Nigeria moves SONCAP and import permits onto single window
Since 27 March 2026, Nigeria's SONCAP and import permits can only be processed through the National Single Window (NSW) platform. The change aims for 24-hour clearance and removes the separate channels accredited bodies previously used.
Published · Updated
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) made it mandatory, from 27 March 2026, to go through the National Single Window (NSW) digital platform for all applications for Product Certificates, SONCAP Certificates and import permits linked to Form M. SON no longer processes these files through the separate channels that previously coexisted with the SON portal.
For clients going through an accredited inspection agency (IAF), certificate generation still takes place on the SON portal, but its activation for Form M, the PAAR (Pre-Arrival Assessment Report) and cargo clearance must now be done on the NSW. SON's stated goal is a clearance cycle cut to 24 hours through centralised risk management.
The measure took effect on 27 March 2026, with no grace period mentioned by SON: as of 27 September 2026, it is fully in effect for any new application.
All importers of SONCAP-regulated products from China are affected, notably electronics, toys, electrical equipment and household appliances, as are their freight forwarders and the accredited inspection agencies that issue the certificates.
What it changes for an importer
For an importer buying in China, this means the Product Certificate and the SONCAP Certificate must be applied for and then activated on the NSW before the goods arrive in Lagos or Port Harcourt, or risk having Form M and the PAAR blocked. Sorva can check upfront, factory by factory, whether the exported product falls under SONCAP and coordinate with the accredited inspection agency so the documents are ready in the correct format before loading, without ever standing in for the Nigerian importer, who remains solely responsible for clearance on the ground.
The certifications your country requires
In US dollars, on quotation, added to the same core service.
Nigeria SONCAP pack
On quotationIn US dollars
The conformity assessment programme of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) requires, for regulated products, a product certificate and then a certificate for each shipment, issued by an accredited body.
- Check of your product’s status under SONCAP
- Test reports and technical documents obtained from the factory
- Coordination of the factory inspection with the accredited body
- A file ready for the application you file as the importer
West and Central Africa Mandatory pre-shipment inspection
On quotationIn US dollars
Several West and Central African countries require a pre-shipment inspection by a government-appointed body, such as Bureau Veritas (BIVAC), Cotecna or SGS depending on the country, which issues the certificate required for customs clearance.
- Identification of the appointed body for your country
- Pro forma invoice and packing list prepared with the factory
- Factory access and goods ready on inspection day
- Our own check before the inspector arrives
Importing from China?
Tell us what you want to buy. Our team answers on WhatsApp with the factories, the lead times and the documents your country asks for.
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