Mutual recognition agreements for product sales into the European Union

The paper covers the need for manufacturers to be aware of the certification and testing requirements of the European Union. It raises the issue of the need for acceptable quality management systems, both in house with manufacturers and with test laboratories, in order that the European Union may have confidence in the results that are being achieved and therefore accept the standards that are required to achieve mutual recognition agreements between the European Union and the US. Issues associated with the standards of testing, certification of test laboratories and the establishment of competent and notified bodies are also raised