Does your company handle controlled chemicals? Here's what you need to know about the Certificate of Exemption.

What substances are controlled?

Some of the essential chemical substances regulated in Colombia include:

• Acetone

• Ethyl ether

• Hydrochloric acid

• Sulfuric acid

• Butanol

• Methanol

• Potassium permanganate

• Potassium manganate

• Toluene

• Ammonia

These substances are commonly used in the manufacturing processes of paints, adhesives, cleaning products, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, plastics, among others.

Who must apply for it?

This certificate must be obtained by individuals or legal entities that:

• Require the use of essential chemical substances (such as acetone, hydrochloric acid, potassium permanganate, among others) in their industrial or commercial processes.

• Engage in activities regulated by the National Narcotics Fund (Fondo Nacional de Estupefacientes).

• Are in the process of obtaining licenses for the manufacture of medicines, cosmetics, cleaning products, or agrochemicals involving these substances.

The CCITE is issued under three modalities:

• First-time application: Granted prior to the start of handling controlled substances and chemical products, or when the initial CCITE has expired.

• Renewal: Granted when continued handling of the controlled substances and products is required under the same conditions established in the current CCITE.

• Replacement: Granted when one or more conditions in the current CCITE need to be modified or replaced, or in case of damage, loss, or theft of the certificate..

How to apply?

To formally apply for a CCITE, the request must be created and submitted through the SICOQ platform, along with payment of the established fee. Then, within a maximum period of one (1) month from the submission of the request via the platform, the applicant must submit a signed letter from the legal representative (for legal entities) or from the individual applicant or their duly authorized representatives. This communication must demonstrate compliance with the general, technical, and specific requirements.

Certificate Validity.

The Certificate of No Report has a validity of up to five (5) years. It is important to renew it before its expiration if activities involving the use of controlled substances are to continue, or if the conditions under which it was granted change.

Consequences of Non-Compliance.

Operating without this certificate or misusing controlled chemical substances may result in administrative sanctions, criminal investigations, and the suspension or cancellation of licenses.

How Can We Help You?

At Forvis Mazars, we have professionals specialized in compliance with this requirement. We recommend that companies using chemical products in their production processes regularly review the list of controlled substances published by the National Government and verify the validity of their certificates. Additionally, it is advisable to internally document the controls related to the use, storage, and transportation of these substances to mitigate regulatory risks.

If you require support or advice in obtaining or renewing the Certificate of No Report, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is prepared to guide you through the entire regulatory compliance process.