Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS Agreement)

The Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS Agreement) is an international treaty that sets rules for how countries can implement health and safety measures to protect humans, animals, and plants from pests, diseases, and contaminants. Its goal is to ensure that these measures are fair, based on scientific evidence, and do not unjustly restrict international trade. Essentially, it helps countries balance safety with free trade, encouraging transparent, consistent standards that prevent unnecessary barriers while maintaining health protections.