Agreement on the International Carriage of Perishable Foodstuffs and on the special equipment to be used for such carriage(ATP): as amended on 1 June 2022

The ATP Agreement facilitates international transport of perishable foodstuffs by road, rail, and sea, with sea crossings limited to 150 km. It aims to preserve the quality of perishable foodstuffs during transport.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 26 October 2022
Publisher: United Nations

The Agreement on the International Carriage of Perishable Foodstuffs and on the Special Equipment to be used for such Carriage (ATP) is a significant international agreement that was concluded at Geneva on September 1, 1970, and entered into force on November 21, 1976. Its primary objectives are to facilitate the international transportation of perishable foodstuffs while also ensuring a high level of preservation of their quality during transit. This agreement applies to the carriage of perishable foodstuffs performed on the territory of at least two Contracting States, whether by road, rail, or sea. However, sea crossings must be less than 150 kilometers in length.

The ATP is a multilateral agreement between states, and it does not establish a central governing authority responsible for its enforcement. Instead, each contracting state is responsible for implementing and enforcing the provisions of the agreement within its own borders. The ATP has played a crucial role in improving the efficiency and safety of the international transportation of perishable foodstuffs, particularly in developing countries where access to modern transportation infrastructure may be limited.

By establishing specific requirements for the transportation of perishable foodstuffs, such as temperature control, ventilation, and packaging, the ATP has helped to reduce the risk of food spoilage and contamination during transit. This has not only benefited consumers by ensuring the safety and quality of the food they consume but also contributed to the overall economic development of countries by facilitating the trade of perishable goods.

In conclusion, the ATP is a vital agreement that has significantly contributed to the improvement of the international transportation of perishable foodstuffs. Its objectives of facilitating international trade while preserving the quality of perishable goods have been achieved through the commitment and cooperation of its contracting states. As the world continues to rely on international trade for the supply of food and other essential commodities, the ATP will continue to play a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of perishable food supplies.

Dimension: 300 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789211392104