Quality generates trade

Project description

Title: Alliance for Product Quality in Africa
Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
Country: Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Morocco, Rwanda, Senegal, Tunisia
Overall term: 2019 to 2024

A man dries coffee beans against a hilly landscape, Copyright: GIZ

Context

In order for goods to be imported into the European Union, they must meet certain statutory quality and consumer protection standards. On top of this, many international importers also demand commitment to voluntary environmental and social standards.

African products often fail to meet these standards or lack the necessary certification. Despite low production costs, African producers therefore miss opportunities to participate in global value chains.

There is high demand on international markets for a large number of African products, including tropical fruits, tea and textiles. However, due to the certification requirements of international purchasers, many African producers only sell their products on national markets. The potential for creating additional jobs and increasing the profits of African companies is not being harnessed.

Objective

Product quality in selected business sectors and locations in Africa has increased.

A woman turns coffee beans with her hands, Copyright: GIZ

Approach

The Alliance for Product Quality in Africa is part of the Special Initiative "Decent Work for a Just Transition" of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Within the Alliance, the GIZ works hand in hand with the National Metrology Institute of Germany (PTB) and implements activities together with German, European and African companies, business associations, specialist institutions and other development cooperation stakeholders. The Alliance supports local companies in implementing, maintaining and demonstrating international quality requirements, and involves European companies in selecting industries and developing project ideas.

Specifically, the work of the Alliance entails providing training courses on implementing quality standards and introducing operational quality management systems. In addition, the project provides support and advice on certification for African businesses that produce goods with export potential.

Last update: January 2024

Additional information