Canada supports developing countries with food safety
The contribution to the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) will help developing and least-developed countries improve sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) capacity.
The WTO-managed platform brings together trade, health and agriculture experts to share knowledge, tools and good practice and strengthen the effectiveness of SPS technical assistance to developing countries.
Frédéric Seppey, Canada's chief agriculture negotiator, said building the capacity to meet international standards is a key stepping stone for developing countries.
“Not only does it improve food safety, plant and animal health domestically, it also supports economic development and facilitates access to international markets.”
Canada has contributed nearly CAD $17m to WTO trust funds in the last 15 years.
Roberto Azevêdo, World Trade Organization director-general, said: “This generous donation will help to sustain the support that the WTO provides to developing and least-developed countries so that their farmers can meet sanitary and phytosanitary standards and increase their agricultural exports.”
