WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced the user fee rates for the fiscal year 2025 for importers participating in the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP) and for accreditation and certification bodies in the Accredited Third-Party Certification Program (TPP). These fees are authorized under the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and are designed to cover the costs of administering these programs.
Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP)
VQIP is a fee-based program aimed at importers who maintain strict control over the safety and security of their supply chains. Participants enjoy expedited review and importation of their food products into the United States.
The user fee for VQIP in fiscal year 2025 covers the period from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Importers approved for VQIP must pay the fee by October 1, 2024, to begin receiving benefits. Currently, there is no reduced fee for small businesses. Details about the fees are available in the Federal Register Notice for FY 2025.
For inquiries, importers can contact the VQIP Importers Help Desk at 1-301-796-8745 or FSMAVQIP@fda.hhs.gov.
Accredited Third-Party Certification Program (TPP)
TPP is a voluntary program where the FDA recognizes “accreditation bodies” that can accredit third-party “certification bodies.” These certification bodies conduct food safety audits and issue certifications for foreign food facilities. The user fee rate for TPP in fiscal year 2025 will be effective from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
These fees allow the FDA to continue ensuring that food imported into the United States meets safety standards, thereby protecting public health.
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