ASTM International Signs MOU with Standardization Administration of China

ASTM International has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the national standards body of China. The event took place on August 20 in Beijing when senior officials from ASTM International and the Standardization Administration of the People's Republic of China (SAC) signed an MOU to strengthen the relationship between the two standards organizations.

The MOU was signed by ASTM International President James A. Thomas and SAC Vice Administrator Zhang Yanhua.

The signing, along with participation in standardization workshops held in Beijing earlier that week, is the latest event in ASTM's ongoing involvement in Chinese standardization. The MOU will enhance the ability of SAC and ASTM International to support the needs of the Chinese people and aid in the development of Chinese national standards for health, safety, and the environment.

"ASTM standards have a century of history in the world's marketplace helping to ensure good quality products and accurate testing procedures. With China's trade topping $400 billion for both imports and exports in 2003, standards are of the utmost importance," said Thomas. "The signing of this MOU with the SAC is a great step forward to encouraging greater access to ASTM standards in China as well as a bigger voice by Chinese experts in the content of ASTM standards."

For more information regarding this agreement go to www.astm.org