What is a "regulated article" in phytosanitary terms?

A "regulated article" in phytosanitary terms specifically refers to any plant, plant product, or pathogen that is subject to regulations due to its potential risk of spreading pests and diseases. This definition encompasses a wide range of items, including live plants, seeds, soil, and other plant materials that could carry pests or pathogens that may affect agricultural health.

Regulatory frameworks are put in place to control the movement of these articles in order to prevent the introduction and spread of harmful organisms that could jeopardize the agricultural economy and the environment. Therefore, the broad coverage of the term is critical for effective pest management and biosecurity measures, ensuring that any potential risks associated with these articles are properly managed and mitigated.

The other options do not accurately capture the full scope of what constitutes a "regulated article." For instance, limiting the definition to only imported articles excludes domestically produced items that may still pose risks. Additionally, defining regulated articles solely as chemicals does not encompass the biological components of plants and pathogens which are critical in phytosanitary regulation. Lastly, not all agricultural products shipped internationally are classified as regulated articles, as this status is determined by the specific risks they present in terms of pest and disease transmission.