Arabic Gum Export Requirements in Saudi Arabia: Compliance

Exporting Arabic Gum to Saudi Arabia requires precise adherence to a multi-layered regulatory framework involving technical standards, food safety protocols, and customs procedures. The process begins with correct tariff classification, as raw Gum Arabic falls under HS code 1301.20, while processed forms are categorized differently. Misclassification can lead to significant delays, fines, and shipment rejections at major ports like Jeddah and Dammam. Understanding these distinctions is the first step in navigating Arabic Gum Export Requirements in Saudi Arabia: Compliance.

Success depends on coordination with key authorities including SASO, the SFDA, and ZATCA. Exporters must secure a Halal certificate from an approved body, obtain a Certificate of Conformity through a regional conformity assessment portal, and submit detailed documentation via the Fasah system before arrival. This guide outlines the specific HS codes, mandatory certifications, and documentation workflows necessary to ensure smooth clearance and market access for natural exudates.

Arabic Gum Export Requirements in Saudi Arabia: Key HS Codes & Classification

HS 1301.20 for raw Gum Arabic

The correct tariff classification for raw Gum Arabic is HS code 1301.20, which covers exudates of natural gums, resins, and gum-resins. This code distinguishes the raw commodity from processed chewing gum, which falls under HS 2106.90. Misclassification triggers significant customs delays and potential fines, as authorities strictly separate natural exudates from manufactured food products. Saudi Arabia's imports of commodity group 1301 (lac; natural gums, resins, gum-resins and oleoresins, which includes gum arabic) totalled $ 27 million in 2023. This figure, according to Trendeconomy (UN Comtrade data), Trendeconomy, highlights the substantial market volume that relies on accurate tariff coding. Exporters must ensure their commercial invoices explicitly reference HS 1301.20 to facilitate smooth clearance.

HS 2106.90 for processed chewing gum

Processed chewing gum requires a different classification, specifically HS 2106.90, which covers food preparations not elsewhere specified or included. This distinction is critical because the regulatory requirements for natural exudates differ significantly from those for manufactured food additives. While raw gum arabic falls under chapter 13, the processed form is treated as a composite food product. Using the wrong code can lead to incorrect duty assessments and rejection of the shipment. Exporters must clearly define the product state, whether it is raw, refined, or processed, to apply the correct HS code. Proper classification ensures that the product meets the specific technical regulations for its intended use, whether as a food additive or a pharmaceutical excipient.

Why misclassification triggers delays

Customs authorities in Saudi Arabia strictly enforce HS code accuracy to apply the correct safety and tariff regulations. Misclassification often results in immediate holds, requiring exporters to provide additional documentation or reclassify the goods. This process can delay shipments by weeks, incurring storage fees and disrupting supply chains. The distinction between raw gum arabic and processed chewing gum is particularly sensitive, as they fall under different regulatory oversight. Exporters should consult with a licensed customs broker to verify the correct classification before shipping. Accurate documentation prevents unnecessary inspections and ensures that the product enters the Saudi market without administrative hurdles.

Product Type	HS Code	Category	Regulatory Focus
Raw Gum Arabic	1301.20	Natural Exudates	SASO Technical Regulations
Processed Chewing Gum	2106.90	Food Preparation	SFDA Food Safety
Gum Arabic Powder	1301.20	Refined Exudate	SASO Technical Regulations

The table above summarizes the primary classifications for gum arabic products entering the Saudi market. Raw and refined forms fall under HS 1301.20, subjecting them to SASO technical regulations for natural exudates. Processed chewing gum, classified under HS 2106.90, requires compliance with SFDA food safety standards. Exporters must match their product description to the correct row to ensure regulatory alignment. Using the wrong code can lead to compliance failures and shipment rejection. Global trade in this sector is significant, with world imports of gum arabic exceeding $486 million in 2023. This figure, according to Trendeconomy (UN Comtrade data), Trendeconomy, underscores the importance of precise classification for capturing market share.

