In cooperation with different test organizations and experts, the German Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection has developed and published a code of good testing practices. Test institutions such as Stiftung Warentest or Ökotest are invited to voluntarily comply with the code. The code includes rules e.g. concerning transparency and independence, proper execution of tests, information on test suppliers and a declaration of commitment.
German Minister of Justice and Consumer Protection Heiko Maas commented on the new code: “Many consumers consider product tests in their purchase decisions. We all should aim at supplying the most transparent and reliable information possible. I am glad we have succeeded in defining a new code of testing practices. All test organizations are invited comply with the new guidelines.”
The ministry is going to publish a list of all testers voluntarily complying with the new code so that consumers can inform themselves about the quality and reliability of product test reports.
Further information can be found here.
Source: German Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection