This programme was set up to help developing countries improve their expertise and their capacity to analyse and implement international standards on food safety and animal and plant health. The STDF is a joint initiative of the World Trade Organization, the World Health Organization, the World Bank, the World Organization for Animal Health, and the Food and Agriculture Organization.  

“Compliance with international standards can be an obstacle for developing countries to fully participate in the multilateral trading system. I welcome Germany’s donation which will improve developing countries’ analysis and implementation of international SPS standards” declared WTO Director General Pascal Lamy.

Germany’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the WTO Konrad Scharinger stated “For Germany, assisting developing countries to improve their capacity to participate in international trade is a key aim. This will enable them to gain and maintain market access. This is crucial as trade can play an important role in growth, development and poverty reduction”.