New report presents FDA's focus on global cooperation for product safety

FDA-regulated products originate from more than 150 countries, 130,000 importers, and 300,000 foreign facilities. Each year from 2005-2011, food imports have grown by an average of 10 percent, while imports of pharmaceutical products have increased at nearly 13 percent and device imports have grown more than 10 percent. Approximately 50 percent of fresh fruits and 20 percent of fresh vegetables, as well as 80 percent of the seafood consumed in America come from abroad. Similarly, more than 80 percent of the active pharmaceutical ingredients used to make medicines are imported. The report outlines a variety of engagement strategies the FDA is using in partnership with other agencies, organizations and coalitions around the world to strengthen global, regulatory capacity-building efforts; develop and harmonize science-based regulatory standards; increase awareness about the importance of regulatory systems; and share information and data globally to facilitate rapid identification of and response to public health emergencies.  

Through its international offices in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East, the FDA is increasing its knowledge base about local regulatory systems and landscapes. The agency is also increasing the understanding of foreign governments and industry of FDA regulations and standards for products destined for U.S. consumers, and collaborating to strengthen regulatory science and evidenced-based approaches to product safety and quality.