Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) – The MRA was signed on 5 April 2002. Documents such as detailed criteria and explanation for designation of testing laboratories and certification bodies were developed.A detailed checklist to qualify for an MRA was also developed for member countries’ reference; and

c)       Harmonisation – A comparative study on the existing regulations within ASEAN member countries in terms of test standards used, as well as the acceptance of test reports and certificates for the MRA was conducted.

ACHIEVEMENT

The ASEAN Mutual Recognition Arrangement (EEMRA) for Electrical and Electronic Equipment was initiated in June 2000. It was signed at the ASEAN Economic Minister Meeting (AEM) in Bangkok, Thailand, on 5th April 2002. This MRA would facilitate mutual recognition of test reports and certification among participating ASEAN member countries.

To facilitate the implementation of the EEMRA, a Joint Sectoral Committee (JSC) was established. The first JSC meeting would be held back to back with the 8^th EPWG meeting in May/June 2003. To date, four member countries have filed their notification to the ASEAN Secretariat to participate in the EEMRA. Please see tabulation in TABLE B.

EPWG EXTENDED FOR ANOTHER YEAR

The ACCSQ has decided to extend the Terms of Reference of the EPWG for another year to look into the following: -

(a)     Consideration of the Guide on Good Regulatory Practice;

(b)     Development and implementation of Outreach Programme for training; and

(c)     Consideration of matters relating to future FTAs and MRAs with (i) CER countries, (ii) China and (iii) Japan.

SUMMARY

The implementation of the ASEAN MRA on EE Equipment will help to enhance free trade in ASEAN. With the co-operation of ASEAN member countries and the ASEAN Secretariat, the EPWG endeavours to achieve the tasks set by ACCSQ.

Table A. Venue for EPWG Meetings

No. of EPWG Meeting held	Date of Meeting	Host-Country	Chair	Co-Chair
1st meeting	07-09 December 1999	Hanoi, Vietnam	ASEAN Secretariat	Thailand
2nd meeting	20-22 June 2000	Bangkok, Thailand	Singapore	-
3rd meeting	08-10 November 2000	Singapore	-	Thailand
4th meeting	17-19 July 2001	Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia	ASEAN Secretariat	Thailand
5th meeting	04-06 March 2002	Yangon, Myanmar	Singapore	Thailand
6th meeting	09-11 July 2002	Vientiane, Lao PDR	Singapore	Thailand
7th meeting	14-16 October 2002	Bali, Indonesia	Singapore	Thailand

Table B. Latest information as of 29 January 2003

Member Country		Committed Date	Effective Date to participate and implement	Type of Acceptance			JSC Representative
				Test Reports only	Certifications only	Both
1	Brunei Darussalam	2003	1 July 2003			X
2	Cambodia	2003
3	Indonesia	2003
4	Lao PDR	2003	1 January 2003			X
5	Malaysia	2003	1 July 2003		X
6	Myanmar	2004
7	Philippines	2004					Mr Jesus L. MOTOOMULL
8	Singapore	2003	24 April 2003			X	Mr Michael ONG
9	Thailand	2003					Mr Surasak ASAVADORNDEJA
10	Vietnam	2003