Business Centre Corporation (BCC) has abolished its regulation, which mandates the registration of home-based food producers. The regulation was initially publicised in February.
Providing insight on the abolishment of the regulation, BCC stated that the decision was taken as the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) formulated the “Standard of Practice in the Production and Sale of Food for Personal Consumption” and the “Regulations for Registration of Food Processors for Personal Consumption.” The new regulations were introduced following concerns over deteriorating hygiene standards in home-based food production. Recent actions, including those by Maldives Immigration to crack down on illegal businesses run by foreigners, have revealed that some food is being prepared and sold in unhygienic conditions. Therefore, MFDA is exerting efforts to ensure the production of food, such that it does not pose any health risks.
Under the new regulations, home-based food manufacturers must meet specific standards to obtain a production permit. Manufacturers must submit details about their facilities and products through the online portal using eFaas login credentials to register. The regulations also allow for inspections to ensure compliance, and manufacturers are required to submit annual checklists and declarations to the authority.