UAE Ministry of Economy Signs MoU with SGS Gulf to Strengthen Quality Control of Food and Consumer Goods

In a significant step toward strengthening consumer protection, the Ministry of Economy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SGS Gulf Limited, the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company. The partnership aims to boost oversight over the quality and safety of food and consumer products in UAE markets and verify the validity of consumer complaints.

The MoU was signed by H.E. Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, and Geraldine Picaud, CEO of SGS Gulf Limited, in the presence of H.E. Arthur Mattli, Ambassador of Switzerland to the UAE, and senior officials from SGS.

Enhancing Consumer Safety and Trust

H.E. Al Saleh emphasized that this collaboration supports the Ministry’s commitment to developing a robust consumer protection system, fostering sound commercial practices, and ensuring the application of the highest safety standards across the UAE.

“This agreement marks a new milestone in our efforts to create a secure and transparent consumer market,” said H.E. Al Saleh. “It enhances product oversight and supports the UAE’s trade competitiveness and economic growth.”

Geraldine Picaud noted,

“Consumer protection is at the heart of our mission. This MoU reinforces our commitment to safety, satisfaction, and consumer trust by leveraging best practices and advanced inspection technologies.”

Key Highlights of the MoU:

• Product Safety Testing: SGS will conduct random sampling and testing of various consumer products, including baby food, cosmetics, and auto parts, to ensure they comply with UAE’s safety and quality standards.

• Verification of Consumer Complaints: SGS will support the Ministry in examining and validating consumer complaints that fall within its jurisdiction, helping maintain market integrity and accountability.

• Awareness Initiatives: Joint workshops and awareness campaigns will be launched across schools, universities, and public venues to educate consumers about product safety, especially in key sectors such as food, cosmetics, and household goods.

• Boosting Export Capabilities: The MoU also facilitates the export readiness of UAE-made products by assisting local manufacturers—particularly SMEs—in obtaining internationally recognized certifications, thereby enhancing their global competitiveness.

This strategic agreement is aligned with the UAE's vision to foster sustainable economic development through reliable quality control, innovation, and strong public-private partnerships. By collaborating with SGS, the Ministry of Economy reinforces its commitment to consumer welfare, market safety, and regulatory excellence.