EAC & COC Country Playbooks

Summary of EAEU Technical Regulations

The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and TR CU technical regulations aim to ensure product safety, quality, and consumer health protection. These regulations define mandatory standards for different product categories and clearly set out the responsibilities of manufacturers and importers.

All products must bear the EAC conformity mark. Without this marking, products cannot clear customs or be placed on the EAEU market. Full and accurate compliance with these regulations is therefore critical to maintaining uninterrupted supply chains.

Product Classification and Testing Requirements

The first step in obtaining EAC certification is accurate product classification. Any mistake in classification results in incorrect testing and documentation, leading to wasted time and additional costs. Products are categorized based on HS codes and matched with the applicable technical regulation.

Once classification is confirmed, the required testing scope is defined. All tests must be conducted exclusively in EAEU-accredited laboratories. Test reports form the core basis of the conformity certificate.

Application Documents and Timeline

The EAC conformity application requires a comprehensive documentation package. Missing or incomplete documents cause delays or rejection. Preparing these documents correctly and on time is essential.

The application follows a step-by-step timeline, starting with technical files, continuing with laboratory test reports, and finalizing with submission to the certification authority.

Approved Laboratory Selection

All tests for EAC certification must be performed only in laboratories accredited by the EAEU. Reports from non-accredited labs are rejected. Laboratory choice is a strategic step that impacts both cost and timing.

Selection should consider product category, accreditation scope, capacity, and reporting language. Correct selection accelerates the process, while mistakes lead to retesting and extra expenses.

Labeling and Language Requirements

Products certified with an EAC mark must comply with labeling and language requirements before being placed on the EAEU market. Labels must include technical and commercial information. Incorrect or incomplete labeling may cause customs delays or even product recalls.

Russian is mandatory on all labels. Manufacturer name, importer details, country of origin, EAC mark, and basic usage instructions must be included. Label clarity, accuracy, and durability are key during inspections.

"Language and labeling are not just legal requirements, but the foundation of consumer trust."

Common Customs Issues

Even with EAC or COC certificates, companies may encounter obstacles during customs clearance. Most problems arise from documentation errors, misclassification, or labeling deficiencies. Anticipating these risks helps prevent delays and extra costs.

Small errors in product classification can subject goods to entirely different regulations. Inconsistencies in shipping documents and invoices are another frequent cause of detention.

Cost and Duration Estimates

The costs and timelines for obtaining EAC and COC certificates vary depending on product category, testing scope, and certificate type. Total expenses usually include laboratory fees, application charges, and consultancy services. Duration is heavily influenced by laboratory capacity and documentation completeness.

On average, certification can take between 2 and 12 weeks. Costs may range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of USD depending on product complexity and regulation requirements.

Renewal and Scope Extension

EAC and COC certificates are valid for limited durations, typically ranging from 1 to 5 years. When validity ends, renewal is required. Renewal is usually faster than the initial process since previous documentation and test results can be referenced.

Scope extension allows additional products to be included in an existing certificate. In this case, only the new products require testing, and the certificate is reissued. This approach is cost-effective for companies expanding within the same product category.

Supplier/Importer Roles and Responsibilities

In the EAC & COC certification process, the roles of manufacturer, supplier, and importer are clearly defined. The manufacturer provides the technical file and product safety documents, while the importer ensures compliance with local regulations and acts as the official applicant when required.

For manufacturers outside the EAEU, the importer typically assumes the role of applicant and becomes legally responsible. This makes collaboration between suppliers and importers a strategic necessity.

Case Studies

Practical experiences from various industries highlight the importance of correct compliance with EAC and COC regulations. These case studies help companies identify common mistakes and adopt best practices.

Below are real-world examples showing challenges and lessons learned: