Starting from Jan. 2009 importers and manufacturers dealing with food and medicine will be required to hold a license from the national registry as well as approval from the Food and Drug Authority (FDA). Muhammad Al-Kanhal, executive director of FDA, announced the changes at the inauguration of a workshop titled “Food Law” on Saturday. He said within the next two weeks the FDA will sign a three year contract with the German FDA to jointly monitor food being imported in the Kingdom. Over 450 professionals will receive training for three months in Germany. The FDA will work with several agencies including customs agents to monitor the imports of medicine and food, he said. Al-Kanhal said regulations for animal feed are in the final stages of drafting because of potential health risks presented by unregulated animal feed. The FDA, created in 2007, was authorized by the Shoura Council after Crown Prince Sultan Bin Abdul Aziz intiated the organization in the early 90's. The Kingdom imports over 60 percent of its food from over 200 countries Al-Kanhal said. He said 29 entry points have been opened in the Kingdom will be organized from a head office in Riyadh. The FDA's board of directors are currently discussing regulations for medical equipment, cosmetics and herbal medicine. – Okaz __
