Tanzania Certificate of Conformity
What is Tanzania Certificate of Conformity ?
The Tanzania Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is a mandatory document required for customs clearance of most goods imported into the country, ensuring they comply with local quality and safety standards. Issued under the Pre-Shipment Verification of Conformity (PVoC) program managed by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS), this certificate confirms that products have undergone necessary inspection, laboratory testing, and documentary review in their country of origin before being shipped. Exporters must engage a TBS-appointed inspection agent, such as SGS, Intertek, or Bureau Veritas, to manage the certification process, which offers different pathways based on shipment frequency. Failure to present a valid CoC upon arrival can result in significant penalties, including the re-exportation or destruction of the goods at the exporter’s expense.
Benefits of getting Tanzania Certificate of Conformity
Getting a Tanzania Certificate of Conformity offers several benefits for businesses. Here are some potential advantages:
Faster Customs Clearance
A CoC acts as a "passport" for goods, allowing them to clear customs in Tanzania quickly and avoid lengthy inspections upon arrival.
Prevents Financial Loss
It helps exporters and importers avoid costly penalties, storage fees, and the expense of having goods re-exported or destroyed for non-compliance.
Guaranteed Market Access
The certificate ensures that your products will not be rejected at the border for failing to meet Tanzanian standards, securing your entry into the market.
Consumer Safety and Protection
It protects consumers in Tanzania by blocking unsafe, counterfeit, and low-quality goods from entering the country.
Supports Fair Trade
The CoC ensures that imported goods meet the same standards as locally produced items, creating a fair competitive environment for local industries.
Builds Trust and Reputation
Consistently providing certified goods builds a strong reputation for reliability and quality for your brand and business in the Tanzanian market.
Facilitates Market Access
Acts as a key requirement for entering and competing in Kenya’s growing import market.
Supports Regulatory Transparency
Encourages exporters to adopt international best practices through a standardized and recognized verification process.
Improved Communication
Licensees can use ISCC logos and claims on their products and promotional materials, allowing them to effectively communicate their sustainability efforts to consumers.
For information on Tanzania Certificate of Conformity , please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We welcome the opportunity to discuss the process and requirements for becoming an esteemed partner.
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Who can get Tanzania Certificate of Conformity ?
Exporter
Manufacturer
Authorized Agent (e.g., freight forwarder)
Authorized agents
Frequent suppliers to Kenya
Final product manufacturers
Brand owners
Waste/residue generating entities
Document required for Tanzania Certificate of Conformity
- System Manual
- System Procedure
- Policy
- Objectives
- Mission & Vision
- Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
- Checklist
- Forms
- Formats
- Records
The extent of Documented Information differs as per:
- Organization’s size
- Activities performed by the organization
- Processes undertaken by the Organization
- Products and services offered by the organization
- The complexity of processes undertaken
- Competence of persons involved
Role of Shamkris and Process of Tanzania Certificate of Conformity
Shamkris adopts a results-oriented approach to effective system implementation in the organization. A simple and practical method of system implementation helps organizations increase business efficiency and sustainability. Shamkris supports 100% documentation to obtain buyer approval in addition to enhanced performance.
The implementation process is described below:
Time Frame
Task
Process
Step 1
GAP Assessment
- GAP Assessment report as per Tanzania Certificate of Conformity checklist
Step 3
Training
- Training to Top Management
- Training to Employee's
Step 4
Implementation
- Verification of Documentation as per Checklist
- Internal Audit, Management Review Meeting & N-Closer for Internal Audit
Step 5
Audit Public Verification
- Verification by third party approval by Tanzania Certificate of Conformity
- Closer of Non-Conformetives
Year on Year
Yearly Compliance
- Support 3 months
FAQ
Yes. Most regulated products require a Certificate of Conformity before they can be cleared through Tanzanian customs. Without it, goods may be rejected, re-exported, or destroyed.
The CoC is issued by inspection agencies appointed by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS), including SGS, Intertek, and Bureau Veritas.
PVoC stands for Pre-Shipment Verification of Conformity. It is a compliance process that includes product inspection, testing, and document review to ensure products meet Tanzanian standards before shipment.
Most consumer goods, electronics, machinery, food items, and construction materials are subject to PVoC regulations. Some products may be exempt based on category or quantity.
Depending on the product type and readiness of documentation, the process typically takes 5 to 10 working days. Delays may occur if testing or resubmissions are needed.
You will typically need:
- Proforma/commercial invoice
- Test reports (if available)
- Packing list
- Product specifications/manuals
- Previous CoCs (if applicable)
Yes, if they are shipped together and fall under the same shipment, a single CoC can cover multiple products—provided each item complies with TBS requirements.
Goods without a valid CoC may face:
- Delayed clearance
- Additional inspection and testing
- Penalties or fines
- Re-export or destruction at the importer’s expense
Yes. The PVoC program offers three routes:
- Route A – for occasional exporters (no registration needed)
- Route B – for frequent exporters (product registration required)
- Route C – for high-volume, consistent exporters (license required)
Typically, the exporter bears the cost of the inspection and certification. However, the agreement can vary depending on trade terms.