Saudi SABER Certification: PCoC and SCoC Mandatory for Exports from 2025

According to the latest notification from the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO), effective January 1, 2025, all goods exported to Saudi Arabia must be applied for and approved under the SABER system with both a Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC). Commitment Letters previously used in the customs clearance process will no longer be valid, and SC certificates applied for after arrival at ports will not be accepted, leading to potential customs clearance issues. Any resulting penalties, detention fees, or demurrage fees may entirely fall on importers.

Detailed Overview:

1. SABER Certification Overview

SABER certification is a mandatory product conformity assessment system in Saudi Arabia to ensure that imported products meet the country’s quality, safety, and environmental standards. All products sold in Saudi Arabia, including machinery and equipment, must undergo SABER certification.

2. Types of Certificates under SABER Certification

PC Certificate (Product Certificate of Conformity):
This certificate demonstrates that the product complies with Saudi technical regulations and standards, serving as a product registration certificate.

• Valid for 1 year, after which reapplication is required. During its validity, the PC certificate does not need to be reapplied for multiple shipments of the same product.
• The application process involves submitting product manuals, technical specifications, test reports, and manufacturer qualifications, followed by review by a certification body.
• The PC certificate is essential for product market entry and sales in Saudi Arabia.

SC Certificate (Shipment Certificate of Conformity):
This certificate confirms that the specific shipment of imported goods matches the PC certificate description and meets Saudi requirements.

• Valid only for the specific shipment. Each shipment requires a new SC certificate.
• Application involves submitting product photos, trademarks, HS codes, and confirming PC certificate validity.
• The SC certificate is critical for customs clearance and smooth entry into the Saudi market.

3. Process for Applying for SABER-SC Certificates

The application process for the SABER-SC certificate typically includes the following steps:

• Importers submit the SC certificate application via the SABER system before the goods are shipped.
• The SABER system verifies the validity of the associated PC certificate, ensuring that the product has obtained PC certification.
• Importers pay the SC certification fees.
• After approval by the certification body, the SC certificate is issued online via the SABER system.

4. New SABER-SC Certificate Regulations

As per SASO’s latest notification, the following new rules apply from January 1, 2025:

• All products exported to Saudi Arabia must have an SC certificate applied for through the SABER system before arrival at the port. SC certificates applied for after arrival will be deemed invalid, resulting in customs clearance issues.
• Subsequent SC applications must include shipping documents like the bill of lading to confirm the goods’ transit status, ensuring alignment between SC applications and the actual shipping circumstances.

Recommendations: Trade stakeholders should apply for required certificates well in advance of shipment and fully understand Saudi Arabia’s certification requirements and procedures to ensure smooth customs clearance.