• Status and Integration Information of Single Accreditation Organizations

The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) have collaboratively established the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated, which was incorporated in 2024 and registered in New Zealand as a non-profit corporation. The Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated is scheduled to become fully operational in January 2026, with a mission to streamline the global accreditation framework, enhance international cooperation, and support trade, quality, and sustainable development.

• TAF’s Strategic Response

TAF was formally approved for Full Membership in Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated during the Second General Assembly in Bangkok, becoming one of its 149 members. TAF’s signatory status under the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA) and the ILAC Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) remains valid. This ensures that TAF’s accreditation of conformity assessment bodies continues to be recognized and comply with the international standards.

• Multilateral Recognition Arrangement Marks and Transition Rules

As the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated prepares for its full operation in January 2026, the new organization is in the process of registering its new mark internationally. Until the new mark is officially released, accredited conformity assessment bodies may continue using the current IAF MLA and ILAC MRA marks on reports, certificates, and declarations. A three-year transition period—from January 2026 to December 2028—is planned for mark conversion. Beginning in January 2029, the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated Multilateral Recognition Arrangement mark will entirely replace the IAF MLA and ILAC MRA marks, which will no longer be recognized.

TAF will develop and publish transition guidelines to fulfill its international membership obligations and ensure continued global credibility of accreditation results.

• Guidance for Authorities and Scheme Owners

Before the official release of the new mark and recognition arrangement symbol, there is no need to amend existing regulations that refer to IAF and ILAC. Once Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated publishes its official mark and MRA symbol, TAF will launch a program to assist authorities in drafting regulatory revision proposals. This will be supported by face-to-face communication activities to explain the transition plan and timeline, thus ensuring the accurate recognition of accredited conformity assessment results.

• For the Public

Following the merger of the international accreditation organizations, reports, certificates, and declarations issued by TAF accredited bodies will retain their international recognition. Consumers can verify accredited bodies and the usage of marks through the official TAF website.

Contact Information：

Ms. Ya-Chun CHEN

Phone: +886-2-28090828 ext.22

Email: yachun76@taftw.org.tw