SONCAP is a programme for the verification of conformity of goods to be imported to Nigerian Standards before shipment. The programme includes the following verification methods: assessment of documents, sampling and testing by accredited laboratories, and pre-shipment surveillance. The application of specific methods depends on the characteristics of the products.

All Nigerian imported goods are subject to the SONCAP programme except for the following product groups: – Military goods and equipment, – Used goods other than automobiles, – Food products, – Medical supplies other than equipment and machinery, – Pharmaceuticals, – Chemicals used as raw materials by Bonafide manufacturers, – Goods classified as contraband by the Federal Government of Nigeria. Apart from this, Bonafide Manufacturers are advised to apply to SON for a SONCAP import permit to import machinery or related spare parts for their manufactures.

There are three different ways of assessing the conformity of goods defined by SON (Standards organization of Nigeria):

1. For exporters with irregular product shipments (registered and unlicensed products)
2. For exporters with regular product shipments (registered products)
3. For exporters with regular and large product shipments (licensed products)

A product shipment subject to any SONCAP program must be accompanied by a SONCAP Certificate (SC). A Product Certificate (PC) obtained in one of the following ways is also required for products to be imported into Nigeria (unregistered, registered or licensed).

If you have any questions regarding the SONCAP program for your exports to Nigeria, please contact us.