In the photo front from left Anna Tanskanen (SESKO, CEO), Elina Huttunen (SFS, Head of Standardization), second row from left Klaus Nieminen (Traficom, Chief specialist), Eriika Melkas (Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, Senior Ministerial Adviser), third row from left Kim Hagström (SFS, Chair), Markku Kinnunen (Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, Chief Councellor) and Esa Tiainen (Chair of the Board, SESKO) fourth row from left Jafar Keshvari (IEC CAB, Vice member for Finland),Markus Ahvenus (SGS Fimko, IEC CAB member for Finland) and Jo Cops (IEC President).
Strategy and the future at the center of discussions
The meeting, held at Restaurant Nokka, focused on Finland’s national standardization strategy, shared perspectives on its necessity, and industry representatives’ views on the significance of standardization. Discussions also covered the evolving European standardization system and standardization as a tool for the future. Speakers particularly emphasized the importance of Finnish influence in international standardization within IEC and ISO.
SESKO’s 60th anniversary celebrations begin
The event served as the official launch of SESKO’s 60th anniversary celebrations. Open discussions, strong collaboration, and shared expectations for the future provided a solid foundation for upcoming festivities.
Conformity assessment supports Finnish industry
Another key topic was Conformity Assessment (CA) and its importance to Finnish industry. “IEC CAB membership helps Finnish industry enter international markets and ensures product competitiveness and reliability through IEC’s conformity assessment systems. It also gives Finnish companies a chance to influence certification and evaluation practices, reduce trade barriers, and promote exports,” stated Markus Ahvenus from SGS Fimko.
Standardization as a driver of economic growth
As Finland seeks new avenues for economic growth, all available resources and tools should be effectively utilized, including standardization, which supports foresight and future planning.
The preparation of Finland’s national standardization strategy is now underway in accordance with Prime Minister Orpo’s government program. The goal is to strengthen the role of standardization in supporting the competitiveness of Finnish businesses and to define national priority areas for standardization. Finland’s standardization organizations are ready to actively contribute and share their expertise.
National standardization strategy strengthens competitiveness
Standardization should be elevated to a strategic, cross-sectoral, and proactive tool. This requires identifying best practices, evaluating and prioritizing standardization initiatives in cooperation with industry and research institutions, and integrating standardization into R&D activities and decision-making. Strengthening strategic standardization expertise in universities and businesses is also essential.
A well-planned and implemented national standardization strategy can provide significant competitive advantages for Finland, facilitating market access, business growth, and innovation.
SESKO’s anniversary festivities continue
The standardization dinner served as the opening event for SESKO’s 60th anniversary celebrations, which will continue on March 26, 2025, with a future seminar and gala dinner at Helsinki Music Centre.
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