Strategies to Overcome Green Barriers in International Agricultural Trade

Green barriers, including Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) standards, eco-certifications, green tariffs, and eco-label requirements, have become critical factors influencing international agricultural trade, posing challenges such as increased compliance costs, restricted market access, and altered trade patterns. This review examines strategies to overcome these barriers by integrating technological innovation, compliance with international standards, policy coordination, trade diversification, and market adaptation. Technological approaches, such as precision agriculture, IoT-enabled monitoring, and blockchain-based traceability, enhance efficiency and regulatory compliance, while certifications like GLOBALG.A.P., ISO 14001, and organic labels provide market credibility and access to high-value segments. Case studies from countries including the Netherlands, Chile, and New Zealand, as well as corporate examples from Olam International and Dole Food Company, demonstrate the effectiveness of combining technology, standards, and strategic market engagement. The review highlights that a multi-dimensional strategy can transform green barriers from obstacles into opportunities for innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness, and emphasizes the need for continued research on cost-benefit analyses, policy effectiveness, and emerging technologies to support sustainable agricultural trade.