The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a new industry notice outlining the final steps required before the Feeds Regulations 2024 becomes fully enforceable next year. Released on December 1, the update confirms which regulatory provisions will take effect on December 17, 2025, and reminds businesses to prepare for new licensing rules, an expanded list of regulated livestock species, updated export documentation processes, and controlled import conditions for non-compliant feed.
The notice also revisits the broader transition timeline, first introduced when the Feeds Regulations 2024 were published on July 3, 2024, and highlights the ongoing obligation for feed businesses to maintain written preventive control plans throughout every phase of implementation.
Licensing Requirements Take Effect in December 2025
A key update in the December 1 notice is the confirmation that livestock feed businesses involved in specific activities will require a licence beginning December 17, 2025. Licensing will apply to companies that conduct a prescribed activity with feed intended for export, import for sale, or interprovincial movement. Imported feed will need to be registered or imported by a licence holder.
Although the Automated Import Reference System is being updated to reflect licensing conditions, no licences will be issued before December 17, 2025. Businesses are encouraged to review the CFIA’s information on preventive control plans and licensing criteria to understand exemptions, obligations, and preparation steps.
Expanded List of Livestock Species Under Regulation
The CFIA notice confirms that the Feeds Regulations 2024 will soon apply to a broader set of livestock species. Newly regulated groups include bison, water buffalo, cervids, llamas, alpacas, finfish, molluscs, and crustaceans intended for human consumption. These additions expand the scope beyond traditional species such as cattle, poultry, swine, goats, and horses.
Feed manufacturers must ensure that labels, compositions, ingredient choices, and preventive control plans reflect the requirements for all regulated species. Only approved single ingredient feeds listed in the Canadian Feed Ingredients Table may be used. When sequencing guidelines are unavailable for certain species or medicating ingredients, a validated system flush will be required.
Authority to Issue New Export Documentation
The CFIA will have authority to issue new forms of export documentation for livestock feed once the regulations move into full effect. While no program changes have been implemented yet, the agency plans to consult with stakeholders because export requirements often depend on negotiations with importing countries.
Feed exporters can prepare by reviewing existing RG 9 guidance that covers documentation to support international market access. Staying familiar with these requirements will help teams adjust once new procedures are introduced.
Controlled Importation of Non-Compliant Feed for Re Export
The December 1 notice confirms that non-compliant feed may be imported into Canada when it is intended exclusively for re-export. This feed cannot be fed domestically and all handling activities must be completed by a licence holder. This measure provides flexibility for companies with global operations while maintaining strict domestic safety protections.
Preventive Control Plans Remain a Standing Obligation
The CFIA reiterates that preventive control plans continue to be a mandatory requirement under the Feeds Regulations 2024. PCPs must be written, up to date, and reflective of all regulated species and applicable standards. Any business that has not yet updated its PCPs should do so well before the final enforcement date.
Key Takeaways
- The CFIA’s December 1 notice outlines the final implementation steps of the Feeds Regulations 2024.
- Licensing requirements will apply to businesses that handle prescribed feed for export, import for sale, or interprovincial movement.
- The list of regulated livestock species has expanded and affects labelling, formulation, and preventive control planning.
- A new authority for export documentation will be introduced after further consultation.
- Non-compliant feed may be imported only for re-export and only under a licence holder’s responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will every livestock feed business need a licence next year?
Not all operations require licences, although many that import, export, or move feed across provincial or territorial boundaries will. Reviewing the CFIA’s licensing guidance helps determine whether specific activities qualify.
Do labels and formulations need to change for newly regulated species?
Yes. Any feed intended for a species added to the expanded list must meet all labelling, compositional, and safety requirements.
Are the export documentation changes active now?
No. The CFIA will implement changes only after further consultation with industry.
Can non-compliant feed be imported for domestic use?
No. Feed that does not meet Canadian requirements may only be imported for re-export and cannot be fed in Canada.
Is a preventive control plan required during the transition phase?
Yes. PCPs remain mandatory throughout the transition period and the regulations become fully enforceable.
Conclusion
CFIA’s update marks a significant milestone as the Feeds Regulations 2024 move toward full implementation. With new licensing rules, expanded species classifications, and updated compliance expectations approaching, businesses should review their procedures well ahead of December 2025.
If your organization needs guidance updating documentation, preparing preventive control plans, or navigating any part of these regulatory changes, you can contact Quality Smart Solutions for support. Our specialists can guide your team through each step and help you prepare with confidence.
