GCC Certification
Gulf Cooperation Council
Definition
GCC certification is a product certification system launched by the Gulf Cooperation Council, which is a mandatory certification. It is used to ensure that products entering the Gulf market comply with local technical regulations and safety standards. This certification is applicable in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Yemen, the seven member countries.
1
Certified Products and Scope
GCC certification is not mandatory for all products, but mainly applies to the following categories:
| Product Category | Examples |
|
Household appliances and components |
Fans, refrigerators/freezers, microwaves, washing machines Small kitchen appliances (grinders/blenders/juicers/toasters) Heating devices (hair dryers/hand dryers/household appliances/irons) Water heaters (instant/storage) Accessories (plugs/sockets/adapters/charging components/chargers) |
| Children’s toys | Various types of toys |
Note: The GSO (GCC Standardization Organization) periodically updates the mandatory certification product catalog. For example, in 2025, it plans to add commercial gas burner products to the catalog.
2
Certification Process
01
Confirm the product scope. First, confirm whether the product belongs to the GCC mandatory certification catalog. You can check this on the website using the product’s customs code (HS code).
02
Product testing. IEC reports, CB report certificates, CE reports, etc., can be accepted for transfer certification (issued within the last 3 years and meeting the latest standards).
03
Submit application materials: certification application form, product technical documents, company qualification documents, etc.
04
Registration and certification: After the materials are approved, the certification body will register the product in the GSO database, and the system will automatically assign a unique registration number. The certification body will then issue the G-mark certificate.
05
Use of the mark and customs clearance: After obtaining the certificate, the G-mark must be used on the product and its packaging. It is important to note that even with GCC certification, when exporting products to specific countries in the Gulf, it may still be necessary to apply for specific customs clearance documents for that country.
3
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the validity period of the certificate??
The validity period for electrical equipment is 3 years; for toy products, it is 5 years; there is an annual fee for the certificate, approximately 500 Saudi Riyals.
Answer
Can the certificate be renewed after it expires??
Yes, renewal requires providing the latest standard report for re-certification while retaining the original certificate number information.
Answer
What are the plug requirements for GCC??
Type G plug (BS 1363 standard)
This type of plug features three rectangular flat pins arranged in a triangular formation, with the earth pin being longer and thicker. The plug body is typically rectangular and contains a fuse, requiring GCC certification.
Answer
Is a local agent required for GCC certification??
GCC requires that the actual local importer holds the certificate.
Answer
The correct usage requirements for the GCC certification mark are as follows:
Can products with GCC certification be shipped directly??
No. Some countries require additional certifications for customs clearance. For example, Saudi Arabia requires further certifications such as PC+SC, while Kuwait requires TIR+TER certification. Further certifications must be obtained based on the requirements of different countries; GCC certification is only one of the basic certification requirements.
Answer
END
Guided by | Luo Qiuping
Edited by | Huang Shicheng
Reviewed by | Wang Wenping
