Global Forum on Zoning

Thanks to funding from China and the European Union, WOAH was able to support the participation of 63 Members at a Global forum on zoning from 8-9 December 2025.

The first thematic study of the WOAH Observatory on zoning revealed that, while zoning is widely recognised as an effective risk management tool, its practical application varies significantly among Members, reflecting diverse epidemiological and regulatory contexts. The report also shows that zoning has facilitated disease control and supported trade continuity, particularly for major transboundary animal diseases. However, persistent challenges in harmonisation and trading partner recognition underscore the need for strengthened trust and transparency in its implementation. These conclusions pointed to the necessity of convening Members to share perspectives and build consensus. It is on this basis that the Organisation recommended this global forum.

The Forum aims to provide participants with an opportunity to share experiences, challenges, best practices, and to learn how to develop, implement and maintain zones. The Forum will include participants that wish to learn how to implement zones through to those with extensive experience in the implementation of zones. In addition, outcomes of discussions and breakout sessions will be used to inform work currently underway to review WOAH standards related to zoning in the Terrestrial Code.

A meeting report will be available after the Forum.