Inter-American Accreditation Cooperation, A.C.
Inter-American Accreditation Cooperation, A.C.
The Inter-American Accreditation Cooperation (IAAC) has been a key player in strengthening accreditation systems in the Americas. Founded in 1996 in Montevideo, Uruguay, and formally constituted in Mexico in 2001, IAAC was born with the purpose of promoting confidence and harmonization in accreditation practices in the region.
Since its beginnings with 10 full members and 6 associate members, IAAC has led technical cooperation and institutional strengthening initiatives. Through the development of regional projects, it has fostered a culture of quality based on technical competence, transparency and continuous improvement.
Over the years, IAAC has been assessed and reassessed by ILAC and IAF, maintaining international recognition of its Multilateral Recognition Agreements (MLA), which supports its global trust.
IAAC has progressively broadened the technical scope of its Multilateral Recognition Agreements, incorporating new standards that respond to the emerging demands of the productive, regulatory and social sectors. This evolution reflects its commitment to excellence, relevance and adaptation to contemporary accreditation challenges.
IAAC fosters strategic alliances with organizations such as COPANT and SIM to strengthen the quality infrastructure in the Americas. These initiatives address key sectors such as sustainability, renewable energies and energy efficiency. In a cross-cutting manner, they promote digital transformation and gender equity as pillars of inclusive development.
Since the commemoration of its 20th anniversary in Lima, IAAC has been the protagonist of emblematic moments that consolidate its role in the region. Meetings such as the General Assembly in Antigua have reinforced the commitment of its members and the strategic projection of the organization. These milestones reflect not only the road travelled, but also a shared vision towards a more integrated and sustainable cooperation in the Americas.
IAAC has evolved from 16 founding members to a growing network of organizations committed to quality in the Americas. Its community of MLA signatories spans all areas of conformity assessment. This growth reflects a shared regional vision to strengthen trust, cooperation and market access.
IAAC commemorates World Accreditation Day every June 9, highlighting its commitment to strengthening the quality infrastructure in the Americas. This celebration reinforces the value of accreditation as a tool to promote trust, transparency and sustainable development. Through regional activities, IAAC promotes dialogue between governments, industry and society for a stronger and more competitive integration.
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