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DOMINICA: Bureau of Standards Ensures Compliance with International Standards
The Dominica Bureau of Standards has made significant strides in ensuring compliance with international standards, particularly in product labelling and fresh produce quality control.
Standards Compliance Inspections
The Bureau’s Standards Compliance sub-unit monitors all product labels for locally manufactured and imported goods for trade. This is done under the eight compulsory Dominica National Standards - Specifications for Labelling, which aim to ensure the welfare, health, and safety of consumers and the environment. The sub-unit conducts regular inspections and public awareness activities to guarantee that labelling requirements are adhered to.
Importance of Compliance
Compliance with international standards is crucial as it ensures:
- Substandard goods do not enter the market
- Customers receive value for money
- Imported and locally produced products comply with labelling requirements
- Locally manufactured products become competitive in local and regional markets
- Local products can access regional and international markets
DOM- GAP and Fresh Produce Export Quality Control Inspections
In June 2018, the Bureau of Standards began farm inspection activities as part of the implementation of the Fresh Produce Quality Control Act of 2009. Four Farm Assurers are employed to work closely with farmers to meet DOM-GAP Certification requirements. The Farm Assurers conduct farm visits, updating record books, and consultations with farmers.
Fresh produce inspections also commenced at the Inland Reception Buying Center on April 14th, 2020.
Services
The Bureau offers a range of services, including:
- Label Evaluation and Registration: reviewing product labels for compliance and accuracy, providing approval once requirements are met.
- Barcodes: generating barcodes using International Guidelines (GS1) and EAN/UPC symbology.
- Processing of ASYCUDA World Entries, Farm Inspections, Fresh Produce Inspections, Label Requirements Trainings, and Training of farmers.
Fees
The Bureau charges the following fees for its services:
- Label Evaluation and Registration: $25.00
- Barcodes: $75.00 per barcode
- Fresh Produce Export Quality Control (Inspection part): application fee ($25.00), license fee ($25.00), and inspection fee ($50.00)
Contact Us
For more information, please visit the Dominica Bureau of Standards’ website or contact us at:
Dominica Bureau of Standards National Centre of Testing Excellence Stockfarm P.O. Box 1015 Roseau Dominica Email: info@dominicastandards.org
Mission and Vision
The Dominica Bureau of Standards’ mission is to improve the global competitiveness of Dominican goods and services, while enhancing the overall quality of life for citizens. Its vision is to become a leading national standardization body in the region.