Accreditation of Testing Laboratories

Pakistani exporters had to test their products abroad for international recognition of compliance, which was costly and time consuming. Such foreign testings were not only expensive but contributed to delays in receipt of test results thereby affecting adversely delivery times for exports from Pakistan. UNIDO/TRTA upgraded key testing laboratories to meet the requirements of ISO 17025 and attain international recognition of their testing services through provision of the following interventions:

  • Expert advice on laboratory layout and testing activities
  • Elaboration of quality and technical documentation
  • Local and foreign training of laboratory staff
  • Provision of reference material, cultures and technical literature
  • Participation of laboratories in proficiency Testing Schemes
  • Initial and extraordinary assessments
  • Accreditation to ISO 17025       

Consequently, a total of 18 testing laboratories (6 microbiology testing, 7 chemical testing, 3 textile testing, 2 leather testing laboratories and 1 electrical testing laboratory) achieved internationally recognized accreditation to ISO 17025 for main testing services required by exporters. These accredited testing laboratories include the following:

Pakistan Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (PCSIR), Lahore

  • Microbiology Testing Laboratory
  • Textile Testing Laboratory
  • Leather Testing Laboratory
  • Electrical Measurement & Testing Laboratory

Pakistan Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (PCSIR), Karachi

  • Microbiology Testing Laboratory
  • Chemical Testing Laboratory (Food Section)
  • Chemical Testing Laboratory (Pharmaceutical Section)
  • Chemical Testing Laboratory (Environment Section)
  • Textile Testing Laboratory
  • Leather Research Centre of PCSIR, Karachi

Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA), Karachi

  • Microbiology Testing Laboratory

Marine Fisheries Department (MFD), Karachi

  • Microbiology Testing Laboratory
  • Chemical Testing Laboratory

Grain Quality Testing Laboratory - SARC, Karachi

  • Chemical Testing Laboratory

    Grain Quality Testing Laboratory - NARC, Islamabad

    • Microbiology Testing Laboratory
    • Chemical Testing Laboratory

    Pakistan Council of Research on Water Resources (PCRWR), Islamabad

    • Microbiology Testing Laboratory
    • Chemical Testing Laboratory

    National Textile University (NTU), Faisalabad

    • Textile Testing Laboratory

    Today, internationally accredited testing laboratories in Pakistan ensure that suppliers, buyers and consumers can have confidence in the safety and quality of goods exported from Pakistan.