Standards in the Multilateral Trading System: Implications for the EAC

This paper analyses the implications of standards in the multilateral trading system for EAC countries. After explaining the justification of standards in international trade, the paper discusses LDCs’ challenges to conforming with standards and their impacts on exports. A case is made for encouraging developed countries to deliver on technical assistance and respect the S&D provisions outlined in the WTO SPS and TBT Agreements so that EAC countries can develop sustainable production methods and realize benefits to EAC and OECD consumers in the long term.