Review of the National Framework on the Import and Export of Animals and Animal Products
Description of project
The objective of the assignment is to support the Government of Maldives in developing a robust national biosecurity framework that aligns with international standards and enhances control over the movement of animals and animal products. The consultancy aims to:
- Review and revise existing national regulations concerning the import and export of live animals and animal products;
- Propose a comprehensive national legal and institutional framework for animal health and biosecurity;
- Develop a risk-based certification system for the export of animals and animal products;
- Design and implement a national disease surveillance program;
- Provide tailored training and capacity building for public and private stakeholders, including veterinarians and biosecurity technicians;
- Ensure compliance with international standards and obligations under WTO-SPS, WOAH, IPPC, and Codex Alimentarius;
- Strengthen coordination mechanisms among relevant government agencies
The consultancy is structured around three technical pillars: regulatory reform, certification and compliance systems, and surveillance and monitoring mechanisms. It also emphasizes a participatory approach, including consultation workshops, stakeholder engagement, and validation of outputs to ensure national ownership.
Services provided
- Conducted a comprehensive review of the national legal and regulatory framework on the import and export of animals and animal products in the Maldives.
- Benchmarked national regulations and procedures against international standards, including WOAH, SPS Agreement (WTO), IPPC, and Codex Alimentarius.
- Facilitated stakeholder consultations with key actors, including ministries, regulators, veterinarians, and private sector representatives.
- Developed a risk-based certification system for the export of animals and animal products, including operating procedures and institutional arrangements.
- Designed a national surveillance program for animal diseases and biosecurity threats, including a list of priority pathogens and SOPs for detection and reporting.
- Provided legal drafting support to update and harmonize relevant legislation in line with global standards.
- Delivered capacity-building training for technical staff and regulators in certification, inspection, and biosecurity procedures.
- Facilitated validation workshops and knowledge transfer sessions with national authorities and stakeholders.
