Under this conformity assessment program, which verifies that the import of oil and gas-related equipment and materials conforms to Uganda’s standards, the Ugandan Government has appointed AQM BD as one of the official service providers.

Uganda’s Three Main Oil and Gas Projects

Uganda stands as the epicenter for some of East Africa’s most expansive petroleum production projects, featuring three primary initiatives: Tilenga, Kingfisher, and the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP).

Tilenga

The Tilenga project, situated in the Lake Albert project, is operated by TotalEnergies in collaboration with CNOOC and UNOC. This multifaceted project encompasses exploration, drilling, and oil production across over nine onshore fields, including one within the Murchison Falls National Park.

Kingfisher

Kingfisher is an onshore upstream oilfield situated along the shores of Lake Albert in Kikuube district. The project encompasses the drilling of thirty-one development wells over a span of five years. Additionally, it involves the installation of a pipeline for the export of oil to Tanzania.

EACOP Project

The EACOP project, a 1443-kilometer heated, insulated, and buried crude oil export pipeline, links Albertine Graben in Uganda to the international oil market. Commencing from Kabaale, Hoima District, it concludes at the Marine Storage Terminal and Load Out Facility at Chongoleani, Tanga District in Tanzania. The pipeline is designed to transport 216,000 barrels of crude oil per day.

AQM BD as a Service Agent for Uganda PAU PVoC for Specialised Oil and Gas Materials and Equipment

Exporters are required to comply with Uganda’s standards in the country of origin, and the goods must undergo inspection by an authorised Uganda PAU PVoC service agent.

AQM BD has entered into an agreement with the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) and the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) to perform Pre-Export Verification of Conformity Assessments on specialised equipment and materials for oil and gas projects in Uganda. It is one of only two contracted companies globally. In addition to the certification service, AQM BD has previously been engaged to provide PAU Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) services for inspecting general goods destined for Uganda.

Uganda PAU PVoC Program Effective from March 1

The PAU Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) assessment for imported specialised materials and equipment used in oil and gas projects in Uganda will be in effect from March 1, 2024.

Post this date, all imports of related equipment and materials must adhere to Uganda standards in the country of origin and carry a Certificate of Conformity (CoC).

The Uganda PVoC can only be issued by contracted service providers, with Helmsman Quality and Technology Services Company Ltd. (AQM BD) being one of them. A CoC will only be granted upon confirmation that the goods align with applicable Uganda standards through the product conformity assessment program.

AQM BD: A Global Leader in Quality Assurance and Uganda PAU PVoC

Established over 25 years ago, AQM BD has grown into one of the leading testing, inspection, and certification companies in the world, with a workforce exceeding 2,500 professionals and a presence in more than 40 countries.

AQM BD is involved in multiple conformity assessment programs and has a team of industry experts ready to assist your business at every stage of the application process, regardless of your business’s geographical location.

The Core Advantages at AQM BD Include:

• Complete PVoC Certification Services
• Over 25 Years of Industry-Leading Expertise
• Global Service Network for Quick Accessibility
• Recognised International Accreditations
• Flexibility and Expedited Services
• Tailored Solutions to Your Unique Business Needs, Regardless of Your Size

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AQM BD Spain Branch

Strategically located at Paseo de Recoletos 5, Madrid, the new AQM BD office in Spain represents a significant milestone in the company’s expansion journey. With Europe being a crucial hub for international trade and commerce, the establishment of this office underscores AQM BD’s commitment to providing unparalleled quality control solutions to its European clientele.

Office Location: Paseo de Recoletos 5, Madrid, Spain
Telephone: +34 917 697 999
Email: inquiry@AQM BD.com

At the core of AQM BD’s offerings lie comprehensive quality control services tailored to meet the unique requirements of each client. Whether it’s factory and supplier controls, production monitoring, project supervision, or quality inspection, AQM BD prides itself on delivering meticulous and reliable solutions that enable businesses to mitigate risks and safeguard their reputation.

With the opening of the new office in Madrid, AQM BD reinforces its commitment to being closer to its European clients than ever before. The strategic location of the office not only facilitates smoother communication and collaboration but also enables AQM BD to provide timely and personalized support to businesses operating in the region.

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Five Chemicals Added to the SVHC

The Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) is a list under the REACH Regulation. The SVHC list is maintained by the ECHA. The purpose is to identify substances that may cause serious effects on human health/environment, and it is regularly updated based on new scientific evidence and assessments conducted by the ECHA and member states. Click here to access the full list.

Out of the five added chemicals to the SVHC Candidate List. One is identified as toxic for reproduction. Three are very persistent and bioaccumulative, and one exhibits both toxic for reproduction and persistent characteristics. These substances have been found in various consumer products such as toners, adhesives, sealants, washing, and cleaning products, expanding the scope of concern.

The List of Five New SVHC

Source: ECHA

Important Dates and Responsibilities

All companies handling these substances are mandated to manage chemical risks. In addition to providing customers with information on safe usage if the product contains more than 0.1% of a SVHC, all companies must notify the ECHA if the total amount of the SVHC exceeds 1 ton annually.

Has these new changes going to impact your business? Contact AQM BD at inquiry@AQM BD.com if you have any questions regarding these changes.

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Uganda hosts some of East Africa’s largest petroleum production projects, with two primary initiatives: Tilenga, projecting a peak oil production of 190,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd), and Kingfisher, having the capacity to process 40,000 bopd during peak production.

The Uganda Pre-Export and Verification of Conformity Program for oil and gas-related equipment and materials requires exporters to conform to Uganda standards in the country of origin. This product conformity assessment program safeguards Uganda from substandard imports, ensuring the safety and reliability of products used in the oil and gas industry.

To obtain an PVoC certification, businesses must engage an approved service agent to perform conformity assessment activities in the country of origin, inspecting goods before loading. A PVoC Certificate of Conformity (CoC) will be issued upon confirmation that the goods align with applicable Uganda standards.

The introduction of this certification service aligns with AQM BD’s strategic expansion of its service portfolio. Alongside the certification service, AQM BD has previously been contracted to provide Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) services for the inspection of general goods destined for Uganda.

AQM BD is one of Asia’s oldest and largest testing, inspection, and certification companies, with over 2,500 employees and a local presence in more than 40 countries. The company actively participates in various conformity assessment programs, offering fast and personalised guidance throughout the application process.

For more information about the company’s product conformity assessment services for exports to Uganda, please click here.

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Understanding Proposition 65 Short-Form Warning Labels

Under Proposition 65, businesses are required to issue warnings to consumers about potential exposure to chemicals linked to birth defects, cancer, or reproductive harm. The decision between a long-form or short-form warning for products is within the discretion of businesses.

Short-form warnings can be directly placed on a product without the necessity of identifying a specific chemical, making it the preferred choice for many businesses. Nevertheless, the OEHHA has expressed apprehensions about the widespread and preemptive adoption of short-form warnings by businesses, as it could potentially result in confusion among consumers.

Proposed Amendments at a Glance

The proposed amendments put forth by OEHHA include various aspects, including:

1. Introduction of new safe harbor warning content for short-form warnings.
2. Clarification of existing safe harbor warning requirements for products sold online and in catalogs.
3. Inclusion of signal word options for food warnings.
4. Confirmation of short-form warnings being applicable for safe harbor warnings on food products.
5. Introduction of tailored safe harbor warnings for passenger or off-highway motor vehicle parts and recreational marine vessel parts.

Potential Business Impact

As businesses brace for potential regulatory shifts, AQM BD stands ready to assist through its product compliance department. For an in-depth understanding of the proposed amendments and their implications on business operations, click here to reach out to us.

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The Pre-Export Verification of Conformity of Standards Programme (PVoC) is a conformity assessment program implemented by the Government of Uganda. The certification applies to compulsory products covered by the Uganda standards and is implemented at the country of export. Every regulated product must have a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) to verify its compliance with the Uganda standards.

