IPPC Reports to WTO on Possible Standards to Reduce Pest Risks in Containers
In a report to the World Trade Organization, the International Plant Protection Convention discussed new standards it is developing to minimize pest movement by sea containers and conveyances in international trade, and a similar standard, which is at an earlier stage of development, to minimize such risks for air containers and aircraft.
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The IPPC also gave an overview of its other activities from March to October 10, 2010 and discussed its troubled financial position.1
Standard on Sea Container Pest Movement May be Complete in 2-3 Years
The IPPC reports that its standard for Minimizing Pest Movement by Sea Containers and Conveyances in International Trade might be complete in 2-3 years.
According to a July 2010 version of the standard, its purpose is to minimize the risk of quarantine pests moved as contaminants with shipping containers, irrespective of the cargo carried. The standard should provide guidance as to how appropriate pest risk management can be achieved with minimum impediment to efficient movement and management of shipping containers.
The expert working group developing the standard’s guidance should (partial list):
Identify sea container pest risks - identify the extent and importance of international pest dispersal caused by sea shipping containers and provide examples.
Identify possible phytosanitary measures - identify and describe possible phytosanitary measures and best management practices to reduce pest risks, including:
- procedures for packing and subsequent storage, loading and transport of shipping containers to minimize contamination;
- procedures and practical methods for decontaminating and treating shipping containers (outside and inside) prior to export or at import, including treatment options (including treatments for permanent container flooring made of plant material) and the safe disposal of contaminants;
- measures carried out in the area surrounding locations where packing, storage and loading of shipping containers takes place to minimize pest occurrence and the probability of contamination;
- inspection prior to export or at import; and
- appropriate reporting, safeguarding actions and phytosanitary measures to be taken in case of non-compliance.
Review, suggest container verification system - review existing verification systems (or if necessary, describe possible new feasible systems) to record and certify the origin, cleanliness, cleaning or treatments of containers in respect of compliance with this standard or parts thereof, including consideration of:
- a checking system leading to the use of compliance documents or verifying labels; and
- a system for the authorization/accreditation of container companies, export, shipping or treatment companies.
Standard to Reduce Pest Risk in Air Containers/Aircraft Being Reviewed, Revised
The IPPC added that a similar standard to minimize pest movement by air containers and aircraft was sent for member consultation in July 2010. Member comments are being reviewed, and revised specifications will be presented in November 2010.
1The report describes the financial situation as “extremely drastic” and says that the IPPC has no alternative but to cut its standard-setting program, in addition to the information exchange and capacity development programs, to the absolute minimum in 2011.
IPPC report to the WTO, dated 10/13/10, available here.