The Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization "SASO" hosted a specialized workshop to discuss governmental directions in order to activate the role of private laboratories in the regulatory system, in coordination with officials from the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, the Customs Authority, and a number of officials from the Saudi Chambers.

His Excellency the Governor of SASO, Dr. Saad bin Othman Al-Kasabi, His Excellency the Deputy Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Eng. Osama Al-Zamil, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Trade for Consumer Protection Eng. Omar Al-Suhaibani, the Undersecretary of the Customs General Authority for Trade Facilitation, Eng. Abdul-Rahman Al-Thukair, and the Vice President of the Saudi Food and Drug General Authority for Technical Affairs Mr. Sami Al-Saqer, in addition to the participation of members of the National Committee for Private Laboratories, representatives of the chambers' councils.

The workshop reviewed a number of dimensions including the governmental directions to activate the role of private laboratories in the regulatory system (imported goods - market surveillance), as well as improving the investment environment by creating a national strategy for examination and testing, and strengthening the partnership of governmental bodies with private laboratories in line with the goals of the Kingdom's 2030 Vision in addition to setting a clear plan to address the impact of governmental rules and legislations and the mechanism for its implementation.