This follows the successful completion and launch of first phase of the (iSQMT) system last year that automated the standardisation and quality control of products and services provided by TBS.

Through the system, TBS automated its core processes that include standards development, product certification, system certification, import inspection, metrology and testing.

The iSQMT was also integrated to the e-Government payment gateway platforms which guarantee fully automated processes from application, payment and acquisition of the final product (certificate/permit).

The Foreign Commonwealth development office, Ireland, and Norway funded the development of these systems with a contribution of $600,000 for the iSQMT portal and US$350,000 for the e-learning platform.

The TradeMark Africa Country Director Monica Hangi while speaking to The Guardian in an exclusive interview held at the TradeMark office in Dar es Salaam said the completion of the second phase of iSQMT system will enhance the standards and quality control, adding that plans are underway for accreditation of four of TBS testing laboratories.

“During the second phase of the system, our target is to at least accredit testing laboratories for TBS in Dar es Salaam and Mwanza. This will take a minimum of three years,” she said.

He noted that once the laboratories are accredited, they would help in provision of accurate and reliable results that meet global and international standards.

“This means that Tanzania products tested through the labs will be able to access international markets without necessarily being tested again in those particular markets since the laboratories meet international standards,” she said.

TBS and TMA in 2016 signed a $3million financing agreement which extended  by TMA’s support to TBS with the aim of increasing efficiency and effectiveness of TBS in the development and implementation of standards in Tanzania

The agreement provided an opportunity for Tanzania to catch up with other EAC Partner States for TMA support on standardization and conformity assessment.

It was an extension of support that TMA has provided to TBS specifically procuring and delivering two categories of testing equipment which included mini-laboratory equipment and glassware. These are expected to contribute to a reduction in testing turnaround time and cost.