Somaliland has banned the importation of empty packaging materials, including plastic bags, sacks, and jerrycans, as part of a broader effort to curb the illegal repackaging of expired food products.
The directive, issued by the Somaliland Quality Control Commission (SQCC), follows reports of traders using empty containers to repackage expired food with falsified expiration dates. Officials say the measure aims to safeguard public health and prevent consumer deception.
“We have received repeated complaints about the misuse of empty packaging materials, which in some cases has led to expired food being repackaged and resold,” the commission said in a statement. “To prevent this, we have banned the importation of empty sacks, plastic bags, cartons, and jerrycans.”
Under the new regulations, businesses may only import up to 2% spare packaging with their shipments to replace damaged containers. Additionally, companies are prohibited from repackaging any food or other products without prior approval from the commission.
The ban comes amid an ongoing crackdown on food fraud in Somaliland. Authorities have recently seized shipments of expired food, placed them in new bags, and stamped them with altered expiration dates.
“This is a serious public health concern,” said Mukhtar Mohamed Cali, the Somaliland Quality Control Commission chairman. “Repackaging expired food is not only deceptive but also dangerous. No company is allowed to repackage goods without official approval.”
Officials warn that companies found violating the regulations will face legal action under Law No. 68/2014, Article 45. Businesses caught repackaging food without authorization could be fined, have their licenses revoked, or face criminal prosecution.
Somaliland’s food safety concerns have grown as imports play an important role in the country’s supply chain. The government is tightening regulations to prevent substandard goods from reaching consumers.
Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious food products or instances of repackaging. “Consumers have a right to safe, properly labelled food. We encourage them to remain vigilant and report any violations,” the commission’s statement read.
