Although the rigorous zero-tolerance phytosanitary inspection procedures for flower imports were simplified in 1992, inferior product is still likely to be rejected. Flowers exported to Japan must be accompanied by phyto-sanitary certificates issued by the government of the exporting country. Import inspection is carried out at plant protection stations. Product found contaminated with diseases and pests are disinfected, destroyed, or reshipped. The consignee makes the choice.
Many flowers have phytotoxic reaction to the methyl bromide fumigation.
In general, because of uncertainties associated with quarantine inspection and the varying levels of damage that might be caused by fumigation, most flowers sent to Japan are grown in protective greenhouses and are sprayed in the field before shipment. The import of plants with soil attached is prohibited by the Plant Protection Law. Also, the Washington Convention for prevention of trade in endangered wild plant species is strictly enforced. This is particularly true with regard to orchids, and origins must be certified as being commercial farms. Grading by size, shape, and color is according to buyer specifications and continues to be very strict.