NSS meeting aims to bolster standardization of country’s goods and services

A two-day consultation that aims to aid in the development of Dominica’s National Standardization Strategy (NSS) got underway at the Fort Young Hotel on Wednesday.

Officer in Charge of the Bureau of Standards Keisha Joseph who was addressing the opening ceremony said this strategy is part of a regional project supported by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and implemented by the CARICOM Regional Organization for Standards and Quality (CROSQ).

“This strategy will strengthen our national quality infrastructure and will support national development, consumer protection, and innovation,” she said.

According to her, the objectives of this consultation are to build awareness of the role and the impact of standards, divide its research findings gathered from stakeholders, and set national priorities for standards development.

Joseph encouraged active participation, discussions, and sharing of ideas and challenges throughout this consultation.

“It is very important that you collaborate and receive input from all sectors to make this a success,” she stated.

Meanwhile, Dominica’s Ambassador to CARICOM His Excellency Dr. Gerard Jean-Jacques said the role that standards play in the development of any nation cannot be over-emphasized.

In terms of the foods individuals consume in their daily lives, the products used, services provided to ensure their well-being, and the quality of manufactured goods that are exported, he noted, “the reality is, in today’s increasingly interconnected and competitive world standards is a prerequisite that drives competitiveness, enhances the appeal of products and services and facilitates sustainable growth to any economy.”

“Today’s gathering therefore underscores the importance of our collective efforts across every sector towards the strengthening of our economic base and fostering socio-economic development through improved standards, not only locally but across the Caribbean region,” he indicated.

Dr. Jean-Jacques asserted that Dominica, as a member of CARICOM, is also part of an active network, an expanded framework that has placed significant emphasis on standards over the years.