G/SPS/GEN/1581  
 
16 October  2017 
(17-5560) Page: 1/6 
Committee on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures    
 
 UPDATE ON THE OPERAT ION OF THE STANDARDS  AND 
TRADE DEVELOPMENT FA CILITY  
NOTE BY THE SECRETAR IAT1 
1  OVERVIEW  
1.1.  The Standards and Trade Development Facility (STD F) supports developing countries to 
implement international food safety, animal and plant health stan dards and gain and maintain 
access to market s. The STDF is a global coordination and knowledge platform. It identifies and 
disseminates good practice, leverages resources and works on coordinated, coherent solutions to 
enhance SPS capacity building. In add ition, the STDF provides support and funding for the 
development and implementation of collaborative and innovative SPS projects.  
1.2.  The STDF was established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations 
(FAO), the World Organisation for Anim al Health (OIE), the World Bank, the World Health 
Organization (WHO) an d the WTO , which houses and manages the STDF Secretariat and Trust 
Fund. Many other international and regional organizations involved in SPS  capacity building , 
donors cont ributing to th e STDF trust fund and developing country experts  participate actively in 
STDF's work. This also includes the Secretariats of the Codex Alimentarius Commission and the 
International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).  
1.3.  This document provides a brief update o n STDF activities and projects since the last meeting 
of the SPS Committee in July 2017. Delegates who would like to know more about the STDF are 
encouraged to visit the STDF website to view the projects and download STDF briefing notes and 
publications. D elegates are encouraged to subscribe to the STDF mailing list 
(http://www.standardsfacility.org ). 
1.4.  The next STDF Working Group meeting will be held on 30-31 October 2017 . 
2  OPTIONS, COSTS  AND BENEFITS OF FMD CONTROL  
2.1.  On 1 November 2017  (at 13.30), on the margins of the SPS Committee, the STDF will hold 
an Information Session on options, costs and benefits of Foot -and-Mouth Disease (FMD) control in 
the context of livestock trade. This information session will pre sent findings of two studies, which 
were conducted in 2017 by the Royal Veterinary College, as part of STDF Project Preparation 
Grants (PPGs) in Tanzania and Zimbabwe:  
 Feasibility of establishing a fresh meat producing compartment in Zimbabwe 
(STDF/PPG/550 );2 and 
 Cost-Benefit Analysis for establishing a Foot and Mouth Disease Free Zone or Compartment 
in Tanzania (STDF/PPG/516) .3 
2.2.  The program is attached as Annex 1. Further information is also available on the STDF 
website.4 
                                                
1 This document has been prepared under the Secretariat's own responsibility and is without prejudice 
to the positions of Members or to their rights and obligations under the WTO . 
2 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/PPG -550. 
3 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/PPG -516. G/SPS/GEN/1581  
 
