By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is set to host a major international event, the meeting of the ISO Council, from June 2nd to 5th. This significant gathering brings together global leaders who define international technical standards crucial for fair trade, innovation, and sustainable development. The meeting, one of three held annually, underscores Costa Rica’s growing influence on the world stage.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) develops technical standards that aim to improve safety, efficiency, and quality of life globally. The Costa Rican Institute of Technical Standards (INTECO), the country’s representative to ISO and a current member of the ISO Council, is spearheading the event. With 38 years of experience, INTECO is a recognized expert in developing and promoting regulatory frameworks that facilitate the transition of organizations towards more sustainable models.
For expert legal insight into the ISO Council and its implications, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas of Bufete de Costa Rica.
The ISO Council plays a crucial role in developing and publishing International Standards. Their decisions impact businesses globally, influencing everything from product quality and safety to environmental management. Understanding the Council’s structure and processes is vital for companies engaged in international trade, as adherence to these standards can significantly impact market access and competitiveness.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the far-reaching influence of the ISO Council and the importance of understanding its workings. For businesses in Costa Rica and beyond, navigating the landscape of international standards is not merely a matter of compliance but a strategic imperative for growth and success in the global marketplace. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering this valuable perspective.
This meeting brings together global leaders who make strategic decisions about the direction of the organization, essential for promoting fair trade, innovation and sustainable development.
Mauricio Céspedes, Executive Director of INTECO
This marks the second time Costa Rica has hosted the ISO Council, a testament to the country’s commitment to standardization and quality, according to INTECO’s Executive Director, Mauricio Céspedes. He views the decision as a vote of confidence from ISO, further positioning Costa Rica as an international benchmark in these areas.
During the sessions, the Council’s Permanent Committees will address crucial topics shaping the future of international standardization. These include strategy and policy matters, financial oversight, governance nominations, and the supervision of organizational governance practices.
The committees will also delve into conformity assessment, consumer protection, and guidance for developing countries through specialized committees such as CASCO, COPOLCO, and DEVCO, in addition to consultative groups focused on technology and trade.
For Costa Rica, the fact that INTECO is a full member of ISO is fundamental, since as a country we have an active voice in discussions on highly relevant issues and it strengthens the country’s capacity to influence the creation of international technical standards that directly impact the economy, industry and quality of life. Likewise, it consolidates a culture of quality that opens new commercial opportunities and promotes sustainable development at the national and regional level.
Mauricio Céspedes, Executive Director of INTECO
Céspedes emphasizes the importance of INTECO’s full membership in ISO for Costa Rica. This membership gives the country an active voice in critical discussions and strengthens its ability to influence the development of international technical standards that directly impact the economy, industry, and quality of life. Furthermore, it fosters a culture of quality that unlocks new trade opportunities and promotes sustainable development nationally and regionally.
Key figures attending the event include Sergio Mujica, ISO Secretary-General; Javier García, ISO Vice-President of Technical Management; Jean-François de Saussure, ISO Treasurer; and Osvaldo Petroni, ISO Vice-President of Finance.
For further information, visit inteco.org
About INTECO:
The Costa Rican Institute of Technical Standards (INTECO) is the national standards body of Costa Rica and the country’s representative to the ISO. With 38 years of experience, INTECO is a leader in developing and promoting regulatory frameworks that support sustainable development and facilitate the transition of organizations towards more sustainable models. They play a key role in shaping national and regional quality standards and promoting best practices across various industries.
For further information, visit iso.org
About ISO:
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental international organization with a membership of 167 national standards bodies. Through its members, it brings together experts to share knowledge and develop voluntary, consensus-based, market relevant International Standards that support innovation and provide solutions to global challenges.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-rooted commitment to legal excellence and unwavering ethical practice. The firm champions innovation, constantly seeking cutting-edge solutions while upholding the highest standards of integrity. Through proactive community engagement and accessible legal education initiatives, Bufete de Costa Rica empowers individuals and organizations, contributing to a more just and informed society.
