Introduction to WTO: NTMs, SPS and TBT

Navigate the Core Non-Tariff Measures Shaping Global Trade Today

In the modern global trading system, barriers extend far beyond simple tariffs. Understanding the framework governing these regulations is essential for any business or professional engaged in international trade. This course provides a focused introduction to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and its key agreements on Non-Tariff Measures (NTMs)—specifically the Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) agreements. Gain the foundational knowledge to identify, understand, and comply with the regulatory measures that impact market access for products worldwide.

What You Will Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Define the Role of the WTO in regulating international trade and ensuring fair competition.

• Distinguish between Tariff and Non-Tariff Measures (NTMs) and understand their growing significance.

• Identify the Key Provisions of the SPS Agreement, which governs food safety and animal/plant health standards.

• Identify the Key Provisions of the TBT Agreement, which covers technical regulations, standards, and conformity assessment procedures.

• Understand the Core Principles of both agreements, such as non-discrimination, scientific justification, and transparency.

• Recognize the Practical Impact of SPS and TBT measures on product design, labelling, and market entry requirements.

Course Curriculum

The course is structured into targeted modules for efficient learning:

• Module 1: The WTO and the Landscape of Modern Trade: From Tariffs to NTMs

• Module 2: Ensuring Safety: A Guide to the SPS Agreement

• Module 3: Overcoming Technical Hurdles: A Guide to the TBT Agreement

Who Is This Course For?

This course is designed for professionals involved in or affected by international trade, including:

• Import/Export Managers and Compliance Officers

• Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs Professionals

• Product Managers and Market Development Specialists

• Policy Makers and Government Officials

• Entrepreneurs and Business Owners looking to expand globally

Prerequisites

There are no formal prerequisites for this course. It is designed as an introductory overview for all learners.

Course Features & Included Materials

• Focused eLearning: Complete the 0.5 hours (30 minutes) of essential content for immediate, practical insight.

• Clear and Concise Explanations: Demystify complex international trade agreements in an accessible format.

• Quick-Reference Guide: Access a downloadable cheat sheet comparing the key principles of the SPS and TBT agreements.

• Certificate of Completion: Earn a verifiable, with a unique ID and QR code, soft-copy certificate issued via the QCI training portal. Validate your achievement anytime at https://pathshala.qcin.org/.

Enroll Today and Master the Non-Tariff Rules of Global Trade!

Invest 30 minutes to understand the regulatory landscape that governs product standards and market access. Build the foundational knowledge to navigate international trade with greater confidence and compliance.

For more information, please contact:

Rohit Varshney at rohit.varshney@qcin.org, Ph. 9773500376