Zambia–China Metrology Pact to Improve Product Quality
Zambia has taken a significant step towards strengthening measurement standards and quality assurance after the Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) and the National Institute of Metrology (NIM) of the People’s Republic of China signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen cooperation in metrology.
The MoU was signed by ZMA Executive Director Humphrey Nkobeni and NIM Director General Dr Li Wentao, marking the start of a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing technical capacity, scientific research and measurement accuracy.
NIM, China’s highest national metrology institution operating under the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), is responsible for maintaining national measurement standards, supporting industrial innovation and safeguarding consumer protection through accurate and reliable measurements.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by senior officials from both countries, including Mr Guo Huanxin, Director General of the Department of Metrology under SAMR.
Mr Guo said the agreement formally adds metrology to the list of strategic areas of cooperation between Zambia and China, noting that it will promote practical collaboration in areas such as food safety, capacity building, scientific research and international metrology comparisons.
ZMA Board Chairperson Musamala Josia Nyirongo welcomed the partnership, describing SAMR and NIM as global leaders in metrology.
He said the cooperation would enhance measurement accuracy, strengthen consumer protection and support fair trade, while reaffirming ZMA’s commitment to effective implementation of the agreement.
Mr Nkobeni said the MoU is of strategic importance to Zambia, providing a structured framework for technical cooperation, knowledge exchange and capacity development.
He noted that the partnership is expected to improve traceability to international measurement standards and enhance the quality of calibration, testing and certification services for industry and the public.
Dr Li Wentao said the agreement would deepen cooperation between the two institutions and promote mutual development in metrology.
The MoU will facilitate collaboration in metrology research, calibration services, testing, certification and technical capacity development, contributing to industrial advancement, trade facilitation, innovation and the strengthening of quality infrastructure in both Zambia and China.
