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Import Regulations & Standards
The import regulations imposed by the countries time to time to ensure Food Safety and Quality assurance includes non Tariff barriers for the various food products.
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View Regulations
27 Jun 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India (GOI) recently notified to the World Trade Organization (WTO) changes in India’s Food Import Regulations. The comment period for trading partners expires 60 days beyond the notification date as listed on the WTO’s website (www.wto.org).
click here
21 Jun 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has notified an extension of the time period allowed for compliance with standards for caffeinated beverages. With this directive FSSAI has exempted Food Business Operators (FBOs) from the said regulations till December 31, 2017.
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21 Jun 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On June 5, 2017, the Government of India’s Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) standards for table olives came into effect. The guidelines specify regulatory requirements pertaining to table olives. On November 24, 2016, FSSAI had published new standards for table olives and allowed a grace period of 180 days.
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12 Jun 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On May 26, 2017, FSSAI published a draft notification on Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Amendment Regulations, 2017. Comments and suggestions are invited from the stakeholders for a period of 30 days from the date of publication of the notification on FSSAI’s website.
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25 May 2017
India
India :Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On April 17, 2017, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) implemented its Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Regulations, 2017.
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22 May 2017
Germany
Germany : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Germany is a member of the European Union (EU) and generally follows EU directives and regulations, including those relating to the importation of food products. This report provides an overview of food laws in force in Germany that cover areas which are not yet harmonized. Food laws currently in force in the EU-28 are summarized in the EU 28 FAIRS report.
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17 May 2017
Brazil
Brazil Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Due to recent changes by Brazil in the procedures to register U.S plants that process fish and fishery products for human consumption, FAS/ Brasilia prepared this comprehensive report with instructions for U.S. exporters to register plants and product labels. FAS/Brasilia updated Annex IV of this report due to recent changes by the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture.
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17 May 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On May 4, 2017, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India notified WTO members of the draft Food Safety and Standards (Organic Foods) Regulations, 2017. Objections, comments, or suggestions by the WTO member countries must be submitted within 60 days from the date of notification.
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25 Apr 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On April 13, 2017, the Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published additional guidance regarding its Food Import Clearance System (FICS).
click here
14 Apr 2017
Turkey
Turkey: Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the major export certificates and other requirements expected by the government of Turkey (GOT) for imports to Turkey of food and agricultural products. This report should be read in coordination with the Food and Agriculture Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) Report Narrative, which outlines specific requirements for food and agricultural products imports into Turkey.
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29 Mar 2017
Angola
Angola : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report documents Angola’s policies, practices, and import requirements for food and agricultural products. Section IV includes new information about food labelling requirements and Section VI has been updated to reflect a July 2016 presidential decree regarding required laboratory testing for food and beverage products.
click here
14 Mar 2017
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan: Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an overview of the general legal and technical requirements for food and agricultural imports imposed by the Republic of Kazakhstan.
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13 Mar 2017
EU-28
EU-28 : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This guide provides an overview of export health certificates needed for exporting plants, animals, foods and other animal origin products to the European Union. U.S. regulatory agencies have been informed of the wide range of certificate changes that have occurred in the past months and have updated their export manuals to reflect those changes.
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03 Mar 2017
Ethiopia
Ethiopia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Ethiopia’s food safety regime is still in its early stages. While much of the legal and regulatory framework underpinning this regime is in place, capacity gaps make enforcement difficult. Many of these gaps will gradually be addressed as public awareness of food safety increases.
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24 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On February 2, 2017, the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) published guidelines specific to e-commerce food business operators (FBO). The guideline specifies regulatory requirements pertaining to e-commerce FBOs.
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24 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India (GOI) published its final standards for malt and malt-based foods in The Gazette of India. According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the standards were implemented as of the date of their publication in The Gazette of India on February 13, 2017.
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15 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative Exporter Guide
The Government of India (GOI) published its final notification on updated standards for oats, pasta, fats and oils in the Official Gazette of India. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) notes the implementation date as July 1, 2017. The final notification incorporates some of the feedback received during the public comment period following the earlier published draft notification on July 12, 2016.
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12 Feb 2017
Panama Republic
Panama : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Consumers continue to perceive U.S. food products as high quality, wholesome and reliable, which has resulted in a continuous growth in demand. The U.S.-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement entered into force on October 31, 2012, and established simplified requirements for the importation of U.S. food and feed products. Recent amendments to this bilateral agreement have facilitated U.S. beef, beef products and pet food exports.
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09 Feb 2017
Netherland
Netherlands : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an addendum to the EU FAIRS report – E16060. It lists the Dutch import regulations and standards that are not harmonized within the EU or where the Netherlands varies with the EU standards. All sections of this report were updated.
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08 Feb 2017
United Kingdom
United Kingdom : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The United Kingdom (UK), as a member of the European Union (EU), conforms to all EU regulations and directives. For information on EU export certification requirements, please see the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification report prepared by the FAS Office in the U.S. Mission to the EU.
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07 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative Exporter Guide
Government of India’s Food Safety and Standard Authority of India’s (FSSAI) invited comments on its draft notification on nonalcoholic and carbonated beverages. The comment period for trading partners will expire 60 days after the notification is published on the WTO’s website (www.wto.org).
click here
07 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
India notified its new draft standards for special dietary foods with low-sodium content, including salt substitutes, to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and invited WTO members to provide comments. The comment period for trading partners expires 60 days beyond the notification date listed on the WTO website (www.wto.org).
click here
07 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) with the objective of raising awareness among importers about India’s food import clearance process.
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03 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published the Food Safety and Standards (Food Recall Procedure) Regulations, 2017. The updated regulation includes specifics about food recall procedures for manufactures, processers, distributers, sales, importers and exporters.
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03 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published draft guidelines for food business operators (FBO). The draft guidelines stipulate mandatory licenses for all food manufacturers, importers, distributors, storage units, marketers, retailers, and suppliers.
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03 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
India notified to the World Trade Organization (WTO) revised draft standards for date paste, fermented soybean paste, cocoa mass or cocoa/chocolate liquor and cocoa cake, vegetable protein products, thermally processed fruit salad/cocktail/mix, harrisa (red chili paste), and cocoa powder. India will accept comments from trading partners for up to 60 days beyond the notification date as listed on the WTO’s website (www.wto.org).
click here
03 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to regulatory compliance issues.
click here
03 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
India notified its revised draft standards for certain sweetening agents such as cane jaggery, sodium saccharin and calcium saccharin to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and invited comments from member countries. The comment period for trading partners expires 60 days beyond the notification date as listed on the WTO’s website (www.wto.org).
click here
03 Feb 2017
Senegal
Senegal : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an annual update of Senegal’s food and feed regulations and governmental regulatory bodies and enforcement mechanisms. The report includes references to the Codex Alimentarius system, as well as, guidance on import procedures and documentation. Since 2013.
click here
03 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published a notification inviting comments from World Trade Organization (WTO) member countries on its new draft standards for shea butter, borneo tallow, and fatty acid composition for various other edible vegetable oils. The comment period for trading partners expires 60 days beyond the notification date as listed on the WTO’s website (www.wto.org).
click here
03 Feb 2017
China P rp
China : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
During 2016, China continued issuing numerous new regulations, rules and measures to reflect the requirements introduced by the 2015 Food Safety Law. Most notably, China implemented new registration systems, including registration for grains and oilseeds (AQSIQ Decree 177), registration for live seafood (AQSIQ Decree 183); and introduced registration requirements for infant formula recipes (CFDA Decree 26), foods for special medical purposes (CFDA Decree 24), and health foods (CFDA Decree 22).
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03 Feb 2017
China P rp
China : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Chinese government for imports of food and agricultural products. Major changes in 2016 include China’s implementation of new registration requirements on grains and oilseeds (AQSIQ Decree 177) and live seafood (AQSIQ Decree 183). China also introduced registration requirements for infant formula recipes (CFDA Decree 26), health foods (CFDA Decree 22), and foods for special medical purposes (CFDA Decree 24). In addition, in 2016, China granted market access for California strawberries and U.S. sugar beet pulp.
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03 Feb 2017
Senegal
Senegal : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report is a reissuance of the 2015 FAIRS export certificate report with no additional information. Senegal is a member of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). Since 2014 it has continued to authorize optional use of ePhyto, international standard for electronic transmission protocols and procedures for plant health certification,
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02 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published regulations for functional foods in India’s official gazette. Products affected by the new regulations include nutritional supplements, nutraceuticals, special dietary foods, and medical or therapeutic food products.
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02 Feb 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published its Food Safety and Standards (Food Import) Regulations, 2017. The updated food import regulation supersedes the food import regulations that were made operational on September 2, 2016.
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30 Jan 2017
Nigeria
Nigeria : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has played the lead role for regulating food safety systems in Nigeria over the past decade. The international accreditation of the agency’s two major laboratories in recent years has reasonably boosted its capacity to enforce Nigeria’s food safety system regulations.
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28 Jan 2017
Romania
Romania : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Romania applies the EU regulations on imports of animal and non-animal products from third countries. The export certification is harmonized at EU level for the large majority of products. Romanian legislation applies to the minor categories on which requirements are not harmonized
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27 Jan 2017
Honduras
Honduras : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The National Plant, Animal Health and Food Safety Service (SENASA) of the Secretariat of Agriculture and Livestock has requested and seeks to enforce that the products display the production date, lot number and expiration date on the shipping carton(s) upon arrival at the port.
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17 Jan 2017
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Saudi Arabia’s regulatory authorities continue to strictly enforce Saudi and GSO food import regulations and standards, particularly those related to allowable limits for food additives and labeling requirements. In June 2016, Saudi Arabia lifted its ban on imports of U.S. beef after the U.S. government agreed to establish a USDA Export Verification (EV) Program.
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11 Jan 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published in India’s official gazette a draft Regulation on food fortification.
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10 Jan 2017
Venezuela
Venezuela : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies the different export certification requirements currently in place by product. The Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela (GBRV) is responsible, through its different Ministries, for issuing import permits, import licenses and conducting processed food product registrations. Post updates only minor changes in this report.
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10 Jan 2017
Venezuela
Venezuela : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an annual update of the agricultural product import standards and enforcement mechanisms in Venezuela for U.S. exporters of agricultural commodities, foods and beverages. Venezuela remains a complicated destination for exporting agricultural products, but opportunities exist.
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05 Jan 2017
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On December 19, 2016, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution invited stakeholder comments on draft amendments on the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011. The comments are invited until January 17, 2017, on the draft regulations.
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04 Jan 2017
Brazil
Brazil : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements for food and agricultural product imports into Brazil, including import procedures. There were no significant changes in 2016 to general regulations that impact imports of agricultural goods.
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03 Jan 2017
Argentina
Argentina : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides overall information on regulations and standards for importing U.S. food and beverages into Argentina. However, Post recommends U.S. suppliers interested in the Argentine market to contact local importers to find out about specific rules and regulations that may apply to particular products. A new government took office in Argentina on December 10, 2015, and since then it has implemented new measures towards a more open economy.
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03 Jan 2017
Indonesia
Indonesia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
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30 Dec 2016
Indonesia
Indonesia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated technical information for requirements and regulations on food and agriculture products as are currently required by the Government of Indonesia (GOI). Updated sections are: Sections II, V, VI, VII, VIII, XI, and Appendix IV.
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30 Dec 2016
Colombia
Colombia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an annual update of the food import standards and enforcement mechanisms in Colombia. The following sections were updated: SECTION II. LABELING REQUIREMENTS; SECTION III. PACKAGING AND CONTAINER REQUIREMENTS; SECTION VI. OTHER REGULATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS; SECTION VII. OTHER SPECIFIC STANDARDS: Food samples; and APPENDIX I. GOVERNMENT REGULATORY AGENCY CONTACTS.
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30 Dec 2016
Chile
Chile : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report updates import certification requirements that companies need to export their agricultural products to Chile. Since the last FAIRS Export Certificate report was issued by FAS/Santiago in 2015, Chile granted access for U.S. breeding swine. Please refer to the Live Animals section for an update on those certification requirements.
click here
30 Dec 2016
Morocco
Morocco : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Morocco as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports. Sections I, II, VI, VII, and the Appendix have all been updated.
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29 Dec 2016
Tunisia
Tunisia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Tunisia as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports. Sections I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VIII, IX and the Appendix have all been updated.
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29 Dec 2016
Colombia
Colombia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report includes Colombia’s import requirements for import permits and export certificates for multiple food products for human and animal consumption. It also provides a list of the Colombian government agencies involved in the entry of imported food products.
click here
29 Dec 2016
Honduras
Honduras : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The National Plant, Animal Health and Food Safety Service (SENASA) within the Secretariat of Agriculture and Livestock (SAG), is the regulatory agency responsible for the inspection of all agricultural products that enter Honduras.
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29 Dec 2016
Thailand
Thailand : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report includes an update of Section 6.6 (pertaining to specific import controls for beef and beef products from BSE-affected countries) and Section 6.10 (pertaining to the novel food regulation). The other minor changes made to this report include.
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28 Dec 2016
Morocco
Morocco : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The report provides information on export certificates that the Government of Morocco requires. The Moroccan food safety authority, “Office National de Sécurité Sanitaire des Produits Alimentaires” (ONSSA) is the national authority responsible for ensuring food safety and food regulations in the country. On October 13, 2016, APHIS and ONSSA jointly signed a new health certificate to resume trade of U.S. bovine semen and pet food exports to Morocco.
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23 Dec 2016
Peru
Peru : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Peru’s regulatory requirements for food and agricultural product imports and updates the 2015 FAIRS Country Report’s on the following sections: Section I: General Food Laws item 1.8; 1.10 and 1.13; Section V: Pesticide and Other Contaminants; Section III: Packaging and Container Requirements.
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23 Dec 2016
New Zealand
New Zealand : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the major export certificates and other documentation required by the Government of New Zealand for U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products. New Zealand’s import requirements for food and agricultural products are complex and change frequently. Therefore, this report focuses on the certificate requirements for U.S. products with the strongest export potential. Sections Updated: Section I, III, IV, V.
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23 Dec 2016
South Africa
South Africa : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This is the second FAIRS - Certification Report for South Africa. The report lists major certificates and permits required to export food and agricultural products to South Africa. It is recommended that this report be read with the FAIRS – Narrative Report (Click here to download the 2015 FAIRS report) for a comprehensive understanding of the South African regulations and standards.
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23 Dec 2016
Poland
Poland : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Poland as a member of the European Union applies EU directives and regulations to agricultural imports with only few exceptions.
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23 Dec 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued multiple amendments for regulations related to food imports, food additives, standards, contaminants, toxins, labeling, and packaging in calendar year (CY) 2016. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture (MinAg) revised the guidelines for Export/Import of Bovine Germplasm and notified a draft veterinary health certificate for dog and cat food (containing animal origin material) imports to the World Trade Organization (WTO).
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22 Dec 2016
Jordan
Jordan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The report lists and describes certificates that should accompany food and agricultural products to Jordan. It also includes the purpose of each certificate and the governmental agency responsible. In general, an original invoice, bill of lading, health certificate, and certificate of origin are required to accompany any shipment. An export certificate matrix is included in this report
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22 Dec 2016
Chile
Chile : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On June 27, 2016, Chile’s Ministry of Health’s (MOH) new Nutritional Labeling Law came into force. Products that exceed the MOH’s set limits of sugar, salt, saturated fats and calories are required to put a label in the shape of a stop sign on the front of the package and are prohibited from advertising or marketing those products to children under 14 years of age (please refer to Section V, Labeling Requirements for more information).
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22 Dec 2016
Japan
Japan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an overview of Japan’s general legal and technical requirements for food and agricultural imports. While all sections of this report have been updated, the following sections have seen substantive revisions from the 2015 FAIRS report: Section II. Food Additives Regulations, Section V. Labeling Requirements, and Section VI. Other Specific Standards.
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22 Dec 2016
Guatemala
Guatemala : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The GOG made several policy changes to facilitate trade, while other policies continue to cause problems. The Ministry of Agriculture (MAGA) rescinded plant-by-plant inspections of non-processed seafood, and animal products to Guatemala. A Central America Technical Regulation on food additives continues to create import delays, while the Ministry of Health accepts an AMS Sanitary Certificate for dairy product registration, dropping the Certificate of Free Sale requirement for each commercial shipment.
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22 Dec 2016
Guatemala
Guatemala : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Section III. Specific Attestations Required on Export Certificate(s) have been updated for: a) live cattle for breeding purposes, b) poultry and poultry products, to reflect FSIS export library updates to comply with Guatemala requirement. New export certification requirements have been posted for: a) pet food, b) dairy products, c) pet chews w/bovine ingredients, and d) poultry and feather meals.
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22 Dec 2016
Czech Republic
Czech Republic : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on the laws and regulations for food, import rules for food, and contact information in the Czech Republic. It is recommended to read the EU-28 Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards , because the Czech Republic, a member of the European Union, follows the EU directives and regulations.
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22 Dec 2016
Peru
Peru : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies Peru’s import requirements for (foreign) export certificates. Current procedures are highlighted and relevant agencies with oversight on these issues are identified. This report replaces the Food and Agricultural Import Regulation Report (FAIRS) submitted in 2015. Updates have been made to the sanitary certificate portions of Sections III and IV, as well as to Appendix I (animal and plant products sections).
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22 Dec 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
In calendar year (CY) 2016, the Government of India (GOI) continued to amend its Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011, for food safety, labeling, and packaging of imported products. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture (MinAg) revised its Export/Import of Bovine Germplasm Guidelines, and notified to the World Trade Organization (WTO) a draft veterinary health certificate for importing dog and cat food (containing animal origin material).
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21 Dec 2016
Chile
Chile : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report updates import certification requirements that companies need to export their agricultural products to Chile. Since the last FAIRs Export Certificate report was issued by FAS/Santiago in 2015, Chile granted access for U.S. breeding swine. Please refer to the Live Animals section for an update on those certification requirements.
click here
21 Dec 2016
Japan
Japan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Japanese government to export food and agricultural products to Japan. For more information on import requirements, see Japan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Report of December 2016.
click here
21 Dec 2016
New Zealand
New Zealand : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules for plant and animal products but also imports large volumes of food and beverage products. This report outlines regulatory requirements for food and agricultural products exported to New Zealand. All sections of this report have been reviewed and updated to reflect current laws and regulations. On March 1, 2016, a reorganized version of the New Zealand Food Standards Code came into effect and links throughout this report have been updated to reflect this change.
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21 Dec 2016
South Africa
South Africa : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All the sections of the Report have been updated based on recent regulation amendments, updated website links and to comply with the reporting instructions
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21 Dec 2016
Ghana
Ghana : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
In this year’s FAIRS Report, Post is providing information on the regulations and procedures for the importation of food and agricultural products to Ghana. The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) is the national authority responsible for ensuring food safety and regulations as well as to promote public health throughout the country.
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21 Dec 2016
Japan
Canada : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Export Certification
The report identifies export certificates issued by U.S. government authorities to comply with Canadian import standards and regulations or to attest those products subject to U.S. government regulation. This report serves as a supplement to the Food and Agricultural Importation Regulation Narrative Report (FAIRS/CA16058).
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21 Dec 2016
Nicaragua
Nicaragua : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report lists the main Nicaraguan food laws, technical regulations and import requirements.
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21 Dec 2016
Nicaragua
Nicaragua : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists Nicaragua import requirements for export certification and import permits for agrochemicals, veterinary products, feed stuffs and food products for human consumption.
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21 Dec 2016
Czech Republic
Czech Republic : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Czech Republic has implemented all EU regulations regarding required export certifications. For information on EU export certifications, please see the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Certification Report prepared by USEU Brussels available at http://gain.fas.usda.gov.
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21 Dec 2016
United Kingdom
United Kingdom : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is intended to supplement the European Food & Agricultural Import Regulations (FAIRS) Report with UK-specific information. The UK FAIRS provides contact information for the competent authorities that are responsible for the import of animal products, plant products, forestry products, fishery products and general food products into the United Kingdom.
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20 Dec 2016
Lithuania
Lithuania : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Report Sections updated: All sections were updated. The EU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report for EU-28, prepared by the US Mission to the EU in Brussels should be reviewed in conjunction with this report.
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20 Dec 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative Exporter Guide
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published in India’s official gazette a draft regulation which proposes to adopt 46 food additive standards previously issued by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution’s Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
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20 Dec 2016
Thailand
Thailand : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists certificates required by Thai government agencies for U.S. products exported to Thailand, including 57 processed and unprocessed food items, other prepackaged processed food, fruit and vegetables, live animals, boneless beef, canned or preserved meat and poultry products, other processed meat products, processed or frozen seafood, hides and skins, distillers dried grains, and live animals.
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20 Dec 2016
Brazil
Brazil : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies Brazil’s import requirements for foreign export certificates. An export certificate matrix and outline is included.
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20 Dec 2016
Costa Rica
Costa Rica : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Costa Rica’s requirements for food and agricultural product imports. Costa Rican legislation dealing with food and agricultural imports has undergone some change over the last few years.
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19 Dec 2016
Belgium
Belgium-Luxembourg : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report should be read in conjunction with the EU-28 Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU (GAIN report E16060). This report focuses on the import regulations and standards that are not harmonized in the EU or where Belgium varies.
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19 Dec 2016
Vietnam Social Republic
Vietnam : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides an overview of the health and quarantine certificates needed for exporting food and agricultural products to Vietnam. Minor updates have been made to Section I.2 for animal and animal products; Section I.3 for meat and meat products; Section I.4 for aquatic animals and products thereof; and Section I.5 for irradiated plant products. No other changes have been made from the previous report.
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19 Dec 2016
Egypt Arab Republic
Egypt : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is updated to include updates Egypt’s new import procedures for corn, soybeans, and wheat, which will come into force on January 1, 2017. Under decree 2992/2016, issued by the Egyptian Prime Minister, the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s (MTI) General Organization for Export and Import Control (GOEIC) will be the only authorized government agency responsible for the inspection of corn, soybeans, and wheat at ports of origin.
