The Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) is a deal between two or more countries that mutually recognizes the conformity assessment procedures and standards of each other`s products and services. The agreement enables the recognition of products and services in one country that have been tested and certified by another country, without the need for additional testing or certification.
The objective of the MRA is to facilitate trade between countries by reducing the technical barriers to trade. It ensures that products and services that meet the standards and regulations of one country can be sold in another country without being subject to duplicative testing and certification.
In simpler terms, the MRA means that if a product or service is deemed safe and meets the standards of one country, it will automatically be deemed safe and meet the standards of another country that has signed the agreement without the need for additional testing or certification.
The MRA can cover a wide range of products and services, including food, drugs, medical devices, electronics, and much more. This agreement can significantly reduce the costs and time associated with complying with different regulatory requirements in different countries, thereby promoting international trade.
The MRA is negotiated and signed by multiple agencies within the government, including trade, regulatory, and foreign affairs agencies. The agreement typically involves a series of negotiations where both parties agree on common standards and conformity assessment procedures for specific products or services.
The MRA is also essential for companies that operate in multiple countries. It enables them to sell their products and services in different countries without having to undergo separate testing and certification processes for each country. This helps companies to save time and money while promoting their products and services across the globe.
In conclusion, the Mutual Recognition Agreement is a critical agreement that promotes international trade by supporting the mutual recognition of standards and conformity assessment procedures between countries. This agreement helps in reducing technical barriers to trade and encourages businesses to expand their operations in different markets. The MRA is essential for companies that want to operate in multiple countries while complying with regulatory requirements and standards.