Objectives:1)To create an improved international awareness of the breadth of the post-harvest sector and the importance of its contribution to socio-economic development in developing countries;2) To explore and highlight technical and policy issues which impact upon growth and change within the sector;3) To develop a vision and a plan of action for implementation of the GIPhT;4) To seek financial commitment from private sector, donor and development agencies in support of the GIPhT