Pesticide MRL establishment not only protects the integrity of the food supply, but also protects domestic agriculture. China’s response to WTO TBT/SPS notifications varies depending on the impact on trade balance, the value of the commodity, existence of established MRLs and China’s overall trade relationship with the notifying country.

To help ensure global food safety and also address animal and plant health concerns, WTO adopts the Agreement on the application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) and Agreement on Technical Barrier to Trade (TBT). Together the 2 documents form a basic reference to allow global development of equitable legislative frameworks, foster safe trade of commodities and product amongst WTO members and helps prevent countries from developing anti-competitive and protectionist technical barriers to trade.