CSA Group can help manufacturers access the Japanese hazardous locations market

The global market for equipment required for use in hazardous and potentially explosive environments (“Ex”) is expected to experience continued growth. A detailed study of the market by experts at Allied Market Research reveals that the industry is set to reach a value of $8.2 billion by 2022. This is possible with a projected CAGR of 9.3 per cent between 2016 and 2022. In spite of this, Japan has always presented significant challenges as an export destination for manufacturers, creating roadblocks to accessing the estimated $120 million hazardous locations (HazLoc) equipment market. But that is expected to change, as CSA Group can now issue approvals to help manufacturers access the Japanese HazLoc market.

A shift in the landscape

Historically, manufacturers wanting to export their products to Japan had only one choice in acquiring the necessary certification. It often took months (and sometimes years) for product approvals to be provided to customers based outside of Japan. This delay, coupled with limited insight into the progress or the national requirements for certifications, caused manufacturers considerable frustration. As a result of this significant barrier to trade and global export, many companies decided to abandon any plans of certifying their products for the Japanese market.

Despite these past challenges, the tide is now changing. CSA Group received recognition from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in October 2017, enabling it to independently issue certificates to Japanese requirements. The recognition is held at CSA Group’s U.K. location, where a large team of experienced engineers is qualified to work on Japanese approvals. This recognition represents a shift in the landscape of certification for Japan since it helps manufacturers enter this market with speed and transparency.

Faster time to market

CSA Group is committed to completing projects with speed-to-market in mind, and can achieve a process in weeks that normally takes months or years. This process relies on IECEx test data as the basis; therefore, it is possible to realize a project turnaround time much quicker than what manufacturers have historically experienced. In addition, CSA Group works with English versions of data, and will provide a certificate in both English and Japanese.

With this regulatory change in landscape, placing products on the Japanese Ex market is now a viable option — one that can offer fast and cost-effective access.

To learn more about getting your HazLoc products into the Japanese market, download a free whitepaper from CSA Group.

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