Take home:
- CNCA registration for wine and honey has finally been scheduled.
- The registration system will be developed by mid-2017.
- CNCA will also consider implementing a traceability system as part of wine registration process.
Recently, the Certification and Accreditation Administration of China (CNCA) held a meeting on the work plan for implementing the second phase of CNCA food manufacturer registration. During the meeting, the committee proposed two new CNCA registration projects namely honey and wine. CNCA will organize experts to research the development of the honey and wine registration system, review guidance, and train auditors to conduct onsite inspection. This process will culminate by June of 2017 and we can expect the implementation of the new regime thereafter.
Honey Manufacturer Registration with CNCA
The possibilities of registration for imported honey has been mentioned many times by officials (see CL Food News on 22 Sep 2015 and 30 Mar 2016). According to trusted Chemlinked sources, the honey registration project started in April. Initially the focus is on building the registration review guidance and training of auditors. It is worth noting that, the key part of the registration review will focus on the audit of bee farms including audit on associated flora, bee disease prevention measures, honey process and testing facilities.
Wine Manufacturer Registration with CNCA
Wine will be the first alcoholic product to require registration with CNCA. Experts will focus on developing a registration questionnaire, registration model and review process with regard to the wine production process, product and food additive standards and critical risk control point. Moreover, due to the large amount of fake imported wine, the CNCA plans to launch a traceability system for pre-packaged wine as part of the registration requirement.
China CNCA registration of overseas manufacturers is a compulsory onsite inspection, audit and registration system required for all imported food. Only products sourced from registered manufacturers can be permitted export to China. Currently, the system is being phased in gradually starting with the high risk products. The following four food types must be currently registered with CNCA prior to entering China:
- Aquatic products
- Meat
- Dairy products
- Birds nest
Overseas honey and wine enterprises are advised to monitor the regulatory status and prepare for the registration in advance.
Regulatory Compliance Guidance: Exporting Honey Products to China
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