OTTAWA, Canada – In a significant move to bolster sustainable economic growth and food security, Canada has announced a contribution of CAD 250,000 (approximately CHF 158,000) to the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) for the year 2024. This funding aims to enhance the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) capacities of developing economies and least-developed countries (LDCs), allowing them to engage more effectively in global trade.
The World Trade Organization (WTO) director-general lauded Canada for its generous support, highlighting its importance in driving agricultural innovation, facilitating safe trade, and ensuring global food security. “Canada’s longstanding commitment is essential for fostering inclusive trade and enabling developing countries to participate actively in the global marketplace,” she stated.
Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food emphasized the nation’s dedication to improving global food security, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable economic growth. He asserted that this investment will create opportunities for developing countries to strengthen their trading relationships and enhance their competitiveness while supporting a safe global food system.
This contribution underscores Canada’s ongoing commitment to the STDF’s mission, bringing its total donations to CHF 7.4 million since 2001. Over the past 22 years, Canada has provided more than CHF 15 million to various WTO trust funds.
The STDF is a collaborative global partnership dedicated to promoting safe and inclusive trade, established through the cooperation of multiple international organizations. In line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the STDF addresses evolving needs and supports initiatives that contribute to sustainable economic growth, food security, and poverty alleviation.
Developing economies and least-developed countries are encouraged to apply for SPS project and project preparation grants offered by the STDF. Currently, the STDF has funded over 250 projects benefiting LDCs and other developing nations.
