The aim of the Trade Assurance Schemes (UFAS, TASCC, FEMAS and FIAS) is to provide Participant companies with a level of assurance that meets product safety requirements. This is achieved by the following objectives:

Management by AIC internal Committees
AIC manage a number of Committee whose specific remit is to cover the technical input of the Trade Assurance Schemes. Sector Structure, Committees and Minutes.

Communication with Scheme Participants
Information is delivered in a number of ways to AIC Scheme Participants. One of the main sources of technical information is the Scheme Codes of Practice. These are available from the AIC website or paper/ CD copies are sent out from AIC.

The AIC website is a vital source of information for all aspects of the Trade Assurance Schemes. Information regarding the Codes of Practice, Guidelines and Scheme Registers can be found.

Trade Assurance Participants also receive a news letter twice a year which keeps Scheme Participants up to date with all Scheme developments. This newsletter will also include any relevant AIC technical briefing.

The AIC Journal is also published every three months which covers the areas of Trade Assurance as well as other agrisupply industry issues.

Committee Minutes are published on the AIC website and TASCC Forums are held in response to Scheme and Participant requirements.

Management of certification and audit bodies
AIC contract independent certification bodies to assess participants for compliance with the Schemes.

TASCC, FEMAS, FIAS - PAI  

UFAS - EFSIS  

Various inspection bodies have trained auditors able to carry out the on site inspections. For further details contact the Scheme certification bodies.

Dialogue with appropriate Government and Stakeholders
AIC have dialogue with a range of Government departments including defra and the FSA. AIC's stakeholder list covers a wide range of associated bodies including NABIM, MAGB, AFS, COCERAL, FDF, HGCA etc.

The aims of the Trade Assurance Schemes are always followed in these meetings to ensure Trade Assurance Participants are meeting legal, customers and industry requirements.