The Codex Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean (CCLAC) concluded its "Regional Workshop for the Socialization of the Work of the Codex Alimentarius in the CCLAC Countries 2022-2024", organized by the Regional Coordinator, Ecuador. The purpose of the workshop was to share experiences and activities related to Codex work among the different countries of the region, such as strengthening the capacities of national committees, initiatives to promote inclusiveness within each of the countries, holding events, the participation of civil society, and addressing difficulties and ways of dealing with challenges.

The workshop also served as a platform for spreading messages on the importance of country participation not only in regional affairs, but also in the work being done in coordination with the Codex Secretariat.

The Regional Coordinator was pleased to see the efforts and progress made in implementing the Codex Strategic Plan 2020–2024. The countries also expressed great interest in continuing, strengthening and advancing the development of science-based international reference standards, and in supporting and participating in the various areas of Codex work.

The workshop lasted 6 days, and 31 countries participated as speakers, with approximately 60 delegates per day. The information provided will be an important input for the development of the agenda for the 23rd CCLAC meeting, to be held in virtual format, in July 2024.

Rommel Betancourt, Regional Coordinator, Ecuador, said:"I would like to express my gratitude and congratulations to all CCLAC Member Countries that actively participated in the workshop, where we were able to share experiences, inspire and learn from the experiences of our region. The Latin America and the Caribbean region is increasingly consolidating itself as an important player in the process of harmonization of international science-based standards, promoting global consensus".

Photo © Ecuador, AGROCALIDAD