Sana'a: The National Committee for Food Safety Regulation convened for its routine meeting at the Yemen Standardization, Metrology and Quality Control Organization, under the leadership of the Authority's Director, Abdullah Al-Athafi. During the meeting, a strategic program and action plan were approved for submission to the Director, focusing on enhancing food safety measures and consumer protection.
According to Yemen News Agency, the committee endorsed initiatives for awareness campaigns and educational materials, alongside strengthening collaboration among participating entities. Al-Athafi emphasized the critical need for regular meetings to improve coordination between relevant bodies, ultimately aiming to protect consumer health and bolster the national economy.
Al-Athafi highlighted the significance of prioritizing food safety as part of broader directives to support the agricultural sector, foster economic recovery, and achieve self-sufficiency. The National Committee for Food Safety Regulation, as defined by a decision from the Council of Ministers, functions as the principal national body for unifying efforts in food safety, implementing standards, and ensuring consumer protection. The committee also plays a role in enhancing the competitiveness of national food industries, facilitating their entry into regional and international markets.
The Director of the Standards Authority expressed appreciation for the Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Investment's leadership in supporting the committee's initiatives. He expressed optimism that the committee's meetings would yield decisions aligned with leadership directives and public expectations to strengthen food safety systems.
Furthermore, the Authority is committed to supporting the committee's efforts in safeguarding consumer health. Plans are underway to establish central laboratories in Sana'a and Al-Hodeidah Governorate, which will serve as reference centers for testing products approved by the committee. The Authority's 1448 AH plan includes equipping these laboratories with modern testing devices to enhance oversight efficiency and ensure product quality.
During the meeting, Engineer Nasser Al-Absi, Secretary-General of the National Committee for Food Safety Regulation, presented an introductory film on food safety. The committee also reviewed the minutes of the previous session and addressed several performance improvement issues.