With the goal of improving market access for the nation’s exports of Agricultural and Health products, Nigeria is set to establish the Standards Trade Development Facility (STDF), which will unite governmental and private sector players.
According to the statement released from the Industry, Trade and Investment Ministry, adding that the Technical assistance and capacity building support are to be provided by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC).
While assisting Nigerian farmers in producing agricultural products that would have seamless market access overseas, the country requested the STDF, and Capacity Building Support from the WTO, sequel to the growing concern over Nigeria’s agricultural exports being repeatedly rejected, particularly by the European Union.
The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, stressed the need for diversification on her arrival in Abuja, Nigeria while pointed out that this requirement could be greatly enhanced by exporting various goods related to trade, health, and agriculture.
Noting how pleased she was to be back home Okonjo-Iweala said, “these are hard times, and we are here to see what we can do to diversify Nigeria economy through export.
“It is fantastic to be back home towards the STDF programme with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to see what we can do to diversify the economy through export in order for the country to move forward with the tough times.”
International sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) criteria, as stated in the WTO’s SPS Agreement, are supported by the STDF for developing nations. Agri-food markets require exporters to adhere strict guidelines for the health of animals, plants, and food.
To promote sustainable economic growth, the fight against poverty, and food security, the objective is to establish long-lasting SPS capacity in emerging nations.
Vice President Sen. Kashim Shettima (GCON), Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, and a few other high ranking government officials will be present for the official introduction of the STDF, later this week in Abuja.