SON Unveils Tech Solution To Curb Influx Of Substandard Products

A technology solution has been launched by the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) known as Product Authentication Mark (PAM), which aims at curbing the influx of substandard products into the Nigerian market. 

Malam Farouk, the Director-General of SON, who spoke at a sensitisation meeting with stakeholders in Port Harcourt, said the technology is also to ensure that all imported and manufactured products meet the requirements of the relevant standards.

He described PAM as a digital technology to complement SON’s conformity assessment and manufacturers’ conformity assessment in furtherance of the fight against substandard and counterfeit products in Nigeria.

He disclosed that in spite of efforts of the organisation, substandard products are still being imported and distributed throughout the country through smuggling and the use of SON stickers on non-certified products.

Salim said that PAM which has been launched in Lagos and other parts of the country is a digital technology to complement the SONCAP and MANCAP to further fight against the influx of substandard and counterfeit products.

”The authentication of products through PAM would block smugglers from importing or manufacturing substandard products in Nigeria.

”SON will continue to facilitate trade, to ensure that importers' and Manufacturer's products meet the required standards around the world.

”The PAM will also help consumers detect and reject substandard goods in the market, also increase productivity, employment of labour, wealth creation and improve the security of lives and properties,” he said.

Salim urged consumers to check the online authenticity of the products they want to buy in the market to ascertain fake, clone and counterfeit products.

He also advised importers whose products are registered and certified with SONCAP to apply online for the issuance of PAM stickers.

He advised importers whose products are registered and certified to SONCAP to apply online for the issuance of PAM stickers.