Discounted Costs of Participation (Evolving Economies)

Laboratories from countries defined and listed in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) World Economic Outlook as emerging and developing economies can apply for a reduction of the EQA fees. These laboratories can take advantage of a significant reduction in EQA fees for a period of 4 years, provided the laboratories agree to continue to participate in EQA at full cost thereafter.

Laboratories from evolving / developing economies

The IMF policy document lists the current countries defined as emerging and developing economies.

In order to apply for the reduction / discount in fees, the laboratory should submit a formal online application to EMQN (see above) together with the following evidence:

  • Number of years the laboratory has been operating,
  • Number of tests undertaken annually in the relevant EQA category,
  • Main source of laboratory funding, and
  • Approximate turnover in local currency.

The information provided will be reviewed and verified by the EMQN Office and, if applicable, a formal note of acceptance will be sent to the laboratory.  The final decision regarding fee reduction lies with the EMQN Director.  A laboratory in receipt of a fee reduction is obliged to inform the EMQN Office of any significant changes to the criteria listed under 5.2.3 above within one calendar month of a change.  Once the agreed period of fee reduction has expired, the laboratory will be invoiced the full cost for EQA participation.

The laboratory must participate for 5 consecutive years in at least one EQA scheme per year. If a lab defaults from this requirement, the fees will be charged (without a discount). Non-payment will result in the agreement and account being cancelled/closed. Invoices will be sent annually.

The laboratory agrees to pay the full EQA scheme fees in year 5.

Please note the EMQN policy relating to this changed on 01/09/2021 to V9. Download the application form and submit to EMQN.

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