< Back About the Course This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Want to view and manage all your collections? Click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Here, you can make changes to your content, add new fields, create dynamic pages and more. Your collection is already set up for you with fields and content. Add your own content or import it from a CSV file. Add fields for any type of content you want to display, such as rich text, images, and videos. Be sure to click Sync after making changes in a collection, so visitors can see your newest content on your live site. Your Instructor Brian Chung This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. To manage all your collections, click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left.

ABOUT US The Food and Agriculture Export Alliance (FAEA) was created in May 2004 to achieve greater cooperation and effectiveness in market access among meat, poultry, dairy, feed grains and soybean organizations and private sector agriculture input providers. The broad goal of FAEA is to enhance cooperation among those agriculture sectors in developing food and agriculture export markets through reduced Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary (SPS) and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) constraints for the benefit of the U.S. grains, oilseeds and livestock sectors. The FAEA mission is to advance international food and feed safety laws and regulations in accordance with science-based international standards. FAEA has identified non-tariff barriers, especially those related to food and feed safety, as an area of common concern to its stakeholders (e.g., Codex Alimentarius Commission recommendations and standards). Non-tariff trade barriers are an area that has become increasingly important as other forms of trade constraints are being eliminated through multi-party trade agreements or bilateral negotiations. FAEA is unique in its membership, combining resources of a diverse group of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Market Access Program (MAP) participants, commodity groups, and private sector organizations that focus on food and feed safety goals through collective efforts. The FAEA activities have defined a new direction in cooperation among key components of U.S. agriculture. Collectively, FAEA members represent approximately 42% of U.S. agricultural exports. The application of non-scientific barriers to trade by foreign governments is common to all the products represented by FAEA members. The current members of the FAEA include: MAP Participants U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) U.S. Grains Council (USGC) USA Poultry & Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) Commodity Groups National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) North American Meat Institute (NAMI) Private Sector Input Providers Elanco Merck Animal Health FAEA activities are funded through a combination of FAEA membership funds and USDA’s Market Access Program as a Global Based Initiative (GBI). FAEA’s GBI is submitted on an annual basis via the USGC’s Unified Export Strategy (UES). Kent D. Sisson Executive Director Food and Agriculture Export Alliance FAEA Staff & Partners Board Members Contact Us

Workshop for the Development of a Roadmap for Industry Capacity Building in Food Safety in Kenya In August 2024, the Food and Agriculture Export Alliance (FAEA), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and TradeMark Africa, co-hosted a pivotal workshop in Nairobi, Kenya. This workshop represented a key milestone in FAEA's ongoing efforts to bolster food and feed safety standards in Kenya by laying the groundwork for a comprehensive capacity-building roadmap tailored to the private sector. The roadmap is intended to guide the development of specialized training programs, with plans to pilot these initiatives at local universities and other key institutions across the country. The workshop commenced with an address by the Honorable Dr. Paul Ronoh, Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development. Dr. Ronoh emphasized the critical role of collaboration between the government and the private sector in tackling food safety risks. He highlighted the Kenyan government's appreciation for the continued support from USDA and FAEA in driving the implementation of food safety initiatives, stating, "Food safety is central to public health, food security, and improved livelihoods through trade facilitation and sustainable development." He expressed optimism for the timely passage of the Food and Feed Safety Coordination Bill of 2023, which will provide a regulatory framework for strengthening Kenya's food safety system. Play Video Play Video 05:20 Kenya 2024 DAY 1: FAEA Public Sector Food and Feed Safety Capacity Building Roadmap Development Play Video Play Video 05:34 Kenya 2024 DAY 2: Public Sector Food and Feed Safety Capacity Building Roadmap Development Play Video Play Video 04:27 2024 DAY 3: FAEA Public Sector Food and Feed Safety Capacity Building Roadmap Development Workshop Building a Collaborative Framework for Food Safety The workshop gathered a diverse group of stakeholders, including industry associations, government representatives, and food and feed industry experts. This collaborative environment enabled participants to share their experiences and collectively identify critical capacity-building needs. Through facilitated discussions and breakout sessions, the group developed actionable steps toward addressing food safety challenges. The roadmap that emerged from the workshop focuses on four key capacity-building areas: Trade Rules and Compliance, Food Safety Inspection, Risk Management and Traceability. These areas were prioritized based on extensive input from private sector actors and alignment with the objectives of Kenya's new food safety legislation. Day one of the workshop concentrated on the current state of food safety in Kenya, with participants engaging in interactive discussions about the causes of unsafe food and identifying knowledge gaps in food business operations (FBOs). The second day built on this foundation, as participants delved into identifying training needs and designing industry-specific curricula. The workshop concluded with a focused session on developing a strategic roadmap that lays out the training and capacity-building initiatives required to address Kenya's food safety challenges. FAEA will now work closely with the workshop participants and other stakeholders to finalize the roadmap, ensuring it addresses the specific needs identified during the sessions. Once finalized, the roadmap will guide the rollout of targeted training programs aimed at improving the capacity of food business operators, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders in Kenya. The training programs will focus on practical, hands-on education in food safety, post-harvest practices and regulatory compliance, ensuring that stakeholders across the value chain have the knowledge and skills to meet both domestic and international food safety standards. The programs will also be integrated into local universities, creating a sustainable model for future capacity-building efforts. This initiative, driven by FAEA in partnership with USDA and TradeMark Africa, marks a significant step forward in elevating Kenya's food safety standards. By equipping the private sector with the tools and knowledge to address food safety risks, this program aims to foster greater compliance with food safety regulations, support public health, and enhance Kenya's competitiveness in domestic and export markets. Next Steps: From Roadmap to Implementation VIEW ALL PHOTOS

