1. Quality and Challenges Lebanese Agro-Food Sector
Arab Quality and Food Safety Conference
Place: Beirut
Date: 15 June 2006

2. Lebanese Industrialists
Strong belief in importance of quality and quality systems
Strive for adoption/implementation of quality systems and standards
Acknowledge need for better consistency
Reliance on export markets and meeting consumer demands for higher product quality
Facing challenges head on

3. Definition Common definitions of the term “Quality”:
Reduction of variability or compliance with specs
ISO: ”degree to which a set of inherent characteristics fulfils requirements”
Products or services that meet or exceed customers’ expectations
There is a two dimensional model of quality:
Must-be quality
Attractive quality

4. Challenges Globalization and need for exportation
Complex international regulations
Mandatory HACCP requirements
Labeling and packaging requirements
Faster promulgation of standards and Regulations

5. Challenges-Cont’d Traceability requirements Technological advances
Stringent customer requirements/specifications
Service delivery and turn around time (effective and efficient supply of requested information)

6. Short-Term Implications
Financial
Need to upgrade facilities and equipment to meet stricter standards
Invest in better caliber staff
Adopt automation and computerized systems
Human Resources
Reduce gap in educational background between middle management and supervisory level
Training of staff and personnel
“brain” drain or “talent” drain of skilled workers due to poor economic conditions
Time Implications
Adjustment periods to new quality standards
Downtime or inefficiency during training periods

7. Benefits and Conclusion
6 ∑ example
Significant cost reductions:
Lower wastage
Fewer product refusals and recalls
Lesser product rework
Improved consumer satisfaction and loyalty
Improved brand image
Economic growth