If you’re a business owner pursuing ISO certification, an auditor maintaining industry standards, or simply an observer of global markets, the name GLOBAC is about to become a significant part of your world. With over a decade of experience in the ISO landscape, I’m excited to break down what this monumental transformation means for you. GLOBAC is the result of a merger between two of the world’s most important accreditation organizations: the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF). This merger is set to revolutionize ISO accreditation on a global scale.
Throughout this post, I’ll guide you through what GLOBAC is, how it will transform ISO certifications, and the reasons behind this historic merger. We’ll also explore the impact on certification bodies like Guardian Assessment, auditors, and the future direction of ISO standards. I’ve included practical tips for navigating the transition and a detailed FAQ section to answer your most pressing questions.
What is GLOBAC and Why Does It Matter for ISO?
GLOBAC, which stands for Global Accreditation Cooperation, is a new non-profit organization set to launch in January 2026. It combines the functions of ILAC (which handles laboratories and inspection bodies) and the IAF (which specializes in certification organizations). Currently, ILAC and IAF operate independently. This separation can create confusion, process duplication, and extra costs for businesses. GLOBAC aims to solve this. Imagine you own a manufacturing company in Mumbai with an ISO 9001 quality certification. When you try to sell your products to customers in Germany or the United States, they might question the validity of an Indian certification. They could ask for additional proof or even require you to get re-certified by their local bodies.
GLOBAC’s unified system will eliminate this problem. It establishes a single, globally recognized framework, meaning your ISO certificate will be automatically accepted in all member countries. The goal is simple but powerful: get certified once and be recognized everywhere.
How Will GLOBAC Change ISO Accreditation?
GLOBAC is set to rock the boat of ISO accreditation. Here are the three biggest changes to expect:
A Single, Harmonized MRA for Easier Global Acceptance
At present, accreditation for testing and calibration (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025) falls under ILAC, while management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) are under IAF. GLOBAC will merge these into a single Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA). This will allow ISO certifications to move freely across borders, meaning less tedious work proving your credentials when you export goods or services.- New Branding and Updated Certificates
Say goodbye to the separate ILAC and IAF marks on your ISO certificates. Starting in 2026, you will see the new GLOBAC MRA mark. There will be a grace period: old marks must be phased out within three years (by 2029). Certification bodies and regulators will need to update their contracts and certificates to reflect this change, ensuring your ISO certification remains valid worldwide. Increased Efficiency and Potential Cost Savings
By eliminating the duplication between ILAC and IAF, GLOBAC is expected to create cost savings for accreditation bodies. These savings could trickle down to certification agencies and, ultimately, to businesses like yours, making ISO certification more economical. Standardized processes will also lead to quicker audits and a smoother certification journey.
Why Are ILAC and IAF Merging?
To understand the need for GLOBAC, it’s helpful to look at its predecessors. ILAC has been the global authority for accrediting labs and inspection bodies since 1996, ensuring test results are recognized internationally. IAF has operated since 1993, specializing in the certification bodies that issue ISO certificates for quality (ISO 9001), environment (ISO 14001), and more.
While their mutual recognition arrangements have made ISO a global seal of approval, maintaining two separate organizations with similar goals led to duplicated efforts, extra costs, and occasional confusion. In 2019, ILAC and IAF members voted to merge, and in October 2024, they officially endorsed the GLOBAC constitution. As ILAC Chair Etty Feller stated, the merger is about “placing accreditation in a better position to respond to global issues such as trade, sustainability.”
What is the Impact on Certification Bodies and Auditors?
For certification bodies (CBs) and auditors, GLOBAC presents both an opportunity and a period of adjustment.
- For Certification Bodies (CBs): CBs like Mumbai-based Guardian Assessment Private Limited will need to align with GLOBAC’s Unified MRA. This involves updating auditing procedures, training staff, and transitioning to the GLOBAC mark. The major upside? Their ISO certifications will carry even greater international weight, helping their clients access new markets more easily.
