National Standardization Strategy (NSS) Stakeholder Engagement Recap – Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau, Bahamas

On March 31, 2025, key industry leaders, government representatives, and stakeholders gathered at the Courtyard Marriott in Nassau for the National Standardization Strategy (NSS) Stakeholder Engagement Session. Hosted by the Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ) with the support of regional and international partners, the event served as a critical platform for discussing the future of standardization in The Bahamas.

A Collaborative Step Towards National Development

The NSS Stakeholder Engagement Session marked a significant step in shaping the country’s quality infrastructure. The discussions focused on how standardization can drive economic growth, enhance trade, and ensure consumer protection. Representatives from the Ministry of Economic Affairs, CROSQ, UNIDO, and the ACP QI Programme played a key role in outlining global best practices and aligning The Bahamas with international standards.

 Key Objectives of the Session

The event opened with welcome remarks that emphasized the vital role of standards in sustainability, tourism, climate resilience, and food security. Speakers highlighted how a well-defined NSS can provide businesses with a competitive edge while ensuring public safety and environmental sustainability. The session was designed with the following objectives in mind:

• To promote and build awareness of the National Standardization Strategy.
• To gather new information through stakeholder input and open discussions.
• To validate or confirm research findings that will guide the development of the NSS.

Engaging Discussions and Industry Insights

Participants engaged in insightful discussions on the challenges and opportunities within various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and digital transformation. Industry experts shared perspectives on how standards can facilitate market access, promote business growth, and enhance The Bahamas’ international trade position.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Standardization

 As The Bahamas continues to strengthen its national quality framework, stakeholder collaboration remains crucial. The insights and recommendations from this session will directly influence the development of a robust National Standardisation Strategy that benefits businesses, consumers, and the wider economy.

Two significant advancements also signal continued momentum:

• The approval of 114 new Bahamas National Standards (BNS).
• The establishment of a National Technical Committee for Consumer Policy (TC 21).

These efforts underscore BBSQ’s commitment to advancing a structured and stakeholder-driven approach to quality assurance.

 BBSQ extends its gratitude to all participants, presenters, and sponsors who contributed to the success of this engagement. This is only the beginning of a transformative journey towards a more competitive and resilient Bahamas.

 Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to shape the future of standardization in The Bahamas!