CAC/GL 57R-1999 Regional Guidelines for Codex Contact Points and National Codex Committees (Asia)
Standardization is a mechanism to ensure the quality products. Food standards set the requirements for products to ensure that they are safe and fit for consumption, thus providing protection of the health of consumers.
In the commercial area, standards can be used as the basis for commercial agreements. Standards enable fair practices in the exchange of goods, thus eliminating barriers to trade. International standards are necessary and are a means to facilitate trade.
Country should be fully conscious of the significance of food standards for consumers’ health, as well as for trade and we realize the necessity of international food standards of the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme for protection of the health of consumers and for ensuring fair practices in the food trade.
The following Guidelines are reference examples for establishing new Codex Contact Points and National Codex Committees. Should there be an existing organization that is functioning with the effective liaison occurring with industry and consumers, introduction of a new organization may not be necessary. However, the government may appoint such an organization as a National Codex Committee.