Anne Zaczek Who We Are Leadership Trade Data Contact Us Global Programs Director Mail Anne Zaczek serves as the Director of Global Programs for FAEA, where she supports implementation of initiatives that enhance global food and feed safety systems. With over 14 years of experience in organizational and international program management, Zaczek oversees FAEA’s capacity-building programs, regulatory advocacy efforts, and stakeholder engagement activities. Her work focuses on fostering international partnerships with local governments, universities, private organizations, and food and feed producer communities to address critical challenges and promote science-based international standards. Anne has also served as the Executive Director of the Heirloom Cacao Preservation Fund (HCP) since 2018, where she has provided steady leadership, enhancing the organization’s infrastructure, advancing capacity-building programs, and fostering strategic partnerships that have notably expanded its global impact. Anne's expertise spans mission-driven operations, grant acquisition, and fostering collaborations with local governments, universities, private organizations, and farming communities. Prior to joining HCP, Anne served as Manager of Global Development Programs at the U.S. Grains Council, overseeing multi-million-dollar projects across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Notably, she oversaw the Tanzania Food for Progress (FFP) program, which advanced the feed milling and poultry industries while strengthening industry associations, including the Tanzania Poultry Association and the Tanzania Feed Millers Association. She also played a key role in launching the Tanzania Poultry Show, now a cornerstone event for the region's poultry sector, further strengthening industry linkages. Anne also managed the Council’s UES submission for Market Access Programs (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) funding, which supported the expansion of U.S. agricultural exports of corn, barley and sorghum in key international markets. Furthermore, she oversaw the planning, program implementation, and financial oversight for global programs. Anne holds a Bachelor of Science in International Studies from the Rochester Institute of Technology with a focus in International Business and a minor in Marketing. Her commitment to strengthening organizations, building farmer capacity, and ensuring the sustainability of agricultural programs positions her as a transformational leader in the global agricultural community.

< Back About the Course This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Want to view and manage all your collections? Click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Here, you can make changes to your content, add new fields, create dynamic pages and more. Your collection is already set up for you with fields and content. Add your own content or import it from a CSV file. Add fields for any type of content you want to display, such as rich text, images, and videos. Be sure to click Sync after making changes in a collection, so visitors can see your newest content on your live site. Your Instructor Kelly Parker This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. To manage all your collections, click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left.

< Back FAEA Drives Key Progress in Kenya’s Food Safety Legislation March 2021 Building on the momentum from December 2020’s initial task force meeting in Naivasha, FAEA and USDA continued their support of Kenya’s food and feed safety regulatory overhaul by facilitating a crucial follow-up event in March 2021. This meeting marked a significant next step in Kenya’s journey toward enacting comprehensive food safety legislation that aligns with international best practices. The gathering brought together top officials from multiple ministries, technical experts and international advisors with the primary objective of drafting a food safety bill based on the updated policy established in the previous meetings. The discussions focused on refining the draft policy document and aligning it with Kenya’s current governance structures and international commitments. By emphasizing a risk-based approach grounded in science, the draft bill aims to address Kenya’s unique food safety challenges while setting a strong legal foundation for future regulatory efforts. A notable outcome of the meeting was the completion of a draft food safety bill that not only outlines clear mandates for various regulatory agencies but also resolves longstanding issues related to coordination and overlapping responsibilities. The task force members worked late into the evenings, demonstrating their dedication to producing a bill that balances regulatory clarity with effective food safety control measures. The participation of high-level government officials, including multiple Principal Secretaries, reaffirmed the commitment to a unified approach and the importance of collaboration across ministries. Presentations from U.S. food safety regulators and other international experts provided valuable insights, helping the task force navigate the complexities of creating a regulatory framework that is both nationally relevant and globally compliant. Looking ahead, the task force will focus on engaging parliamentary committees, finalizing the coordination framework, and conducting broader stakeholder consultations. These next steps are critical as Kenya moves closer to enacting a food safety law that not only safeguards public health but also positions the country for enhanced trade opportunities. Previous Next

