The SONCAP Certificate of Conformity (SC) is a mandatory customs clearance document required for regulated products imported into Nigeria.
Each shipment must obtain its own SC, issued based on a valid Product Certificate (PC).
In 2025, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) continues to enhance electronic verification and traceability to strengthen market supervision and reduce counterfeit certifications.
According to SON regulations, almost all imported goods must undergo SONCAP certification and receive an SC certificate before customs clearance — except a few exempted categories such as:
Food and agricultural goods
Pharmaceuticals and medical products
Military and security equipment
| Product Category | Core Applicable Standards | Key Requirements Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical & Electronic Products | SON 60335-1 (based on IEC 60335-1) | • Safety Testing: Compliance with local or international safety standards. • EMC Testing: Must meet CISPR 32 limits (≤ 40dBμV/m, 30MHz–1GHz). • Energy Efficiency Labeling: Air conditioners and similar appliances require MEPS labels (Levels 1–5). |
| Automotive Components | NIS 744 | Must comply with Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) for safety and performance. |
| Building Materials | NIS 117 (e.g., steel, cement) | Must comply with strength and material composition requirements under NIS. |
| Food Contact Materials | NIS 685 | Must pass chemical safety testing, including limits for heavy metal migration. |
✅ Voltage & Localization
Electronic products must match Nigeria’s 230V/50Hz system and use UK plug types (BS 1363 or BS 546).
✅ Product Labeling
Each certified product must include:
“SONCAP Certified” label
Importer’s address (in Nigeria)
Tamper-evident label for traceability
1. Strict Customs Enforcement
Products without valid SONCAP certificates will be detained by customs.
If non-compliance is confirmed, the goods may be:
Tested at importer’s expense
Confiscated or destroyed by Nigerian authorities
2. Electronic Certification Integration
In 2025, SON fully implemented e-SONCAP, linked with the NICIS (Nigeria Customs Information System), improving efficiency and transparency through:
Real-time verification
Faster certificate issuance
Reduced risk of forgery
✅ Ensures smooth customs clearance in Nigeria
✅ Prevents shipment detention and financial loss
✅ Builds trust with Nigerian importers
✅ Reduces compliance risks and delays
1. Plan Certification Early
Confirm your product’s SONCAP category before shipping to avoid customs delays.
2. Verify Standards
Always refer to the latest NIS or IEC standards applicable to your products.
3. Work with Accredited Labs & Consultants
Partner with SON-authorized agencies or experienced compliance firms for accurate, efficient certification.
4. Maintain Complete Documentation
Keep your Product Certificate (PC), test reports, and shipment records ready for inspection or renewal.
Q1: What is the difference between a Product Certificate (PC) and a SONCAP Certificate (SC)?
The PC is issued after testing and factory assessment.
The SC is shipment-specific and mandatory for customs clearance.
Q2: How long does it take to obtain a SONCAP SC certificate?
Typically 3–7 business days, depending on the completeness of documents.
Q3: Can international test reports (CE/IEC) support SONCAP applications?
Yes. Reports based on CE, IEC, or ISO standards are acceptable references but must align with local Nigerian voltage and labeling requirements.
Q4: Is SONCAP required for all electronics?
Yes — all electrical and electronic equipment under regulation must hold valid SONCAP certification.
Q5: What happens if my product arrives without an SC?
Shipments will be detained, and may be tested or destroyed if found non-compliant.
Phone / WeChat: +86 13534225140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Website: www.blueasialabs.com
BLUEASIA provides end-to-end SONCAP certification support, including document preparation, product testing coordination, and regulatory guidance — ensuring your exports to Nigeria are compliant, efficient, and market-ready.
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