Ripening Order: A rough guide to how early fig varieties ripen, based on Forum members experiences. Helps in selecting figs that might be suitable to shorter season locations, on for finding varieties with different maturities for extending the season.
The basic requirements are in import permit (PPQ - Plant Protection and Quarantine Permit), an approved quarantine area/facility, a phytosanitary certificate from the originating country with each shipment, and compliance with all of the requirements specified in the USDA Plants for Planting Manual, and the terms of the PPQ permit. The requirements change, sometimes frequently, so contact the USDA before initiating any importation. Currently, August 2013, importation of Ficus carica is prohibited from all but a half dozen countries.
The current "issues" are the Citrus Longhorned Beetles and Asian Longhorned Beetles. See