On June 6, the FSIS Export Library was updated to include new requirements for U.S. pork and pork products destined for China. All products* presented for export on or after July 1, 2014, must be produced under one of two programs listed in the Export Library and must comply with all new requirements. While China’s ractopamine-free requirements for pork are not new, this marks the first time U.S. exporters have been required to show that products being presented for export are ractopamine-free in order to obtain an export certificate.

One option for exporters serving China is to ship pork produced under the USDA-AMS Never Fed Beta Agonists Quality Systems Verification Program that was unveiled in November of last year. The second option is a new ractopamine residue screening program. Testing requirements for this program, which are outlined in more detail in the Export Library, must be conducted using an AMS-approved screening method.

FSIS also posted China’s maximum residue levels (MRLs) for tetracycline hydrochloride and oxytetracycline in the Export Library, and reminded exporters that China does not allow the use of sulfathiazole in pork production. It is important to note, however, that no new USDA testing requirements have been created for these products and no export requirements have changed with regard to these products.

Exporters with questions regarding any of this information may email Travis Arp, Paul Clayton or Thad Lively or call 303-623-6328.

*Pork casings intended for processing in China and subsequent re-export are exempt.