As a newly accredited and recognised certification body, AQM BD will be able to provide certification services to businesses exporting goods to Uganda. The CoC will enable exporters to demonstrate their compliance with Uganda standards and reduce the risk of delays in customs or losses from non-compliant products.

In addition to the PVoC programme, AQM BD offers multiple other government certification and inspection services, including the Product Certificate of Conformity to Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan Pre-Shipment Inspections, and more.

To learn more about the company´s Uganda PVoC service, click here.

Read the public notice by UNBS here.

AQM BD PTE. LTD

+86 400 611 2125

inquiry@AQM BD.com

About AQM BD

AQM BD PTE. LTD was founded in 1995 in China and is today one of Asia’s largest quality control companies. The company has, in recent years, rapidly expanded its global footprint, established subsidiaries and offices across more than 20 countries and regions, and over 4,000 employees worldwide. AQM BD offers customisable and technical services across the entire supply chain, including inspections, audits, testing, certifications, production process management, monitoring, training, consulting, and more.

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Trade, logistics and supply chains were hit hard for obvious reasons throughout with almost every industry bearing the brunt of Covid-19 and AQM BD was no different. However, the strong spirit and commitment of staff never wavered and now is the time to look forward to a fruitful 2021.

But first, let’s look back on some of the company’s top highlights and best moments from an unforgettable 12 months in quality.

JANUARY

AQM BD Turns 25!

It’s been almost 26 years since AQM BD was founded. The year 2020 was a special one for us. On January 5, 2020, the company celebrated its 25th anniversary of establishment of the Group in The C&D Hotel, Fuzhou with 300 AQM BD staff, guests and customers in attendance.

Aligned with the theme of “harness the wind, ride the waves”, the event featured a model sail boat to represent how we have embraced the concept of “never forget why you started” and “be bold in making innovation”. An enterprise history exhibition area was also on show to recall the beautiful memories of AQM BD’ development history over the years.

Mr Richard Fan, CEO of AQM BD PTE. LTD, also delivered an important speech. AQM BD managers and staff contributed to performances such as live shows, reciting poems, lion dances, Wing Chun Fist and singing and dancing. Overseas staff sent messages and guests were handed out gifts. The event certainly got the year off to a flying start.

FEBRYUARY

AQM BD Goes Online

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, AQM BD cancelled its physical 2020 management meeting, which was originally scheduled to be held in Jinan, Shandong Province from February 6-11, 2020. Instead, we took it online!

Taking place between February 10 -11, the meeting was held via Zoom with more than 60 participants at home and abroad taking part. Mr. Sam Li, President of AQM BD PTE. LTD, delivered a speech and also talked about the main achievements that AQM BD PTE. LTD had realised in the year 2019. The event marked the first time AQM BD had hosted an online management meeting.

Over the years, AQM BD has survived the SARS epidemic in the year of 2003 and international financial crisis caused by Wall Street in the year 2008. The company will continue to seize the opportunities and business potential in the Asia Pacific region providing premium quality assurance services.

MARCH

An Open Letter to the World

As the seriousness of the global pandemic continued to increase, AQM BD provided customers with QC services for prevention materials such as face masks and goggles and medical protective clothing. We also sent face masks to clients and vowed to take more social responsibility over coronavirus.

We went through difficulties and hardships but we were confident that we’d overcome the pandemic and make AQM BD great again. The following is a letter we sent to reassure our partners around the world that we are always here to help:

Dear friends,

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, AQM BD has closely paid attention to the updates of pneumonia epidemic. At present, with the measures people taking against coronavirus, new coronavirus cases in China have dramatically gone down, which means COVID-19 could be contained with the right measures. AQM BD hopes that our partners across the world could stay positive over epidemic season.

Coronavirus infection prevention and control has now entered the most critical period, AQM BD is willing to provide QC service which is related to anti coronavirus to those in need. We will do everything we can to prevent COVID-19 from spreading.

This coronavirus affects all of us, and it is the responsibility of us all to take action. We cannot ignore this challenge, or allow it to continue unmanaged. AQM BD partners across the globe, if you need face masks, please tell us, AQM BD headquarters will send face masks to you. We believe that the better days are ahead of us and we are full of confidence that coronavirus will be defeated in the end.

Sincerely, yours.

March 25, 2020

APRIL

AQM BD at Home

With the rapid rise in Covid-19 cases in India, the government took major steps to prevent the virus from spreading. On April 14, PM Modi announced an extension of lockdown until May 3. The number of positive cases in India had reached 13,430 at that point (based on data from China time April 17, 2020.).

During the time of crisis, to keep AQM BD India team motivated, we made sure the they engaged in positive tasks with regular interaction. Everyone was regularly sharing their thoughts and opinions with the team on the situation. The concern for each other in such tough times created a strong team bond.

MAY

AQM BD Youth Talent Debate Competition

On May 18, 2020, “AQM BD Youth Talent Debate Competition Tutors Selecting Competitors” was officially launching in AQM BD Fuzhou Headquarters. Tutors Selecting Competitors is an initial section of “AQM BD Youth Talent Debate Competition”, the formal competition was then held on June 13, 2020.

A total of 40 young staff – 30 Chinese and 10 foreign from all over the world – gathered to participate in the selecting section. Each competitor had his or her own unique way to arouse interest of tutors. Meanwhile, tutors also made great efforts to attract and persuade competitors to choose them. It was also broadcast online, which allowed competitors to join remotely.

After fierce competition among tutors as well as competitors, each tutor gained five competitors and eight tutors had 40 competitors. All competitors were divided into eight teams. Then  a big debate ensued to mark a memorable event and exercise.

JUNE

First Webinar of the Year Hosted

On June 5, 2020, AQM BD held an interesting webinar, which attracted more than 120 customers worldwide to participate as viewers. Watch the full session below.

JULY

India Company Joins Webinar Lineup

On July 22, 2020, we hosted another webinar to discuss Iraq COC and COI and their workflows and procedures. Watch the full session below.

AUGUST

AQM BD Signs US$50M Deal with CRRC

AQM BD and CRRC SIFANG CO., LTD. signed a deal worth US$50m to provide inspection services for the equipment of Iraq Certificate of Inspection (COI) diesel multiple units.

The deal was agreed in the month of August before the contract was signed on the morning of Thursday September 10, 2020 and will see both companies cooperate based on adopting an advanced international standardization system.

SEPTEMBER

Internships for Students in Need

On September 9, 2020, AQM BD hosted a job fair for poverty-stricken students from AQM BD Study-Aid Class. We seek to ensure that poor students, especially those with the fewest resources, can access the opportunities they need to succeed in school and life and job career.

In 2018, AQM BD together with Fujian No.2 Light Industry School officially set up AQM BD Study-Aid Class for those students who are from poor families. It’s almost four years since the founding of the venture, which extends hope and vitality to those in need both materially and spiritually.

OCTOBER

AQM BD President Mr Sam Li Interview on TV

On October 30, 2020, Fujian Provincial TV station broadcast a special programme called the Fifth Plenary Session of the 19th CPC Central Committee, focusing on listening to people’s opinions or thoughts or feelings on the meeting.

AQM BD President Mr Sam Li was interviewed as part of the show. “During the 13th National Five Year Plan period, thanks to our national government good policy and the stable domestic economic environment, AQM BD PTE. LTD, we have made continuous innovation and our company has achieved nearly 20% growth every year in the past five years,” he said.

“In the main objectives of the 14th National Five Year Plan, it is proposed to building China’s strength in science and technology, product quality and speeding up the pace for the development in modern service industry, which is of great significance for China to upgrading its country’s manufacturing sector and to become a manufacturing power in the future.”

