USDA 
OLA 
United States 
Department of 
Agriculture 
Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection 
Service 
SEERA? 
Introduction 
In the last two decades, nations have turned 
away from the protectionist practices of the 
past and embraced trade agreements that 
have changed how the world does business. 
Countries have widened the door to the 
prospects of new trade opportunities and 
expanded partnerships with other nations, 
particularly in the area of agriculture. 
With this increased interest in agricultural 
trade comes a bigger, more visible role for 
the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) 
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 
(APHIS). In the 21st century, APHIS must 
ensure the free flow of trade while safeguard- 
ing American agriculture against harmful 
foreign pests and diseases. In order to 
balance these risks with America’s desire for 
a diverse array of agricultural products, 
APHIS must be extra vigilant in its efforts 
to identify potential pathways for pests and 
disease and base all trade decisions on sound 
principles of science. 
APHIS’ International Services, Plant 
Protection and Quarantine, and Veterinary 
Services programs are vital in protecting 
America’s borders against agricultural 
threats and creating new trade opportunities 
for America’s producers. The agency’s efforts 
on the homefront and abroad to safeguard 
American agriculture ensure that U.S. 
consumers can continue to enjoy the tastes 
of America while still sampling the tastes 
of the world. 
For more information on APHIS programs, 
visit the APHIS homepage at 
http://www.aphis.usda.gov 
The U.S. Department of Agriculture prohibits discrimination in all its 
programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, 
religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or 
family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons 
with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of 
program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact 
USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). 
To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil 
Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). 
USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 
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