The Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement Committee has taken steps to enhance transparency and support for developing countries. Following the adoption of the Sixth Review of the SPS Agreement, a new Transparency Working Group will be established for two years. This initiative aims to improve SPS notifications, track comments, and enhance the ePing SPS&TBT Platform. Revisions to key transparency documents are also under consideration.
Ms. Maria Cosme from France, Chair of the Committee, announced that New Zealand and Chile will lead the working group based on agreed operational guidelines. The first meeting is set to coincide with the November Committee session.
In addition, a mentoring system has been launched to aid developing and least developed country (LDC) members in engaging with SPS matters transparently and promptly. This pilot phase runs from June 2025 to June 2026, establishing informal mentor-mentee relationships for knowledge-sharing on SPS issues. An online form is available for government officials interested in participating during this period.
A thematic session on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) was held on June 17, focusing on managing AMR risks through SPS measures in international trade. Proposed by the European Union, this session provided an opportunity for members and stakeholders to discuss best practices related to AMR while ensuring safe trade.
During the recent meeting, 56 specific trade concerns were raised by members, including four new ones regarding imports into China and Thailand's regulations on aflatoxins and shrimp imports. A comprehensive list of these concerns is available online.
Updates from the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) included its 2024 Annual Report release, which highlights project outcomes and reflections over its 20-year history as well as alignment with its strategy through 2030.
The next regular Committee meeting is scheduled for November 5-7, 2025.