What is SONCAP Certificate?
The SONCAP Certificate (Standards Organization of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Program) is a mandatory certification implemented by the Nigerian government to regulate the import of certain products. This certification ensures that imported goods meet Nigerian quality and safety standards, protecting consumers from substandard and hazardous products. The program applies to a variety of regulated goods, including electronics, machinery, chemicals, and building materials. Before goods are allowed to enter the Nigerian market, they must pass through a conformity assessment process, which guarantees that they adhere to Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS).
The certification process under SONCAP involves a two-step procedure. First, the product must undergo a pre-shipment inspection and testing, resulting in the issuance of a Product Certificate (PC). This certificate confirms that the product complies with the relevant standards. After this, when the product is ready for shipment, the exporter or importer applies for a SONCAP Certificate (SC), which is issued based on the Product Certificate and a review of the shipping documentation. This ensures that only approved and compliant products enter the Nigerian market.
SONCAP plays a crucial role in safeguarding Nigerian consumers from low-quality and unsafe goods, while also promoting fair trade practices. By regulating the import of goods through strict standards and procedures, the program helps maintain the integrity of the Nigerian market. Importers and exporters must comply with SONCAP requirements to avoid delays, penalties, or rejection of goods at Nigerian ports. For businesses looking to trade with Nigeria, understanding and adhering to the SONCAP process is essential for smooth and successful operations.
Benefits of getting SONCAP Certificate for Business?
Getting a SONCAP Certificate offers several benefits for businesses. Here are some potential advantages:
Consumer Protection
The SONCAP Certificate ensures that imported products meet the required safety and quality standards, protecting Nigerian consumers from harmful or substandard goods. By enforcing strict regulations, the government aims to promote public health and safety, ensuring only compliant products enter the market.
Market Access
For businesses looking to export goods to Nigeria, having a SONCAP Certificate is crucial as it is a mandatory requirement for entry into the Nigerian market. Without this certification, products may be barred from entering, leading to financial loss or trade disruptions.
Reduced Importation of Substandard Goods
The SONCAP process helps curb the influx of low-quality, counterfeit, or dangerous products into Nigeria. This fosters a healthier and safer marketplace where consumers can trust the integrity of imported goods, improving overall product standards.
Enhanced Credibility for Importers
Importers who adhere to SONCAP requirements gain credibility with Nigerian regulators and customers. Their products are seen as trustworthy and safe, boosting their reputation and increasing their chances of repeat business in the Nigerian market.
Regulatory Compliance
By obtaining the SONCAP Certificate, importers ensure they are complying with Nigerian trade laws. This compliance helps avoid legal complications, penalties, and delays in shipping or customs clearance.
Efficient Customs Clearance
Products with a valid SONCAP Certificate are processed more quickly by Nigerian customs authorities, leading to smoother and faster clearance at the ports. This reduces the risk of shipping delays, helping businesses avoid costly interruptions in their supply chains.
Who can get SONCAP Certificate?
The SONCAP Certificate (Standards Organization of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Program) is a mandatory certification for regulating the import of specific products into Nigeria. The following entities or businesses may seek approval from SONCAP :
Importers to Nigeria
Exporters to Nigeria
Manufacturers for Nigeria
Agents for importers/exporters
Trading companies
Document required for GSV Program
- System Manual
- System Procedure
- Policy
- Objectives
- Mission & Vision
- Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
- Checklist
- Forms
- Formats
- Records
The extent of Documented Information differs as per:
- Organization’s size
- Activities performed by the organization
- Processes undertaken by the Organization
- Products and services offered by the organization
- The complexity of processes undertaken
- Competence of persons involved
Role of Shamkris and Process of SONCAP Certificate
Shamkris adopts a results-oriented approach to effective system implementation in the organization. A simple and practical method of system implementation helps organizations increase business efficiency and sustainability. Shamkris supports 100% documentation to obtain buyer approval in addition to enhanced performance.
The implementation process is described below:
Step 1
GAP Assessment
GAP Assessment report as per SONCAP Certificate checklist
Step 3
Training
• Training to Top Management.
• Training to Employee's
Step 4
Implementation
• Verification of Documentation as per Checklist
• Internal Audit, Management Review Meeting & N-Closer for Internal Audit
Step 5
Audit Public Verification
•Verification by third party approval by SONCAP Certificate
• Closer of Non-Conformetives
Year on Year
Yearly Compliance
• Support of Yearly documentation for audit
FAQ
The SONCAP Certificate is a mandatory certification for regulated goods imported into Nigeria, ensuring they meet Nigerian safety and quality standards.
Importers, exporters, manufacturers, and agents involved in shipping regulated goods to Nigeria must obtain a SONCAP Certificate.
SONCAP covers a range of regulated products such as electronics, machinery, chemicals, and building materials. A full list is available from the Standards Organization of Nigeria.
You need to have your products tested and inspected by an approved inspection agency, after which you can apply for a Product Certificate and then a SONCAP Certificate.
No, only certain regulated products require a SONCAP Certificate. Other goods may not be subject to this certification.
The time varies depending on the inspection and testing process, but it typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks.
No, without a SONCAP Certificate, regulated goods may be denied entry, leading to delays or penalties at Nigerian ports.
Non-compliance can result in fines, rejection of goods, or delays at customs, preventing your products from entering the Nigerian market.
Yes, you need to renew the certificate as required, particularly if you plan to ship multiple consignments of the same products to Nigeria.
The costs include inspection, testing, and certification fees, which vary depending on the product and certification agency.