National Accreditation System a Strategic Partner in Building Competitive, Safer South Africa – Deputy Minister Steenhuisen

The Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Mr John Steenhuisen, says the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) is a strategic partner in building a competitive, inclusive and safer South Africa.

Addressing the agency’s 30th-anniversary celebration in Boksburg today, Steenhuisen said the dtic, recognised SANAS as a strategic partner in building a competitive, inclusive and safer South Africa.

“We pledge our continued support and partnership as SANAS strengthens its services, expands accreditation capacity into priority and emerging sectors, deepens international and regional cooperation, and pursues its ambition of becoming an even more agile, innovative and globally respected accreditation body,” he declared.

According to Steenhuisen, this accreditation body strengthens the national quality infrastructure. Furthermore, he said it supports the competitiveness of South African enterprises, assists regulators to fulfil their responsibilities, and contributes to the protection of citizens from unsafe or substandard goods and services.

Moreover, Steenhuisen emphasised that the body plays a critical role in the facilitation of trade.

“The South African exporters compete in markets where buyers and regulators demand credible proof of quality and compliance. Through regional and international recognition arrangements, SANAS helps to improve the acceptance of accredited testing, inspection and certification results across borders, reducing unnecessary duplication where the relevant recognition and market requirements apply. This translates into fewer technical obstacles, greater export readiness and a stronger platform for businesses to reach new customers,” added Steenhuisen.

He also noted that SANAS’ contribution extends beyond South African boarders, and through its involvement in the African Accreditation Cooperation and the Southern African Development Community Cooperation in Accreditation, it has contributed to strengthening regional cooperation and enhancing technical capacity across the region.

“As Africa advances the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), mutual recognition and trust of conformity assessment results across borders will become increasingly significant. A truly connected African market requires not only roads, ports and investment, but also depends on an infrastructure of confidence,” he added.

Steenhuisen further called on SANAS to embrace the technologies that can improve its own services.

“A world-class accreditation body of the future should offer simpler customer interactions, more transparent application processes, more predictable assessments, shorter turnaround times and proactive communication. Digital tools and responsibly governed Artificial Intelligence can support administrators and technical assessors, but they must strengthen, not replace, professional judgement, independence and impartiality. Importantly, cybersecurity and the protection of sensitive customer information must be central to that transformation,” he stressed.

The Acting Chief Executive Officer SANAS, Mr Jonas Shai said: “As SANAS celebrates this milestone, we should also recognise the broader significance of accreditation. Often working behind the scenes, accreditation touches nearly every aspect of our daily lives. It supports the quality of products and services, enhances market access for businesses, promotes innovation, strengthens regulatory systems, and ultimately contributes to a safer and more prosperous society.”

He added that the world was continuing to evolve rapidly and advance in technology as digital transformation, sustainability imperatives, and emerging industries are creating new opportunities and challenges.

“SANAS has demonstrated throughout its history that it can adapt, innovate, and remain relevant. We are confident that the organisation is well-positioned to continue serving South Africa and the continent with excellence, integrity, and credibility. As we mark this significant milestone, we take pride in what was achieved and draw inspiration from the opportunities that lie ahead,” said Shai.

He emphasised that SANAS’ story was one of credibility, trust, and impact

“I have no doubt that the next chapter will be even more remarkable than the last,” concluded Shai.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, South Africa.