Sanitary And Phytosanitary Measures (SPS)

Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures are regulatory controls implemented to protect human, animal, and plant life from risks such as disease, pests, or contaminants. These measures are essential in global trade to ensure safe agricultural and food imports/exports, maintain biodiversity, and uphold public health and biosecurity.

Scope of SPS Control

Sanitary Measures

Protect human and animal health by preventing the introduction or spread of diseases (e.g., zoonotic diseases, foodborne pathogens).

Phytosanitary Measures

Safeguard plant life by regulating the import/export of plants and plant products to control pests and diseases.

Product Inspections and Certification

Includes veterinary checks, phytosanitary certificates, and laboratory testing.

Quarantine Measures

Temporary isolation of imported goods, animals, or plants to prevent potential infestations or infections.

Traceability Systems

Track the movement and origin of products to enable rapid response in case of outbreaks.

Risk Assessment

Scientific evaluation of hazards and the likelihood of occurrence to inform appropriate SPS actions.

SPS and the WTO Agreement

The World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS Agreement) ensures that health protection does not become a disguised restriction to trade. It encourages members to base SPS measures on science, use international standards where possible, and apply them only to the extent necessary to protect health.

Why It Matters

Prevents the introduction and spread of pests and diseases through trade

Ensures food safety and public health protection

Maintains ecosystem integrity and agricultural productivity

Supports science-based policy and regulatory alignment

Facilitates safe and fair global market access for agri-food products

Open Collaboration for Learning & Development

ITTC Network works with:

  • Agricultural ministries and SPS regulatory bodies
  • Quarantine services and biosecurity experts
  • Training providers in plant and animal health management

We promote best practices in SPS risk management and biosecurity for secure trade.

If you offer Sanitary And Phytosanitary Measures Training or would like to co-develop programs with us, we welcome your partnership to drive regional capability and cross-border credibility.

Resources & Engagement

Explore regional SPS protocols, risk analysis toolkits, and inspection guidance in the ITTC Network Knowledge Hub. Contribute country case studies and join global biosecurity dialogues.

Get Involved

Involved in food safety, biosecurity, or quarantine enforcement?

Join the SPS & Biosecurity Working Group

Collaborate on Training or Risk Assessment Tools

Access SPS Compliance Insights on Value Chain Asia

Join us as a member arrow right icon