1. Agence Congolaise de Normalisation et de la Qualité (ACONOQ)

This is the national standards organization responsible for developing and promoting standards. It supports quality assurance, conformity assessment, and standardization activities across multiple sectors.

2. Ministère du Commerce et des Approvisionnements

This ministry enforces consumer protection laws, product labeling requirements, and trade-related technical regulations. It plays a role in import inspections and approval of certain regulated products.

3. Ministère de la Santé

The Ministry of Health oversees pharmaceuticals, medical devices, cosmetics, and food products. It ensures these goods meet safety and health regulations before market entry.

4. Agence de Régulation des Postes et des Communications Électroniques (ARPCE)

ARPCE manages the type approval process for telecommunications and radio frequency equipment to ensure compliance with technical standards.

5. Ministry of Environment

Oversees environmental compliance for products with potential ecological impacts, including chemicals, waste, and emissions. It enforces environmental licensing and controls related to hazardous substances.

Product Certification and Compliance Requirements

• Standards and Technical Regulations: Products must comply with Congolese standards or internationally harmonized norms, depending on the product type. This may include electrical, food, construction, or telecom equipment.

• Conformity Assessment: Some products require inspection, testing, or certification before they can be imported or sold. These assessments are coordinated by ACONOQ or designated authorities.

• Type Approval for Telecom Equipment: Any equipment using radio frequency or telecommunications networks must be type approved by ARPCE. This includes mobile phones, routers, and other wireless devices.

• Product Registration: Pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetic products must be registered with the Ministry of Health. The process involves reviewing product safety, labeling, and usage instructions.

• Labeling Requirements: All products must include labels in French with clear information such as the product name, country of origin, manufacturer or importer details, net quantity, usage instructions, and expiry date if applicable.

• Import Controls and Surveillance: Imports are subject to document verification and physical inspection at customs. Market surveillance is carried out to detect non-compliant or unsafe products and take corrective actions.