WTO Director-General Roberto Azevêdo said: “I welcome Canada's latest contribution. 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.”

Canada's Chief Agriculture Negotiator, Frédéric Seppey, 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 17 million (CHF 12,250,000) to WTO trust funds over the past 15 years.

The STDF is a global coordination platform that brings together leading trade, health and agriculture experts worldwide to share knowledge, tools and good practice and strengthen the effectiveness of SPS technical assistance provided to developing countries. The STDF also provides support and funding for the development and implementation of collaborative and innovative projects that promote compliance with international SPS requirements. The STDF is housed and managed by the WTO.