NSF International in Ann Arbor Helps Firms Navigate New Business Regulations in China

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Ann Arbor's NSF International has introduced a new suite of services to help businesses meet new regulations for overseas producers in China. // Courtesy of NSF International
Ann Arbor’s NSF International has introduced a new suite of services to help businesses meet new regulations for overseas producers in China. // Courtesy of NSF International

NSF International, a global public health and safety organization based in Ann Arbor, has announced a new suite of services to support businesses that will soon be required to meet the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) rules for overseas producers.

The new regulations, which went into effect Jan. 1, include the Registration and Administration of Overseas Producers of Imported Food (Decree 248) and the Administrative Measures on Import and Export Food Safety (Decree 249).

To help businesses meet the two decrees, NSF is now offering the following services:

  • Step-by-step navigation through the China Import Food Enterprises platform and assistance with the obtainment of product registration numbers.
  • Labeling and packaging consulting services that support package design and labeling assurance.
  • Training on importing food safety-related laws and regulations.

“Managing regulatory changes from countries around the globe is a constant challenge for businesses in the food industry,” says John Rowley, vice president of the global food division at NSF. “In recent years, events such as Brexit, national elections, new trade agreements and import and export rules such as those recently introduced in China have made it critical for companies to stay ahead and adapt.

“With our international team of experts and local presence in China, NSF is committed to providing businesses with clarity and confidence in navigating these everchanging rules and regulations, grounded in years of experience and training in the intricacies of food labelling.”

At present, the rules affect businesses across the supply chain, including food producers, processors, storage facilities, and more that fall within the following categories: meat and meat products, sausage casings, aquatic products, dairy products, and many more. A full list of businesses affected by the regulation can be found at the bottom of the article.

The Registration and Administration of Overseas Producers of Imported Food (Decree 248) requires businesses across the food supply chain to complete registration for any products being exported into the country via the China Import Food Enterprises platform. Foods are divided into risk categories that determine which actions must be taken to meet the regulation. Once registered, products must include the assigned registration number in both their inner and their outer packaging.

The Administrative Measures on Import and Export Food Safety (Decree 249) replaces several regulations and covers a broad range of requirements, including the evaluation and review of foreign food safety management systems; overseas facilities registration; record filing by importers, exporters, and commercial agents; quarantine and inspection; product labeling; and food safety risk, among others.

Businesses seeking assistance with meeting the new regulations can contact NSF for assistance in their home country or in China.

NSF International China has offices in Shanghai and Qingdao. The downtown Shanghai office was recently relocated to better serve clients. The new space includes offices in addition to meeting areas. For more information, visit NSF International’s website.

List of businesses affected by new regulation:

  • Meat and meat products
  • Sausage casings
  • Aquatic products
  • Dairy products
  • Bird’s nest and bird’s nest products
  • Bee products
  • Eggs and egg products
  • Edible fat and oil materials
  • Stuffed pasta
  • Edible grains
  • Industrial products of grain flour and malt
  • Fresh, preserved, and dehydrated vegetables and dried beans
  • Condiments
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Dried fruits
  • Unbaked coffee beans and cacao beans
  • Special dietary food and health food