How to Ship Goods from China to Belarus with EAC Certification: A Comprehensive Guide to Eurasian Economic Union Compliance
Shipping goods from China to Belarus or other Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member countries requires adherence to EAC certification (ЕАЭС сертификат соответствия). This certification ensures compliance with technical regulations across the EAEU, facilitating smooth customs clearance and market access. In this guide, we’ll break down the steps to achieve EAC compliance, avoid delays, and successfully ship products to Belarus.
Why EAC Certification Matters for Belarus and the EAEU
The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) comprises Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan. To trade goods within this bloc, products must comply with EAC certification, which confirms safety, quality, and regulatory alignment. Failure to obtain EAC certification can result in:
- Customs rejections or seizures.
- Heavy fines and penalties.
- Delayed deliveries, impacting business reputation.
For Chinese exporters, EAC certification is non-negotiable for entering the Belarusian market legally.
Step-by-Step Guide to EAC Certification for Shipping to Belarus
1. Determine the Certification Scheme
EAC certification follows three schemes depending on your product’s risk level:
- EAC Exemption: Low-risk goods (e.g., some consumer products) may not require certification.
- EAC Declaration: Medium-risk products (e.g., machinery, electronics) require a declaration by the manufacturer.
- EAC Certification: High-risk products (e.g., food, medical devices, chemicals) need third-party testing and audits.
Check the EAEU Unified List of Goods to confirm your product’s category.
2. Identify Harmonized Standards
Ensure your product meets EAEU technical regulations and adopts GOST standards (Russian national standards) or international equivalents like ISO, EN, or ASTM. For example:
- Electronics: Must comply with EMC, safety, and radiation standards.
- Food products: Require sanitary-epidemiological expertise (SanEpiz).
3. Collaborate with a Certification Body
Choose an accredited EAC certification center in China or the EAEU. Popular options include:
- China National Center for Quality Supervision and Testing (CNCQST).
- Russian Federal Accreditation Service (Rosaccreditatsiya) centers.
- Private agencies like Bureau Veritas or TÜV Rheinland (with EAEU accreditation).
Tip: Work with agents experienced in both Chinese and EAEU regulations to streamline the process.
4. Prepare Documentation
Gather the following for EAC application:
- Product specifications and manuals.
- Test reports from accredited labs.
- Manufacturer’s ISO certificate (if applicable).
- Bill of Lading and commercial invoices.
5. Pass Testing and Audits
For high-risk products, undergo:
- Sample testing at EAEU-approved labs.
- Factory audits to verify manufacturing compliance.
Turnaround time*: 4–8 weeks for full certification, depending on product complexity.*
6. Mark Products with EAC Signs
Once certified, apply the EAC marking to your products:
- EAC logo + certification number (e.g., ЕАС РФ/ТР…).
- Ensure labels are visible and durable.
Common Challenges & Solutions
- Language Barriers: Partner with translation services or local reps to navigate Russian/Belarusian documentation.
- Cost Management: Bundle multiple products under one certification to reduce fees.
- Time Constraints: Start the certification process 2–3 months before shipping to avoid delays.
Shipping to Belarus: Post-Certification Steps
- Customs Declaration: Use the EAC certificate to declare goods at Belarusian borders.
- Tax Planning: Be aware of import duties (0%-15% for most goods) and VAT (15-20%).
- Post-Sale Compliance: Maintain records for potential audits by EAEU authorities.
Why Choose EAC-Compliant Shipping?
- Market Access: Gain access to 180 million+ consumers across the EAEU.
- Trust: EAC certification builds buyer confidence in product safety and quality.
- Risk Mitigation: Avoid legal issues, fines, and cargo seizures.
