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Abstract
Cooperative Exporters and Foreign Technical Standards
Alan D. Borst and
Bruce J. Reynolds
All cooperative exporters must monitor and either comply with or seek to
modify or repeal the technical standards of the foreign markets to which they
export or plan to export.
This report outlines the different types of foreign technical standards (FTS)
and considers the nature of FTS and their impact on cooperatives. Next, the
roles of Federal and State Government and international government organiza-
tions with respect to FTS are described. Finally, strategic approaches which
cooperatives may adopt for dealing with FTS are considered, including organi-
zational options for joining with other exporters with a common interest.
Keywords: cooperatives, agricultural exports, technical trade barriers, stan-
dards.
ACS Research Report 113
March 1993
Preface
The objective of this research report is to help agricultural cooperative
exporters manage more effectively the costs of dealing with the technical stan-
dards and regulations of foreign countries to which they export.
Mention of a private firm or product does not constitute USDA endorse-
ment.
The authors acknowledge the contribution of all cooperative managers and
other professionals who gave their time to be interviewed.
Contents
Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Classification of FTS .......................................................................................
.I
Food Safety.. ...........................................................................................
.l
Plant Health ............................................................................................
.2
Animal Health.. ........................................................................................
.2
Quality ....................................................