National Implementation Agencies Meeting 25 April, 2023 (English)

The transcript discusses the importance of establishment of a Project Steering Committee and planning for a midterm workshop as well as completing lab tests. Clarification was sought about instructions for lab samples sent by Jesse to Trinidad, including whether they should be distributed to other participating countries. The labs will need to measure Cadmium levels and complete a questionnaire before sending their results back to Jesse. It is unclear if Gideon needs to redistribute the samples or if they were only meant for Trinidadian labs. Elizabeth explained that since Trinidad did not participate in the ClimaLoca project, then the samples are for more than one lab in Trinidad to participate in the lab calibration. The team discussed how to proceed with proficiency testing in participating countries, including determining the number of labs involved. Two labs, INIAP and SENASA have already completed the process and two more, Trinidad and Colombia need to complete calibration. The team also planned for a midterm workshop in Colombia where they will discuss project activities, constraints, and extending the project timeline if necessary. They will also address how new regulations on Cd in Cocoa and due diligence on the manufacturers’ supply chain are affecting cocoa-producing countries' access to markets and trade. Field trips are planned to see research facilities, and there will be presentations at Choco Show promoting the project's work in-country. The team discussed the draft agenda for their upcoming project presentation at the Choco Show in November. They plan to arrive on November 19th and have project meetings until the 22nd, field trips on the 23rd, presentations at the Choco Show on the 24th and visits to exhibits on the 25th November. The Cadmium talks are also mentioned as an opportunity to raise awareness about cadmium contamination in cocoa. Sarah brings up the importance of solidarity among producers and processors in addressing this issue. Manuel's presentation is discussed, along with plans for using extra funds from training technicians and travel expenses. The team reminds everyone to stay updated through their team space and mailing groups. Elizabeth recommends selecting a steering committee member who is a decision maker for improving the national cocoa sector and having someone who can bring in the trade aspect for the project. A TOR for a steering committee member is also highlighted as an important position that can contribute to improving trade in the value chain. The PMU team is available for any questions or comments via email, and there will be a presentation on the 9th May by Manuel with room for discussion afterwards. There is also an invitation to Kate from Cacao Latitudes to join the meeting as her feedback and comments would be valuable as a buyer. The transcript ends with thanking everyone for their time and looking forward to future meetings.

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Cocoa Project Management Team, National Implementation Agencies Meeting Zoom 25 April, 2023, International Cocoa Organization
Format: Texto biblioteca
Language:d
Subjects:NPIA Meeting, Cocoa Project, Cadmium,
Online Access:https://iicaint.sharepoint.com/:v:/s/CdinCocoaProject-2022to2024/EXCQpAOG6DpClO8uNbHLe-kBvBZuZoG8nKETMuxdtLQEqw?e=J2EurD
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