From April 1 to 3 in Ashgabat, the EU-funded Border Management Program in Central Asia (BOMCA 10) organized a technical assistance (TA) session focused on the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for phytosanitary and veterinary (SPS) import controls. The session brought together experts from Turkmen SPS agencies responsible for the development and implementation of import controls.
The workshop concentrated on modernizing work processes and introducing contemporary working methods and tools in phytosanitary and veterinary control. This is a critical element for facilitating the legitimate flow of goods and cargo across borders. EU experts, in collaboration with national experts, worked on developing common SOPs for inspectors, which will be applied during practical inspections of goods. These tools will also be used for the provision of initial training.
This activity is expected to improve the consistency and effectiveness of control procedures for goods entering Central Asian countries, while simultaneously strengthening the capacity of SPS authorities to conduct effective import and export controls. This ensures compliance with relevant regulations and protects public health. The technical assistance was organized within Component 3, “Facilitation of Trade,” which aims to further support the regional economic integration process.
