The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced the fiscal year 2023 (FY 2023) user fee rates for importers approved to participate in the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP), and accreditation and certification bodies interested in participating in the Accredited Third-Party Certification Program (TPP). The user fee rates are authorized by FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and allow the agency to assess and collect fees to cover FDA’s cost of administering the aforementioned programs.

VQIP is a voluntary, fee-based program for the expedited review and importation of foods from importers who achieve and maintain a high level of control over the safety and security of their supply chains. The FY 2023 VQIP user fee rate will be effective on August 1, 2022, and supports program benefits from October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2023. Currently, the agency is not offering an adjusted fee for small businesses. Approved VQIP applicants must pay the user fee before October 1, 2022, to begin receiving benefits for FY 2023.

TPP is a voluntary program in which FDA recognizes accreditation bodies that may accredit third-party certification bodies. The accredited certification bodies can conduct food safety audits and issue certifications for foreign food facilities.

Questions regarding VQIP can be directed to the VQIP Importers Help Desk at 1-301-796-8745 or FSMAVQIP@fda.hhs.gov. Questions regarding TPP can be sent to FDAthirdpartyprogram@fda.hhs.gov.