Product Listing Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Product Listing Policy is to ensure that all products listed on the ATEX Africa platform comply with applicable laws, meet quality and safety standards, and contribute to the integrity, reliability, and professionalism of trade on the platform. This policy protects buyers and sellers, ensures transparency, and promotes fair and ethical trade practices across the continent.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all suppliers, manufacturers, agents, and trading companies ("Vendors") listing products on the ATEX Africa platform. It governs the eligibility, content, quality, and compliance of product listings for all categories, including but not limited to:

1. Food & Beverages
2. Agricultural Inputs (Fertilizers, Seeds, Agrochemicals)
3. Grains & Cereals
4. Energy (Oil & Gas)
5. Consumer Goods
6. Industrial Goods
7. Other categories as determined by ATEX

3. General Principles

All products listed on the ATEX platform must:

1. Be legal for trade under applicable international, regional, and local laws
2. Comply with the ATEX code of conduct, Afreximbank policies, and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) regulations
3. Be listed in good faith and with the intention to transact

4. Product Eligibility Criteria

A product may only be listed if it meets all of the following:

4.1. Legality

1. The product must be allowed for import/export in both the seller’s and buyer’s countries.
2. Prohibited items, including counterfeit, illegal, or embargoed goods, are strictly forbidden.

4.2. Certification & Standards

1. The product must meet relevant quality and safety certifications recognized in Africa or globally (e.g., ISO, Codex Alimentarius, SGS, ECOWAS, COMESA standards).
2. Vendors may be required to upload valid documents such as health certificates, phytosanitary certificates, conformity certificates, or product analysis reports.

4.3. Authenticity

1. All listings must accurately reflect the product being sold. Misrepresentation or false advertising is not tolerated.
2. Brand names may only be used with authorization.

5. Listing Content Guidelines

All product listings must include the following:

5.1. Basic Information

1. Product name (clear and descriptive)
2. Product category
3. HS Code (where applicable)
4. Origin of product

5.2. Specifications

1. Technical details (e.g., size, weight, grade, purity, packaging format)
2. Minimum order quantity (MOQ)
3. Available volume
4. Shelf life (if applicable)

5.3. Visuals

1. High-quality images of the product and packaging
2. Company logo and certifications (if applicable)

5.4. Pricing and Terms

1. Price per unit or metric ton (can be “Indicative” if subject to confirmation)
2. Payment terms (LC, cash in advance, etc.)
3. Lead time and shipping terms (e.g., FOB, CIF)

6. Vendor Responsibilities

Vendors are responsible for:

1. Ensuring all product information is truthful, accurate, and updated
2. Maintaining the availability and quality of listed products
3. Responding promptly to buyer inquiries and requests for documentation
4. Complying with all applicable customs, health, and trade laws in their jurisdiction

Failure to meet these obligations may result in suspension or removal from the platform.

7. Prohibited Products

ATEX strictly prohibits the listing of the following:

1. Counterfeit or unlicensed goods
2. Hazardous chemicals not approved for trade
3. Weapons, narcotics, or items on international sanctions lists
4. Expired food or medical products
5. Products that infringe on intellectual property rights

8. Listing Review and Moderation

1. All listings are subject to review by the ATEX Compliance and Product Management team
2. ATEX reserves the right to remove, suspend, or request edits on any listing that does not meet policy requirements
3. Repeated violations may result in account suspension or termination

9. Product Updates and De-listing

Vendors are expected to:

1. Regularly update stock levels and pricing
2. Remove discontinued or out-of-stock items within 5 business days
3. Notify ATEX of any product recall or quality issues immediately

10. Dispute Resolution

In the case of disputes regarding listed products (e.g., quality claims, delivery discrepancies), ATEX may intervene as a neutral party and support resolution in accordance with platform rules and applicable trade law.

11. Policy Updates

ATEX reserves the right to update this Product Listing Policy periodically. Vendors will be notified in advance of material changes. Continued use of the platform after updates implies acceptance of the revised policy.