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16 Dec 2016
Bulgaria
Bulgaria : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Bulgaria, a member of the European Union (EU) since 2007, follows all EU directives and regulations. This report is an update of BU1603 and outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Bulgaria, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation
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16 Dec 2016
Ecuador
Ecuador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Ecuador’s requirements for food and agricultural product imports. The major changes from the previous 2015 report are related to the Sanitary Notification formerly known as the Sanitary Registration. Hyperlinks to ministries, agencies, and legal documents are provided by FAS Quito throughout this updated report.
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16 Dec 2016
Kenya
Kenya : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report compliments the FAIRS Country Report, and provides information on certificates that are required by the Government of Kenya (GOK) to export food and agricultural products into Kenya. GOK has put in place the Kenya TradeNet System, an online single window for exporters and importers to electronically submit and receive approvals from all the regulatory agencies that are involved in international trade, and is linked to the banking system for payments.
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15 Dec 2016
Singapore
Singapore : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative.
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15 Dec 2016
Serbia
Serbia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides guidance on the certificate requirements for agricultural and food products imported into the Serbian market and includes the certificates that are standardized between the Serbian Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection and the relevant U.S. authorities (USDA/APHIS, USDA/FSIS, USDA/AMS, and FDA).
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15 Dec 2016
Singapore
Singapore : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The report provides information on export certificates that the Singapore government requires. The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority is the national authority responsible for ensuring food safety and food regulations in the country.
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15 Dec 2016
Philippines
Philippines : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Philippine government requirements for the importation of food and agricultural products. The report aims to assist U.S. exporters by providing information on labeling, packaging, permitted ingredients, and other relevant information.
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15 Dec 2016
Romania
Romania : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated information on the agriculture and food legislation in Romania. In 2016 new rules in regards to meat and milk labelling, frozen foods, packaging waste management and food waste reduction were adopted. The report should be read in conjunction with the comprehensive FAS USEU European Food & Agricultural Import Regulations (FAIRS) Report.
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14 Dec 2016
Serbia
Serbia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on Serbian regulations and standards concerning food, agriculture, agricultural products and foreign trade. It includes information on labeling, packaging, food additives and import procedures.
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14 Dec 2016
El Salvador
El Salvador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updated Sections: Section I. Food Laws, Section II. Labeling Requirements, VI. Other Regulations and Requirements, VII. Other Specific Standards, IX. Import Procedures and Appendix I. Government Regulatory Agency Contacts
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14 Dec 2016
Ecuador
Ecuador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies Ecuador’s import requirements for foreign export certificates, highlighting current procedures and identifying the relevant local agencies with oversight over these issues. An export certificate matrix and outline is included. This report supplements the FAS Quito Food and Agricultural Import Regulations (FAIRS) 2016 report.
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14 Dec 2016
Pakistan
Pakistan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Pakistan requires a variety of export certifications for imported food and agricultural products. This report lists certificates required by Pakistani government agencies for U.S. products exported to Pakistan.
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14 Dec 2016
Pakistan
Pakistan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements and import procedures for food and agricultural imports into Pakistan. Compared to the previous report released in 2015, section I and V111 has been modified. All imports into Pakistan are governed by the Import Policy Order issued by the Ministry of Commerce.
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14 Dec 2016
Hong Kong
Hong Kong : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updates to the report include new certification requirements for imported shell eggs and pasteurized, liquid and powdered egg products, new nutrition labelling requirements for follow-up formula and prepackaged food for infants and young children, and heightened awareness of Hong Kong’s utilization of the Codex standard for ractopamine residues of 10 ppb in beef products.
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13 Dec 2016
Indonesia
Indonesia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Indonesia’s Ministry of Agriculture published regulation 55/2016 on Food Safety Controls for the Importation of Fresh Foods of Plant Origin (FFPO) on November 18, 2016. The new regulation revises import procedures for FFPO products, but does not appear to have significant implications for U.S. FFPO exports to Indonesia.
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12 Dec 2016
Hong Kong
Hong Kong : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the certificates required by the Hong Kong government (HKG) for U.S. exports to Hong Kong. Certificate samples for various product categories are included in the appendix.
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12 Dec 2016
Australia
Australia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the major export certificates and other documentation required by the Government of Australia for U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products. Australia’s import requirements for food and agricultural products are complex and change frequently
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07 Dec 2016
Spain
Spain : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Spain is a member of the European Union (EU) and it follows EU directives and regulations. This report is an update of SP1530 and outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Spain, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation. This report should be read in conjunction with the EU-28 Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Report.
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06 Dec 2016
Ukraine
Ukraine : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
There have been significant changes affecting agricultural product quality, safety, and sanitary regulations since the submission of the last report. In 2015-16, Ukraine deregulated some food safety import procedures and significantly modified its food safety legislation, introducing HACCP principles. Ukraine also introduced new international certificate requirements for food products and reinforced its legislation related to the approval of foreign exporting facilities.
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02 Dec 2016
Mexico
Mexico : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides the latest information on export certificates issued by US government agencies, to comply with Mexican import standards and regulations or to attest that the corresponding agricultural and food products are subject to U.S. regulation. Minor modifications and comments have been added in section II to reflect updates from the Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) and Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). At the time of this report, USDA and the Mexican Secretariat of Agriculture maintain working groups to achieve full implementation of electronic certificates.
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22 Nov 2016
Belgium
Belgium : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Exporters shipping whey protein food supplements to the EU should be aware that EU Importing Countries’ Inspectors at EU Border Inspection Posts (BIPs) will check if the consignment is shipped with certification and labeling conform with European Union requirements. This report provides guides exporters through the requirements.
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22 Nov 2016
Taiwan
Taiwan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) requires all packages of food grade dairy powder products that are over 10 kilograms in weight to be labeled as “food grade” or “for human consumption.” Shipments of packages not containing such statements may be rejected at port if the importer cannot produce documentation verifying the products are fit for human consumption.
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22 Nov 2016
Germany
Germany : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Germany as part of the European Community has implemented EU regulations for the import of products of animal and plant origin. The US export certification requirements for most products destined for the EU have been harmonized. The few products not yet harmonized are subject to German national regulations.
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18 Nov 2016
Malaysia
Malaysia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
There are no significant changes to report from the previous submission
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17 Nov 2016
Austria
Austria : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report covers only specific export certificate requirements by Austria, which are different from EU requirements.
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16 Nov 2016
Malaysia
Malaysia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This is an update to Post’s standing FAIRS report, with a few changes from last year including new regulations regarding alcoholic beverages; distilled dried grain with solubles (DDGSs) and Corn Gluten Meal (CGM) no longer needing phyto certs; and updated address for the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia where trademarks and brand names are registered.
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31 Oct 2016
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The major export certificates required by Saudi Arabia’s regulatory and import control agencies are included in this Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) - Certificates Report. These certificates are required for the importation of food and agricultural products into the Kingdom. This report includes the new required certification for exports of U.S. beef and veal to Saudi Arabia.
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25 Oct 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
India published its draft Regulation on new product approval procedures and notified them to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Comments are invited from the WTO member countries until December 16, 2016.
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24 Oct 2016
Australia
Australia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All foods sold in Australia must comply with a range of laws designed to protect public health and safety, to ensure plant and animal pests and diseases are not introduced, and to assist consumers. These laws apply equally to imported and locally produced foods.
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17 Oct 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published new draft regulations relating to standards for fortified food products. The GOI is currently seeking comments from the World Trade Organization (WTO) member countries. The comment period for trading partners will be 60 days following WTO notification on its website (www.wto.org).
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27 Sep 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative Exporter Guide
On September 20, 2016, the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India’s (FSSAI) invited comments on a draft notification pertaining to Food Business Operators (FBO) involved in the e-commerce sector. The draft notification specifies regulatory requirements pertaining to e-commerce FBOs.
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27 Sep 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The following report updates GAIN IN6119 published on September 16, 2016, regarding the Modified Food Import Regulations. The earlier report notes in point (k) information applicable specifically to duty free shops. However, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has since deleted this clause from its website.
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23 Sep 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published frequently asked questions (FAQs) on the food licensing and registration systems (FLRS).
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23 Sep 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India (GOI) notified to the World Trade Organization (WTO) a draft amendment to adopt 46 standards of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The comment period for trading partners expires on November 19, 2016.
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16 Sep 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On September 2, 2016, the Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) modified its food import regulations. The updated food import regulation supersedes the food import regulations that were made operational on January 14, 2016.
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09 Sep 2016
Vietnam Social Republic
Vietnam : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides a summary and an unofficial translation of Circular 26/2016/TT-BNNPTNT dated June 30, 2016, of Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) which stipulates on the quarantine of aquatic animals and aquatic animal products. This Circular renews regulations for the quarantine of aquatic animals and aquatic animal products in accordance with the Animal Health Law which came into force on July 1, 2016. This Circular replaces Circular 06/2010/TT-BNNPTNT (issued in 2010) and other relevant regulations and took effect from August 15, 2016.
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06 Sep 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The final amendment on standards and labeling for irradiated foods was published in the Official Gazette of India. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) notes that the final amendment includes feedback from public comments received during the comment period on the draft regulations, which were earlier published on November 23, 2015.
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31 Aug 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrativ
On August 22, 2016, the Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) updated standards for proprietary food. These updated standards supersede the proprietary food standards that were made operational on January 13, 2016.
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31 Aug 2016
Russia
Russia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an overview of general legal and technical requirements imposed by the Russian Federation for food and agricultural imports. The following sections of this report have seen considerable revisions from the 2015 FAIRS report: Section I: General Food Laws, Section V: Labeling Requirements, Section VI: Other Specific Standards, Section VII: Facility and Product Registration Requirements, and Section VIII: Other Certification and Testing Requirements.
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22 Aug 2016
Russia
Russian : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report highlights export certification requirements for Russia. Please note that certification requirements have and will continue to undergo changes as Russia reforms its regulations to meet Eurasian Economic Union and WTO commitments. Exporters are advised to verify export certification requirements with their importer before shipment.
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16 Aug 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) postponed the compliance date for maximum limits of trans fatty acid levels until February 27, 2017.
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12 Aug 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On August 9, 2016, the Government of India’s (GOIs) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued new guidelines to modify its earlier guidelines dated March 23, 2012, on the labeling requirements for imported primary food packages
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08 Aug 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On July 25, 2016, the Government of India’s (GOIs) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published notifications to amend the Food Products Standards and Packaging and Labeling Regulations, 2011. The amendments are specific to fatty acids, dietary fiber, packaging, and labeling related to plant sterols, isomaltulose, and high-fiber dextrin in various food products.
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08 Aug 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
India notified its new standards on ‘cereal and cereal products’ to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and invited comments. The comment period for trading partners expires 60 days beyond the notification date listed on the WTO website (www.wto.org).
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01 Aug 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) has launched its Single Window Interface for Facilitating Trade (SWIFT) system. This is a GOI initiative to speed up clearances for inbound consignments and to improve India’s ‘ease of doing business.
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14 Jul 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published a draft amendment relating to adoption of 46 Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for food additives. The GOI will accept comments from the World Trade Organization (WTO) trading partners for 60 days beyond the notification date as listed on the WTO’s website (www.wto.org).
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14 Jul 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
India notified its draft regulations relating to fats, oils, oats and pasta products to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and invited comments. The comment period for trading partners expires on August 12, 2016.
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01 Jul 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On June 29, 2016, FSSAI invited comments on a draft notification related to additional additives/enzymes/processing aids for use in alcoholic beverages including alcohol free and low alcoholic counterparts and for non-carbonated water based beverages (non-alcoholic). The comment period is 30 days from date of notification.
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27 Jun 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued an order that repeals the earlier clause on duty-free shops from the 2016 Food Import Regulations. The order states that duty-free shops would be outside the domain of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and its Regulations.
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22 Jun 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published its comprehensive list of 11,000 food additives used in various food categories. The new document was prepared on the basis of comments received from various stakeholders. However, the final notification of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Amendment Regulation, 2016 remains pending
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03 Jun 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued an order on May 30, 2016, to postpone the timeline for converting or renewing existing Food Business Operator (FBOs) licenses and registrations. The order postpones the previous deadline of May 4, 2016, to August 4, 2016 and clearly states that no further extensions will be granted to stakeholders. This most recent extension is the eighth consecutive extension granted by FSSAI.
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19 May 2016
Spain
Spain : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report only focuses on Spanish specific certification requirements when they differ or are additional to EU-harmonized certification. This report should be read in conjunction with the EU-28 FAIRS Export Certificate report prepared by the FAS Office in the U.S. Mission to the European Commission (USEU).
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18 May 2016
France
France : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
France is a member of the European Union (EU) and generally follows EU directives and regulations, including those relating to the importation of food products. This report provides an overview of food laws in force in France that cover areas which are not yet harmonized. This report also provides contact information and technical reference materials for exporters of U.S. foods to France.
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17 May 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
India notified its revised draft standards for chocolates to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and invited comments. The comment period for trading partners expires 60 days beyond the notification date as listed on the WTO’s website (www.wto.org).
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11 Apr 2016
Turkey
Turkey : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the major export certificates and other requirements expected by the Government of Turkey (GOT) for exports of food and agricultural products. This report should be read in coordination with the Food and Agriculture Import Regulations and Standards Report Narrative, which outlines specific requirements for food and agricultural products imports into Turkey. It was prepared by the Office of the U.S. Foreign Agricultural Service in Ankara, Turkey for U.S. exporters of domestic food and agricultural products.
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05 Apr 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published a notification order regarding enforcement measures for nutraceuticals, food supplements, and health supplements.
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05 Apr 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued an order dated March 31, 2016, to clarify on the use of monosodium glutamate (MSG) as a seasoning in noodles and pasta.
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29 Mar 2016
Indonesia
Indonesia : Indonesia Modifies Import Regulations for Livestock Products
Indonesia’s Ministry of Trade has updated its regulation on import licensing for animals and animal products. MOT regulation 5/2016 replaces MOT 41/2015 and 46/2013, aligning Ministry of Trade regulations with the most recent Ministry of Agriculture regulation on meat imports. Import rules remain mostly unchanged, although import permit validity is extended from three to four months. The regulation also lists beef cuts eligible for import.
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16 Mar 2016
India
India : FSSAI Invites Comments Related to Oats and Pasta Products
India notified its new standards for oats and revised description for pasta products to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and invited comments. The comment period for trading partners expires 60 days beyond the notification date listed on the WTO’s website (www.wto.org).
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02 Mar 2016
Peru
India : Pre-Arrival Document Scrutiny in the Food Import Clearance System
Effective February 2, 2016, the Government of India’s (GOI), Food Safety and Standards Authority of India implemented its new web portal-based Pre-Arrival Document Scrutiny (PADS) system for the clearance of food imports.
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01 Mar 2016
South Africa
South Africa : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This is the first FAIRS - Certification Report for South Africa. The report lists major certificates and permits required to export food and agricultural products to South Africa. It is recommended that this report be read with the FAIRS – Narrative Report (Click here to download the 2015 report) for a much more comprehensive understanding of the South African regulations and standards.
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26 Feb 2016
India
India : WTO Deadline for Comments on 2016 Food Import Regulations
As previously reported in GAIN report IN6027, India notified its 2016 Food Import Regulations to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and invited comments. The comment period for trading partners, as listed on the WTO website (www.wto.org), expires on April 15, 2016
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18 Feb 2016
India
India : 3 month Extension of Timeline to Obtain FSSAI Food Business Licenses
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued an order on February 9, 2016, to postpone the deadline for converting or renewing existing Food Business Operator (FBOs) licenses and registrations. The order postpones the previous deadline of February 4, 2016, to May 4, 2016.
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18 Feb 2016
India
India : GOI Invites Comments from WTO TBT Members on Food Import Regulations
India notified its 2016 Food Import Regulations to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and invited comments. The comment period for trading partners expires 60 days beyond the notification date as listed on the WTO’s website (www.wto.org).
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12 Feb 2016
Venezuela
Venezuela : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies the different export certification requirements currently in place by product. The Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela (GBRV) is responsible, through its different Ministries, for issuing import permits, import licenses and conducting processed food product registrations. Post updates only minor changes in this report.
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11 Feb 2016
Netherland
Netherlands : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an addendum to the EU FAIRS Report – E15051. The Netherlands, as a member of the European Union (EU), conforms to all EU regulations and directives. It was estimated in 2012 that around 98 percent of Dutch food legislation has been harmonized at the EU level. This report lists the import regulations and standards that are not harmonized with the EU or where the Netherlands varies with the EU standards.
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10 Feb 2016
Argentina
Argentina : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides overall information on regulations and standards for importing U.S. food and beverages into Argentina. However, Post recommends U.S. suppliers interested in the Argentine market to contact local importers to find out about specific rules and regulations that may apply to particular products.
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05 Feb 2016
Vietnam Social Republic
Vietnam : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides a summary and an unofficial translation of Decree 9/2016/ND-CP dated January 28, 2016 of the Government of Vietnam (GVN) stipulating the fortification of micronutrients in food. This Decree enters into force on March 15, 2016.
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02 Feb 2016
Vietnam Social Republic
Vietnam : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On December 21, 2015, the Ministry of Health (MOH) issued Circular 52/2015/TT-BYT stipulating state inspection of food safety in respect to imported and exported food products under the management scope of MOH. This Circular is MOH’s new regulation to revise the methods of food safety inspection in order to comply with Vietnam’s Food Safety Law. This Circular replaces MOH’s Decision 23/2007/QD-BYT and takes effect on February 23, 2016.
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02 Feb 2016
Tanzania Republic
Tanzania : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report updates import requirements and regulations for food and agricultural products currently required by the Government of Tanzania. The report includes the regulations against which Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA) evaluates U.S exports to Tanzania, labelling and packaging requirements and import procedures.
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30 Jan 2016
Honduras
Honduras : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Secretariat of Agriculture and Livestock (SAG), National Plant and Animal Health Service (SENASA), is the regulatory agency responsible for the inspection of all agricultural products that enter Honduras. The Secretariat of Health (MOH) has the General Directorate of Surveillance of the Health Normative Framework (DGVMN) as the responsible agency for the sanitary registration and inspection of processed food products at the retail and wholesale levels.
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29 Jan 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
India notified its new standards for proprietary food to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and invited comments. The comment period for trading partners expires one month from the date it is notified on WTO website (www.wto.org).
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29 Jan 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On January 14, 2016, the Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published the Food Import Regulations, 2016. FSSAI implemented these new regulations immediately upon publication.
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25 Jan 2016
Guatemala
Guatemala : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On November 6, 2015, the Guatemalan Ministry of Health and Social Assistance published Ministerial Decree 196-2015, which eliminated the extraordinary requirement of Guatemalan consulate verification on the Certificate of Free Sale for processed food products registration.
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25 Jan 2016
Germany
Germany : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Germany is a member of the European Union (EU) and generally follows EU directives and regulations, including those relating to the importation of food products. This report provides an overview of food laws in force in Germany that cover areas which are not yet harmonized. Food laws currently in force in the EU-28 are summarized in the EU 28 FAIRS report.
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24 Jan 2016
Korea Republic
Korea : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
On November 19, 2015, Korea lifted the import ban on poultry and poultry meat products that had been imposed in December 2014 due to the outbreak of HPAI. To reflect changes made in the revised import health requirements, FSIS Form 9305-2A for fresh and frozen poultry products has been revised and FSIS Form 9305-2B has been created for heat treated poultry meat products.
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23 Jan 2016
Czech Republic
Czech Republic : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Czech Republic has implemented all EU regulations regarding required export certifications. For information on EU export certifications, please see the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Certification Report number E14005 prepared by USEU Brussels.
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22 Jan 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On December 23, 2015, the Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published an interim order to immediately implement updated draft standards of food additives. These standards are in addition to the provisions under Regulation 3.1 of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulation, 2011.
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20 Jan 2016
Vietnam Social Republic
Vietnam : MOH issues the List of Micronutrients allowed to be added to food
This report provides a summary and an unofficial translation of the Circular 44/2015/TT-BYT of the Ministry of Health (MOH) dated November 30, 2015 promulgating the List of micronutrients allowed to be used for food products. This Circular will take effect from March 1, 2016.
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19 Jan 2016
Bulgaria
Bulgaria : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Bulgaria, a member of the European Union (EU) since 2007, follows all EU directives and regulations. This report is an update of BU1364 and outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Bulgaria, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation. This report should be read in conjunction with the GAIN report E15051 Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards for the EU.
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14 Jan 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On January 4, 2016, India notified its draft regulations to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The draft amendments relate to standards for malt and malt based foods as proposed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The trading partner comment period deadline is March 4, 2016.
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14 Jan 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On January 4, 2016, India notified a draft regulation related to microbiological standards for fish and fish products to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The comment period for trading partners expires on March 4, 2016.
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13 Jan 2016
Malaysia
Malaysia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This is an update to Post’s Standing FAIRS Export Certificate report. No significant changes to report from the previous submission.
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12 Jan 2016
Costa Rica
Costa Rica : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Costa Rica’s requirements for food and agricultural product imports. Most sections of the report have been updated and hyperlinks for relevant regulatory agencies and regulations have been provided throughout the report.
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11 Jan 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Throughout calendar year 2015, the Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued multiple final and draft amendments related to food additive and standards, contaminants and toxins, and labeling and packaging regulations. The Ministry of Agriculture also issued final health certificates for pork and pork products, bovine frozen semen, in vivo bovine embryos and live bovines.
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11 Jan 2016
Brazil
Brazil : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements for food and agricultural product imports into Brazil, including import procedures. Changes in 2015 include mandatory allergen labeling and less burdensome registration requirements for many products.
