World Sailing's Technical & Offshore team has completed two manufacturer audits in China, scrutinising the processes behind sails and equipment that end up in the hands of competitive sailors worldwide.
The visits took in Wilfer Sail in Dongguan and IK Pacific in Hong Kong. The two sites run different programmes and handle different equipment, but the goal was the same: making sure what leaves the factory floor meets World Sailing's standards before a sailor ever gets near it.
Wilfer Sail, one of the major sail manufacturers based in China, has been part of World Sailing's In-House Certification (IHC) Programme since 2023. That system lets approved manufacturers certify sails at their own facility rather than sending them off for separate inspection later.
World Sailing trains the sailmakers to carry out the required measurements and certification themselves. As a result, sails leave Wilfer Sail already certified and race-ready, helping streamline equipment checks at major sailing events.
The audit at Wilfer Sail reviewed its manufacturing and certification processes, including the implementation of its Certification System and compliance controls. Regular audits like this provide independent verification that those processes continue to meet the required standards.
In Hong Kong, the focus shifted to IK Pacific, a well-established manufacturer specialising in windsurfing, kite and wing equipment. IK Pacific produces sails for the equipment used in the Olympic Windsurfing event (iQFOiL Class), making its manufacturing and quality-control processes an important link in the supply chain for Olympic equipment.
That audit was conducted under World Sailing's Manufacturer Certification System (MCS), a structured framework for monitoring manufacturers of Olympic equipment and supporting consistency throughout production. The visit covered manufacturing procedures, quality-control processes and the systems used to ensure equipment is produced consistently in line with the applicable specifications.
Jaime Navarro, World Sailing's Technical & Offshore Director, said the on-site visits matter for more than box-ticking. "Regular on-site audits give us the opportunity to verify the processes directly at the manufacturing facility and, equally importantly, to work with manufacturers to continuously improve the way equipment is controlled."
The Technical & Offshore Department will continue its programme of manufacturer audits and equipment inspections internationally, part of World Sailing's ongoing commitment to quality, consistency and a level playing field for sailors.
