On November 15, 2024, a significant development took place in China's regulatory landscape. The General Administration of Customs (GAC) presented the amended Measures for the Supervision and Administration of Inspection and Quarantine for Imported and Exported Feed and Feed Additives. This draft Measures is now open for public comments, marking an important step in ensuring the safety of pet foods during import clearance. Pet foods in China are classified as feed products and are thus subject to GAC's strict supervision and management. The proposed regulation builds upon the existing framework and covers crucial aspects such as import inspection and quarantine, overseas manufacturer registration, and legal responsibilities for violations.

Enhanced Oversight and Regulatory Changes

The draft newly emphasizes that imported pet foods will be subject to sampling and testing in line with national biological safety monitoring and risk management requirements. It also includes provisions that allow GAC to take action against overseas registered manufacturers if their products fail import inspection and quarantine. This could involve tightening inspection and quarantine procedures, ordering rectification, suspending the import of related products, or even revoking relevant registrations. These measures demonstrate the authority's commitment to strengthening oversight and ensuring the safety of imported and exported pet foods, based on years of experience in inspecting and quarantining these products.

Import Inspection and Quarantine Details

The revised Measures adjust from the original 70 articles to 76 articles, with 54 articles revised, 14 added, and 8 deleted. This shows the meticulous attention to detail in updating the regulatory framework. During import inspection and quarantine, strict protocols are in place to ensure the quality and safety of pet foods. The GAC conducts thorough examinations to identify any potential risks and take appropriate actions. This includes checking for compliance with labeling regulations, ingredient composition, and other relevant requirements. By implementing these measures, China aims to provide consumers with safe and reliable pet foods.

Overseas Manufacturer Registration and Responsibilities

Overseas manufacturers of compound pet feed and pet additive premix feed must obtain an import registration license from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) before exporting pet foods to China. This requirement ensures that only qualified manufacturers can supply pet foods to the Chinese market. Additionally, all ingredients and additives used in pet food manufacturing must have appropriate regulatory status under the positive lists issued by the authority. The Labeling Regulations for Pet Feed serve as a crucial guide, detailing mandatory labeling items and product claims. This helps consumers make informed decisions and ensures that pet foods are labeled accurately and transparently.

Parallel Sales via Online CBEC Platforms

It is interesting to note that some companies choose to sell pet foods in China through online cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) platforms alongside traditional trade routes. This provides consumers with more options and convenience. However, these online sales also come with regulatory requirements and oversight. The GAC and MARA ensure that pet foods sold through CBEC platforms meet the same safety and quality standards as those sold through traditional channels. This helps maintain the integrity of the pet food market and protects the health and well-being of pets.In conclusion, the amended Measures for Imported and Exported Feed and Feed Additives in China represent a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and quality of pet foods. Through enhanced oversight, strict regulatory requirements, and attention to detail, China is committed to providing consumers with safe and reliable pet food products. These measures will have a positive impact on the pet food industry and the well-being of pets in China.