Export certification changes will make things easier

It is not easy to export food from Australia. This is because we have some of the toughest food regulations in the world. It is the maintenance of these regulations that has given Australia a well earned reputation as one of the best food producers globally.

There are however a lot of regulations that businesses must meet to be able send and sell their food overseas and this can stop some from pursuing this potential; source of profit.

Recently the Federal Government’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) announced significant changes to these regulations to try make it easier for food exporters. However, it is a fine line that is being walked – trying to encourage business without impacting on our reputation and food safety. The changes will be for both food and agricultural exports.

The service models have been developed for all food export commodities, including meat, fish, dairy, grain, horticulture and live animal, and have taken two years of consultation with all stakeholders.

The models will be phased in over 2012 for all the industries.

Greg Read, DAFF’s Food Division secretary said, “These reforms will enhance Australia’s already world-class export certification system. Overall, agricultural export reform will secure and improve market access and position Australia’s inspection and certification processes at the forefront of export industries worldwide.”