Exporting and Importing Food Products to Saudi Arabia
Mandatory use of the FASEH Platform for Food Certificates of Conformity (CoC)
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has announced that the issuance of Certificates of Conformity (CoC) for Food Products through the FASEH electronic platform will become mandatory effective 30 August 2026.
As per the latest SFDA circular, all CoCs issued for food consignments exported to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must be processed through the FASEH platform. Certificates of Conformity issued outside the FASEH platform on or after 30 August 2026 will not be accepted by SFDA.
Importers will be required to submit a CoC Request through the FASEH platform in order to facilitate the issuance and processing of the CoC. Exporters and importers are encouraged to coordinate in advance to ensure that all necessary approvals are obtained through FASEH prior to shipment.
The new requirement applies to food shipment conformity certification and represents another step in Saudi Arabia's broader digital transformation of regulatory processes.
Why This Matters for Importers
Importers shipping food products to Saudi Arabia should review their current certification processes and ensure they are prepared for the upcoming transition.
Failure to use the FASEH platform after the effective date may result in certification documents not being accepted, potentially affecting customs clearance procedures. The SFDA has therefore encouraged conformity assessment bodies to coordinate with importers to ensure applications are submitted through the platform from the implementation date.
Preparing for the Transition
With the deadline approaching, businesses may benefit from reviewing:
- Current food shipment certification workflows
- Internal responsibilities for submitting applications
- Required documentation and supporting information
- Coordination between exporters, importers and conformity assessment partners
Taking proactive steps now can help minimise disruptions and ensure continued compliance with SFDA requirements.
For further information and support, please contact an authorised Inspection Agent for Saudi Arabia.
Bureau Veritas, 5th Floor, 66 Prescot Street, London E1 8HG, tel: 020 7661 0700, fax: 020 7661 0741, website: www.bureauveritas.co.uk.
Intertek International Ltd, Academy Place, 1–9 Brook Street, Brentwood CM14 5NQ, tel: 01277 223400, fax: 01277 220127, email: info.brentwood.fts@intertek.com.
SGS UK Ltd, SGS House, 217–221 London Road, Camberley, Surrey GU15 3EY, tel: 01276 697877, fax: 01276 697833.
TUV Rheinland UK Ltd, Vienna House, International Square, Birmingham International Park, Bickenhill Lane, Solihull, West Midlands B37 7GN, tel: 0121 767 1399, fax: 0121 767 1330, website: www.tuv.com.
