China GAC to Revise Imported Prepackaged Food Labeling Inspection Requirements

As revealed by an internal document released at the end of February, China GAC is soliciting opinions on “Administrative Measures for Imported and Exported Prepackaged Food Labeling Inspection”. Label filing for prepackaged food imported for the first time is proposed to be cancelled. If passed successfully the new requirements will mean label inspection for foods imported for the first time will be regarded as a normal sampling inspection item for customs release.

Importers will bear the major responsibility for food label regulatory compliance and they are obliged to check the products’ Chinese label prior to customs release. If the food label violates national standards importers will be subject to severe punishments.

Inspection on labels of foods imported for exhibition, free-duty operation (excluding offshore duty-free) and imported through CBEC channel will be subject to different requirements.