The Saudi Food & Drugs Authority (SFDA) has announced the implementation of the Food Consignment Certificate of Conformity program which will be supported by Complia in order to assure Saudi consumers of the safety and quality of the imported foodstuffs they purchase.

“In line with the objectives of the SFDA in facilitating the procedures of consignments of importing foodstuffs through the border crossing points in coordination with the General Authority for Customs, the Authority would like to announce to all food importers the signing of the “Certificate of Conformity for food Program” with Complia International Riyadh and Saudi Industrial Inspection Services Company”

This programme aims, under the supervision and management of the SFDA, to provide safe products to consumers as well as a speedy and direct Customs release of imported foods since the consignments will be verified and certified at the country of origin which allows their fast track clearance.

Food consignments will be subject to audit, inspection and testing prior to shipment. Exporters and importers will need to ensure that regulated food products for the Saudi Arabia market are fully compliant with Saudi Food law and regulations for quality, safety and suitability and they have obtained the Certificate of Conformity prior to shipment.

Consignments arriving to Saudi Arabia without Food Certificates of Conformity will be subject to local testing which will slow the Customs Clearance process while the ones holding Food Certificates of Conformity from Complia will follow a fast track to be released by Customs.

Importers and exporters will also have to ensure that their suppliers are informed about the quality and safety requirements for Food products and that their consignments will need to be accompanied by a Food Consignment Certificate of Conformity from Complia.