Somalia currently has a fragmented and developing product compliance framework, largely influenced by international aid organizations, UN agencies, and regional trade partners. Due to ongoing challenges with governance and infrastructure, product compliance is primarily enforced at the port level through import controls and acceptance of recognized foreign certifications. There are ongoing efforts to strengthen national regulatory systems with support from international partners.

Key Authorities:

• Ministry of Commerce and Industry – Oversees trade regulations and is responsible for developing national standards in coordination with international bodies.

• Ministry of Health – Regulates pharmaceuticals, medical devices, cosmetics, and food products, primarily through import controls and public health programs.

• National Communications Authority (NCA) – Regulates telecom and RF equipment, manages type approvals, and oversees spectrum management.

• Somali Customs Authority – Enforces import controls and verifies compliance documentation at ports and border crossings.

Key Compliance Elements:

• Accepted Standards:

  • Somalia generally accepts products that comply with:

    • ISO and IEC standards

    • Codex Alimentarius for food safety

    • Recognized foreign certifications (e.g., CE, FCC, FDA, WHO prequalified products for medical supplies)

  • No national conformity mark or widespread local certification body currently exists.

• Product Registration (Ministry of Health):

  • Required for:

    • Medicines and vaccines

    • Medical devices

    • Food supplements and cosmetics

  • Process primarily involves:

    • Submission of import documentation and certificates from recognized authorities (e.g., WHO, EMA, FDA)

    • Certificate of Free Sale or GMP certification

    • Labels in English or Arabic preferred

    • Import permits for controlled goods

• Telecom Type Approval (NCA):

  • All RF and telecom devices must receive type approval before being imported or sold.

  • Requires:

    • CE or FCC certification as supporting documents

    • Technical specifications and frequency compatibility

    • Importers must apply directly to NCA or through a local representative

  • Devices must comply with Somalia’s spectrum and technical standards.

• Labeling Requirements:

  • Labels should be in English or Arabic, and include:

    • Product name

    • Manufacturer/importer details

    • Country of origin

    • Usage instructions and safety warnings

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

    • Certification details (if applicable)

• Import Oversight:

  • Importers must provide:

    • Invoice and packing list

    • Certificate of origin

    • Product registration certificates (if applicable)

    • Certificates of conformity or recognized foreign approvals

    • Telecom type approval (if applicable)

    • Customs documentation for entry at ports like Mogadishu Port or Berbera Port

• Market Surveillance:

Limited but increasing, with inspections led by Ministry of Health, NCA, and Customs. International organizations such as WHO and UNICEF often support health product quality monitoring. Non-compliant goods may be seized or denied entry.