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  3  GOOD REGULATORY PRAC TICE  
3.1.  The STDF  is carrying out work to analyse how Good Regulatory Practice (GRP) can be used to 
improve the quality and effectiveness of SPS measures in developing countries, in order to ensure 
health protection and facilitate safe trade . Good regulatory practices are d efined as internationally 
recognized processes, systems, tools and methods to improve the quality of regulations and 
ensure that regulatory outcomes are effective, transparent, inclusive and sustained (World Bank, 
2015).  
3.2.  STDF's work in this area aims to pr ovide guidance to ensure that SPS measures are "fit for 
purpose" and that they avoid the creation of non -tariff barriers. It will seek to identify good 
practices and recommendations to enhance the development and implementation of SPS measures 
in order to:  
 Strengthen the effectiveness of regulatory interventions;  
 Improve compliance with international standards and the WTO SPS Agreement;  
 Ensure health protection while facilitating trade.  
3.3.  A survey was recently circulated to officials of government ministries/ agencies/departments 
responsible for food safety, animal and plant health in developing countries. The purpose was to 
gather information on if and how SPS agencies in developing countries are applying GRPs to 
strengthen the development, implementation and review of SPS measures. Information obtained 
will be compiled in a short document  which will be shared with r espondents  and discussed at the 
STDF Working Group on 30-31 October 2017 . The findings will complement regular data 
collection exercises and work o n measuring regulatory per formance within OECD countries.  
3.4.  For further information  on this work , please see the STDF website including a  concept note 
and a link to the survey.5 
4  TRANSITIONING FROM P APER -BASED TO AUTOMATED S PS SYSTEMS  
4.1.  During the 6th Aid for T rade Global Review, on 12 July 2017, the STDF organi zed a brief high -
level information session  on the current state of play in SPS e -cert and more generally  on the use 
of new technologies in the context of SPS compliance and trade. Over 250 participants at tended 
the session . Presentations , as well as a briefing note, are available on the STDF website.6 
Key points raised include : 
 Paperless SPS systems can improve traceability throughout SPS supply chains, reduce 
food wastage, reduce trade times and costs, re duce fraudulent certificates, and bui ld 
trust among trading partners;   
 E-cert c an reduce certificatio n times from 15 days to 4 hours;  Codex, IPPC and OIE are  
creating guidelines, platforms  and capacity building tools to facilitate e-cert, 
complementing the modernising reforms encouraged by the WTO T rade Facilitation  
Agreement;  
 Certain conditions must be in place to enable full d igitisation across all agencies; public 
and private sectors must leverage existing solutions to improve data tr ansfer and 
informati on exchange; financing models need to be made available to devel oping 
countries to support the  effective transition to automated SPS systems.  
5  PRIORITIZING SPS INV ESTMENTS FOR MARKET ACCESS (P -IMA)  
5.1.  STDF's user guide "Prioritizing SPS Investments for Market Access (P -IMA): A framework to 
inform and improve SPS decision -making processes" was published in 2016. To date, the 
framework has been used to prioritize SPS investment options in several developing countries that 
differ considerably in the scale and dive rsity of their food and agricultural exports, and the range 
and magnitude of SPS capacity -building needs.  Experiences highlight several benefits, for instance 
to facilitate public -private dialogue on SPS matters, increase political awareness about the bene fits 
                                                                                                                                                  
4 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/info -session -costs-and-benefits -fmd-control -context -livestock -
trade . 
5 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/good -regulatory -practi ce. 
6 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/A4T_Review_2017 . G/SPS/GEN/1581  
 
