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In-Depth Analysis: Saudi Arabia's Type-C Interface Regulations Are Now in Effect—How Can Enterprises Ensure Their Products Successfully Enter the Saudi Market?

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LCS

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Post time:

2026-01-27

The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) recently issued a critical regulatory update, mandating the gradual universal adoption of USB Type-C interfaces for electronic devices. This regulation will enter its first phase of mandatory enforcement on January 1, 2026, followed by an expanded second phase on April 1, 2026. For electronics companies planning to enter or already operating in the Saudi Arabian market, understanding and complying with these new rules is paramount to ensuring product conformity and avoiding market access barriers. This article provides a clear interpretation and actionable guide.

1. Core regulations

The core of this regulation is to enhance the interoperability and user experience of electronic devices, and promote sustainable development. All electronic products included in the regulatory scope must meet the following key requirements:

Mandatory adoption of USB Type-C interface: This is the most direct requirement of the regulations.

According to the latest international standards, product testing and certification must be strictly carried out in accordance with SASO IEC 62680-1-2:2023 and SASO IEC 62680-1-3:2023, two official technical standards of Saudi Arabia.

Product certification report: A formal testing report must be submitted, which clearly proves that the product fully meets the requirements of the above two standards in terms of Type-C charging port and power transmission capability.

Market access linkage: Failure to pass specified standard tests or provide product reports that are not qualified will directly result in the product being unable to obtain market access permission in Saudi Arabia.

2-Stage Execution Plan

SASO will divide the implementation of this regulation into two stages to give the market sufficient transition and adaptation time. Enterprises need to have a clear understanding of the scope and timeline of each stage:

Phase 1: Effective (January 1, 2026)

This stage has covered a range of high-frequency consumer electronics products. If you produce or sell the following equipment, please make sure to confirm that the product has completed compliance testing and obtained a report:

Communication and Mobile Devices: Mobile Phones

Portable Computing and Entertainment: Tablets, E-readers, Portable Video Game Console

Audiovisual entertainment: Digital cameras, speakers, and portable speakers

Peripheral accessories: Keyboards, Computer Cursors/Mouse

Navigation and Network: Portable Navigation Systems, Wireless Routers

Phase 2: Upcoming (April 1, 2026)

At this stage, the regulatory scope will be further expanded, significantly increasing product categories such as laptops. This means that all portable computers planned to be launched in Saudi Arabia after April 1, 2026, must meet the regulatory requirements for Type-C interfaces.

【 Important Notice 】 SASO is expected to release a more detailed product list and specific technical specifications before the start of this phase.

 

Three stage enterprise action guide execution plan

Faced with regulations that are about to come into full effect, companies should take the following measures to ensure smooth product access and sales:

Immediately evaluate the product line: Sort out all the electronic products you are currently selling or planning to sell in the Saudi market. Compare them with the applicable product scope of the first and second stages.

Confirm compliance of existing products: For the first stage products already sold in the market, please check if they have been tested according to SASO IEC 62680-1-2:2023 and SASO IEC 62680-1-3:2023 standards and have obtained a qualified report.

R&D and design optimization: For new products or planned updates, it is necessary to consider the Type-C interface and its related power transmission standards at the beginning of product design. Ensure that the design meets SASO requirements.

Choose an authoritative testing institution: Choose a third-party testing laboratory with SASO accredited qualifications to conduct product testing. This ensures the authority and validity of the test results.

Pay close attention to official information: SASO is the party that formulates and enforces regulations. Regularly visit the SASO official website or subscribe to relevant industry information to obtain the latest updates on specific product requirements and details for the second phase.

Collaborate with the supply chain: If your product involves multiple suppliers, ensure that the entire supply chain has sufficient understanding of Saudi Type-C interface regulations and works together to achieve compliance standards.

Reserve sufficient time: Product testing, report application, and market access review all require time. Please reserve sufficient time to avoid affecting the product launch plan due to delays.

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