FAQ

Everything You Need to Know About Lazaro Vanilla & Spices

This section brings forward the most frequently asked questions about our products, services, and commitments.

Regarding various queries you might have ranging from product quality to export logistics, certifications, and traceability, we have attempted to provide, simple, clear answers that will hopefully help you clarify them and to assess our professionalism.

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About Lazaro

What is Lazaro’s story and mission ?

Lazaro is a Malagasy company based in the SAVA region, the world’s cradle of Bourbon vanilla. We grow, collect, process, and export premium vanilla and natural spices, cultivated through sustainable agriculture. 

Nous valoriser le terroir de Madagascar à travers des produits éthiques et d’exception.

Which markets does Lazaro operate in ?

We operate both locally (Madagascar) and internationally - in Europe, the United States of America, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Indian Ocean islands. 

Nos produits respectent les normes sanitaires, phytosanitaires et de qualité exigées par ces marchés.

Products and Quality

Are your products 100% natural ?

Yes, all products are 100% natural, GMO-free, gluten-free, and pesticide-free, cultivated through ethical, fair and environmentally friendly farming.

What types of products do you offer ?

We export Bourbon vanilla beans (Gourmet, TK, Red Europe, Red USA, Cuts), Pompona vanilla, and derived products (powder, seeds, caviar, extract).
We also supply premium spices such as cloves, black pepper, red pili pili chili, ginger, garlic, cocoa beans, coffee and cashew nuts.

What types of vanilla do you supply ?

Nous offrons principalement :

• Bourbon vanilla beans, Grade A (Gourmet, TK, Red Europe) and Grade B (Red USA, Cuts).
• Sizes: 10–13 cm, 14–16 cm, 16+ cm.
• Derived products: powder, beans, caviar, extract.

What makes Madagascar Bourbon vanilla unique ?

Its remarkable aromatic property is derived from a unique combination of highly humid tropical climate, fertile volcanic soils, and artisanal expertise passed down through generations. Each flower is hand-pollinated and the SAVA terroir gives the beans their world-famous quality.

Un service contrôle qualité suit l’ensemble des étapes de production, de préparation et de transformation.

Are your products certified and traceable ?

Yes. Full traceability from producer to export.
We provide phytosanitary certificates and compliance certificates meeting EU and U.S. standards.

Les fèves de cacao bénéficient d’une certification Bio.

What is the vanillin content ?

• Grade A (Gourmet, TK, European Red Vanilla) : 1.8%-2.2%
• Grade B (U.S. Red Vanilla, Cuts) : 0.9%-2%

Who are your typical clients ?

• Chefs, chocolatiers, pastry makers, and caterers
• Food and beverage industries (ice cream, rum distilleries, confectionery…)
• Extract industries
• Cosmetics industries
• B2B importers, wholesalers and distributors

Orders and Trade Terms

How to place an order ?

1. Request a quote via Pro Corner or the Contact form.
2. Receive a detailed proforma invoice.
3. Confirm and pay a 50% deposit.
4. Order confirmed by Lazaro.
5. Preparation of products and export documentation.
6. Original documents sent (invoice, certificate of origin, B/L).
7. Upon receipt of goods, the balance payment is made.

Do you provide samples ?

Yes. Samples are available upon request and their cost may be deducted from the first order.

How are prices determined ?

Prices are usually quoted in USD and may fluctuate from time-to-time due to based on global market conditions, product quality, size, and order quantity.

Do you offer volume discounts or long-term contracts ?

Yes, preferential rates and long-term agreements are available for regular or large-volume clients.

Can the products be customized ?

Yes, we offer specific blends or combinations tailored to our clients’ needs.

Can the packaging be customized ?

Yes, we can personalize the labeling with your brand or custom markings.

How are the products packaged ?

Packaging is adapted according to the type of product, client requirements, and volumes (vacuum-sealed, export cartons, jute bags, etc.) to preserve quality and aroma.

Logistics and Export

Which countries do you export to ?

We export worldwide: Europe, USA, Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Indian Ocean islands.

What are your delivery times ?

Standard preparation: 7-15 business days after order confirmation
Maritime transport: 30-45 days depending on destination.
Air freight and express delivery options are available.
Des solutions express aériennes sont disponibles sur demande.

Which export documents do you provide ?

Chaque lot est accompagné de :

• Invoice
• Packing list
• Phytosanitary certificate
• Certificate of origin
• Bill of lading (sea/air)
• Export certificate
• Insurance certificate

Do you handle customs procedures ?

Yes, we prepare all export documentation.
The importer however remains responsible for clearing the goods from customs once the products reach the final port of discharge.
Nous travaillons selon les incoterms FOB.

Are there U.S. import duties on vanilla ?

Yes, U.S. customs duties apply depending on the product classification.
The client (importer) must check with their freight forwarder the exact customs code corresponding to the imported product (raw or processed goods).
Indicative HS codes :
Vanilla : 0905.10.0000
Coffee : 0901.21.0000
Pepper : 0904.11.0000
Cocoa : 1801.00.0000
Cloves : 0907.00.0000

Payment and Security

What are your payment terms ?

• 50% down payment by bank transfer or TT upon order confirmation of order; 50% balance upon receipt of goods.
• For recurring clients, flexible terms can be negotiated.

Do you accept card or PayPal payments ?

• No, payment via PayPal is not available.
• For security reasons, payment by credit card is not recommended.

Are bank transfers secure ?

Yes. We work with high profile banks locally having recognizable banking network worldwide.

Support and Customer Care

What if there’s an issue upon delivery ?

Contact us with photos and details - we guarantee full satisfaction.
We offer either credit notes or make good for the spoilt lots or make partial refunds. See Contact paage
Une solution équitable sera proposée : avoir, remplacement ou remboursement partiel.

Do you provide usage or storage advice ?

Yes, our experts guide you on :

• Appropriate variety of beans to be used (splitting, infusion, dosage)
• Optimal storage (temperature, humidity, light)
• Culinary and industrial applications

Can I speak with a specialist ?

Yes, our marketing, technical and logistics teams are available for tailored advice.

Commitments and Sustainability

What is your fair trade approach ?

We ensure fair remuneration for farmers, support the “1000 Planters” cooperative, promote women’s inclusion, training, healthcare, and education access.

What environmental practices do you apply ?

We promote agroforestry, reforestation and crop diversification (cloves, coffee, cocoa, spices) to protect biodiversity and healthy soil.