Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for Qatar

Applus+ is authorized by Qatar's Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) to implement the Verification of Conformity (VOC) Program for imported food products under authorization number FC/24/00014, dated 03/11/2024. We are authorized to issue Certificates of Conformity for regulated food products before they are exported to Qatar, ensuring compliance with applicable standards and specifications.

Thorough safety inspections, testing, and conformity assessments are crucial for smooth market access into Qatar. The primary focus is to ensure that food products meet safety and quality standards, providing assurance to consumers that the products are safe for consumption.

Who Requires a CoC for Qatar?

Exporters of regulated food products intended for export into Qatar are required to meet the stipulations of pre-inspection, testing, and obtaining a Certificate of Conformity (CoC). This is essential to avoid delays in clearing goods, penalties, or even the return of your shipment.

What Products Are Regulated Under the CoC Program for Qatar?

Regulated products under this scheme include:

• Meat and Meat Products
• Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) Products
• Prepackaged Foods
• Spices
• Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
• Seafood
• Processed Foods
• Dairy Products
• Vegetable Oils
• Honey

Exempted products:

• Cosmetics
• Live Animals Before Slaughter
• Medical Products and Drugs
• Tobacco

How Do I Get a CoC for Qatar?

Applus+, through its Conformity Assessment Program, grants Certificates of Conformity for food products that meet the requirements set by Qatar's Ministry of Public Health (MOPH).

To obtain a CoC for Qatar, the process involves:

Submitting the Necessary Documentation

Apply for a CoC by submitting the required documents to Applus+, including:

• Final / Proforma Invoice
• Conformity Documents: Test reports, quality certificates, analysis reports, etc., provided by exporters as per technical requirements.
• Ingredient List with Concentrations
• Certificate of Analysis (Batch-wise)
• Product Labels/Artworks
• Hygiene Certificate

Assessment of Conformity

Applus+ will carry out an assessment to ensure the food products conform to the specifications applied by Qatar standards (GSO). The assessment is based on:

• Documentary Review
• Control Testing (if necessary)
• Physical Inspection
• Conclusion of the Assessment

Compliance with Conformity Requirements

Ensure that products comply with the applicable standards and technical regulations, including:

• Applicable Standards: Qatar standards (GSO).
• Certification Standards: ISO 22000, HACCP, GMP, GVP, GAP certificates, or equivalent nationally and internationally recognized standards and certifications, as applicable.
• Health Documents
• Test Reports: From ISO 17025 accredited laboratories.
• HALAL Slaughtering Certificate and/or HALAL Certificate (from approved bodies), if applicable.

Physical Inspection

We conduct inspections where conformity is assessed through observation, measurement, examination, or the use of measurement parameters to the fullest extent possible.

Why Choose Applus+ to Obtain a CoC for Qatar?

Applus+ is one of the world's leading companies in inspection, testing, and certification, with more than 35 years of experience in providing services related to the inspection of products and equipment at origin.

By choosing Applus+, you benefit from:

• Expertise in Qatari Regulations: Our team is highly knowledgeable about the latest Qatari standards and regulations, ensuring that your food products meet all the necessary requirements for compliance with the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH).
• Comprehensive Services: We offer a complete solution for obtaining the Certificate of Conformity (CoC), from reviewing technical documentation to conducting on-site inspections and issuing final certification, ensuring smooth customs clearance in Qatar.
• Global Presence: With a network of offices and laboratories worldwide, Applus+ is equipped to assist exporters from any country, providing seamless support throughout the certification process.

With this CoC Qatar certification, Applus+ is set to enhance its service offerings, ensuring compliance and smooth operations for our clients exporting food products to Qatar.

Contact william.liu@applus.com for further information.