ASTM International, one of the world’s largest standards development organisations, intends to set up its first-ever international chapter in the UAE later this year.

“ASTM International standards are already being used in the Gulf, and the planned chapter is a natural extension of this involvement,” said Rashid bin Fahad, a former ASTM International board member.

 The group appointed a nominating committee to identify chapter officers, reviewed draft bylaws, and discussed potential chapter goals, including:

• Strengthening the involvement of UAE and other Gulf technical experts in standards-related activities and events;

• Sharing information on the UAE and the Gulf’s societal needs and emerging trends so that ASTM International can develop solutions; and

• Providing a direct link between the UAE and ASTM International.

 ASTM International has several memorandums of understanding with Gulf standardisation bodies, including one with the Emirates Authority for Standardization & Metrology (ESMA) since 2007.