Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
Zimbabwe’s target of quality goods and services is on track as over 50 companies have this year implemented International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) systems.
As Zimbabwe this Thursday celebrated the World Standards Day, commitment by industry and commerce to comply with international standards emerged as a key issue.
Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) Acting Director General, Mr Cosmus Mukozi revealed Zimbabwe’s commitment to ensure globally accepted goods and services as more firms implement the required standards.
“Off late, there is that appetite for the local firms to adapt to those standards that are critical in ensuring that there is compliance. For example, in the case of compliance, over 50 firms have adapted to the stipulated requirements, an indication of their commitment to comply with the regulatory authority stance in stimulating growth and focus on those aspects that creates confidence in as much as their production systems are concerned,” he said.
Global standards regulators have reaffirmed commitment to work with Zimbabwe on ensuring adherence to standards.
“Basically, the issue is on what needs to be done to prepare Zimbabwe in complying with standards and this lies with the needs by local companies to increase the value of their returns by focusing on compliance. In that regard, we are working with SAZ to see to it that such mechanisms become a reality and they unlock more value in terms of sustainable business practices,” said ISO’s secretary general, Mr Sergio Mujica.
The Minister of Industry and Commerce, Honourable Mangaliso Ndlovu highlighted the importance of stamping out counterfeit products and services flooding the local markets to ensure good standards.
“The impact of the fake goods and services in the domestic markets is a key cause for concern and we are working to ensure that there is enforcement by the regulatory authorities to ensure that our markets have required products in line with globally acceptable standards,” said the Minister.
Compliance to quality goods and services is also expected to bolster Zimbabwe’s agenda towards a self-sufficiency economy.
