This project will build the capacity of organic producers, with particular focus on women-led small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to increase their business opportunities in the Canadian market and adapt their production processes and products to meet Canadian standards for organic products. The beneficiaries of the project are the ASEAN Organic Federation (AOF), which is a collaborative platform of national organic producer associations and business operators in the region, as well as the Thai Organic Trade Association (TOTA), which serves as the secretariat for the AOF.
The project will provide technical and capacity building support through trainings for AOF officials and SMEs from Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia and Vietnam, and the development of online content and training materials. Expected results include:
- Increased capacity of AOF to provide services to its members, particularly women-led SMEs
- Increased access of AOF services to existing and new members through an online platform
- Increased knowledge and understanding of business opportunities and regulatory environment for SMEs, particularly women-led SMEs, in the Canadian market
Problem being addressed by CTIF.
The AOF’s member associations’ combined business in organic trade is valued at over USD 14.5 million annually, the majority of which is destined for export markets. However, this trade volume represents only a fraction of its potential. The project will support the AOF’s mandate to promote member representatives’ organic products to global markets and facilitate access to these markets by regionally based firms.
Development dimension.
By strengthening the enabling environment for increased organic agri-food exports from AOF’s member countries to Canada, with a focus on women-led SMEs, the project will contribute to women’s economic empowerment and poverty reduction across the ASEAN region.