Abu Dhabi has launched the ‘Golden List’ initiative, aiming to expedite the import process for food products that consistently meet safety and quality standards. This program, a collaboration between the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) and Abu Dhabi Customs, seeks to enhance trade efficiency while maintaining rigorous food safety protocols.
The Golden List is a curated registry of food products that have demonstrated a strong compliance record. Companies whose products are included on the list are granted priority for pre-clearance, allowing their items to enter the local market directly without the need for physical inspections or sampling. This approach reduces waiting times, customs clearance durations, and operational costs for importers, all while upholding stringent food safety standards.
To qualify for the Golden List, food products must meet several criteria:
-
Compliance Record: Five consecutive shipments must adhere to approved standard specifications and technical regulations.
-
Health Certification: A valid health certificate from the country of origin must be attached.
-
Advance Notification: Import applications must be submitted through the Advanced Trade & Logistics Platform (ATLP) at least 24 hours before the shipment’s arrival.
-
Document Pre-Audit: Only a document pre-audit is required, eliminating the need for visual inspection or sampling.
While the initiative aims to streamline the import process, ADAFSA emphasizes the importance of maintaining high food safety standards. If any product on the Golden List is found to violate specifications or receives food-related alerts, it will be immediately removed from the list and subjected to regular control measures.
The Golden List initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader objectives to enhance economic competitiveness and streamline trade procedures. By fostering a more efficient and secure food import process, the program contributes to the emirate’s position as a leading global logistics hub.
As the program evolves, it is expected to incorporate more products and further refine its processes, ensuring that Abu Dhabi continues to meet the growing demands of its population while upholding the highest standards of food safety.
