SONCAP. What is it and how to get a SONCAP certificate
Nigeria is the fourth-largest economy in Africa and has the largest population on the continent. Because of its growing economy and population, it has become an attractive destination for foreign businesses and investors. To export products to Nigeria, a SONCAP certificate is required. In this article, we will explain what a SONCAP certificate is and how you can obtain one.
What is SONCAP?
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Program (SONCAP) is a product certification program designed to verify that goods meet Nigerian standards or approved international standards. Implemented by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the program targets imported goods, ensuring they comply with health, safety, and environmental standards before entering the Nigerian market. The aim of the SONCAP program is to protect the health and safety of Nigerian consumers.
SONCAP is applicable to a wide array of products, excluding a few exempt items such as raw food products, drugs, medical supplies, and military equipment. Regulated goods include electronics, machinery, building materials, chemicals, and more. Importers and exporters of these goods must undergo the SONCAP certification process to confirm that their products meet the minimum standards established by SON.
How to get a SONCAP Certificate in Nigeria?
Obtaining a SONCAP certificate involves several steps.
1. Product testing
Before applying for a SONCAP Certificate, exporters need to have their products tested by a SON-accredited laboratory. This testing phase verifies that the products meet the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) or other relevant international standards. The exporter must submit samples for testing, which are analyzed to ensure compliance with safety, quality, and performance standards.
2. Issuance of product certificate (PC)
After successful testing, the next step is obtaining a Product Certificate. There are 3 types of Product Certificates: Product Certificate 1 unregistered status, Product Certificate 2 registered status and Product Certificate 3 licensed status. PC 1 is valid for one shipment, while PC 2 and PC 3, for frequent exporters, are valid for one year. To apply for a PC, exporters must provide test reports, product specifications, and any other relevant documentation to demonstrate conformity with the standards.
The PC is used by the importer in Nigeria to open the Form M in Nigeria. Form M is a mandatory statutory document to be completed by all importers for importation of goods into Nigeria.
3. Application for SONCAP Certificate
With the Product Certificate in hand, exporters can proceed to apply for the SONCAP Certificate. This application is typically done through SON’s electronic platform, where the exporter or importer submits the necessary documentation, including the PC, commercial invoice, form M, and packing list.
4. Verification and inspection
Once the application is submitted, SON or an accredited inspection body may conduct a verification and inspection of the products. This step ensures that the shipment matches the product specifications and quantity listed in the application. This inspection can be done at the country of origin before shipping.
5. Issuance of the SONCAP certificate
After the verification and inspection process, SON issues the SONCAP certificate for the shipment. This certificate is specific to a particular consignment and is valid only for the listed products in that shipment. The SONCAP certificate is mandatory for clearing goods at Nigerian ports, as the Nigeria Customs Service will require it as part of the import documentation.
After the Product Certificate and SONCAP Certificate are issued, the importer has to activate the certificates on the web portal of the Federal Government of Nigeria Single Window for Trade.
Do you want to apply for a SONCAP Certificate? On the website of the Nigerian government you can find accredited firms that can assist you with the certification process.
About Hoefon Security Seals
Hoefon Security Seals is a global supplier of security seals, cargo locks, and transport monitoring equipment. We are SONCAP certified to export our products to Nigeria. Are you interested in our solutions? Please feel free to request a free quote or to contact us.
Niels Pas
CEO Hoefon Security Seals
Niels Pas has been Hoefon Security Seals’ CEO since 2017. He has extensive international experience and speaks 4 languages professionally.
