If you want to sell low voltage products like toys or electronics in countries that are within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), you need to ensure they have the G-Mark. G-Mark certification is mandatory for these products, and achieving it can seem daunting and difficult; but we’re here to help.
This guide has everything your company needs to know about the G-Mark, and will introduce you to key concepts and rules surrounding it, including what the mark is, what it looks like on a product, and how to properly earn it.
What is Gulf Mark (G-Mark) Certification?
The G-Mark is a mandatory product conformity which signifies that a product complies with the Gulf Technical Regulation (GTR) requirements. These requirements are related to health, safety, and environmental protection.
G-Mark Certification Product List
The G-Mark certification is mandatory for a specific selection of products that are outlined in a list of low-voltage electricals.
The list includes refrigerators, washing machines, microwaves, air conditioners, heaters, electric fans, irons, hairdressing appliances, and components like plugs and sockets. In addition, all children’s toys require G-Mark certification, and the program has also expanded to include water-consumption conservation products (which also must carry a Water Conservation Consumption Efficiency label) including taps, urinals, flow regulators, and flushing tanks.
Where is the G-Mark Certificate Mandatory?
The G-Mark certificate is mandatory for products intended for sale in the GCC member states. These countries are the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Yemen.
The G-Mark Label
The G-Mark label is part of a larger system known as the GSO Conformity Tracking Symbol (GCTS). This symbol is composed of two key parts: the G-Mark logo itself and a QR code.
The G-Mark must be permanently affixed to products through unerasable labeling or printing during the final stage of quality control. The mark should not be duplicated or imitated for fraudulent purposes, and while other national or international standard marks can also be included on the product, they must not cause confusion with the G-Mark. The identification number of the notified body must also be included on the label.
The QR code is a unique identifier used to track the certificate and verify a product’s conformity. All products that are subject to a Gulf Technical Regulation must display this GSO Conformity Tracking Symbol to be legally sold in the GCC markets.
How to Obtain the G-Mark Certificate
To obtain a G-Mark certificate, manufacturers must follow a process divided into two steps.
Step One – Testing
First, the product must undergo thorough testing by a GCC-notified body to ensure it meets the required safety, quality, and performance standards. Once the testing is complete, the manufacturer submits the results to the notified body for review.
Step Two – Certification
If the test reports are accurate and the product meets all the necessary standards, the certification body will issue the G-Mark certificate.
This certificate is valid for three years, after which a recertification process is required to maintain compliance. It is important to note that specific regulations may vary slightly between individual GCC countries.
Key Documentation Required
To begin the certification process, a manufacturer must compile a comprehensive technical file, which includes several key documents. These include a Technical File detailing the product’s specifications and compliance documents, a Risk Assessment Report to identify and mitigate potential hazards, and Test Reports that confirm the product’s compliance with safety, performance, and energy efficiency standards. Finally, a Product Label Design must be submitted to ensure the G-Mark will be accurately displayed on the product’s packaging.
Partner with HQTS for G-Mark Certification
Navigating the complexities of G-Mark certification can be challenging, but HQTS are here to help. When you partner with us, you get access to our GCC-accredited testing laboratory, meaning achieving G-Mark certification has never been easier. You can read more about our G-Mark certification services here.
At HQTS, our expertise regarding product testing, inspection, and certification will make it so simple for your company to achieve G-Mark compliance quickly and confidently. Get in touch and let us help you enter the lucrative Gulf markets.
