Twenty-two executives representing the national standards bodies of the Asia-Pacific region convened at ASTM International for a two-day open house. The event, held Sept. 22-23, was an open forum for discussion regarding the changing world of international standardization. Countries participating in the dialogue included Australia, Chinese Taipei, Fiji, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Mongolia, New Zealand, the Phillipines, China, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand, U.S. and Vietnam.
A reoccurring theme during the event was the need for international standards to be inclusive. Attendees learned that they have the opportunity to use U.S.-generated international standards while still honoring the intent of the World Trade Organization’s obligations to use international standards. Other discussion points focused on the standardization needs of developing nations, the need for flexibility within the global standards systems and support for small businesses.