FDA Seeks Comments on Its Qualified Food Importer Program
Published Date: 11/12/2026
Notice
Summary
The FDA wants your thoughts on collecting info for its Voluntary Qualified Importer Program, which helps speed up importing safe food. Importers who join this program could get faster reviews, saving time and money. You’ve got until January 11, 2027, to share your comments and help shape the process!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Significant application and recordkeeping time burdens
FDA estimates that the VQIP information collection creates reporting burdens totaling 1,480 hours annually and recordkeeping burdens totaling 1,280 hours annually, for a combined increase of 2,740 hours and 34 responses. Example per-activity estimates include 180 hours for an initial VQIP application (Form FDA 4041) and 160 hours to prepare a Quality Assurance Program (QAP).
Faster import reviews for participating importers
If you import human or animal food into the United States and join FDA's Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP), you may get expedited review and import entry so your products can move into the U.S. with greater speed and predictability. The notice says participants can avoid unexpected delays at the point of import entry.
Mandatory user fee to join VQIP
To participate in VQIP you must pay a user fee that covers FDA's administration of the program. FDA will publish the applicable fee schedule for VQIP annually in the Federal Register.
Non-U.S. entities may qualify as VQIP importers
You can be a VQIP importer even if you are located outside the United States. The notice says persons who bring food into U.S. customs territory—including manufacturers, owners, consignees, and importers of record—may be VQIP importers if they meet eligibility criteria.
Guidance allows adding suppliers year-round and extended deadlines
FDA's November 2024 guidance revision clarified the Agency's approach to VQIP inspections, allowed participants to add new foreign suppliers and foods to their existing VQIP programs throughout the year, and extended the deadline for submitting a notice of intent and application. These changes affect how and when participants can manage their VQIP participation.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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