Since the implementation of Hygienic Requirements for Bulk Transportation of Edible Vegetable Oils (GB 44917) on February 1, 2025, import and export enterprises in the edible vegetable oil industry have diligently complied with the relevant requirements, effectively ensuring the quality and safety of imported bulk edible vegetable oils. To further enhance comprehensive supervision of imported edible vegetable oil throughout the supply chain, the General Administration of Customs (GACC) has issued the Announcement on Requirements for Storage and Transportation of Imported Bulk Edible Vegetable Oil (hereinafter referred to as the "Announcement"). This document specifies material standards, cleaning protocols, and maintenance requirements for transportation vehicles and containers, while reinforcing management practices for the storage and transportation of imported bulk edible vegetable oil. It also emphasizes the primary responsibilities of food production and operation enterprises, clarifying requirements for storage, transportation, and customs declaration procedures. The following provides an interpretation of the Announcement's contents.
1. What are the requirements specified in the announcement regarding transport containers for imported bulk edible vegetable oils?
The announcement explicitly requires that storage tanks and transport containers for imported bulk edible vegetable oils must be constructed from inert materials (with stainless steel being the most suitable) that are non-reactive with edible oils and food-grade. The use of copper or copper alloy tanks is strictly prohibited to prevent metal ion migration and oil contamination. Oil storage tanks and transport containers must be maintained in clean and sanitary conditions, with regular maintenance inspections conducted. All ancillary components including oil pipelines, pipe fittings, valves, seals, and heating coils attached to storage tanks and transport containers must comply with the material specifications outlined in the Standard Operating Procedures for Bulk Edible Oil Storage and Transportation (CXC36-2024). For imported bulk edible vegetable oils transported in disposable containers such as flexitank bags, the regulations mandate that such containers must be manufactured from clean, sterile, food-grade materials suitable for direct food contact. These containers must be single-use within their designated shelf life and are strictly prohibited from reuse.
2. What are the announcement's requirements regarding previous cargo and import declaration for containers transporting imported bulk edible vegetable oil?
In accordance with CXC36-2024, the Announcement has updated both the Codex Alimentarius Acceptable Previous Cargo List and the Codex Alimentarius Prohibited Recent Cargo List. It specifies that tanks (or holds) used for edible vegetable oil must have previously carried either food items or products listed in the Acceptable Previous Cargo List. Tanks that have transported items from the Prohibited Recent Cargo List are strictly prohibited for such use. For imported bulk edible vegetable oil transported in reusable containers, domestic importers or their agents must submit documentation listing all cargo carried by the transport vessel during its last three voyages when making import declarations.
3. What transportation requirements does the announcement specify for imported bulk edible vegetable oil from port of entry to final destination?
The announcement specifies that imported bulk edible vegetable oil must meet the requirements of GB44917-2024 during transportation from ports to destinations. Carriers are required to obtain appropriate transport qualifications and utilize dedicated means of transport and containers.
4. What should importers be aware of after the official release and implementation of the announcement?
(1) Importers shall establish a verification system for overseas exporters and manufacturers, ensuring comprehensive management of the entire supply chain for imported edible vegetable oils.
(2) Importers must oversee international carriers to ensure compliance with CXC36-2024 throughout the entire process from loading to delivery.
(3) Strictly implement the import and sales record system for edible vegetable oils, and supervise carriers in establishing and maintaining detailed records for container usage, cleaning, and maintenance to achieve traceability management.
(Produced by: Bureau of Import and Export Food Safety, Nanjing Customs)
Disclaimer：The above content is translated from Chinese version of GACC. The GACC version shall prevail.
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