Import Restrictions: Biosecurity Remains the Highest Priority

Both Australia and New Zealand enforce some of the strictest biosecurity regulations in the world. Any food product that may carry pathogens, insect eggs, or pose ecological risks is heavily monitored or restricted.

1. High-risk foods are prohibited or very likely to be seized

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Meat and meat products (e.g., pork floss, cured meat, jerky)

• Eggs, dairy products, and foods containing milk ingredients

• Seafood and dried marine products

• Unprocessed or unidentified dried goods (e.g., dried mushrooms, fish maw, cordyceps)

• Homemade foods, loose/unpackaged foods, and items without clear labels

Most of these items are detained or destroyed upon arrival, especially under the strengthened 2025 biosecurity enforcement measures.

2. Packaged foods must feature clear labeling

While commercial snacks are generally safer, they must meet the following requirements:

• Factory-sealed packaging

• Clear labeling of ingredients and origin

• No high-risk animal-derived ingredients

Foods without ingredient labels may still be detained for inspection.

 

 

 

II. Health Supplements: Quantity and Declaration Determine Clearance Success

Health supplements are among the most commonly shipped items from China to Australia and New Zealand. In 2025, however, scrutiny has increased significantly, and the following considerations are crucial:

1. “Reasonable personal-use quantity” is key

Although there is no official fixed limit, industry guidelines suggest:

• 3–5 bottles of the same supplement

• Avoid sending too many different brands in a single parcel

Excessive quantities may be treated as commercial goods, leading to inspection or requests for additional documentation.

2. Clear and accurate declarations are essential

Common issues include:

• Declaring items vaguely as “supplements”

• Undervaluing goods

• Not specifying brand or quantity

Correct example:
Brand: Swisse, Vitamin C 1000mg, 3 bottles, value AUD 45

Clear declarations greatly reduce the likelihood of inspection.

 

 

 

III. Battery-Powered and Electronic Devices: A Major Regulatory Focus in 2025

Due to aviation safety and customs regulations, battery-powered products are considered high-risk during clearance in Australia and New Zealand.

1. Lithium-battery items must follow stringent transport rules

This category includes:

• Mobile phones, tablets, laptops

• Smartwatches, electric toothbrushes, small electronic toys

• Drones, gimbals, cameras

Before shipping, confirm:

• Whether the battery is internal or external

• Whether the logistics channel supports such items

• Whether packaging complies with air-transport standards

Items with undeclared batteries or non-compliant packaging are very likely to be detained.

2. Shipping multiple electronic devices together increases risk

For example:

• More than two mobile phones

• Multiple tablets or electronic devices

These may be flagged as commercial shipments and trigger system alerts.

 

 

 

IV. How to Reduce the Risk of Customs Delays in Australia/New Zealand

To improve the likelihood of smooth clearance, senders should follow these recommendations:

1. Declare items truthfully and avoid vague descriptions

Accuracy and detail are essential.

2. Avoid clearly high-risk categories

Such as meat products, unprocessed dried goods, liquids, and powders.

3. Keep quantities within reasonable personal-use limits

Especially for supplements and cosmetics.

4. Use professional, compliant logistics channels

Compliant channels offer proper packaging, declaration, and transport methods that meet customs requirements.

5. Consult customer service in advance

If unsure whether an item is permitted, always check before sending.

 

 

 

V. Conclusion: Understanding the Rules Is the Key to Smooth Delivery

In 2025, Australia and New Zealand continue to strengthen controls over food, biosecurity-risk products, battery-powered items, and health supplements.
Following import regulations, declaring items properly, and choosing reliable logistics channels are essential to ensure your parcel clears customs without issue.

If you are unsure whether an item can be shipped to Australia or New Zealand, feel free to contact us. We’re here to provide the most accurate and professional guidance.