Siem Reap, Cambodia – September 19, 2025 – A two-day workshop on policy dialogue for developing a third-party laboratory accreditation program was held in Siem Reap, Cambodia, from September 18–19, 2025, organized by the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI).
The event, organized under the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)-funded project “Strengthening Phytosanitary Compliance to Boost Seed Trade in the Asia-Pacific”, brought together experts from the National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs) of the participating countries—Bangladesh, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Nepal, the Philippines, and Viet Nam—along with representatives from STDF, private sector organizations such as East-West Seed, the Australian Seed Potato Industry Certification Authority (AUSPICA), and the Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII). The workshop also engaged project implementing partners, including the International Seed Federation (ISF), American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), Asia and Pacific Seed Alliance (APSA), and CropLife Asia.
The workshop provided a platform for dialogue on how governments and the private sector can work together to implement International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures No. 45 (ISPM 45), which sets out the framework for authorizing third-party laboratories to conduct phytosanitary testing. Participants discussed the benefits of third-party accreditation, implementation challenges and opportunities, shared experiences, and explored roadmaps to strengthen public-private partnerships (PPPs) in implementing ISPM 45 to support safer and more efficient seed trade in the region.
In his opening remarks, H.E. Dr. Hean Vanhan, Secretary of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), Cambodia, stated:
“It is a pleasure for Cambodia to host this event. Through this project, Cambodia has had the opportunity to strengthen our phytosanitary systems, build the capacity of our technical teams, and learn from our neighbors.”
A key highlight of the event was the launch of the “Seed Portal Prototype” by Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, Executive Director of APAARI, which provides users with easy access to the latest information on phytosanitary regulations in Bangladesh, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Nepal, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam.
While explaining the features of the portal, Dr. Shivendra Bajaj from APSA stated:
“We want this portal to be the go-to platform not just for traders, but also for NPPOs of other countries who want to access information on policies and regulations.”
Representatives of the NPPOs expressed their gratitude to APAARI, STDF, ISF, and all technical partners for organizing this workshop and highlighted the key takeaways.
Ms. Jessa Blesilda G. Antero, NPQSD, BPI, Philippines, representing NPPOs, stated:
“The key takeaway of the workshop is to understand the critical importance of inclusive stakeholder engagement in building a transparent, credible, and sustainable regulatory framework to implement ISPM 45.”
The workshop concluded with a strong commitment from all NPPOs to continue strengthening collaboration with private sector stakeholders and technical partners, recognizing the importance of public–private partnerships. Moving forward, the project partners will focus on addressing current legislative and technical challenges in the implementation of ISPM 45 within their respective countries.
About the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)
The STDF is a global multi-stakeholder partnership that facilitates safe and inclusive trade. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the World Bank Group, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO),which houses and manages the partnership. In support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the STDF responds to evolving SPS needs, drives inclusive trade and contributes to sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, food security and resilience to climate change.
About the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI)
Founded in 1990 by the FAO, the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) is a membership-based, apolitical, and multi-stakeholder organization that promotes agricultural research and innovation across the Asia-Pacific region. APAARI unites National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS), international research centres, universities, NGOs, and private-sector actors from 33 countries. Its mission is to strengthen agri-food research and innovation systems for sustainable development and food security in the region.
