In order to maximize the benefits of globalization the countries must become familiar with and must adhere to, the rights and obligations set out by the World Trade Organization (WTO) under the Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS).
National regulatory and export certification systems are being challenged by large increases in the volume of food and agricultural products being traded internationally, by the expanding variety of imported products and by the growing number of countries from which these imports are originating. Increased travel is also creating more pathways to spread pests, diseases and other hazards that are moving faster and further than ever before. Improved coordination is being sought among national bodies responsible for enforcing sanitary, phytosanitary and zoo sanitary measures to better protect human, animal and plant life and health without creating unnecessary technical barriers to trade.
The measures must be based on a scientific risk assessment. The achievement of an appropriate level of protection must be consistent from one situation to another. The measures must be no more trade restrictive than necessary to achieve the country's appropriate level of protection.
Participants