Complex KC Certification, What Are Efficient Import Strategies? - Two Ways to Save Costs and Time Released

1. Utilizing KC Certification of Chinese Manufacturers

The most efficient way is to utilize the KC certification already obtained by Chinese manufacturers from Korean authorities. In this case, domestic importers can import and sell the products without separate certification procedures.

• Advantages:
  • Quick import process: Import time can be shortened by omitting certification procedures.
  • Cost savings: Costs incurred for certification can be saved.
• Precautions:
  • Check if the Chinese manufacturer holds KC certification: You must check with the manufacturer whether they hold KC certification before importing.
  • Verify the validity and scope of the certificate: You must accurately verify the validity period and the scope of application of the certificate for the product.

If the manufacturer is of a considerable size, they often hold a Korean KC certificate. Most internal battery Korean certifications are held, so first check with the manufacturer if they hold a KC certificate.

2. Cooperation with Existing KC Certification Holders

If a domestic importer, not a Chinese manufacturer, has obtained KC certification, product import is possible through cooperation with the importer. However, active cooperation from the company that obtained the KC certification is essential, and it is generally conducted between affiliates, headquarters/branches, or companies with the same representative.

• Required Documents:
  • KC Certification Agency Authorization Agreement: A contract must be drawn up where the company that obtained the KC certification ("Party B") authorizes another company ("Party A") to act as an import agent.
  • Product Details: Detailed information about the imported product must be included in the contract.
• Precautions:
  • Cooperation with unrelated companies is practically difficult: The consent of the company holding the certification is essential, and there is a high possibility that cooperation will not be achieved.
  • The best thing is to get help from a legal expert when drafting the contract, but realistically, the possibility of such a contract being concluded with a completely unrelated company is low, and it is a feasible method between companies with a certain relationship, so the contract format can be decided by both parties.

If cooperation with the company that obtained the KC certification is possible, all import clearance procedures can be carried out in the name of a company called "Party A" that does not have KC certification.