Providing targeted resources to ensure sufficient understanding of ADB procurement and project administration guidelines, particularly among first-time ADB executing and implementing agencies, will help avoid startup delays. Minor implementation startup delays were encountered because of the unfamiliarity of some first-time implementing agencies with ADB procurement, financial management, and disbursement procedures. But after trainings were provided and consultants mobilized, implementation accelerated significantly. The momentum was maintained throughout the remaining project duration, and all intended outputs and outcome were achieved. Toward the midterm review, additional financing was provided for the Lao PDR and based on previous experience with implementation startup, the executing agency was able to undertake advance actions that facilitated consultant recruitment and helped avoid delays.
Trade Facilitation: Improved Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Handling in Greater Mekong Subregion Trade Project