Navigating the Small Appliances Market in Latin America

By Glicon Eltink – LATAM business manager, UL Solutions

As businesses expand their reach into international markets, navigating the regulatory landscapes can be daunting. This is especially true in Latin America, where each country has specific certification requirements for small appliances. At UL Solutions, we offer a streamlined support to help customers demonstrate compliance with the necessary standards across Latin America.

The small appliances market in Latin America

The small appliances market in Latin America is experiencing substantial growth, driven by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes and changing consumer lifestyles. According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the overall small appliances market in Latin America is projected to reach approximately $64.21 billion (USD) by 2025 and $81.95 billion (USD) by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5% during the forecast period (2025-2030).¹

Unified regional approach

In Latin America, small appliances are subject to specific certification marks for safety and efficiency. Understanding these certification requirements is crucial if you’re looking to enter markets in Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador or Chile. Our unified regional approach simplifies the process so businesses can navigate the complexities of compliance with ease.

Country-specific certifications

Brazil: The largest small appliances market in Latin America, expected to reach an estimated $10.77 billion (USD) in 2025.² We provide INMETRO certification for products that meet the requirements and comply with local safety and energy efficiency standards. Our services include accepting IEC reports from accredited laboratories and offering guidance on local representative inspections.

Mexico: The second-largest small appliances market in Latin America, estimated at $6 billion (USD) in 2025.³ NOM mark certification is essential for small appliances sold in Mexico. We provide insights into applicable regulations and safety standards under Secretariat of Commerce and Industrial Development (SCFI, now known as the Secretariat of Economy) and energy efficiency requirements.

Argentina: Our team conducts certification for Argentina, leveraging expertise in electrical safety regulations for home appliances, as outlined in the recently published Resolution 16/2025, which now requires the use of a QR code attached to the product.

Ecuador: For the INEN mark, we provide testing to RTE INEN standards for various electric appliances, from hair care products to kitchen machines.

Chile: For small appliances sold in Chile, we assist customers in obtaining the SEC mark and provide insights on compliance with electrical safety requirements and energy efficiency standards.

Our services

At UL Solutions, we offer a comprehensive suite of services to support customers through the certification journey, including:

Testing and certification: We can facilitate testing under various schemes, offering services such as type testing with follow-up evaluations at the point of sale or factory, depending on the chosen certification scheme.

Training and workshops: We conduct training sessions aimed at educating customers about the specific requirements and regulations pertaining to their products in the Latin American market.

Monitoring and compliance: Our experts deliver advisory support on the certifications essential for each target market, empowering customers to strategically plan their market entry. With over 100 new regulations taking effect each month, staying informed is crucial. The UL Solutions Global Compliance Management (GCM) software suite provides you with immediate access to real-time regulatory updates specific to your products and markets. You gain a comprehensive view of your portfolio and receive expert guidance to effectively manage risk, maintain ongoing compliance and confidently prepare for future success. Post-certification, we offer ongoing support to evaluate continuous compliance with changing regulations, helping customers stay ahead in a dynamic market.

Why UL Solutions

With extensive knowledge of local regulations and certification processes, our team is equipped to help customers demonstrate compliance to regulations and standards in Latin American markets.

Our unified approach can help reduce the time and resources required for certification, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations. We understand the needs of global customers and tailor our services to help meet their specific demands for compliance with local laws.

Expanding into Latin America presents exciting opportunities for growth. Working with UL Solutions can help simplify certification processes necessary for Latin American market access.

References

1. Mordor Intelligence. Latin America Home Appliances Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025-2030). Source: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/latin-america-home-appliances-market-industry
2. Statista. Small Appliances Brazil. Source: https://www.statista.com/outlook/cmo/household-appliances/small-appliances/brazil
3. Statista. Small Appliances Mexico. Source: https://www.statista.com/outlook/cmo/household-appliances/small-appliances/mexico