International Training on Non-Tariff Measures in Agriculture and WTO Agreements
Learn about the WTO agreements that govern Non-Tariff Measures (NTMs) in agriculture and their implications for global trade.
Course Background
In the global trade landscape, Non-Tariff Measures (NTMs) play a crucial role in shaping the flow of agricultural goods across borders. While tariffs have been progressively reduced through international trade negotiations, NTMs—such as sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) regulations, technical standards, and trade facilitation procedures—are increasingly influential in determining market access and competitiveness. These measures, although essential for protecting human, animal, and plant health, can sometimes serve as hidden barriers to trade if not designed or implemented transparently and fairly.
This course is designed to provide participants with a strong foundation in understanding NTMs within the context of international agricultural trade. It introduces the key World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements that govern these measures, including the SPS Agreement, the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), and the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Agreement. Through a detailed analysis of the rules, procedures, and institutional mechanisms, the course aims to empower stakeholders to better interpret, implement, and negotiate NTMs affecting agriculture.
Course Objectives
What You Will Learn
Target Participants
This course is designed primarily for representatives from government agencies—particularly those involved in agriculture, trade, economy, and food safety—who engage in international negotiations or the design and enforcement of agricultural trade policies. It is also valuable for private sector professionals, such as representatives of producer organizations, exporters, importers, and agro-industry associations, who need to navigate and comply with NTM regulations. In addition, academics and researchers working in agricultural economics, trade policy, and development studies will benefit from the analytical perspective offered by the course.
