Based on the latest information, the "Product Registration Certificate" within the Nigerian SONCAP framework commonly refers to the Product Certificate (PC), which is the essential first step for market entry and the foundation for the mandatory SONCAP Certificate (SC) for clearance.
| Item | Description |
| Official Name | Product Certificate (PC) |
| Core Purpose | Proof of product compliance with Nigerian standards; prerequisite for applying for the SC and for the importer to obtain the Form M. |
| Certificate Validity | Typically 1 year. |
| Main Application Routes | Primarily three routes: PC1, PC2, PC3, based on export frequency and product risk. |
Understanding the Three Main PC Certification Routes:
SON offers different PC routes tailored to exporter profiles:
1.PC1 (Unregistered Status): For occasional exports with many models and ≤1 shipment per year.
Characteristics: Shorter validity (e.g., 6 months), typically single use, requires inspection.
Core Docs: Application form and test report from a CNAS-accredited lab.
2.PC2 (Registered Status): This is the most common route, suitable for most non-high-risk products.
Characteristics: 1-year validity, can be used unlimited times for subsequent SC applications during validity.
Core Docs: Application form, CNAS lab test report, and the manufacturer's ISO 9001 Quality Management System Certificate.
3.PC3 (Licensed Status): For high-risk regulated products with frequent annual shipments.
Characteristics: 1-year validity, unlimited uses, but stricter requirements, necessitating a factory audit.
Core Docs: Application form, CNAS lab test report, ISO 9001 certificate, and factory audit report.
PC Certification Process & Important Notes:
A typical PC application involves these key stages:
1.Preparation & Testing: Send the product to a lab with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for testing against Nigerian or relevant international standards.
2.Application Submission: Submit the application form, test report, and other required documents to SON or its authorized third-party agency.
3.Document Review: SON or its agent reviews the files and, if approved, issues the PC certificate (or a Registration Identification Number - RIN - for some routes initially).
4.Pre-shipment Inspection: For routes like PC1, after production but before shipment, an inspection and potential sampling by a SON-authorized agency are required to ensure goods match the application. The PC certificate for that shipment (or SC application) proceeds after passing inspection.
Important Note:
Product-Specific Requirements: Different categories have extra needs. For example, electronics must consider voltage compatibility (Nigeria uses 230V/50Hz) and plug standards (must use UK plug BS 1363, etc.). Products with lithium batteries need additional documents like UN38.3 test reports.
For help planning your SONCAP Product Registration, contact BLUEASIA at 13534225140.
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