If you plan to expand your manufacturing business by exporting to the flourishing Saudi market, familiarising yourself with the country’s product safety program is crucial.
Failure to comply with these regulations could result in your products being rejected at the Saudi border and subsequently returned or destroyed.
This guide aims to provide a concise overview of the SASO Certificate Saudi Arabia Certificate of Conformity (CoC) program, covering the importance of the certification, the list of regulated products, and the application process.
The Product Compliance Program in Saudi Arabia
The Product Compliance Program in Saudi Arabia, also known as the SASO Product Safety Program, is a regulatory framework established by the Saudi Arabian Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO).
The program aims to protect Saudi citizens and the environment by regulating certain imported goods. The program requires that regulated products, categorised as high or medium risk, meet the country’s relevant technical regulations and standards before entering the Saudi market.
Each regulated product consignment must hold a Product Certification of Conformity (PCoC) and a Shipment Certification of Conformity (SCoC). These certifications are exclusively issued after the manufacturer has undergone conformity activities conducted by a SASO-approved conformity assessment body and has demonstrated compliance with the relevant technical regulations and standards for the specific product category.
List of regulated products
There is a range of product categories that Indian manufacturers fall under. Some examples of regulated products in Saudi Arabia include:
· Construction and building materials, such as cement, steel, and pipes
· Electrical and electronic equipment, including household appliances, computers, and telecommunication devices
· Chemicals, such as detergents, cosmetics, and fertilisers
· Mechanical equipment, including vehicles, machinery, and tools
· Food products, including meat, dairy, and processed foods
It’s important to check with the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) for the specific product categories that require SASO certificate in India.Â
How is the application process?
To export a regulated product to Saudi Arabia, it is necessary first to obtain a Product Certification of Conformity (PCoC), followed by a Shipment Certification of Conformity (SCoC). These certifications can only be granted if the manufacturer/supplier undergoes conformity activities by a conformity assessment body approved by SASO and meets the relevant standards and technical regulations for the respective product category.
The procedure to obtain a CoC may differ based on the risk associated with the product. However, the standard application process involves the following:
Conclusion
By understanding and complying with the Certificate of Conformity program, companies can ensure that their regulated products meet the standards and technical regulations required for import into Saudi Arabia. This not only reduces the risk of rejection at the border but also facilitates a smoother customs clearance process.
In case of any uncertainties, consulting SASO or an approved SASO inspection company in India is always advisable to get help.
We hope this article has provided valuable information and insights into the program and wish you the best of luck in your business endeavours.