The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO), in collaboration with the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), has officially introduced a new unified technical standard: **SASO 3114/2026**. This standard replaces the legacy *SASO-CITC-GEN-002* requirements for information and telecommunications (ICT) hardware entering the Saudi market.
Transition Period and Expiration Deadlines
To ensure an orderly migration, regulators have established a clear transition timeline:
- November 1, 2026: All new ICT products entering Saudi Arabia must comply with **SASO 3114/2026** to obtain Product Certificates of Conformity (PCoC) or Shipment Certificates of Conformity (SCoC) via the SABER portal.
- March 31, 2027: All legacy certificates issued under the older *SASO-CITC-GEN-002* standard will be declared void, requiring manufacturers to re-certify their hardware models.
Laptop USB-C Charging Port Mandate Effective
Additionally, the second phase of the unified charging port directive became active on **April 1, 2026**, making USB Type-C interface mandatory for all laptops sold in the Kingdom. SASO and CST have emphasized that non-compliant devices will face immediate suspension of conformity certificates and custom clearance rejections.
Action Checklist for SABER Users:
- Audit Existing Certificates: Identify any active PCoC files registered under the older CITC standard and prepare for re-certification.
- Update Test Reports: Ensure technical construction files reference the parameters required by the new SASO 3114/2026 standard.
- Verify Local Representatives: Registrations on the SABER portal require a legally established Saudi importer to hold the certificates.
HertzWeg Insight:
"Replacing the old CITC-GEN-002 standard is a major administrative rewrite. Since SABER checks HS codes automatically, manufacturers who fail to update their PCoCs before March 2027 will see their shipments blocked. We recommend pre-auditing your KSA certificates immediately."
For more details on Saudi compliance, read our Saudi Arabia CST Type Approval Guide or check out our KSA Market Clearance Page.