IAPMO has entered in a Memorandum of Agreement with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration in support of the U.S. plumbing industry. Through this formalized strategic partnership, the partners will collaborate on a program of activities to increase U.S. plumbing exports to Southeast Asia by increasing adoption and use in that region of standards and conformity assessment methods commonly used by U.S. companies.

IAPMO works to coordinate the development and promotion of plumbing and mechanical standards worldwide and has a robust presence in the Indo-Pacific. Advocacy for standards directly benefits the American companies that use them and aligns with ITA’s mission to promote U.S. standards in export markets in order to boost the competitiveness of the U.S. industry.

“We have been fortunate to work with the Department of Commerce and ITA for many years — a relationship that has proven mutually beneficial,” IAPMO CEO GP Russ Chaney said. “Together we have expanded market opportunities for the industry, increased standardization in new markets, and worked to protect the public’s health and safety across the globe. Formalizing our working relationship as strategic partners makes perfect sense and we are thrilled to take this relationship to the next level.”

ITA Executive Director for Asia Jim Golsen added: “The strategic partnership will help us to expand our existing collaboration with IAPMO in Southeast Asia. IAPMO’s success and partnership with Commerce over the years makes this an ideal partnership moving forward. Codes and standards are key to promoting economic integration and growth both in the United States and Southeast Asia.”