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11 Jan 2016
India
India : Indian Food and Agricultural Trade Show Calendar 2016
This report provides a list of food, beverage and agricultural shows held in India. The Indian trade show industry holds a large number of shows dedicated to the various aspects of the food and agricultural industry. Indian ag, fishery, and forestry imports and exports in 2014 were, respectively $25 billion and $43 billion.
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11 Jan 2016
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
In CY 2015, the Ministry of Health continued to amend its Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011, from time to time related to food safety, labeling and packaging of imported products. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture published (a) final health certificate for pork and pork products; bovine frozen semen, in vivo bovine embryos and live bovines and (b) proposal on phytosanitary requirements for the import of hay from the United States.
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11 Jan 2016
Australia
Australia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides guidance on export certificate requirements for a representative sample of products that have been identified as having excellent prospects in the Australian market. The information required to import into Australia is complex and changes frequently. It is therefore not possible to provide comprehensive information for every product in this report.
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07 Jan 2016
France
France : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
France is a member of the European Union (EU) and generally follows EU directives and regulations, including those relating to the importation of food products. This report provides an overview of food laws in force in France that cover areas which are not yet harmonized. This report also provides contact information and technical reference materials for exporters of U.S. foods to France.
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06 Jan 2016
Mexico
Mexico : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report highlights changes made to various laws and norms published during 2015. Mexican regulations mentioned remain the same unless otherwise noted.
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05 Jan 2016
Kenya
Kenya : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report compliments the FAIRS Country Report, and updates on certificates that are required by the Government of Kenya (GOK) to export food and agricultural products into Kenya. GOK has implemented the Kenya TradeNet System that provides a single point for importers and exporters to electronically submit and receive approvals from all the regulatory agencies that are involved in international trade, and is linked to the banking system for payments.
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05 Jan 2016
Ghana
Ghana : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report was updated December 7, 2015 and the areas updated are: Section II. Labeling Requirements were updated as indicated in the FDA Guidelines for the labeling of Pre-Packaged Foods.
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05 Jan 2016
Kenya
Kenya : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report updates technical import requirements and regulations for food and agricultural products currently required by the Government of Kenya (GOK). The report incorporates the new requirement for pre-export verification of conformity of all imported products, the centralization of issuance of the new Import Standardization Mark (ISM) by Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), and updates contact details of key agencies.
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31 Dec 2015
Tunisia
Tunisia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Tunisia as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports. Sections I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VIII, IX and the Appendix have all been updated.
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31 Dec 2015
Singapore
Singapore : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides information on the what export certificates the Singapore government requires. The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA; www.ava.gov.sg) is the national authority responsible for ensuring food safety and food regulations in the country. While Singapore maintains a generally liberal and open trade system, the country has strict regulations on the imports of meats, poultry and shellfish.
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31 Dec 2015
Morocco
Morocco : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Morocco as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports. Sections I, II, VI, VII, and the Appendix have all been updated.
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31 Dec 2015
Italy
Italy : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Italy as part of the European Community has implemented EU regulations for the import of products of animal and plant origin. The US export certification requirements for most products destined for the EU have been harmonized. The few products not yet harmonized are subject to Italian national regulations.
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31 Dec 2015
China P rp
China : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Chinese government for imports of food and agricultural products. This year’s major changes include the implementation of China’s 2015 Food Safety Law, and slight revisions to the Catalogue of Products under Decree 145. In addition, beginning January 12, 2015, China banned the importation of all poultry and pet birds from the entire United States. Changes regarding certificate requirements remain minimal.
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31 Dec 2015
Panama Republic
Panama : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The U.S-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA) entered into force on October 31, 2012. As a result of the U.S.-Panama SPS/TBT agreement, which is an integral part of the TPA according to article 22.1, Panama issued special regulations that apply to imports of food and feed products from the United States, which recognize the high standards and certificates of the U.S. regulatory and sanitary inspection system.
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30 Dec 2015
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report highlights export certification requirements for Kazakhstan. Please note that certification requirements have and will continue to undergo changes as Kazakhstan reforms its regulations to meet Customs Union (CU), Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and WTO commitments. Exporters are advised to verify export certification requirements with their importer before shipment.
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30 Dec 2015
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an overview of the general legal and technical requirements for food and agricultural imports imposed by the Republic of Kazakhstan
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30 Dec 2015
China P rp
China : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Narrative FAIRS Country Report
During 2015, on the backdrop of continuous food scandals and rising consumer concerns, Chinese food regulators continued the onerous task of regaining consumer’s trust by revamping China’s Food Safety Regime. Over the past two years, China has reviewed and issued thousands of new food safety and hygiene standards. Most notably, China’s 2015 Food Safety Law came into effect on October 1. In addition to specific implementing rules, a series of regulations, rules, and measures will be issued to carry out the provisions of the Law.
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29 Dec 2015
Greece
Greece : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated contact information for Greece and gives an overview of Greek food laws in the EU context. Information on the EU requirements can be found in the FAIRS reports prepared by the Offices of Agricultural Affairs in the individual EU Member States:
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29 Dec 2015
Jordan
Jordan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Narrative
Jordan has implemented a new food law that will consolidate inspection to the Jordan Food and Drug Administration. The regulation updates are expected to be finalized within two years.
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29 Dec 2015
Thailand
Thailand : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report includes an update of Section 2.8, pertaining to food additive labeling. Other minor changes have been made to this report including: additional list of pesticides under Type 4 hazardous substances (Section 5); specific import control on beef and beef products from BSE-affected countries (Section 6.6); specific import controls on pork meat (Section 6.7); Specific Import Control on Fruits and Vegetables (Section 6.9), and alcohol beverage labeling (Section 7.2).
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29 Dec 2015
Jordan
Jordan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The report lists and describes certificates that should accompany food and agricultural products to Jordan. It also includes the purpose of each certificate and the government agency responsible. In general, an original invoice, bill of lading, health certificate, and certificate of origin are required to accompany any shipment. An export certificate matrix is included in this report.
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29 Dec 2015
Serbia
Serbia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on Serbian regulations and standards concerning food, agriculture, agricultural products and foreign trade. It includes information on labeling, packaging, food additives and import procedures. In 2015, Serbia adopted two new laws (The Law on Forests and the Law on Strong Alcoholic Beverages) and approximately fifty by-laws that include rulebooks and ordinances. The contact lists, including relevant government agencies, have also been updated.
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29 Dec 2015
Greece
Greece : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Greece as a member of the European Union follows the EU directives and regulations. The export certification requirements for most products destined for the EU market have been harmonized and can be found in the FAIRS reports prepared by the Offices of Agricultural Affairs in the individual EU Member States: http://www.usda-eu.org/trade-with-the-eu/eu-import-rules/certification/fairs-export-certificate-report/. For non-harmonized products, the competent Greek authority should be consulted as many issues are addressed on a case-by-case basis.
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29 Dec 2015
Serbia
Serbia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides guidance on the certificate requirements for agricultural and food products imported into the Serbian market and includes the certificates that are standardized between the Serbian Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection and the relevant US authorities (USDA/APHIS, USDA/FSIS, USDA/AMS, and FDA). In 2015, Serbia’s Veterinary Directorate officially recognized the United States as “negligible risk” for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and removed many of the BSE-related restrictions on imports or the transit of U.S. animal origin products and live animals.
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29 Dec 2015
Lithuania
Lithuania : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Report Sections updated: All sections were updated. The EU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report for EU-28, prepared by the US Mission to the EU in Brussels should be reviewed in conjunction with this report.
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28 Dec 2015
Romania
Romania: Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated information on the agricultural and food legislation in Romania. The report should be read in conjunction with the comprehensive FAS USEU European Food & Agricultural Import Regulations (FAIRS) Report.
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28 Dec 2015
El Salvador
El Salvador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Sections Updated: Section I. List of all Export Certificates Required by Government and Section II. Purpose of Specific Export Certificate (s).
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24 Dec 2015
EU-28
EU-28 : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This guide provides an overview of export health certificates needed for exporting plants, animals, foods and other animal origin products to the European Union. U.S. regulatory agencies have been informed of the wide range of certificates changes that have occurred in the past months and have updated their export manuals to reflect those changes. Sections updated: All sections.
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23 Dec 2015
Poland
Poland : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Poland as a member of the European Union applies EU directives and regulations to agricultural imports with only few exceptions. U.S. suppliers should verify with the respective AMS, FDA, FSIS or APHIS Inspection offices and importer for the most current EU/Poland import requirements prior to export. The EU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report prepared by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels should be consulted simultaneously with this report.
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23 Dec 2015
Belgium
Belgium : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards
This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU, GAIN 15051. This report focuses on the import regulations and standards that are not harmonized in the EU or where Belgium varies.
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23 Dec 2015
Nicaragua
Nicaragua : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report lists the main Nicaraguan food laws, technical regulations and import requirements.
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22 Dec 2015
Chile
Chile : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Since the last Export Certificate report was issued by FAS/Santiago in 2014, Chile has granted access for the following products from the United States: live cattle, bovine embryos, and horses returning after temporary stay in the United States, porcine semen and fresh pork meat. Samples of the new certifications can be found in the appendix.
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22 Dec 2015
Canada
Canada : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The report identifies export certificates issued by U.S. government authorities to comply with Canadian import standards and regulations or to attest that the product is subject to U.S. government regulation. This report serves as a supplement to the Food and Agricultural Importation Regulation Narrative Report (FAIRS/CA15117).
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21 Dec 2015
Russia
Russian Federation : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report highlights export certification requirements for Russia. Please note that certification requirements have and will continue to undergo changes as Russia reforms its regulations to meet Customs Union, Eurasian Economic Union and WTO commitments. Exporters are advised to verify export certification requirements with their importer before shipment.
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21 Dec 2015
Czech Republic
Czech Republic : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative.
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18 Dec 2015
Ukraine
Ukraine : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
There have been significant changes affecting agricultural product quality, safety, and sanitary regulations since the submission of the last report. In 2015, Ukraine deregulated some food safety import procedures and significantly modified its food safety legislation introducing HACCP principles. Ukraine also introduced new international certificate requirements for food products and reinforced its legislation related to the approval of foreign exporting facilities.
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18 Dec 2015
Indonesia
Indonesia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the major export certificates and other requirements expected by the Government of Indonesia (GOI) from U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products.
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18 Dec 2015
United Kingdom
United Kingdom : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is intended to supplement the European Food & Agricultural Import Regulations (FAIRS) Report with UK-specific information. The UK FAIRS provides contact information for the competent authorities that are responsible for the import of animal products, plant products, forestry products, fishery products and general food products into the United Kingdom.
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17 Dec 2015
Peru
Peru : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Peru’s regulatory requirements for food and agricultural product imports and it updates the 2014 FAIRS Country Report’s Section I (General Food Laws and Sanitary Supervisory Agencies), Section V (Labeling Requirements), and Appendix I (Government Regulatory Agency Contacts). Hyperlinks to ministries, agencies, and legal documents are provided throughout.
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16 Dec 2015
Mexico
Mexico :Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report updates information on export certificates issued by US government agencies, to comply with Mexican import standards and regulations or to attest that the corresponding agricultural products are subject to U.S. regulation. Small changes and comments have been added to egg product certification in sections I, II and III to reflect Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) and Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) new information.
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16 Dec 2015
Austria
Austria : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines specific requirements for food and agricultural products imports into Austria. Austria as a member of the European Union follows the EU directives and regulations. It is recommended that this report be read in conjunction with the EU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards.
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16 Dec 2015
Russia
Russian : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an overview of general legal and technical requirements imposed by the Russian Federation for food and agricultural imports. The following sections of this report have seen considerable revisions from the 2014 FAIRS report: Section I: General Food Laws, Section III: Pesticide and Other Contaminants, Section V: Labeling Requirements, Section VII: Facility and Product Registration Requirements, and Section VIII: Other Certification and Testing Requirements.
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16 Dec 2015
Nicaragua
Nicaragua : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists Nicaragua import requirements for export certification and import permits for agrochemicals, veterinary products, feed stuffs and food products for human consumption.
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15 Dec 2015
South Africa
South Africa : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Narrative
All the sections of the Report except sections VIII (Import Procedures) and Section IX (Other Certification and testing requirements) have been updated based on recent regulation amendments and to provide feedback on the amendments published in 2014.
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14 Dec 2015
China P rp
China : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Subject Report
China is in the process of implementing a revised regulatory and registration system for imported feed and feed additives. Under this system, companies need to complete the following three steps before they can export feed ingredients or additives to China: 1) obtain an import registration license from the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), 2) apply for market access with the General Administration for Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ), and 3) have their manufacturing facility be registered by AQSIQ. This process can include an audit, which China requires the exporter to pay for.
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14 Dec 2015
Costa Rica
Costa Rica : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides information on the export certification requirements of the Government of Costa Rica. This report supplements Costa Rica’s Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) 2015 report
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10 Dec 2015
Hungary
Hungary : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Hungary as part of the European Community has implemented EU regulations for the import of products of animal and plant origin. The U.S. export certification requirements for most products destined for the EU have been harmonized. The few products not yet harmonized are subject to Hungarian national regulations.
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10 Dec 2015
Trinidad And Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report outlines Trinidad and Tobago’s (TT) certification requirements and includes an Export Certificate Matrix as well as examples of select Export Certificates. To avoid costly customs clearance delays, it is recommended that U.S. suppliers have their TT buyer verify compliance with all certification requirements prior to shipping new-to-market products. A list of the relevant TT authorities is provided in this report.
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09 Dec 2015
Senegal
Senegal : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an annual update of Senegal’s food and feed regulations and governmental enforcement mechanisms and bodies. It includes references to the Codex Alimentarius system, as well as, guidance on import procedures and documentation. Since 2013, Senegal has not issued new food standards. All standards are available upon request to the Association Senegalaise de Normalisation (ASN).
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09 Dec 2015
Senegal
Senegal : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report is a reissuance of the 2014 FAIRS export certificate report with no additional information. Senegal is a member of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). Since 2014 it has continued to authorize optional use of ePhyto, international standard for electronic transmission protocols and procedures for plant health certification, although it has been not fully implemented in most countries.
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07 Dec 2015
Trinidad And Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
While most U.S. food products readily enter Trinidad and Tobago (TT), consideration for an import license, health certification, product labeling and other documentation for select products must be observed in order to avoid costly customs clearance delays. U.S. suppliers should be aware that port of entry scrutiny can be intense on new-to-market players as well as new-to-market food products until a track record of compliance can be established. To avoid import hiccups, it is recommended that U.S. suppliers have their TT buyer verify compliance with all import requirements prior to shipping new-to-market products. A list of the relevant TT authorities is provided in this report
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07 Dec 2015
Egypt Arab Republic
Egypt : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The report lists and describes certificates that should accompany food and agricultural products to Egypt. It also includes the purpose of each certificate and the governmental agency responsible. In general, an original invoice, bill of lading, packing list, weighing list, health certificate, batch number certificate, certificate of origin, and insurance certificate are required to accompany any shipment. An export certificate matrix is included in this report.
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04 Dec 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) amended the Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, related to the list of food additives covered under Table 1 of Appendix A.
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01 Dec 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) amended the Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, related to the list of food additives covered under Appendix A.
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01 Dec 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) amended the Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Regulations, 2011, related to the presence of naturally occurring toxic substances (NOTS) in some foods and beverages.
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01 Dec 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) amended the Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, to include pullulan as a food additive.
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01 Dec 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) amended the Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Regulations, 2011, to update standards for various food contaminants.
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23 Nov 2015
Ecuador
Ecuador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Ecuador’s requirements for food and agricultural product imports. Hyperlinks to ministries, agencies, and legal documents have been provided throughout this updated report.
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18 Nov 2015
Ukraine
Ukraine : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
One new veterinary certificate was negotiated in 2015: the certificate for breeding cattle. The beef and beef products certificate was updated to include meat from animals of all ages. A broad range of products are covered in the report, and includes certificate requirements for products that have no bilaterally negotiated export conditions. The report contains the Export Certificate Matrix compiled and updated by FAS Kyiv.
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16 Nov 2015
Ecuador
Ecuador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies Ecuador’s import requirements for foreign export certificates, highlighting current procedures and identifying the relevant local agencies with oversight over these issues. An export certificate matrix and outline is included. This report supplements the FAS Quito Food and Agricultural Import Regulations (FAIRS) 2015 report.
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12 Nov 2015
Peru
Peru : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies Peru’s import requirements for foreign export certificates, highlighting current procedures and relevant oversight agencies. An export certificate matrix and outline is included. This report supplements the 2015 Food and Agricultural Import Regulation (FAIRS) Report.
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10 Nov 2015
Bulgaria
Bulgaria : New Regulation on Food and Drinks for Institutions
A new Ministry of Agriculture and Food regulation on supply of food and drinks to children at kindergartens, schools and other institutions hosting children was published in early November. The regulation introduces stringent requirements to food and drinks consumed or sold at these institutions and mandatory supply of dairy and meat products produced in compliance with the Bulgarian government standards. This is estimated to lead to an advantaged market position for some food manufacturers and to limit consumption of imported products even if they are “healthy”.
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10 Nov 2015
Croatia
Croatia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides information on the export certificates required by the Government of Croatia. This annual report was updated in November 2015.
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09 Nov 2015
Croatia
Croatia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on the food and agricultural product import requirements for Croatia. Croatia, as a member of the European Union, follows the EU directives and regulations. Thus, it is recommended that this report be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards report for the European Union (EU-28 FAIRS). Important points of contact for US food exporters are listed in the Appendices. All sections of this annual report were updated in November 2015.
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09 Nov 2015
Australia
Australia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Australia is a major producer of raw materials and processed foods but imports a growing volume of food and beverages. All foods sold in Australia must comply with a range of laws designed to protect public health and safety, to ensure plant and animal pests and diseases are not introduced, and to assist consumers. These laws apply equally to imported and locally produced foods. The information contained in this report deals with both public health and quarantine requirements for foods imported into Australia. All imported food must first comply with quarantine and imported food requirements and then with food safety requirements.
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09 Nov 2015
Chile
Chile : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On June 26, 2015, the Ministry of Health published in the Official Gazette the new regulation for the Nutritional Labeling of Food. The final decree requires, among other things, a label (or labels) on the front of prepackaged food and beverages, in the shape of a stop sign if the item exceeds certain thresholds for saturated fat, calories, sugar, and sodium. One label will be required for each nutrient that exceeds the threshold. Therefore, one product could bear up to four labels covering anywhere from 18 to 42 percent of the package face.
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02 Nov 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On October 23, 2015, the Government of India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published draft Alcoholic Beverages Standards. Domestic stakeholders have been invited to comment on these draft standards. The same draft standards were re-published on October 29, 2015, with comments invited by WTO members.
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29 Oct 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On October 13, 2015, the Government of India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) re-published the Draft Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2015 (FSSR, 2015) relating to the harmonization of standards for food additives for use in certain food categories or individual food items. According to official contacts, domestic stakeholders, including international stakeholders that have offices in India, are only invited to comment on these draft standards. The deadline for comments is December 13, 2015.
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27 Oct 2015
Vietnam Social Republic
Vietnam : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides an overview of the food laws and regulations currently in force in Vietnam. All sections are updated as Vietnam has issued the Law on Food Safety in 2010 and is in the process of modernizing the regulation system for food safety.
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26 Oct 2015
Vietnam Social Republic
Vietnam : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides an overview of the health and quarantine certificates needed for exporting food and agricultural products to Vietnam. It should be noted that the Vietnamese Ministry of Health (MOH) is preparing a draft circular on the state inspection regulation of imported food under MOH management which may change some aspects of the documentation requirements for food under MOH management. This draft was notified to the World Trade Organization as G/SPS/N/VNM/69 on July 2, 2015.
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22 Oct 2015
El Salvador
El Salvador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Review of El Salvador’s Food and Agriculture Import Regulations and Standards. Updated Sections: Section I. Food Laws, Section II. Labeling Requirements, VI. Other Regulations and Requirements, VII. Other Specific Standards, IX. Import Procedures and Appendix I. Government Regulatory Agency Contacts.
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20 Oct 2015
Austria
Austria : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report covers only specific export certificate requirements by Austria, which are different from EU requirements.
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13 Oct 2015
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This FAIRS Certificates Report lists major export certificates required by Saudi Arabia’s regulatory and import control agencies for the importation of food and agricultural products into the Kingdom. In 2015, Saudi Arabia’s regulatory authorities continued its strict implementation of food import regulations and standards which have affected the flow of some U.S. food products exports to the Kingdom. The strict enforcement of import regulations included a ban on using unsubstantiated health benefits claims on the labels of prepackaged food products, a ban on poultry and egg product exports from U.S. states that have confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and a continued Saudi import ban on U.S. beef that was imposed in May 2012.
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08 Oct 2015
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
In 2015, Saudi Arabia’s regulatory authorities continued to strictly enforce their food import regulations and standards which have affected the flow of some U.S. food exports to the Kingdom. The strict enforcement of import regulations included a ban on the use of unsubstantiated claim of health benefits on food products’ labels; a ban on poultry and egg product exports from several U.S. states that have confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI); and a continued import ban on U.S. beef imposed in May 2012. The FAIRS Country Report contains an update of Saudi Arabia’s regulatory requirements and Customs clearance procedures for importing food and agricultural products into the Saudi market.
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05 Oct 2015
Spain
Spain : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Spain is a member of the European Union (EU) and it follows EU directives and regulations. This report is an update of SP1431 and outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Spain, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation. This report should be read in conjunction with the EU-28 Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Report. Updates of the information provided are also available in the USEU/FAS website www.usda-eu.org.
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01 Oct 2015
Morocco
Morocco : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides an update of the list of certificates required to export U.S. food and agricultural products to Morocco. In 2011, the Moroccan food safety authority, Office National de Sécurité Sanitaire des Produits Alimentaires (ONSSA) issued new import requirements for dairy products, hides, skins, pet food, feed additives, and honey, and the import certificates for these products are still under discussion with USDA. Sections I, II, VI, VII, and the appendix have all been updated.
