[Updated] Singapore Introduces New Pre-import Control Measures as a Voluntary Scheme for Infant Cereal Products

Updated

On March 13, 2023, SFA announced the introduction of a new set of pre-import control measures for infant cereal products as a voluntary scheme with effect from 27 March 2023. SFA also provides the template supplier verification checklist and supplier registration form.

Disclosed by a WTO Notification on December 22, 2022, Singapore planned to introduce new pre-import control measures as a voluntary scheme for infant cereal products. The current measures are still in effect and remain unchanged for importers who choose not to join the voluntary scheme. These new pre-import requirements will be uploaded on the SFA website when they enter into force after the 60-day comment period.

Major content of the new scheme:

• Importers under the new scheme will be exempted from the current requirement for Aflatoxin B1 testing for every consignment.

• The manufacturer of infant cereal products must have a food safety management and assurance programme, such as relevant testing and monitoring, including those for Aflatoxin B1.

• Importers shall register their suppliers with the Singapore Food Agency (SFA).

• Supplier documentation and laboratory reports are not required to be submitted to SFA but must be kept up to date and be subject to SFA checks.