Positive changes to process for importing food into New Zealand

From 1 July 2009, the New Zealand Food Safety Authority Verification Agency (NZFSAVA) will manage all NZFSA’s border clearance procedures for imported food.  NZFSAVA will do clearance related activities including sampling and verification.  This activity is currently performed by Auckland Central Clearing House (ACCH) and Public Health Units.  NZFSA staff members are working closely with ACCH to ensure a smooth and timely transition, and look forward to making the process of clearing foods for import simpler and quicker.  

Obligations on food importers under the Food Act 1981 remain the same.  Further information on imported foods can be found at Imported Food Website: http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/imported-food/index.htm  

The change from ACCH to NZFSAVA is part of the work identified by the Imported Food Review to align roles and responsibilities and improve efficiency at the border.   

From 1 July 2009, all NZFSA import permit applications should be sent to:  

Central Clearing House
NZFSA Verification Agency
Level 1, 96 New North Road, Eden Terrace, Auckland
PO Box 3540, Eden Terrace, Auckland
Email: imported.food@nzfsa.govt.nz
Fax: 09 909 6208
Phone: 09 909 6210 or 09 909 6211  

NZFSAVA will be working with importers and Customs Agents to ensure that the transition is as smooth as possible.   

There will be two seminars in Auckland to outline the changes to food importers and Customs Agents. These seminars are also an opportunity for importers to meet key NZFSA and VA staff in the imported food area.  

Date: 11 June 2009
Venue: Centra Auckland Airport, Corner Kirkbride and Ascot Roads, Mangere, Auckland
Time:  9:00 am – 12:00 noon or 1.30pm – 4.30pm  

To express interest in attending please email your contact details to imported.food@nzfsa.govt.nz with ‘Importer Seminar’ in the subject line and indicate which session time you want to attend.  Spaces are limited to the first 50 people to respond.  

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