On February 26th, 2025, at the arts center in Béjaïa, the Research Center for Agro-Food Technologies (CRTAA), in collaboration with the Algerian Association of Testing and Quality Analysis Laboratories (ALAQ Algeria), organized an academic and media day dedicated to the accreditation of research centers and testing and quality analysis laboratories, under the theme: “Accreditation 17025: Excellence and Guaranteed Food Safety.”
This event brought together key stakeholders and users of accreditation scopes, including:
- Algerac (Algerian Accreditation Body), which ensures compliance with international standards,
- The General Directorate of Scientific Research and Technological Development (DGRSDT) of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research,
- The Algerian Quality Center (CAQ), a key player in promoting certifications,
- The Ministry of Trade, responsible for market regulation and control,
- Insurance companies, which incorporate laboratory compliance into their coverage criteria,
- As well as public and private quality control laboratories, and representatives from the agriculture, health, and industry sectors.
The day began with a formal opening ceremony, followed by speeches from Mrs. Boulesnane Wafa (ALGERAC) and Mrs. Mokdad Soraya (DGRSDT), who respectively explained the accreditation procedures and government initiatives to enhance this approach. Discussions emphasized the importance of accreditation for economic competitiveness and food safety, particularly in the agro-food sector.
The afternoon was dedicated to technical presentations, focusing on laboratory regulations, a digital platform for accreditation management, and insurance solutions for laboratories.
The event concluded with the signature of two conventions:
- One between the CRTAA and ALAQ,
- Another between the Algerian Insurance Company (SAA) and ALAQ,
as well as the handing-over of certificates to participants.
This event highlighted the importance of the ISO/IEC 17025 standard, which ensures laboratory competence and strengthens confidence in their results. Accreditation proves to be a strategic tool for enhancing product quality, facilitating trade exchanges, and protecting consumers, while also contributing to national economic development.
