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Verification of Conformity Programs

Overview

1. What are Verification of Conformity Programs?

VOC, also known as Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) or Conformity Assessment Programs, are regulatory schemes introduced by governments to ensure that imported goods comply with national standards and regulations before they enter the country.

These programs are typically mandated by national authorities (e.g. standards bureaus or ministries) and are a mandatory requirement for customs clearance in many countries. Without successful verification and issuance of the required certificate, goods may be refused entry.

For example:

  • In Egypt, products without a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) may be denied entry
  • In South Sudan, a CoC is required for every consignment to clear customs

2. Why do these programs exist?

The main objectives of conformity verification programs are:

  • Protection of consumers and public safety
  • Ensuring product quality and compliance with national standards
  • Prevention of substandard or counterfeit goods entering the market
  • Facilitation of fair trade and regulatory control

Governments rely on independent, approved inspection bodies (like Baltic Control) to perform these verifications at the country of export.

3. Key elements of Verification of Conformity Programs

Although each country has its own specific requirements, most programs follow a similar structure:

3.1 Documentation Verification

Exporters must submit key documents such as:

  • Commercial invoice
  • Packing list
  • Certificate of origin
  • Test reports or quality certificates

These documents are reviewed to verify compliance with applicable standards.

3.2 Inspection and Testing

Depending on the program and product:

  • Physical inspection of goods is conducted
  • Samples may be taken for laboratory testing (typically ISO 17025 accredited labs)
  • Verification ensures that goods match documentation and meet required standards

3.3 Certification

If the shipment complies with requirements, a certificate is issued:

  • CoC (Certificate of Conformity)
  • COI (Certificate of Inspection)
  • PSIC (Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate)

This document is mandatory for customs clearance in the destination country.

3.4 Clearance at Destination

Authorities in the importing country may:

  • Accept the certificate and release goods
  • Perform additional verification if required

For example, in Pakistan, goods may still be subject to verification upon arrival, even with a PSIC

4. Types of Conformity Verification Approaches

Programs may operate under different models depending on risk level and product category:

  • Consignment-based verification
    Each shipment is inspected and certified individually
  • Registration-based routes (fast track)
    For trusted manufacturers with quality systems
    Example: GOEIC Route B for regular exporters
  • Product certification / licensing
    For frequently exported, standardized goods
  • Random inspection regimes
    Reduced inspection frequency based on compliance history

5. Role of Baltic Control

Baltic Control acts as an independent, approved inspection body appointed by national authorities to carry out conformity verification.

Our scope includes:

  • Document review and compliance assessment
  • Physical inspection and supervision of loading
  • Sampling and coordination of laboratory testing
  • Verification of labeling, packaging, and product parameters
  • Issuance of certificates (CoC, COI, PSIC)
  • Communication with local authorities and program owners

In many programs, Baltic Control is formally appointed by the authority (e.g. SSNBS, SSMO, GOEIC) to issue certificates required for import clearance

6. Regulatory framework and approvals

Participation in these programs requires formal approval by national authorities.

Baltic Control holds approvals for multiple programs, including:

  • PSQCA (Pakistan)
  • SSNBS (South Sudan)
  • SSMO (Sudan)
  • GOEIC (Egypt)

7. Responsibilities of Exporters and Importers

Exporters:

  • Provide accurate documentation
  • Ensure goods comply with required standards
  • Arrange inspection and testing
  • Cover inspection and certification costs

Importers:

  • Ensure shipments are compliant before dispatch
  • Present required certificates to customs
  • Pay applicable local fees (where required)

8. Key takeaway

Conformity Verification Programs are a critical part of international trade compliance. They ensure that goods meet regulatory requirements before shipment, reducing risks at destination and enabling smooth customs clearance.

Baltic Control plays a central role in these programs by acting as a trusted third-party verifier between exporters, importers, and national authorities.

9. Next steps

For detailed requirements, processes, and documentation, refer to dedicated articles for each program: