Technical Regulation for Footwear Products
On November 27, 2020, the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO) published the Technical Regulation (TR) for Footwear and Accessories in the Official Gazette. Prior to this publication, the requirements for footwear and related accessories were provided only in a summarized format, pending the release of the finalized regulation. The newly published TR also redefines and clarifies specific requirements for children’s shoes.
The regulation applies to a wide range of footwear, including men’s, women’s, and children’s shoes, as well as leisure and informal slippers. This includes footwear made from leather, textiles, plastics, or any combination of these materials. Professional footwear is also covered under this regulation but must additionally comply with the requirements laid out in the Technical Regulation for Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing.
Certain products are exempt from this regulation:
- Medical shoes, which must comply with the requirements of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA).
- Shoes classified as children’s toys, which are regulated separately.
The conformity assessment process for footwear products involves a type approval procedure. In this process, a Certified Conformity Body (CCC) evaluates the technical design of the product to ensure it meets the applicable requirements and standards under the regulation. Upon successful evaluation, the product may be granted a Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC). To begin this process, suppliers are required to contact a CCC through the SABER electronic platform.
| Technical File | Type 1a | Type 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Application Form | ✓ | ✓ |
| Supplier Declaration of Conformity | ✓ | ✓ |
Valid Test Report from accredited lab that includes:
Photos of marking and labelling which include:
|
✓ | ✓ |
| Product and Package Photos including all labeling and markings | ✓ | ✓ |
| Factory Audit Report | ✓ |
