🧾 Regulatory Framework

• Authority: Ministry of Trade, Industry, Handicrafts, and Tourism
• Regulation Basis: Order No. 0131/MCIAT and notice to importers (January 2023)
• Launch Date: March 15, 2023
• Effective Requirement: CoC mandatory from June 1, 2023
• Purpose: Verification of product conformity prior to shipment

The conformity assessment covers documentary review, physical inspection, laboratory testing, and facilitation routes designed to adjust the process to the trader’s level of compliance and risk profile.

📦 Products Covered

The PVCM program applies to a wide variety of products, including:

• 🥫 Food and food‑contact products
• 🧱 Building materials and chemical products
• 👗 Textiles, footwear, and leather goods
• ⚙️ Machinery, tools, and industrial equipment
• 🔌 Electrical and electronic products
• 🚗 Vehicles and auto spare parts
• 🩺 Medical devices and pharmaceuticals
• 💄 Cosmetics and personal care products
• 🧸 Toys and children’s products
• 🪑 Furniture and household items

Certain categories—like fresh produce, small‑value shipments below €1,500, and personal belongings—are exempt from the program.

⚙️ How the Process Works

Step 1 – 📋 Application

Exporters must submit a Request for Certificate (RFC) to the authorized inspection entity before shipment.

This includes product details, HS codes, invoices, conformity documentation (e.g., test reports, quality certificates), and manufacturer information.

Step 2 – 🧭 Route to Compliance

To accommodate different traders and product types, there are four compliance routes:

• Route A – Standard verification for any good or trader
• Route B – Registration route for exporters with compliant history
• Route C – Licensing route for manufacturers with certified systems
• Route D – Simplified route for certain essential food imports (e.g., wheat, sugar)

Step 3 – 🧪 Documentary Review and Testing

Supporting documents are checked against applicable Mauritanian or international standards (ISO, IEC, Codex).

If necessary, samples are tested in accredited laboratories (ISO 17025).

Step 4 – 🔍 Physical Inspection

Products are visually checked to confirm compliance with labelling and packaging requirements, ensuring that goods match documentation.

Sampling or container sealing may be required.

Step 5 – 📄 Certificate of Conformity

Upon satisfactory verification, the PVCM Certificate of Conformity is issued for customs clearance.

If non‑compliance is identified, a Non‑Conformity Report (NCR) is generated.

Shipments should not be dispatched without the CoC.

🛡️ Labelling and Technical Requirements

Products must comply with Mauritanian and international standards or manufacturer specifications when no specific national standard applies.

Key requirements include:

• Labeling in Arabic or French
• Food labels showing production date, allergen presence, animal species (for meats), and remaining shelf life ≥ 50%
• GMO products requiring prior authorization from relevant ministries

These measures ensure transparency, safety, and consumer protection.

💰 Fees and Responsibilities

The cost of verification is paid by the exporter and varies by route:

• Route A – 0.78 % of FOB value (min €380)
• Route B – 0.60 % (min €300)
• Route C – 0.50 % (min €285)
• Route D – 0.19 % (min €285)

The fees cover document verification, inspection, and issuance of CoC or NCR.

Testing or re‑inspection costs may apply separately.

🌍 Benefits of the PVCM Program

• 🛡️ Protects citizens from unsafe or counterfeit products
• 🏭 Supports fair competition for local industries
• ⚙️ Simplifies customs clearance through recognized certification
• 🌱 Promotes environmental and consumer safety
• 💼 Enhances trust and reputation for exporters and manufacturers

🔄 Compliance Updates

• March 17, 2023: Mauritania notified WTO of PVCM implementation.
• April 6, 2023: Program temporarily paused.
• June 1, 2023: Launch reaffirmed—PVCM Certificates mandatory for all shipments from this date.

Traders are advised to remain informed on any subsequent regulatory or procedural updates from the Mauritanian authorities.

🤝 How ComplyMarket Can Help

ComplyMarket assists exporters and manufacturers in navigating national conformity programs like the Mauritania PVCM, offering:

• Expert guidance on document preparation and standard requirements
• Support with inspection scheduling and test coordination
• Real‑time tracking of compliance documentation
• Updates on regulatory changes to prevent shipment delays

With ComplyMarket’s expertise, exporters can manage the entire certification process smoothly and ensure uninterrupted trade operations.