SGS highlights regulatory changes for Ivory Coast’s import market
SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, is alerting importers to regulatory changes affecting trade with the Ivory Coast and sets out the best routes to trade compliance.
The structure of Ivory Coast imports has significantly changed, with vast road and bridge construction projects stimulating the appearance of new machines, devices and mechanical engines. Mining companies are also shaping trade, with an increase in exploration and exploitation permits. Alongside these changes, importers need to be aware of regulatory shifts which can affect their businesses.
New energy labeling requirements
With an aim to provide transparency in energy consumption and environmental impact, a new requirement came into effect on 1st July 2024, for the labeling of imported electric lamps, refrigerators, freezers and domestic air conditioners. This applies to importers, distributors and resellers under custom circular 2309/MFB/DGD.
PCA program extension
The Ivory Coast’s 2019 PCA program has been extended until June 30, 2025. This covers the following product categories:
- Certain health, safety and environmental products
- Footwear
- Packaging
- Pressure equipment
- Toys
- Construction materials
- Automotive spare parts, accessories and lubricants
- Food products
- Cosmetic and personal hygiene products
- Electrical, electronic and renewable energy products
- Textiles
Effective routes to trade compliance:
Understanding Statements of Registration and Statements of Licensure
Product registration is a method of registering the products usually shipped to buyers in Ivory Coast through either a Statement of Registration (SOR) or a Statement of Licensure (SOL).
Routes to registration
The SOR, which benefits from Route B on each shipment, is recommended for frequent exporters of homogeneous products, while the SOL, which benefits from Route C, is intended for manufacturers of certified products or their official representatives. Inspections are done on a quarterly basis for SOR, and on a bi-annual basis for SOL shipments.
Holding a SOR for Route B or a SOL for Route C enables exporters to:
- Prove the quality of a product and the reputation of a brand through the principle of rigorous registration
- Achieve an economy of scale by reducing the cost of obtaining certificates of conformity (CoC) for each shipment
- Reduce the time it takes to obtain a CoC
- Centralize export operations for all buyers in Ivory Coast to provide better visibility of entire operations
- Benefit from a customized service relying on a dedicated contact person at SGS – helping to facilitate effective communication and the prompt processing of certification requests
Voluntary certification for importers
Voluntary certification is suitable for importers if they can ensure their products comply with the Ivory Coast’s national standards/technical regulations. It is permitted for goods not subject to the requirements of the Verification of Conformity (VoC) program, and for shipments below the minimum threshold value.
