South Africa has introduced a mandatory Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) program as an update to the Standards Act (2008). The directive intended to tighten the quality control of imported goods by shifting compliance checks to the point of export. The measure, as formally announced in the Government Gazette on 20 March 2026, is scheduled to take effect as of the end of September 2026, following a six‑month transitional period.
Under the new rules, importers must obtain a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) that confirms their products meet the relevant South African National Standards relating to quality and safety. Any goods arriving without a valid CoC may be subject to delays, additional testing or refused entry altogether. Conformity assessment may involve document review, laboratory testing, factory audits and physical inspection, depending on the product risk profile. The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) has been designated as the Program Administrator and will be responsible for appointing and overseeing the inspection bodies that will conduct testing and certification in the relevant exporting nations.
Initially, the program only applies to specified products shipped from the Chinese Mainland, all of which will need to be tested and certified before they enter South Africa. The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) has, however, stressed that, ultimately, the program will not be restricted to just one country. The Chinese Mainland, though, has been selected for the pilot phase because as it is South Africa’s largest import partner and a major source of consumer goods.
The list of “High risks unregulated products” set for initial scrutiny is said to include cosmetic items, furniture, home and kitchenware, solar panels and toys.
Importers to contact SABS directly.