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When it comes to importing food products such as poultry, fish, aquatic products of animal origin, and eggs into Saudi Arabia, obtaining an import permit from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is a crucial step. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to apply for and secure these essential permits for your business.
Scope and Application
This guide is specifically applicable to food establishments applying for an import permit for the following categories of food products:
Poultry and Poultry Products: This includes frozen or chilled poultry meat, parts of poultry, canned products, processed, and semi-processed poultry meat.
Fish and Aquatic Products of Animal Origin: This encompasses fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and other aquatic products, either frozen or chilled, as well as their canned, processed, or semi-processed forms.
Eggs and Egg Products: Products such as whole eggs, liquid eggs, egg yolks (liquid or frozen), and egg powder are also included in this category.
Conditions for Obtaining an Import Permit
To apply for an import permit, food establishments must meet the following requirements:
Approved Countries and Establishments: Products must only be imported from countries and establishments approved by the SFDA, based on their official website.
Conformity with SFDA Regulations: All imported products must meet the technical regulations, standard specifications, and relevant decisions set by the SFDA.
Non-Permanent Establishments: If importing from a non-permanent establishment, the approval must follow the specified procedures available on the SFDA website.
Product Registration: The product to be imported must be registered in the SFDA’s electronic system for registering imported food products (IFRS).
Establishment Registration: The foreign establishment from which the product is being imported must be registered in the SFDA’s electronic system for registering foreign establishments (FERS).
Import Permit Application Process
To initiate the process of obtaining an import permit, follow these steps:
Submit a Request: The importer must submit an import permission request letter to the SFDA Operations Sector in Riyadh. This request must include:
Name of the establishment and its approval number.
Country of origin of the products.
Type of product to be imported.
Additionally, the following documents must be attached:
A copy of the payment document for the import permit fee.
A copy of the commercial registration of the importer.
A copy of the proforma or purchase invoice.
A copy of the payment documents for inspection services (if an inspection visit is required).
An export plan outlining the quantity to be exported to Saudi Arabia every six months, including the establishment’s monthly production capacity and the percentage allocated for the Saudi market.
Processing Time: Once the application is submitted, the process will be completed within thirty working days from the date of submission.
Issuance of Import Permit: Upon approval, the import permit will be issued for the products.
General Conditions
Product Limitation: The import permit is strictly limited to the products specified in this guide.
Permit Cancellation: If epidemic diseases or food contamination are detected in the country of origin, or if the establishment’s approval is canceled, the import permit will be revoked. SFDA is not responsible for any consequences caused by this cancellation.
Additional Documentation: SFDA reserves the right to request additional certificates, reports, or statements during the import permit process.
Appeals: If the application is rejected, the applicant may inquire about the reasons for rejection. Within fifteen days from the rejection, a grievance can be submitted to the head of the SFDA. If needed, the decision can be escalated to the Board of Grievances for further legal procedures
Conclusion
Securing an import permit for poultry, fish, aquatic products, and eggs in Saudi Arabia is a structured process aimed at ensuring food safety and compliance with SFDA regulations. By following the outlined steps and meeting all conditions, food establishments can navigate the permit application process smoothly.
For more information and to begin the process, Contact us today.
