Implementation details of Supplement X to CEPA on testing and certification announced
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     The Government announced today (June 5) the implementation details of the measure on testing and certification under Supplement X to the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA).

     Supplement X to CEPA expands, on a pilot basis in Guangdong Province, the scope of testing services for the purpose of certification that can be undertaken by Hong Kong testing organisations from food to other areas of voluntary product certification.

     Testing organisations in Hong Kong that would like to undertake testing for relevant certification schemes should be accredited by the Hong Kong Accreditation Service (HKAS) for the relevant tests. The testing organisations should also fulfil relevant requirements set out in individual voluntary certification schemes. Accredited testing organisations may co-operate with Mainland certification bodies to provide the services.

     Regarding participation in Mainland testing and certification activities, Supplement X to CEPA also accords the same treatment to relevant organisations set up in the Mainland by Hong Kong service suppliers. Specifically, in the process of designating certification and testing organisations under the China Compulsory Certification System, organisations set up in the Mainland solely or jointly by Hong Kong service suppliers are accorded the same treatment as their Mainland counterparts. These organisations are allowed to participate in relevant certification and testing activities in relation to authorised voluntary certification.

     For the implementation details, please visit the websites of the HKAS (www.hkas.gov.hk) and the Hong Kong Council for Testing and Certification (www.hkctc.gov.hk).

     A Government spokesman said, "CEPA has gradually opened the Mainland market for the business sector in Hong Kong, and Hong Kong's testing and certification industry will continue to benefit from further liberalisation of the Mainland market. We look forward to seeing, upon the implementation of Supplement X to CEPA, the branding of 'Tested in Hong Kong, Certified in Hong Kong' becoming further recognised in the Mainland."

Ends/Thursday, June 5, 2014
Issued at HKT 14:00

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