Trusted global trade is built on a foundation of integrity, transparency, and universally recognised standards. At the 2025 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS), Mark Quillinan, General Manager, AHK China, represented the TIC Council to address this critical topic.

As Vice Chairman of the TIC Council China, Mark joined industry leaders to explore how the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) sector provides the certainty needed to facilitate global trade. Discussions centred on the key theme of the day: Conformity Assessment Serving Sustainable Development and Innovation.

Key Takeaways from the Session

• Integrity, Accountability, and Sustainability: Reinforcing the TIC Council’s commitment to ethical and responsible trade practices.
• Global Best Practices: Advocating technical excellence and standardised procedures to reduce trade friction and ensure quality worldwide.
• Assessment as a Tool: Using assessment to confirm results, perform deep analysis, and uncover the unknown.
• ESG as a Catalyst: Positioning ESG compliance as a driver for service innovation and industry best practice.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Bringing regulators, industry, and service providers together to build a transparent, digitised, and resilient future for trade.
• The Future is Digital: Preparing for a world driven by digitisation and AI, with systems ready to adapt and evolve.
• Talent for Tomorrow: Ensuring today’s workforce is skilled and capable to meet the demands of future industry needs.

AHK’s role in Trusted Global Trade

As active members of the TIC Council, AHK contributes to the China Regional Steering Committee and its working groups, championing technical standards and sharing expertise to promote confidence across the sector. Our independent inspection and certification services provide impartial analysis, helping ensure supply chains are efficient, responsible, and trusted by producers, regulators, and end-users alike.

Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange

“We thank the TIC Council and CIFTIS for the opportunity to take part in these important discussions,” said Mark Quillinan.

“It was a privilege to engage with industry peers, exchange valuable insights, and share in the future vision for a digitised and AI-driven world. Collaboration and knowledge exchange are key to advancing the TIC sector, and we look forward to continuing these conversations.”

To see how our expertise can support your operations and enhance your supply chain, speak to an AHK expert today.