In the November 14, 2016, Federal Register, FDA announced the availability of a guidance for industry titled "FDA's Voluntary Qualified Importer Program." The guidance describes the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program ("VQIP"), which provides for expedited review and importation of food offered for importation by importers who voluntarily agree to participate in the program. The guidance describes the eligibility criteria for, and benefits of, participation in VQIP. The 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. FDA plans to begin accepting applications for VQIP on January 1, 2018, for participation in fiscal year 2019 beginning October 1, 2018.
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