IPPC – the International Plant Protection Convention – is an international treaty that aims to secure coordinated, effective action to prevent and to control the introduction and spread of pests of plants and plant products.

The Convention extends beyond the protection of cultivated plants to the protection of natural flora and plant products. It takes into consideration both direct and indirect damage by pests, so it includes weeds. It also covers vehicles, aircraft and vessels, containers, storage places, soil and other objects or material that can harbour or spread pests.

The Convention provides a framework and a forum for international cooperation, harmonization and technical exchange between contracting parties.

Its implementation involves collaboration by National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs)  the official services established by governments to discharge the functions specified by the IPPC and Regional Plant Protection Organizations (RPPOs), which can act as coordinating bodies at a regional level to achieve the objectives of the IPPC.

The IPPC website can be accessed at https://www.ippc.int/en.