When exporting electrical, mechanical, or industrial products to overseas markets, compliance with local safety and regulatory standards is essential. Below is an overview of key certifications commonly required across major regions.
1. CE Certification (European Union)
CE is a mandatory conformity mark for products entering the EU. It indicates compliance with relevant EU directives under the “New Approach” technical harmonization framework. Products without CE marking cannot be legally traded in the EU market.
Recognized in: EU member states
Not recognized in: Non-EU countries (e.g., United States, Canada, Japan)
Typical product categories: Electrical devices, machinery, toys, medical devices, wireless and telecom equipment, refrigeration appliances
2. RoHS Compliance (European Union)
RoHS restricts the use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. Certified products comply with environmental requirements and facilitate market access within the EU.
Substance limits:
• Lead, mercury, hexavalent chromium: < 0.1%
• Cadmium: < 0.01%
Recognized in: EU
Typical product categories: Household appliances, IT equipment, power tools, medical electrical devices, lighting, and other electronic products
3. UKCA Certification (United Kingdom)
After Brexit, the UK introduced UKCA as the new conformity assessment framework. It replaces CE marking for products sold in England, Scotland, and Wales.
Legal basis: UK Conformity Assessment Regulations 2020
Effective from: January 1, 2021 (transition from CE)
Recognized in: United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland*)
Typical product categories: Machinery, electronics, medical devices, and other regulated sectors
4. FCC Certification (United States)
FCC certification is mandatory for radio and communication equipment to ensure electromagnetic compatibility and avoid interference with other systems. Products lacking FCC approval may not enter the U.S. market.
Recognized in: United States
Typical product categories: Mobile phones, wireless devices, routers, switches, modems, and telecom equipment
5. UL Certification (United States / Canada)
UL is a widely recognized safety certification in North America. Although voluntary, it is often required by buyers and distributors. UL evaluations cover fire, electric shock, and radiation safety.
Recognized in: United States, Canada
Typical product categories: Consumer electronics, industrial equipment, building materials, lighting products
6. SAA Certification (Australia / New Zealand)
SAA ensures electrical products comply with local safety standards. CB reports can be used to streamline approval processes.
Recognized in: Australia, New Zealand
Typical product categories: Household appliances, lighting, electrical tools, and other electrical devices
7. PSE Certification (Japan)
PSE is mandatory for electrical appliances sold in Japan. Products are classified into “Specified Electrical Appliances” (requiring third-party testing with diamond-shaped PSE mark) and “Non-Specified Electrical Appliances” (circular PSE mark with self-declaration).
Recognized in: Japan
Typical product categories: Cables, appliances, lighting equipment, power adapters
8. KC Certification (South Korea)
KC is a unified mandatory certification integrating 13 prior systems. Products must pass safety and EMC testing, and some categories require factory audits.
Recognized in: South Korea
Typical product categories: Electronics, children’s products, industrial machinery, household appliances
9. SASO Certification (Saudi Arabia)
SASO ensures products comply with safety, labeling, and quality requirements. Saudi Arabia now utilizes the Saber online conformity system for certification and customs clearance.
Recognized in: Saudi Arabia
Typical product categories: Electronics, building materials, chemicals, textiles, food, and more
10. EAC Certification (Eurasian Economic Union)
EAC is the mandatory conformity system of the Eurasian Economic Union, replacing former national GOST certifications and removing intra-regional trade barriers.
Recognized in: Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan
Typical product categories: Machinery, electronics, medical devices, children’s products
11. CCC Certification (China)
CCC is China’s mandatory certification for products affecting public safety, environmental protection, and consumer health. Products must be tested by designated laboratories and labeled before being sold or imported in China.
Recognized in: China
Typical product categories: Household appliances, medical devices, and products across 22 categories and 149 sub-categories
12. ISO Certification (Global)
ISO standards apply to quality management and organizational systems rather than individual products. ISO certification enhances efficiency, compliance, and continuous improvement, and is globally recognized across all industries.
Recognized in: Worldwide
Scope: Quality, environmental, and operational management systems
Conclusion
Understanding market-specific conformity requirements is essential for exporters, manufacturers, and buyers. Certifications not only ensure safety and regulatory compliance but also streamline customs clearance and reduce operational risk.
