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The Saudi Food and Drug Authority has taken on the role of secretariat and technical lead for the new ISO/TC 357 committee focused on standards for wound dressings and wound compresses, according to an official joint announcement with the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization. This marks the first time a country from the Middle East has been selected to head an ISO technical committee in this domain. The SFDA will oversee development of international norms addressing terminology, safety and performance requirements, testing methods and associated controls.
SASO coordinated the application process with the International Organization for Standardization and national bodies from around the world, the two Saudi agencies stated. Their joint effort secured approval from the ISO Technical Management Board following a formal review. The committee’s creation addresses a recognized international gap in harmonized wound care product guidelines.
The SFDA originally proposed establishing the technical committee because of growing global demand for consistent standards in wound management products. The authority highlighted how unified requirements could enhance product safety and facilitate cross-border regulatory alignment. Support for the proposal materialized quickly during the international ballot phase.
Twenty-seven countries voted in favor of the new committee, with 13 agreeing to participate as members and 21 taking observer status, according to the SFDA and SASO tally. This outcome underscores the breadth of interest in standardized wound care specifications. Saudi Arabia’s leadership position reflects its expanding influence in international standardization activities.
A Grand View Research assessment found the global wound care market was valued at $25.1 billion in 2025 and is projected to expand to $35.1 billion by 2033 at a compound annual growth rate of 4.3 percent. The consultancy linked this expansion to rising diabetes prevalence, chronic wounds and demographic aging that have increased demand for advanced dressings and related therapies. Standardized international rules are expected to support safer innovation and smoother market entry for compliant products.
The development forms part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing push to strengthen its role in global health and standards-setting forums, the authorities indicated. Both the SFDA and SASO described the appointment as recognition of the kingdom’s technical capabilities in medical product regulation. The committee’s work is set to begin with participation from member countries under Saudi leadership.
