Procurement aims to efficiently support FAO’s mandate of achieving a food-secure world by raising levels of nutrition, improving agricultural productivity, bettering the lives of rural populations and contributing to the growth of the world economy.  As such, the primary focus of FAO procurement is in the areas of agricultural, forestry and fishery products and machinery, as well as services related to technical studies, construction and disseminating information. 

CSLP provides policy and operational support to ensure the Organization procures goods, works and services based on 'Best Value for Money' principles as embodied in the Manual Section 502.

More information on Procurement can be found in the  Procurement FAO Handbook pages.

Letters of Agreement are cost-reimbursable service contracts that are used for contracting services not available on the commercial market (e.g. for humanitarian operations, specialized academic research etc.). Letters of Agreement may only be signed with non-profit entities such as Public Authorities, NGOs and so forth (MS507.2.16)

Letters of Agreement are initiated, drafted and managed by Officers in Technical units and Decentralized offices, who are appointed the role of LoA 'Responsible Officer' by the respective Budget Holder.

CSLP has an oversight and support role for Letters of Agreement with a view to ensure that they are administratively compliant and that the terms, conditions and workplan follow the requirements of Manual Section 507. CSLP also performs the quality assurance for any Letter of Agreement that exceeds the approval limits of the Budget Holder.

More information on Letters of Agreement can be found at the Letters of Agreement FAO Handbook pages.