Mozambique Product Conformity Assessment (PAC - Programa de Avaliação da Conformidade) Program – Overview

Mozambique’s Product Conformity Assessment (PAC) Program, administered by INNOQ, IP and supported by market supervision from INAE, requires that designated imported goods undergo conformity verification prior to shipment. Exporters must obtain a Certificate of Conformity through the authorised assessment process. This certificate is mandatory for customs clearance and lawful entry into Mozambique, helping to protect consumers, ensure product quality, and maintain market integrity.

1. Purpose and Scope

Mozambique operates a mandatory Product Conformity Assessment (PAC) program that requires regulated imported goods to be verified for compliance before they can be shipped and cleared through customs. The PAC ensures that products entering the Mozambican market meet applicable technical regulations and mandatory standards.

The program is designed to:

• Protect public health and consumer safety

• Safeguard the environment

• Prevent the entry of substandard or non-compliant goods

• Promote product quality and regulatory compliance

• Support fair competition and efficient customs procedures

Products falling within the regulated scope must undergo conformity assessment before shipment to Mozambique.

2. Government Authority

The PAC Program is administered by the National Institute for Standardization and Quality (INNOQ, IP), which is responsible for standardisation policy, quality infrastructure, and conformity assessment oversight in Mozambique.

INNOQ operates under the Ministry responsible for economic governance and establishes the regulatory framework for product compliance. Market surveillance and enforcement of conformity requirements within Mozambique are conducted by the National Inspectorate of Economic Activities (INAE).

3. Certificate of Conformity (CoC)

Under the PAC Program, regulated products must be covered by a valid Certificate of Conformity (CoC) prior to shipment. The CoC confirms that the goods have been assessed and found compliant with Mozambique’s technical regulations, mandatory standards, or approved regional or international standards. Only products with a valid CoC can be cleared through customs.

4. Products Subject to Verification

Products that fall under the PAC must be listed on the official Mandatory Control List, which is periodically updated by INNOQ. Regulated product categories generally include:

• Electrical and electronic equipment

• Machinery and mechanical appliances

• Construction materials

• Consumer goods

• Textiles and related products

• Chemical products

• Automotive components

• Other goods that may present health, safety, or environmental risks

Exporters must review the current Mandatory Control List to determine whether their products require conformity assessment prior to export.

5. Conformity Assessment Process

Step 1 - Initiating the Assessment

Before shipment, the exporter or their authorised representative contacts an approved conformity assessment provider to begin the process, submitting required documentation such as invoices, packing lists, product specifications, technical documentation, and test reports if available.

Step 2 - Document Evaluation

The conformity assessment body reviews submitted documentation to confirm compliance with Mozambican standards or equivalent recognised standards. This step also determines whether inspection or testing is required and identifies the appropriate certification route.

Step 3 - Pre-Shipment Inspection

Depending on the certification route, a physical inspection may be conducted prior to export. This inspection verifies:

• Product identification and quantities

• Labelling and marking requirements

• Packaging

• Consistency between the goods and submitted documentation

• Conformity with relevant technical requirements

Step 4 - Testing (If Required)

If documentation alone does not demonstrate compliance, product samples may be taken for laboratory testing to confirm conformity with applicable standards.

Step 5 - Issuance of Certificate

After successful completion of document review, inspection, and any necessary testing, the authorised conformity assessment body issues a Certificate of Conformity. This certificate must accompany the shipment and be presented to Mozambican customs at the time of import. Non-conforming shipments cannot be cleared.

6. Roles and Responsibilities

Exporters (or their authorised representatives) are responsible for:

• Determining if their products are subject to Mozambique’s PAC

• Initiating the conformity assessment process prior to shipment

• Providing complete and accurate documentation

• Facilitating inspection and testing as required

• Obtaining a valid Certificate of Conformity for each shipment

Importers are responsible for:

• Ensuring that regulated goods are accompanied by a valid CoC

• Presenting the certificate to customs authorities during clearance

• Confirming compliance before distributing products within Mozambique

Coordination between exporters and importers is essential to avoid delays or compliance issues.

7. Objectives of the PAC Program

The Mozambique PAC is designed to:

• Protect Consumers: Ensure that imported goods meet safety and quality requirements

• Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Verify conformity with Mozambican standards or recognised equivalents

• Support Fair Trade: Prevent non-compliant imports from undermining compliant goods

• Facilitate Customs Clearance: Enable compliant shipments to be processed efficiently

How SANTIQ Can Assist

Navigating Mozambique’s Product Conformity Assessment (PAC) requirements can be complex, with documentation, inspections, and testing needed for a valid Certificate of Conformity (CoC). SANTIQ helps exporters and manufacturers manage the entire process through our trusted network of accredited testing laboratories and certified conformity assessment partners.

We assist clients in identifying whether their products fall under Mozambique’s mandatory control list, preparing technical documentation, coordinating pre-shipment inspections, and ensuring testing is completed according to applicable standards. By leveraging our network, SANTIQ helps streamline certification, minimize shipment delays, and secure a valid CoC for smooth customs clearance and compliant entry into the Mozambican market.