SASO CERTIFICATION

As one of the largest automotive markets in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia implements a strict SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization) certification system for tire imports. This certification aims to ensure that imported tires comply with Saudi safety, environmental, and performance standards, with product registration and label management being core components.

Definition of SASO

SASO is abbreviation of the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization, responsible for developing Saudi Arabia’s technical standards and regulations.

This certification verifies that imported tires meet Saudi standards for safety, environmental protection, and performance. Product registration and label management are central to the process.

Background & Tire Import Requirements

The Saudi government regulates tire imports through SASO certification primarily for the following purposes:

Safety Assurance: Tires must pass testing (e.g., according to GCC standards) in SASO-recognized laboratories to ensure performance aspects like wear resistance and heat endurance meet local climatic conditions.

Environmental Compliance: Limits the content of hazardous substances (e.g., polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) in accordance with Saudi environmental regulations.

Market Transparency: Tracks product origin through the registration and labeling system to prevent counterfeit and substandard products.

Importers must complete SASO certification before goods arrive at the port; otherwise, they may face customs clearance delays or return risks.

Starting from May 2022, non-road tires also require SASO certification. The following are the HS codes for tires requiring SASO certification:

HS Code: 401170000000（ Rubber; new pneumatic tyres, of a kind used on agricultural or forestry vehicles and machines）

HS Code: 401180000000（Rubber; new pneumatic tyres, of a kind used on construction, mining or industrial handling vehicles and machines）

HS Code: 401190000000（Rubber; new pneumatic tyres, of a kind used on light commercial vehicles）

Key Steps in the Registration Process

Application Submission: Submit company qualifications and product technical documents (including specifications, material composition, test reports, etc.) to SASO or an authorized body (e.g., via the SABER platform).

·Tire specification description: including load index, speed rating, tire tread pattern, etc.

·Real tire photos

·Tire report

·Information of Saudi importer

Testing & Evaluation: Tires must undergo testing in SASO-recognized laboratories, focusing on:

·Durability testing (e.g., per ECE R30 or GSO 2530 standards

·Wet grip performance

·Rolling noise level

Certificate Issuance: Upon passing the audit, a COC (Certificate of Conformity) is issued, typically valid for 1 year and requiring periodic renewal.

Requirements for Label Standard Management of SASO

Saudi regulations for tire labels are extremely strict, primarily including:

Mandatory Information:

·Production date (week/year format, e.g., “2523” indicates the 25th week of 2023)

·Size, load index, speed rating (e.g., “245/45R17 95W”)

·GCC mark or SASO certification number

Language & Format: Labels must be in Arabic or bilingual (Arabic + English), with clear and legible font.

Prohibited Actions: Original factory labels must not be altered or covered; otherwise, it is considered a violation.

Certification Timeline

The SASO certification process typically takes about two weeks and is relatively fast.

Future Trends & Summary

With the advancement of Saudi Arabia’s “Vision 2030,” SASO may further strengthen tire energy efficiency labeling (e.g., rolling resistance grading) and digital management (e.g., QR code traceability). Exporting enterprises need to continuously monitor regulatory updates and establish long-term compliance mechanisms to maintain their market share in the Middle East.