As a global leader in inspection and testing services, TÜV Rheinland is dedicated to supporting you in navigating the complex requirements of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) scheme. Our team of experts is here to ensure that the process of entering the Saudi Arabian market is as smooth and risk-free as possible.
We have been appointed as a notified body by the SFDA and are authorized to issue Certificates of Conformity (CoC) for consignments of food and cosmetic products exported from specific countries to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These products must comply with SFDA standards to be eligible for entry into the KSA market, and TÜV Rheinland is here to help ensure that your products meet these requirements.
From document verification to pre-shipment inspection, our team of experts will assist you every step of the way to guarantee that your products are compliant with SFDA standards. We have extensive experience in conformity assessment programs globally, and our short lead times, established relationships with local authorities, and expertise make us the ideal partner for SFDA compliance.
In October 2021, the Saudi Food & Drug Authority introduced a new platform for food and cosmetics shipments named ‘FASEH’, which requires Saudi importers with a FASEH-account to register shipments and request for the ‘Certificates of Conformity’ on the platform. TÜV Rheinland is an SFDA-approved certification body and authorized to issue the required ‘Certificate of Conformity’ through the ‘FASEH’ platform. We are committed to supporting and guiding you in meeting the new platform requirements, ensuring smooth access of your products to the Saudi Arabian market.
To initiate the process, the applicant must submit the following documents:
A completed and signed TÜV Rheinland application form
A test report for applicable products
A pro-forma invoice
A packing list
An SFDA license for the exporter (applicable for selected food products)
Container sealing (mandatory for food products)
An E-Cosma number (mandatory for cosmetics products)
By partnering with TÜV Rheinland, you can have confidence that your products will meet SFDA requirements and enter the KSA market effortlessly. Our team is committed to providing you with exceptional service and support and helping you navigate the SFDA scheme with confidence.
For more information on our SFDA compliance services and how we can help you enter the KSA market with ease, please contact us today.
Process of COC issuance under SFDA scheme
Food Products Countries
We are authorized to issue a Certificate of Conformity (COC) according to the SFDA regulations for food products in the following countries:
Cosmetics Products Countries
We are authorized to issue a Certificate of Conformity (COC) according to the SFDA regulations for cosmetics products in the following countries:
Regulated Products
Regulated food product categories under the SFDA conformity scheme:
Cheese
Fish and aquatic
Honey
Infant milk
Packing and packaging
Poultry
Processed meats
Processed vegetables and fruits
Red meat
Rice
Spices, coffee and tea
Sugar and candy
Regulated cosmetics product categories under the SFDA conformity scheme:
Skin and hair care
Toilet and soaps
Bath & shower preparations products
Depilatories
Deodorants and Antiperspirants
Hair Tents and bleaches
Shaving products
Make-up products
Dental care products
Certificate Validity
Shipment CoC = Issued for a specific shipment
Samples required
Conditionally
FAQ for Certificate of Conformity (SFDA-scheme for Saudi Arabia)
Gain a smooth access to the Saudi Arabia Market
1.
General Information
Why is conformity assessment important for food and cosmetic products?
Conformity assessment ensures that food and cosmetic products meet the necessary standards and regulations, ensuring consumer safety and promoting fair market competition.
What is the role of TÜV Rheinland in the SFDA scheme?
TÜV Rheinland is authorized conformity body by SFDA provides comprehensive conformity assessment services to support businesses in complying with the SFDA requirements for food and cosmetic products.
What is the purpose of the SFDA scheme for food and cosmetic products?
The SFDA scheme aims to ensure the safety, quality, and compliance of food and cosmetic products sold in Saudi Arabia.
Do all food and cosmetic products need to be registered under the SFDA scheme?
Yes, all food and cosmetic products intended for sale in Saudi Arabia must undergo registration and conformity assessment under the SFDA scheme.
How can businesses determine if their products require conformity assessment under the SFDA scheme?
Businesses should consult the SFDA regulations and guidelines or seek assistance from a conformity assessment service provider like TÜV Rheinland to determine if their products fall under the scope of the scheme.
2.
Process Information
How does the conformity assessment process work?
The process typically involves an initial review of product documentation, followed by testing, inspection, and certification procedures to assess compliance with SFDA regulations.
How long does the conformity assessment process typically take?
The timeframe can vary depending on the complexity of the product and the testing required. It is recommended to consult with TÜV Rheinland for a more accurate estimate.
Are there any specific labeling requirements that businesses need to adhere to during the conformity assessment process?
Yes, the SFDA has specific labeling requirements for food and cosmetic products, including but not limited to information about ingredients, usage instructions, and safety warnings.
3.
Service Information
What services does TÜV Rheinland offer for the SFDA scheme?
TÜV Rheinland offers a range of services including product testing, inspection, certification, regulatory compliance assistance, and market access support.
Can TÜV Rheinland provide guidance on labeling requirements for food and cosmetic products?
Yes, TÜV Rheinland offers consulting services to help businesses understand and comply with the SFDA's labeling requirements.
Does TÜV Rheinland provide assistance in resolving non-compliance issues identified during the conformity assessment process?
Yes, TÜV Rheinland offers guidance and support to businesses to address non-compliance issues and work towards rectifying them.
Can TÜV Rheinland provide training programs related to the SFDA scheme?
Yes, TÜV Rheinland offers training programs to help businesses understand the SFDA requirements and navigate the conformity assessment process.
How can businesses verify the authenticity of a certification issued by TÜV Rheinland?
TÜV Rheinland provides a verification system where businesses, authorities, and consumers can validate the authenticity of a certification online.
Does TÜV Rheinland assist businesses in utilizing the FASEH & GHAD platforms effectively?
Yes, TÜV Rheinland provides guidance and support to businesses to effectively utilize the FASEH & GHAD platforms for their conformity assessment processes.
What types of testing does TÜV Rheinland offer as part of the SFDA conformity assessment services?
TÜV Rheinland provides a wide range of testing services, including microbiological testing, chemical analysis, physical testing, and all required parameters as per SFDA requirements.
Does TÜV Rheinland assist businesses in utilizing the FASEH & GHAD platforms effectively
Yes, TÜV Rheinland provides guidance and support to businesses to effectively utilize the FASEH & GHAD platforms for their conformity assessment processes.
Do all cosmetic products need to be registered under the SFDA scheme?
Yes, and cosmetic products intended for sale in Saudi Arabia must undergo registration and conformity assessment under the SFDA scheme.
Do the importer need to open Ghad account?
Yes, It is mandatory to create Ghad account for the importer company to register cosmetic products and issue the CoC
Do the importer need to reregister the product on Ghad if it is already registered in eCosma?
Yes, all active products on eCosma will be migrated to Ghad system automatically once the importer activate Ghad account.
Expert Interview with Tamer Qazza, General Manager for Government Inspections and International Trade – SFDA Scheme
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