Question 1

How do I register a GS1 barcode in Saudi Arabia?

Accepted Answer

Register a GS1 barcode in Saudi Arabia by purchasing a GTIN through GST Saudi Arabia, the authorized GS1 partner. Sign up on the member portal, choose the number of barcodes you need, complete payment, and receive a 13-digit GTIN with EAN-13 check digit ready for product labeling and retail compliance.

Question 2

What is GS1 Sunrise 2027 and how does it affect Saudi businesses?

Accepted Answer

GS1 Sunrise 2027 is the global program transitioning retail point-of-sale systems from 1D EAN/UPC barcodes to 2D barcodes (QR codes with GS1 Digital Link) by the end of 2027. Saudi retailers, manufacturers, and food producers should begin labeling products with 2D barcodes now to meet the deadline. GST helps KSA businesses with the transition, including label printing, scanner upgrades, and GS1 Digital Link encoding.

Question 3

What is the difference between GTIN, EAN, and UPC?

Accepted Answer

GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is the umbrella standard for product identification. EAN-13 is the 13-digit GTIN format used in Europe, the Middle East, and most of the world including Saudi Arabia. UPC-A is the 12-digit GTIN format used primarily in North America. All are GS1 standards and interchangeable in modern point-of-sale systems.

Question 4

Does GST provide halal traceability solutions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. GST offers halal verification and food traceability solutions using GS1 Digital Link standards, allowing consumers in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Oman to scan a single 2D barcode to verify halal certification, batch information, and supply-chain origin. The system integrates with SFDA and other regional regulators.

Question 5

Is GST an authorized partner of Zebra and Honeywell?

Accepted Answer

Yes. GST Saudi Arabia is an authorized partner of both Zebra Technologies and Honeywell, supplying barcode printers, mobile scanners, RFID readers, and ruggedized industrial devices to manufacturers, warehouses, retailers, and government agencies across KSA, UAE, and Oman.

Question 6

What is MES and SIRI alignment?

Accepted Answer

MES (Manufacturing Execution System) is software that monitors and controls production on the factory floor. SIRI (Smart Industry Readiness Index) is a globally accepted framework that assesses a manufacturer's Industry 4.0 maturity across Process, Technology, and Organization. GST helps Saudi factories align MES implementations with SIRI to support Vision 2030 industrial goals.