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SPS measures are regulations or procedures countries use to protect human, animal, and plant life or health from risks arising from the introduction of pests, diseases, or contaminants in food and agricultural products.

To ensure food safety and prevent the spread of pests and diseases across borders, protecting public health and ecosystems.

The World Trade Organization's (WTO) Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures provides the framework, supported by specialized organizations like the Codex Alimentarius Commission (food safety), the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).

They can restrict trade if countries impose strict health and safety standards, but they are essential to prevent harmful biological risks.

While SPS measures can be misused as disguised protectionism, WTO rules require them to be based on scientific evidence and risk assessments to prevent unfair barriers.

It's the scientific evaluation of potential health risks posed by food or agricultural products, which helps determine appropriate SPS standards.

By meeting the importing country's health and safety requirements, obtaining necessary certifications, and ensuring their products are free from pests, diseases, and contaminants.

Mainly food products, live animals, plants, seeds, and related agricultural inputs that could pose health risks.

The shipment can be rejected, destroyed, or sent back to the exporting country, causing economic losses.

By encouraging countries to base their measures on scientific risk assessments and harmonize standards using international guidelines.