The Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS) says the new international conformity assessment system ISO 17065 has been designed to enhance the quality and global appeal of Malawian products.
The new scheme , based on the ISO 17065 standard, is being touted as a critical pathway for local producers to gain a competitive edge in regional and international markets by ensuring their goods meet globally recognized benchmarks.
Speaking at a stakeholder meeting in Mzuzu, Gloria Chaonamwene Mereka, Director of Quality Assurance at MBS, explained that the system will officially align local certification processes with international requirements.
“This new framework will empower our certification body to rigorously assess products against international standards,”said Mereka.
She also added that the alignment is crucial for building trust with foreign buyers and giving Malawian products the competitive advantage they need to succeed beyond borders
Mereka has therefore urged Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to take advantage of a complementary scheme, the Eco-Mark certification, which recognizes and promotes environmentally sustainable products and manufacturing processes.
Lusungu Mthinda, Production Manager at Kwithu Kitchens, endorsed the scheme, stating it is essential for Malawian producers to adopt these standards.
“Adhering to international standards gives our SMEs the extra mile they need to not just enter, but to compete effectively on the world stage.” said Mthinda.
The rollout of the new certification system will initially focus on key industry sectors, including, bottled drinking water, honey, coffee, macadamia nuts, soya beans, groundnuts, and fisheries.