Nigeria SONCAP (Standard Organization of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme) certification is a mandatory conformity assessment program for imported products implemented by the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON). This certification aims to ensure that goods imported into Nigeria have met the requirements of Nigeria’s national technical regulations, standards and other approved international standards before shipment, to prevent substandard, unsafe or counterfeit products from entering the Nigerian market, and to protect consumer rights and National Security.
The specific process of SONCAP certification generally includes the following steps:
1. Product Registration: Exporters need to register their products in the Nigerian SONCAP system and submit product information, technical documents and relevant test reports.
2. Product Certification: Depending on the product type and risk level, sample testing and factory inspection may be required. Some low-risk products can complete this stage through self-declaration, while for high-risk products, certification through a third-party certification body is required.
3. SONCAP Certificate: Once the product passes certification, the exporter will obtain a SONCAP certificate, which is a necessary document for the clearance of goods at Nigeria Customs. The validity period of the certificate is related to the product batch, and you may need to reapply before each shipment.
4. Pre-shipment inspection and SCoC certificate (Soncap Certificate of Conformity): Before the goods are shipped, on-site inspection is required, and an SCoC certificate is issued based on the inspection results, indicating that the goods comply with Nigerian standards. This certificate is a document that must be presented when goods are cleared at Nigeria Customs.
It is worth noting that the cost of SONCAP certification will change with time and service content. Exporters also need to pay attention to the latest announcements and requirements of the Nigerian National Bureau of Standards to ensure that the latest certification procedures and standards are followed. In addition, even if you obtain SONCAP certification, you still need to comply with other import procedures stipulated by the Nigerian government.
Nigeria has strict certification rules for imported products to ensure that goods entering the country's market meet its national and international quality and safety standards. The main certifications involved include SONCAP (Standard Organization of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme) and NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) certification.
1.SONCAP is Nigeria's mandatory product conformity assessment program for specific categories of imported products. The process mainly includes the following steps:
• PC (Product Certificate): Exporters need to conduct product testing through a third-party laboratory and submit relevant documents (such as test reports, commercial invoices, packing lists, etc.) to the certification agency to apply for a PC certificate. This certificate is usually valid for one year. , indicating that the product meets Nigeria’s standard requirements.
• SC (Customs Clearance Certificate/SONCAP Certificate): After obtaining the PC certificate, for each goods exported to Nigeria, you need to apply for an SC certificate before shipment for customs clearance. This step may include pre-shipment inspection and review of other compliance documents.
2. NAFDAC certification:
• Mainly targeting food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, medical equipment, packaged water and other health-related products.
• When conducting NAFDAC certification, the importer or manufacturer must first submit samples for testing and provide relevant supporting documents (such as business license, organization code and copy of tax registration certificate, etc.).
• After passing the sample test, you need to make an appointment for inspection and installation supervision services to ensure that the quality and quantity of the products before and after loading into cabinets meet the standards.
• After the cabinet installation is completed, photos, supervision and inspection process record sheets and other materials must be provided as required.
• After the inspection is correct, you will receive an electronic report for confirmation, and finally obtain the original certification document.
Generally speaking, any goods intended for export to Nigeria, especially controlled product categories, need to follow appropriate certification procedures in order to successfully complete customs clearance and sell in the local market. These certifications are designed to protect consumer rights and prevent unsafe or low-quality products from entering the market. As policies may change over time and on a case-by-case basis, it is recommended to consult the latest official information or an authorized certification agency before proceeding.
Post time: Apr-28-2024