Senior officials from ASTM International and the Standardization Administration of the People's Republic of China (SAC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) designed to strengthen the relationship between the two standards organizations.

The MOU was signed by ASTM International President James A. Thomas and SAC Vice Administrator Zhang Yanhua. The signing, along with participation in standardization workshops held in Beijing earlier that week, is the latest event in ASTM's ongoing involvement in Chinese standardization. The MOU is designed to enhance the ability of SAC and ASTM International to support the needs of the Chinese people and aid in the development of Chinese national standards for health, safety, and the environment.

According to the organizations, ASTM International and SAC agreed to explore cooperation opportunities for standards development in areas of mutual interest; promote communication and knowledge between the two organizations; and promote greater Chinese participation into the ASTM standards development process.