- For Auditors: Auditors will need training on GLOBAC’s standardized protocols. While this may involve learning new audit directives, it will ensure consistency and predictability in audits, regardless of the region. If your CB is accredited by a body like IAS or UAF, your audits will gain even broader universal recognition under GLOBAC.
- For Everyone: The efficiencies introduced by GLOBAC should reduce duplicative work for both CBs and auditors. Surveillance audits and recertifications may become faster, freeing up time to focus on adding value rather than wrestling with paperwork.
What is the Future of ISO Certification with GLOBAC?
With GLOBAC at the helm, the future of ISO certification looks exciting. The unified accreditation system will make standards like ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 even more powerful in global trade.
As interest grows in sustainability (ESG standards) and digital standards (like ISO/IEC 27001 for data security), GLOBAC will make it easier for businesses to demonstrate compliance in new and emerging markets. A harmonized ISO framework will empower organizations to tackle global challenges like climate targets and supply chain resilience, making quality and trust a truly universal language.
What Happens to IAF and ILAC After the Merger?
As of January 1, 2026, ILAC and IAF will cease their operational roles, which will be taken over by GLOBAC. The transition will be gradual, with the full transfer of assets and documents expected to conclude by mid-2026.Your existing ISO accreditations will remain valid under the new GLOBAC MRA, ensuring a seamless transition. By the year 2029, the GLOBAC mark will completely replace the old ILAC and IAF marks.
How Will GLOBAC's Impact Vary by Region?
The transition to GLOBAC will be experienced differently across the globe.
- In India: As a hub for certification bodies like Guardian Assessment, India is well-positioned to benefit. The unified MRA will make Indian ISO certifications more competitive globally, boosting key industries like IT and manufacturing.
- In Europe: The situation is slightly more complex. In March 2025, Germany’s accreditation body, DAkkS, expressed concerns about legal risk under EU law, which could temporarily hinder full European adoption. While this may create short-term hurdles, most European bodies are working towards a solution. It’s always best to stay in touch with your local accreditation body to navigate these regional nuances.
How Can You Prepare for the GLOBAC Transition?
Getting ready for GLOBAC doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are a few steps you can take to stay ahead of the curve:
- For Businesses: Review your ISO certificates and contracts. Identify any references to ILAC or IAF that will need updating after 2026. Contact your certification body for guidance on maintaining compliance.
- For Certification Bodies: Start aligning with the GLOBAC MRA now. Update your documentation, train your staff, and engage with GLOBAC for webinars and materials.
- For Auditors: Familiarize yourself with GLOBAC’s new auditing protocols through training offered by your CB or accreditation organization.
Pro Tip: Follow industry forums and subscribe to updates from GLOBAC to get the latest information and avoid any surprises.
Conclusion: Embracing a Stronger ISO Ecosystem with GLOBAC
The merger into GLOBAC is more than just an administrative change; it’s a significant step towards a world where ISO certifications are more accessible, trusted, and powerful.
Whether you’re a company pursuing ISO 9001, an auditor ensuring compliance, or a certification body like Guardian Assessment, this evolution is a victory for the entire quality ecosystem. My advice? Stay informed, review your documentation, and get ready to be part of a stronger, more connected ISO world.
FAQs: Your Questions About GLOBAC and ISO Answered
A: GLOBAC is the new single global accreditation body formed by merging ILAC and IAF. It matters because it will streamline ISO accreditation, making your certificate more credible and easily accepted internationally.
A: Yes, auditors will likely need some training on GLOBAC's unified protocols to ensure consistency and efficiency in the auditing process.
A: No. Existing certificates will be recognized under the GLOBAC MRA. New certificates issued after the transition begins will feature the new GLOBAC mark.
A: In the long run, GLOBAC's efficiency is expected to reduce costs for certification bodies, which could lead to savings for you.
A: Yes, auditors will likely need some training on GLOBAC's unified protocols to ensure consistency and efficiency in the auditing process.
