IPPC (FAO): from phytosanitary standards to practical implementation

In brief

• From 18 to 20 May 2026, COLEAD through AGRINFO and FM+ programmes attended the IPPC Implementation and Capacity Development Committee as an observer.
• At the heart of the discussions: implementation of international standards (ISPMs), capacity development, ePhyto, national reporting obligations, systems approaches and the Africa Phytosanitary Programme.
• The leading message: move from standards and strategies to practical implementation.
• On 20 May, COLEAD presented its plant health activities during the innovation session, alongside CABI, STDF, EFSA and TradeMark Africa.
• An engagement in support of stronger phytosanitary systems, compliant with EU requirements and safeguarding market access.

Issues directly relevant to exporting countries

Discussions focused on the implementation of International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs), capacity development needs, ePhyto, national reporting obligations, systems approaches and the Africa Phytosanitary Programme. These topics are decisive for countries exporting fruits, vegetables and other plant products to international markets.

From standards to concrete action

The strongest message from the meeting: it is now time to move from standards and strategies to practical implementation. Several areas of work are advancing towards this goal — an updated Phytosanitary Capacity Evaluation (PCE), further work on systems approaches, improved national reporting, and the continued expansion of ePhyto as a global operational service. The sustainability of ePhyto was also discussed, including its governance and funding challenges.

Systems approaches are gaining ground

The meeting confirmed the growing importance of systems approaches in international trade. Following the IPPC workshop held in Santiago, Chile, in December 2025, further work is expected to improve guidance, tools, training materials and practical implementation support for ISPM 14.

COLEAD at the innovation session

On 20 May, COLEAD presented its plant health activities during the innovation session, alongside other observer organisations such as CABI, STDF, EFSA and TradeMark Africa. This was an opportunity to highlight COLEAD’s contribution to strengthening phytosanitary systems, supporting compliance with EU requirements and helping partner countries maintain market access.

Continuing to add value

The meeting confirmed the importance of continued engagement with IPPC processes. It also highlighted several areas where COLEAD can strengthen its contribution: supporting capacity development for stronger and more resilient phytosanitary systems.

This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union; and by the AGRINFO programme, implemented by COLEAD and funded by the European Union (EU). This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.