ISO (International Organization for Standardization)

The International Organization for Standardization, commonly known as ISO, is a non-governmental organization made up of national standards bodies from over 160 countries around the world. It was established in 1947 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. ISO's primary aim is to develop and publish international standards that facilitate trade, enhance product quality, ensure safety, and promote efficiency and innovation across various industries globally.

ISO standards cover a broad range of topics, including but not limited to technology, food safety, agriculture, healthcare, and environmental management. By providing a unified set of criteria for products, services, and systems, these standards help to ensure quality, reliability, and safety.

Each member country has its own standards organization that contributes to the development of international standards through technical committees. The collective work ensures that the standards developed are comprehensive and applicable internationally, promoting global interoperability and supporting the convergence of regulations across different regions.

The organization's work helps businesses increase productivity while minimizing errors and waste, thereby enhancing compatibility and interoperability between products and services from different markets. This harmonization is crucial for encouraging fairness in global trade and fostering innovation.