First Deputy Minister for Economics and Labor of Sverdlovsk Region Nikolai Bespamyatnikh chaired a meeting of interdepartmental committee devoted to helping regional enterprises prepare for Russia’s upcoming entrance to the World Trade Organization. The meeting was attended by representatives of Sverdlovsk Region’s executive and legislative branches.

It was reported that companies needed to have quality management systems and international certification procedures introduced in order to become economically viable.

The Ministry reports most regional enterprises that have already been certified in compliance with the international standards deal in construction or food processing; there are also a few hotels, car mechanics’ and large chain stores. The number of certified companies is lowest among agricultural enterprises.