The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) has reviewed the import requirements of the infant formulas to allow Fijians to have access to a variety of patented infant formulas. These formulas are ones that have met the requirements of the Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) and are approved for sale in Australia and New Zealand.

BAF executive chairman Xavier Khan said BAF supported breastfeeding and national breastfeeding programmes. However, he said there are some mothers who are unable to express milk or breastfeed their babies because of lactating or other issues.

“Having a wider variety of brands of infant formula will provide these mothers an opportunity to make an informed and educated decision on what is good for their babies,” he said.

“There are also some babies who have allergy issues so a wider variety of infant formula will give them varied choices.”

Mr Khan said BAF will allow up to 10kg/22.04lbs of the infant formula to be imported into Fiji from Australia and New Zealand for personal consumption per individual person. He said any import above 10kg/22.04lbs will be regarded as a commercial import requiring an import permit.

He said infant formula will only be allowed into Fiji from Australia if it is accompanied with a retail outlet receipt stating the quantity which is 10kg or 22.04lbs

For commercial imports, the following is required:

             A valid BAF import permit for the imported infant formula.

             Manufacturers Declaration.

             The infant formula must be commercially processed, manufactured and not partially processed or a homemade product or an intermediate product.

             Labels on the package of infant formula must be in English language and fulfill the following :

             State country of manufacturing and country of origin

             Must have ingredient list with percentage composition of each ingredient.

According to Mr Khan, the patented infant formula must be declared and the import is subject to inspection at port of entry for biosecurity purposes.

He said entry of the patented infant formula may change without notification depending on the animal disease status of country of origin.

“The patented infant formula must be shelf stable, commercially prepared and packaged, in its original packaging on arrival with the country of origin identifiable on the packaging.”

Mr Khan advised people to contact BAF on 331-2512 for any further clarification or information related to import of infant formula.

Minister for Health Rosy Akbar said the Ministry encourages exclusive breastfeeding from birth to six months of age, and with supplementary foods from beyond six months.

“The Ministry also understands that there are circumstances that may not allow a mother to exclusively breastfeed their babies, therefore we are encouraging mothers to make an informed decision on the choice of milk that is best suited for their babies.

“The Ministry trusts that BAF will conduct this importation of infant formula with outmost scrutiny and diligence to ensure that only the safe and quality infant formula is procured, safeguarding the future of our children,” Ms Akbar said.

Source: Biosecurity Authority of Fiji

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