SAARC Regional Workshop on Agricultural Trade and Food Fortification Kicks Off in Kathmandu

Kathmandu: A three-day SAARC Regional Workshop on “Fostering Regional Agricultural Trade including Fortified Foods through Harmonized Food Safety Standards in South Asia” began in Kathmandu on August 27, 2025.

The workshop is jointly organized by the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) in collaboration with Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development and UNICEF Regional Office for South Asia. Delegates from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka are taking part.

The event aims to explore opportunities for harmonizing food safety standards to enhance regional trade in fortified foods and address micronutrient deficiencies. Experts, professionals, and academics from the region will share insights and develop a roadmap for regional cooperation.

Dr. Govinda Prasad Sharma, Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, inaugurated the workshop as Chief Guest. The session was attended by officials from the SAARC Secretariat, SAARC Agriculture Centre, UNICEF ROSA, and the Department of Agriculture, Nepal.

Around 45 participants are attending the workshop, which will conclude with policy recommendations and joint action plans to promote regional trade and strengthen food fortification initiatives in South Asia.