Strengthening global phytosanitary measures: CPM-19 side session advances Systems Approaches

Rome, 21 March 2025. At FAO headquarters, the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM-19) Side Session on the Systems Approach took place, bringing together representatives from National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs), policymakers, and industry experts to discuss the principles, practical tools, and future initiatives related to Systems Approaches in plant health.

Ensuring the safe trade of plants and plant products while mitigating the risk of pests is a key priority for NPPOs worldwide. As global trade expands and climate change influences pest dynamics, the need for adaptable, science-based solutions becomes more critical than ever. Systems Approaches offer a comprehensive strategy for phytosanitary risk management by integrating multiple independent measures, as outlined in International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM) 14. Unlike single-measure approaches, Systems Approaches enhance flexibility, allowing countries to tailor measures to specific commodities, pest risks, and regulatory requirements.

Avetik Nersisyan, IPPC OIC and IPPC Standard Setting Unit Lead, opened the session, emphasizing that "Systems Approaches are fundamental to ensuring the safe movement of plants and plant products while supporting trade and economic development. By integrating multiple independent measures, we can enhance phytosanitary security and adaptability."

Speakers highlighted real-world applications and benefits of Systems Approaches, showcasing how they provide a balanced approach to managing pest risks while facilitating trade. Rieks van Klinken from CSIRO Australia provided insight into the triggers for implementing Systems Approaches and their ability to adapt to evolving challenges, including climate change. "By designing flexible and science-based Systems Approaches, we create resilient trade pathways that benefit both exporting and importing countries," he noted.

A key focus of the session was the introduction of the Decision Support for Systems Approach (DSSA) tool. Nelson Laville, Chairperson of the Caribbean Plant Health Directors (CPHD), demonstrated how the tool supports NPPOs in developing and assessing phytosanitary risk management measures. "This tool is a valuable resource that enables countries to design and evaluate effective Systems Approaches tailored to specific commodities and trade requirements, while also ensuring consensus among key stakeholders across the production chain," Laville explained

The session also featured a success story from Kenya’s rose export program, presented by Teophilus Mutui, Head of NPPO Kenya. He shared how Kenya successfully implemented a Systems Approach to comply with European Union regulations while addressing the challenge posed by Thaumatotibia leucotreta, the False Codling Moth. "By leveraging a comprehensive Systems Approach, Kenya has maintained access to key export markets while strengthening sustainable agricultural practices in the horticultural sector," Mutui stated.

Looking ahead, Diego Quiroga from the Argentina NPPO and CPM Bureau provided an overview of an IPPC workshop on Systems Approaches, tentatively planned for the end of 2025 or beginning of 2026. “The workshop would serve as a practical platform for capacity development, knowledge-sharing, and fostering collaboration among NPPOs, ultimately reinforcing the One Health approach," he stated.

The session was moderated by Adriana Moreira, IPPC Deputy Lead for the Standard Setting Unit, and it concluded with a Q&A session allowing participants to exchange perspectives and seek clarifications from experts. In his closing remarks, CPM Vice-Chair and UK NPPO representative Sam Bishop highlighted the significance of ongoing collaboration. "The discussions today reaffirm the importance of Systems Approaches in international plant health. We encourage continued engagement and knowledge-sharing to advance phytosanitary measures globally," he said.

The System Approaches side session during CPM-19 - ©FAO/Alessandra Benedetti