SASO： SASO

The Saudi government also stipulates that many imported products must obtain certification from the Saudi Standardization Organization (SASO). It should be noted that SASO certification should basically be applied for by Saudi importers, and export companies should not bear this cost. Corruption is widespread in Saudi Arabia, a highly centralized country. Many certifications for imported goods are purchased with money, and spending money here can accomplish many things. Of course, it is also best for export companies to understand some SASO related terms to avoid unnecessary trouble in the future.
The International Conformity Certification Program (ICCP) is a comprehensive program implemented by the Saudi Arabian Standards Organization (SASO) since 1995, which includes conformity assessment, pre shipment inspection, and certification of specified products to ensure that imported goods fully comply with Saudi product standards before shipment. Since March 17, 2003, Kuwait's Industrial Authority (PAI) has implemented the ICCP program, which covers most household appliances, audio products, and lighting products. In addition, the United Arab Emirates also began implementing the ICCP program on May 31, 2003.

Issuance method

The ICCP program provides three ways for exporters or manufacturers to obtain CoC certificates, and customers can choose the most suitable method based on the nature of their products, the degree of compliance with standards, and the frequency of shipments. The CoC certificate is issued by SASO Country Office (SCO) authorized by SASO or PAI Country Office (PCO) authorized by PAI.
Approach 1: Pre shipment compliance verification
This method is most suitable for exporters or manufacturers with very few shipments. Before each shipment, it is necessary to apply for pre shipment inspection (PSI) and pre shipment testing (PST). If both are qualified, one can obtain the CoC certificate.
Approach 2: Registration and Pre shipment Inspection
This method is suitable for the vast majority of customers, and its advantage is that although each shipment inspection (PSI) is necessary, each batch of goods does not need to undergo pre shipment testing (PST). Customers can obtain the Statement for Registration (SfR) by submitting a declaration of compliance and providing test reports that comply with the import country and relevant international or domestic standards, and declaring that the product meets the basic requirements and national differences of the importing country.
Approach 3: Formal Recognition Certificate
This method can not only save inspection or testing fees before each shipment, simplify repetitive application procedures, but also ensure delivery time. Therefore, it is favored by some large companies that ship frequently or on a large scale, and focus on quality and reputation. Exporters or manufacturers' products can only obtain a Statement for License (SfL) certificate if they fully comply with the mandatory standards of the importing and exporting country. The certificate is valid for one year, and an updated factory inspection report and annual fee must be submitted and reviewed by RLC before renewal. Products that have obtained SfL certificates no longer need to undergo pre shipment inspections for each batch, but are reduced to a few rare spot checks per year.