Registration and Certification: Health products must be approved by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Companies should first register their products with the TGA and submit detailed information including product ingredients, efficacy descriptions, production processes, quality control, etc. If the product claims to have specific health benefits, sufficient scientific research or clinical trial data must be provided to support it.
Label requirements: The label must include the product name, ingredient list (arranged from high to low content), efficacy description, method of consumption, shelf life, storage conditions, manufacturer and importer information, etc. The label language must be English, and the text must be clear and easy to read. For products containing common allergens (such as nuts, dairy products, etc.), allergen information must be clearly marked.
Import process
Submit an import application: Before the goods arrive in Australia, the importer submits an import application through the “Integrated Cargo Clearance System” (ICS) of the Australian Customs and Border Protection Agency, providing detailed cargo information, transportation information, etc.
Cargo inspection: TGA and the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) may inspect the goods to check whether the products comply with the registration information and relevant Australian standards. Inspection contents include product quality, label compliance, whether it contains prohibited ingredients, etc.
Pay taxes: Pay the corresponding tariffs and consumption taxes according to the value and type of goods. The tariff rate is determined according to the HS code of the product, and consumption taxes apply to some specific products.
Customs clearance: After completing all inspections and paying taxes, the goods can go through customs clearance procedures and be released by customs to enter the Australian market.
Notes
Ingredient compliance: The ingredients of health products must comply with Australian regulations, and it is strictly forbidden to contain prohibited substances such as ephedrine and steroids. When choosing a Chinese supplier, make sure that the ingredients of its products meet the requirements and can provide ingredient test reports.
Avoid false propaganda: The efficacy claims of the product must be scientifically based and cannot be exaggerated or falsely advertised. Importers need to strictly review the product promotional materials to ensure that they comply with the TGA’s promotional regulations.
Cooperate with professional freight forwarders: Since the Australian import process is relatively complicated, it is recommended to cooperate with experienced professional freight forwarding companies to assist in handling customs declaration, customs clearance and other matters to ensure the smooth import of goods.