Synlait receives infant formula registration from GACC. Credit: Synlait Ltd.

New Zealand-based milk company Synlait has obtained approval from China for the registration of infant formula processed at its blending and canning facility in Auckland.

The company received infant formula registration from the General Administration of Customs of the Peoples’ Republic of China (GACC).

With the registration in place, the company can progress brand registration processes for China for its blending facility.

In May last year, the Auckland facility obtained a China general dairy registration.

Synlait CEO Leon Clement said: “Our team has a strong track record at providing market access for customers and securing regulatory approvals for Synlait facilities.

“We are navigating complex regulatory environments internationally and it is great to see this work recognised so Synlait can keep supporting its customers to grow.”

The factory registration for infant formula includes a thorough evaluation of Synlait. The company also needs to prove that it has a strict quality management system in place.

The Ministry for Primary Industries also conducted an onsite audit for three days on behalf of GACC, which included a complete traceability exercise from raw materials through to export, as well as an assessment of Synlait’s capability to meet the rigorous regulatory and quality requirements.

Additionally, the company secured a second GACC registration for its advanced dairy liquid processing facility at its Dunsandel site.

Registration will enable the company to export cream-based products to China.

Clement added: “Today’s GACC approvals confirm we have the opportunity to continue the growth with customers looking to keep expanding in the China market.”