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Importation and Exportation of Food and Drinks
Last updated: 20 Sept 2022
The government requires all food products imported into Brunei Darussalam (regardless if they came by land, sea or air) to be registered in order to ensure that food imported and distributed in Brunei Darussalam are safe for consumption, complies with the Public Health (Food) Act, (Chapter 182); and the Public Health (Food) Regulations, (R1, Chapter 182).
HOW TO IMPORT FOOD FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES
The government requires all food products imported into Brunei Darussalam (regardless if they came by land, sea or air) to be registered in order to ensure that food imported and distributed in Brunei Darussalam:
a. are safe for consumption; and
b. complies with the:
c. Public Health (Food) Act, (Chapter 182); and
d. the Public Health (Food) Regulations, (R1, Chapter 182).
However, if you are importing the food for personal use, further information can be found here.
1. Check which government agency the product is controlled by
Before importation, it is important to determine which government agency is responsible for the product.
For example, if you are importing processed foods such as sauces, spices or confectioneries, you are required to register with the FSQCD. Further information on products and commodities controlled by other government agencies can be found here. If the product is processed food, then you can proceed with number 2. If not, then you are advised to contact the relevant government agency for further information on their importation process.
2. Ensure that the food product complies with relevant legislation
The importer must ensure that the product complies to the relevant legislation. This includes ensuring that pre-packaged food product complies to the general labelling and advertisement requirements as stated in the Public Health (Food) Regulations, (R1, Chapter 182).
More information on food labelling and advertisement can be found here.
3. Apply for Food Import Registration
The food import registration process is a platform for authorized food officers to assess the safety and compliance of the food. This assessment is crucial in ensuring that the ingredients within the food are safe for consumption.
Further information on Food Import Registration can be found here.
4. Apply for import permit
Once registered, the importer can then declare their goods at the Royal Customs & excise Department, Ministry of Finance, for clearance.
Further information can be found here.
EXPORTATION OF FOOD
If a local manufacturer, vendor or trader wants to export their product into another country, either for sale, exhibitions or any other purposes, they must first:
1. Check the requirements of the importing country
Before exporting, it is best to check the requirements of the country you wish to export to. Different countries have different requirements and conditions in relation to the type of food that can be imported, its standard, safety and hygiene. Different food commodities may also require compliance to requirements of one or more authority.
It is recommended to liaise with their foreign counterpart for to better understand the requirements as it is easier for them to check the information with their local authority.
2. If required by the exporting country, apply for Export (Health) Certificate
The documents required by the exporting country may vary. If the country requests for health or export certification, then they can request for Export (Health) Certificate from our Division.
It is also important to note that not all countries require export (health) certificate but require other forms of documents to verify their safety and hygiene.
Click here to know how to apply for the Export (Health) Certificate.