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  of strengthening SPS capacity, inform and improve national SPS planning and decision -making 
processes, support project design and leverage additional funding resources.  
5.2.  In March 2017, the STDF Working Group approved a request from Madagascar to apply the 
P-IMA framework and prioritize SPS investment needs in key value chains with export potential. 
Regional trade bodies have also expressed a strong interest in the framework. The Common 
Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) recently submitted a  project application to 
utilize the P -IMA framework in helping selected COMESA member states to prioritize and 
mainstream SPS investments into sector investments plans for agriculture, trade, climate change 
and the environment. This would include the Compr ehensive Africa Agricu lture Development Plan 
(CAADP).  
5.3.  The P -IMA user guide, as well as a short briefing note, is available for download on the 
STDF  website.7 Delegates who would like to have more information on how to use and benefit from 
the P-IMA framewo rk are encouraged to contact the STDF Secretariat.  
6  ADVOCACY AND OUTREAC H 
6.1.  As part of its role to share available know -how and SPS -related good practice, the STDF 
regularly issues briefing notes on issues of interest. In 2017, briefing note s were issued o n: 
(i) how STDF projects are improving the private sector's capacity to implement SPS measures and 
take a dvantage of trade opportunities8; and (ii) SPS e -cert.9 Recently, the STDF also issued a 
background paper to provide practitioners in the SPS area involve d in trade transactions with basic 
information on the concept of paperless trade, the role of SPS e -cert, and how it relates to other 
trade procedures.10 
6.2.  The STDF also continues to prepare and issue project results st ories, highlighting the results 
and impa cts of STDF projects on the ground in Africa, Asia and Latin America.11 
On 26-28 September 2017, during the WTO Public Forum on "Trade: Behind the Headlines", the 
STDF hosted a booth with exhibits and explanatory material from projects and its work on cross -
cutting SPS issues.  
6.3.  STDF's YouTube channel includes links to all STDF films such as "Safe Trade Solutions" and 
"Cocoa: a sweet value chain". It now also includes links to many o ther relevant SPS film material . 
7  VIRTUAL LIBRARY  
7.1.  The STDF Virtual Library12 is an online information repository providing quick and easy online 
access to a variety of information resources focused on SPS technical cooperation and capacity 
building. Countries are encouraged to submit relevant documents to the Secretariat 
(STDFSecretariat@wto.org ) for inclusion in the Library  including: project documents and final 
reports, training materials, project evaluations/reviews, SPS capacity needs assessments, cost -
benefit analyses, case studies, relevant research papers and other articles on SPS capacity 
building. The Library complements and includes links to other information systems and databases 
developed and maintained by STDF partners, donors and other organizations.  
8  PROJECT DEVELOPMENT  
8.1.  The S TDF provides advice and support to applicants on issues related to SPS project 
development and finances project preparation grants (PPGs). PPGs, normally up to US$50,000, are 
available to help applicants articulate their SPS needs and develop technically s ound and 
sustainable project proposals. PPGs can be requested to: (i) apply SPS capacity evaluation and 
prioritization tools; (ii) prepare feasibility studies before project development to assess the 
potential impact and economic viability of proposals in terms of costs and benefits; and 
(iii) develop project proposals for funding by donors and/or the STDF.  
                                                
7 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/p -ima. 
8 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/partnering -private -sector . 
9 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/going -paperless -sps-e-certification . 
10 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/sites/default/files/SPS_Ecert_Backgroundpaper.pdf . 
11 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/stdf -results -series . 
12 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/library . G/SPS/GEN/1581  
 
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  8.2.  A total of 86 PPGs  have been approved and funded by the STDF since its inception. 
Information on on -going and completed PPGs is available on the STDF we bsite.13 
8.3.  In 2017, the STDF received 29 applications for PPGs. In March 2017, the STDF Working 
Group approved five new PPGs. Depending on financial resources av ailable in the STDF trust fund, 
the STDF Working Group may approve additional PPGs for funding at its next meeting on 
30-31 October 2017 . 
9  PROJECT IMPLEMENTATI ON 
9.1.  Grant financing for projects is also available from the STDF. Favourable consideration is given 
to projects that: (i) identify, develop and dissemination good practice in SPS -related technical 
cooperation, including the development and application of innovative and replicable approaches; 
(ii) apply regional approaches to address SPS constraints; and/or (iii) implement collaborative 
approaches across food safety, animal and plant health and trade . 
9.2.  Beneficiaries must contribute to the project from their own resources, either in the form of 
financial or in -kind contributions such as staff time, use of premises, vehicles or other existing 
assets.  
9.3.  A total of 80 projects  have been approved for STDF fun ding since its inception. Information 
on on -going and completed projects  is available on the STDF website.14 
9.4.  In 2017, the STDF received 26 applications for projects. In March 2017, the STDF Working 
Group approved four new projects. Depending on financial re sources available in the STDF trust 
fund, the STDF Working Group may approve additional projects for funding at it s next meeting on 
30-31 October 2017 . 
9.5.  Since its inception, the STDF has devoted 66% of its project and PPG resources to LDCs and 
other low inc ome countries (OLICs), as shown below in Figure 1. The STDF continues to meet its 
target to devote at least 40% of its project and PPG resources to LDCs and OLICs. In particular, 
the allocation of PPG resources to LDCs and OLICs remains high (i.e. 75% of t he overall budget for 
PPGs).  
Figure 1: STDF projects and PPGs (US$)  Figure 2: STDF Projects and PPGs (number)  
       
