UNBS Launches New e-Portal to Accelerate Clearance of Imported Goods

PCA NewslettersSep 10, 2025

Effective July 1, 2025, the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has launched a new e-portal – a web-based system designed for the inspection and clearance of imported goods. The platform is integrated with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) system and operates based on predefined harmonized system (HS) codes.

A major benefit of the new UNBS e-portal is the reduced turnaround time for import clearance. Once UNBS completes its clearance process, the Import Clearance Certificate (ICC) is automatically issued, unlike the previous manual process.

Additional benefits include:

Online application for ‘release under seal’ to the importer’s premises, helping to significantly reduce demurrage charges
Real-time tracking dashboards for all parties involved in the clearance process, allowing visibility into the ongoing UNBS clearance status

According to the UNBS (Inspection and Clearance of Imports) Regulation 2022, all products imported into Uganda that are covered by compulsory Ugandan standards must undergo clearance by UNBS. Once approved, goods are issued with an ICC before they can exit customs-controlled areas.

As part of the clearance process, one of the mandatory documents required is a certificate of conformity (CoC), issued under the pre-export verification of conformity (PVoC) program. This program ensures that products comply with the compulsory Ugandan standards and applicable technical regulations prior to shipment.

We have been a trusted UNBS contractor under the PVoC program for over 15 years, providing CoCs for a wide range of products. Our long-standing partnership with UNBS reflects our commitment to supporting safe trade while protecting consumers and the environment from substandard or harmful products.

As the global leader in testing, inspection and certification, we have unrivaled expertise in providing product conformity assessment (PCA) services worldwide. Our team of dedicated professionals, supported by a robust digital platform, ensures fast, consistent service delivery.

Clients can submit CoC requests through the SGS Exporter Portal, which offers online submission, request tracking and a built-in communication module for seamless interaction.

Additionally, our contract management office in Uganda offers dedicated key account management and personalized solutions, ensuring seamless access to vital information.

Learn more about Uganda – Pre-Export Verification of Conformity.

This article can also be found in our PCA Newsletter (Q3/2025) – which keeps you up to date with developments in technical barriers to trade and product conformity assessment.