Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture: Machines for humanitarian demining can now be certified by accredited bodies regardless of ownership form

On 19 November, the Government expanded the number of accredited bodies that may certify mechanised demining systems by amending the relevant Procedure.

Until now, such services could only be provided by the State Scientific Research Institute of Armament and Military Equipment Testing and Certification.

The resolution also clarifies the definition of mechanised demining systems and introduces a new term – “equipment for the detection of explosive ordnance”.

“Ukraine is currently among the world leaders both in the number of demining machines operating in the fields and in developments in the field of mine action. Given that the certification process itself is quite complex and lengthy, we are keen to increase the capacity of the bodies that certify machines and other equipment needed for humanitarian demining. Because competition means more testing sites, higher-quality equipment and, ultimately, lower prices for the services,” stressed Ihor Bezkaravainyi, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine.

The creation of a market for certification services will increase the flexibility of the process, lead to the establishment of new specialised testing sites and other resources for trials, expand their geographical coverage, and make them more accessible to manufacturers.