History & Legislation
ZABS has been at the forefront of quality assurance in Zambia since 1982 - a legacy of standards, service, and national development.
Four Decades of Quality Excellence
The Zambia Bureau of Standards is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce Trade and Industry established in 1982 by an Act of Parliament. It implements the Standards Act No. 4 of 2017 of the laws of Zambia which repealed CAP 416 of 1994.
Under CAP 416, ZABS was responsible for the development of standards, enforcement of compulsory standards, testing, certification, and metrology services. The new Standards Act No. 4 of 2017 provides a modernized framework that separates enforcement functions to ZEMA and other relevant agencies.
ZABS' role is focused towards supporting industry to implement standards that enhance the quality of products and services for industry growth and competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. ZABS also acts as a link between local industry and regional and international standardization organizations.
A Legacy of Quality Assurance
Tracing ZABS' evolution from establishment to becoming Zambia's premier standards body
Establishment of ZABS
The Zambia Bureau of Standards was established as a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce Trade and Industry by an Act of Parliament (CAP 416 of 1994).
CAP 416 Enacted
Under CAP 416, ZABS was mandated to develop standards, enforce compulsory standards, provide testing, certification, and metrology services.
Expansion of Laboratory Services
ZABS expanded its laboratory capabilities, adding specialized labs for minerals, solar, petroleum, and microbiological testing to meet growing industry demands.
SADCAS Accreditation
ZABS certification division achieved accreditation under the Southern African Development Community Accreditation Service (SADCAS), boosting credibility of certification services.
Standards Act No. 4 of 2017
The Standards Act No. 4 of 2017 was enacted, replacing CAP 416 and providing a modernized legal framework for standards development, testing, and certification in Zambia.
11th National Quality Awards
ZABS celebrated the 11th Zambia National Quality Awards and Business Forum, recognizing excellence in quality management across Zambian industries.
Governing Legislation
The legal framework governing ZABS and related quality assurance activities in Zambia
Standards Act No. 4 of 2017
The principal legislation governing the operations of ZABS, covering standards development, testing, certification, and quality promotion.
Weights and Measures Act
Provides for the regulation of weights, measures, and measuring instruments in Zambia.
Competition and Consumer Protection Act
Establishes the framework for consumer protection and fair competition in Zambia.
Access Official Documentation
Full copies of the Standards Act No. 4 of 2017 and related legislation are available for reference at ZABS head office.
Request Document40+ Years of Transforming Zambian Industry
Since 1982, ZABS has been instrumental in shaping Zambia's quality infrastructure, helping businesses compete locally and globally through standardized practices and certification.
Continuing Our Commitment to Quality
ZABS continues to evolve, adapting to global standards and Zambian industry needs for a prosperous future.