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For Your Information: F8/09 Venezuela Food Regulations

New Zealand Food Safety Authority
Date: 2 February 2009
From: John Lee, Market Access Counsellor (North America)

1 Background

1.1 NZFSA has received advice that Venezuela passed a number of new food related decrees in July 2008 which became public in August 2008. These changes are likely to be quite restrictive in a number of areas of food trade with that country.

1.2 The changes are protectionist in nature as they primarily aim to guarantee a market for domestic production of identified products. For example a temporary suspension of imports of beef, milk, cheese and poultry was introduced.

1.3 New labelling requirements under the “Law for the Defence of the People in the Access to Goods” require all labels to be presented in Spanish and they must be authorised by the Ministry of Health (MINSALUD). In some instances the Spanish label cannot be attached by sticker but be stamped, sealed or printed with indelible ink.

2 Recommendation

2.1 Intending exporters are advised to closely liaise with their importer/agent regarding:

a. Permits to import;

b. Certification requirements;

c. Labelling requirements.

2.2 Certification requirements should be discussed with NZFSA before entering into any contract arrangements to ensure that they can be met.

Disclaimer: This ‘For Your Information’ is intended for use as a guideline only and should not be taken as definitive or exhaustive. NZFSA endeavours to keep this information current and accurate. However, it may be subject to change without notice. NZFSA will not accept liability for any loss resulting from reliance on this information.