Practical Insights for Exporters: Understanding PROGEC Requirements and Market Access in Gabon

Gabon remains a key import-driven market across multiple sectors, creating opportunities for exporters worldwide. However, access to this market is closely linked to compliance with the Gabonese Conformity Assessment Programme (PROGEC), regulated by the Agence Gabonaise de Normalisation (AGANOR). 

While PROGEC is often viewed as a certification requirement, in practice it plays a broader role: it defines how and when products can enter the Gabonese market and directly impacts shipment timelines, documentation workflows, and supply chain planning. 

Under PROGEC, regulated products must undergo conformity assessment before shipment, and each consignment must be supported by a valid Certificate of Conformity (CoC). 

Without a valid CoC: 

• Goods may not be cleared by customs
• Shipments may be delayed or rejected
• Additional costs and operational disruptions may arise

This makes PROGEC a pre-shipment control mechanism, rather than a post-arrival verification step.  

Exporter insight: Certification timelines should be integrated into production and shipping schedules, not treated as an administrative step at the end. 

To better understand how PROGEC impacts export operations in practice, it is important to look more closely at its scope, process, and key considerations for exporters. 

A.) Product Scope 

One of the most important steps for exporters is determining whether their products fall under PROGEC requirements. The programme covers a wide range of goods, including: 

• Industrial and mechanical equipment
• Electrical and electronic products
• Construction materials and metals
• Chemicals, plastics, and consumer products 

At the same time, certain product categories, such as food products, are exempt from PROGEC requirements. 

Not sure if your product is regulated? 

For a detailed overview of regulated and exempted products, download our Gabon Regulated Product List. 

Exporter insight: Misclassifying product scope can lead to unnecessary certification efforts or compliance gaps that may delay shipments. 

B.) Certification Process 

The PROGEC certification process consists of a series of defined steps that must be completed prior to shipment. 

1. Documentation Verification 

The exporter must submit the required documentation, including the Request for Certification form, commercial invoice, packing list, and valid compliance documents such as test reports and technical specifications. 

Exporter insight: Ensure all documents are consistent and aligned in terms of product description, quantities, and specifications to avoid delays during verification. 

2. Laboratory Testing 

Where valid test reports are not available or are incomplete, product samples may be tested in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory. 

Exporter insight: The absence of valid test reports may extend the certification timeline, particularly for new products or first-time shipments. 

3. Physical Inspection 

Goods are subject to physical inspection to verify compliance with applicable standards, including product markings, labeling, and consistency with submitted documentation. Sampling and container sealing may be carried out where required.

Exporter insight: Ensure that product labeling and markings are compliant prior to inspection, as discrepancies at this stage may lead to delays. 

4. Certificate of Conformity (CoC) 

The Certificate of Conformity is issued upon successful completion of the conformity assessment process. A valid CoC is required for customs clearance in Gabon. 

Exporter insight: Certification must be completed before shipment, as goods without a valid CoC may not be cleared upon arrival. 

C.) Now, what are the common pitfalls that might impact shipments? (Key considerations for exporters) 

Across different sectors, a number of recurring issues can affect PROGEC compliance: 

• Starting the certification process too late in the shipping cycle
• Assuming requirements are similar to other VOC programmes
• Relying on incomplete or outdated test reports
• Underestimating labeling and documentation requirements 

Cotecna is authorized by AGANOR to conduct conformity assessments and issue Certificates of Conformity (CoCs) under the PROGEC programme. This certification confirms that shipments meet Gabon’s product quality and safety requirements. 

Cotecna supports exporters through: 

• Pre-export inspections
• Technical documentation review
• Certification issuance through AGANOR-approved channels 

For more information on exporting to Gabon under the PROGEC programme, you can download our Exporter Guide or contact us for assistance. 

About Cotecna

For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.