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South America

Suriname

A Colorful Experience

Population:
628 thousand
Capital:
Paramaribo
Official Language:
Dutch

Suriname maintains a developing product compliance framework focused on consumer protection, public health, and import quality control. The country aligns many of its regulations with CARICOM regional standards, as well as recognized international standards such as ISO, IEC, and Codex Alimentarius. Import controls and documentation review remain the primary tools for enforcing product compliance.


Key Authorities:

  • Suriname Standards Bureau (SSB) – Responsible for developing national standards, conducting conformity assessments, and promoting quality infrastructure.

  • Ministry of Public Health – Regulates pharmaceuticals, medical devices, cosmetics, and food supplements.

  • Telecommunication Authority Suriname (TAS) – Oversees telecom and RF equipment regulation, including type approval and spectrum management.

  • Suriname Customs – Enforces import documentation and compliance at entry points.


Key Compliance Elements:

  • Standards and Certification (SSB):

    • Suriname adopts and enforces:

      • CARICOM Regional Standards

      • ISO, IEC, and Codex Alimentarius standards

    • Mandatory standards apply to:

      • Electrical appliances

      • Packaged food and beverages

      • Building and construction materials

    • Products may require a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) or recognized foreign certification (e.g., CE, FCC).

  • Product Registration (Ministry of Health):

    • Required for:

      • Medicines and vaccines

      • Medical devices and diagnostics

      • Cosmetics and food supplements

    • Registration involves:

      • Submission of product dossiers with safety and efficacy data

      • Certificate of Free Sale or GMP certification from the country of origin

      • Labeling in Dutch or English

      • Import permit for controlled products

  • Telecom Type Approval (TAS):

    • All telecom and RF devices require type approval before import or sale.

    • Requires:

      • CE or FCC certificates as supporting evidence

      • Technical specifications and frequency compatibility data

      • Importer or local representative to handle applications

  • Labeling Requirements:

    • Labels must be in Dutch or English, and include:

      • Product name

      • Manufacturer/importer details

      • Country of origin

      • Usage instructions and safety warnings

      • Expiry or batch number (for health-related products)

      • Certification or approval number (if applicable)

  • Import Oversight:

    • Importers must provide:

      • Invoice and packing list

      • Certificate of origin

      • CoC or recognized foreign certification

      • Product registration certificates (for regulated goods)

      • Telecom type approval (for RF devices)

      • Customs declaration

  • Market Surveillance:

Conducted by the SSB, Ministry of Health, and Customs. Enforcement focuses on product safety, labeling compliance, and prevention of counterfeit goods. Non-compliant goods may be recalled, fined, or barred from entry.

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