Since 1 July 2011, a new Commission Regulation (EU) No 284/2011 has laid down specific conditions and detailed procedures for the import of polyamide and of melamine plastic kitchenware originating in or consigned from the People's Republic of China (China) and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China (Hong Kong).
These specific conditions include that plastic kitchenware originating in or consigned from China and Hong Kong shall be imported into the Member States only if the importer submits to the competent authority for each consignment a declaration and a laboratory report confirming that it meets the requirements concerning the release of primary aromatic amines and formaldehyde.
Importers/food businesses must pre-notify Food Standards Scotland or the relevant competent authority at the first point of introduction at least two working days in advance of the estimated date and time of physical arrival of consignments. The UK has designated specific First Points of Introduction (FPIs) for these consignments originating in, or consigned from, China and Hong Kong.
A documentary check and an identity and physical check, including sampling for laboratory analysis of 10% of such consignments, will take place at the FPI. Fees will be payable to the relevant authority where these controls apply and will not be higher than the costs incurred by the authorities.
Article 5 of Regulation (EU) No 284/2011 requires Members States to maintain and make publically available an up-to-date list of the designated FPIs.