Regulatory Bodies: SASO, SFDA, and Customs Authority

SASO technical regulations for food additives

The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) establishes the technical regulations that gum arabic must meet to enter the market. These regulations define purity standards, allowable contaminants, and labeling requirements for natural exudates. Exporters must ensure their product complies with these technical specifications before applying for certification. SASO requirements are often aligned with international standards, but local adaptations may apply. Compliance is verified through a regional conformity assessment portal, which mandates specific conformity certificates. Understanding these regulations is essential for avoiding rejections at the border.

SFDA food safety registration requirements

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) oversees the safety of food additives, including gum arabic when used in food products. Registration with the SFDA is mandatory for importers, who must provide detailed product information and safety data. The registration process involves submitting technical files that demonstrate compliance with food safety standards. Exporters should ensure their documentation is complete and accurate to facilitate the importer's registration. SFDA requirements focus on hygiene, traceability, and safety assessments. Non-compliance can result in product recalls or bans.

ZATCA customs clearance mandate

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) handles the customs clearance process for all imports, including gum arabic. Exporters must provide accurate commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin to ZATCA. The authority verifies the declared value and classification of the goods to assess duties and taxes. ZATCA also enforces trade regulations and ensures that all required permits are in place. Proper documentation is crucial for smooth customs clearance. Delays often occur due to discrepancies in the submitted paperwork.

Authority	Role	Key Requirement	Platform/Process
SASO	Technical Standards	Conformity Certificate	Regional Conformity Portal
SFDA	Food Safety	Product Registration	SFDA Portal
ZATCA	Customs Clearance	Duty Assessment	ZATCA System

The table outlines the distinct roles of the three primary regulatory bodies governing gum arabic imports. SASO focuses on technical standards and requires a conformity certificate via the regional portal. SFDA ensures food safety and mandates product registration. ZATCA manages customs clearance and duty assessment. Exporters must navigate all three systems to successfully enter the Saudi market. Understanding these roles helps in preparing the correct documentation and avoiding compliance gaps.

Mandatory Certifications: Halal, SASO, and Saber Registration

Three certification pillars govern Arabic Gum entry into Saudi Arabia: Halal certification, SASO Certificate of Conformity, and Saber platform registration. Each addresses a distinct regulatory layer and missing any single certificate will halt the shipment at the port.

Halal certificate from SFDA-approved bodies

Yes, Halal certification is required for Arabic Gum exports to Saudi Arabia because the product is classified as a food additive under SFDA jurisdiction. The certificate must be issued by an Islamic center or Halal certification body officially recognized and listed by the SFDA. Exporters should verify the current list of approved bodies on the SFDA website before engaging a certifier, as the list updates periodically. The Halal certificate typically covers the manufacturing facility, the specific product batch, and confirms the absence of cross-contamination with non-Halal substances. Without this document, the SFDA will not grant the product registration needed for customs clearance.

SASO Certificate of Conformity (CoC)

The SASO Certificate of Conformity confirms that the Arabic Gum meets the applicable Saudi technical regulations and Gulf standards for food additives. This certificate is issued by a SASO-notified Conformity Assessment Body (CAB) after reviewing the product test reports and technical file. The CoC is a prerequisite for the Saber platform registration and must be valid at the time of shipment. Exporters should ensure the CAB holds a valid scope of accreditation for HS 1301.20 to avoid rejection during the Saber product listing phase.

Saber platform product registration

Saber platform registration is the electronic gateway that links the physical certificates to the customs clearance system. The importer of record in Saudi Arabia creates the product listing on Saber, uploads the PCoC (Product Certificate of Conformity) issued by the CAB, and subsequently requests the Shipment CoC for each consignment. The Saber system validates the certificates against the HS code and regulatory requirements before issuing the Shipment CoC, which ZATCA requires for final customs release. Both the importer and exporter must maintain active Saber accounts to manage this workflow efficiently.

Step-by-Step: Registering on the Saber Platform for Gum Arabic

Registering Arabic Gum on the Saber platform follows a structured workflow that begins with account setup and ends with the Shipment Certificate of Conformity for each consignment. The process is mandatory for HS 1301.20 and requires coordination between the Saudi importer and the foreign exporter.

