2026 has ushered in sweeping changes to the standards and compliance rules for exporting to Saudi Arabia. Much of the existing information you may have on SASO 2938 certification is no longer sufficient for full compliance. To enter the Saudi market legally in 2026, you must prioritize the newly effective or upcoming regulatory changes outlined below.
First, a critical clarification: the standard SASO 2938:2019 has a narrow, specific scope—it applies exclusively to broadcast receiving equipment (e.g., in-vehicle radios, DAB+ digital audio receivers). Many online resources incorrectly frame it as a universal energy efficiency standard for all electrical appliances, which is no longer accurate.
For most exporters, the 2026 compliance challenges stem from three key areas:
1. Full Upgrade of Air Conditioning Energy Efficiency Standards (Widest Impact)
If you export air conditioners, this mandatory new threshold applies to you. Saudi Arabia released the updated air conditioning energy efficiency standards SASO 2663:2025 and SASO 2874:2025 in 2025, with a clear transition timeline:
·Early 2026 (Now): Certification applications under the new standards are open.
·August 31, 2026: The final deadline to apply for certificates under the old standards.
·December 1, 2026: Saudi customs and local manufacturers will enforce the new standards fully.
Implications for you: You must complete product upgrades, testing, and obtain energy efficiency certificates and Saber Platform PCoC certificates under the new standards by the end of 2026—old certificates will be invalidated.
2. Saber Platform Rule Updates (Applies to All Products)
The Saber Platform, a mandatory gateway for all products entering Saudi Arabia, implemented critical updates on January 1, 2026:
·Core change: The platform now uses the updated HS Codes synchronized with the Saudi General Authority of Zakat and Tax (ZATCA).
·Potential risk: Using outdated HS Codes for Product Conformity Certificate (PCoC) or Shipment Conformity Certificate (SCoC) applications will result in automatic system rejection and shipping delays.
3. Strengthened Regulations for Specific Products (Industry-Specific Impact)
·Unified Charging Interfaces: Starting April 1, 2026, Saudi Arabia mandates USB Type-C charging ports for laptops and similar devices (the rule for mobile phones and other products took effect in 2025).
·Stringent DAB+ Certification: For in-vehicle infotainment systems and other broadcast receiving equipment, DAB+ certification requirements under SASO 2938:2019 remain rigorous, with a high testing failure rate—all certifications must be processed via the Saber Platform.
2026 Action Roadmap & Compliance Pitfall Guide
A clear strategy is essential to navigate these changes:
Step 1: Reclassify Your Products Precisely
·For air conditioners: Immediately confirm compliance with either SASO 2663:2025 or SASO 2874:2025, and engage a certification body to initiate new testing.
·For broadcast receiving equipment (e.g., in-vehicle head units): SASO 2938:2019 remains the core standard—prioritize DAB+ and other digital broadcast requirements.
·For other electrical and electronic products: Verify any energy efficiency standard updates (similar to air conditioners) and adhere to universal rules like the USB Type-C mandate.
Step 2: Update Your Saber Platform Operations
·Top priority: Before submitting any new PCoC or SCoC applications, verify and adopt the 2026 updated HS Codes (effective January 1) via your certification body or the Saber Platform directly—this is the foundation for smooth processing.
·Process reminder: The core Saber certification logic remains unchanged (two-step: PCoC with a 1-year validity + per-shipment SCoC). Ensure all information aligns with the latest codes and standards.
Step 3: Partner with a Reliable Technical Service Provider
Regulatory complexity makes self-interpretation high-risk. We recommend:
·Collaborating with an internationally recognized certification body or a local compliance service provider with extensive Saudi market experience—they offer first-hand insights into standard interpretation, laboratory selection, and process guidance.
·Clarifying compliance responsibilities with your Saudi importer before signing contracts; ensure they can provide valid Commercial Registration (CR) documents and fully support Saber Platform operations.
Entering the Saudi market in 2026 requires moving beyond the outdated single-label understanding of "SASO 2938" and building a dynamic compliance system based on product category + latest applicable standards + updated Saber Platform rules. We recommend a full review of your export product list and immediate alignment with the above roadmap. If you can share your specific product category (e.g., small home appliances, air conditioners, or in-vehicle electronics), BLUEASIA at +86 13534225140 offers professional certification consulting services.
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