On 1 July 2026, the 2026 CQC BRCGS Food Safety Certification Auditor Competence Calibration Conference concluded successfully in Nanjing, China, bringing together certification professionals to strengthen auditor competence and promote consistency across food safety certification.

Hosted by CQC and organised by CCIC Jiangsu Co., Ltd., the conference provided a valuable forum for auditors and industry experts to explore the latest developments in BRCGS certification and global food safety requirements.

The programme featured updates on the latest BRCGS policies, an overview of key revisions to global food safety standards, and an analysis of non-conformities identified during audits to support greater consistency in auditing practices. Delegates also explored audit integrity, approaches to addressing common challenges, and the scientific and regulatory considerations surrounding gluten-free assurance. The importance of harmonised testing methods in strengthening consumer confidence and facilitating international trade was also highlighted.

This year's conference marked the third consecutive year that our colleague, Ray Jin, Regional Head of North Asia at BRCGS, was invited to speak. Drawing on BRCGS' 30-year history and global certification data, Ray shared insights into the evolution of the Standards, emerging industry trends, and the role of BRCGS in supporting confidence throughout international supply chains.

The annual calibration conference demonstrates the shared commitment of BRCGS and our certification partners to maintaining auditor competence, promoting consistency across certification programmes, and driving continual improvement in global food safety.