Create importer/exporter Saber accounts

The Saudi importer must first register a company account on the Saber portal using their commercial registration (CR) number and national ID. Once the importer account is active, they can invite the foreign exporter to create a linked exporter account. The exporter account allows the manufacturer to upload technical documentation directly. Both parties should use the same legal entity names that appear on the commercial invoice and certificate of origin to prevent mismatches during ZATCA verification. According to Trendeconomy (UN Comtrade data), Turkey supplied 28% (7.78 million US$) of Saudi Arabia's HS 1301 natural gum and resin imports in 2023, highlighting the volume of trade flowing through this digital compliance channel. According to Trendeconomy (UN Comtrade data), Indonesia supplied 10.8% (3 million US$) of Saudi Arabia's HS 1301 natural gum and resin imports in 2023, reflecting the diversity of supply origins that exporters must accommodate.

Submit technical file and test reports

The exporter uploads a comprehensive technical file to the Saber product listing. This file includes the product specification sheet, safety data sheet (SDS), Halal certificate, and laboratory test reports from an ISO 17025 accredited lab covering microbiological limits, heavy metals, and purity parameters per Gulf Standard GSO 2502. The Conformity Assessment Body (CAB) reviews this file to issue the Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC). The PCoC is valid for one year and covers the specific product model or grade listed. Any change in formulation, source, or packaging requires a new PCoC application.

Obtain Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and Shipment CoC

After the CAB approves the technical file, the PCoC is issued and visible on the Saber dashboard. For every shipment, the importer logs into Saber, selects the registered product, enters the shipment details (bill of lading number, invoice, packing list), and requests the Shipment CoC. The CAB verifies the shipment documents against the PCoC and issues the Shipment CoC, usually within 24 to 48 hours. This Shipment CoC is the final document ZATCA checks at the port. Delays often occur when the bill of lading details do not match the commercial invoice or when the HS code on the invoice differs from the registered Saber listing.

Required Export Documents for Saudi Customs Clearance

Clearing Arabic Gum through Saudi customs requires a complete digital dossier submitted via the Fasah platform before the vessel arrives. ZATCA cross-references every document against the Saber Shipment CoC and the commercial invoice. Missing or mismatched papers trigger automatic inspection holds that add storage charges at Jeddah Islamic Port or King Abdulaziz Port Dammam. The importer of record typically manages the Fasah declaration, but the exporter must supply every original or certified copy listed below. All certificates must reflect the exact HS code 13012000, batch numbers, and net weights that appear on the Saber registration.

Commercial invoice and packing list

The commercial invoice must show the exporter and importer legal names, CR numbers, Incoterm, currency, unit price, total value, HS code 13012000, and a declaration that the goods comply with Gulf Standard GSO 2502. The packing list details every pallet or bag with gross weight, net weight, dimensions, and batch codes matching the phytosanitary certificate. Both documents require the exporter stamp and signature. Saudi customs rejects invoices that round quantities or omit the manufacturing date. Prepare at least three original signed sets for the carrier, the importer, and the bank if payment is by letter of credit.

Certificate of Origin (chamber legalized)

A Certificate of Origin issued by the chamber of commerce in the exporting country and legalized by the Saudi embassy or consulate confirms the gum qualifies for GCC tariff treatment. The document must state the country of origin as Sudan, Chad, Nigeria, or another recognized producer. Digital e-CO versions accepted through Fasah must carry the chamber QR code and the Saudi mission attestation stamp. Without legalization, ZATCA applies the general Most Favored Nation rate of 5 percent instead of the GCC duty-free status. Ensure the HS code and product description match the commercial invoice exactly.

Health Certificate and Phytosanitary Certificate

The competent agricultural authority in the origin country issues the phytosanitary certificate confirming the shipment is free from pests, Khapra beetle, and pesticide residues above Gulf maximum residue limits. The health certificate from the veterinary or food safety authority certifies the gum is fit for human consumption and processed under hygienic conditions. Both certificates must reference the same container numbers, bill of lading, and batch codes as the Saber Shipment CoC. SFDA inspectors at the port verify the issuing authority stamp against the GCC approved laboratory list.

