The Importance and Implications of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures: Case Study of Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Oman and Tunisia

Over the years, the number of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) requirement notifications to the WTO have dramatically increased. While many SPS measures are justified, some may be used as protectionist tools which can deny trade and livelihood opportunities for producers in partner countries. This paper identifies specific challenges faced by exporters of food and agricultural products from the MENA region in meeting SPS requirements. Focusing on the cases of Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Oman and Tunisia, it also recommends possible avenues for improving compliance taking into account available resources and supply chain structures