The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) is a governmental body in Saudi Arabia responsible for setting national standards for various products to ensure they meet quality and safety requirements. SASO certification is crucial for manufacturers and exporters who wish to enter the Saudi market, as it signifies compliance with the applicable Saudi technical regulations.

A SASO certification is a mandatory requirement for products being imported into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It ensures that imported goods comply with the relevant Saudi technical regulations and standards. The SASO certificate process involves several steps, including product testing and inspection, to verify compliance.

Who needs a SASO Certificate

• Exporters and manufacturers of products being shipped to Saudi Arabia.
• Importers who are bringing goods into the Saudi market.

The specific products requiring SASO certification can vary but typically include electrical and electronic items, automotive parts, building materials, textiles, and some consumer goods. The aim is to protect public health, safety, and the environment by ensuring that products meet Saudi Arabia's quality and safety standards.

SABER System:

To streamline the process of importing products into Saudi Arabia and to ensure compliance with SASO standards, the SABER system was introduced. SABER is an online platform that facilitates the issuance of Product Certificates of Conformity (PCoC) and Shipment Certificates of Conformity (SCoC) required for customs clearance. Here's how the two systems interact:

1. Regulatory Framework: SASO develops and updates technical regulations that define the safety and quality requirements products must meet to be sold in Saudi Arabia. These regulations cover a wide range of products, including electrical and electronic devices, toys, building materials, and automotive parts.
2. SABER Platform: SABER serves as the electronic gateway for obtaining the necessary certifications. Manufacturers or their representatives must register their products on the SABER platform and provide detailed information about the products, including HS codes, technical documents, and conformity evidence.
3. Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC): Before a product can enter the Saudi market, it needs a PCoC, which verifies that the product complies with the relevant SASO standards. The SABER system streamlines this process by allowing applicants to submit their products for conformity assessment electronically.
4. Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC): For each shipment entering Saudi Arabia, an SCoC is required. This certificate confirms that the products in the shipment comply with the Saudi technical regulations and standards. It is obtained through SABER by linking it to the already issued PCoC.
5. Quality Assurance: The integration of SASO and SABER ensures that only products meeting Saudi Arabia's safety, quality, and environmental standards can enter the market. This protects consumers and facilitates trade by providing a clear and efficient certification process.

SASO establishes the regulatory framework for product standards in Saudi Arabia, while the SABER system operationalizes this framework by providing an online platform for obtaining the necessary certifications for product importation. Together, they ensure that products entering the Saudi market are safe, of high quality, and compliant with local regulations.