Setting up as an importer

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shazman
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Setting up as an importer

Post by shazman » Wed Oct 07, 2009 8:43 am

Hi Guys,

Im thinking of setting up as an importer of food and drink. Are there any special rules to consider before I can start? Or do I even need a permit?


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Setting up as an importer

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onkko
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Re: Setting up as an importer

Post by onkko » Wed Oct 07, 2009 9:35 am

Depends if you plan import drinks with alcohol then you need permission from www.valvira.fi and there is restrictions atleast on animal based products, check www.evira.fi
You need also add product info/warnings in finnish and swedish in your products, that also is controlled by evira.
So tulli (customs), evira (Finnish Food Safety Authority) and possibly valvira (National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health) are places you should check.
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Upphew
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Re: Setting up as an importer

Post by Upphew » Wed Oct 07, 2009 10:13 am

shazman wrote:Im thinking of setting up as an importer of food and drink. Are there any special rules to consider before I can start? Or do I even need a permit?
Genetically modified is the new buzzword that regulators like, so you should know if your food contains any. Or your food has eaten any. Also other consumer related directives are good to know, and obey, if you intend to keep doing business: http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/ ... dex_en.htm
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Rosamunda
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Re: Setting up as an importer

Post by Rosamunda » Wed Oct 07, 2009 12:44 pm

My understanding is that if you are storing the food prior to resale (eg in a warehouse or wherever) you would need a Food Hygiene Certificate and also a licence from your municipality who would inspect and approve the premises and your hygiene protocol (re preparation methods and machinery, water supply, ventilation, waste etc) before operations commence (pretty much the same as if you were selling food in a shop or a restaurant).

Food premises mean any building or premises or part thereof or other outdoor or indoor space in which food meant for sale or conveyance is prepared, stored, transported, marketed, served or otherwise handled.

All the info should be on Evira (see the links mentioned above)


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