SIXTH REVIEW OF
THE OPERATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE AGREEMENT
ON
THE APPLICATION OF SANITARY AND PHYTOSANITARY MEASURES
Digital
tools
Thematic
session June 2024
PROPOSAL from the european union
The following proposal, received on 18 April 2024, is being circulated at the request of the delegation of the European
Union.
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Based on the discussion at the last SPS
Committee meeting in March 2024 and the proposals submitted for the Sixth
Review of the Operation and Implementation of the SPS Agreement, the European Union would like to make the following suggestions for the upcoming thematic
session on the use of digital tools.
1 Possible sessions of the thematic
session
1.1 Better use/further development of ePing SPS&TBT
Platform
1.1. The ePing SPS&TBT Platform has proven
to be a valuable tool for both governments and other stakeholders. Since its
establishment, it has been discussed at several fora. Now after a few years of using
it, it would be useful to take stock of the major achievements and possible
areas of improvement. As it is a joint system with TBT, it could
also be beneficial to exchange views with the TBT Committee to identify
possible synergies.
1.2 e-certification – Recent
developments in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic
1.2. The recent COVID-19 pandemic forced
WTO Members to find alternative ways to ensure smooth trade and increased the
use of electronic certifications. The session would provide a possibility to
exchange the experiences and lessons learned by Members and the main
developments in this area.
1.3 Enhance transparency and information
sharing through more efficient use of Members' websites to publish information
on SPS legislation, new developments, FAQs and other specific projects
1.3. Although many Members publish
relevant SPS information on their website, there are still shortcomings for
example in relation to the approval procedures, as it was highlighted in the
conclusions and recommendations of the Working Group on Approval Procedures; "Members
are encouraged to make relevant information on approval procedures available on
official websites, ideally in multiple languages, and to use e-tools to provide
clear and timely information on approval procedures;" (_G/SPS/68).
1.4. In case of new and complex
legislation, it is beneficial to provide specific information to help
understand the new requirements. It can be in the form of a special website,
FAQ or with the help of other IT tools.
1.5. The session would provide a
possibility to discuss some good examples and have some useful exchanges on the
best formats.
1.4 Use of new technology e.g. AI
1.6. Explore the ways new technology is
used to facilitate safe trade. Members would have the possibility to provide
information on their projects and planned developments in this field.
2 Possible EU speakers
2.1. The European
Union is considering to
provide speakers for sessions 2, 3 and 4, depending on the final agenda.
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