Argentina's IRAM certification is a mandatory product certification system established under Resolution 92/98, regulated by the Argentine Institute for Standardization and Certification (IRAM). It applies to most electrical and electronic products operating within the voltage range of 50-1000 volts AC or 50-1500 volts DC. With the implementation of new regulations in 2025, certification requirements and cost structures have undergone significant changes.
For companies planning to enter the Argentine market, understanding the composition of certification costs in advance allows for better budget planning and avoids unnecessary cost overruns.
The Argentine IRAM certification system underwent a series of important updates in 2025. These changes directly impact the certification cost structure and budget planning.
·Core Regulatory Changes in 2025: Focus on Resolutions No. 16/2025, 17/2025, and 26/2025, which replace previous resolutions like 169/2018. Under the new framework, manufacturers and importers must submit a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) in Spanish, and all technical documents, labels, and manuals must be provided in Spanish.
·Changes in Marking Requirements: One of the most notable changes in 2025. Starting October 1, 2025, a new version of the conformity mark with a QR code must be affixed to the product or its primary packaging. Scanning this QR code should link to the Spanish Declaration of Conformity document.
·Certificate Transition Period Arrangement: Particularly important for corporate budget planning. Certificates issued under the old regulations (Resolution No. 169/2018) will remain valid until February 26, 2026. Companies are advised to use this transition period to complete the shift to the new regulations as soon as possible.
The new regulations also provide a clearer division of certificate validity. For example, certificates for electronic and audio-video equipment are valid for 4 years, while certificates for other products are typically valid for 2 years.
Detailed Breakdown of IRAM Certification Costs:
The total cost for Argentine IRAM certification typically ranges from $3,000 to $15,000 USD (approximately RMB 20,000 to 100,000), depending specifically on product complexity and certification scheme.
The main components of certification costs are as follows:
1.Safety Testing Fees: The core part of certification costs, ranging from $3,000-$10,000 USD depending on product type and testing standards. Complex products like major appliances require more test items and man-hours, thus incurring higher costs.
2.Factory Audit Fees: Also not negligible. If the mark certification scheme is chosen, initial factory audits and annual surveillance audits are required, costing $1,000-$3,000 USD per audit.
3.EMC Testing Fees: For electronic and electrical products, the National Communications Agency (ENACOM) requires Electromagnetic Compatibility testing. EMC testing fees are approximately RMB 10,000-30,000.
4.Energy Efficiency Testing Fees: An additional cost for high-energy-consumption products like air conditioners and refrigerators, approximately $2,000-$5,000 USD.
5.Certificate Maintenance Annual Fee: An ongoing expense after certification is obtained, the specific amount varies by certification body.
Impact of Product Type and Certification Scheme on Cost:
1.Product Complexity: The primary factor affecting certification costs. Technically complex products require more test items and man-hours, naturally leading to higher fees.
2.Cost Differences by Product Type:
-Common Household Appliances (e.g., hair dryers, rice cookers): Safety certification fees approximately $4,000-$8,000 USD.
-Complex Appliances (e.g., air conditioners, refrigerators): Safety certification fees can reach $8,000-$15,000 USD.
-Simple Electronic Products (e.g., power adapters): Safety certification fees typically $3,000-$5,000 USD.
-Choice of Certification Scheme also directly impacts cost:
·Type Approval: Only requires product testing plus document review, no factory inspection, lower cost.
·Mark Certification: Requires product testing plus initial factory inspection and post-certification surveillance, higher cost.
Companies can choose the appropriate certification scheme based on product characteristics and market strategy to balance cost and benefits.
IRAM Certification Cost Optimization Strategies and Practical Advice:
1.Utilize CB Report Conversion: One of the most effective ways to reduce costs. Argentina is a member of the CB Scheme. This means CB certificates and test reports can be recognized during the certification process, helping to avoid duplicate testing.
2.Prepare Spanish Documents in Advance: Also a key strategy for cost optimization. All submitted technical files, labels, and manuals must be provided in Spanish version.
3.For companies planning long-term entry into the Argentine market, choosing the mark certification scheme and utilizing CB report conversion, while involving higher upfront investment, is more economical in the long run.
4.Bundling Applications for Similar Products is also a cost-saving strategy. Testing multiple similar products at once can save significant costs compared to testing each product individually.
5.Cooperating with an experienced certification consulting agency like BLUEASIA can also help companies choose the most cost-effective certification path, avoiding extra costs from detours.
IRAM Certification Process and Budget Under New Regulations:
The new certification process has multiple updates in detail that require special attention:
1·Preparation and Testing Phase: First, determine the applicable IRAM standards based on product type. These standards are often based on international IEC standards but include Argentine national differences.
2.Sample Testing: Must be completed by an IRAM or OAA recognized laboratory. If you already hold a valid CB report, it can greatly avoid duplicate testing, saving costs and time.
3.Document Submission and Review Phase: Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is a mandatory requirement under the new regulations. Manufacturers and importers must submit a Spanish Declaration of Conformity.
All submitted technical files, labels, and manuals must be provided in Spanish or bilingual versions. Please note: non-Argentine companies must submit applications through a local importer or agent.
4.Certification and Market Access Phase: Certificate validity varies by product. For example, certificates for electronic and audio-video equipment are valid for 4 years, while certificates for other products are typically valid for 2 years.
The use of the new mark is the most significant change in 2025. Starting October 1, 2025, the new version conformity mark must be affixed to the product or its primary packaging. This mark must contain a QR code that links to the Spanish Declaration of Conformity when scanned.
Products without the IRAM certification mark face the risk of being detained or fined at Argentine customs. As market supervision in Argentina shifts from border inspections to post-market surveillance, the importance of compliance becomes increasingly prominent.
Clear budget planning, making good use of CB conversion opportunities, and keeping up with the new mark regulations will be the three keys to successfully obtaining IRAM certification and controlling costs in 2025. BLUEASIA: +86 13534225140, will provide you with professional certification consulting services!
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