Halal Certificate and CoC copies

An accredited Halal certification body recognized by the Saudi Halal Center issues the Halal certificate covering the specific production lot. The certificate must include the facility audit reference, slaughter-free processing statement, and validity date. Print the Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and the Shipment Certificate of Conformity (CoC) directly from the Saber platform and attach them to the Fasah declaration. ZATCA officers scan the QR codes on both CoCs to confirm the shipment matches the registered product. Missing Halal or CoC documents result in immediate re-export orders.

Document	Issuing Authority	Legalization Required	Validity Window	Fasah Upload Timing
Commercial Invoice	Exporter	Chamber stamp + Saudi embassy	Per shipment	Pre-arrival (24 hrs before docking)
Packing List	Exporter	Chamber stamp	Per shipment	Pre-arrival (24 hrs before docking)
Certificate of Origin	Chamber of Commerce	Saudi embassy/consulate	Per shipment	Pre-arrival (24 hrs before docking)
Phytosanitary Certificate	National Plant Protection Org	None (original)	14 days from issuance	Pre-arrival (24 hrs before docking)
Health Certificate	Competent Food Authority	None (original)	Per shipment	Pre-arrival (24 hrs before docking)
Halal Certificate	Saudi Halal Center Accredited Body	None (digital accepted)	1 year (facility) / lot specific	Pre-arrival (24 hrs before docking)
PCoC & Shipment CoC	Saber Platform (CAB)	None (digital)	PCoC 1 year / Shipment CoC per shipment	Pre-arrival (auto-linked via Saber)

The table above maps each mandatory document to its issuing body, legalization step, validity period, and the Fasah upload deadline. Phytosanitary certificates expire 14 days after issuance, so coordinate vessel sailing dates with the inspection schedule in the origin country. The PCoC remains valid for one year unless the grade or source changes, while the Shipment CoC is generated for every consignment. Upload all papers to Fasah at least 24 hours before the vessel docks to avoid demurrage charges that start at SAR 150 per container per day after the free storage period.

Labeling and Packaging Compliance: Arabic Language & SFDA Standards

SFDA enforces Gulf Standard GSO 9/2013 and GSO 2502 for every food additive entering Saudi Arabia. Arabic Gum labels must carry mandatory fields in Arabic either printed directly on the bag or applied via a tamper-proof sticker approved by the SFDA. English text is permitted alongside Arabic but never replaces it. Non-compliant labeling triggers a re-labeling order at the port warehouse costing SAR 8 to SAR 12 per bag plus 48 to 72 hours of additional detention. The label must survive humidity and stacking during transit from Port Sudan or Lagos to Jeddah.

Product name, ingredients, net weight in Arabic

The product name "Gum Arabic" or "Arabic Gum" must appear in bold Arabic font no smaller than 4 mm height on the principal display panel. The ingredient list declares "Gum Arabic 100%" with no additives unless registered separately. Net weight in kilograms or grams follows the metric system only. Dual language labels place Arabic above or to the right of English. SFDA inspectors measure font height with a caliper; labels printed below the 4 mm threshold fail inspection. Use UV-resistant ink on multi-wall kraft bags with polyethylene liners to prevent smudging during Red Sea transit.

Production/expiry dates and country of origin

Production date and expiry date follow the Gregorian calendar in day-month-year format (DD/MM/YYYY) in Arabic numerals. The shelf life for food-grade Arabic Gum is typically 24 months from manufacture when stored below 25 degrees Celsius. The country of origin phrase "Country of Origin: Sudan" or the relevant producer nation must be permanent and indelible. Stickers covering the origin are prohibited. If the gum is processed in a third country, the label shows the processing country and the raw material origin separately. SFDA cross-checks these dates against the health certificate and the Saber PCoC manufacturing records.

Batch number and storage conditions

Every bag carries a unique batch or lot number traceable to the processor's HACCP records and the phytosanitary certificate. The batch code format typically includes the plant code, Julian date, and sequence number. Storage conditions statement "Store in a cool dry place" is mandatory. Recommended stacking height and maximum temperature limits may be added as pictograms. The label adhesive must withstand 40 degrees Celsius and 80 percent relative humidity during container dwell time at Jeddah Islamic Port. Exporters should validate label adhesion with a 48-hour accelerated aging test before full production runs.

