Saudi Arabia Charger Mandate: USB Type-C for Laptops & Electronics

In an effort to reduce electronic waste and improve user convenience, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has completed the next phase of its charger harmonization plan. Jointly enforced by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) and the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), this regulation expands charger rules. All laptops imported into the country must now utilize the **Saudi Arabia USB Type-C standard**.

Scope and Phased Enforcement

The charger standardization initiative has been rolled out in two distinct stages:

• Phase 1 (Active): Handheld mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, e-readers, portable video game consoles, and wireless headphones.
• Phase 2 (Newly Enforced): Laptop computers and portable PC terminals. All shipments arriving at Saudi ports must conform to this requirement.

Technical Specifications for Importers

To secure product clearance through the SABER portal and obtain the required certificates, manufacturers must demonstrate compliance with the following technical parameters:

• Standard Port Integration: Devices must feature a physical USB Type-C receptacle conforming to IEC 62680-1-3.
• USB Power Delivery (PD): Laptops requiring charging capacities exceeding 15W must support the USB PD protocol (IEC 62680-1-2) to ensure charging interoperability with third-party power adapters.
• SASO Safety Verification: Power adapters packaged with the device must possess a valid **SASO safety certification KSA** and conform to IEC 62368-1.

Securing CST and SABER Approvals

During the **KSA wireless type approval** filing on the CST system, engineers will verify that the charger ports conform to the new technical specifications. Additionally, the local importer must upload product test reports showing compliance to the SABER portal to secure the Certificate of Conformity (CoC) needed for customs release.

Conclusion: Proactive Compliance Audits Prevent Holds

The **CST charging port mandate** represents a major change for laptop manufacturers active in the Middle East. Performing design and regulatory gap audits early in the product lifecycle prevents costly shipping holds at entry ports.

HertzWeg's regulatory team provides full compliance management for Saudi Arabia, including CST type approval filings, SASO certification coordination, and SABER portal submissions.