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17 Aug 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued an order dated August 11, 2015 (posted on FSSAI’s website August 13), for compliance with its labeling requirements for printed logos and license numbers on packaged foodstuffs. The order postpones the previously issued July 1, 2015, deadline to December 31, 2015.
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12 Aug 2015
Hong Kong
Hong Kong : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
U.S. egg products, including shell eggs, powdered and liquid egg products, will be required to have a health certificate for export to Hong Kong effective December 5, 2015. The U.S. and the Hong Kong government are still working on the attestations on the health certificates.
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11 Aug 2015
Hong Kong
Hong Kong : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updates include pending legislation to require mandatory certification for imported shell eggs and pasteurized, liquid and powdered egg products (as of December 5, 2015), to impose regulatory controls on claims on infant formulas and foods and to strengthen regulation of the production and supply of edible fats and oils.
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29 Jul 2015
Germany
Germany: Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Germany as part of the European Community has implemented EU regulations for the import of products of animal and plant origin. The US export certification requirements for most products destined for the EU have been harmonized. The few products not yet harmonized are subject to German national regulations.
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27 Jul 2015
India
India :Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Amendment Regulations, 2015 relating to food additives.
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27 Jul 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Government of India’s (GOI) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published new draft regulations for food or health supplements, nutraceuticals, foods for special dietary uses, foods for special medical purpose, functional foods and novel food. The GOI is currently seeking comments from the World Trade Organization (WTO) – Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) member countries. The deadline for the comments is September 23, 2015.
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26 Jun 2015
Chile
Chile: Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Ministry of Health published on June 26, 2015 the implementing regulation to Law 20606 that regulates the labeling of the nutritional compositions of food products, Decree 13, 2015. The Decree aims at targeting food product that are intended for consumption by children under 14 years of age if they exceed specified limits of sodium, sugar, energy (calories) and saturated fats.
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12 Jun 2015
Ethiopia
Ethiopia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Ethiopia’s food safety regime is in the process of transitioning to become a more modern and effective system. The regulatory infrastructure has been put in place along with the supporting institutions to manage and set standards related to food safety, and plant and animal health. The capacity of these institutions is gradually expanding with outside support. This report discusses the regulatory requirements and standards that must be met in order to ship food and agricultural products to Ethiopia.
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19 May 2015
Spain
Spain : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - CertificationFood and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report only focuses on Spanish specific certification requirements when they differ or are additional to EU-harmonized certification. This report should be read in conjunction with the EU-28 FAIRS Export Certificate report prepared by the FAS Office in the U.S. Mission to the European Commission (USEU).
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13 Apr 2015
Luxembourg
Luxembourg : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) – Country Report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU, GAIN E14065. The report focuses on the import regulations and standards that are not harmonized in the EU or where Belgium varies. For updates of the information provided in this report check the USEU/FAS website www.usda-eu.org.
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13 Mar 2015
Netherland
Netherlands : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) – Country Report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU, GAIN E14065. The report focuses on the import regulations and standards that are not harmonized in the EU or where the Netherlands varies. For updates of the information provided in this report check the USEU/FAS website www.usda-eu.org.
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24 Feb 2015
Lithuania
Lithuania : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Report Sections updated: All sections were updated. The EU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report for EU-28, prepared by the US Mission to the EU in Brussels should be reviewed in conjunction with this report. Since accession into the European Union Lithuania has modified national laws and brought food and agricultural regulations and standards into full concordance with EU regulations and standards. Internet links identified in this report are intended to Piotr Rucinski, Mira Kobuszynska, Agricultural Specialists, and Jolanta Figurska, Marketing Specialist Russ Nicely, Agricultural Attaché FAIRS Country Report Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative Lithuania 2/24/2015 Required Report - public distribution provide the reader direction to the basis of EU law, regulation, or standard to which Lithuania now defaults. Please work with your importer/buyer to ensure current requirements are met.
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24 Feb 2015
Lithuania
Lithuania : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Certification
Lithuania as a member of the European Union, applies EU regulatory requirements for import of products of animal or plant origin. The EU has harmonized export certification requirements for most products. The EU requires products be accompanied by a sanitary-phytosanitary certificate at port of arrival. This report should be read in conjunction with the EU-27 FAIRS Export Certificate Report - 2014, the latest update at time of this submission.
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17 Feb 2015
Turkey
Turkey : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines specific requirements for food and agricultural products imports into Turkey. It was prepared by the Office of the US Foreign Agricultural Service in Ankara, Turkey for U.S. exporters of domestic food and agricultural products. While every possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since its preparation, or because clear and consistent information about these policies was not available. It is highly recommended that U.S. exporters verify the full set of import requirements with their foreign customers, who are normally best equipped to research such matters with local authorities, before any goods are shipped.
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05 Feb 2015
Honduras
Honduras : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Honduran Government changed the name of the Sanitary Regulation Directorate (SRD) to the “General Directorate of Surveillance of the Health Normative Framework (DGVMN).” The National Plant and Animal Health Service (SENASA) modified its Quarantine Procedures Manual. The new Manual indicates that when a non-quarantine pest is found alive or dead, the quarantine treatment will not be applied. The modification saves importers time and money that would have been used on the treatment.
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04 Feb 2015
Honduras
Honduras : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Secretariat of Agriculture and Livestock (SAG) has the National Plant and Animal Health Service (SENASA) as the main regulatory agency responsible for the inspection of all agricultural products that enter Honduras. The Secretariat of Health (MOH) has the General Directorate of Surveillance of the Health Normative Framework (DGVMN) as the responsible agency for the sanitary registration and inspection of processed food products at the retail and wholesale levels. The Certificates requested by SENASA and the DGVMN are described in the report.
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30 Jan 2015
Germany
Germany : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Germany is a member of the European Union (EU) and generally follows EU directives and regulations, including those relating to the importation of food products. This report provides an overview of food laws in force in Germany that cover areas which are not yet harmonized. Food laws currently in force in the EU-28 are summarized in the EU 28 FAIRS report.
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30 Jan 2015
United Kingdom
United Kingdom : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is intended to supplement the European Food & Agricultural Import Regulations (FAIRS) Report with UK-specific information. The UK FAIRS provides contact information for the competent authorities that are responsible for the import of animal products, plant products, forestry products, fishery products and general food products into the United Kingdom. In addition, this report has handy links to guidance on health certificates, licenses, import duty, food labeling, additives and packaging. All sections of this report were updated.
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20 Jan 2015
Costa Rica
Costa Rica : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updated on 12/17/2014. Sections updated: Section I. Food Laws. Appendix I. Government Regulatory Agency Contacts.
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15 Jan 2015
Mexico
Mexico : Grain and Feed Update
Favorable weather conditions throughout Mexico’s crop producing regions have resulted in higher production expectations in marketing year (MY) 2014/15 for corn and rice. On the other hand, less area was planted to sorghum than initially expected in several Mexican states during the 2014 spring/summer crop cycle. The Post/New MY 2014/15 (January/December) dry beans production estimated has been revised slightly downward to 1.15 MMT based on updated information from official and private sources. No changes reported for wheat since last report (GAIN Report MX4073).
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15 Jan 2015
Thailand
Thailand : Weekly Rice Price Update
TH5003. Export prices for most grades of rice are basically unchanged from the previous week except for fragrant rice.
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15 Jan 2015
Korea Republic
Korea - Republic of : Grain and Feed Update
The United States won contracts totaling 60,067 MT (milled) of rice, worth $62 million, under the 2014 Minimum Market Access agreement. The U.S. share of 15 percent of the MMA represents only half of the previous year’s share due to higher prices caused by drought conditions in California.
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05 Jan 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, was implemented in 2011, and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) undertook to harmonize food safety regulations with Codex Alimentarius. Multiple amendments to food safety, labeling and packaging regulations were published, as were new draft guidelines on labeling of imported products. Revised guidelines for trade in bovine germplasm and draft health certificates for imported bovine semen and embryos were issued.
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02 Jan 2015
Ukraine
Ukraine : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
There have been some changes affecting agricultural product quality, safety, and sanitary regulations since the submission of the last report. In 2014, Ukraine canceled import permits for products of animal origin and feed. Ukraine significantly modified its internal food safety legislation introducing HACCP principles. Ukraine also recognized equivalency of the EU’s food safety system. A new mega-regulator – the State Service on Safety of Foodstuffs and Consumer Protection was created.
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02 Jan 2015
India
India : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
India requires a variety of export certifications for imported food and agricultural products. Throughout calendar year 2014, the Ministry of Health continued to more fully implement and enforce its Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture published two draft health certificates for imported bovine semen and embryos.
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31 Dec 2014
El Salvador
El Salvador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Sections Updated: Section I. List of all Export Certificates Required by Government and Section II. Purpose of Specific Export Certificate (s).
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31 Dec 2014
Korea Republic
Korea - Republic of : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The United States has an organic equivalency arrangement with Korea for processed organic products that took effect July 1, 2014. So long as terms of the arrangements are met, U.S. organic products certified by USDA/AMS/NOP accredited certifying agents to the USDA National Organic Program may be sold as organic in Korea. As for non-processed organic products, they must continue to be certified by Korea’s accredited certifying agents to the Korean organic standards to be sold as organic in Korea.
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31 Dec 2014
Serbia
Serbia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides guidance on the certificate requirements for agricultural and food products imported into the Serbian market and includes the certificates that are standardized between the Serbian Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection and the relevant US authorities (USDA/APHIS, USDA/FSIS, USDA/AMS, and FDA). In 2014, APHIS and the Serbian Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection continued to work on finalizing a Veterinary Health Certificate for Treated Hides and Skins, a Veterinary Health Certificate for Canned Pet Food and other Processed Pet Food, a Veterinary Certificate for Feed Containing and not Containing Feedstuffs of Animal Origin, a Veterinary Health Certificate for Horses (registered equidae for breeding and production), a Veterinary Health Certificate for Beef and Beef Products, a Veterinary Health Certificate for Aquaculture animals for farming and a Veterinary Health Certificate for Treated Game Trophies and other Preparations of Birds and Ungulates.
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31 Dec 2014
New Zealand
New Zealand : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report outlines regulatory requirements for food and agricultural products exported to New Zealand. The sections on food laws, copyright and trademarks laws have been updated since the last report
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31 Dec 2014
Guatemala
Guatemala : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides a detailed explanation of the export certificates that the Government of Guatemala requires for U.S. food and agricultural products to be imported. It contains links to official sites where specific inquiries can be made and responded to (for example, microbiological criteria). It also provides a matrix of certificates required for certain processed products, which have requirements from both the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health.
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31 Dec 2014
El Salvador
El Salvador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Review of El Salvador’s Food and Agriculture Import Regulations and Standards (2012-2014). Updated Sections: Section I. Food Laws, Section II. Labeling Requirements, VI. Other Regulations and Requirements, and Appendix I. Government Regulatory Agency Contacts.
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31 Dec 2014
New Zealand
New Zealand : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements for food and agricultural products exported to New Zealand. The sections on labeling requirements, copyright and trademark laws have been updated since the last report.
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31 Dec 2014
Korea Republic
Korea - Republic of : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Sections Updated: Section I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VII and Appendix I, II. The updates include the U.S.-Korea equivalency arrangement on processed organic products, addition of aflatoxin and some contaminant standards to Section V, updates on import testing of unapproved biotech events, etc.
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31 Dec 2014
South Africa
South Africa : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All the sections of the Report have been updated to comply with the current 2014 reporting instructions as the last FAIRS report for South Africa was done in 2011.
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31 Dec 2014
Guatemala
Guatemala : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Guatemala accepts all U.S. official certifications issued for agricultural fresh and processed food products. For processed food products (other than meats), a Certificate of Free Sales is required. If the Certificate of Free Sales is used to register a new product or update an existing registration (every 5 years), the Certificate of Free Sales needs to be signed and sealed at any Guatemalan Consulate or Embassy in the U.S. Guatemala does not allow for re-export of seafood from non-U.S. origin, unless a Guatemalan inspection visit to the exporting facility has occurred.
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30 Dec 2014
Argentina
Argentina : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides overall information on regulations and standards for importing U.S. food and beverages into Argentina. However, Post recommends U.S. suppliers interested in the Argentine market to contact local importers to find out about specific rules and regulations that may apply to particular products. Currently, Argentina has limited potential for imports of agricultural products, and unexpected changes in import procedures may require additional efforts to ensure that export operations are feasible.
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30 Dec 2014
Thailand
Thailand : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report includes an update of Section 2.1, pertaining to standard labeling. Other minor changes have been made to this report including: requirements of good manufacturing practices of low acid and acidified foods in sealed containers (Section 1.3.1 G); specific import control on beef and beef products from BSE-affected countries (Section 6.6); and specific import controls on pork meat (Section 6.7).
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30 Dec 2014
Hong Kong
Hong Kong : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
U.S. beef cuts and offal products attained full market access to Hong Kong on June 17th, 2014. New requirements for nutritional composition of infant formula and labeling on infant formula will come into effect on December 13th, 2015. For follow-up formula and pre-packaged food for children under 36 months of age, new nutritional labeling requirements will apply as of June 13, 2016.
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30 Dec 2014
Hong Kong
Hong Kong : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
A new beef letterhead certificate was implemented in June 2014 in accordance with full market access granted by Hong Kong to U.S. beef and beef products. During the past five years, the U.S. has exported neither bison nor ostrich meat to Hong Kong, thus, port requirements will be reviewed for any shipments in the future in the context of the animal disease situation and U.S. surveillance program. The HKG has shelved plans for mandatory certification for egg and seafood products. No other significant export certificate changes occurred since the previous report.
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30 Dec 2014
Indonesia
Indonesia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the major export certificates and other requirements expected by the Government of Indonesia (GOI) from U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products.
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30 Dec 2014
Egypt Arab Republic
Egypt : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Egypt as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports. The Minister of Agriculture announced recently that his ministry will take the lead in establishing a Food Safety Authority, which would consolidate Egypt’s disparate food safety system. Egypt’s food control systems and food control infrastructure consist of food laws and accompanying regulations and ministerial decrees, food inspection services, and laboratories for technical support.
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29 Dec 2014
Romania
Romania : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated information on the agricultural and food legislation in Romania. The report should be read in conjunction with the comprehensive FAS USEU European Food & Agricultural Import Regulations (FAIRS) Report.
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24 Dec 2014
Panama Republic
Panama : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Panamanian consumers continue perceiving U.S. food products as high quality, wholesome and reliable, which has resulted in a continuous growth in demand of 14.8 % annually. The U.S-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement entered into force on October 31, 2012. In addition, the United States – Panama Agreement regarding certain sanitary and phytosanitary measures and technical standards affecting trade in agricultural products, is in force since December 20, 2006. This agreement established simplified requirements for the importation of U.S. food and feed products. Amendments to this Bilateral have facilitated U.S. beef, beef products and pet food exports.
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24 Dec 2014
Poland
Poland : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Poland as a member of the European Union applies EU directives and regulations to agricultural imports with only few exceptions. U.S. suppliers should verify with the respective AMS, FDA, FSIS or APHIS Inspection offices and importer for the most current EU/Poland import requirements prior to export. The EU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report prepared by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels should be consulted simultaneously with this report.
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24 Dec 2014
Poland
Poland : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Poland as a member of the European Union applies EU directives and regulations to agricultural imports with only few exceptions. U.S. suppliers should verify with the respective AMS, FDA, FSIS or APHIS Inspection offices and importer for the most current EU/Poland import requirements prior to export. The EU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report prepared by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels should be consulted simultaneously with this report.
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22 Dec 2014
Pakistan
Pakistan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements and import procedures for food and agricultural imports into Pakistan. Compared to the previous report released in 2013, sections I, III, and VIII, and Appendix II have been modified. All imports into Pakistan are governed by the Import Policy Order issued by the Ministry of Commerce. The Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority is the national standardization body. Pakistan’s food imports are regulated by the federal government and food safety standards are regulated by the provincial governments. Pakistan food laws cover 104 food items falling into nine broad categories. In situations where a product is not covered by existing regulations in Pakistan, officials typically adopt Codex guidelines.
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22 Dec 2014
Japan
Japan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections have been updated, and a new section (VII. Facility and Product Registration) has been added.
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22 Dec 2014
Japan
Japan : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Japanese government to export food and agricultural products to Japan. For more information on import requirements, see Japan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Report of December 2014.
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22 Dec 2014
Kenya
Kenya : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report updates on the certificates required to export food and agricultural products into Kenya and complements the FAIRS Country Report. The Government of Kenya (GOK) is implementing a single window for import clearance under a new agency, the Kenya Trade Network Agency (KENTRADE). The system is now able to process export and import permits issued by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs), Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Services (KEPHIS) and the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), and once fully operational will integrate 25 government agencies that are involved in import/export certification and clearance.
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20 Dec 2014
Thailand
Thailand : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists certificates required by Thai government agencies for U.S. products exported to Thailand, including 57 processed and unprocessed food items, other prepackaged processed food, fruit and vegetables, live animals, boneless beef, canned or preserved meat and poultry products, other processed meat products, processed or frozen seafood, hides and skins, distillers dried grains, and live animals. Change from previous report: the export certificate required for low acid and acidified foods packaged in hermetically sealed containers is added to this report.
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19 Dec 2014
Bulgaria
Bulgaria : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
No changes in required import certification and standards for food and agricultural products have occurred during 2014. Please, see GAIN Report - FAIRS Export Certificate Report 12/23/2013 for details.
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19 Dec 2014
Ukraine
Ukraine : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
One new veterinary certificate was negotiated during 2014: the certificate for live fish, invertebrate and other poikilothermic aquatic animals, their fertilized eggs, sperm, larvae intended for productive cultivation, breeding and other use. Additional information on U.S. catch certificate for seafood is provided herein. A broad range of products are covered in the report, which also contains certificate requirements for products that are not legally exportable to Ukraine or products for which market access negotiations are in progress. The report contains the Export Certificate Matrix compiled and updated by FAS Kyiv.
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19 Dec 2014
Mexico
Mexico : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report highlights changes made to various laws and norms published during 2014. Mexican regulations mentioned remain the same unless otherwise noted.
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19 Dec 2014
Ecuador
Ecuador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Ecuador’s requirements for food and agricultural product imports. Hyperlinks to ministries, agencies, and legal documents have been provided throughout this updated report.
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18 Dec 2014
Austria
Austria : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines specific requirements for food and agricultural products imports into Austria. Austria as a member of the European Union follows the EU directives and regulations. It is recommended that this report be read in conjunction with the EU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards.
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18 Dec 2014
Serbia
Serbia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on Serbian regulations and standards concerning food, agriculture, agricultural products and foreign trade. It includes information on labeling, packaging, food additives and import procedures. The report contains the updates on adoption of a new Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy for the period 2014-2024 and two important agriculture laws, Law on Pre- Harvest Financing of Agricultural Production and Law on the Protection and Sustainable Use of the Fishery Fund. Contacts and relevant government agencies in the Appendices have also been updated.
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17 Dec 2014
Ecuador
Ecuador : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies Ecuador’s import requirements for (foreign) export certificates. Highlights current procedures and identifies the relevant agencies with oversight on these issues. An export certificate matrix and outline is included. This report serves as a supplement to FAS Quito’s Food and Agricultural Import Regulation Report (FAIRS) submitted in December 2014.
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16 Dec 2014
Czech Republic
Czech Republic : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Czech Republic has implemented all EU regulations regarding required export certifications. For information on EU export certifications, please see the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Certification Report number E14005 prepared by USEU Brussels.
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16 Dec 2014
Colombia
Colombia : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) - Narrative
This report is an annual update of the food import standards and enforcement mechanisms in Colombia. The following sections were updated: SECTION III. PACKAGING AND CONTAINER REQUIREMENTS; SECTION VI. OTHER REGULATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS: Product Registration, Health Certificates, Export Establishment Registration, Import Duties; SECTION VII. OTHER SPECIFIC STANDARDS: Food samples; SECTION VIII. COPYRIGHT AND/OR TRADEMARK LAWS: Protection of Property Rights and SECTION IX. IMPORT PROCEDURES
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15 Dec 2014
Brazil
Brazil : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements for food and agricultural product imports into Brazil, including import procedures. There were no significant changes to Brazilian regulations within 2014, however, new significant requirements are expected to be implemented during 2015.
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15 Dec 2014
Kenya
Kenya : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides an update of technical import requirements and regulations for food and agricultural products currently required by the Government of Kenya (GOK). The report incorporates recent changes in the relevant agricultural sector statutes, the introduction of the rail development levy (RDL) on imports, the implementation of the Kenya National Electronic Single Window System (KNESWS) - a single international trade platform, and updates contact details for key agencies. Sections updated are I, II, III, IX, and VI, Appendices I and II.
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15 Dec 2014
Chile
Chile : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Since the last Export Certificate report was issued by FAS/Santiago in 2013, a new protocol for equine was added for their temporary entrance into Chile, which was negotiated during 2014. The protocol and sample certificate can be found in the Appendix section of this report. In addition, the Certificate of Legal Origin for Fishery Products and Certificate for Lobsters, which are issued by NOAA can also be found in the appendix.
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12 Dec 2014
Costa Rica
Costa Rica : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
No significant changes have occurred over the last year in terms of export certification requirements for Costa Rica.
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10 Dec 2014
Senegal
Senegal : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report is a reissuance of the 2013 FAIRS export certificate report with no additional certificates. Senegal, as member of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) has adopted the ePhyto, international standard for electronic transmission protocols and procedures for plant health certification, approved in April 2014 in Roma. Senegal extended the application of phytosanitary certificate to eleven national land borders to better monitor imported plant and plant products. This report provides information on export certificates required by the Government of Senegal (GOS) for processed food, animal products, live animals (cattle, pets, etc), plants, and products for animal consumption.
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10 Dec 2014
Austria
Austria : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report covers only specific export certificate requirements by Austria, which are different from EU requirements.
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10 Dec 2014
Senegal
Senegal : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an annual update of Senegal’s food and feed regulations and governmental enforcement mechanisms and bodies. It includes references to the Codex Alimentarius system, as well as, guidance on import procedures and documentation. In 2013, Senegal revised its food standards and issued new standards mainly related to the methods for conducting pysicochemical tests and fatty content. The standards are available upon request to the Association Senegalaise de Normalisation (ASN).
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10 Dec 2014
Cuba
Cuba, Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Section(s) Updated: Sections I, VII, IX & Appendices I, II & III. The United Stat es allows for the export of agricultural products to Cuba in conformity with the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000.
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08 Dec 2014
Ecuador
Ecuador : New Import Requirements for Processed Products - COMEX 019
Ecuador’s Foreign Trade Committee’s COMEX Resolution 019 (September 10, 2014) stipulates that processed food product imports receive prior Ministry of Agriculture authorization. Previously only Ministry of Health authorization was required. However, the Ministry of Agriculture’s AGROCALDAD (Ecuador’s sanitary/phyto-sanitary authority) has assured FAS Quito that this measure will not disrupt trade. With full implementation details still pending, importers of U.S. products may receive inconsistent information.
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08 Dec 2014
Venezuela
Venezuela : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies the different export certification requirements currently in place by product. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is responsible, through its different Ministries, for issuing import permits, import licenses and conducting processed food product registrations. Post updates only minor changes in this report.
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08 Dec 2014
Mexico
Mexico : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies export certificates presently issued by the competent United States government agencies, to comply with Mexican import standards and regulations or to attest that the corresponding agricultural products are subject to U.S. regulation. There are no significant changes to certificate requirements since Post’s 2013 FAIRS report. However, the reader should keep in mind that at the time of revising this report: USDA agencies and Mexican officials continue to discuss how to fully implement electronic certificates, and APHIS has new nomenclature in the health certificate for live animals.
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05 Dec 2014
Canada
Canada : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies export certificates issued by U.S. government authorities to comply with Canadian import standards and regulations or to attest that the product is subject to U.S. government regulation. This report serves as a supplement to the Food and Agricultural Importation Regulation Report (FAIRS) submitted in December 2014. Updates, including some new hyperlinks and up to date contact information, were made to the report and additional electronic copies of certificates have been made available to U.S. exporters.
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05 Dec 2014
Italy
Italy : Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Italy as part of the European Community has implemented EU regulations for the import of products of animal and plant origin. The US export certification requirements for most products destined for the EU have been harmonized. The few products not yet harmonized are subject to Italian national regulations. For information on the export certifications for the EU market, please see the USEU Brussels report which can be found on their website: http://www.usda-eu.org/reports.
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03 Dec 2014
Croatia
Croatia, Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on the food and agricultural product import req uirements for Croatia. Croatia, as a member of the European Union, follows the EU directives and regulations.
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13 Nov 2014
Trinidad And Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago, Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrativ e
Section(s) Updated: Section V, VIII, and Appendices I, II & III" While most U.S. products are fully acceptable in Trinidad and Tobago (TT), special attention needs to be given to licensing, certification, labeling and documentation for select products in order to avoid costly customs clearance delays.
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13 Nov 2014
Trinidad And Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago: Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
U.S. Suppliers need to be mindful of certification requirements for agricultural products entering TT (TT) as port of entry scrutiny can be intense on new-to-market players as well as on new-to-market food products until a track record of compliance can be established.
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21 Oct 2014
Indonesia
Indonesia, Food and Agricultural Import Re gulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated technical information for requirements and regulation s on food and agriculture products as are currently required by the Government of Indonesia (GOI).
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20 Oct 2014
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This FAIRS Certificates Report lists major export certificates required by Saudi Arabia’s regulatory and import control agencies for the importation of food and agricultural product into the Kingdom.
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08 Oct 2014
Morocco
Morocco, Food and Agricultural Import Regula tions and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Morocco as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports.
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08 Oct 2014
Morocco
Morocco, Food and Agricultural Import Regula tions and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Morocco as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports.
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25 Sep 2014
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia,Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This FAIRS Country Report contains update s of the regulatory requirements and pro cedures for importing food and agricultural products into Saudi Arabia.
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22 Aug 2014
Australia
Australia, Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrat ive
Australia is a major producer of raw materials and processed foods but imports a grow ing volume of food and beverages. U.S. exports of consumer ready food products to Australia have risen steadily over recent years and in 2013 were valued at $1.07 billion.
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21 Aug 2014
Spain
Spain, Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Spain is a member of the European Union (EU) and it follows EU directives and regul ations. This report is an update of SP1316 and outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Spain, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation.
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09 Jul 2014
Morocco
Morocco , Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies the major export certificates required by the Moroccan government to export U.S. food and agricultural products to Morocco.
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30 Jun 2014
Spain
Spain Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report only focuses on Spanish specific certification requirements when they differ or are additional to EU-harmonized certification. This report should be read in conjunction with the EU-28 FAIRS Export Certificate report prepared by the FAS Office in the U.S. Mission to the European Commission (USEU).
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18 Jun 2014
Peru
Peru Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Peru’s regulatory requirements for food and agricultural product imports. It updates FAIRS 2013’s Section I (Food Laws), Section V (Pesticides and Other Contaminants), and Appendix I (Government Regulatory Agency Contacts).
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12 Jun 2014
Tunisia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Tunisia as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports.
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03 Jun 2014
Netherland
Netherlands Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) – Country Report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels, Belgium, GAIN E80065.
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03 Jun 2014
Belgium
Belgium Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) – Country Report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels, Belgium, GAIN E80065.
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14 May 2014
Turkey
Turkey Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines specific requirements for food and agricultural products imports into Turkey. It was prepared by the Office of the US Foreign Agricultural Service in Ankara, Turkey for U.S. exporters of domestic food and agricultural products.
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12 May 2014
United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report discusses the food import regulations in Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, referred to in this report as GCC-4. The report highlights the common regulations as well as the differences among them in the application of the regulations.
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30 Apr 2014
Peru
Peru Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies Peru’s import requirements for (foreign) export certificates. It also highlights current procedures and identifies the relevant agencies with oversight on these issues. An export certificate matrix and outline is also included.
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19 Apr 2014
Panama Republic
Panama Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Panamanian consumers continue perceiving U.S. food products as high quality, wholesome and reliable, which has resulted in a continuous growth in demand of 13 % annually.
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14 Mar 2014
Nicaragua
Nicaragua Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists Nicaraguan import requirements for export certification and import permits for agrochemicals, vet products, feed stuffs and food product for human consumption.
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14 Mar 2014
Nicaragua
Nicaragua Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report lists the main Nicaraguan food laws, technical regulations and import requirements.
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07 Mar 2014
Singapore
Singapore Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report contains information and regulations on importing and marketing food products in Singapore. The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) is the national authority for food regulations. AVA’s website (www.ava.gov.sg) is the best source of information on Singapore’s import regulations.
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05 Feb 2014
Kenya
Kenya Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated technical information for import requirements and regulations on food and agricultural products as are currently required by the Government of Kenya (GOK). Sections updated are part of Section I, III, V, VI, Appendix I, and II.
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23 Jan 2014
Mexico
Mexico Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Mexico 2013
This report highlights changes made to various laws and norms published during 2013. Mexican regulations mentioned remain the same unless otherwise noted. We
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07 Jan 2014
Thailand
Thailand Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Minor changes have been made to this report. Revisions include: prohibited food and substances (Section 1.2); requirements of good manufacturing practices (Section 1.3.1 G); labeling of cow’s milk (Section 2.1.4)
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03 Jan 2014
Germany
Germany Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Germany is a member of the European Union (EU) and generally follows EU directives and regulations, including those relating to the importation of food products. This report provides an overview of food laws in force in Germany that cover areas which are not yet harmonized. Food laws currently in force in the EU-27 are summarized in the EU-27 FAIRS report.
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31 Dec 2013
Ecuador
Ecuador Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Ecuador’s 2008 constitution has led to the creation of new laws; some of which are adversely affecting food and agricultural product imports. “This report was prepared by the USDA/ Foreign Agricultural Service – Office of Agricultural Affairs in Quito for U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products. While every possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since its preparation, or because clear and consistent information about these policies was not available.
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31 Dec 2013
India
India Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 was fully implemented in 2013, and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) undertook to harmonize food safety regulations with Codex Alimentarius. Multiple amendments to food safety, labeling and packaging regulations were published, as were new draft guidelines on labeling of imported products. Revised guidelines for trade in bovine germplasm were issued.
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31 Dec 2013
Honduras
Honduras Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Sections I. Food Laws (Central America Technical Regulation chart); IX. Import Procedures (Certificate of Origin website); and Tariffs (CAFTA-DR Quotas for 2014 and Tariffs chart) of this report have been updated.
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30 Dec 2013
New Zealand
New Zealand Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements for food and agricultural products exported to New Zealand. The sections on labeling requirements, copyright and trademarks laws have been updated since the last report.
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30 Dec 2013
Senegal
Senegal Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an annual update of the food and feed regulations and governmental enforcement mechanisms and bodies in Senegal. It includes references to the Codex Alimentarius system in Senegal, as well as, guidance on import procedures and documentation. There are no new standards for 2013.
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27 Dec 2013
Italy
Italy Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated food and agricultural import regulations and standards information for Italy and gives an overview of Italian food laws in the EU context.
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24 Dec 2013
Lithuania
Lithuania Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Report Sections updated: All sections were updated. The EU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report for EU-28, prepared by the US Mission to the EU in Brussels should be reviewed in conjunction with this report.
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24 Dec 2013
Canada
Canada Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
In the fall of 2013, the Government of Canada moved the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) from the Agriculture portfolio to the Ministry of Health. The Safe Food for Canadians Act received Royal Assent in November 2012 and strives to simplify and consolidate the authorities under previous acts regulating food.
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24 Dec 2013
Poland
Poland Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Poland applies EU directives and regulations to agricultural imports with but a few exceptions. U.S. suppliers should verify with the respective AMS, FDA, FSIS or APHIS Inspection offices and importer for the most current EU/Poland import requirements prior to export.
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23 Dec 2013
Taiwan
Taiwan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
In 2012, Taiwan was the seventh largest export market for U.S. food and agricultural products (US$3.21 billion.) All food and agricultural products, whether domestic or imported, must comply with a range of laws designed to protect human health and prevent the introduction of animal and plant pests or diseases.
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23 Dec 2013
Croatia
Croatia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on the food and agricultural product import requirements for Croatia. Croatia, as a member of the European Union, follows the EU directives and regulations.
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23 Dec 2013
Malaysia
Malaysia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This is an update to Post’s standing FAIRS report, with few changes to the previous submission. One change of significance: In July 2014, the Ministry of Health is scheduled to begin enforcing mandatory labeling of food and food ingredients obtained through modern biotechnology.
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23 Dec 2013
Czech Republic
Czech Republic Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on the laws and regulations for food, import rules for food, and contact information in the Czech Republic.
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23 Dec 2013
Serbia
Serbia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides guidance on the certificate requirements for agricultural and food products imported into the Serbian market and includes the certificates that are standardized between the Serbian Ministry of Agriculture and the relevant US authorities (USDA/APHIS, USDA/FSIS, USDA/AMS, and FDA).
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23 Dec 2013
Croatia
Croatia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides information on the export certificates required by the Government of Croatia. All sections of this annual report were updated in December 2013.
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20 Dec 2013
Bulgaria
Bulgaria Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report focuses on Bulgarian certification requirements when they may differ or are in addition to EU-harmonized certification. This report should be read in conjunction with the EU FAIRS Export Certificate report prepared by the FAS Office in the U.S. Mission to the European Commission (USEU).
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20 Dec 2013
Czech Republic
Czech Republic Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Czech Republic has implemented all EU regulations regarding required export certifications. For information on EU export certifications, please see the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Certification Report number E70047 prepared by USEU Brussels.
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20 Dec 2013
New Zealand
New Zealand Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report outlines regulatory requirements for food and agricultural products exported to New Zealand. The sections on food laws, copyright and trademarks laws have been updated since the last report.
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20 Dec 2013
Romania
Romania Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated information on the agricultural and food legislation in Romania. The report should be read in conjunction with the comprehensive EU FAIRS report E70048.
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19 Dec 2013
Bulgaria
Bulgaria Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Bulgaria, a member of the European Union (EU) since 2007, follows all EU directives and regulations. This report outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Bulgaria, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation.
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19 Dec 2013
Russia
Russian Federation Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report highlights export certification requirements for Russia. Please note that certification requirements have and will continue to undergo change as Russia reforms its regulations to meet Customs Union and WTO commitments. Exporters are advised to verify export certification requirements with their importer before shipment.
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19 Dec 2013
Japan
Japan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Japanese government to export food and agricultural products to Japan. For more information on import requirements, see Japan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Country Report of December 19, 2013.
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18 Dec 2013
Mexico
Mexico Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies current export certificates issued by the competent United States government agencies, to comply with Mexican import standards and regulations or to attest that the corresponding agricultural products are subject to U.S. regulation. There are no significant changes to certificate requirements since Post’s 2012 FAIRS report. However, the reader should keep in mind that at the time of revising this report, USDA agencies are discussing with Mexican officials the certification of food preparations that include minimum quantities of egg and dairy as an ingredient.
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18 Dec 2013
Venezuela
Venezuela Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
There were no changes to export certificate requirements over the past year for major agricultural and food products exported to Venezuela. This report identifies the different export certification requirements currently in place by product.
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18 Dec 2013
China P rp
China Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Chinese government for imports of food and agricultural products.
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17 Dec 2013
Venezuela
Venezuela Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is responsible, through its different Ministries, for issuing import permits, import licenses and conducting processed food product registrations. This report was prepared by FAS/Caracas for U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products.
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16 Dec 2013
Australia
Australia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides guidance on export certificate requirements for a representative sample of products that have been identified as having excellent prospects in the Australian market. The information required to import into Australia is complex and changes frequently. It is therefore not possible to provide comprehensive information for every product in this report.
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13 Dec 2013
Nigeria
Nigeria Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has played the lead role for regulating food safety systems in Nigeria over the past decade. NAFDAC’s recent success with international accreditation of the agency’s two major laboratories is another important boost for food safety regulations in Nigeria’s food production, distribution and consumption chain.
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13 Dec 2013
Nigeria
Nigeria Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has played the lead role for regulating food safety systems in Nigeria over the past decade. NAFDAC’s recent success with international accreditation of the agency’s two major laboratories is another important boost for food safety regulations in Nigeria’s food production, distribution and consumption chain.
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12 Dec 2013
Hong Kong
Hong Kong Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
There were no significant changes since the last report except that a new version of the letterhead certificate for beef replaced the old one in February 2013 following the access to the Hong Kong market of U.S. bone-in beef derived from cattle under 30 months of age.
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09 Dec 2013
Tunisia
Tunisia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Tunisia as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports. The approval process for a new and comprehensive food law was disrupted by the Tunisian revolution in 2011 and has been indefinitely postponed. Sections I, V, VII, and the Appendix have all been updated.
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06 Dec 2013
Hong Kong
Hong Kong Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
U.S. bone-in beef products derived from cattle under 30 months of age and boneless beef over 30 months of age have been allowed entry to Hong Kong since February 2013. Discussion on further expanding product cuts to access the market is underway (Section VII).
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05 Dec 2013
Trinidad And Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
U.S. suppliers willing to clear initial hurdles will find Trinidad and Tobago to be an import-friendly country allowing for relatively smooth flowing movement of food products through its borders.
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05 Dec 2013
Cuba
Cuba Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The United States allows for the export of agricultural products to Cuba in conformity with the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000. U.S. suppliers willing to navigate a detailed set of U.S. regulatory controls related to exporting to Cuba will find that the island is fairly receptive to U.S. products.
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03 Dec 2013
Costa Rica
Costa Rica Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updated on 12/03/2013. Sections updated: Section I. Food Laws. Appendix I. Government Regulatory Agency Contacts.
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18 Nov 2013
Russia
Russian Federation Customs Union Technical Regulation on Milk and Dairy Products
The Technical Regulation of the Russia-Kazakhstan-Belarus Customs Union (CU) “On Safety of Milk and Dairy Products” (TR TS 033/2013) is a key CU regulation covering standards and requirements for milk and dairy products. This Technical Regulation was adopted by Decision of the Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission No. 67 of October 9, 2013, and will come into effect as of May 1, 2014.
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18 Nov 2013
Chile
Chile Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Imports and certifications procedures implemented by the Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) of the Ministry of Agriculture obtained ISO 9001 certification in June 2013. Under this new inspection scenario, inspectors have little room for discretionary decisions and full enforcement of the law is required at the ports of entry.
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22 Oct 2013
Spain
Spain Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report only focuses on Spanish specific certification requirements when they differ or are in addition to EU-harmonized certification. This report should be read in conjunction with the EU FAIRS Export Certificate report prepared by the FAS Office in the U.S. Mission to the European Commission (USEU).
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17 Oct 2013
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This FAIRS Country Report contains regulatory requirements and procedures for importing food and agricultural products into Saudi Arabia. The Food Laws Section of this report provides an update on Saudi policy changes that affect food and agricultural trade such as the import ban on U.S. beef and beef products as well as related restriction on the imports of pet foods containing beef products.
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17 Sep 2013
Indonesia
Indonesia Ministries of Agriculture and Trade Revise Horticultural Import Regulations
Indonesia’s Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Trade have revised their import policies for horticultural products. Key changes include the stipulation that registered importers of horticultural products must import 80% of the total allocation within a six month period. Chili and shallot imports will be subject to a reference price system.
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12 Sep 2013
Morocco
Morocco Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Morocco as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports. On May 2013, the Government of Morocco approved a decree on nutritional and allergen labeling. The government has given importers and local producers a grace period of one year to comply with the new regulation. On June 26, 2013, Morocco made available for public comments a new law project # 122.12, which regulates the import of animal and animal products. See Section II for preliminary information on the proposed requirements. Sections I, II, VI, VII, and the Appendix have all been updated.
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26 Aug 2013
Australia
Australia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Australia is a major producer of raw materials and processed foods but imports a growing volume of food and beverages. Imports have increased steadily over recent years. U.S. exports of consumer ready food products to Australia have risen by over 460 percent in value in the past ten years.
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14 Aug 2013
Jordan
Jordan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Jordan is updating its imported food and agricultural product regulations and standards. The country presently maintains a three tier inspection rate system for imported food products based on a product’s potential health risk. Jordanian importers are required to ensure that imported food and agricultural products do not pose a potential threat to public health. All food and agricultural products are subject to random inspection and testing.
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06 Aug 2013
Ghana
Ghana Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report was updated August 6, 2013 and the areas updated are: Section I- Food Laws: The review and amendment of the Food and Drugs law that was initiated last year is still in progress. Section VI- Other Regulations and Requirements (section C): The FDA has revised the registration fee for vetting, processing and documentation of all imported food products.
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27 Jun 2013
Czech Republic
Czech Republic Food Safety and Czech Consumers
Czech consumers are quality oriented and perceive local products as safest. Many would rather reduce quantity purchased rather than settle for lower quality foods.
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17 Jun 2013
Hong Kong
Hong Kong Macao Passed Food Safety Law
The Macao Government notified World Trade Organization members of its passing of the Food Safety Law (Law No 5/2013) in March 2013 via notification G/SPS/N/MAC/11. The Law will become effective October 20, 2013.
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12 Jun 2013
Vietnam Social Republic
Vietnam Food Safety Law and Guiding Decree Released
This report provides an un-official translation of the Vietnam Food Safety Law (FSL) promulgated by Order No.06/2010/L-CTN, and ratified by the National Assembly on June 17, 2010.
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05 Jun 2013
Bahrain
Bahrain Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The report provides guidance on required certificates for food products shipped to Bahrain. While all possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since its preparation, or because clear information about these policies was not available.
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23 May 2013
Morocco
Morocco Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies the major export certificates required by the Moroccan government to export U.S. food and agricultural products to Morocco. In 2011, the Moroccan food safety authority, Office National de Sécurité Sanitaire des Produits Alimentaires (ONSSA) issued new import requirements for dairy products, hides, skins, pet food, feed additives, and honey, and the import certificates for these products are still under discussion with USDA.
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15 May 2013
Kuwait
Kuwait Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides information on export certificates required by the Government of Kuwait from food exporting countries.
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24 Apr 2013
Bahrain
Bahrain Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on the regulations governing importation of food and agricultural products to Bahrain.
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19 Apr 2013
France
France Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards
France is a member of the European Union (EU) and generally follows EU directives and regulations, including those relating to the importation of food products. This report provides an overview of food laws in force in France that cover areas which are not yet harmonized. This report also provides contact information and technical reference materials for exporters of U.S. foods to France.
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08 Mar 2013
Netherland
Netherlands Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections were updated. This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) – Country Report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels, Belgium, GAIN E70048. The report focuses on the import regulations and standards that are not harmonized in the EU or where the Netherlands varies. The EU Regulations that were published in 2012 and measures that went into force in 2012 are detailed in this report.
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08 Mar 2013
Belgium
Belgium Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections were updated. This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) – Country Report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels, Belgium, GAIN E70048. This report focuses on the import regulations and standards that are not harmonized in the EU or where Belgium varies. The EU Regulations that were published in 2012, measures that went into force in 2012 and proposals are detailed in this report.
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05 Feb 2013
Russia
Russian Federation Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report highlights export certification requirements for Russia. Please note that certification requirements have and will continue to undergo change as Russia reforms its regulations to meet Customs Union and WTO commitments.
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05 Feb 2013
Indonesia
Indonesia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated technical information for requirements and regulations on food and agriculture products as are currently required by the Government of Indonesia (GOI).
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04 Feb 2013
Germany
Germany Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Germany is a member of the European Union (EU) and generally follows EU directives and regulations, including those relating to the importation of food products. This report provides an overview of food laws in force in Germany that cover areas which are not yet harmonized. This report also provides contact information and technical reference materials for exporters of U.S. foods to Germany.
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04 Feb 2013
Pakistan
Pakistan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements and import procedures for food and agricultural imports into Pakistan. Compared to the previous report released in 2011, sections I has been modified. All imports into Pakistan are governed by the Import Policy Order issued by the Ministry of Commerce. The Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority is the national standardization body. Pakistan’s food imports are regulated by the federal government and food safety standards are regulated by the provincial governments.
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01 Feb 2013
Russia
Russia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an overview of general legal and technical requirements for food and agricultural imports imposed by the Russian Federation. The following sections of this report have seen substantial revisions from the 2011 FAIRS report: Section I: Food Laws, Section II: Labeling Requirements, Section VI: Other Regulations and Requirements, and Section IX: Import Procedures.
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28 Jan 2013
Venezuela
Venezuela Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report was prepared by the Office of Agricultural Affairs of the USDA/Foreign Agricultural Service in Caracas for U.S. exporters of domestic food and agricultural products. While all possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since its preparation, or because clear and consistent information about these policies was not available.
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23 Jan 2013
Korea Republic
Korea Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Sections Updated: Section I, II, IV, V, VI, VII and Appendix I, II. The updates include the creation of a consolidated new Act covering both organic produce and processed products and the extension of acceptance of U.S. processed organic products that are certified by the National Organic Program until December 31, 2013.
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23 Jan 2013
Venezuela
Venezuela Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is responsible, through its different Ministries, for issuing import permits, import licenses and conducting processed food product registrations.
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17 Jan 2013
Korea Republic
Korea Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Korea’s acceptance of organic certificates for processed organic products issued by the U. S. Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program’s accredited certifiers has been extended until December 31, 2013. No other significant changes have been made.
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09 Jan 2013
Oman
Oman Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report was prepared by the Office of Agricultural Affairs in Dubai for U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products. The report provides guidance on required certificates for food products shipped to Oman. While all possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since its preparation, or because clear information about these policies was not available. It is highly recommended that U.S. exporters verify the full set of import requirements with their foreign customers, who are normally best equipped to research such matters with local authorities, before any goods are shipped.
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04 Jan 2013
Japan
Japan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Japanese government to export food and agricultural products to Japan. For more information on import requirements, see Japan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Country Report of January 4, 2013.
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04 Jan 2013
Japan
Japan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updated Sections: I. Food Laws; II. Labeling Requirements; IV. Food Additives Regulations; V. Pesticides and Other Contaminants; VI. Other Regulations and Requirements; VII. Other Specific Standards.
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04 Jan 2013
India
India Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
*Updated on December 31, 2012* All sections updated.* Food Security Bill Introduced- but still waiting for Parliamentary Approval * Full implementation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 * First amendment to Food Safety and Standards Regulations 2011 * Draft Food Safety and Standards (Import) Regulations, 2011 * Multi-Brand Retail Investment Policy Moves Forward at the State Level* Multiple amendments to Legal Metrology (packaged commodities) rules, 2011 * GOI mandates standard retail package sizes for foods and beverages effective November 1, 2012 * New guidelines on labeling of imported products*
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03 Jan 2013
Argentina
Argentina Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides overall information on regulations and standards for importing U.S. food and beverages into Argentina. However, Post recommends U.S. suppliers interested in the Argentine market to contact local importers to find out about specific rules and regulations that may apply to particular products. In general, Argentina has potential for imports of agricultural products, although unexpected changes in import procedures may require additional efforts to ensure that export operations are feasible.
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31 Dec 2012
Honduras
Honduras Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This FAIRS report provides updates to sections: Food Laws, Labeling Requirements and Food Additives.
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31 Dec 2012
United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), as a member of the GCC, continues to collaborate with other 5 member states to unify the rules and regulations governing food imports in the region. This report provides detailed information on UAE food import procedures, regulations and laws.
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31 Dec 2012
Philippines
Philippines Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Philippine government requirements for the importation of food and agricultural products. The report aims to assist U.S. exporters by providing information on labeling, packaging, permitted ingredients and other relevant information. It also provides points of contact for key Philippine government authorities, U.S. government agencies and trade associations. Sections I and VII have been updated.
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31 Dec 2012
Serbia
Serbia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides guidance on the certificate requirements for agricultural and food products imported into the Serbian market and includes the certificates that are standardized between the Serbian Ministry of Agriculture and the relevant US authorities (USDA/APHIS, USDA/FSIS, USDA/AMS, and FDA).
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31 Dec 2012
China P rp
China Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Chinese government for imports of food and agricultural products.
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28 Dec 2012
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This FAIRS Report provides the list of model certificates required by Saudi Arabia’s regulatory agencies to export food and agricultural products to the Saudi market. The SFDA is now requiring that U.S. poultry meat exports to Saudi Arabia must be accompanied by an attestation from the USDA/FSIS stipulating that exported products were obtained from poultry that was not fed with feed containing animal protein, fat or remnants of animal origin.
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28 Dec 2012
BosniA-Hrzgovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) requires various certificates for imported food products which must be signed by the designated authorities. However, there are no specific formats that exporters are required to use, except for phytosanitary certificates that must be in accordance with the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).
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28 Dec 2012
Serbia
Serbia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on Serbian regulations and standards concerning food, agriculture, agricultural products and foreign trade. It includes information on labeling, packaging, food additives and import procedures. Important points of contact or relevant government agencies for U.S. food exporters are listed in the Appendices.
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27 Dec 2012
EU-27
EU-27 Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report updates each of the nine sections and provides an overview of food laws currently in force in the EU-27.
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27 Dec 2012
Romania
Romania Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an update on the regulatory framework that governs imports of agri-food products into Romania. The report should be read in conjunction with the FAIRS report prepared at EU level.
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27 Dec 2012
Lithuania
Lithuania Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Report Sections updated: All sections were updated. The EU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report for EU-27, prepared by the US Mission to the EU in Brussels, available at http://gain.fas.usda.gov/Pages/Default.aspx or via link EU 27 FAIRS Report should be reviewed in conjunction with this report.
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27 Dec 2012
Lithuania
Lithuania Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Lithuania as a member of the European Union (EU) and applies EU regulatory requirements for import of products of animal or plant origin. The EU has harmonized export certification requirements for most products.
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26 Dec 2012
Mexico
Mexico Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies current export certificates issued by the competent United States government agencies, to comply with Mexican import standards and regulations or to attest that the corresponding agricultural products are subject to U.S. regulation. There are no significant changes to certificate requirements since Post’s 2011 FAIRS report.
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26 Dec 2012
Mexico
Mexico Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report highlights changes made to various laws and norms published during 2012. Mexican regulations mentioned remain the same unless otherwise noted.
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24 Dec 2012
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This FAIRS Country Report contains the regulatory requirements and procedures for importing food and agricultural products into the Saudi market. The Food Laws Section of this report provides updated information on Saudi Arabia’s requirements for U.S. poultry meat exports under the 2005 Saudi-U.S. agreement regarding Saudi Arabia’s WTO accession.
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24 Dec 2012
Poland
Poland Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections of the report were updated. Poland applies EU directives and regulations with but a few exceptions. U.S. suppliers should verify with the respective FSIS or APHIS Inspection offices or the importer for latest EU/Polish import requirements prior to export.
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21 Dec 2012
China P rp
China Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an index of major agricultural product import regulations and standards translated and published by the Office of Agriculture Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing through December 2012. Updates include changes to food laws, labeling requirements, packaging and container requirements, food additive regulations, multiple commodity regulations, commodity specific regulations, and import procedures.
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21 Dec 2012
BosniA-Hrzgovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Sections updated: I, III, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX.
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21 Dec 2012
Thailand
Thailand Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
TH2144: Minor changes have been made to this report. Revised information include: food prohibited to be manufactured, imported and sold (Section 1.2.2); requirements of good manufacturing practices (Section 1.3.1 D); labeling of cow’s milk (Section 2.1.4); food containing contaminants (Section 5.2); specific import control on pork meat (Section 6.7); and specific import controls on fruits and vegetables (Section 6.9).
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21 Dec 2012
Canada
Canada Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The report identifies export certificates issued by U.S. government issuing authorities to comply with Canadian import standards and regulations or to attest that the product is subject to U.S. government regulation. This report serves as a supplement to the Food and Agricultural Importation Regulation Report (FAIRS) submitted in December 2011, CA 12030. Updates, including some new hyperlinks and up to date contact information, were made to the sections covering Food and Drug Administration (FDA) contacts, organic standards, and the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Certification.
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21 Dec 2012
Croatia
Croatia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides information on the export certificates required by the Government of Croatia for processed food, agricultural food products, live animals (cattle, pets, etc), livestock feed and supplements. All sections of this annual report were updated in November 2012. It should be noted that due to Croatia’s rapid harmonization of food legislation with EU legislation, information in this report should be double checked for obsolescence with the USDA office in Croatia
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20 Dec 2012
Romania
Romania Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Romania applies the EU regulations on imports of animal and non-animal products from third countries. National legislation is harmonized with the EU one, including the general requirements for all veterinary health certificates; however, there are specific categories of products that have additional national import requirements beside the aligned certificates.
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20 Dec 2012
El Salvador
El Salvador Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Sections Updated: Section I. List of all Export Certificates Required by Government, Section II. Purpose of Specific Export Certificate (s), Section V. Other Certification/Accreditation Requirements and Appendix I. Electronic Copy or Outline of Each Export Certificate.
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20 Dec 2012
Thailand
Thailand Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists certificates required by Thai Government agencies for U.S. products exported to Thailand including 56 processed and unprocessed food items, other prepackaged processed food, fruit and vegetables, live animals, boneless beef, canned or preserved meat and poultry products, other processed meat products, processed or frozen seafood, and hides and skins.
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19 Dec 2012
Tunisia
Tunisia ood and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Tunisia as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports.
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18 Dec 2012
Guatemala
Guatemala Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides a detailed explanation of the certificates that Government of Guatemala requires for U.S. food and agricultural products to be imported. It contains links to official sites where specific inquiries can be made and responded to (for example, microbiological criteria or standards). It also provides a matrix of certificates required for certain processed products, which have requirements from both the Guatemalan Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health.
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18 Dec 2012
Taiwan
Taiwan Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
In 2011, Taiwan was the sixth largest export market for U.S. food and agricultural products (US$3.7 billion.) All food and agricultural products, whether domestic or imported, must comply with a range of laws designed to protect human health and prevent the introduction of animal and plant pests or diseases.
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14 Dec 2012
Colombia
Colombia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an annual update of the food and agricultural imports regulations and enforcement governmental mechanisms in Colombia.
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13 Dec 2012
Morocco
Morocco Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative 2012
The Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) report provides an overview of the food laws and regulatory environment in Morocco as it relates to U.S. food and agricultural exports.
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12 Dec 2012
Senegal
Senegal Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative 2012 FAIRS Country Report
This report is an annual update of the food and feed regulations and governmental enforcement mechanisms and bodies in Senegal. It includes references to the Codex Alimentarius system in Senegal, as well as, guidance on import procedures and documentation.
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12 Dec 2012
Chile
Chile Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
In July 2012 Chile approved Law 20606 in order to regulate the: “Nutritional Composition of Food and its Advertising”. The Ministry of Health is in the process of drafting the regulations and they will be ready soon for public comments.
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11 Dec 2012
Australia
Australia Canola Voluntary Report December 2012
Australia’s canola production in the local marketing year (MY) 2012/13 (December/November) is forecast at 2.7 million metric tons (MMT), down about 16 percent from last year’s record production level of an estimated 3.2 MMT, but still higher than the previous record of 2.2 MMT harvested in 2010/11.
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11 Dec 2012
Trinidad And Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
U.S. Suppliers need to be mindful of certification requirements for agricultural products entering Trinidad and Tobago. Although Trinidad and Tobago is quite receptive to U.S. products and all required certificates can be readily obtained by U.S. suppliers, careful attention to certification details will help prevent costly customs clearance problems. This report outlines Trinidad and Tobago’s certification requirements and includes an Export Certificate Matrix as well as examples of select Export Certificates.
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10 Dec 2012
Trinidad And Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
U.S. suppliers willing to clear initial hurdles will find Trinidad and Tobago is an import-friendly country allowing for relatively smooth flowing movement of food products through its borders.
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07 Dec 2012
Bahamas
Bahamas Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Bahamas continues along the path of reforming much of its legislation and regulatory structures on food and agricultural products as a result of their World Trade Organization (WTO) accession process.
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06 Dec 2012
Cuba
Cuba Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The United States allows for the export of agricultural products to Cuba in conformity with the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000. U.S. suppliers willing to navigate a detailed set of U.S. regulatory controls related to exporting to Cuba will find that the island is fairly receptive to U.S. products.
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05 Dec 2012
Singapore
Singapore Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Singapore is almost completely dependent on imports for its food security. While import regulations can be stringent, they are generally predictable, transparent, and science-based.
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05 Dec 2012
Portugal
Portugal Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an update of PT1106 and outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Portugal, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation or regulations.
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04 Dec 2012
El Salvador
El Salvador Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Review of El Salvador’s Food and Agriculture Import Regulations and Standards (2012-2013). Updated Sections: Section II. Labeling Requirements, VI. Other Regulations and Requirements and Appendix I. Government Regulatory Agency Contacts.
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03 Dec 2012
Aruba
Aruba Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
"Sections Updated: VIII and Appendix I & II." Aruba is very receptive to U.S. products. At the present time, Aruba has no food-specific legislation to regulate imported foods. U.S. standards for food and agricultural products are fully accepted.
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03 Dec 2012
Hong Kong
Hong Kong Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the certificates required by the Hong Kong government (HKG) for U.S. exports to Hong Kong.
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29 Nov 2012
Bermuda
Bermuda Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Sections Updated: I, II, V, VI, IX and Appendices I & II. Overall Bermuda is very receptive to U.S. products. Bermuda accepts USDA and FDA food standards and regulations on all food products imported from the United States.
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27 Nov 2012
Brazil
Brazil Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements for agricultural imports into Brazil, including import procedures. Compared to the previous report released in 2011, no significant modifications have been made. Some editing was made on Section I, VI, VII and IX.
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21 Nov 2012
Ecuador
Ecuador Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report has been updated to reflect the most recent changes in Ecuadorian laws and in the list of responsible agencies and organizations.
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15 Nov 2012
Costa Rica
Costa Rica Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updated on 11/15/2012. Sections updated: Section I. Food Laws. Section II. Labeling Requirements. Section IV. Additive Regulations. Appendix I. Government Regulatory Agency Contacts.
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07 Nov 2012
Slovak Republic
Slovakia Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Slovak certificates for imports of products from third countries that do not have a harmonized certificate as provided by the European Commission are described in this report.
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07 Nov 2012
Czech Republic
Czech Republic Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Czech Republic has implemented all EU regulations regarding required export certifications. For information on EU export certifications, please see GAIN report no. E60015.
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31 Oct 2012
Costa Rica
Costa Rica Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report includes changes made to the requirements for importation of chipping potatoes under Section III.
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31 Oct 2012
Spain
Spain Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Spain is a member of the European Union (EU) and it follows EU directives and regulations. This report is an update of SP1126 and outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Spain, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation.
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31 Oct 2012
Netherlandantil
Netherlands Antilles Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updated Sections: I & V and Appendix II. With the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010, Curaçao, now an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, is fully responsible for its own regulation of imported food and agricultural products.
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30 Oct 2012
Indonesia
Indonesia Regulation on Importation of Horticulture Product to Indonesia
The Government of Indonesia recently issued two corresponding ministerial regulations which regulate the importation of horticultural products. While the two regulations were separately issued by the Ministries of Agriculture (MOA) and Trade (MOT) respectively, they are both numbered 60/2012.
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11 Oct 2012
Hong Kong
Hong Kong Nutrition Labeling Regulation’s Impact on Food Choices
The Hong Kong government (HKG) conducted two series of surveys gauging the impact of the newly implemented nutrition labeling regulation impact on food choices. The surveys indicated that prepackaged food items in the market amounted to 73,000 before the implementation of the nutrition labeling regulation. The number of food items increased slightly to 78,000 when the final part of the survey was conducted seven months after the inception of the new regulation. The HKG concluded that the implementation of the new regulation did not have any apparent impact on consumers’ food choices. However, it may arrive at a different conclusion if individual retail categories rather than the aggregate figures of all retail outlets were looked at.
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05 Oct 2012
Indonesia
Indonesia The Ministry of Health Publishes a New Regulation on Food Additives
On July 12, 2012 the Minister of Health signed a new law regulating which ingredients can be legally used as food additives.
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27 Aug 2012
China P rp
National Food Safety Standard for Grain
On June 4, 2012, China notified the WTO of National Food Safety Standard: Grain as SPS/N/CHN/525. This standard applies to raw grains and grain products for human consumption, including cereals, beans, and potatoes. This standard does not apply to raw materials for the manufacture of edible oil. The date for submission of final comments to China is August 3, 2012. The proposed date of entry is to be determined. This report is an INFORMAL translation of this document.
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23 Aug 2012
Croatia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on food import rules for Croatia. It includes information on labeling, packaging, food additives and import procedures. Important points of contact for U.S. food exporters are listed in the appendices. All sections of this annual report were updated in August 2012. It should be noted that due to Croatia’s rapid harmonization of food legislation with EU legislation, information in this report should be verified for accuracy with the USDA/FAS office in Croatia.
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22 Aug 2012
Indonesia
Minister of Agriculture Regulation No 42 and 43 Year 2012
New Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) regulations allow for countries with recognized food safety control system for fresh foods of plant origins (FFPO) to retain access to Jakarta’s primary seaport, Tanjung Priok, while other exporting countries are forced to ship to other designated ports. On June 13, 2012, the MOA issued two regulations, No. 42/2012 and No. 43/2012, respectively. Regulation 42 supersedes Regulation No. 37/2006 concerning fruit fly quarantine requirements and Regulation No. 15/2012 regarding the closure of Indonesian ports to specific horticultural products. Regulation 43 focuses on bulb vegetables and also replaces aspects of Regulation 37/2006, as well as Regulation No. 16/2012 on closure of specific ports to bulbs. The new regulations are in effect as of June 19, 2012.
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21 Aug 2012
Australia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections of this report have been reviewed and updated to reflect new or updated laws and regulations. Australia is a major producer of raw materials and processed foods, but imports a growing volume of food and beverages. Imports have increased steadily over recent years. U.S. exports of consumer ready products to Australia have risen by over 110 percent in value in the past five years. All foods sold in Australia must comply with a range of laws designed to protect public health and safety, to ensure plant and animal pests and diseases are not introduced, and to assist consumers. These laws apply equally to imported and locally produced foods. The information contained in this report deals with both public health and quarantine requirements for foods imported into Australia. All imported food must first comply with quarantine and imported food requirements and then with food safety requirements.
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10 Aug 2012
Croatia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on food import rules for Croatia. It includes information on labeling, packaging, food additives and import procedures. Important points of contact for U.S. food exporters are listed in the appendices. All sections of this annual report were updated in August 2012. It should be noted that due to Croatia’s rapid harmonization of food legislation with EU legislation, information in this report should be verified for accuracy with the USDA/FAS office in Croatia.
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09 Aug 2012
Israel
Food & Agricultural Import Regulations & Standards
In the current report the following sections have been updated: Request for permission to import biotic material ; Heavy Metals in Foodstuffs ; New Ingredients that were approved/not approved by the Israeli Ministry of Health for use in Dietary Supplements ; In 2011, the following food color additives have been forbidden for use in morning cereals (E127) Erythrosine and Indigo carmine (E132) ; New amendment to Mandatory Standard SI 373, Honey and honey products ; Draft on Restriction on advertising and marketing of alcoholic beverages Law, which was initiated by the Ministry of Health ; List of the requirements for importing Medical Food ; Updated import list of “Sensitive” food products ; Updated import requirements for organic food and agricultural products ; Summarize of all TBT notifications that Israel submitted to the WTO ; Approved plants and mushrooms for use in food and food additives; Labeling regulation for food products containing GM ingredients is expected to be implemented by the end of 2012. According to the proposed law, it is suggested that labeling will be only required for food products that exceed the 0.9% of the food ingredients considered individually or of the total ingredients.
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27 Jul 2012
Denmark
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report gives an overview of food laws currently in force in Denmark. For information on the general EU level, please refer to the USEU Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Report. Updates have been made in Section VI, B (Other Regulations and Requirements, Certification and Documentation Requirements).
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27 Jul 2012
Canada
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards – Narrative
In 2012, the primary area in which there has been a significant regulatory change is allergen labeling. However, it is worthwhile to note that there are new updates and changes via the Regulatory Cooperation Committee (RCC), the Beyond the Border Initiative (BtB), and upcoming food safety legislation on the horizon.
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25 Jul 2012
China P rp
National Standard of Seed Potatoes (Draft for Approvals)
On July 18, 2012, China notified the WTO of National Standard of Seed Potatoes as G/TBT/N/CHN/920. The standard was drafted for regulating the production of seed potatoes, maintaining seed potato trade order, promoting supervision and administration, and protecting the benefits of farmers. The date for submission of final comments to China is September 16, 2012. The proposed date of adoption of the standard is 90 days after its notification to the WTO, and date of its entry into force is 6 months after the notification.
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24 Jul 2012
Iceland
Islands Food and Agriculture Import Regulations and Standards-Narrative
In the absence of sanitary product registration requirements, significant labeling standards, and laboratory testing, the Cayman Islands are very receptive toward imported foods. Import permits and sanitary export certificates for plant and plant products, live animals, meats, and fish constitute the major requirements for exporting food and agricultural products to the Cayman Islands.
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20 Jul 2012
Kuwait
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides important information on the laws and regulations governing food importation into the State of Kuwait.
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17 Jul 2012
Nigeria
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The responsibilities for regulating Nigeria?s food safety systems devolve within many GON organizations and agencies although National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has played the lead role over the past decade. In 2010, the USDA/FAS collaborated with NAFDAC on a HACCP conference where all sectors in Nigeria?s entire food safety chain participated. The HACCP conference underpinned the subsequent inauguration of Nigeria?s National Food Safety Management Committee (NFSMC) which will take responsibility for food safety systems and operations when fully institutionalized.
