JISM, int@j, and JCS sign MoU to facilitate the Daman Program

This 7-page MoU includes a list of global brand-names and labels of ICT (Information and Communications Technology) products, that will be exempt from the routine testing process, the largest source of complaints filed by the ICT sector to-date. The document also addresses in detail the inspection process, procedures for handling Return Materials Authorizations (RMAs), and the import of emergency products and critical mission parts which in many cases must be delivered and installed within 48 hours or less.

Other parts of the agreement are also dedicated to describe how further brand names may be added to the Green List, how potential future disputes may be resolved, and a variety of responsibilities for all parties involved to ensure a flawless implementation process of the Daman Program.

The Jordan Institute for Standards and Metrology previously launched the Daman Program, which through testing and inspection of imported goods aims at protecting the Jordanian consumers and traders from unsafe and counterfeit products. The contract to implement the Daman Program has been awarded of Bureau Veritas, which through its over 600 worldwide offices and vast network of accredited labs is well positioned to process all shipments in a timely and flawless fashion.

"The well-being of the Jordanian consumer is on the top of our list of priorities", says Dr. Ahmad Hindawi, JISM's General Manager. "We are however equally concerned about the best interests of merchants and traders, which is why JISM seeks active and productive discussions with trade associations that represent specific sectors of the economy. The ICT sector is a very promising industry that has enjoyed substantial support to-date, and we will ensure that our companies find the same level of cooperation and assistance at JISM", Hindawi continuous.

"The relentless efforts conducted by both sides involved to conclude that this MoU demonstrates the unique and unprecedented partnership between the public and private sectors in Jordan. The mature level of the discussions that took place to reach a mutual understanding about the final MoU placed both teams on the same side of the negotiations table", says Marwan S. Juma, chairman of int@j. "With two teams working in harmony and focusing on one common goal, an amicable solution remains but the only possible outcome", Juma concludes.

Humam Mufti, int@j Board Member and head of the Advocacy Committee commented earlier in the discussions that int@j fully supports the Daman Program and its mission and objectives. "The critical matter on hand was to ensure that the program's implementation mechanism will not harm the private sector. The MoU signed today achieved just that specific purpose and we are very pleased with the JISM's response and willingness to cooperate", Mufti comments.