While a number of developing countries have excellent food safety and veterinary and phytosanitary services, others do not. For them, the requirements of the SPS Convention pose a challenge to improving the health situation of their population, livestock and crops, which can be difficult for some to meet. Because of these difficulties, the SPS Agreement delayed all requirements, with the exception of transparency (notification and establishment of contact points), until 1997 for developing countries and until 2000 for least developed countries. This means that these countries are not required to scientifically justify their sanitary or phytosanitary requirements before that date. Countries that need longer periods, for example to improve their veterinary services or to implement specific obligations under the Agreement, may request the SPS Committee to grant them further delays. 5. Where an international standard, guideline or recommendation does not exist or the content of a proposed sanitary or phytosanitary regulation is not substantially identical to the content of an international standard, guidance or recommendation and the regulation may have a significant impact on the trade of other Members, Members shall: the SPS Agreement, while allowing governments: maintain adequate sanitary and phytosanitary protection; reduces possible decision-making arbitrariness and promotes consistent decision-making.