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12 Jul 2012
Peru
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies Peru’s import requirements for export certificates and procedures as well as the relevant Peruvian agencies for each request. An export certificate matrix and outlines for export certificates are also included.
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06 Jul 2012
Bahrain
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides detailed information on the rules and regulations governing food imports to the Kingdom of Bahrain.
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22 Jun 2012
Indonesia
Minister of Agriculture Regulation No 42 and 43 Year 2012
New Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) regulations allow for countries with recognized food safety control system for fresh foods of plant origins (FFPO) to retain access to Jakarta’s primary seaport, Tanjung Priok, while other exporting countries are forced to ship to other designated ports. On June 13, 2012, the MOA issued two regulations, No. 42/2012 and No. 43/2012, respectively. Regulation 42 supersedes Regulation No. 37/2006 concerning fruit fly quarantine requirements and Regulation No. 15/2012 regarding the closure of Indonesian ports to specific horticultural products. Regulation 43 focuses on bulb vegetables and also replaces aspects of Regulation 37/2006, as well as Regulation No. 16/2012 on closure of specific ports to bulbs. The new regulations are in effect as of June 19, 2012.
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20 Jun 2012
Bahrain
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides detailed information on the rules and regulations governing food imports to the Kingdom of Bahrain.
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20 Jun 2012
Kuwait
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides important information on the laws and regulations governing food importation into the State of Kuwait.
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16 Jun 2012
Ghana
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report was updated April 24, 2012 and the areas updated are: Section I- Food Laws: The review and amendment of the Food and Drugs law that was initiated last year is still in progress. Section VI- Other Regulations and Requirements (section C): The FDB has revised the registration fee for vetting, processing and documentation of all imported food products. "This report was prepared by the Office of Agricultural Affairs of the USDA/Foreign Agricultural Elmasoeur Ashitey Marcela Rondon 2012 FAIRS Country Report Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative Ghana 5/16/2012 Required Report - public distribution Service in Accra, Ghana for U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products.
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07 Jun 2012
Norway
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report gives an overview of food laws currently in force in Norway. Being a member of the European Economic Area (EEA), Norway applies relevant legislation on food standards.
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07 Jun 2012
Norway
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report gives an overview of food laws currently in force in Norway. Being a member of the European Economic Area (EEA), Norway applies relevant legislation on food standards.
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16 May 2012
Ghana
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report was updated April 24, 2012 and the areas updated are: Section I- Food Laws: The review and amendment of the Food and Drugs law that was initiated last year is still in progress. Section VI- Other Regulations and Requirements (section C): The FDB has revised the registration fee for vetting, processing and documentation of all imported food products
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15 May 2012
Greece
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated contact information for Greece and gives an overview of Greek food laws in the EU context. Information on EU Member State specific requirements can be found in the FAIRS reports prepared by the Offices of Agricultural Affairs in the individual EU Member States:
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15 May 2012
Greece
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated contact information for Greece and gives an overview of Greek food laws in the EU context. Information on EU Member State specific requirements can be found in the FAIRS reports prepared by the Offices of Agricultural Affairs in the individual EU Member States: http://www.fas.usda.gov/posthome/useu/fairs.html. Ornella Bettini Jim Dever FAIRS Country Report Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative Greece GR1205 5/15/2012 Required Report - public distribution DISCLAIMER: This report was prepared by the Office of Agricultural Affairs of the USDA/Foreign Agricultural Service in Rome, Italy for U.S. exporters of domestic food and agricultural products.
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12 Apr 2012
Indonesia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the major export certificates and other requirements expected by the Indonesian government from U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products.
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08 Apr 2012
Oman
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Oman, as a member of the GCC countries, adopts all the Gulf Standard Organization food import regulations, including food products shelf life. This report provides detailed information on the Sultanate of Oman's food import regulations.
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08 Apr 2012
Qatar
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report contains detailed information on Qatar's rules and regulations governing importation of food products.
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28 Mar 2012
Korea Republic
Residue Detection Regulations for Imported Livestock Products
The Quarantine and Inspection Agency (QIA) under the Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries conducts random residue testing on imported livestock products. The regulatory response to detections depends on whether the finding exceeds the set maximum residue limit and the chemical type.
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25 Mar 2012
United Arab Emirates
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), as a member of the GCC, continues to collaborate with other 5 member states to unify the rules and regulations governing food imports in the region. This report provides detailed information on UAE food import procedures, regulations and laws.
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22 Mar 2012
Costa Rica
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report includes updated information related to the use of the Apostille instead of consularization of documents used in the registration process of processed food products. The report also updates information related to import requirements for meat products and processed meat products.
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16 Mar 2012
Italy
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated contact information for Italy and gives an overview of Italian food laws in the EU context. Information on EU Member State specific requirements can be found in the FAIRS reports prepared by the Offices of Agricultural Affairs in the individual EU Member States: http://www.fas.usda.gov/posthome/useu/fairs.html
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15 Mar 2012
South Africa
South Africa Food and Agricultural Import Regulations: Trans-Fats
In February 2011, The Ministry of Health announced new regulations under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act of 1972, which concern the presence of trans-fats in foods. The new regulation goes into effect six-months after the notification. According to regulation, a maximum trans-fat content of two grams per 100 grams, per serving, is allowed in the final product. This regulation is expected to enter into force in August, 2011. FAS/Pretoria learned that this regulation has negatively affected the sourcing of some U.S. consumer-oriented products during a recent EMP funded South African retail food sector assessment.
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09 Mar 2012
China P rp
Regulation on Feed and Feed Additive Import Registration (Amended Draft for Comments)
On March 1, 2012, China's Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) published a Notice on “Regulation on Feed and Feed Additive Import Registration (Amended Draft for Comments)” for public comments, which are due on March 31, 2012. This draft regulation replaces the current “Regulation on Feed and Feed Additive Import Registration (enforced on August 17, 2000),” and provides further details on Decree 609 (CH12008). Please note the MOA Notice provides details on major amendments to the regulation. This report contains an UNOFFICIAL translation of the draft regulation.
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24 Feb 2012
Germany
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Germany is a member of the European Union (EU) and generally follows EU directives and regulations, including those relating to the importation of food products. This report provides an overview of food laws in force in Germany that cover areas which are not yet harmonized. Food laws currently in force in the EU-27 are summarized in the EU-27 FAIRS report.
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15 Feb 2012
Belgium
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections were updated. This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) – Country Report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels, Belgium, GAIN E60080. The report focuses on the import regulations and standards that are not harmonized in the EU or where the Netherlands varies. Also the EU Regulations that were published in 2011 and measures that went into force in 2011 are detailed in this report.
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15 Feb 2012
Netherland
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections were updated. This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) – Country Report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels, Belgium, GAIN E60080. The report focuses on the import regulations and standards that are not harmonized in the EU or where the Netherlands varies. Also the EU Regulations that were published in 2011 and measures that went into force in 2011 are detailed in this report.
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10 Feb 2012
China P rp
12th Five-year Plan on National Food Safety Standards
On January 30, 2012, the Ministry of Health released the 12th Five-year Plan on National Food Safety Standards and is soliciting public comments on the Plan. The Plan reviews the status of the food safety standards and sets objectives for future food safety standard work and safeguard measures to fulfill the objectives.
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03 Feb 2012
Korea Republic
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Sections Updated: Section I, II, IV, V, VI, VII, IX and Appendix I, II. Several of the key updates include: the creation of a consolidated Quarantine and Inspection Agency (QIA) under the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries (MIFAFF); revised caffeine labeling requirements; and a newly established requirement mandating overseas laboratories conducting biotech testing on foods destined for Korea be accredited by the Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA).
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02 Feb 2012
China P rp
National Food Safety Standard on Polyethylene Resin
On November 17, 2011, China notified the WTO of National Food Safety Standard: Polyethylene Resin as SPS/N/CHN/482. This standard applies to polyethylene resin made of ethylene homopolymer and copolymers of ethylene and olefin used for food containers and packaging materials. This standard stipulates technical requirements and packaging requirements of polyethylene resin used for food containers and packaging materials. The date for submission of final comments to China is January 16, 2012. The proposed date of entry is to be determined.
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02 Feb 2012
China P rp
National Food Safety Standard on Vegetable Activated Carbon
On November 18, 2011, China notified the WTO of National Food Safety Standard: Food Additive Vegetable Activated Carbon (Wooden Activated Carbon) as SPS/N/CHN/495. This standard applies to food additive vegetable activated carbon (wooden activated carbon) made from plant materials such as sawdust, coconut shells, and nutshells through physical or chemical method. The date for submission of final comments to China is January 17, 2012. The proposed date of entry is to be determined.
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31 Jan 2012
India
Corrigenda on Food Safety and Standards Regulations2011
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, notified a corrigenda on the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011.
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27 Jan 2012
Korea Republic
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Korea’s Animal, Plant and Fisheries Quarantine Inspection Agency (QIA) was created in 2011 by merging the three agencies responsible for animal and livestock products, plants, and fisheries respectively. The report has been updated to reflect this change. No other substantive changes were made.
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27 Jan 2012
Costa Rica
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updated on 01/27/2012. Sections updated: Section I. Food Laws. Section II. Labeling Requirements. Section IX. Import Procedures. Appendix I. Government Regulatory Agency Contacts.
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06 Jan 2012
India
First Amendments to the Food Safety and Standards Regulations 2011
On December 29, 2011, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published a draft gazette notification amending the Food Safety and Standards Regulations 2011. The amendments pertain to (i) labeling of food products, (ii) use of food additives, (iii) prohibition and restriction on sales, and (iv) laboratory and sample analysis. The FSSAI has invited comments from stakeholders by January 12, 2012.
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03 Jan 2012
Canada
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Canada has introduced some food and agricultural regulations and initiatives in 2011 that may be of importance to U.S. exporters. Some of these regulations and/or initiatives include the approval of new health claims, new allergen labeling regulations, regulatory amendments to the Food and Drug Regulations to allow the use of sodium diacetate in meat products, as well as voluntary targets for sodium reduction for pre-packaged (processed) foods.
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31 Dec 2011
China P rp
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Chinese government from exporters of food and agricultural products.
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31 Dec 2011
Guatemala
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides a detailed explanation of the export certificates that Government of Guatemala requires for U.S. food and agricultural products to be imported. It contains links to official sites where specific inquiries can be made and responded to (for example, microbiological criteria or standards that must be complied with). It also provides a matrix of certificates required for certain processed products, which have requirements from both the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health.
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31 Dec 2011
Malaysia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
On July 1, 2011 Malaysia’s veterinary authority imposed on-site inspection requirement for foreign pork abattoirs. Pork product imports are only allowed from abattoirs that have been inspected and approved by the Department of Veterinary Services. On December 14, Malaysia notified the WTO on a regulation related to halal certification and labeling.
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30 Dec 2011
Russia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report highlights export certification requirements for Russia. Please note that certification requirements have and will continue to undergo change as Russia reforms its regulations to meet Customs Union and soon WTO Accession commitments. Exporters are highly advised to verify the export certification requirements with their importer.
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30 Dec 2011
Kenya
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Government of Kenya protects “sensitive” agricultural commodities and derived food products, including meat, poultry, and dairy using non-tariff barriers, such as certificates of export that must be presented by the trade-agent at the point of import into Kenya.
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30 Dec 2011
Czech Republic
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on the laws and regulations for food, import rules for food, and contact information in the Czech Republic. It is recommended to read the EU-27 Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards report because the Czech Republic, a member of the European Union, follows the EU directives and regulations
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30 Dec 2011
New Zealand
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements for food and agricultural products exported to New Zealand. The sections on food laws, copyright and trademarks laws have been updated since the last report.
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30 Dec 2011
EU-27
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report updates each of the nine sections and provides an overview of food laws currently in force in the EU-27. In order to facilitate the reading of this report, updates specific to 2011 have been highlighted. European Commission proposals/initiatives which may have an impact on U.S. exporters are also included. Information published on the USEU/FAS website will be transferred to a new website in the first half of 2012.
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30 Dec 2011
Guatemala
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Food Safety Unit of Ministry of Agriculture is enforcing food safety regulations and as of November 1, 2011, a self Certificate of Attestation has to be issued by U.S. horticultural exporters. Meats and products (including eggs) are still subject to the FSIS-9060 form only. Though U.S. food export products are not required to submit food safety documentation, products are responsible to comply with microbiological, chemical, veterinarian and mycotoxin maximum residues requirements.
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29 Dec 2011
Pakistan
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements and import procedures for food and agricultural imports into Pakistan. Compared to the previous report released in 2010, sections I, VI, VIII and IX have been modified. All imports into Pakistan are governed by the Import Policy Order issued by the Ministry of Commerce annually. The Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority is the national standardization body. Pakistan’s food imports are generally regulated by the federal government and food standards are regulated by the provincial governments. Pakistan food laws cover 104 food items falling into nine broad categories.
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29 Dec 2011
Serbia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Report provides guidance on the export certificate requirements for export of agricultural and food products to the Serbian market. This report covers the health certificates that are standardized between Serbian Ministry of Agriculture and USDA/APHIS for exports from the United States to Serbia, including health certificate for export of live cattle standardized in July 2011.
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29 Dec 2011
BosniA-Hrzgovina
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) requires various certificates for imported food products. However, there are no specific formats that exporters are required to use, except for phytosanitary certificates that should be in accordance with the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). Some veterinary certificates need to contain certain statements set by the State Veterinary Office (SVO).
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29 Dec 2011
Trinidad And Tobago
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report was prepared by the Caribbean Basin Agricultural Trade Office (CBATO) of the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)/U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Miami, Florida for U.S. exporters of domestic food and agricultural products. While every possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since its preparation, or because clear and consistent information about these policies was not available. It is highly recommended that U.S. exporters verify the full set of import requirements with their foreign customers, who are normally best equipped to research such matters with local authorities, before any goods are shipped.
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28 Dec 2011
Malaysia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On July 1, 2011 Malaysia imposed an on-site inspection requirement for foreign pork abattoirs. On October 1, 2011, Malaysia began fully enforcing new grading, packaging and labeling regulations on fruits and vegetables. On December 14, Malaysia notified the WTO regarding a regulation on halal certification and use of labeling. In July 2012, the Ministry of Health is scheduled to begin enforcing mandatory labeling of food and food ingredients obtained through modern biotechnology.
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28 Dec 2011
Trinidad And Tobago
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
U.S. suppliers willing to clear initial hurdles will find Trinidad and Tobago is an import-friendly country allowing for relatively smooth flowing movement of food products through its borders. While most U.S. standards are fully acceptable, special attention needs to be given to licensing, certification, labeling and documentation for select products in order to avoid customs clearance delays.
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28 Dec 2011
Bahamas
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The Bahamas is currently in the midst of reforming much of its legislation and regulatory structures on food and agricultural products as a result of their World Trade Organization (WTO) accession process. New and more detailed labeling requirements, among other changes, are expected to be enacted in 2012. Still, these changes are not expected to alter the fact that The Bahamas is very receptive to U.S. products. With 95 percent of food and agricultural product imports traditionally coming from the United States, The Bahamas recognizes and accepts U.S. standards for nearly all farm products.
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28 Dec 2011
Chile
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Final letterhead certificate for all fresh/chilled/ frozen bovine meat products including offal was agreed on. Please see the appendix of this report for a sample. The Chileans open the market for U.S. pork casings.
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28 Dec 2011
Indonesia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides the updated technical requirements and regulation on food and agriculture products imposed by Government of Indonesia.
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27 Dec 2011
Mexico
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Section I. Food Laws, Section II. Labeling Requirements, Section III. Packing and Container Regulations, Section IV. Food Additive Regulations, Section V. Pesticides and Other Contaminants, Section VI. Other Regulations and Requirements, Section VII. Other Specific Standards, Section VIII. Projected Regulatory Amendments, Section IX. Copyright and/or Trademark Laws, Section X. Import Procedures, Section XI. Relevant Reports, Appendix I. Government Regulatory Agency Contacts, Appendix II. Other Import Specialist Contacts, Appendix III. List of Mexican Food and Agriculture Regulatory Agencies, Appendix IV. List of Approved Food Additives Hermetically Sealed Subject to Heat Treatment, Diagram I. Imports of U.S. Agricultural Goods to Mexico
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27 Dec 2011
Saudi Arabia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
FAIRS Country Report provides useful information about regulatory requirements and import procedures for food and agricultural imports as they are established and enforced by the government of Saudi Arabia. The Food Laws Section of this report is updated with information on the newly revised animal feed subsidy and the Saudi government’s decision to eliminate and/or reduce duties on imported foodstuffs.
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23 Dec 2011
Canada
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The report identifies export certificates issued by U.S. government issuing authorities to comply with Canadian import standards and regulations or to attest that the product is subject to U.S. government regulation. This report is intended as a supplement to the Food and Agricultural Importation Regulation Report (FAIRS) submitted in December 2011, CA11073. Updates, including some new hyperlinks and up to date contact information, were made to the sections covering Food and Drug Administration (FDA) contacts, organic standards, and the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Certification.
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22 Dec 2011
Chile
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Chile actively participates in the World Trade Organization and the CODEX Alimentarius Commission. Because Chile is concerned that unscientific technical trade barriers may adversely affect its exports, the government supports the standardization of sanitary and phytosanitary trading regulations
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20 Dec 2011
Russia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an overview of general legal and technical requirements for food and agricultural imports imposed by the Russian Federation. Substantial sections of this report have been updated from the 2010 FAIRS report, including: Section I: Food Laws, Section V: Pesticides and Other Contaminants, Section VI: Other Regulations and Requirements, Section VII: Other Specific Standards, Section VIII: Copyright and Trademark Laws, and Section IX: Import Procedures
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16 Dec 2011
Spain
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an update of SP1022 and outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Spain, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation or regulation. This report should be read in conjunction with the EU-27 Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Report,
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14 Dec 2011
Honduras
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Sections Updated: There are no changes in the import requirements of the Government of Honduras
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14 Dec 2011
Nigeria
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The responsibilities for regulating Nigeria‟s food safety systems devolve within many GON organizations and agencies although NAFDAC (Nigeria‟s FDA equivalent) has played the lead role over the past decade. In 2010, the USDA/FAS collaborated with NAFDAC on a HACCP conference where all sectors in Nigeria‟s entire food safety chain participated.
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13 Dec 2011
Finland
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
As a member of the European Union (EU), Finland fully applies EU regulations on export certificates. In addition to certificates required by the EU, there are specific sanitary certificate requirements with regard to salmonella for imports of fresh meat, meat preparations and eggs into Finland.
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13 Dec 2011
Tunisia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This Food and Agricultural Import Regulations Report updates the sections concerning food laws, labeling requirements, and specific standards and import procedures in Tunisia. The process of approving new and comprehensive food legislations in 2011 has been disrupted by the Tunisian revolution and the fall of Ben Ali‟s regime in January 2011.
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12 Dec 2011
Colombia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an annual update of the food and agricultural imports regulations and governmental enforcement mechanisms in Colombia. The following sections were updated: I. SECTION II.LABELING REQUIREMENTS, B. Requirements for other specific labeling requirements: Biotechnology, Nutritional Labeling and Additives Labeling; SECTION VI. OTHER REGULATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS: Import Duties; SECTION VIII. COPYRIGHT AND/OR TRADEMARK LAWS: Patents and Trademarks; SECTION IX. IMPORT PROCEDURES: Beef and Pork, Not-Transformed (Fresh, Chilled or Frozen), Beef and Pork, Transformed (fresh, chilled or frozen), Import Requirements for Poultry Meat (whole birds), not transformed, Poultry Parts (fresh, chilled or frozen), Milk.
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12 Dec 2011
Iraq
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards
This report was prepared by the Office of Agricultural Affairs in the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq. Iraq is still going through a transition from a centrally-run economic system to a more market-oriented economy. Across the government, many regulations and policies are being revised; therefore, information in this report is subject to change. Iraqi importers can confirm current regulations through local authorities. Regulatory agencies and contacts are provided in the appendix.
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09 Dec 2011
Thailand
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
TH1153: Food safety is under the purview of the Ministry of Public Health through the Food Act of B.E. 2522 (1979). The Food Act gives MOPH’s FDA the authority to license, inspect, recall and establish safety and quality standards for food products. Thailand usually follows Codex standards for food additives and Codex MRLs for pesticides and veterinary drugs.
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09 Dec 2011
Senegal
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides information on export certificates required by the Government of Senegal (GOS) for processed food, animal products, live animals (cattle, pets, etc), plants, and products for animal consumption. There has been no change from the 2010 report.
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06 Dec 2011
Hong Kong
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
With the commencement of the Genetically Modified Organisms (Control of Release) Ordinance and the Genetically Modified Organisms (Documentation for Import and Export) Regulation in March 2011, there are documentation requirements for shipments containing living modified organisms. The Food Safety Ordinance, a new food law, which introduces a food tracing mechanism by requiring traders to register and keep trade records commenced in August 2011 with a six-month grace period. New legislative initiatives for 2012 include mandatory certification requirements for egg imports and the introduction of Hong Kong’s new pesticide regulation. Updates on Hong Kong’s proposed pesticide framework are provided in Section V.
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22 Nov 2011
Portugal
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an update of PO7007 and outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Portugal, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation or regulations. This report should be read in conjunction with the EU-27 Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Report.
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21 Nov 2011
Sweden
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
As a member of the European Union (EU), Sweden fully applies EU regulations on export certificates. In addition to certificates required by the EU, there are specific sanitary certificate requirements with regard to salmonella for imports of fresh meat, meat preparations and eggs into Sweden.
