This issue of IAF Outlook highlights key developments within IAF and the broader accreditation landscape. Among the major stories, we explore a new initiative between IAF and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to integrate IAF CertSearch data into UNIDO’s Quality Infrastructure for Sustainable Development (QI4SD) Index. This index evaluates the readiness of economies to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We also report on the recent recognition of the Interprivacy certification scheme under the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA), and welcome a new IAF Association Member, the International Institute of Welding. As World Accreditation Day 2025 approaches, we reflect on this year’s theme, Accreditation: Supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and invite readers to join the virtual celebration being hosted by IAF and ILAC on 09 June.

This issue delves into how ISO standards and accredited conformity assessment continue to support progress in critical areas such as cybersecurity and the ethical, safe development of artificial intelligence. We also examine the transition to digital monitoring, reporting and certification, identifying it as a key advancement in carbon market infrastructure and discussing considerations for realizing its full potential.

An article addresses the frequently misunderstood distinction between accreditation and certification, clarifying their respective roles and emphasizing the value they deliver when used together. We also provide an update on the Global Accreditation Experience Index, a project designed to assess economies’ accreditation capabilities.

We showcase updates from regional accreditation groups, and the ongoing impact and innovation driven by accreditation bodies and stakeholders across diverse sectors. Learn about developments in Africa, with articles highlighting a strategic partnership between the Kenya Accreditation Service and the African Organisation for Standardisation, the West African Accreditation System’s accreditation schemes for the agri-food sector, stakeholder feedback on the Ethiopian Accreditation Service’s accreditation process, and accreditation for non-destructive testing. We profile how digitalization and automation in construction materials testing is being advanced in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Additionally, this issue includes an analysis of the distribution and concentration of Colombia’s conformity assessment bodies across economic sectors using the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI), offering data-driven insights to support more resilient and balanced quality infrastructure development.

The issue can be viewed here. We hope you enjoy reading this issue of IAF Outlook!