How to Certify Your Products for 'Made in South Africa' Preference

In government procurement, being local is no longer just about patriotism—it's about points. The South African government uses 'Specific Goals' in its tender evaluation to reward companies that manufacture products within the country. However, simply saying you are local isn't enough; you need the right certifications to prove it. This guide explores how to formally certify your products as 'Made in South Africa.'

1. Proudly South African Membership

The most visible way to demonstrate your local status is through membership with <strong>Proudly South African</strong>. To display the iconic 'tick' logo, your products must meet four criteria:

• <strong>Local Content:</strong> At least 50% of the cost of production must be incurred in South Africa.
• <strong>Quality:</strong> The product must meet high-quality standards set by bodies like SABS.
• <strong>Labor Standards:</strong> You must comply with all South African labor laws.
• <strong>Environmental Standards:</strong> You must practice environmentally responsible manufacturing.

2. SABS Product Certification (The SABS Mark)

While Proudly SA is about 'origin,' the <strong>South African Bureau of Standards (SABS)</strong> is about 'quality.' Many government tenders specifically state that 'only SABS approved products will be considered.' Receiving the 'SABS Approved' mark involves:

1. Factory inspections to ensure your manufacturing process is consistent.
2. Product testing in SABS accredited laboratories.
3. Ongoing monitoring to maintain the certification.

3. The dtic Local Content Certificate

For products in 'designated sectors' (like bus bodies or canned food), you may need a verification certificate from the <strong>Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic)</strong>. This is a formal audit of your Annexure C declarations to prove that you indeed reached the required local content threshold.

The Benefits in the Tender Box

Having these certifications allows you to score points under 'Specific Goals.' In the 80/20 system, while 80 points are for price, the remaining 20 points are often split between B-BBEE and Local Production. In a tight race, the 5 or 10 points awarded for 'Local Manufacture' are frequently what decides the winner.

Conclusion

Transitioning from being an importer to a local manufacturer is a significant step for any business. By securing Proudly SA membership and SABS certification, you not only improve your chances of winning government tenders but also contribute to the vital goal of South African industrialization. Start with a self-audit of your local content today and begin the formal certification process to unlock the full potential of the public sector market.