- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) launched a new online system to allow the electronic application, tracking, and receipt of export certificates involving animal food, drugs, and devices. The CVM Export Certification Application and Tracking System (CVM eCATS) will assist those seeking to export CVM-regulated animal products to satisfy importing country requirements for certification, as well as help governments verify the authenticity of FDA export certificates (which provide FDA’s official attestation regarding a product’s regulatory or marketing status based on available information).
- Manufacturers of CVM-regulated products were previously required to submit paper applications, and CVM would issue export certificates, via mail. The new system is expected to reduce the time needed to complete the application process, simplify the process for applying for multiple certificates, allow governments to verify the authenticity of export certificates online, and allow FDA to more efficiently review and track applications and issued export certificates.
- Although hard copy applications will continue to be accepted, FDA strongly encourages applicants to use the new portal and system. Step-by-step instructions for applicants are available at FDA’s website, here, and further information is available here and here.