The STDF assessment is largely positive about the impact of the program

An evaluation of a global network found that this contributes to increased sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) capacity in developing countries.

The Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) was established by the World Trade Organization (WTO), the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Animal Health Organization (WOAH), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank Group.

The evaluation, conducted by Project Economics Consulting, covers the STDF’s performance in strengthening sanitary and phytosanitary systems in developing countries from 2020 to 2024.

Data used to support the report’s findings include interviews with more than 130 stakeholders, such as partners and donors, and surveys with 81 respondents. Fieldwork was conducted in Switzerland, Thailand, Guatemala, El Salvador, Mozambique and South Africa as part of project impact evaluations.

According to the report, the demand and need for support for SPS capacity development continues to grow. Requests for technical assistance show that developing countries still need support to reach international standards and benefit from a project financier.

Key findings and recommendations
Projects are selected based on registrations. Examples of projects funded under the current strategy include various pilots, such as the ePhytosanitary Certificate scheme.

It was noted that the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on project implementation and cooperation with experts from developing countries.

Stakeholders reported that increased SPS management capacity improves food security through access to safer or pest-free food. There is also evidence of a decrease in notifications to developing countries and improved food security due to fewer contaminants or other food safety issues.

Limitations included the ability to conduct outreach and disseminate knowledge and challenges in measuring and reporting progress. There was also some concern about the ability of some projects to sustain the results achieved after completion.

Jean-Marie Paugam, Deputy Director-General of the WTO, said: “The STDF is doing excellent work in helping developing countries increase their capacity in food safety, animal and plant health, protect health and from the trade. The work of the STDF enables small businesses to join global and regional value chains.”

The evaluation report listed six recommendations, including the possibility of expanding the STDF’s mandate to address non-SPS trade issues and improving project co-financing, with possible private sector involvement.

Francesco Branca, Director of the Department of Nutrition and Food Safety at WHO, said: “The report identifies key areas to further develop the STDF, which should be reflected in the next strategy. This includes strengthening connections between the STDF and others engaged in SPS capacity development and the wider landscape.”

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)