As an important member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), Kazakhstan's product market access system follows the EAC certification framework. EAC conformity assessment is a key step for entering Kazakhstan and the entire Eurasian economic market, involving complex technical regulations and procedural requirements. This article will systematically analyze the applicable scope, core pathways, and implementation points of EAC certification to help businesses efficiently complete compliance and market entry.
1. Legal Basis of EAC Certification
Kazakhstan implements the unified technical regulations of the EAEU (TR CU/TR EAEU), covering 33 industry sectors including machinery, electrical, light industry, and food. According to Article 28 of the 2021 revised Treaty on the Eurasian Economic Union, all products listed in the mandatory list must undergo EAC certification or declaration procedures before they can legally enter the Kazakhstani market. Typical controlled products include:
- High-voltage electrical equipment (TR CU 004/2011)
- Children's products (TR CU 007/2011)
- Elevator equipment (TR CU 011/2011)
- Flammable liquid storage tanks (TR CU 032/2013)
2. Comparison of Main Conformity Assessment Pathways
1. EAC Certification (Mandatory)
Applicable to high-risk products, requiring a full-scope review by an EAEU accredited body. The process includes:
- Technical documentation review (including design drawings and material lists)
- Sample laboratory testing (must be conducted in CNAS or EAEU accredited laboratories)
- Production audit (factory inspection required for some categories)
- Certificate validity: 1–5 years
2. EAC Declaration (Voluntary)
Medium- and low-risk products can opt for this pathway. Applicants must retain technical documentation for reference. Key differences include:
- No need for the issuing body’s signature, but conformity evidence must be provided
- Acceptance of third-party test reports (from EAEU accredited laboratories)
- Declaration validity: up to 5 years
3. Special Assessment Schemes
- Single-batch certification: applicable for temporary imports (validity limited to that batch)
- Series production certification: requires the establishment of a quality management system (ISO 9001 can serve as supporting proof)
3. Key Steps for Certification Implementation
1. Product Classification
Identify applicable standards by matching HS codes with the Annexes of the EAEU Technical Regulations. For example:
- Electric kettles (HS 8516.79) are subject to TR CU 004/2011 (Low Voltage Directive)
2. Document Preparation
- Technical passport in Russian (including product specifications and circuit diagrams)
- Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for raw materials
- Previous certification certificates (if any, such as CE, GOST, etc.)
3. Testing Requirements
- Electrical safety tests (e.g., LVD, EMC)
- Mechanical risk assessment (EN 60204-1 standard)
- Chemical testing (RoHS, REACH, etc.)
4. Common Problem Solutions
1. Localization Requirements
Starting from 2023, Kazakhstan has imposed localization requirements on some industrial products (e.g., automotive parts must reach 30% localization). Recommendations:
- Plan the supply chain in advance
- Keep proof of raw material purchases
2. Labeling Standards
The EAC mark must:
- Be at least 5mm in height
- Be permanently marked on the product nameplate
- Include the registration number of the certification body
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