Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) Strengthens Trade Collaborations Through Mutual Recognition Agreements 

The Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) reiterated its commitment to collaborating with National Standards Bodies regionally and internationally to facilitate Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs). These MRAs aim to streamline the acceptance of Zambian products and services in both regional and international markets.

In a statement issued  On September 22, 2023 by Nzali Chella, Senior Marketing and Communications Officer of the Zambia Bureau of Standards, it was highlighted that these Mutual Recognition Agreements are essential for recognizing certification marks and test certificates. They simplify and speed up the process of trading products and services and gaining access to markets. 

This collaboration between ZABS and National Standards Bodies from countries like China, Turkey, Zimbabwe, and the Democratic Republic of Congo emphasizes the importance of reducing technical trade barriers and creating an environment that encourages more trade and investment.

Nathan Sing’ambwa, the Executive Director of ZABS, emphasized ZABS’s dedication to working closely with National Standards Bodies from these countries. The goal is to establish mechanisms that enable the mutual recognition of test certificates and certification marks for various products and services. This initiative is poised to enhance confidence in the quality of traded goods and services between Zambia and these partner countries.

These bilateral meetings took place on the sidelines of the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) General Assembly in Brisbane, Australia. The assembly, themed “Meeting Global Needs,” placed a strong focus on the role of standards in diverse fields, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, climate change, cleaner energy, food security, and anti-corruption. ZABS, as a corresponding member of ISO, was represented by its Executive Director, Mr. Nathan Sing’ambwa, Director of Technical Services Mrs. Belinda Kancheya, and Standards Officer Mr. Choolwe Mutelo.

National Standards Bodies from countries such as China (SAC), Turkey, Zimbabwe (SAZ), and the Democratic Republic of Congo (OCC) have expressed their commitment to implementing these agreements once they are signed. This collaborative effort aligns with the objectives of the New Dawn Government and is expected to contribute to increased economic trade and investment.