Learn about the features and uses of the Product Certificate, and how better to organize your importing process when importing your goods to Nigeria.
Importing goods to Nigeria involves spotting various regulations and quality standards. One crucial document that facilitates international trade is the Product Certificate.
Cotecna is your trusted partner for seamless certification procedures in Nigeria. Here we aim to shed light on what Product Certificates are, their types, the required documents for certification, key features, and their multiple uses in the importing process.
What is a Product Certificate?
A Product Certificate holds immense significance in International Trade, specifically when importing to Nigeria. It serves as evidence that the items being imported are regulated by the relevant standard organization and have successfully passed quality assurance tests conducted by certified laboratories. It's important to note that the certification process takes place in the exporter's country, resulting in the issuance of the Product Certificate in the exporter's name.
Types of Product Certificates:
- Product Certificate Unregistered (PCU):
Designed for single shipments of high-risk items, the PCU is valid for six months, ensuring compliance with quality standards. - Product Certificate Registered (PCR):
Intended for multiple shipments of low-risk items, the PCR has a validity of one year. It provides consistent proof of compliance with quality regulations. - Product Certificate Licensed (PCL):
Reserved for brand owners and manufacturers, the PCL covers both low and high-risk items for multiple shipments throughout a year. This type of certificate emphasizes the commitment to quality control from the manufacturers.
Documents Required for Product Certification:
To obtain a Product Certificate, several documents must be submitted, including:
- Product Test Report.
- ISO Certificate: ISO 9001, 17025, 2008, or any other relevant ISO certificate issued to the manufacturer.
- Product Picture.
- Manufacturer's Quality Declaration.
- Additional Quality Documents.
- Factory Inspection/Audit.
- Proforma Invoice.
Features of a Product Certificate:
A Product Certificate encompasses the following features:
- Beneficiary Details:
Exporter's contact information, including name, phone number, email address, and fax number. - HS Code:
The item description includes a Harmonized System (HS) code, indicating that the item is regulated by relevant authorities. However, the Product Certificate Unregistered may not mention the HS code as it is intended for single-use. - Item Description:
A specific and detailed description of the item being imported, including brand and model information. - Country of Origin:
The country from which the goods are shipped to Zimbabwe. - Product Certificate Number:
A unique number assigned to each Product Certificate, specific to the beneficiary's details. This number is crucial for processing Form M and is activated and transmitted through the relevant customs portal. - Issuance Date:
The date on which Cotecna issues the Product Certificate. - Expiry Date:
The date on which the Product Certificate will expire, denoting its validity period. - Standard Reference:
An international standard adopted for testing the items at the laboratory, ensuring compliance with quality regulations.
Product Certificate Fees:
Some fees are fixed, as the table below. However, the full costs depend on the product type and can be determined when the exporter contacts a Cotecna office. Based upon the relevant documentation and the relevant information, a price/quotation can be issued.
| Process | Type of Product / Certificate | Fees in USD per Certificate | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration and Licensing | PC (U) - Product Certificate Unregistered | 500 | 6 months |
| PC (R) - Product Certificate Registered | 1,000 | 1 year | |
| PC (L) - Product Certificate Licensing | 2,000 | 1 year | |
| Shipment Certification | SC - SONCAP Certificate | 350 | per shipment |
| Other | New product on PCU, PCR, PCL | 350 | per product |
| Additional model | 10/120 | per month/year | |
| Amendment of Certificate | 100 | / | |
| Non-Conformity Report | 350 | / |
Uses of Product Certificates:
- To obtain Form M with Authorized Dealer bank as part of import documents
- Used as supporting documents at the bank for a letter of credit and for forex
- Used as part of supporting documents in the clearing process at the port
For your Product certificate and SONCAP Certificate which are necessary documents in importation; don’t hesitate to contact us for seamless certification process.