Why Your Local CHA or Agent Can’t Handle USFDA Compliance Alone

• When Indian exporters plan to enter the U.S. food market, one common assumption is: “Our CHA (Customs House Agent) or freight forwarder will take care of the USFDA compliance.”
• This assumption is costly and often leads to shipment delays, rejections, or even permanent bans.
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• Here’s why relying solely on your local CHA or agent is not enough.
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• CHAs are experts in customs clearance, documentation, and shipping formalities.
• But USFDA compliance is about food safety regulations, product approvals, labeling laws, and facility registrations.
• It requires technical knowledge of FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), not just paperwork.
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  • Example: A CHA can file a Bill of Entry, but they cannot determine if your label violates 21 CFR 101 nutrition labeling requirements
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Mandatory US-Side Requirements Can’t Be Managed Locally

To sell in the U.S., exporters must comply with requirements that local CHAs cannot handle, such as:

• US FDA Food Facility Registration (with a U.S.-based agent)
• Prior Notice Submissions before shipment departure
• FSVP (Foreign Supplier Verification Program) handled by your U.S. importer
• PCQI (Preventive Controls Qualified Individual) oversight of food safety plans
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👉 None of these are within a CHA’s standard service scope.

If shipments fail USFDA checks, goods may be:

• Detained Without Physical Examination (DWPE)
• Refused Entry & Destroyed
• Placed on Import Alert (blacklisting the exporter)
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This goes beyond customs clearance — it’s a regulatory compliance failure.

CHAs Work at Origin, FDA Works at Destination

• CHAs deal with export customs & logistics in India.
• USFDA deals with import compliance & safety at the U.S. border.
• A gap in compliance cannot be “fixed” by your CHA once the goods reach the U.S.

To succeed in the U.S. market, exporters must have:

• USFDA Compliance Consultant – to prepare facility registration, labeling review, product classification, and documentation.
• Qualified U.S. Agent – required for all foreign facility registrations.
• FSVP-Compliant Importer – who verifies your food safety standards.

 The Smart Way Forward

Exporting to the U.S. is one of the most lucrative opportunities for Indian food manufacturers, but it is also one of the most regulated markets in the world.

Your CHA or local agent plays a critical role in shipping & clearance, but USFDA compliance requires specialized support.

That’s where Exim Shiksha bridges the gap:

• FDA Registration & Renewal
• Labeling & Nutrition Facts Compliance
• FSVP Importer Support
• PCQI-Compliant Food Safety Plans

CHAs move your goods. Compliance experts move your business forward.

Don’t risk your U.S. market entry by leaving USFDA compliance in the wrong hands.