Gabon Verification of Conformity (PROGEC) – Export with Confidence
The Programme Gabonais d’Évaluation de la Conformité (PROGEC) is Gabon’s official Verification of Conformity (VoC) scheme designed to ensure all regulated goods entering the country meet safety, quality, and environmental standards.
Overseen by the Gabonese Standardization Agency (AGANOR), the program requires importers and exporters to demonstrate that their products comply with applicable Gabonese or international standards before shipment.
🧾 Regulatory Framework
The PROGEC program was introduced under the supervision of the Ministry of Industry, Mining and Tourism, with formal implementation effective since May 21, 2016 (date of Bill of Lading).
Its legal basis was strengthened by Order No. 1407‑21, ensuring imports align with Gabon’s national quality standards.
AGANOR acts as the regulatory authority, delegating inspection and verification tasks to authorized certification entities that operate in countries of export.
These entities are responsible for verifying documentation, testing goods, and issuing the Certificate of Conformity (CoC) required for customs clearance.
⚙️ Scope and Products Covered
All regulated products must be accompanied by a valid CoC upon importation to Gabon.
Goods subject to PROGEC include:
- 🏗️ Construction materials – civil engineering, chemical, and building materials
- ⚡ Machinery, electrical, and electronic products
- 🧴 Cosmetics, body care, and health products
- 🏥 Medical and surgical instruments and appliances
- 🎲 Toys and products for children
Certain goods are exempt, such as samples, gifts, humanitarian aid, and goods for diplomatic or government use.
The minimum FOB value subject to PROGEC is €3,000.
📜 Objectives of the PROGEC Programme
The Gabon PROGEC initiative was established to:
- 🛡️ Protect consumers from sub‑standard or hazardous products
- 🏭 Safeguard domestic industries from unfair competition
- 🌿 Promote environmental protection
- ⚖️ Facilitate trade by recognizing existing conformity documentation
- 🚢 Enable swift customs clearance via verified Certificates of Conformity
🔍 Conformity Assessment Process
Exporters must obtain a Certificate of Conformity prior to shipping.
The process typically follows these key steps:
Step 1: Application for Certificate
Exporters submit a Request for Certificate (RFC) with product details, invoices, and existing test reports or quality certificates.
The request is lodged with an authorized inspection body operating in the exporter’s country.
Step 2: Routes to Compliance
To make verification more efficient, PROGEC offers three compliance routes:
- Route A: Standard verification for any consignment
- Route B (Registration): For exporters with approved product registrations
- Route C (Licensing): For manufacturers holding pre‑approved quality licenses
Registered or licensed exporters benefit from reduced inspection requirements and faster certificate issuance.
Step 3: Documentary Review and Testing
All submitted documentation is reviewed. Testing may be required in accredited laboratories (ISO 17025) if test reports or certificates are missing or insufficient.
Step 4: Physical Inspection
Inspectors verify that goods match documentation, meet labeling and safety requirements, and—if necessary—take samples for analysis. Loading and sealing are witnessed when required.
Step 5: Certification
When compliance is proven, the authorized body issues a Certificate of Conformity (CoC).
If discrepancies arise, a Non‑Conformity Report (NCR) is released, and goods should not be shipped until compliance is achieved.
💶 Fees and Routes Overview
Fees are calculated as a percentage of the consignment’s FOB value, varying by route:
- Route A: 0.53% (min €300 – max €7,000)
- Route B: 0.45% (min €300 – max €7,000)
- Route C: 0.27% (min €220 – max €7,000)
Additional costs may apply for testing, audits, re‑inspection, or special supervision such as container sealing or sampling of bulk shipments.
Annual registration fees also apply for exporters with multiple product lines.
📢 Recent Regulatory Updates
Over the years, several official updates have been issued by AGANOR concerning postponements and implementation dates:
- Dec 2020: Implementation of new provisions delayed until June 30, 2021
- Jun 2021: Postponed again by one month, effective July 31, 2021
- Aug 2021: Further revision of the 2015 provisions postponed until a future date
Until further notice, the 2016 product list and €3,000 minimum threshold remain applicable.
Exporters should always confirm the latest requirements through official channels before shipment.
✅ Benefits of Compliance
Adhering to PROGEC brings concrete advantages to exporters and importers:
- 🌍 Smooth customs clearance upon arrival in Gabon
- 📦 Reduced risk of cargo delays or rejections
- 🔒 Assurance that products meet required safety and quality standards
- 🤝 Enhanced business reputation and customer trust
- 📈 Easier access to Gabon’s growing market
🧭 How ComplyMarket Can Help
ComplyMarket supports businesses in navigating the PROGEC Verification of Conformity process.
Our team assists with:
- 📋 Document preparation and RFC submission
- 🔍 Coordination of inspections and testing
- 📅 Tracking certification progress and renewals
- 💼 Providing expert guidance on regulatory updates
Whether you are a first‑time exporter or a frequent trader with Gabon, ComplyMarket ensures your goods meet every requirement—efficiently and confidently.