International Tropical Fruits Network (TFNet) is an independent and self-financing global network set up under the auspices of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
It is both intergovernmental and interinstitutional in nature. It's mandate and role is to promote sustainable development of the
tropical fruit industry globally in relation to production, post-harvest handling, processing, marketing, consumption and international
trade.
Objectives
As repository and exchange of information on production, processing, marketing, consumption and international trade of tropical fruits;
To promote, co-ordinate and support research and development, and transfer of technologies in production and post-harvest handling including downstream processing for industrial use so as to increase productivity and value;
To facilitate the expansion of international trade of tropical fruits;
To enhance human resource development;
To organize generic market promotion in collaboration with exporters and importers and strengthening consumer knowledge of the nutritional value of tropical fruits;
To sensitize to and facilitate implementation of international and regional agreements on production, marketing, consumption and international trade of tropical fruits; and
To promote technical and economic exchanges in the tropical fruits sector in pursuance of sustainable production, strengthening of domestic market, poverty eradication and food security.
Core Business
Information Exchange
Consultancy
International Trade and Marketing
Technlogy Transfer
Training
Research and Development
Postharvest handling
Processing
Nutritional and Human Health
Promotion
Activities
Among the activities of TFNet are to strengthen data collection and analyses, documentation and dissemination of information on tropical fruits; improve awareness and understanding of the tropical fruit markets; monitor impacts of regional and international agreements on production and trade policies; promote research and development of technologies of eco-regional importance; conduct seminars and workshops, strengthen linkages between tropical fruit producers and consumers; and to encourage financing and investment in tropical fruits sector.
Organisational Structure of TFNet
The organs of TFNet are the General Assembly (GA), the Board of Trustees (Board) and the Secretariat. The GA is the assembly of all members of TFNet, which meets once in three (3) years. The General Assembly would discuss, consider and determine reports on activities, programmes, budget and adopt constitution and regulation.
The Board of Trustees consists of thirteen (13) members, with representatives from country members, a representative from the Food and Agriculture Organization of United Nations, and two experts from among the members to represent the various disciplines in the tropical fruit industry. The Board meets at least once a year. The Board is responsible for submitting to the GA the reports of activities, financial report, programme and budget, appointing the staffs, consideration and implementation of the decision of the GA, advice and guide the secretariat on the operation and management, seeking for fund and enhancing cooperation and linkages.
The Secretariat, is headed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) who is assisted by the officers and staff appointed. The CEO is appointed by the Board for a term decided by the BOT. The CEO and the Secretariat are responsible for day to day administration including arrangement for convening of GA, the Board, organizing and coordinate activities and financial management.
HEADQUARTERS
International Tropical Fruits Network (TFNet)
Box 334, UPM Post Office,
43400 Serdang, Selangor,
Malaysia.
Tel: 603-89416589
Fax: 603-89416591
