Saudi Arabia: Environmental Performance Efficiency Label for the Technical Regulation of Paints and Varnishes

The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) has issued a new circular regarding the Technical Regulation for Paints (Dyes) and Varnishes. This update introduces mandatory environmental performance requirements for specific products entering the Saudi market.

New Requirement: Products listed under Annex (1) of the Technical Regulation must now obtain an Environmental Performance Efficiency Label.

Implementation Timeline

Scope of Included Products

The Paints and Varnishes used in the residential, commercial buildings and public utilities, including the following product categories, as defined in Annex (1) of the Technical Regulation, are subject to the new Environmental Performance Efficiency Labelling requirements:

1) Emulsion Paints

• Interior matt paints and ceiling dyes

• Surface layer paints designed to use in one layer or multiple primers

• Other water-based paints

2) Oil paints and varnishes 

Environmental Performance Efficiency Requirements

The classification and labelling are determined based on the following criteria for the ready-to-use product:

1. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

To qualify for the efficiency labels, products must meet strict maximum limits in accordance with SASO GSO ISO 11890-1 and SASO GSO 11890-2.

2. Heavy Metal Concentration Limits

The concentration of "soluble" metals must not exceed the maximum limits per SASO GSO ISO 3856-7, SASO GSO ISO 3856-1, SASO GSO ISO 3856-4, SASO GSO ISO 3856-5, SASO GSO ISO 2590, SASO GSO ISO 3856-3.

3. Prohibited Substances

The regulation strictly prohibits the use of certain hazardous chemicals in the formulation of products listed in the scope:

• Formaldehyde as per ASTM D 6191.

• Aromatic Hydrocarbons as per ASTM D 3257.

• Halogenated Hydrocarbons as per ASTM D 4457.

Action Required for Suppliers and CABs

SASO has directed all Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) to notify their clients of these changes.

To ensure a smooth transition and avoid market disruptions, SANTIQ recommends the following:

1. Scope Verification: Confirm if your paint or varnish products are listed under Annex (1) of the relevant Technical Regulation.

2. Early Adoption: Utilize the current voluntary period to apply for the Environmental Performance Efficiency Label.

3. Documentation: Ensure all technical files are updated to reflect environmental performance standards in alignment with SASO requirements.

How SANTIQ Can Assist
SANTIQ helps you comply with SASO’s new paint and varnish regulation by confirming scope, assessing gaps, arranging required testing, preparing technical documentation, and managing Environmental Performance Efficiency Label applications—ensuring a smooth transition before the October 2026 deadline.