The workshop explored the intersection between the implementation of the Agreements on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) and Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) and health-related standards and regulations.

Twenty-one participants from around the world attended the course to deepen their understanding of the TBT and SPS agreements and to share their experiences in addressing implementation problems and market access challenges related to health standards and regulations. Participants were also able to strengthen their network of SPS and TBT contacts through their interactions with speakers and fellow participants.

Throughout the week, participants benefitted from sessions covering specific themes, such as the role of science and risk in the SPS and TBT agreements and national coordination and policy coherence in addressing trade and health issues. The interactive format of the programme included case studies, hands-on exercises, roundtable discussions, presentations, and a visit to the World Health Organization (WHO).

This workshop was enhanced by the collaboration of the WHO and Codex Secretariats as well as through the participation of other speakers, including from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Chile and the United States. In addition, the workshop benefitted from the knowledge and experience of the current chairpersons of the SPS and TBT committees as well as the involvement of representatives from the Trade and Environment Division, the Agriculture and Commodities Division, the Intellectual Property, Government Procurement and Competition Division, the Legal Affairs Division, the Trade Policy Review Division and the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF).

The course was targeted at government officials already possessing a sound knowledge of the general features of the WTO system and the TBT and SPS agreements, and who are directly involved at a technical, practical and/or policy level with health-related regulations or standards. The workshop was a “level 3” training activity (the highest level of training) implemented within the WTO’s progressive learning framework.

List of Participants