  
9.6.  Figure 2 above indicates that 49% of the number of STDF projects and PPGs has gone to 
Sub-Saharan Africa, 23% to Asia, and 16% to Latin America and the Caribbean. In addition, 
10% of STDF projects and PPGs are classified as global.  
9.7.  Applications for STDF funding can be made at any point in the year but should be received at 
least 60 working days in advance of each Working Group meeting in o rder to be considered at that 
meeting. The next deadline for the submission of applications is 22 December  2017 . Further 
information on eligibility criteria, application forms, etc. is available on the STDF website.  
                                                
13 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/projectpreparationgrants . 
14 See: http://www.standardsfacility.org/projectgrants . G/SPS/GEN/1581  
 
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  RECOMMENDED STEPS TO FOLLOW WHEN SEEKING  PG OR PPG FUNDING 
OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE STDF:  
 
1. Browse the webpages for information (aims, eligibility criteria, etc.) on: 
 PPGs: http://www.standardsfacility.org/project -preparatio n-grants    
 PGs: http://www.standardsfacility.org/project -grants   
2. View examples of  previous  projects : 
 PPGs: http://www. standardsfacility.org/projectpreparationgrants  
 PGs: http://www.standardsfacility.org/projectgrants   
3. Carefully read the guidance note for applicants:  
http://standardsfacility.org/sites/default/files/STDFGuidanceNote_English_FINAL_2015.pdf  
4. Consult relevant stakeholders in the country/region.  
5. Send a brief concept note of your potential pro ject for feedback on eligibility and 
likelihood of funding  (STDFSecretariat@wto.org ). 
6. Fill out an application form and submit it electronically before the deadline:  
 PPGs: 
http://standardsfacility.org/sites/default/files/PPGApplicationForm_English_FINAL_
2015.doc  
 PGs: 
http://standardsfacility.org/sites/default/files/PGApplicationForm_English_FINAL_2
015.doc  
 G/SPS/GEN/1581  
 
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  ANNEX 1  
Options, costs and benefits of Foot -and-Mouth Disease (FMD) 
control in the context of livestock trade:  
Findings from STDF studies in Tanzan ia and Zimbabwe  
 
STDF Information Session  
Room E, Centre William Rappard, WTO  
Wednesday 1 November 2017  
13.30 -15.00  
 
 
Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) can have an important impact on livestock populations worldwide 
by reducing livestock productivity and affect ing food security. At the same time, the presence, or 
even threat, of FMD has a major impact on trade, preventing access to international markets. 
Effectively controlling and managing FMD depends on significantly improved capacity in national 
veterinary se rvices, as well as other actors in livestock value chains. It also requires substantial 
resources. Different options exist to control and manage FMD, in line with the OIE Terrestrial 
Animal Health Code (TAHC). Different strategies also exist to export live stock products from areas 
with FMD. In general, these options are costly, and investments need to be balanced against 
resulting benefits.  
 
This information session will present findings on the costs, benefits and feasibility of the following 
two studies, which were conducted in 2017 by the Royal Veterinary College, as part of STDF 
Project Preparation Grants (PPGs) in Tanzania and Zimbabwe:  
 
 Feasibility of establishing a fresh meat producing compartment in Zimbabwe 
(STDF/PPG/550 ) 
 
 Cost-Benefit Analysis for establishing a Foot and Mouth Disease Free Zone or Compartment 
in Tanzania ( STDF/PPG/516 ) 
 
The session will take place in English (no interpretation is available)  
 
Tentative Programme  
13:30: Welcome remarks, STDF Secretariat  
13:40: Keynote presentation, Barbara Häsler, Royal Veterinary College , UK 
14:10: Panel discussion: Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Latin American country (tbc)  
14:30: Q&A  
 
 
Light sandwich lunch served outside the meeting room from 13:00  
For more information, contact: STDFSecretariat@wto.or g 
 
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