According to our sources China CIQ is in process of updating its label filing system for imported prepackaged foods. After the new version is launched, labels will have ID numbers and be subject to spot check by CIQ officials. Currently importers or agents need to apply for label filing of prepackaged foods with local CIQ at first import as stipulated by “Administrative Provisions on the Inspection and Supervision of labels of Imported and Exported Foods”. Generally, the following materials should be submitted for filing:
A sample of the original label and translated version of the original labels;
A sample of Chinese label;
Business license of the importer, distributor or agent mentioned on the label;
Other supporting documents if the label emphasizes a specific item, such as wards, certificates, etc. or highlights nutritional ingredients
After receiving these documents, CIQ officials conduct a compliance review on the label after which compliant labels are issued a filing number. Under the updated scheme, CIQ won’t check all labels but randomly select the ID numbers of labels which then needs to be reviewed.
This potential change is an attempt by CIQs to reduce their administrative burden as the volume of imported foods increases. It doesn’t mean the regulations and supervision on labels will be loosened. Incompliant labels that slip through CIQ spot checks are still faced with post-market supervision conducted by local food and drug administrations. With the implementation of China AQSIQ blacklist (see CL Food News on 15 Oct 2014) the consequences of incompliance is more serious than before. In addition, more stringent punitive measures and rectification measures will be applied to unqualified labels under the new Food Safety Law which will come into force as of Oct 1 2015.
In China it is the government rather than individual food companies that bear the brunt of public backlash after food safety issues occur. This regulatory reform will free local CIQs from the excessive administrative burden imposed by label compliance checking and place the onus on food companies and the public in regulating and policing food safety in China. The timeline for implementation of this change have not been outlined by government.
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