Label Field	Arabic Requirement	Font Size Minimum	Placement	Language Rule	Verification Method
Product Name	Gum Arabic	4 mm height	Principal display panel	Arabic mandatory, English optional	Caliper measurement at port
Ingredients	Gum Arabic 100%	3 mm height	Information panel	Arabic mandatory	Visual match with PCoC
Net Weight	Net Weight: 25 kg	4 mm height	Principal display panel	Metric only, Arabic numerals	Weighbridge at clearance
Production/Expiry Date	Production Date: 01/01/2025	3 mm height	Principal display panel	DD/MM/YYYY Gregorian	Cross-check with health cert
Country of Origin	Country of Origin: Chad	3 mm height	Information panel	Arabic mandatory, indelible	Match Certificate of Origin
Batch Number	Batch Number: SD-2025-001	3 mm height	Information panel	Alphanumeric traceable code	Trace to HACCP & phyto cert
Storage Conditions	Store in a cool dry place	3 mm height	Information panel	Arabic mandatory	Visual inspection

The table summarizes each mandatory label field, the exact Arabic text convention, minimum font height, panel placement, language rule, and the SFDA verification method used at the port. Font height is measured physically; a 3.5 mm print fails the 4 mm rule for product name and net weight. Net weight must use metric units only; pounds or ounces invalidate the label. The batch number links the physical bag to the digital Saber record and the phytosanitary certificate. Exporters shipping through multi-origin consolidation hubs should verify that co-loaded pallets carry distinct batch codes to prevent cross-contamination of traceability records.

Import Duties, VAT, and Estimated Costs

Customs duty rate for HS 1301.20

The applied customs duty for Arabic Gum classified under HS 1301.20 is 5 percent ad valorem on the CIF value. This rate is consistent with the GCC Unified Customs Tariff for natural gums and resins. Importers must declare the transaction value inclusive of freight and insurance to calculate the duty base accurately. Misclassification under HS 1301.90 or other subheadings can trigger reassessment and penalties during customs verification.

VAT calculation base and payment timing

Value Added Tax of 15 percent applies to the sum of the CIF value plus the customs duty paid. The VAT is settled at the port of entry through the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) e-portal before the shipment is released. The importer of record, registered for VAT in Saudi Arabia, files the return and offsets input tax against output tax in the regular filing cycle. Cash flow planning should account for this upfront outlay at clearance.

Estimated clearance fees and port charges

Beyond duty and VAT, exporters should budget for port handling charges, terminal fees, and the Saber platform Certificate of Conformity issuance cost. Typical clearance fees at Jeddah Islamic Port or King Abdulaziz Port Dammam range from SAR 800 to SAR 1,500 per container for documentation and inspection coordination. Demurrage and detention charges apply if containers exceed the free-time allowance, usually five working days. Spain supplied 19% (5.27 million US$) of Saudi Arabia's HS 1301 natural gum and resin imports in 2023 according to Trendeconomy, indicating established trade lanes where freight forwarders can negotiate competitive local handling rates.

Cost Component	Basis	Rate / Amount	Paid To	Timing
Customs Duty	CIF Value	5%	ZATCA / Customs	At Clearance
VAT	CIF + Duty	15%	ZATCA	At Clearance
Saber CoC Fee	Per Shipment	~SAR 500, 1,000	Conformity Assessment Body	Pre-Shipment
Port Handling	Per Container	~SAR 800, 1,500	Port Authority	At Release
Demurrage (Post Free Time)	Per Day / Container	~SAR 300, 500	Shipping Line	After 5 Free Days

The table above consolidates the primary cost layers for a standard 20-foot container of Arabic Gum. Duty and VAT are statutory and non-negotiable. The Saber Certificate of Conformity fee varies by the chosen Conformity Assessment Body and product risk category. Port handling covers terminal operations and customs inspection facilitation. Demurrage is the most variable cost; efficient pre-clearance paperwork via the Fasah platform minimizes dwell time. Exporters quoting DDP or DAP Incoterms must embed these figures into the landed cost model to avoid margin erosion.

