The Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP) is a mandatory certification system designed to ensure imported goods comply with Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) or relevant international standards.
SONCAP applies to regulated products and is required for customs clearance before the goods can enter the Nigerian market.
Without SONCAP certification, your products cannot pass customs inspection — leading to detention, extra costs, or even confiscation.
The SONCAP system consists of three major certificate types, each serving a specific purpose during importation:
| Certificate Type | Core Purpose & Applicable Scenario | Required Documents | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product Certificate (PC) | Demonstrates product compliance with Nigerian or relevant international standards; prerequisite for SC application. | Test Report, Quality Certificates, Factory Audit (depending on product) | 1 year |
| SONCAP Certificate (SC) | Mandatory for customs clearance, issued per shipment. | Valid PC, Form M, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading | One-time use (per shipment) |
| Form M | Import declaration document approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria; required before SC application. | PC certificate, Proforma Invoice, Importer details | Valid for the duration of the import transaction |
2️⃣ Step 1: Obtain Product Certificate (PC)
Before applying for a PC, your product must be tested in an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory. Testing ensures compliance with Nigerian or equivalent international standards, covering aspects like:
Product performance
Safety requirements
Environmental compliance
Once testing is complete, the certification body reviews the documents and issues the Product Certificate (PC).
3️⃣ Step 2: Importer Applies for Form M & SONCAP Certificate (SC)
After obtaining the PC, your Nigerian importer must apply for Form M through a local bank or Nigeria’s trade portal.
Form M is mandatory for customs entry.
Once the goods are shipped, the importer (or exporter) consolidates all shipping and product documents to apply for the SONCAP Certificate (SC).
➡️ If documentation is complete, the SC is typically issued within 1 business day.
1️⃣ Strict Enforcement & Consequences of Non-Compliance
Products arriving without valid SONCAP certification cannot clear customs.
Authorities may:
Detain or confiscate goods
Conduct product sampling and testing (at importer’s cost)
Destroy non-compliant goods
2️⃣ Plan Ahead — Timeline Expectations
PC Certificate: 2–4 weeks processing time
SC Certificate: 1 business day (if all documents are ready)
3️⃣ Document Consistency Is Critical
Ensure product names, models, and specifications match across all documents — including test reports, PC, and SC applications. Any discrepancy can result in delays or rejection.
Complying with SONCAP not only ensures smooth customs clearance but also demonstrates:
Your product’s quality and safety compliance
Trustworthiness for Nigerian importers
Reduced inspection risks for future shipments
BLUEASIA provides professional certification consulting services for SONCAP, including document review, test coordination, and certification body communication.
We help manufacturers and exporters:
Identify applicable SONCAP requirements
Prepare accurate test and application documents
Obtain PC and SC certificates efficiently
Contact Us:
Phone: +86 13534225140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Website: www.blueasialabs.com
Q1: What is the difference between PC and SC certificates?
➡ PC (Product Certificate) confirms product compliance before shipment, while SC (SONCAP Certificate) is required for customs clearance per shipment.
Q2: How long is the SONCAP certificate valid?
➡ The PC is valid for 1 year, while the SC is valid only for a single shipment.
Q3: Can I use international test reports for PC application?
➡ Yes, but they must come from ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories, and the test scope must align with Nigerian standards.
Q4: Who applies for Form M?
➡ The Nigerian importer applies for Form M through a local bank before goods are shipped.
Q5: What happens if the product description differs across documents?
➡ Any mismatch between test reports, PC, and SC may cause application rejection or customs delays.
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