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04 Nov 2011
Ukraine
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
There have been some changes affecting agricultural product quality, safety, and sanitation regulations in Ukraine since the submission of the last report. Ukraine undertook an Administrative Reform and actively changed names and authorities of state regulatory bodies. Significant changes took place in the Conformity Certification area (see Section VI). Information on Food Laws (Section I) was significantly updated and changed. Contact information for Ukrainian regulatory authorities has been updated to match new regulatory functions.
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31 Oct 2011
Belize
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The documentation needed to import food and agricultural products into Belize is an import permit from BAHA, an SPS certificate, a certificate of origin, a commercial invoice, and a bill of lading. Most plant products will also need a certificate of treatment and inspection by quarantine officials.
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30 Oct 2011
Russia
Customs Clearance Points for Raw Meat and Poultry
On November 17, 2011, the Russian Federal Customs Service (FCS) issued Order #2342, directed at normalizing operations connected with the customs declaration and the release of meat and poultry classified under HS 02 TN VED imported into the customs territory of the Customs Union. Most importantly, it defines the list of customs clearance points in the Russian Federation for raw meat and poultry imports.
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28 Oct 2011
El Salvador
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
El Salvador does not have a specific food law that applies to imported foodstuffs. Instead, the Salvadoran Health Code is the most widely used instrument to enforce local food safety. The Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance (MPHSA) is in charge of all registrations and authorizations to import, manufacture, and sell foodstuffs and beverages, as well as any raw materials used in the production process.
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24 Oct 2011
Croatia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides information on the export certificates required by the Government of Croatia for processed food, agricultural food products, live animals (cattle, pets, etc), products for animal consumption, and feed. All sections of this annual report were updated in October 2011. It should be noted that due to Croatia’s rapid harmonization of food legislation with EU legislation, information in this report should be double checked for obsolescence with the USDA office in Croatia
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21 Oct 2011
Australia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides guidance on export certificate requirements for a representative sample of products that have been identified as having excellent prospects in the Australian market. The information required to import into Australia is complex and changes frequently. It is therefore not possible to provide comprehensive information for every product in this report.
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18 Jul 2011
Vietnam Social Republic
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides a summary of the documents required to export food and agricultural products from the United States to Vietnam. One of the most substantive new requirements is that U.S. companies that wish to export meat, poultry, and seafood products to Vietnam must register by completing Appendix 3 of "Circular 25" in order to become an approved Food Business Operator, this is covered in section five of this report. A collection of the most commonly used export documents for Vietnam are included in the Appendices.
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26 Apr 2011
Indonesia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the major export certificates and other requirements expected by the Indonesian government from U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products.
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11 Apr 2011
Aruba
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Aruba is very receptive to U.S. products. At the present time, Aruba has no food-specific legislation to regulate imported foods. U.S. standards for food and agricultural products are fully accepted. Import licenses are required for select agricultural products.
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06 Apr 2011
United Arab Emirates
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), six countries that include the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The Office of Agricultural Affairs (OAA) in Dubai covers Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and UAE (also known as the GCC-5).
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23 Mar 2011
EU-27
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This guide provides an overview of the required health certificates for exporting plants, animals, food and other products of animal origin to the EU. All relevant U.S. regulatory agencies have been informed of the wide range of certificate changes made in the past months and they have updated their export manuals to reflect these changes.
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23 Feb 2011
Romania
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an update on the regulatory framework that governs imports of agri-food products into Romania.
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09 Feb 2011
Netherland
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections were updated. This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) – Country Report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels, Belgium, GAIN E57011.
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09 Feb 2011
Belgium
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections were updated. This report should be read in conjunction with the Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) – Country Report written by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels, Belgium, GAIN E57011.
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04 Feb 2011
Turkey
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The content of this report is nearly identical to USDA FAS GAIN report “TU8044- FAIRS Export Certificate Report” published on November 24, 2008. One notable addition is information about the protocol for importation of live breeding bulls from the United States to Turkey.
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01 Feb 2011
Germany
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Germany is a member of the European Union (EU) and generally follows EU directives and regulations, including those relating to the importation of food products. This report provides an overview of food laws in force in Germany that cover areas which are not yet harmonized. Food laws currently in force in the EU-27 are summarized in the EU-27 FAIRS report.
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26 Jan 2011
Malaysia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report is on Malaysian government's requirements for export certificate to import U.S. food and agricultural products. No changes.
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25 Jan 2011
Austria
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report covers only specific export certificate requirements by Austria, which are different from EU requirements.
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14 Jan 2011
Finland
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Sections updated: Section I and Section III. As a member of the European Union (EU), Finland fully applies EU regulations on export certificates. In addition to certificates required by the EU, there are specific sanitary certificate requirements with regard to salmonella for imports of fresh meat, meat preparations and eggs into Finland.
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05 Jan 2011
Korea Republic
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
KFDA’s certification system for processed organic products will remain in place until the end of 2012 and will be replaced by a MIFAFF certification system.
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03 Jan 2011
Ecuador
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report has been updated to reflect the most recent changes in Ecuador Health Law and changes in the list of responsible agencies and organizations. It is important to note that Ecuador is enforcing a new constitution approved by public referendum on September 28th, 2008, resulting in the creation and modification of several laws.
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31 Dec 2010
China P rp
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Chinese government from exporters of food and agricultural products.
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30 Dec 2010
Panama Republic
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Panamanian consumers continue perceiving U.S. food products as high quality, wholesome and reliable, which has resulted in a continuous growth in demand. Panama approved and ratified a Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA) with the U.S., which is at present pending for ratification by the U.S. Congress. In addition, the United States – Panama Agreement regarding certain sanitary and phytosanitary measures and technical standards affecting trade in agricultural products, is in force since December 20, 2006. This agreement established simplified requirements for the importation of U.S. food products.
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28 Dec 2010
Honduras
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Sections Updated: I. List of All Export Certificates Required by Government (Matrix). II. Purpose of Specific Export Certificate (s). IV. Government Certificates Legal Entry Requirements.
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28 Dec 2010
Serbia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Report provides guidance on the export certificate requirements for export of agricultural and food products to the Serbian market. This report covers the health certificates that are standardized between Serbian Ministry of Agriculture and USDA/APHIS for exports from the United States to Serbia. APHIS and Serbian Ministry of Agriculture are continuing to work on standardization of Health Certificate for Treated Hides and Skins, Pet Food other than Canned, Breeding Cattle and Horses. This Report contains an Export Certificates matrix and samples of Export Certificates in Appendix I.
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27 Dec 2010
Italy
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated contact information for Italy and gives an overview of Italian food laws in the EU context. Information on EU Member State specific requirements can be found in the FAIRS reports prepared by the Offices of Agricultural Affairs in the individual EU Member States
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27 Dec 2010
Peru
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report identifies Peru’s import requirements for export certificates and procedures as well as the relevant Peruvian agencies for each request. An export certificate matrix and outlines for export certificates are also included
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25 Dec 2010
Denmark
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report gives an overview of food laws currently in force in Denmark. Updates have been made in the following sections: Section IV. Food Additives Regulations and Section V. Pesticide and Other Contaminants.
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23 Dec 2010
Norway
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Norway applies EU regulations on export certificates. In addition to certificates required by the EU, Norway applies the same specific sanitary certificate requirements with regard to salmonella for imports of fresh meat, meat preparations and eggs.
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23 Dec 2010
Tunisia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides an update of the list of certificates required to export food and agricultural products to Tunisia. Several sanitary and phytosanitary certificate are being negotiated between USDA/APHIS and the Tunisian Ministry of Agriculture. Constraints that block the final approval of some of these certificates include the Tunisian government’s insistence that certificate must state that imported products are “free” of dioxin, radioactive materials, or growth hormones.
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22 Dec 2010
South Africa
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The South African Department of Health has recently published new regulations on labeling and advertising of food stuffs which will be effective on March 01, 2011. These regulations provide clear guidance regarding labeling and the advertisement of foodstuffs. Manufacturers of foodstuffs, both nationally and internationally, must adapt their labeling accordingly. The Minister of Trade and Industries has also published new regulations relating to the labeling of GMOs.
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22 Dec 2010
New Zealand
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides a broad overview of export certificate requirements for a representative sample of products exported to New Zealand. All sections of this report have been reviewed and updated to reflect New Zealand’s most recent requirements. However, as these regulations are constantly updated, exporters interested in exporting to New Zealand are encouraged to check relevant websites for the most up-to-date information.
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22 Dec 2010
Pakistan
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements and import procedures for food and agricultural imports into Pakistan Compared to the previous report released in 2009, sections VI, VII and IX have been modified. Pakistan’s food imports are generally regulated by the federal government and food standards are regulated by the provincial governments. Pakistan food laws cover 104 food items falling into nine broad categories
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22 Dec 2010
Canada
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updates have been made in many sections of this report including Label Changes on Sodium Diacetate, Processed Horticultural Products, Marine Standards, Vitamin and Mineral Fortification, Organic Foods, Import Procedures, Labeling Service Offices, Non-Resident Importers, and Forms. N
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21 Dec 2010
Costa Rica
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Updated on 12/21/2010. Sections updated: Section I. Food Laws. Section IX. Import Procedures. Appendix I. Government Regulatory Agency Contacts.
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21 Dec 2010
Poland
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections were updated. Poland applies EU directives and regulations with but a few exceptions. In 2009 and 2010 implementation of the EU system led to frequent shipment detentions due to outdated Polish forms. U.S. suppliers should verify with the respective FSIS or APHIS Inspection offices or the importer for latest EU/Polish import requirements prior to export.
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20 Dec 2010
Thailand
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists certificates required by Thai government agencies for the import of U.S. products into Thailand. These include standardized requirements for 56 processed and unprocessed food items and individual requirements for popcorn, fruit and vegetables, live animals, boneless beef, canned or preserved meat and poultry products, other processed meat products, processed or frozen seafood, and hides and skins.
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20 Dec 2010
Spain
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an update of SP9011 and outlines the applicable legislation regarding the export of U.S. food products to Spain, particularly those rules that differ from EU legislation or regulation.
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17 Dec 2010
Japan
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists major export certificates required by the Japanese government to export food and agricultural products to Japan. For more information on import requirements, see Japan Food Agriculture Import Requirements and Standards Country Report of December 17.
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16 Dec 2010
Mexico
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Section I. Food Laws, Section II. Labeling Requirements, Section III. Packing and Container Regulations, Section IV. Food Additive Regulations, Section V. Pesticides and Other Contaminants, Section VI. Other Regulations and Requirements, Section VII. Other Specific Standards, Section VIII. Projected Regulatory Amendments, Section IX. Copyright and/or Trademark Laws, Section X. Import Procedures, Section XI.
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16 Dec 2010
Venezuela
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report was prepared by the Office of Agricultural Affairs of the USDA/Foreign Agricultural Service in Caracas for U.S. exporters of domestic food and agricultural products. While every possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since its preparation, or because clear and consistent information about these policies was not available.
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15 Dec 2010
Ukraine
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
There have been very few changes affecting agricultural product quality, safety, and sanitation regulations in Ukraine since submission of the last report. Compulsory Conformity Certification for some food roducts was abolished (see Section VI). Ukraine adopted a few biotech laws but has several draft laws waiting for debate and possible amendments. There is a new biotech law on the registration of GM feeds, but implementing regulations are lacking. Information on Food Laws (Section I) was significantly expanded. Contact information for Ukrainian regulatory authorities has been updated.
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15 Dec 2010
Sweden
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Sections updated: I, II and III. As a member of the European Union (EU), Sweden fully applies EU regulations on export certificates. In addition to certificates required by the EU, there are specific sanitary certificate requirements with regard to salmonella for imports of fresh meat, meat preparations and eggs into Sweden.
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15 Dec 2010
Chile
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
New certification for one-day birds and fertile eggs was negotiated during 2010, see sanitary requirements in Appendix II; new sanitary certification for bovine semen was put out for public comments in the WTO, deadline has finished and we are waiting for the last version, update will be posted in APHIS website when notified; Chile and the United States are negotiating new certificates for frozen/chilled/processed pork and bovine meat, until such process is finish, the declarations given on this report are valid, see Animal product section, page 17 and 18.
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14 Dec 2010
Colombia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an annual update of the food and agricultural imports regulations and enforcement governmental mechanisms in Colombia. The following sections were updated: SECTION II. LABELING REQUIREMENTS, General Requirements; SECTION III. PACKAGING AND CONTAINER REQUIREMENTS; SECTION IV. FOOD ADDITIVE REGULATIONS; SECTION VI OTHER REGULATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS, Import Duties, Value-added Tax (VAT); SECTION VII. OTHER SPECIFIC STANDARDS Enriched Wheat Flour and GOVERNMENT REGULATORY AGENCY CONTACTS and Appendix III. Food Additives Authorized for groups of Preservatives, acidulates, buffers, pH regulators and antioxidants.
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13 Dec 2010
Brazil
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines regulatory requirements for agricultural imports into Brazil, including import procedures. Compared to the previous report released in 2009, significant modifications have been made on Section III, IV, VI, VII and IX.
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10 Dec 2010
Hong Kong
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report lists the certificates required by the Hong Kong government (HKG) for U.S. exports to Hong Kong. Certificate samples for various product categories are included in the appendix. There have not been any changes in Hong Kong’s certificate requirements since the 2009 report.
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10 Dec 2010
Senegal
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides information on export certificates required by the Government of Senegal for processed food, animal products, live animals (cattle, pets, etc), plants and products for animal consumption.
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09 Dec 2010
Guatemala
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides a detailed explanation of the export certificates that Government of Guatemala requires for U.S. food and agricultural products to be imported. It contains links to official sites where specific inquiries can be made and responded to (for example, microbiological criteria or standards that must be complied with). It also provides a matrix of certificates required for certain food products, which have requirements from both the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health.
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08 Dec 2010
Russia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report highlights the vast certification requirements to export agricultural commodities to Russia. With the adoption of the Customs Union between Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan, the certification will drastically change in 2012 to conform to the New Custom Union Requirements.
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06 Dec 2010
Kenya
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report focuses on the food and agricultural export certificates required by the Government of Kenya for U.S. agricultural commodities and product shipment to Kenya. FAS/Nairobi presents the information in a matrix format with specific examples of the required documentation in this report’s appendix.
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02 Dec 2010
Argentina
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards -Certification
Argentina's Animal and Plant and Food Safety Agency (SENASA) is in charge of the approval of all health certificates required for the importation of most agricultural products to Argentina. In this report an Export Certificate Matrix and a copy of the majority of the certificates have been included.
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01 Dec 2010
Morocco
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides an update on the list of certificates required to export food and agricultural products to Morocco. A new model certificate for U.S. equine exports to Morocco has been finalized by USDA/APHIS and the Moroccan Ministry of Agriculture office of food safety ONSSA. A new certificate model for U.S. fishery and aquacultural exports to Morocco has been approved and is now in effect.
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27 Nov 2010
Saudi Arabia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
The Agricultural Trade Office of the USDA/Foreign Agricultural Service in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia prepared this report for U.S. exporters of domestic food and agricultural products. While every possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since its preparation, or because clear and consistent information about these policies was not available.
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24 Nov 2010
India
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certificatio
Export certification requirements for imports of food products in India are summarized in this report. Since the last report (IN9127 of September 24, 2009) the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has officially become the single regulator for all existing acts and orders related to food safety and standards
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17 Nov 2010
Bahamas
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
As part of the process to accede to the World Trade Organization (WTO), The Bahamas is in the midst of reforming much of its legislation and regulatory structures on food and agricultural products. New and more detailed labeling requirements, among other changes, are expected to be enacted in 2011.
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17 Nov 2010
Cuba
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The United States allows for the export of agricultural products to Cuba in conformity with the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000. U.S. suppliers willing to navigate a detailed set of U.S. regulatory controls related to exporting to Cuba, will find that the island is fairly receptive to U.S. products. This report provides information on Cuba's regulatory environment as it relates to U.S. agricultural exports.
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16 Nov 2010
Croatia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report provides information on the export certificates required by the Government of Croatia for processed food, agricultural food products, live animals (cattle, pets, etc), products for animal consumption, and feed. All sections of this annual report were updated in November 2010. It should be noted that due to Croatia’s rapid harmonization of food legislation with EU legislation, information in this report should be double checked for obsolescence with the USDA office in Croatia
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09 Nov 2010
Netherlandantil
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
On October 10, 2010, the Netherlands Antilles was dissolved in favor of a new political arrangement which gives the larger and more developed islands of Curaçao and Sint Maarten greater autonomy, while redefining the three smaller islands as Dutch municipalitie
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09 Nov 2010
Trinidad And Tobago
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
U.S. Suppliers need to be mindful of certification requirements for agricultural products entering Trinidad and Tobago. Although Trinidad and Tobago is quite receptive to U.S. products and all required certificates can be readily obtained by U.S. suppliers, careful attention to certification details will help prevent costly customs clearance problems. This report outlines Trinidad and Tobago’s certification requirements and includes an Export Certificate Matrix as well as examples of select Export Certificates.
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28 Oct 2010
El Salvador
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Sections Updated: Section I. List of all Export Certificates Required by Government and Section II. Purpose of Specific Export Certificate (s).
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12 Oct 2010
Australia
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
All sections of this report have been reviewed and updated to reflect new or updated laws and regulations. Australia is a major producer of raw materials and processed foods, but imports a growing volume of food and beverages. Imports have increased steadily over recent years.
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27 Aug 2010
Ghana
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report was prepared by the Office of Agricultural Affairs of the USDA/Foreign Agricultural Service in Accra, Ghana for U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products. While every possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since it‟s preparation, or because clear and consistent information about these policies was not available.
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26 Jul 2010
Israel
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
In the current report the following sections have been updated:Heavy Metals in Foodstuffs - The Israeli Ministry of Health has increased monitoring on imported food products in recent months.; The maximum limits of the following food color additives E1520, E1518, and E1505 were changed.; Import Procedure paragraph was modified.; New requirements for the export of pet food from the United States to Israel.; Inspection of Animal Feed paragraph was modified.; Fish and Fish Products Import and Distribution system.
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21 Jul 2010
Nigeria
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report was prepared by the Office of Agricultural Affairs of the USDA/Foreign Agricultural Service in Lagos, Nigeria for U.S. exporters of domestic food and agricultural products. While every possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since it‟s preparation, or because clear information about these policies were not available. It is highly recommended that U.S. exporters verify the full set of import requirements with their foreign customers, who are normally best equipped to research such matters with local authorities, before any goods are shipped.
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11 May 2010
Oman
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Details on required certificates for the Sultanate of Oman are available inside this report.
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15 Apr 2010
Barbados
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides information on Barbados's regulatory environment as it relates to imports of U.S. agricultural products. Despite having certain licensing requirements for selected products and extensive labeling requirements for most foodstuffs, U.S. suppliers will find Barbados to be a relatively open market for most U.S. products.
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04 Apr 2010
Bahrain
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Details on Bahrain required export certificates are available inside this report
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21 Jan 2010
Nicaragua
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards
This report lists Nicaraguan import requirements for export certificates and import permits for agrochemicals, veterinary products, feedstuffs and processed food products.
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19 Oct 2009
Kuwait
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
Same as last year except section III which indicates that Kuwait Customs requires that the invoice and the country of origin certificate by notarized by the Arab American Chamber of Commerce.
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18 Oct 2009
Qatar
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
ASSESSMENTS OF COMMODITY AND TRADE ISSUES MADE BY USDA STAFF are not necessarily statements of official U.S. Government policy
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21 Sep 2009
Greece
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updated contact information for Greece and gives an overview of Greek food laws in the EU context. Information on EU Member State specific requirements can be found in the FAIRS reports prepared by the Offices of Agricultural Affairs in the individual EU Member States:
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17 Sep 2009
Jordan
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification
This report covers updates to Jordan's food and agricultural import regulations and standards.
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28 Aug 2009
France
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report is an overview of French food and agricultural import regulations which supplements the FAIRS GAIN Report for the European Union (E49058) dated August 7, 2009.
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13 Aug 2009
Taiwan
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report provides updates on Taiwan’s Food and Import Regulations with substantial revisions occurring in Section V, Pesticides and Other Containments, and in Section VI, Tariffs and Import Controls. In 2009, Taiwan employed stricter border maximum residue limit (MRL) controls but the authorities also dedicated more resources to address MRL applications of priority interest to trading partners including the U.S., though a substantial backlog remains. This report also provides expanded coverage of requirements for the importation of pet food into Taiwan.
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12 Aug 2009
Korea Republic
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
The new certification program for processed organic food products, the draft biotech labeling requirements, and the Special Act on Children‟s Dietary Life Safety Management have been added. Labeling requirements including the inner package labeling requirements for double packaged products and a restriction of the use of a picture/photo of ingredients for a product with synthetic flavors have been updated.
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31 Jul 2009
Dominic Republic
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Sections updated: I Food Laws and Government regulatory agency contacts. Appendix V Import Procedures.
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28 Jul 2009
Egypt Arab Republic
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Report highlights includes Section I : New and updated information; Section II: Updated information; Section III: No change; Section IV: No change; Section V: No change; Section VI: No change;Section VII: Updated information; Section VIII: Updated information; Section IX: No change
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Philippines
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
This report outlines Philippine government requirements for the importation of food and agricultural products. This report aims to assist U.S. exporters by providing information on labeling, packaging, permitted ingredients and other information. It also provides points of contact for key Philippine government authorities, U.S. government and trade associations. Sections I on Food Laws; IV on Other Regulations and VII on Animal Feed Ingredients have been updated.
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Syria
Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative
Syria is permitting gradual imports of processed foods and the list of permitted imports is expanding. An import permit is necessary. Shipment documents have to be notarized by the Syrian embassy in the country of origin. Syrian labeling regulations do not provide for GMO’s, organic foods, nutrient contents, additives, and pesticide residues. Food additives are permitted in general as long as they are permitted to be used in the country of origin. Syrian customs does not permit custom clearing of food stuffs if half the shelf life has passed.
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