BSI extends agreement with Standardization Administration of China

14 June 2019

Strengthening UK-China trade as both countries continue to work together on standards in areas of mutual interest

BSI, the UK National Standards Body appointed by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, has renewed its agreement with China’s Standardization Administration of China (SAC) on the recognition of voluntary standards for business and industry.  This Memorandum of Understanding will further strengthen the important role standards play in underpinning trade between the UK and China.

The agreement will see the UK and China continue to collaborate on the development and implementation of common international standards, as well as identifying areas that the two countries can partner to shape standards that support bilateral trade and investment opportunities.  With both countries using common international standards, and if not available recognizing respective national standards, it makes it easier for UK and Chinese companies to conduct business without making expensive alterations to their goods and services. Furthermore, it strengthens UK-China trade relations as standards help facilitate market access, saving time and money, and delivering real competitive advantage.

Dr Scott Steedman, Director of Standards at BSI said, “The new agreement underlines the commitment of the UK and China to using common standards to accelerate trade and investment between our two countries and around the world.  As the UK seeks to diversify its global exports, agreements like these are of vital importance to secure the market conditions for export growth.”

BSI has had a strong relationship with SAC for over fifteen years. This week also sees the fourth meeting of the UK China Standardization Cooperation Commission in Manchester.  The event will focus on progress made in technical working groups focussed on smart cities, graphene and remanufacturing.  Discussions will continue on how standards can play a role to support the Belt and Road Initiative and how the UK can input into China’s new Standardization 2035 strategy.

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