Under the theme “Certified for the Future: Quality, Sustainability, and Impact”, IQNET Day 2026 highlights the knowledge, experience and contribution of IQNET Members to the development of conformity assessment and to helping organisations prepare for future challenges.
APCER has been a member of IQNET – The International Certification Network since 1996, the year it was founded. In 2026, APCER celebrates three decades of activity, during which it has grown from a Portuguese certification body into an organisation with a presence in more than 40 countries and established operations in Portugal, Brazil, Spain and China.
Over the years, APCER has diversified its activities beyond quality management, developing certification, supplier assessment and training services in areas such as sustainability, food safety, information security, artificial intelligence and responsible supply chains. More recently, it has also introduced sustainability consultancy services.
This diversification reflects changing market conditions and the evolving needs of organisations, against a backdrop of increasing regulatory, technological and environmental demands.
As an IQNET Member, APCER remains committed to four key principles:
Valuing Local Knowledge and Expertise
Understanding the specific characteristics of each market is essential to meeting the needs of organisations. APCER values local expertise and close relationships with its clients, seeking to align national and international requirements with different business and cultural contexts.
Responding to Industry Needs
APCER closely follows trends and challenges across different sectors, developing and adapting its service portfolio to address current requirements and anticipate emerging needs.
Engaging with Communities
Collaboration with public authorities, associations, educational institutions and other organisations is an integral part of APCER's activities, through participation in initiatives that promote knowledge, sustainability and community development.
Collaborating with Certification Bodies Worldwide
Through IQNET, APCER shares knowledge and experience with certification bodies from different countries, keeping pace with international developments in conformity assessment.
This cooperation also extends to standardisation and accreditation. At the end of 2025, IQNET was involved in 28 ISO and CASCO committees and working groups, as well as 32 accreditation-related committees and working groups, within organisations such as IAF, EA and IAAC.
This involvement enables the network to contribute to discussions and the development of standards, requirements and practices that shape the sector, while encouraging the exchange of technical knowledge among its members.
As it celebrates IQNET Day 2026, APCER reaffirms the commitment that has guided its work over the past 30 years: supporting organisations through credible and independent certification and assessment services, contributing to more responsible management and greater preparedness for the future.
30 years. Many stories. The same trust.
Learn more about the network's initiatives and achievements at IQNET Day 2026.
