Israel actively participates in international trade while maintaining its own unique certification requirements. For foreign companies, it is crucial to understand how local standards align with international regulations, when an international certificate can be recognized in Israel without additional testing, and when a full certification process is required.  

Israel’s International Integration  

Israel is a member of key international organizations:

• ISO (International Organization for Standardization) — international standards for quality and safety;
• IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) — standards for electrical and electronic products;
• Codex Alimentarius — international food safety standards.

Thanks to this, many Israeli standards are harmonized with international ones. However, in some cases, Israel introduces additional requirements based on national interests, climate conditions, or market specifics.
Main Points of Convergence

• Electrical and Electronic Equipment

Most standards are based on IEC, but Israel may require extra tests to confirm resilience to local conditions (e.g., high humidity or temperature).

• Quality Management Systems

Israel recognizes international certifications such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and others. These documents significantly accelerate local certification.

• Food and Beverages

Safety requirements generally match international standards, but there are mandatory local labeling rules, including ingredient lists in Hebrew and compliance with kosher regulations for certain categories.

• Medical Devices and Pharmaceuticals

Israel relies on CE (EU) and FDA (US) certifications. However, additional registration with the Israeli Ministry of Health may still be required.
Main Differences

• Labeling: Hebrew information is mandatory. International certificates do not exempt companies from this rule.
• Mandatory Local Certification: Even if products are ISO or CE certified, approval by the Standards Institution of Israel (SII) is often required.
• Import Inspections: Foreign certificates may not always be accepted at customs, which can delay imports.
• Industry Specifics: In medicine and pharmaceuticals, Israel requires its own registrations; in construction — unique national standards.

How to Simplify the Process for Foreign Companies

1. Verify whether your certificates are recognized in Israel.
2. Prepare documentation in both English and Hebrew.
3. Consult experts familiar with local procedures.
4. Plan certification in parallel with your market entry strategy.

Conclusion 

Israeli standards are largely based on international norms but maintain unique national characteristics. Understanding convergence points and differences helps companies avoid unnecessary costs and accelerate market entry.
WorldWideBridge supports clients at every stage: analyzing international certificates, identifying which are recognized in Israel and which require additional approval, and managing the entire process from start to finish.