Food safety inspection systems in participating countries still rely to varying degrees on paper-based processes, fragmented systems and manually updated tools. This can make it harder for authorities to target inspections where risks are highest and use resources efficiently. The project aims to improve the safety and efficiency of agrifood trade by supporting national food safety authorities in adopting digital risk management tools, improving the efficiency, accuracy and transparency of food safety inspection and surveillance systems, and facilitating safer, more predictable agrifood trade.
Participating countries have already engaged in the development of domestic risk-based inspection systems (RBIS) through previous IICA-led initiatives, using a harmonized methodology that supports regional alignment. However, implementation remains uneven and often relies on paper-based processes or isolated Excel tools requiring manual updates. This limits authorities’ ability to use inspection data effectively, target resources according to risk and share information across systems. All seven countries share the need to digitize and scale up these systems to improve SPS risk management and facilitate safe trade. Rather than starting from scratch, the project will build on existing systems and experience, supporting Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Peru in advancing institutional digitalization, interoperability and the sustainable use of RBIS. National food safety authorities, food inspectors and technical staff are the project’s main direct beneficiaries, while private sector actors are expected to benefit from clearer regulatory processes, faster clearance times and greater predictability in inspections.
Evidence-based indicators on digital readiness, gender, trade, and environmental sustainability of RBIS are developed and validated for regional use.
A diagnostic assessment of national food safety inspection systems, including import and export controls, will be conducted in all target countries, covering trade, digital capabilities, gender equity and environmental sustainability. The findings will provide a baseline for developing regionally relevant indicators to track improvements in trade flows and the performance of food safety inspection systems over the life of the project.
A harmonized regional RBIS framework and national risk algorithms are developed, documented and validated for use by national agencies.
A harmonized regional framework for risk-based inspection and surveillance of agrifood imports and domestic production will be developed, building on previous RBIS experiences in participating countries. This will help authorities focus inspections and resources on higher-risk products and operators. The framework will include tariff codes and food categories based on food safety risk, alongside national risk algorithms adapted to the needs of beneficiary countries.
A modular, interoperable digital system for agrifood inspection management is developed and validated.
A modular and interoperable digital RBIS system will be developed to help authorities manage domestic, import and export food safety inspections according to risk. It will be adapted to participating agencies and designed to connect with relevant national customs and SPS systems, incorporating risk intelligence and data analytics. The system will also support digital inspection checklists and the collection and analysis of inspection data. Key deliverables will include a prototype incorporating the features identified by participating countries, together with manuals and technical guides for the digital modular RBIS system.
Inspectors and regulatory officials are trained in digital and AI literacy and risk-based food safety inspection methods of agrifood products.
A structured training curriculum will be developed and delivered to inspectors, national authorities, IT personnel and relevant industry stakeholders to build the skills needed to adopt and sustain the digital system. Training will combine technical manuals, interactive guides and online learning modules with in-person and field-based training. The curriculum will be implemented through pilot programmes in at least 50% of participating countries.
