EXPORTERS in Bahrain have been warned their shipments to Saudi Arabia could be denied entry at the border unless they meet strict export regulations.
Saudi Arabia has already introduced new rules on food imports, but additional documents will be required for consignments of drugs and medical devices.
The new rules will be implemented voluntarily from next month before becoming mandatory next August.
Only goods from exporters who possess specific certifications – including ISO 22000 and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) – will be accepted.
Officials from the Saudi Food and Drugs Authority (SFDA) said the documents should be uploaded 48 hours before the consignment arrives at the Saudi border for inspection.
“Saudi authorities are upgrading and streamlining their operations to ease the flow of consignments at their ports,” said Health Ministry assistant under-secretary for public health Dr Mariam Al Hajeri.
“There will be a grace period starting from next month until August next year, when the rules will be fully applicable to Bahraini traders.”
She said there was strong co-operation between Bahrain officials and the SFDA, adding that bodies had started issuing the required certificates and documents to businesses.
“Our offices are open for the traders to assist them,” she said during a workshop yesterday organised by the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI).
SFDA project director Abdulrahman Al Tarifi also attended to explain the new procedures.
“Traders should have all their documents ready for the physical inspection at the different Saudi port followed by a laboratory test in case of food and drugs items,” said Mr Al Tarifi.
Documents
“There is a grace period given for exporters to get the additional documents and certificates, so that they understand the updated Saudi consignment clearance rules.”
The Saudi official said the histories of exporters would be closely scrutinised as part of the new measures, meaning those who had consignments rejected in the past could face additional screening.
“If the documents and history of the importer is good, the consignment will be cleared within the set timeframe,” said Mr Al Tarifi.
“However, those that don’t meet the new rules could face delays – including their consignment being denied at the port of entry.”
Health Ministry food control section head Faisal Al Sari added the new rules were in line with unified GCC standards.
“The SFDA have added new requirements as part of unified GCC rules, which requires traders obtain more certificates and documents,” said Mr Al Sari.
Concern
“Different ministries are now working to issue these documents to traders and we are trying our level best to help businessmen.”
However, Bahraini exporters expressed concern about the new rules yesterday.
We understand the new clearance rules for food, drugs and medical equipment, but we need more clarity on its application,” one Bahraini exporter who transports food to Saudi Arabia said on condition of anonymity.
“Agencies in Bahrain should step up efforts to issue these documents.
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