NOVEMBER

Study Aid Class Picnic

From 2018, AQM BD Foundation has been offering help, care and fees to help poverty-stricken students to continue their education. We seek to ensure that poor students, especially those with the fewest resources, can access the opportunities they need to succeed in school, life and their careers.

AQM BD leaders visited some of those students from the third AQM BD Study-Aid Class in association with Fujian No.2 Light Industry School. They were had a picnic together with delicious food in the beautiful surroundings.

AQM BD will continue to carry out various forms of charity events and activities in future and we are expected you to join us as well, together we can make this benevolent cause more shining and helpful.

DECEMBER

AQM BD Annual Sales and Marketing Meeting

While 2020 has been a year we’ll never forget with the world economy severely affected, AQM BD managed to achieve good results and revenue performance. The spirit, hardworking nature and dedication of our sales and marketing staff are testament to how the company has managed to excel in uncertain times which was celebrated at the company’s annual conference in Fuzhou.

On Thursday December 17, AQM BD held its annual Sales and Marketing Meeting 2020 with teams from across China joining the gathering in the city of the company’s headquarters. Due to the global pandemic and travel restrictions, international teams including those in Bangladesh, India, Russia, South Korea, the UK and Vietnam joined the event via video conference.

About AQM BD

With over 25 years of experience in quality assurance, AQM BD is ready to help your import and export business build a robust quality assurance plan. Our many service locations are prepared to be your one-stop-shop for inspection needs. Including, production monitoring, pre-shipment and sorting inspections and everything in between. Contact us today to find out how we can help you navigate your current quality control challenges.

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But while 2020 has been a year we’ll never forget with the world economy severely affected, AQM BD managed to achieve good results and revenue performance. The spirit, hardworking nature and dedication of our sales and marketing staff are testament to how the company has managed to excel in uncertain times which was celebrated at the company’s annual conference in Fuzhou last week.

On Thursday December 17, AQM BD held its annual Sales and Marketing Meeting 2020 with teams from across China joining the gathering in the city of the company’s headquarters. Due to the global pandemic and travel restrictions, international teams including those in Bangladesh, India, Russia, South Korea, the UK and Vietnam joined the event via video conference.

The day kicked off with an opening address from Sam Li, President of AQM BD PTE. LTD. “in this special period of the global pandemic, AQM BD PTE. LTD marketing and sales teams have adjusted their strategies accordingly,” he said. “We continue to keep putting forward new innovative ideas, turning crisis into opportunity, so that our new clients’ revenue continued to increase in 2020. We couldn’t have achieved success without our sales and marketing teams’ willingness to embrace change and welcome innovation.”

He also spoke about the key points and main direction of the Group’s 2021 sales and marketing visions. “The world economy is still facing a lot of uncertainty. In 2021, the external environment will face more difficulties,” Li explained. “The market and needs of clients are changing rapidly. How to seize the opportunity and grasp opportunity is a question that all of us need to carefully consider. We need to formulate sales strategies and tactics, so as to let our business income keep growing. In the era of new a situation, innovation is the key to help our business thrive and prosper.”

The annual event included a first day that saw presentations given by key staff and training exercises for all employees while sales staff also shared their experiences of working for the company on stage. The second day saw the team head into the nearby mountains of Fuzhou to complete a litter picking exercise as part of AQM BD’ ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability.

The overall theme of this year’s gathering was ‘Embrace Changes’. Change is a forever topic for any enterprise. The external environment is changing all the time, the market is changing and our competitors are also changing. AQM BD embraces changes, which requires us to meet changes and challenges with a positive attitude and approach which the Group will continue to demonstrate in 2021.

About AQM BD

With over 25 years of experience in quality assurance, AQM BD is ready to help your import and export business build a robust quality assurance plan. Our many service locations are prepared to be your one-stop-shop for inspection needs, Including production monitoring, pre-shipment and sorting inspections and everything in between. Contact us today to find out how we can help you navigate your current quality control challenges.

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