Kigali, Rwanda, 6 October 2025 – Thousands will be gathering this week in-person and online for the International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO) Annual Meeting 2025 (AM25), to advance action on International Standards and their role in achieving the global sustainable development agenda. 

Hosted in Kigali, Rwanda, by ISO member, Rwanda Standards Board (RSB), the AM25 will take place from 6-10 October under the theme ‘United for Impact’.

ISO President Dr Sung Hwan Cho said the event would serve as a pivotal gathering uniting ISO members, governance bodies, and key stakeholders globally.

“The theme ‘United for Impact’ calls us to harness our collective strength in a world that needs bold, lasting change,” Dr Cho said.

“The ISO Annual Meeting is our most important global platform to explore how International Standards can address the world’s evolving challenges. It’s a unique space to reflect on emerging trends, exchange ideas, and strengthen the role of standards in advancing on global issues.

“This week-long hybrid programme reflects our belief that meaningful change emerges from global collaboration. By uniting diverse voices across borders, we drive bold, inclusive solutions through International Standards – ensuring no one is left behind.

“Rwanda’s hosting of ISO AM25 positions the country as a continental leader in standardization and quality infrastructure, reinforcing its vision as a regional hub for innovation and trade.

“We are proud to be holding this year’s Annual Meeting in Rwanda, and are deeply grateful to RSB for their partnership and leadership in bringing the global standards community together.”

RSB Director General, Mr Raymond Murenzi, highlighted Rwanda’s progress in global standardization and the country’s readiness to host ISO AM25.

“It is an honour to host the global standards community in Rwanda. To date, the country has developed and adopted over 2,250 ISO standards, which support socio-economic activities and open doors for Rwandan products and services in global markets,” Mr Murenzi said.

“RSB is committed to strengthening ties with ISO, peer National Standards Bodies, and partners to advance standardization locally and beyond.”

The event is expected to showcase Rwanda’s achievements in implementing standards across key sectors including digital economy, manufacturing, and agriculture, while opening opportunities for knowledge exchange and capacity building for local stakeholders. 

ISO AM25’s two pillars, Future-ready Together and Solutions with Impact, will frame the official programme, driving standards-based solutions for the future.

ISO Secretary-General, Sergio Mujica, encouraged participants to bring bold ideas and diverse perspectives to the table, emphasizing the importance of collective action in driving meaningful, transformative change.

“International Standards are key to unlocking economic opportunity, advancing inclusive digital transformation, and recognizing the vital role of people in shaping a resilient and sustainable future,” Mr Mujica said.

“Open to anyone with an interest in standards, the ISO Annual Meeting provides a unique opportunity to engage in forward-looking dialogue with global leaders and representatives from the ISO community, national standards bodies, civil society, international organizations, the private sector, as well as policy makers, academics and young professionals.”

Hon. Prudence Sebahizi, Rwanda’s Minister of Trade and Industry, welcomed participants, underscoring the country’s commitment to leveraging standards for economic growth and global collaboration.  

“We are honoured to welcome the global standards community to Rwanda for ISO AM25. This event reflects our belief that international cooperation is key to addressing the world’s pressing challenges,” Minister Sebahizi said.

“Rwanda is proud to showcase how standards accelerate innovation, support inclusive development, and empower communities. Hosting this meeting is both a milestone for our country and an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and inspire global impact.”

The ISO Annual Meeting is a hybrid international event brought to each continent on a rotating basis, enabling participation of members and communities from across the world.