7 January 2026 - Every day, Quality Infrastructure ensures that the products and services we rely on are safe, reliable and fit for purpose—from the accuracy of a kilogram of rice at the market to trusted measurements in healthcare and environmental monitoring. Comprising standards, metrology, accreditation, conformity assessment and market surveillance, Quality Infrastructure (QI) underpins confidence in goods and services worldwide.
In daily life, quality infrastructure protects consumers by ensuring that food, electronics and vehicles meet established safety and performance requirements. Accurate measurements support fairness and well-being, from utility billing to medical diagnostics. At the same time, robust QI systems enable businesses—particularly small and medium-sized enterprises—to meet domestic and international market requirements, enhancing competitiveness, facilitating trade and supporting economic growth. Strong quality infrastructure also reinforces public policies in areas such as health, environmental protection, trade and innovation, helping countries respond effectively to societal challenges and advance sustainable development.
New video: Why quality matters
Through the Global Quality and Standards Programme (GQSP), funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, UNIDO strengthens national QI systems, empowers producers to enhanve their compliance capacity and promotes a culture of quality that raises awareness of how quality contributes to sustainable development. In this context, UNIDO is pleased to present a new video that brings the concept of quality infrastructure to life by highlighting its impact on consumers’ everyday experiences. Using real-world examples, the video shows how metrology, standards and conformity assessment support safety, fairness and trust in products and services.
Not visible, but indispensable
Often unseen, quality infrastructure is fundamental to modern economies and societies. It supports reliable markets, industrial diversification and participation in global value chains, making it a key driver of sustainable development.
For more information, please contact Dorina Nati d.nati@unido.org