Final answer:
A country blocking imports citing health standards is engaging in protectionism, which must adhere to WTO regulations that require such measures to be scientifically based and nondiscriminatory.
Step-by-step explanation:
A country using health standards as a reason to block the importation of a product is an example of protectionism. Protectionist policies, including government interventions such as tariffs and quotas, are often justified on the grounds of protecting consumer health and safety. Under the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, countries are allowed to set their own health and safety standards, but they must be based on science and not discriminate unjustifiably between countries with similar conditions.
When nations impose government policies to reduce or block imports based on health standards, they should ensure these measures are consistent for all external countries, unless there are substantiated reasons for differentiation. While such practices can protect domestic industries and consumers, they are closely monitored to prevent a 'race to the bottom,' where countries might lower their environmental or health standards to attract industries.