As we mark the conclusion of the Global Food Security Training Program, we take a moment to reflect on a decade of meaningful progress and global collaboration. Over the past ten years, this initiative has served as a cornerstone in advancing food security within the intricate framework of international trade. What began as a vision to bridge knowledge gaps has become a global platform for learning, dialogue, and action.
Since its inception, the program has brought together policymakers, researchers, trade experts, and food systems practitioners from across the world. Through a blend of knowledge-sharing, capacity-building, and cross-sector collaboration, we have empowered stakeholders to make informed, sustainable decisions that balance trade imperatives with food security goals. These efforts have not only shaped policies and forged partnerships but have also contributed to more resilient and equitable food systems worldwide. The true impact of this work is reflected in strengthened institutions, enhanced cooperation across borders, and—most importantly—improved lives through better access to safe and nutritious food.
While the formal program has come to a close, its legacy lives on. The training platform and suite of resources will remain freely accessible at spscourses.com, ensuring learners around the world can continue to benefit from the tools and insights developed over the past decade.
We are also excited to highlight the release of our newest resource: the SPS Good Regulatory Practices (GRP) Toolkit. Designed to support countries in implementing science-based sanitary and phytosanitary measures, this toolkit offers practical guidance for improving regulatory systems in alignment with international standards. It has been piloted in several African countries and holds great promise for enhancing trade readiness and protecting public health.
Looking ahead, there is strong potential to expand our resources even further—particularly in the area of animal disease prevention. As the United States diversifies global trade, there is a growing need for tools that help prevent the spread of transboundary animal diseases. Future efforts may focus on developing targeted training modules and surveillance strategies that support early detection and coordinated response, safeguarding both animal health and food security.
“Over the past decade, our work has focused on building the knowledge and regulatory capacity needed to support safe, science-based trade. As we look to the future, the tools and partnerships developed through this program have the potential to further strengthen trade relationships between the United States, Mexico, Canada, and our surrounding territories. By promoting good regulatory practices and harmonized standards, we can help ensure that trade flows not only efficiently—but also safely—protecting public health, animal and plant health, and food security across borders.”
— Dr. Nicola L. Ritter, Principal Investigator, Instructional Associate Professor, Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University
To our partners, participants, trainers, and supporters: thank you. Your passion, insight, and commitment have been the heartbeat of this initiative. Though this chapter closes, the spirit of cooperation it fostered continues—echoing the vision of trade as a bridge between nations. As we build inclusive, resilient, and mutually beneficial trade relationships—especially with key partners such as Mexico, Canada, and surrounding territories—we are confident that the foundations laid over the past ten years will continue to support lasting progress in food security and economic development.
This project was developed with instructional design, graphic design, multimedia production, web application development, and web-hosting platform support provided by the Center for Educational Technologies at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. The Center specializes in creating high-impact educational resources that translate complex topics into accessible, engaging learning experiences.