Exporting to Gabon: Guide to VOC Certification Process

As China-African trade relations continue to develop steadily, Gabon’s import demand for Chinese products keeps growing, making export compliance management increasingly critical. According to the latest confirmation from the Gabonese Standards Agency, the VOC conformity certification regime will remain strictly enforced throughout 2026, with the exemption product list staying stable. All export shipments not explicitly exempted must obtain a VOC certificate before shipment.

1. What is Gabon VOC?
The Gabon VOC Certificate of Conformity is a mandatory customs clearance document required under the Gabonese Conformity Assessment Program (PROGEC).
Key Points:
• Must be obtained before the goods are shipped
• Cannot be issued retroactively after arrival at the port
• No certificate = No customs clearance

2. Which Products Require VOC Certification?
With the exception of the exemption list, virtually all goods exported to Gabon require a VOC certificate. Common product categories include:
• Electronic and electrical appliances (home appliances, mobile phones, etc.)
• Machinery and equipment
• Building materials and sanitary ware (tiles, steel, etc.)
• Chemical products (paints, coatings, etc.)
• Medical devices
• Toys and children’s products
• Textiles and footwear
• Food contact materials

3. Certification Process

1) Prepare Documentation
• Proforma invoice and packing list
• Product test reports (must be issued by an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory)
• Application form (RFC)
• Product photos and nameplate information

2) Submit for Review
Submit the documents to the certification body for review against Gabonese national standards or equivalent international standards (ISO, IEC, etc.).

3) Arrange Inspection
After approval, schedule a pre-shipment inspection 3–5 working days in advance to verify product quantity, packaging, and labeling compliance.

4) Submit Final Documents
After passing the inspection, provide the final commercial invoice and packing list.

5) Certificate Issuance
The certification body issues the VOC certificate, which should accompany the customs clearance documents for smooth container release.

As an official certification body authorized by the Gabonese Standards Agency (AGANOR) to implement the Conformity Assessment Program (PROGEC), Cotecna has long been dedicated to full-process services for goods exported to Gabon, including document review, pre-shipment inspection, and VOC certificate issuance. Thanks to our continuous collaboration with Gabonese authorities and deep professional expertise, we have recently successfully renewed our project operation authorization. We will continue to provide stable and reliable certification support for export enterprises with rigorous standards and efficient processes.

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