The Philippine ICC (Import Commodity Clearance) certification is a mandatory certification system implemented by the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). It applies to imported goods and ensures that imported products comply with Philippine National Standards (PNS) or internationally recognized standards, safeguarding consumer health, safety, and the environment.
01
Scope of Products Requiring ICC Certification
According to the latest regulations, the following categories must obtain ICC certification before importation into the Philippines:
Home appliances: fans, microwaves, rice cookers, washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners, etc.
Audio-visual products: TVs, CD/DVD players, etc.
Lighting equipment: fluorescent lights, LED lights, lamp holders, starters, etc.
Electrical wires, cables, and accessories: circuit breakers, plugs, sockets, PVC tapes, switches, etc.
Construction materials: cement, steel bars, steel pipes, PVC pipes, etc.
Chemicals and safety equipment: fire extinguishers, brake fluid, safety helmets, etc.
Automotive-related products: seat belts, child seats, helmets, automotive safety glass, lead-acid batteries, etc.
Other consumer products: matches, lighters, single chairs/stools, LPG cylinders for vehicles, etc.
The full mandatory product list can be referenced on the BPS official website or via professional consulting agencies.
Important Note: ICC certification is batch-specific. Even if a previous batch has obtained certification, a new batch of the same product requires a separate ICC application. This is often overlooked, so make sure to complete ICC certification before products enter the Philippine market to allow sufficient lead time.
02
ICC Certification Process & Required Documents
Step-by-Step Process:
Company registration: Register a company with SEC or DTI in the Philippines.
Import-export license application: Register with the Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC) to obtain the import-exporter registration certificate.
Submit ICC application: Apply through the National Single Window (NPW) system online, submitting all required documents to BPS or the nearest DTI regional office.
Document review: BPS reviews submitted documents, including product specifications, manufacturing process, and quality control system.
Sample testing: If required, samples must be sent to BPS-accredited laboratories for testing.
Certification decision: Upon passing the tests, BPS issues the ICC certificate, allowing the product to carry the ICC mark.
Required documents for ICC application include:
Completed application form
Packing list
Commercial invoice
Bill of lading/airway bill
Product batch numbers and serial number summary
DTI business name registration certificate (sole proprietorship) or SEC certificate (company)
Special authorization letter (if applicable)
Board resolution or notarized authorization for representatives (if applicable)
BIR import-export clearance certificate
Current utility bills for office/warehouse
ISO 9001 certificate for factory (if available)
Valid test reports (if available)
03
Importance of ICC Certification
Legal compliance: Only products with ICC certification can be legally sold in the Philippines.
For manufacturers: ICC certification enhances product competitiveness, drives sales, and increases revenue.
For traders: ICC certification improves reputation, builds buyer trust, and attracts quality-focused customers, ultimately boosting sales.
E-commerce compliance: According to new Philippine e-commerce regulations, all products sold online must display ICC or PS certification marks. Non-certified products may be removed from platforms.
For importers: Follow the ICC application process as outlined.
For exporters: Provide product test reports to clients or e-commerce sellers to facilitate ICC application.
Required supporting documents for any ICC application include: DTI business registration certificate, SEC certificate, BIR 2303, import license, and business permits. Professional assistance is available for these filings if needed.
If you need further guidance on ICC certification procedures or professional support for Philippine market entry, contact us. We provide the most comprehensive solutions to help your products access the Philippine market compliantly and efficiently.
services1 