According to a recent annual report submitted by the Egyptian Organization for Standardization and Quality, the standards body continues to benefit from a successful relationship with the standards organization ASTM International.   

The Egyptian Organization for Standardization and Quality (EOS) is the competent and official body responsible for standardization activities, quality and industrial metrology aimed at increasing the competitiveness of Egyptian products in the international and regional markets along with protection of consumers and the environment.

EOS and ASTM International began their partnership when they signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in 2002. Since then, EOS has adapted or referenced hundreds of ASTM International standards. According to the latest report, more than 125 ASTM standards were used as references for the development of Egypt national standards over the past year. The standards referenced cover a wide range of industry sectors, including metals, petroleum, cement and concrete, building construction and plastics.

EOS has also taken advantage of ASTM training courses and virtual meetings to participate in the standards development activities of the organization. More than 100 individuals from Egypt are members of ASTM International, including many student members.

“Standardization plays an important role in a country’s economy, which has led EOS to be open to the harmonization of Egyptian standards with their international counterparts, so that Egyptian products can compete in foreign markets and cope with international competition,” says Dr. Hany Barakat, chairman of the Egyptian Organization for Standardization and Quality. “The MOU between ASTM and EOS helps support the development of Egyptian standards.”

Initiated in 2001, ASTM International's MOU program promotes communication between ASTM International and national standards bodies worldwide, fostering awareness of the standardization systems of all parties involved. The purpose of the program is to increase greater worldwide participation in the ASTM standards development process and facilitate the development of national standards that will aid health, safety, and environmental and economic conditions. More information on the MOU program can be found on the ASTM International Web site (www.astm.org/GLOBAL).

Release #8456/Jan2010