EQM Certification (Emirates Quality Mark) is the certification awarded by the UAE government to products that comply with particular UAE National Standards or universal standards. It implies that the product has good quality and has undergone an intensive evaluation to guarantee that it is safe, reliable, and performs as promised.
The Emirates Quality Mark certification acts as an indicator of quality control and helps companies prove their dedication to offering safe, trustworthy products to consumers. Products carrying the EQM gain consumer confidence and can be sold in the UAE market. This certification applies to many items, including electronics, building coverings, cosmetics, food and beverages, medical equipment, and more.
Who Requires Emirates Quality Mark Certification?
Manufacturers, importers, and traders who wish to sell their products in the UAE market are required to obtain EQM certification.
Purpose of Emirates Quality Mark Certification
EQM certification certifies products for high quality, safety, and performance.
Mandatory EQM Certification
Certain products are required to obtain EQM certification to be legally sold, traded, or imported into the UAE. These include:
- Juices and Beverages: Including fruit juices, energy drinks, and bottled water.
- Milk and Dairy Products: Such as milk, yogurt, and cheese.
- Bottled Drinking Water: Ensuring safety and compliance with hygiene standards.
These products must undergo testing and evaluation to ensure they meet the required standards before they can be sold or traded in the UAE market.
Voluntary EQM Certification
For other products, obtaining EQM certification is not mandatory but serves as a mark of quality. Voluntary EQM certification is available for:
- Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Including skincare products, perfumes, and toiletries.
- Detergents and Cleaning Products: Such as household cleaners and industrial detergents.
- Food Contact Materials: Materials that come into contact with food, like packaging and utensils.
While not legally required, obtaining EQM certification for these products can enhance consumer trust and demonstrate a commitment to quality.
Benefits of EQM Certification
- Market Access: Allows products to be legally sold and traded within the UAE.
- Consumer Confidence: Enhances trust among consumers by ensuring product safety and quality.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to UAE regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues.
- Competitive Advantage: Distinguishes products in the market, potentially increasing sales.
- Brand Reputation: Strengthens brand image by demonstrating commitment to quality.
Validity of EQM Certification
EQM certification is typically valid for three years. After this period, products must undergo re-evaluation to maintain certification.
Required Documents for EQM Certification
To obtain EQM certification, the following documents are generally required:
- Valid UAE Industry/Trade License: Proof of legal business operation.
- Test Reports: From accredited laboratories confirming compliance with standards.
- Quality Management System (QMS) Documentation: Evidence of quality control measures in place.
- Product Specifications: Detailed information about the product's composition and characteristics.
- Factory Inspection Report: Assessment of the manufacturing facility's compliance with standards.
- Labeling Information: Samples of product labels to ensure they meet regulatory requirements.
EQM vs ECAS Certification
- EQM is mainly concerned with ensuring that products have good quality and are safe for consumption, making it suitable for products that come into direct contact with the final consumer.
- ECAS, however, aims at producing products that meet the technical regulations of the UAE, typically applicable to products subject to manufacturing or construction standards, as well as medicine.
FAQ's
EQM (Emirates Quality Mark) is a certification granted by the UAE government to products that meet UAE National Standards or internationally recognized standards. It ensures that products are of high quality, safe, reliable, and perform as expected.
Manufacturers, importers, and traders who wish to sell their products in the UAE market need EQM certification.
EQM certification certifies that products meet high standards of quality, safety, and performance, ensuring they are trustworthy and safe for consumers.
Certain products that need EQM certification to be sold or imported into the UAE include:
- Juices and Beverages (e.g., fruit juices, energy drinks, bottled water)
- Milk and Dairy Products (e.g., milk, yogurt, cheese)
- Bottled Drinking Water (ensuring safety and compliance with hygiene standards)
Voluntary EQM certification is available for:
- Cosmetics and Personal Care Products (e.g., skincare, perfumes)
- Detergents and Cleaning Products (e.g., household cleaners)
- Food Contact Materials (e.g., packaging and utensils)
These products don’t require certification by law but can gain consumer trust and demonstrate quality through EQM certification.
- Market Access: Allows legal sale and trade in the UAE.
- Consumer Confidence: Ensures product safety and quality.
- Regulatory Compliance: Helps meet UAE regulations and avoid legal issues.
- Competitive Advantage: Differentiates products in the market.
- Brand Reputation: Builds trust and demonstrates commitment to quality.
EQM certification is typically valid for three years. After that, products need to undergo re-evaluation to maintain certification.
- Valid UAE Industry/Trade License
- Test Reports from accredited labs
- Quality Management System (QMS) Documentation
- Product Specifications
- Factory Inspection Report
- Labeling Information
EQM focuses on ensuring products meet high quality standards and are safe for consumers, making it ideal for consumer-facing products.