(c) the relative cost-effectiveness of alternative
approaches to limiting risks.

3. Each Party, in establishing its appropriate level of protection:

(a) should take into account the objective of minimizing negative trade effects; and

(b) shall, with the objective of achieving consistency in such levels, avoid arbitrary or unjustifiable distinctions in such levels in different circumstances, where such distinctions result in arbitrary or unjustifiable discrimination against a good of another Party or constitute a disguised restriction on trade between the Parties.

4. Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) through (3) and Article 754(3)(c), where a Party conducting a risk assessment determines that available relevant scientific evidence or other information is insufficient to complete the assessment, it may adopt a provisional sanitary or phytosanitary measure on the basis of available relevant information, including from international or North American standardizing organizations and from sanitary or phytosanitary measures of other Parties. Such Party shall, within a reasonable period after information sufficient to complete the assessment is presented to it, complete its assessment, review and where appropriate revise the provisional measure in light of such assessment.

5. Where a Party is able to achieve its appropriate level of protection through the phased application of a sanitary or phytosanitary measure, it may, upon the request of another Party and in accordance with this Subchapter, allow for such a phased application, or grant specified exceptions for limited periods from such measure, taking into account the requesting Party's export interests.

Article 758: Adaptation to Regional Conditions

1. Each Party shall adapt any of its sanitary or phytosanitary measures relating to the introduction, establishment, or spread of an animal or plant pest or disease, to the sanitary or phytosanitary characteristics of the area where a good subject to such measure is produced and the area in its territory to which such good is destined, taking into account any relevant conditions, including those relating to transportation and handling, between such areas. In assessing such characteristics of an area, including whether an area is, and is likely to remain, a pest-free or disease-free area or an area of low pest or disease prevalence, each Party shall take into account, among other factors:

(a) the prevalence of relevant pests or diseases in that
area;

(b) the existence of eradication or control programs in
that area; and