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CODEX Codex Meetings Calendar Codex Worldwide, not all countries adopt or abide by Codex, World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) standards. In some cases, the standards are set without full knowledge and understanding of the science that supports or does not support them. In other cases, a country may adopt strict standards in order to protect domestic producers from competition with imported products. In both cases, the consequences can negatively impact trade (imports) and limit or negate access to those markets for U.S. food and agricultural products, including meat, poultry, soybeans, feed, feed grains and dairy products. Of course, this also can impact the use of inputs (e.g., vaccines, antibiotics, pesticides, feed additives, etc.) commonly recognized as safe for use in the production of animals and plants in the U.S. In those cases where a country establishes and enforces standards that are not science-based and/or trade-restrictive, FAEA works to educate the relevant authorities to influence changes through participation in committee meetings, workshops, seminars, and other venues so that they comply with internationally recognized standards and standards-setting bodies. FAEA gathers intelligence and reports on Codex issues of interest to FAEA members through its network of contacts in the U.S. and internationally. We use this information to intervene with education and other activities.

Jim Sutter FAEA Chairman CEO USSEC is a dynamic partnership of key stakeholders representing soybean producers, commodity shippers, merchandisers, allied agribusinesses and agricultural organizations. Through a global network of international offices and strong support in the U.S., USSEC helps build a preference for U.S. soybeans and soybean products, advocates for the use of soy in feed, aquaculture and human consumption, promotes the benefits of soy use through education and connects industry leaders through a robust membership program. https://www.ussec.org

Advancing Food and Feed Safety Modernization in Nigeria: A Journey of Collaboration and Innovation In November 2023, participants from government agencies, industry, and civil society gathered to tackle a crucial challenge: ensuring the safety of food and animal feed in Nigeria. FAEA, in collaboration with its partners, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMHSW), the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the University of Missouri’s Africa Food Safety Initiative (AFSI), hosted a three-day workshop on Food and Feed Safety Expertise Coordination. This video has been deleted. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied The workshop was attended by over 80 representatives from various Ministries, Department, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as the organized private sector and civil society partners. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange insights and develop a multi-year roadmap for regulatory reform and implementation in the food and feed safety subsector. Throughout the three-day event, participants engaged in expert panel discussions, presentations, break-out sessions, and plenary meetings. Several key decisions were reached: 01 Commitment to Long-term Investment: The workshop underscored a long-term commitment by both public and private sectors to build capacity for food and feed safety in Nigeria. 02 Collaboration as a Key: Stakeholders recognized that collaboration is crucial to ensuring food and feed safety. 03 Implementation of Policies: The reviewed National Policy on Food Safety & Quality and its implementation plan, along with the passage of the National Food Safety and Quality Bill, will modernize the regulatory framework, enhancing public health protection and trade. 04 Formation of Technical Working Groups (TWGs): Four TWGs were recommended for inauguration Risk-based regulations and risk analysis in food and feed safety. Food and SPS (Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary) inspection. Education for all stakeholders and research. Traceability and supporting technologies. 05 Expert Nominations: Nominations for TWG experts will be at the discretion of MDAs, NGOs and the organized private sector, based on established technical profiles. 06 Inauguration of TWGs: Following the approval of the Honorable Minister, the TWGs will be inaugurated to advance their work. 07 Adoption of Submissions: The submissions on priority areas and identified capacity-building needs will guide the work of the TWGs. The workshop concluded with a sense of accomplishment and determination to modernize Nigeria's food and feed safety systems. With the commitment of all stakeholders and the formation of TWGs, Nigeria is well on its way to achieving international standards in food safety, ultimately ensuring the health and well-being of its citizens and enhancing its position in global trade.

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Gina Tumbarello Who We Are Leadership Trade Data Contact Us Executive Director Mail Gina Tumbarello serves as the Executive Director of FAEA, where she provides strategic leadership and oversees all day-to-day operations. She is responsible for shaping FAEA's global programs, directing advocacy efforts, and ensuring alignment with international food and feed safety standards. Under her guidance, FAEA plays a critical role in advancing science-based international regulations and addressing non-tariff barriers to trade. Gina works collaboratively with FAEA’s diverse membership to identify challenges, develop effective strategies, and foster partnerships that strengthen global food systems. Gina brings extensive experience in international trade to her role. Prior to joining FAEA, she spent 14 years at the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), where she spearheaded global initiatives and formulated and executed the U.S. animal food industry's international priorities. Previously, she served as Manager of International Operations at the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), managing market development and access programs in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. Earlier in her career, she excelled as a Project Manager at J.E. Austin Associates, focusing on economic development projects under the World Bank and the U.S. Agency for International Development. Gina holds a master’s degree in International Trade Policy from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey and a bachelor’s degree in Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs and German from Miami University.