General Products Export Requirements and Certification Manual

NATIONAL BRAND DEVELOPMENT AND MADE IN NIGERIA SPECIAL PROJECT OFFICE

GENERAL PRODUCTS EXPORT REQUIREMENTS AND CERTIFICATION MANUAL

1. Business and Product Registration

a. Exporter Registration: All exporters must register their businesses with the appropriate national agency. In Nigeria, registration is done with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).

b. Identification Numbers: Obtain the required business identification numbers, such as an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Import-Exporter Code (IEC), depending on jurisdiction.

c. Product Classification: Identify and classify your goods using the Harmonized System (HS) Codes to determine applicable tariffs, documentation, and any special control measures.

2. Compliance and Documentation

a. Compliance with Destination Regulations: Exporters must comply with all import and product regulations of the destination country, including labeling, packaging, safety, health, and phytosanitary standards.

b. Export Licenses and Permits: Confirm whether your product requires a special export license or permit from relevant government agencies — especially for defense-related items, chemicals, or regulated agricultural goods.

c. Core Export Documents: The following documents are essential for customs clearance and payment processing:

- Proforma Invoice – A preliminary quotation used during negotiation and for securing import licenses or financing.

- Commercial Invoice – The final invoice containing a full description, quantity, value, and terms of sale.

- Packing List – Details of the shipment’s contents, packaging type, and weight/dimensions.

- Certificate of Origin – Certifies the country where goods were produced or manufactured.

- Transportation Document – Such as an Ocean Bill of Lading (for sea freight) or Air Waybill (for air shipments).

- Export Declaration Form – Filed with customs to declare shipment details and ensure compliance.

3. Logistics and Shipping

a. Freight Forwarding: Engage a licensed freight forwarder to handle transport logistics, booking, customs documentation, and shipment coordination.

b. Packaging and Labeling: Ensure all products are securely packaged for international transport and labeled in accordance with carrier and destination-country requirements.

c. Cargo Insurance: Obtain insurance coverage for your shipment to protect against loss, theft, or damage during transit.

d. Electronic Export Information (EEI): For high-value shipments, submit electronic export data to your country’s customs system as required.

4. Payment and Registration Documentation

a. Payment Method: Agree on a secure payment structure, such as a Letter of Credit, Bank Draft, or Advance Payment arrangement.

b. Required Registration Documents:

- Completed Application Form specific to the product.

- Certificate of Incorporation from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

- Trademark Registration Certificate for the brand name.

- Product Information, including product samples, sample labels, certificate of analysis, and supporting evidence for labeling claims.

5. Requirements for Imported Products

- Power of Attorney – Authorizing a local representative or importer.

- Manufacturer’s Information – A letter of invitation to inspect the manufacturer’s facility.

- Certificate of Manufacture and Free Sale – Verifies the product is legally produced and sold in its country of origin.

- Import Permit for Samples – Mandatory for importing samples during the registration process.

6. Additional Requirements

- Application Letter – Addressed to the registering authority.

- Proof of Payment – For all applicable registration or certification fees.

- Declaration Form – Notarized where required by law.

- Product-Specific Documents – Such as GMP Certificates for pharmaceuticals, or other sector-specific documents.

7. Key Export Certifications

- Certificate of Origin (CoO or CoC): Confirms the country of manufacture and is required for tariff assessment and trade compliance.

- Health or Phytosanitary Certificate: Certifies food, drugs, cosmetics, or agricultural goods meet health and safety standards.

- Certificate of Conformity (CoC): Verifies compliance with technical, quality, and safety standards.

- Certificate of Analysis (COA): Details product composition and laboratory test results.

- Export License/Registration Certificate: Authorizes a business to export goods (e.g., NEPC Exporter’s Certificate).

- Quality Management Certifications (Voluntary): International standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 22000, or HACCP.

8. General Process for Obtaining Certification

- Identify Destination Requirements.

- Product Testing and Inspection.

- Collaborate with accredited partners.

- Prepare and submit documentation.

- Undergo facility/product audits.

- Receive certification upon approval.

9. Essential Proof of Product Ownership and Authorization to Export

Exporters must possess the following valid documents:

- Clearance License Certificate from National Quarantine and Agricultural Bureau.

- Product Clearance Certificate from Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).

- Trademark Registration and Licensing for the product.

Exporters without the following will not be eligible for export:

- Bank Statement

- CAC Certificate

- Tax Clearance Certificate

- Proof of Business Ownership

- Valid Identification Cards

- Export Licence Certificate

- MAN Membership

- Record of Previous Export Activities

- Membership of a Recognized Trade Association.


This manual serves as an official guideline for exporters under the National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Special Project Office, ensuring all products meet international trade, safety, and quality standards.

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