Navigating the New CFIA Import Requirements for Pet Supplements

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) plans to revamp the import regulations for pet supplements that include animal products and by-products. This change aims to modernize and simplify the process and will be implemented on June 24, 2024. Universal Logistics is available to assist you in navigating these upcoming changes to ensure a smooth transition for your business.

Key Changes to Import Requirements

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has acknowledged the need to update the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) to better reflect the variety of pet supplements available in the market. To achieve this, pet supplements will be classified into three distinct categories starting from June 24, 2024:

1. Pet supplements that do not contain any animal-origin ingredients.
2. Pet supplements containing only highly processed animal-origin ingredients.
3. Pet supplements containing animal-origin ingredients that are not highly processed.

This simplified categorization aims to make it easier for importers to identify and comply with regulations.

Highly Processed vs. Non-Highly Processed Ingredients:

• It's important to note that certain animal-based ingredients such as albumin, bee products, and chondroitin sulphate undergo heavy processing, while other non-highly processed ingredients include natural products like meat, organs, and offal, as well as rendered animal products.
• Recently, the requirements for zoosanitary certification for pet supplements containing animal-origin ingredients have been significantly updated. These certificates will provide more flexibility by allowing the official veterinarian of the exporting country to specify ingredients and certify different types of supplements in the same shipment, as long as they belong to the same category of highly processed or non-highly processed.

Importance of Compliance and How Universal Logistics Can Help

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced that there will be no transition period for the upcoming changes. It is important to be well-prepared by the deadline of June 24, 2024. It is crucial for businesses that import pet supplements to Canada to understand these new requirements. Failure to comply could result in delays, refused shipments, and additional costs.

At Universal Logistics, we are committed to helping our clients navigate these changes smoothly and efficiently. Our team, headed by Brian Rowe, Director of Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs, is always available to provide expertise and support in adjusting to the new CFIA requirements. Our services include determining the correct categorization for your products and ensuring that all necessary documentation is in order. We are here to assist you every step of the way.

Stay Informed and Prepared

We recommend that all importers become familiar with the detailed changes and review the new Notice to Industry on the CFIA website to find the specific wording of zoosanitary certificates. Proper planning and preparation are crucial to adapting to these updates without negatively impacting your business operations.

If you have any questions about how these changes may affect your imports or need assistance with your importation strategy, please contact Brian Rowe at Universal Logistics. Additionally, the CFIA's Animal Products and By-Products import inbox and your local CFIA office are excellent resources for specific inquiries.

As June 24, 2024, approaches, Universal Logistics can be your partner in ensuring that your pet supplement imports comply with the latest CFIA requirements, helping your business to continue thriving in this regulated environment.