The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a Food import notice to inform importers that on February 12, 2024, the CFIA will activate the automatic verification of Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) licences for imports of manufactured foods.
Food import transactions will be automatically rejected unless a valid SFC licence is declared.
The CFIA has also updated its guidance on Importing food with a valid Safe Food for Canadians licence.
If you import food into Canada, refer to this guidance for more information on automatic licence verification and the steps you can take to make sure your SFC licence is valid.
Holding a valid SFC licence before you submit your import declaration will help to prevent your food shipment from being delayed at the border.
If you have questions about applying for or amending an SFC licence, visit the CFIA’s Food licences page. Refer to Food imports for more information on food import requirements.
CFIA inspectors will begin sending information letters to importers with licensing errors via email, to ensure a valid licence is on file to avoid delays at the border.
As a reminder, importers who do not have a valid SFC licence on or after February 12, 2024, their transaction will be rejected and their shipment will be denied entry into Canada.
Questions or concerns can be directed to the Willson International Service team.