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UAE sets product quality

DUBAI — Consumers will soon be able to purchase products, confident in the knowledge they adhere to the highest standards because they carry the Emirates Quality Mark (EQM), which was launched yesterday.

The Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA) has developed the UAE Product Certification Scheme, in accordance with international standards, to ensure that products confirmed to specific standards and met an independent assurance of quality and safety.

ESMA deputy Director-General Mohamed Badri said local and international manufacturers had already begun enquiring and applying to the voluntary scheme in a bid to have their products designated with the EQM to attract local consumers and gain access to international markets. "It's an acknowledgement of quality and a trade tool for manufacturers which will open the door to outside markets," he said. "It's a huge advantage for the traders and the manufacturers."

Fifteen per cent of manufacturers are expected to apply for the EQM this year and this figure is expected to double in 2008, according to ESMA. "This mark will allow easy trade," Badri said. The scheme, which will complement Dubai Customs work, will also help eliminate duplicate products and cheap, substandard products.

"High risk products or previously problematic products such as water heaters are the priority," Badri said. The main sectors which will be targeted to apply for the mark include products such as lubricants, oils, detergents, food, toys and cosmetics.The first products bearing the mark will be visible in the market within two months.

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