The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has posted its Food Export Control Policy online and in effect as of November 1, 2022. This policy outlines the principles the CFIA follows as Canada’s competent authority to verify compliance and certify food commodities for export. The policy also clarifies the responsibilities of exporters of food commodities.
If you are a food exporter then this food policy explains your responsibility for managing the food commodities exported under their control, such as: safety, acceptability for human consumption, authenticity, compliance with regulatory requirements and meeting additional importing country conditions.
Exporters are required to maintain a valid SFC licence and ensure that the food commodities they export are prepared and exported in accordance with the provisions outlined in the Safe Food for Canadians Act (SFCA) and or Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR). Where there is a non-compliance to a SFCA or SFCR requirement, CFIA can issue a regulatory non-compliance to the exporter.
CFIA can initiate regulatory response actions for regulatory non-compliances. These actions are in accordance with CFIA’s Compliance and Enforcement policy and supporting operational guidance documents.
For inquiries about this policy, contact the Director of Food Import/Export Division, International Programs Directorate, International Affairs Branch.