Efforts to accelerate the harmonization of product standards and the implementation of mutual recognition arrangements (MRAs) to facilitate ASEAN economic integration continued.  Out of five sectors identified for MRAs, namely Electrical and Electronic Equipment, Telecommunications Equipment, Cosmetics, Pharmaceuticals, and Prepared Foodstuff, two MRAs have been adopted and another one has been finalized for signing. 

To facilitate the implementation of the MRA on Electrical and Electronic (EE MRA), signed by the AEM in April 2002, the Detailed Criteria and Explanatory Notes for Being Designated as Testing Laboratories or Certification Bodies for the Implementation of the EE MRA and Checklist for the Implementation of the EE MRA have been developed.  Eight ASEAN countries will recognize the test reports and certification in 2003 while the other two are expected to join in 2004.
 
The Agreement on ASEAN Harmonized Cosmetic Regulatory Scheme was endorsed at the 34th ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Meeting in September 2002 covering two parts. The first is an MRA under which signatories to the Agreement are to recognize the product registration approval of any signatory in accordance with agreed rules and procedures. The second part is the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive, which lays down the requirements for cosmetic products to comply with all signatory countries. The operation of the Scheme with tariff reduction is expected to further boost up the ASEAN trade in cosmetics, which soared from US$ 140 million in 1993 to US$ 452 million in 2001.

For Pharmaceuticals, an ASEAN Common Technical Dossiers (ACTD) has been developed.  It covers quality, safety, efficacy and administrative data. These ACTD will serve as the basis for the development and operation of MRA in this sector.

Work on the harmonization of standards has been accelerated. Product standards for 20 priority product groups will be aligned with the relevant international standards by end of 2003. Another 72 Safety Standards and 10 Electromagnetic Standards will also be aligned in ASEAN by end of 2004.

 In addition to the regular ASEAN Standards and Quality Bulletin, a “News Flash” will be   introduced every three months to update industries on the development of standards and conformity assessment, especially the progress made in and the importance of MRAs and the harmonization of standards in ASEAN.