A voluntary enrolment scheme for poultry-egg importers has been launched as the first step to forming a statutory regulatory framework on egg imports, Centre for Food Safety Controller Dr Mak Sin-ping says. Importers joining the scheme must outline the source and types of eggs imported, their quantity and distribution channels.

Dr Mak said today the information will be useful in helping the Government establish a formal regulatory framework in future. It needs more information before it can determine details of the plan, and importers' participation will enhance food safety in Hong Kong.

Application forms are available here. The centre will send letters to the importers and arrange a meeting to explain the scheme's details.

Following the scheme's launch, the Government will in one to two months submit a proposal to the Legislative Council to regulate egg imports.

In future, all importers may be required to register with the Centre for Food Safety and apply for a licence before being allowed to import eggs, and all imported eggs may require a health certificate.