Accreditation bodies, which have been evaluated by peers as competent, have signed an arrangement, the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA), that enhances the acceptance of goods and services across national borders.

The purpose of the MLA is to ensure mutual recognition of accredited certification and validation/verification between signatories to the MLA, and subsequently acceptance of accredited certification, validation and verification in many markets based on one accreditation.

Signatories must recognise and support acceptance of certificates and validation/verification statements issued by organisations accredited by all other signatories of the MLA, provided the certificates or statements are issued within the scope of the IAF MLA signatory.

This recognition and acceptance removes technical barriers to trade (TBT) by reducing redundant conformity assessment.

Accreditations granted by IAF MLA signatories should be recognised worldwide based on their equivalent accreditation programs, reducing costs and adding value to business and consumers.