MoE, SGS Gulf ink deal to enhance product quality

Sharjah 24 – WAM: The Ministry of Economy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SGS Gulf Limited to strengthen cooperation in monitoring the quality of food and consumer products in UAE markets. The agreement aims to ensure compliance with high safety standards and improve consumer protection across the country.

Strengthening consumer confidence and market oversight

The MoU focuses on verifying consumer complaints, promoting sound business practices, and creating a safe purchasing environment for consumers.

Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, and Geraldine Picaud, CEO of SGS Gulf Limited, signed the agreement in the presence of Swiss Ambassador Arthur Mattli and senior SGS officials.

Al Saleh emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing collaboration with public and private entities to build a flexible and effective consumer protection system, furthering the competitiveness of the UAE’s business and trade environment.

Joint awareness programmes and consumer education

The MoU outlines plans to launch joint awareness initiatives across key industries, including food and beverages, cosmetics, and other consumer products. These programmes aim to ensure product quality and support domestic trade growth across all seven emirates.

Educational workshops will also be held at universities and schools to promote a culture of product safety awareness and healthier consumer habits.

Product testing and complaint verification

At the Ministry’s request, SGS will manage the verification and inspection of consumer complaints under its remit. This will involve random sampling and lab testing of products such as baby food, cosmetics, and spare parts to ensure they meet international safety standards. Testing will be carried out using SGS's advanced laboratories and technology.

Boosting UAE exports and global competitiveness

The agreement will also support UAE-made products in accessing international markets by simplifying export procedures and helping companies meet global certification requirements.

This collaboration is expected to significantly benefit small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by enhancing their global expansion efforts and improving the overall competitiveness of the national economy.