Draft Guidance for Industry on the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program for Food Importers and Guidelines in Consideration of the Burden of the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program Fee Amounts on Small Business; Availability

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or Agency) is announcing the availability of a draft guidance for industry on the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP) for importers of human or animal food. The draft guidance describes VQIP, which provides for expedited review and importation of food offered for importation by importers who voluntarily agree to participate in the program. The draft guidance describes the eligibility criteria for, and benefits of, participation in VQIP. The draft guidance also provides information on submitting an application for VQIP participation, obtaining a facility certification for the foreign supplier of a food imported under VQIP, the VQIP user fee, conditions that might result in the revocation of VQIP eligibility, and criteria for reinstatement of eligibility. We are issuing the draft guidance in accordance with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act).