The ILO and the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) of the People's Republic of China have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation in special equipment safety and occupational safety and health. Signed on 14 April 2026 in Geneva, the agreement reflects a shared commitment to advancing social justice, decent work, and the recognition of OSH as a fundamental principle and right at work.
The cooperation will focus on several key areas of intervention. First, the partnership will support the exchange of regulatory frameworks, policies, and enforcement practices on special equipment safety and OSH. It will also promote the development of preventive approaches to foster safer working environments.
A strong emphasis will be placed on capacity building and skills development. This includes strengthening institutional capacity through training programmes, technical exchanges, and development of training materials, as well as joint implementation of training initiatives, including volunteer programmes. These efforts will contribute to building technical expertise capable of advancing OSH practices.
The cooperation will further enhance data collection and reporting on safety conditions, while facilitating knowledge sharing and coordination among stakeholders to improve global safety practices. In addition, it will support the promotion and dissemination of new technologies, tools, and protective methods to improve workplace safety and prevention mechanisms.
Awareness raising and advocacy will also form a core component of the partnership, including the promotion of international awareness and advocacy activities to promote OSH and decent work, and to strengthen a culture of safety. Finally, the cooperation will advance South-South collaboration and peer learning, including technical assistance to developing countries.
As a result of these interventions, the partnership is expected to achieve improved alignment of laws and standards with international frameworks, strengthened institutional capacity for OSH governance, and enhanced availability and quality of data. It will also lead to increased awareness and adoption of practices, expanded technical expertise, greater uptake of innovative safety technologies, and stronger global cooperation. Ultimately, these efforts will contribute to safer employment and more inclusive employment opportunities.
The partnership will be implemented within the context of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative, contributing to stronger global systems for safety and health at work. The partnership is an important contribution to the implementation of the ILO's Global Strategy on Occupational Safety and Health (2024-2030). It also aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 3 on health and well-being and SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth.
The agreement establishes a five-year framework for cooperation, with both parties contributing their own resources and expertise to implement joint activities. It also underscores a shared approach based on collaboration, knowledge exchange, and mutual respect for institutional mandates. By working together, the ILO and SAMR aim to promote safer workplaces, strengthen institutional capacities, and advance high-quality, inclusive development in occupational safety and health worldwide.
