SASO, which stands for Saudi Arabian Standards Organization, is a governmental regulatory body in Saudi Arabia responsible for the development, implementation, and enforcement of standards and regulations in various industries.
Established in 1972, SASO operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Commerce and Investment. Its primary objective is to ensure the quality, safety, and reliability of products and services in the Saudi Arabian market. SASO plays a significant role in facilitating fair trade practices and protecting consumers by setting standards for products, promoting quality control measures, and laying down technical regulations for different sectors.
SASO's responsibilities include the formulation and issuance of national standards, product testing and certification, conformity assessment and accreditation, and monitoring the compliance of businesses and products with the established standards. It collaborates with international standards organizations, such as ISO and IEC, to align its standards with global best practices, promoting harmonization and facilitating international trade.
The organization operates through various departments dedicated to specific industries, such as automotive, electrical appliances, food, and construction. It conducts inspections, product sampling, and risk assessments to ensure the compliance of goods and services and to protect the health and safety of consumers.
In summary, SASO is a governmental body in Saudi Arabia that plays a crucial role in the development, implementation, and enforcement of standards and regulations to ensure the quality and safety of products and services in the country.
