Workshop to discuss regional food and nutrition security program

Since April 16, 2024, the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) has convened a three-day workshop in Antananarivo to develop a regional program for Food and Nutritional Security in the Indian Ocean (SANOI). The initiative aims to ensure that all member countries adhere to international sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards for agricultural and animal products.

While the absence of sanitary and phytosanitary controls may not immediately affect individuals, it poses notable economic hurdles, especially concerning potential intra-regional trade among Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) member nations. Key sectors like corn and poultry are central to these discussions. The workshop has concentrated on devising suitable and synchronized SPS measures. Specialists have pinpointed potential risks and proposed priority actions, underlining the significance of robust regulations governing the importation and utilization of crops.

In the Indian Ocean region, the SANOI program aims to reduce malnutrition and food insecurity. Priority is therefore given to exchanges of agricultural and agri-food products, encouraging shorter supply circuits between island states and the development of the agri-food industry. The EU is funding this program to the tune of 16 million EUR under the 11th EDF, and it will run for 5 years (March 2020 – March 2025).