Certified Once, Accepted Everywhere
ICF operates a worldwide multilateral recognition arrangement, ensuring that certifications issued by our members are recognized and accepted globally, facilitating international trade and building confidence in conformity assessment.
What is ICF?
The International Certification Forum (ICF) is the world's premier international organization of accreditation bodies, stakeholders, and regional cooperation bodies. ICF facilitates international trade and supports regulators by maintaining a multilateral recognition arrangement (MLA) that ensures the equivalence and mutual acceptance of conformity assessment activities issued by ICF member accreditation bodies worldwide.
Global Recognition
Accreditations recognized and accepted by ICF members across all continents
Global Network
150+ member accreditation bodies and stakeholders ensuring worldwide coverage
Quality Assurance
Rigorous peer evaluation ensuring competence and consistency
Trade Facilitation
Removing barriers and supporting international commerce and market access
Our Purpose and Impact
Primary Purpose
ICF's primary purpose is to maintain a multilateral recognition arrangement (MRA) between member accreditation bodies based on peer evaluation and mutual acceptance of conformity assessment results.
This global approach ensures that testing, certification, inspection, and verification results from accredited bodies are recognized across multiple markets.
Global Role & Impact
- Reduces duplication and testing costs globally
- Opens access to international markets
- Builds trust in conformity assessment results
- Creates safer societies and stronger economies
I Am A...
Accreditation Body
Learn about recognition benefits, MRA participation, and peer evaluation.
Certification Body
Understand how accreditation enables global market access and recognition.
Regulator
See how accreditation supports regulatory requirements and market oversight.
Scheme Owner
Discover MRA scope integration and scheme endorsement opportunities.
Company
Learn how accredited certifications enhance market credibility and acceptance.
Consumer
Understand the confidence and safety that accreditation brings to products you use.
Key Principles
Transparency & Impartiality
Operating with open procedures and independent oversight
Balanced Participation
Ensuring meaningful involvement of all stakeholders
Peer Evaluation
Grounded in globally accepted ISO/IEC 17011 standards
Confidence & Trust
Foundation for international cooperation and trade