Did you know there is a program to fast-track your imported foods across the US border? The Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP), a provision of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), provides expedited review and importation of human and animal foods for approved applicants.
To be eligible for the voluntary, user fee-based program, the facility must achieve and maintain a high level of control over the safety and security of their supply chains by ensuring compliance with all USFDA regulations, including FSVP or HACCP. Additionally the importer must have a current facility certification, three-year history of importing food into the U.S., a Quality Assurance Program (QAP), and no current or previously significant noncompliances.
The VQIP user fee is not insignificant, currently set at $9,999/year, but it can quickly pay for itself with some substantial benefits. The expedited entry provides for:
- Reduced delays at the border.
- Exam/sampling generally limited to “for cause” situations. When sampling is needed, it can be conducted at the food’s destination or location of importer’s choice.
- Expedited lab analysis.
- A dedicated Help Desk to assist with all VQIP matters.
With VQIP of particular benefit when shipping perishable foods (such as seafood and produce) or those with high fraud risk (such as spices), TAG India can help importers cut through the red tape of eligibility and get on the VQIP list faster and easier. We can assist with
- A pre-application gap assessment to ensure the site meets eligibility criteria.
- Remediation of any noncompliances with corrective actions
- Writing of the Quality Assurance Program (QAP)
- Sector specific training (e.g., Seafood HACCP, PCQI, etc.)
- Completing the application on VQIP portal
- Review of US-based FSVP programs of importers
For more information, view or listen to Fast Track Your Imports with VQIP
