A : → In TDC's SME News Flash dated 23.9.2003, it was stated that under the US Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002, all companies that process food for consumption in the US must register with the FDA, and prior notice must be given of all food products imported into the US. We want to know who will submit the prior notice and when must prior notice be submitted.
A : → Under the proposed act a purchaser or importer (or their qualified agent) who maintains a place of business in the US will be required to submit prior notice of the importation of food. The notice must be made by noon the calendar day before the day that the imported food arrives at the border crossing at the port of entry. The prior notice may not be submitted more than 5 days before arrival at a US port.
Q : → Can any one tell me that if I would like to register my product (pet food) in US now, do I need to have "food-agent" to do the registration for me? Can I do it by myself?
A : → The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed regulations requiring manufacturers and exporters of food products to register their products by 12 December 2003 with the FDA through an appointed US agent prior to importation. Details can be found at the TDC website: http://www.tdctrade.com/alert/us0311f.htm. As the FDA has yet issued a final rule containing the registration requirements and the final registration form for facilities to use to register, the agency list is not available as of present. For details please refer to: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/fsbtnote.html
