In general the following documents would be required for food companies wishing to export :
- Licence for import/export/transshipment of meat, meat products and fish products (if applicable)
- An export permit (this can be applied through AVA)
- A health certificate (subject to requirement from the importing country and product type)
- A free sale certificate (subject to requirement from the importing country and product type)
Some countries like the EU and the US require the processing establishment to be registered or pre-approved with their authorities prior to export commencement.
In cases where products of animal or plant origins are exported, a Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) certificate is also required. This document certifies that the animal or plant produce and their related products have been officially inspected in the country of origin and comply with the requirements of importing country. The adoption of SPS measures is enforced with objectives to protect animal, plant or human life or health from risk arising from the entry, establishment of spread of pests. diseases, disease-carrying organisms or disease causing organisms; as well as from risks arising from additives, contaminants, toxins or disease-causing organisms in food, beverages or feedstuffs, which will lead to the minimisation of negative effects on trade.
As export documentation requirements from importing countries may change from time to time, exporters are advised to confirm with their importers if any other additional documents are needed.
For more information on the different types of the certificates required for export, please
click here.