The Experts of Ministries in charge of Industry recommend the revised ECOWAS Standard Harmonization Model (ECOSHAM), 58 draft ECOWAS Standards (ECOSTANDs) on textile value chain and a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for Inspection Certificates within the region for adoption

In the framework of the implementation of the ECOWAS Quality Policy (ECOQUAL), the ECOWAS Commission held a meeting of Experts of Ministries in charge of Industry to consider draft standards and instruments to ensure quality, reduce technical barriers to trade and facilitate access to market at regional, continental and international level.

The Industry Experts reviewed and validated the revised ECOWAS Standard Harmonization Model (ECOSHAM) which considers latest development and aligned with the African Standards Harmonization rules and procedures, 58 draft ECOWAS Standards (ECOSTANDs) on textile value chain aiming at ensuring quality and the well-being of the consumers of the region and a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for acceptance of Inspection Certificates aiming at facilitating cross-border trade and reducing time and cost for quality control.

At the end of the meeting, the Experts recommended the instruments for endorsement by the Ministers in charge of Trade and Industry and thanked the ECOWAS Commission for its coordinating and supporting role as well as for the level of commitment made towards deepening regional integration through Quality promotion, Standards development and intraregional trade.