Prohibited Items and Restricted Trade Practices

Pesticide and aflatoxin limits (SFDA/GSO)

Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) enforces Gulf Standardization Organization (GSO) limits for contaminants in food additives. Arabic Gum must comply with maximum residue limits for pesticides established by Codex Alimentarius where specific GSO standards are absent. Total aflatoxin (B1+B2+G1+G2) must not exceed 10 µg/kg, and aflatoxin B1 must not exceed 5 µg/kg. Shipments accompanied by certificates of analysis showing levels above these thresholds are rejected at the port and subject to re-export or destruction at the importer’s expense. Laboratories conducting the testing must be ISO 17025 accredited and recognized by the Saudi Accreditation Center.

Unregistered importer or expired CoC

Every consignment requires a valid Commercial Registration for the importer with an active food import license from SFDA. The Saber Certificate of Conformity must be issued before the vessel arrives and remain valid for the specific shipment. An expired CoC or a CoC linked to a different batch number blocks the Fasah customs declaration. The importer cannot clear the goods until a new CoC is generated, incurring storage charges. Exporters should verify the importer’s Saber account status and CoC validity window before loading at origin.

Non-compliant labeling or missing Halal proof

Labels must meet the mandatory Arabic language requirements detailed in the previous section including product name, net weight, production and expiry dates, country of origin, batch code, and storage conditions. Font heights below the prescribed minimums cause immediate detention. Halal certification is mandatory for Arabic Gum used as a food additive. The certificate must be issued by an Islamic body accredited by the Saudi Halal Center. A missing Halal certificate or one from an unrecognized body results in shipment rejection. Exporters shipping through multi-origin consolidation hubs should verify that co-loaded pallets carry distinct batch codes to prevent cross-contamination of traceability records.

Logistics, Incoterms, and Shipping to Saudi Arabia

Choosing the correct Incoterms directly impacts liability for Saber compliance and customs clearance. Sellers often prefer CIF to limit risk, but buyers demand DDP to control the final clearance process. The Saber Certificate of Conformity requires the exporter to submit accurate data, yet the importer must hold the active account. Misalignment between these roles causes costly delays at Saudi ports.

DDP vs CIF risk allocation for Saber compliance

DDP transfers maximum risk to the seller, including all Saudi customs duties and regulatory fees. Under CIF, the seller pays for freight and insurance only until the goods reach the port of destination. The buyer then handles local clearance and Saber validation. If the Saber certificate contains errors, the importer suffers detention fees under both terms. However, DDP forces the exporter to navigate unfamiliar local regulations without direct control. Exporters must verify the importer’s Saber account status before agreeing to DDP. CIF remains the safer option for most exporters, provided the contract clearly defines who bears the cost of certificate re-issuance.

Jeddah Islamic Port and King Abdullah Port SOPs

Jeddah Islamic Port remains the primary entry point for general cargo, while King Abdullah Port handles specialized bulk and containerized shipments. Both ports enforce strict digital documentation requirements through the Fasah platform. Exporters must ensure the Bill of Lading matches the Saber Certificate exactly. Any discrepancy in container numbers or weight triggers manual inspections. The Jeddah port authority prioritizes food-grade goods but applies rigorous sampling for Arabic Gum. King Abdullah Port offers faster processing times for pre-cleared containers. Shippers should verify the port of discharge on the commercial invoice to avoid routing errors that delay arrival and trigger storage penalties.

Temperature and humidity controls for bulk bags

Arabic Gum is hygroscopic and degrades rapidly in high humidity. Bulk bags must be stored in climate-controlled containers during transit to prevent caking and microbial growth. The shipping route through the Red Sea exposes cargo to extreme heat. Exporters should use desiccants and monitor humidity levels inside the container. Packaging integrity is critical for maintaining product quality. Any moisture damage results in immediate rejection by Saudi quality control inspectors. Proper ventilation and temperature logging provide evidence of care during transit. This documentation supports claims if disputes arise regarding product condition upon arrival.

