Better quality and safety standards in Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon
In October 2024, the UK Trade Partnerships (UKTP) Programme organized a series of targeted workshops in Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon to show how food makers can meet international quality and safety standards.
It’s part of UKTP’s mission to offer better trade opportunities for developing countries through Economic Partnership Agreements, which offer preferential access to the UK market.
In Côte d’Ivoire, the workshops focused on cashews and tropical fruits. Local companies can document that they comply with international standards by applying for certifications in Quality Management Systems (formally known as ISO 9001:2015) and Food Safety Management Systems (known as FSSC 22000 Version 6).
The sessions trained auditors, consultants, and quality managers from agro-processing businesses and from key institutions like CODINORM, the local standards body. Participants explored practical applications of the standards, including case studies, risk assessment strategies, and compliance tools. Participants left the course better able to support companies in implementing robust management systems for global competitiveness.
Similarly, in Cameroon, the workshops emphasized how meeting the safety and quality standards can benefit the local food sector. With participation from the Norms and Quality Agency (ANOR) and food companies, the sessions reinforced the importance of structured management approaches to meet UK and EU market requirements. Participants praised the interactive methods, including real-life simulations and group exercises, which deepened their understanding of quality and food safety principles.
These workshops underscore the UKTP Programme’s commitment to fostering sustainable trade practices by enabling businesses to meet rigorous global standards, thus unlocking access to lucrative markets. The positive feedback highlights the transformative potential of quality and safety certifications for local enterprises.
About United Kingdom Trade Partnerships Programme (UKTP)
UKTP is implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC), and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. UKTP aims to increase trade from developing countries to the United Kingdom and the European Union by maximizing the benefits of UK and EU Economic Partnership Agreements and the UK's Developing Countries Trading Scheme.
UKTP implements various trade promotion and capacity building activities around the world at different stages of the value chain. UKTP works in partnership with government agencies, private sector organizations, public sector institutions, small and medium-sized enterprises and other local stakeholders.
