WTO Starts 6th Review of Deal on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures
World Trade Organization members at the March 20-22 meeting of the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures Committee reviewed the agreement on the application of SPS measures and "addressed a high number of trade concerns," the WTO said.
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The meeting focused on preparing for the sixth of the every four years review of the implementation of the SPS agreement, with members having submitted proposals on topics such as "modern challenges, regionalization, technology, transparency" and follow-up discussion to the 12th Ministerial Conference SPS declaration work program, paving the way for an "extensive agenda" in 2024. Members noted the need for "collaborative efforts with relevant committees," including the Technical Barriers to Trade Committee, to "effectively operationalize its provisions."
The sixth review of the SPS deal will center on "technical assistance" and special and differential treatment provisions, the members noted, calling for more participation from developing nations.
Members also raised "specific trade concerns," including requirements related to certificates of conformity for processed food products, delays in the publication of requirements to reopen market access and delays in authorizations for various products. The next meeting, set for the week of June 24, will feature a "thematic session on digital tools."