Despite trade liberalization and globalization, developing countries have not increased their market shares in global markets. One major reason is that the reduction of tariffs coincided with an increased use of standards and technical regulations (non-tariff barriers). Moreover, in increasingly interconnected globalised supply chains with increased consumer awareness and dynamic environmental policies, a high level of standardisation is demanded. The GQSP Phase II will harness in partnership with UNIDO its programmatic approach to diagnose & address still existing gaps in a tailor-made manner, building on the results achieved in Phase I.

The overall objective of the GQSP Phase II is to improve framework conditions for SMEs, achieve greater international competitiveness and increase exports for the countries.

Outcome 1: Technical competence and sustainability of the National Quality Infrastructure System is enhanced.

Outcome 2: SME compliance with international standards and technical regulations is strengthened.

Outcome 3: A conducive policy environment and culture for quality is created.

Resultados previstos:  

Capacity building activities conducted and related material developed (including online training).

Technical competence and sustainability of the National Quality Infrastructure System is enhanced.

In-depth analysis of the capacity of the QI institutions and service providers conducted and action plan prepared.

Technical competence of the QI at the service provider’s level strengthened.

The knowledge hub (online platform) is further developed, information is shared, training provided and made available online.

Resultados de las fases anteriores:  

At the global level, the GQSP Phase I established the global knowledge-hub encompassing "Global Tools" and offering access to 270 technical publications, more than 20 training courses with 7’437 active users, and issued 3’513 certificates. Also, the hub interlinks with the available Global Eco Industrial Park Programme tools (financed by WEHU, implemented by UNIDO). At country level, the GQSP Phase I improved market access in 11 value chains in 9 SECO focus countries and through 3 complementary measures. It supported 43 Conformity Assessment Bodies, 88 SMEs, trained 4’766 SME staff, and reached out to 8’212 persons through 32 awareness activities.