STDF Side Event | 93rd General Session of the WOAH World Assembly of Delegates

Background

Effective animal health systems are central to safe trade, livelihoods, food security and economic resilience. WOAH international standards provide a science-based framework to prevent and control animal diseases while facilitating trade. The World Bank World Development Report 2025 highlights that standards are not just technical requirements but a springboard for development — requiring countries to invest in capacity and use them strategically to drive growth and inclusion. However, many developing and least-developed countries face persistent challenges in securing the financing needed to implement standards and unlock market opportunities. This represents a missed opportunity for high-impact investment.

With a spotlight on the STDF's role in catalysing innovative safe trade solutions, this side event will explore how evidence-based decision-making, public-private partnerships and innovative approaches to financing can raise investments in animal health that facilitate safe trade. It will bring together insights and perspectives from policymakers, development actors and industry representatives about what works on the ground to leverage investments that strengthen veterinary systems and reduce barriers to regional and international trade.

Objectives

The event aims to:

• Showcase practical experiences and lessons learned from the STDF's work and partner initiatives to strengthen veterinary services and facilitate safe trade.
• Explore how to scale up work to expand the uptake of international standards and unlock market access, including by mobilizing more financing and investment.

Target audience

This event is open to all delegates and observers attending the 92nd WOAH General Assembly, including:

• Government representatives and veterinary authorities, particularly from developing and least-developed countries
• Policymakers and trade officials involved in SPS measures and standards implementation
• Development partners and international/regional organizations supporting animal health, trade and capacity building
• Private sector actors, including agribusinesses and companies engaged in regional and international trade, as well as financiers

Speakers

• Christiane Wolff, Counsellor and Secretary of the WTO Committee on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures, WTO
• Dr Jaime Romero, Specialist for the Andean Region, IICA and former STDF Developing Country Expert
• Dr Ashley Jordan Director/Senior Principal Veterinary Officer, Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer, Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
• Ian Drake, Regulatory Affairs Director (Cargill Food), SSAFE 

Moderator

• Marlynne Hopper, STDF (moderator and short opening presentation)
   

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