EFFECTS OF CODEX AND GATT

Abstract The role of the WHO/FAO Food Standards Programme has become increasingly important since the Uruguay Round of GATT since adherence to Codex Standards offers safe harborage in WTO disputes. This paper reviews some of the Programme's history and successes, discusses Codex's changing role due to GATT and WTO's endorsement of its work products, and discusses HACCP and other topical issues. It also details where the Codex Programme is in relation to streamlining its activities in terms of emphasizing the role of science in its deliberations, accelerating the timeliness of its activities, and recasting its recommendations for national government acceptance of its standards.