International Accreditation Bodies and Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA / MLA) – Türkiye Perspective
Accreditation does not only provide national credibility; when structured correctly, it enables international recognition. The foundation of this global acceptance lies in Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA) and Multilateral Recognition Arrangements (MLA).
In this guide, we examine international accreditation organizations, the MRA / MLA system, and Türkiye’s position within this framework from a professional accreditation consultancy perspective.
Structure of the International Accreditation System
The global accreditation system operates through national accreditation bodies supported by international cooperation organizations.
This structure ensures that:
- Accreditation results are mutually recognized across borders
- Repetitive audits and duplicate testing are avoided
- International trade and technical trust are strengthened
Without this system, organizations would be required to undergo separate accreditation processes in every country, significantly increasing cost and complexity.
What Are MRA and MLA?
MRA – Mutual Recognition Arrangement
MRA refers to agreements that enable mutual recognition of accreditation results, primarily covering:
- Testing laboratories
- Calibration laboratories
- Inspection bodies
MLA – Multilateral Recognition Arrangement
MLA applies mainly to certification activities, including:
- Management system certification
- Product certification
- Personnel certification
Core Principle of MRA / MLA
“The results produced by an accredited organization in one country are accepted as equivalent in other countries.”
This principle gives accreditation its true international value.
Major International Accreditation Organizations
ILAC – International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation
ILAC oversees accreditation cooperation for:
- Testing laboratories
- Calibration laboratories
- Inspection bodies
Common standards include:
- ISO/IEC 17025
- ISO/IEC 17020
Thanks to ILAC MRA, test reports issued in one country are accepted internationally without re-testing.
IAF – International Accreditation Forum
IAF covers accreditation for certification bodies providing:
- Management system certification (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001)
- Product certification (ISO/IEC 17065)
- Personnel certification
The IAF MLA ensures global recognition of certification certificates.
EA – European Co-operation for Accreditation
EA coordinates accreditation bodies across Europe and operates in full alignment with:
- ILAC
- IAF
For organizations operating in or exporting to Europe, EA recognition is strategically critical.
Türkiye Perspective: The Role of TÜRKAK
Türkiye’s national accreditation body is TÜRKAK (Turkish Accreditation Agency).
- TÜRKAK is a full member of EA
- TÜRKAK is a signatory to ILAC MRA
- TÜRKAK is a signatory to IAF MLA
As a result, organizations accredited by TÜRKAK benefit from:
- Internationally accepted test reports
- Globally recognized inspection results
- Certification certificates valid across multiple markets
Why MRA / MLA Scope Management Is Critical
Not all accreditations are automatically valid worldwide. Key considerations include:
- Accreditation is scope-based
- Recognition depends on activity type and standard
Misaligned scopes may lead to international rejection. Incorrectly structured accreditation may cause:
- Disqualification in international tenders
- Contractual disputes
- Rejection of reports or certificates abroad
Therefore, the objective is not simply to be accredited—but to be correctly and strategically accredited.
International Dimension of Accreditation Consultancy
For organizations targeting global markets, professional accreditation consultancy is essential.
Effective consultancy includes:
- Target market analysis
- Identification of required MRA / MLA scopes
- Correct standard selection
- Strategic accreditation scope design
This approach maximizes both technical compliance and commercial value.
Sertifike’s Accreditation Consultancy Approach
At Sertifike, we treat accreditation as more than regulatory compliance—we see it as a tool for international market access.
Our accreditation consultancy services include:
- TÜRKAK, EA, ILAC, and IAF structure analysis
- Development of international accreditation strategies
- ISO/IEC 17000-series compliance studies
- Audit preparation and post-accreditation sustainability support
Our goal is not only to help organizations obtain accreditation, but to use it effectively on a global scale.
Conclusion: MRA & MLA as the Backbone of Global Accreditation
MRA and MLA systems form the backbone of international accreditation recognition. Türkiye’s integration into this system through TÜRKAK provides a strong advantage—when managed correctly.
With the right accreditation consultancy strategy, accreditation becomes a powerful instrument for global credibility, compliance, and market expansion.
Sertifike supports organizations throughout this journey, ensuring accreditation delivers real international value.
