Description
This CTIF technical assistance (TA)seeks to contribute to enhancing the understanding of ASEAN policy-makers of the current use of antibiotics in livestock production and antimicrobial drug usage in food animals in the ASEAN region. This TA will be provided through the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Cambodia, the ASEAN Country Chair for 2022 and a member of the ASEAN Sectoral Working Group on Livestock.
The TA will include the development of a study and knowledge products on the topic mentioned above. The Study will be conducted through a combination of desk research, interviews, and survey. It will generate recommendations on best practices in the handling of and alternatives to antibiotics and antimicrobials. The findings and recommendations will be shared with relevant ASEAN stakeholders to inform policy decisions and actions. A virtual dissemination event co-organized by CTIF’s service provider and MAFF-Cambodia will complete this TA mandate.
Problem being addressed by CTIF
Antimicrobials and antibiotics are used for animal therapy and disease prevention and control. However, their widespread and inappropriate use could contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in livestock.
From a trade perspective, if no corresponding actions are taken to assess the appropriate use of antibiotics and antimicrobials, importing country restrictions on these drugs could negatively affect ASEAN exports of livestock and poultry products. Therefore, this TA hopes to contribute towards mitigating possible future market entry issues and barriers to trade for livestock and meat/food animal from ASEAN to other countries.
Development Dimension
If AMR is not adequately addressed, it can threaten the health and livelihoods of farmers and all stakeholders of the agri-food value chain, including women, who comprise about a third of agricultural workers in ASEAN. AMR could also pose specific risk factors that affect women, including infections related to sanitary health care, pregnancy, and childbirth.