By Yasmine EDDAM
2 May 2025
The French standardisation system is based on a structured organisation combining private and public players. Understanding it is essential for companies faced with the application of standards. This system defines how the technical rules that govern many sectors of activity are drawn up, approved and disseminated. AFNOR: the pillar of the system The Association française de normalisation (AFNOR) is the central element of the French standardisation system. Its mixed legal status gives it a unique position. Legal status and missions AFNOR is a private-law association governed by the Law of 1901. Founded in 1926, it has been recognised as being in the public interest. This status gives it extensive legal capacity, particularly in terms of acquiring and disposing of property or acquiring shares in commercial companies. Its private legal nature is accompanied by a mission of general interest explicitly recognised by decree no. 2009-697 of 16 June 2009. Article 5 of this decree states that "the Association...
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