SONCAP Product Certificate: How to Apply and Activate SONCAP Product Certificate

SONCAP stands for Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme. It is a product certification scheme implemented by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).

SONCAP aims to ensure that products imported into Nigeria meet relevant Nigerian industrial standards, regulations, and quality requirements.

Under SONCAP, products are subjected to pre-shipment verification and testing to ensure compliance with Nigerian standards before they are allowed entry into the Nigerian market.

This certification helps to protect consumers from substandard products and supports fair trade practices by ensuring that imported goods meet specified quality and safety standards.

SONCAP certification covers a wide range of products, including electrical and electronic equipment, automotive products, chemicals, food items, and more.

Manufacturers and importers seeking to export goods to Nigeria must obtain SONCAP certification to demonstrate compliance with Nigerian regulatory requirements.

How to Apply SONCAP Certificate

To apply for SONCAP Product Certification, exporters need to follow a specific procedure outlined by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).

The application process involves obtaining both a SONCAP PC certificate and a SONCAP SC certificate.

1. The exporter must first apply for a SONCAP Product Certificate (PC), which is required for Nigerian local banks to apply for Form M.
2. Once the SONCAP PC certificate is completed, it needs to be examined thoroughly.
3. After receiving the SONCAP PC certificate, the exporter can then apply for a single batch of SONCAP Certificate (SC) customs clearing certificates.
4. The exporter submits an application for the SONCAP certificate along with the Form M form and the processed PC certificate.
5. The Nigerian importer uses the PC certificate to apply for the Form M form through their local bank.
6. Once the Form M form is obtained, it is submitted along with the application for the SONCAP certificate.

How to Activate SONCAP Certificate

To activate a SONCAP certificate, exporters need to follow specific steps outlined by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).

The activation process varies for Product Certificate (PC) and SONCAP Certificate (SC).

For Product Certificate (PC):

1. Access the SONCAP Online Application: Log in to the SONCAP Online application platform.
2. Apply to Activate Product Certificate: Click on the “Apply to Activate Product Certificate” button.
3. Complete the Form: Input the Certificate Number, Importer Name, TIN Number, and Importer Phone Number into the provided fields.
4. Submit the Form: Click on the “Submit” button to complete the form. A pop-up message will confirm activation.
5. Verify Activation: To verify that the certificate has been sent to the Customs/NICIS portal:
   • Go to the SON Certificate database.
   • Input the Certificate Number and click on “Product Certificate”.
   • Click on “Search” to display the certificate.
   • Proceed with the Form M process.

For SONCAP Certificate (SC):

1. Access the SONCAP Online Application: Log in to the SONCAP Online application platform.
2. Apply to Activate SONCAP Certificate/Import Permit: Click on the “Apply to Activate SONCAP Certificate” button.
3. Input Importer TIN: Input FIRS validated TIN already registered on the Trade Portal that will be used for PAAR processing.
4. Complete the Form: Input the SONCAP/Certificate Number, Importer Name, TIN Number, and Importer Phone Number into the provided fields.
5. Submit the Form: Click on the “Submit” button to complete the form. A pop-up message will confirm activation.
6. Verify Activation: To verify that the certificate has been sent to the Customs/NICIS portal:
   • Go to the SON Certificate database .
   • Input the Certificate Number and click on the “SONCAP Certificate”.
   • Click on “Search” to display the certificate.
   • Proceed with the PAAR process.

READ ALSO:

• A Comprehensive Guide to Starting Your Importation Business in Nigeria
• How to get NAFDAC Registration Number For Your Products (Cosmetics, Food, Drugs, and other Local and Imported Products)
• How to Obtain Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Nigeria for Both Individuals and Organizations (Online and Offline Registration)

Conclusion

By following these steps, exporters of products into Nigeria can successfully Apply and activate their SONCAP certificates, ensuring compliance with Nigerian import regulations and facilitating the customs clearance process.