Safety and quality of fish products is of great importance for many countries in the light of increased demand, consumers' safety requirements and the globalization of fish trade. Developing countries cover over 50% of this trade, whereas developed countries account for more than 80% of total imports in value terms. Safety and quality standards are expanding in conformity with the WTO agreements on sanitary and phytosanitary measures (SPS) and technical barriers to trade (TBT).

Developing countries need to meet these requirements to maintain and strengthen their market share, and actively participate in international deliberations under the auspices of Codex Alimentarius. They require international assistance to strengthen national and regional capacities. Assistance to the fish industry and its support institutions, through training and technical advice, in the assessment and management of fish safety and quality

The Fisheries and Aquaculture Department supports these requirements by:

• Developing appropriate Technical Guidelines
• Supporting training and capacity building in risk assessment, Good Aquacultural, Manufacturing and Hygienic practices (GAP, GMP, GHP) and HACCP

These activities primarily benefit fish quality controllers from the industry and the inspection services, fish quality and safety advisors, trainers, researchers and extension people.