Ensure Your Exports to Nigeria Continue Without Disruption
Exporters shipping regulated products to Nigeria are entering a new phase of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP). Following Bureau Veritas’ announcement regarding the conclusion of its SONCAP services for new certifications, exporters who have historically relied on Bureau Veritas should begin planning for future Product Certificate (PC) and SONCAP Certificate (SC) applications with another authorized Independent Accredited Firm (IAF).
Planning ahead will help avoid unnecessary delays, shipment disruptions, and customs clearance issues.
What Has Changed?
Bureau Veritas has announced that it will no longer process new SONCAP certification requests under the Nigeria SONCAP program. While certain existing Product Certificates and ongoing applications may continue to be supported during the announced transition period, exporters requiring future certifications will need to work with another SON-authorized Independent Accredited Firm (IAF).
If your company currently exports products such as:
- Electrical and electronic products
- Building materials
- Industrial machinery
- Automotive parts
- Steel products
- Gas appliances
- Lighting products
- Consumer goods
it is important to review your certification status before your next shipment.
Who Is Affected?
You may be affected if:
- Your Product Certificate (PC) was issued through Bureau Veritas.
- Your Product Certificate is approaching its expiry date.
- You are planning new shipments to Nigeria.
- You intend to introduce new product models requiring certification.
- You have long-term supply contracts with Nigerian buyers.
Taking action before your next shipment can prevent unexpected delays.
What Should Exporters Do?
- Review Your Existing Product Certificates
Identify:
- Certificate validity period
- Expiry date
- Covered product models
- Applicable standards
Understanding your current certification status is the first step toward planning future compliance.
- Identify Your Next Certification Partner
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) authorizes several Independent Accredited Firms (IAFs) to provide SONCAP services.
When selecting a certification partner, consider:
- Global inspection capabilities
- Local technical support
- Testing coordination
- Experience with your product category
- Turnaround time
- Availability in your export country
- Prepare Technical Documentation
Having your documentation organized can significantly reduce processing time.
Typical documents include:
- Product specifications
- Test reports
- Quality management certificates (if applicable)
- Manufacturing information
- Product photographs
- User manuals
- Bill of Materials (where required)
- Plan Ahead for Renewals
Do not wait until your Product Certificate expires.
Starting the renewal or new certification process well in advance helps prevent delays to production and shipment schedules.
- Coordinate With Your Nigerian Customer
Inform your importer that your future SONCAP certifications will be issued through an authorized IAF.
Maintaining clear communication helps avoid confusion during customs clearance.
How HQTS Can Support Exporters
HQTS is an authorized Independent Accredited Firm (IAF) under the Nigeria SONCAP program and provides end-to-end conformity assessment services for exporters worldwide.
Our services include:
- Product Certificate (PC) issuance
- SONCAP Certificate (SC) issuance
- Factory inspections
- Product testing coordination
- Documentation review
- Technical compliance guidance
- Dedicated account management
- Global inspection network across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa
Whether you export from India, China, the UAE, Vietnam, Turkey, or other manufacturing hubs, our experienced SONCAP specialists can help simplify the certification process.
Why Exporters Choose HQTS
- Over 30 years of quality assurance experience
- Authorized SONCAP certification provider
- Global inspection and testing network
- Fast response and quotation turnaround
- Dedicated support teams in multiple countries
- Technical expertise across a wide range of industries
- Trusted by more than 50,000 clients worldwide
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I continue using my existing Bureau Veritas Product Certificate?
If your Product Certificate is still valid, it may continue to be recognized according to the applicable SONCAP program requirements. However, future certifications, renewals, or new product approvals should be planned with an authorized IAF. Exporters should confirm the applicable requirements before scheduling their next shipment.
Do I need a new Product Certificate immediately?
Not necessarily. This depends on the validity of your current certificate and your future shipment plans. Reviewing your certification status early is recommended.
Can HQTS help review my current certification status?
Yes. Our technical team can review your existing documentation and advise on the most appropriate path for future SONCAP certification.
Prepare Early to Avoid Shipment Delays
Changes in certification programs can create uncertainty for exporters, but early planning ensures business continuity.
If your organization previously relied on Bureau Veritas for SONCAP certification, now is the ideal time to review your compliance strategy and establish a transition plan for future shipments.
The HQTS SONCAP team is ready to assist with documentation reviews, certification planning, inspections, and technical guidance to help keep your exports moving smoothly.
Need assistance with your next SONCAP certification?
Contact HQTS today for a complimentary consultation and learn how we can support your future exports to Nigeria.
