Private standards

The STDF organized an information session on private standards on 26 June 2008. The aim of this STDF information session was threefold:

  • to update the SPS Committee on recent developments in this area;
  • to examine the options for facilitating the compliance of developing countries with these schemes;
  • to learn more about ongoing donor initiatives in this area.

The information session was organized as part of STDF's coordination mandate in the area of SPS-related technical cooperation. Through this information session, it was hoped that a better practical understanding of strategies for compliance would emerge, along with a clearer picture of who is doing what in terms of technical cooperation activities in this area.

More information on the session is available on WTO SPS Gateway.

In December 2008, the STDF Secretariat prepared a document which lists studies or organizations that may assist countries in determining the effects of SPS-related private standards on trade and development.