The recent series of thematic sessions under the auspices of the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee drew attention to various critical issues including traceability requirements, regulatory cooperation, and decarbonization. Participants also discussed the integration of environmental considerations into trade policies.
In a session dedicated to traceability in agriculture, attendees highlighted the growing significance of traceability systems. These systems are crucial in demonstrating that agricultural products adhere to sustainability standards and regulations. However, the potential of such systems to restrict market access, particularly in developing economies, was a concern. It was emphasized that collaboration between public and private sectors, alongside national strategies, is essential to meet traceability requirements effectively.
Another session focused on regulatory cooperation in food contact packaging. This discussion underscored the complex task of balancing diverse objectives without incurring unnecessary costs to businesses. Following best practices—such as employing international standards and scientific information—was recommended to tackle the challenges in this sector.
Decarbonization standards were also a topic of discussion. These standards and regulations are pivotal in supporting decarbonization goals, and international standards help ensure market interoperability. Recognizing the contributions of developing economies in setting global standards, coherence, and timely updates were regarded as important factors.
A thematic meeting on medical devices regulation stressed regulatory convergence and cooperation. Such efforts help ensure timely access to safe medical devices, especially during public health emergencies. International standards were pointed out as a base for promoting trade in these products.
The TBT Committee, together with the WTO Committee on Trade and Environment (CTE), held an information session to explore potential synergies in trade and environmental matters. Participants expressed support for continued cooperation to foster synergies between TBT and CTE work, aiming to enhance understanding of environmental objectives within trade regulations.
In procedural developments, the committee adopted new notification formats designed to modernize and improve information dissemination. This initiative had support from multiple nations including Australia, Namibia, Paraguay, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Guyana, for the first time, submitted a notification relating to the implementation of the TBT Agreement, reflecting efforts made to increase transparency. This was part of wider efforts to improve member notifications, with Canada and Colombia also updating their respective status.
The World Trade Organization (WTO) also introduced an ePing feature, allowing requests for unofficial translations of draft regulations into multiple languages. The WTO Secretariat emphasized updating contact information to ensure effective communication.
Access to the guide containing International Standards Organization (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) terms and definitions, referred to in Annex 1 of the TBT Agreement, has also been made available online by the WTO for members.
The committee's recent sessions also addressed eight new trade concerns and revisited 53 existing issues. New discussions focused on eco-design requirements, self-driving vehicles, and food and liquor labeling regulations. Progress in resolving previously identified concerns was reported, notably between the United States and Mexico regarding dairy products, as well as a resolved issue between Mexico, the United States, and Saudi Arabia's electric vehicle regulations.
The TBT Committee routinely conducts an annual review to assess the implementation of the agreement. The review covers notifications, specific trade concerns, technical assistance, and disputes. Key outcomes for the year, including the MC13 Declaration on Regulatory Cooperation and the 2025-2027 workplan, were highlighted in the annual brochure.