Review of National Regulations in the Field of Trade in Chemicals

A means to ensure consistency of national regulations with the Convention- ICAD/ICB

The Convention reiterates States Parties’ rights with respect to the use of chemicals for purposes not prohibited by the Convention. States Parties are obliged:

"Not [to] maintain among themselves any restrictions, including those in any international agreements, incompatible with the obligations undertaken under this Convention, which would restrict or impede trade and the development and promotion of scientific and technological knowledge in the field of chemistry for industrial, agricultural, research, medical, pharmaceutical or other peaceful purposes. (Article XI, subparagraph 2(c))"

In this regard, States Parties have undertaken to review their existing national trade regulations on chemicals "to render them consistent with the object and purpose of this Convention". The exact balance between free trade in chemicals amongst States Parties and the prohibitions of the CWC is still under discussion.

Extracts from National Implementing Legislation for the Chemical Weapons Convention

This survey was prepared based on a review of the submissions made by States Parties under Article VII, paragraph 5, of the Convention, which were submitted in English, or translated into English, by 15 May 2001. In relation to the topic above, specific legislation may not be required if the State Party’s legal system guarantees the effect that specific legislation would achieve.

Import/export controls: national regulations per countries (full list)

Antecedents: