European Accreditation published EA-6/05 INF on 5 October, setting out a framework for cooperation between European and third-country accreditation bodies involved in assessing verifiers established outside the European Economic Area (EEA).
The guidance addresses how accreditation bodies can work together on assessments, access technical expertise and maintain oversight of verification providers operating in third countries. Local language capabilities and familiarity with national conditions can contribute to the assessment process.
European accreditation remains a requirement
The framework clarifies the potential role of third-country accreditation in supporting the assessment of non-EU CBAM verifiers, while retaining the requirement to obtain accreditation through the applicable European route.
Existing domestic accreditation for greenhouse-gas verification does not automatically confer authorisation to perform verification work under the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Companies seeking to provide these services must demonstrate the competence and independence required for CBAM-related activities.
Verification access depends on scope and capacity
For exporters supplying the EU market, European Accreditation cooperation could facilitate access to verification providers located closer to their industrial installations. Local assurance companies may also have an opportunity to enter the market, subject to meeting the applicable competence and independence requirements for CBAM verifier accreditation.
The guidance establishes a framework for cooperation between accreditation bodies rather than guaranteeing an increase in the number of available verification appointments. Exporters must therefore confirm the accreditation status of the relevant entity, its authorised sector scope and its capacity before relying on a verification engagement.
