World standards day: Message from Dr Khaled Soufi, ISO President

In January 2026, Dr Khaled Soufi, Chairman of the Egyptian Organization for Standardization (EOS), begins his term as President of ISO. In this inaugural message, he sets out a vision of ISO as a platform for collaboration and inclusion, and International Standards as key enablers for accelerating innovation and sustainable development.

In these times of rapid transformation and rising uncertainty across the world, International Standards matter more than ever. They provide consistency in the face of change, authority in the face of doubt and unity in the face of fragmentation.

Standards facilitate the flourishing of innovation by providing frameworks and mechanisms that ensure products, services and systems meet measurable quality criteria. This makes them powerful catalysts for international trade, establishing a common language that generates trust and promotes interoperability, supporting sustainable and equitable development worldwide.

My vision for ISO is clear: to ensure that we remain a central pillar of multilateral cooperation, reinforcing the pivotal role of standards in advancing sustainable progress and the digital innovation that is shaping all our futures. Here are some of the ways we will bring this vision to life.

State-of-the-art standards for the modern world

ISO must continue to lead in developing high-quality International Standards that embody the state of the art, address market needs and offer solutions to global challenges. In particular, our work in two high-profile sectors – emerging technologies and environmental sustainability – is driving innovation and accelerating progress towards responsible, equitable and resilient practices.

ISO and IEC’s joint committees on AI and quantum exemplify our dedication to advancing new technologies. Together, we are shaping the future of the digital age through our work in bio-digital convergence, the metaverse and brain–computer interfaces.

In the climate field, ISO’s trusted, globally agreed standards on energy management, greenhouse gas emissions, and climate change adaptation and mitigation help turn commitments into measurable, impactful actions. Meanwhile, our efforts in biodiversity and circular economy empower all types of organizations to contribute to the sustainable management and renewal of natural resources.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026