Adopt high-quality standards to boost competitiveness, business urged

INDUSTRY and Commerce Minister, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, has encouraged local businesses to adopt high-quality standards to boost competitiveness in local and international trade.

He visited the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) laboratory in Harare yesterday and praised the agency for its role in promoting local brands through certification, laboratory testing and calibration services.

Minister Ndlovu underlined the importance of quality standards in removing trade barriers and underpinning economic growth and stability.

He also urged SAZ to expand its testing and accreditation services to include global accreditation for the agro-value chain. Small and medium enterprises have called on the Government for assistance with SAZ certification, citing challenges in knowledge and finance.

These services are among the integral pillars that support domestic re-industrialisation and the National Quality Policy that was launched in 2021.

“Economic growth and stability are underpinned by implementing quality standards to remove trade barriers locally, regionally, in the African continent and globally,” said Minister Ndlovu.

“Our significant participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) requires organisations to have certified products and systems like ISO 9001 for international recognition and competitiveness.

“My ministry is committed to standardisation as a tool to bring about sustainable economic development and growth as part of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) pillars.”

He applauded the standards agency for having high-quality laboratory facilities, which testify to the fact that the association is well-equipped for this role.

“I am encouraging SAZ to expand and consider pre-shipment inspection as part of its future plans. My ministry is committed to supporting SAZ in capacity improvement in this regard,” said Minister Ndlovu.

He also commended SAZ management and staff for maintaining accreditation of local products saying this gives confidence and ensures global recognition of test reports and certifications done by Zimbabwe.

“It is through these efforts that we build a resilient economy, foster innovation and protect the well-being of our citizens.” —chronicle