The call for harmonized menstrual product standards took center stage at a recent WTO (World Trade Organization) session, where the Swedish Institute for Standards (SIS) highlighted how global standardization can strengthen health, trade and traceability across markets.
Global standards for menstrual products play a critical role in improving access, strengthening markets and ensuring fair trade. This was the key message brought forward by the Swedish Institute for Standards (SIS) when the World Trade Organization (WTO) convened its members to discuss how new regulatory frameworks can support traceability, market development and public health.
On 28 January, SIS participated in the WTO’s thematic session on trade related to menstrual products. During the event, Sarah Sim, Director of standardization at SIS presented the ongoing development of international standards within ISO/TC 338 Menstrual products.
“There was strong support for improving customs classifications (HS codes) for menstrual products to facilitate trade through more accurate statistics and better market analysis. The combination of global standards and updated HS codes will undoubtedly help increase consumer access and support market development”, says Sarah Sim.
Today, the absence of global standards limits availability and product quality in many low and middle-income countries. ISO/TC 338 now includes 58 countries, many of which represent regions where access to safe, affordable menstrual products remains a pressing challenge. ISO has classified the standards under development as “high impact”, reflecting their potential to markedly improve health outcomes, support trade and foster innovation worldwide.
The role of HS codes in global trade
The session also highlighted the importance of the Harmonized System (HS) – the international product classification system managed by the World Customs Organization (WCO). HS codes are used by customs authorities worldwide to classify products, determine tariffs, and implement import and export regulations.
Currently, menstrual products are often grouped under a broader HS category that also includes products such as diapers and wet wipes. Multi-use menstrual products often fall in a broad category that includes household articles. This makes it difficult for customs authorities and policymakers to generate reliable statistics or track trade flows specifically related to menstrual products.
Canada, which initiated the WTO meeting, is actively advocating for more accurate and dedicated HS codes to improve traceability and support market growth. Many WTO members expressed strong support for this effort. HS codes are revised in five-year cycles, and improved classifications for menstrual products could be introduced in 2033.
Driving global progress together
The work carried out by ISO/TC 338 Menstrual products continues to gain momentum as more countries and organizations recognize the importance of safe, affordable and high quality products. The development of globally harmonized standards has the potential to strengthen supply chains, create fairer market conditions and promote better health and well being for billions of people.