18. The Import Equation: Solving Regulatory Challenges for Biological Materials
A guide for navigating the lawful importation of biological materials
A distance learning opportunity
August 4, 2026
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM (CDT)
Registration for the live webinar must be completed 1 business day prior to the start of the training.
Registrations received after will receive access to the recording only.
Overview
This workshop is designed for professionals involved in the importation of biological materials, including government, academic, and industry stakeholders. The session will provide a foundation in regulatory requirements—grounded in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) authority—along with key compliance processes and best practices for importing biological materials. Participants will learn how to strengthen partnerships, clarify import processes, enhance biosecurity awareness, and reduce compliance issues. Real-world case studies, practical tips, and interactive discussions will be included to help participants apply lessons in practice.
At the end of this two-hour workshop, participants will have a baseline understanding of regulatory frameworks, key compliance steps, and resources to limit disruptions during importation. The workshop will be led by subject matter experts from relevant federal agencies.
Objectives
- Identify key regulations governing the importation of biological materials
- Summarize the permit and paperwork requirements for importation
- Recognize the impacts of non-compliance and how to avoid them
- Describe the best practices for transporting and storing biological materials
- Research and enhance threat awareness and biosecurity risk mitigation
- Examine resources and agency guidance for importation
- Describe when and how to seek help from regulatory agencies
Audience Level:
All levels
Suggested Background:
None
Who Should Attend:
Professionals in government, industry, academia, and other organizations who import, handle, or oversee biological materials.
CONTACT HOURS
This course has been approved for 0.25 CM points toward RBP/CBSP recertification. *ABSA International is approved as a provider of continuing education programs in clinical laboratory sciences by the ASCLS P.A.C.E.® Program. This course is approved for 2.0 P.A.C.E.® contact hours. Course access links are unique and for individual use only. Sharing is prohibited. Duplicate logins or unregistered attendees will be removed from the webinar without a refund.
Course Logistics:
Course is one 2-hour session. Attendees will need to log on 15 minutes prior to the start time. To receive credit and a certificate, attendees must attend the session and complete or access all course modules. The course materials are for registered participants only.
COURSE FEES
ABSA Members FREE
Nonmembers $150 USD
Group Discount:
10% off each registration for 3-4 participants from the same organization
20% off each registration for 5-9 participants from the same organization
30% off each registration for 10 or more participants from the same organization
Contact the ABSA office to register your group
Confirmed, paid participants will be sent detailed information regarding the course within a few days prior to the course. Substitutions allowed with notice by 7/7/2026. There is a 15% processing fee for cancellations prior to 7/14/2026. No refunds after 7/14/2026.
QUESTIONS
Please direct questions about this course to:
KariAnn DeServi, MEd
Director of Education, ABSA
866.425.1385 / education@absa.org



