In this issue we look at how to get a Russian Certificate of Conformity.
Q. I am the manufacturer of UV resistant sunglasses for children and have found a customer in Russia. Despite the sunglasses conforming to British and America safety standards, I have been advised that I need a certificate of conformity from the Russian authorities. Where can I obtain one of these certificates?
A. A Certificate of Conformity is required for some goods being exported to Russia. Two bodies in the UK are able to undertake these inspections and issue the certificates: SGS House, 217-221 London Road, Camberley, Surrey GU15 3EY (Telephone: 01276 697832) or BIVAC Bureau Veritas, 2nd floor, Tower Bridge Court, 224-226 Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 2TX (Telephone: 020 7550 8900). Both of these bodies are accredited by the Russian State Standardisation, Measurement and Certification Committee (GOSSTANDART).
Once the certificate has been issued, it usually travels with the goods and is presented to customs at the point of entry into Russia. It should be available upon demand by the authorities as evidence of inspection. Goods can be impounded or confiscated after two months if you cannot produce the certificate upon request.
If you need help with a trade procedures query, call the Helpdesk on
020 7215 8150 or email info@sitpro.org.uk 
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Return to SITPRO News: Issue 63, Winter 2007/2008