SONCAP Certification Details: How to obtain and effectively use this market access certificate

SONCAP certification, or the Standard Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Program, is a certification system established by the Nigerian government to protect consumer rights and ensure that imported products meet domestic quality and safety standards. For products wishing to enter the Nigerian market, SONCAP certification is not only a necessary condition for market access, but also an important way to enhance product credibility and competitiveness. The following section details how to obtain SONCAP certification and explores how to effectively use this market access certificate.

Obtaining SONCAP certification

1. Confirm product categories and standards

First, exporters need to determine whether the product falls within the scope of mandatory SONCAP certification. SONCAP applies to most imported goods, but certain specific products such as food and drugs (which must be certified by NAFDAC) are not within its scope. At the same time, exporters must also find specific standards applicable to the product, which may cover safety, performance, environmental protection and other aspects.

2. Applying for a Product Certificate (PC)

The first step in applying for SONCAP certification is to obtain a Product Certificate. Exporters must select a SON-authorised certification body (such as SGS, Intertek, Bureau Veritas, etc.) and submit technical documentation including product manuals, design drawings, test reports, etc. The certification body will test and evaluate the product to ensure that it meets the technical standards of the Nigerian market. Testing can be carried out at the manufacturer’s premises, but the test report must be issued by an accredited laboratory.

The validity period of the product certificate varies depending on the product type and certification route, and may include single import (PC1), one year (PC2) or three years (PC3).Exporters should choose the appropriate certificate type according to their needs.

3. Applying for a SONCAP Certificate (SC)

After obtaining the Product Certificate, the exporter must also apply for a SONCAP Certificate. When the goods are ready to be exported to Nigeria, the importer or exporter must submit relevant documents such as the product certificate, packing list, commercial invoice, etc. to the certification body and apply for a SONCAP certificate. The certification body may conduct a pre-shipment inspection (PSI) of the goods to verify that the goods are as described in the product certificate. If the goods pass the inspection, the certification body will issue a SONCAP certificate, which is a necessary document for the product to clear customs in Nigeria.

Effective use of SONCAP certification

1. Enhance product reputation and competitiveness

SONCAP certification is an important credential for entering the Nigerian market. Obtaining this certification can significantly improve the reputation and competitiveness of products. Consumers are more likely to buy certified products because it means they have passed rigorous quality and safety assessments.

2. Simplify customs procedures

Imported goods with SONCAP certificates will be more convenient to clear through the Nigerian customs. The absence of a SONCAP certificate can result in delays in the customs clearance of products or their denial to enter the Nigerian market. Therefore, effective use of SONCAP certification can shorten the product introduction cycle and increase the speed of market response.

3. Compliance with Nigerian regulations

SONCAP certification is a regulatory requirement implemented by the Nigerian government to ensure the quality of imported products. Achieving SONCAP certification means that the product complies with relevant Nigerian laws and standards, thereby avoiding legal risks and penalties for non-compliance.

4. Strengthening market monitoring and feedback

SONCAP certification is not only about testing and evaluating products, but also about market surveillance and feedback. The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) will conduct spot checks on products that have entered the market to ensure that they meet relevant quality and safety standards. This will help exporters keep abreast of the performance of their products in the market and make improvements and optimisations based on feedback.

Note

When applying for SONCAP certification, exporters should ensure that the information provided is true, accurate and complete.

Exporters should understand and comply with relevant laws and regulations in Nigeria to ensure that their products meet local requirements.

During the application process, exporters may wish to maintain close contact with the Nigerian Bureau of Standards or recognised certification bodies to obtain the latest certification information and guidance.

In summary, SONCAP certification is one of the necessary requirements to enter the Nigerian market. It is essential for exporters to understand and comply with the requirements of the SONCAP certification scheme. By obtaining SONCAP certification and effectively using this market access certificate, exporters can significantly enhance the credibility and competitiveness of their products, shorten the product launch cycle, increase market response speed and comply with relevant laws and regulations in Nigeria. Standards.