The Eswatini Standards Authority (ESWASA) recently represented Eswatini at the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) Annual Meeting 2026 in Paris, France. The meeting, themed ‘Building trust in a changing world,’ brought together representatives from business, government, civil society, and national standards bodies. ESWASA's Executive Committee, led by Executive Director Ncamiso Mhalanga, participated in the event. The meeting discussed various topics, including resilient trade, cybersecurity, and climate change.
The ISO Annual Meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation and explore how International Standards can support trade and sustainable development. The Eswatini delegation participated in the ISO General Assembly, technical sessions, and bilateral engagements. ISO President Dr. Khaled Soufi opened the General Assembly, emphasizing the importance of building trust through cooperation and shared endeavour. He encouraged the ISO community to carry forward the collaborative spirit from the Paris meeting.
The meeting's discussions highlighted the significance of trust in a changing world. On the first day, Dr. Soufi stressed that trust must be built, proven, and sustained. AFNOR President Guy Maugis and Minister Delegate for Francophonie Éléonore Caroit welcomed delegates, emphasizing the importance of countries bringing knowledge and ambitions to a common table to create trust.
The second day's sessions focused on resilient global trade, cybersecurity, women’s leadership, and nature’s role in business. Discussions highlighted how healthy ecosystems contribute to resilient economies, supply chains, and communities. Young professionals exchanged experiences, and partnerships were strengthened. The ISO Village showcased digital tools transforming standards development.
On the third day, discussions centered on digital transformation, quality, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing. The DigitalHub presented practical lessons and new tools. Delegates also discussed the new ISO 9001 and how quality builds confidence and long-term value. World Trade Organisation Deputy Director-General Jean-Marie Paugam emphasized that predictability, cooperation, and International Standards help build trust across borders and support global trade.
ESWASA executives also attended the 60th meeting of the ISO Committee on Developing Country Matters (ISO/DEVCO). The meeting linked priorities such as trade, food safety, climate change, and AI with International Standards and highlighted the Action Plan for Developing Countries as ISO’s framework for capacity building. ESWASA noted that the DEVCO meeting is crucial for developing countries, including Eswatini, as it provides capacity building, technical assistance, and training for standards development and adoption.
ESWASA stated that participation at the ISO Annual Meeting aligns with its mandate to promote standardisation, quality, and competitiveness in Eswatini. The outcomes of the meeting have direct relevance to local industry and trade, particularly for agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, and services. Compliance with food safety and quality standards enables Eswatini to access markets and enhance its global trade prospects.
Key points
- ESWASA represents Eswatini at the ISO Annual Meeting 2026 in Paris to discuss global standards and sustainable development.
- The meeting highlights the importance of trust, cooperation, and International Standards in building resilient trade and sustainable development.
- ESWASA's participation aligns with its mandate to promote standardisation, quality, and competitiveness in Eswatini.
