Understanding Physical and Remote Inspections in Global Trade Compliance and Cotecna’s Verification of Conformity Services.
For exporters and manufacturers supplying products to Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Quality Mark (SQM) is a key mark that demonstrates compliance with SASO standards. However, a common question arises: Can one SQM be used across multiple factories?
The answer is no and understanding why is critical to maintaining compliance and avoiding costly disruptions.
Why SQM Is Linked to a Specific Factory
The SQM is not just a product certification; it is a combined assessment of both the product and the manufacturing facility where it is produced.
Each SQM is issued based on:
- The specific product
- The exact factory where it is manufactured
- The factory’s quality management systems and processes
This means that even if two factories produce the same product, they cannot share the same SQM certification. Each site must be evaluated independently.
The Reason Behind This Requirement
SASO’s approach is built around consistency, traceability, and quality assurance.
Here’s why a single SQM cannot be used across multiple factories:
- Quality control varies by facility
Different factories may use different equipment, processes, or staff, which can affect product quality. - Factory conditions must be verified
SQM certification includes audits and inspections of the manufacturing site, ensuring it meets required standards. - Risk management and accountability
Linking certification to a specific factory ensures that any compliance issue can be traced back accurately. - Ongoing compliance monitoring
Each certified factory is subject to its own surveillance and renewal process, which cannot be generalized.
What This Means for Exporters
If you:
- Manufacture the same product in multiple locations, or
- Outsource production to different factories
You will need to:
- Apply for separate SQM certifications for each factory
- Ensure each site undergoes its own audit, inspection, and testing (if required)
Failure to do so may result in:
- Delays in certification or shipment approvals
- Rejection of consignments
- Increased scrutiny under the VOC (Verification of Conformity) programme
How Cotecna Can Support You
Navigating SQM requirements across multiple factories can be complex but Cotecna can help simplify the process.
Cotecna supports manufacturers by:
- Advising on SQM application and factory-specific requirements
- Coordinating audits, and testing for each site
- Ensuring all documentation aligns with SASO expectations
- Helping maintain compliance across multiple production facilities
Key Takeaway
An SQM certificate is factory-specific and product-specific. It cannot be shared across multiple manufacturing sites, even for identical products. Ensuring each factory is correctly certified is essential for maintaining access to the Saudi market.
If you operate across multiple factories or are unsure how SQM applies to your production setup, contact our Cotecna Middle East team for guidance.
Or if you have other burning questions download our free SQM Frequently asked questions Guide.
About Cotecna
For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.