Local regulations can pose challenges for companies looking to export their new products to Colombia. Most of the products entering the Colombian markets must meet the country's requirements. Local laws and regulations regarding products are usually enacted to ensure that products and services are safe, of good quality, and meet the needs of consumers.

Why do you need to be certified?

Many types of products are regulated by the Government of Colombia through Mandatory Technical Regulations. The minimum safety and, in some cases, functionality standards must be met. Certification also ensures that your products are environmentally safe and compliant with Colombian import and marketing standards.

When to get certified?

Certification is mandatory for imported products and for products manufactured in Colombia. Before starting production or imports, companies must study the applicable standards and begin the certification process.

VES Testing & Certification provides full support in obtaining the required certificates according to technical regulations established by the Colombian Ministry of Mines and Energy (MINMINAS).

Safety Approvals Certification:

• RETIE
• RETIQ
• RETILAP

Telecom Approval Certification:

• CRC Type

RETIE – Technical Regulation of Electrical Installations, created by Decree 18039 of 2004. Its objective is to ensure safety for people, property, and the environment by minimizing electrical risks.

Products requiring RETIE approval include:

• Elevators
• Fire alarm systems
• Jacuzzis
• Switchgears
• Motors
• Relays
• Plugs and socket-outlets
• Cables
• Transformers
• Other electrical hardware

RETIQ – Technical Regulation for labeling end-use electrical and fuel gas equipment.

Products requiring RETIQ approval include:

• Electric motors
• Refrigeration appliances
• Air conditioners
• Gas cooking appliances
• Washing machines
• Water heaters

RETILAP – Technical Regulation for lighting and street lighting products.

Products requiring RETILAP approval include:

• Lighting products

RETIE, RETIQ, and RETILAP Approvals can be achieved in line with certification schemes defined by ISO/IEC 17067:

• Type 1a: Type testing (valid for tested product only)
• Type 1b: Type testing (sample from production batch)
• Type 4: Type testing, factory inspection, periodic testing
• Type 5: Type testing, QMS audit, surveillance testing

Certification schemes offered:

• Scheme 1b: valid for the lot
• Scheme 4: 1 year
• Scheme 5: 3 years

CRC Type Approval

The CRC (Comisión de Regulación de Comunicaciones) regulates the Colombian telecom market. Approval is mandatory for most telecom and satellite equipment, cellular devices, and products connecting to the PSTN.

Products requiring CRC approval include:

• Satellite equipment
• Mobile phones and data devices
• Other telecom devices connecting to the PSTN

Certification Process in Colombia

Planning

Collect technical product data and consult with VES Testing & Certification specialists.

Offer

Submit required forms, product references, technical sheets, and QMS certificates (if available).

Decision

Choosing VES Testing & Certification ensures professional handling, industry expertise, and reliable certification services.

Execution

Work with auditors to complete certification. Our team ensures compliance with local requirements and provides tailored solutions for your project.