EU-SADC EPA Trade Information Portal

EU-SADC EPA - Economic Partnership Agreement between the EU and the SADC EPA States

Trade Regulations
Customs procedures refer to the set of regulations and processes implemented by governments to control the movement of goods across international borders. These procedures are essential for ensuring compliance with customs laws, collecting appropriate duties and taxes, and safeguarding national security and public health.
Rules of origin are regulations that define the criteria used to determine the country of origin of a product. These rules aim to establish the nationality or origin of goods to ensure fair trade practices and enable countries to implement trade policies and agreements effectively. They play a crucial role in determining eligibility for preferential treatment, such as reduced tariffs or other benefits granted to goods originating from certain countries or regions.
Sanitary and phytosanitary measures (SPS) are regulatory standards implemented by governments to protect human, animal, and plant life from risks associated with the importation and exportation of food, plants, and animal products. They are an essential component of international trade, as they help maintain consumer confidence and facilitate the smooth flow of goods across borders while minimising health and safety risks. SPS measures include various requirements such as inspections, certifications, quarantine, testing, and labeling.
Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) measures encompass a range of regulations and standards that countries implement to protect human health, safety, and the environment, but which can also have the unintended effect of creating trade barriers. These measures are often put in place to address legitimate concerns, but they can pose challenges and obstacles for businesses seeking to engage in international trade.
Trade remedies are legal measures employed by countries to offset the adverse effects caused by unfair trading practices. These practices include dumping, which involves exporting goods at prices below their market value, as well as subsidies granted by governments to overseas industries, leading to distortions in trade. Additionally, sudden surges in imports can disrupt domestic markets and necessitate appropriate responses. Trade remedies are designed to prevent or rectify these imbalances, safeguard domestic industries, and foster fair competition.