Technical Agreements on Harmonization of Seed Regulations - icrisat

The Harmonization Systems will be implemented in the following
phases:
1.2.1 Phase 1 (2006−2007) Approval of the Systems
The Harmonization Systems and related technical procedures and
manuals are finalized and the Systems approved by Permanent Secretaries
of Agriculture and by the Ministers of Agriculture in SADC Member
States.
1.2.2 Phase 2 (2008−2010): Introduction and Implementation
During this phase the performance and the advantages of the Systems will
be assessed for effectiveness and suitability and adapted as needed.
The following supplementary activities will be pursued:
•• The introduction of PVP in more SADC countries is an important
precondition for increased seed trade in the region and for achieving
maximum benefit from the Regional Variety Release System. Countries
will therefore be encouraged to introduce PVP and will be supported in
this to the maximum extent possible;
•• Private and public stakeholders will be encouraged to make use of
the Systems and contribute with ideas concerning improvement.
Adjustments in rules and standards will be made as appropriate;
•• Training and strengthening of institutions will continue to be supported
to the extent resources will be available; and
•• Better strategies for interventions with seed in disaster situations will
be designed.
It is suggested that introduction, implementation and operation for this
initial period of about 3 years is coordinated by the PMU of the SSSN
with technical support from the SSC which meets twice a year, following
a regular schedule.
To balance the need for keeping meeting costs at a low level and at the
same time facilitate representation, it is suggested that the SSC should
have six members, four of whom will be selected among the SADC SFPs
and two will be selected from NPPOs. The six SSC members must always
be from six different Member States. After one year, three SSC members
(two SFPs and one NPPO) will be replaced with representatives from
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