Brazil, known for its rich cultural diversity and vast consumer market, is an attractive destination for foreign companies looking to expand their businesses. However, it is essential for these companies to understand the specific requirements and regulations established by the country for imports.
The Collegiate Board Resolution (RDC) No. 751/2022 is a crucial document that addresses the procedures for notification and registration of imports in Brazil, ensuring that products meet the quality and safety standards required by Brazilian authorities.
Notification
RDC 751/2022 establishes that foreign companies wishing to import products to Brazil must notify the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) in advance. This notification must be made before the shipment of the goods, allowing ANVISA to analyze the provided information and verify if the product complies with Brazilian regulations.
To do this, the Brazilian importer with ANVISA licenses can carry out the regulatory procedures that regularize these products for commercialization in the country.
Import notification is required for products classified as risk I and II, and it must contain essential details such as product description, country of origin, manufacturer’s name and address, and information about the importing company. Additionally, technical documentation, such as certificates of compliance, clinical trials, stability studies, among others, depending on the type of imported product, needs to be provided.
Registration
Some products may require registration with ANVISA before being marketed in Brazil. Registration is a more comprehensive process that involves an in-depth analysis of the technical documentation and regulatory aspects of the product. This step aims to ensure the safety and efficacy of imported products, protecting Brazilian consumers.
During the registration process, ANVISA evaluates factors such as product quality, efficacy, safety, and labeling. Manufacturing aspects, quality control, and conducted clinical studies are also taken into consideration. Once the registration process is completed, ANVISA issues an authorization for the commercialization of the product in Brazil.
For registration, the products are classified as risk III and IV.
Risk Classification
Risk classification is a system used to categorize products according to the level of risk they pose to human health. This classification is generally applied to healthcare products such as medicines, medical devices, and personal hygiene products.
In the risk I and II category, products are considered low to medium risk. These products have a history of safe use and are considered to have minimal risks associated with their use. Common examples of products in this category include:
- Personal hygiene products: Gauze, bandages, adhesive tapes, adhesive dressings, sanitary napkins, disposable diapers, among others.
- Oral care products: Toothbrushes, dental floss, mouthwashes, toothpaste.
- Some simple medical devices: Thermometers, disposable syringes, sphygmomanometers (blood pressure measurement devices), glucose test strips.
The registration and notification processes for risk I and II products may be less complex and require less stringent requirements due to their history of safe use and minimal associated risks.
In the risk III and IV category, high-risk products are included, which may have a greater potential to cause harm to health or require stricter control. Examples of products in this category include:
- Medicines: Prescription drugs, high-risk medications, medications that require special monitoring, such as chemotherapy drugs and immunosuppressants.
- Implantable medical devices: Prostheses, cardiac pacemakers, orthopedic implants.
- Complex diagnostic equipment: CT scanners, MRI machines, radiation therapy devices.
These high-risk products usually undergo more rigorous registration and notification processes due to the higher potential for health hazards associated with them. Quality control, clinical testing, and specific regulations are more demanding to ensure the safety and efficacy of these products.
Importance of RDC 751/2022
RDC 751/2022 plays a vital role in public health protection and control of imported products. By requiring import notification and registration, Brazil ensures that products meet national standards of quality, efficacy, and safety. This guarantees Brazilian consumers access to reliable and high-quality products while strengthening the competitiveness of the domestic market.
For foreign companies looking to import to Brazil, understanding and complying with the guidelines established by RDC 751/2022 is crucial. It is important to seek the support of consultants specialized in Brazilian regulations to ensure compliance and avoid delays and issues during the importation process.
Are you planning to expand your business to Brazil and import your products to one of the largest consumer markets in the world? Ensure a smooth entry into the Brazilian market with the help of our specialized import consulting services.
