Standards Development

The MBS formulates national standards (Malawi Standards) in all fields of interest. The standards act as a base or guideline for measuring the quality, performance or fitness for intended use of a product or service.

The formulation of standards is done through Technical Committees (TCs) which are made up of representatives from the industry, government ministries and departments, professional organizations and bodies, among others.

The Standards Development Department provides the secretariat for these committees. These TCs are grouped under three Divisions as follows:

• Chemicals and Textiles Division: TCs under this Division are responsible for the development of standards covering soaps, detergents, paints, pesticides, fertilizers, stationery and all products based on chemical formulations.
• Engineering and Materials Division: TCS under this Division are develop standards covering civil, electrical and mechanical engineering, information technology, renewable energy, building materials, etc.
• Food and Agriculture Division: TCs under this Division are responsible for the development of standards covering food technologies, food safety, agricultural produce, livestock and livestock products, poultry and poultry products, etc.