The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) is a global network of accreditation bodies and other stakeholders involved in conformity assessment activities in various fields such as management systems, products, services, personnel, and other similar programs of conformity assessment. Established in 1993, IAF works to promote the acceptance of accredited certification and related services, with the aim of facilitating global trade and enhancing the acceptance of goods and services across national borders.

IAF members include accreditation bodies from around the world, along with regional accreditation groups, stakeholders from industry sectors, and associations involved in the accreditation process. Through its work, IAF develops and maintains multilateral recognition arrangements (MLAs) among its members to ensure mutual recognition of accreditation and to minimize the risk of products or services being rejected in international markets due to non-compliance with accreditation standards. This system plays a critical role in reducing barriers to trade and enhances global economic integration by ensuring that once a product, service, or personnel is certified in one country, it can be accepted in another without the need for further testing or certification.

IAF actively collaborates with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to ensure that accreditation practices globally align with international standards. The forum also works closely with the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) to coordinate efforts in the global accreditation landscape. By harmonizing accreditation practices and standards, IAF supports its members in improving the quality and safety of goods and services, fostering public health, and protecting the environment.

For more detailed information about IAF’s initiatives, governance, and the benefits of accreditation, please visit their official website.