Cars

John Wilson, Lead Economist, Development Research Group, World Bank. ISO member AFNOR – France In 2009, AFNOR, the ISO member for France, pub- lished a study to observe the impact of standardization from both the macro- and micro-economic standpoints. e survey, the first of its kind in France, yielded conclusive results : standardiza- tion directly contributes approximately 25 % of French GDP growth (gross domestic product), and 66 % of the 1 790 French companies interviewed stated that standardization contributed to the generation of profits. e findings of this survey confirm the role played by standardization in the French economy. It provides additional support to companies as well as political decision-makers to help them address one of the major challenges of the 21 st century : pushing back technological frontiers in order to enhance competi- tiveness and growth. Standards thus contribute to a safer, wealthier and more united world. In a word, a more sustainable world. Olivier Peyrat, Director-General, AFNOR Group. Another tool used to communicate the economic and social benefits of standardization were the updated pages on the ISO/IEC Information Centre published under the same name. The site is appreciated by ISO and IEC customers : on average more than 30 000 users visit it monthly. " The Role of International Standards in Economic Development " was also the subject of a WTO Tech- nical Barriers to Trade ( TBT ) workshop held in March 2009 and the July/August 2009 issue of ISO Focus with a report on renewing confidence. Both the TBT work- shop and the issue included the participation of John Wilson, Lead Economist, Development Research Group, World Bank, who commented on the usefulness of International Standards : " Global economic recovery requires urgent and quick action in all areas to remove obsta- cles to growth. I do believe expanded use of International Standards can bolster economic growth through trade – and work we have done at the bank demonstrates this." 11 Annual Report 2009

• Cover