Conclusion

Exporting Arabic Gum to Saudi Arabia demands strict alignment across three regulatory layers: correct HS 1301.20 classification for raw exudates, a Halal certificate from an SFDA-listed body, and a valid Saber platform registration linking the Product and Shipment Certificates of Conformity. Exporters must prepare a complete digital dossier for the Fasah platform at least 24 hours before vessel arrival and secure a Saudi-embassy legalized Certificate of Origin to access GCC tariff treatment. Labels must meet GSO 9/2013 Arabic-language requirements to prevent port rejection.

Coordinate early with the Saudi importer to synchronize Saber account setup, CAB selection, and SFDA product registration before shipping. Verify the current list of approved Halal certifiers on the SFDA website and confirm the CAB scope covers HS 1301.20. For buyer discovery and market verification, use Global Trade Plaza alongside trade shows and government export-promotion bodies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HS code for Arabic Gum in Saudi Arabia?

The HS code for raw Arabic Gum is 1301.20, covering natural gums and resins. Processed chewing gum falls under 2106.90 as a food preparation. Using the correct code determines the applicable technical regulations and duty rate.

Is Halal certification required for Arabic Gum exports to Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Halal certification is mandatory because Arabic Gum is regulated as a food additive by the SFDA. The certificate must come from an SFDA-recognized Islamic center or Halal body covering the facility and specific product batch.

How do I register my Arabic Gum product on the Saber platform?

The Saudi importer creates a Saber account using their commercial registration, invites the exporter to link an account, and submits the technical file with test reports to a notified CAB for a PCoC. The importer then requests a Shipment CoC for each consignment.

What documents are required for clearing Arabic Gum at Saudi customs?

ZATCA requires a commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, Halal certificate, SASO Shipment CoC from Saber, and a phytosanitary certificate. All documents must match the HS code 13012000 and batch details on the Saber listing.

Does Arabic Gum need a Phytosanitary Certificate for Saudi Arabia?

Yes, a phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country's NPPO is required for raw agricultural products under HS 1301.20. It confirms the consignment is free from pests and meets Saudi plant health import conditions.

What are the labeling requirements for Arabic Gum in Saudi Arabia?

Labels must be in Arabic or include an Arabic sticker showing the product name, net weight, batch number, production and expiry dates, country of origin, and Halal logo. They must comply with SASO technical regulations and GSO 2502 for food additives.

What is the import duty rate for Arabic Gum in Saudi Arabia?

Raw Arabic Gum under HS 1301.20 generally enters duty-free under GCC unified tariff provisions for natural gums. Processed forms under HS 2106.90 typically attract a 5 percent customs duty plus 15 percent VAT on the CIF value.

Can I export Arabic Gum from Germany to Saudi Arabia?

Yes, exports from Germany are permitted provided the exporter secures an SFDA-approved Halal certificate, SASO CoC via a notified CAB, Saber registration, and a German phytosanitary certificate. All documents must align with HS 1301.20 specifications.

What is the cost of exporting Arabic Gum to Saudi Arabia?

Costs include Halal certification fees, CAB testing and CoC issuance charges, Saber platform fees paid by the importer, freight, insurance, and 15 percent VAT on CIF value. Duty is typically zero for raw gum under HS 1301.20.

Is Arabic Gum considered a food additive or raw material in KSA?

It is regulated as a food additive (E414) by the SFDA when intended for food use, requiring product registration. As a raw agricultural exudate under HS 1301.20, it also falls under SASO technical regulations for natural gums.

What happens if my Arabic Gum shipment lacks a CoC?

The shipment will be held at the port by ZATCA, unable to clear customs without the Shipment CoC validated on Saber. The importer faces storage charges, potential demurrage, and the risk of re-export or destruction if compliance is not achieved quickly.

Who is the authorized body for Halal certification in Saudi Arabia?

The SFDA is the sole authority that recognizes and publishes the list of approved Halal certification bodies. Exporters must verify their chosen certifier appears on the current SFDA list before initiating the audit and certification process.

Sources

• Trendeconomy (UN Comtrade data) (2023): Saudi Arabia imports of HS 1301 natural gums and resins
• Trendeconomy (UN Comtrade data) (2023): World gum arabic (HS 130120) imports