Saudi Cargo, What are requirements for exporting hardware products to Saudi?
The hardware market in Saudi offers considerable profit potential, but compliance costs are rising. A recent anti-dumping case involving stainless steel pipes signals Saudi's strengthening of trade protection measures. Exporters are advised to stay updated on regulatory changes to avoid customs clearance delays or the risk of return shipments.
Starting in 2025, Saudi will implement several new regulations, including mandatory certifications, anti-dumping duties, and labeling requirements. Below are the key policies and operational highlights:
1. Mandatory SABER Certification
PCoC (Product Certificate of Conformity): Required for product registration, proving compliance with Saudi technical standards. Requires submission of test reports, technical documents, etc. Valid for one year, and not required to reapply for repeat shipments of the same product.
SCoC (Shipment Certificate of Conformity): Required for each shipment, essential for customs clearance. Must be obtained before the goods arrive at port. Late applications after arrival are invalid and may result in clearance failure and port detention fees.
Cancellation of Letter of Commitment: Previously, certain products were allowed to use a letter of commitment in place of certification. Under the new regulations, this substitution is entirely abolished.
2. Special Restrictions on Hardware Products
Anti-dumping Duties: From June 30, 2025, Saudi will impose anti-dumping duties of 6.5% to 27.3% on stainless steel pipes from China (including Taiwan), valid for five years. Other hardware products are not currently included, but exporters should monitor policy updates.
Tariffs and VAT: The average import tariff is 4.58%, and some industrial raw materials/equipment may qualify for duty exemptions. VAT is 15%, calculated based on the CIF value plus duties.
3. Labeling and Documentation Requirements
Product Marking: Products must be permanently marked with "MADE IN CHINA". Labels must be in English or Arabic. For power tools, an Arabic user manual is required.
Customs Documentation: Includes bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and submission through Saudi's FASAH (National Single Window) platform.
4. Operational Recommendations
Plan Certification in Advance: PCoC processing takes around 30 days, so allocate sufficient time before shipment. SCoC must be applied for after shipment but before port arrival, along with the bill of lading to confirm shipping status.
HS Code Verification: Use the SABER platform to verify your product's customs (HS) code, avoiding misclassification as a restricted item.
Responding to Anti-dumping Measures: For stainless steel pipe exports, budget for the additional duty or consider product category adjustments, such as using seamless pipes instead.
Ontask Express focuses on the Saudi special line, providing customers with efficient and reliable Saudi cargo, with a focus on the Middle East region. With overseas warehouses in Jeddah and Riyadh, along with a self-managed Chinese delivery team, we empower Chinese products to go global and benefit all humanity!