This brief covers the Special and Differential Treatment (SDT) within the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
The document provides information on the history and development of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and various regional trading blocs. It discusses how the WTO was established in 1995 as the successor to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and outlines some of the WTO's main activities. It also summarizes four major regional trading blocs - the European Union, ASEAN, Mercosur, and NAFTA - and provides some key details about their founding, goals, and membership.
The document discusses the impact of WTO policies on developing countries. It notes that over three quarters of WTO members are developing or least-developed countries. While the WTO agreements provide some benefits to developing countries like longer implementation periods, the provisions have often been insufficient and developing countries remain disadvantaged in many ways. Negotiations have stalled in part due to power imbalances where developed countries dominate the decision making process and are unwilling to compromise on issues important to developing world like agricultural subsidies. Overall, the needs and interests of developing countries have not been fully addressed within the current WTO system.
Wto and implications for small and developing countriesDavepres
The document provides an overview of the World Trade Organization (WTO), including its origins from the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), membership and decision-making processes, key principles like most favored nation status, and current issues being negotiated like agriculture and intellectual property rights. It also discusses challenges facing small and developing states within the WTO as well as arguments for and against the organization. The future of the long-running Doha Round negotiations remains uncertain.
The document discusses the impact of Pakistan's membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO). It notes that Pakistan faces threats from liberalized trade policies, as developed countries provide heavy subsidies to their agriculture sectors while requiring developing countries like Pakistan to reduce subsidies and import tariffs. This makes Pakistani agriculture vulnerable to cheap imports. However, carefully balancing imports and exports through domestic support policies could help Pakistan benefit from WTO membership in the long run.
The document discusses various topics related to the World Trade Organization (WTO). It begins with listing the names and employee codes of some individuals. It then provides several website URLs related to WTO and international trade. It lists some authors and publications on trade.
The summary continues with details about the WTO such as its founding date, location, and details about the Uruguay Round negotiations. It outlines some of the key WTO agreements covering goods, services, intellectual property and investment measures. It discusses the role and structure of the WTO secretariat. Finally, it ends with several case studies related to disputes brought to the WTO.
The document provides information about the World Trade Organization (WTO). It notes that the WTO was established on January 1, 1995 and succeeded the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). The WTO aims to supervise and liberalize international trade between its 153 member countries. It has an annual budget of 196 million Swiss francs and 629 staff members. The WTO seeks to promote free trade and resolve trade disputes between countries.
The document presents an overview of the World Trade Organization (WTO). It discusses the objectives, history, structure, principles, agreements, and role of the WTO. The WTO aims to help trade become more smooth, fair, free and predictable through administering trade agreements and resolving disputes between member nations. It also provides special provisions and assistance to developing countries. The WTO's role is to promote open, fair and undistorted global competition through trade liberalization and economic reforms.
This brief covers Trade Related issues (TRI) under the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
The document provides information on the history and development of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and various regional trading blocs. It discusses how the WTO was established in 1995 as the successor to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and outlines some of the WTO's main activities. It also summarizes four major regional trading blocs - the European Union, ASEAN, Mercosur, and NAFTA - and provides some key details about their founding, goals, and membership.
The document discusses the impact of WTO policies on developing countries. It notes that over three quarters of WTO members are developing or least-developed countries. While the WTO agreements provide some benefits to developing countries like longer implementation periods, the provisions have often been insufficient and developing countries remain disadvantaged in many ways. Negotiations have stalled in part due to power imbalances where developed countries dominate the decision making process and are unwilling to compromise on issues important to developing world like agricultural subsidies. Overall, the needs and interests of developing countries have not been fully addressed within the current WTO system.
Wto and implications for small and developing countriesDavepres
The document provides an overview of the World Trade Organization (WTO), including its origins from the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), membership and decision-making processes, key principles like most favored nation status, and current issues being negotiated like agriculture and intellectual property rights. It also discusses challenges facing small and developing states within the WTO as well as arguments for and against the organization. The future of the long-running Doha Round negotiations remains uncertain.
The document discusses the impact of Pakistan's membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO). It notes that Pakistan faces threats from liberalized trade policies, as developed countries provide heavy subsidies to their agriculture sectors while requiring developing countries like Pakistan to reduce subsidies and import tariffs. This makes Pakistani agriculture vulnerable to cheap imports. However, carefully balancing imports and exports through domestic support policies could help Pakistan benefit from WTO membership in the long run.
The document discusses various topics related to the World Trade Organization (WTO). It begins with listing the names and employee codes of some individuals. It then provides several website URLs related to WTO and international trade. It lists some authors and publications on trade.
The summary continues with details about the WTO such as its founding date, location, and details about the Uruguay Round negotiations. It outlines some of the key WTO agreements covering goods, services, intellectual property and investment measures. It discusses the role and structure of the WTO secretariat. Finally, it ends with several case studies related to disputes brought to the WTO.
The document provides information about the World Trade Organization (WTO). It notes that the WTO was established on January 1, 1995 and succeeded the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). The WTO aims to supervise and liberalize international trade between its 153 member countries. It has an annual budget of 196 million Swiss francs and 629 staff members. The WTO seeks to promote free trade and resolve trade disputes between countries.
The document presents an overview of the World Trade Organization (WTO). It discusses the objectives, history, structure, principles, agreements, and role of the WTO. The WTO aims to help trade become more smooth, fair, free and predictable through administering trade agreements and resolving disputes between member nations. It also provides special provisions and assistance to developing countries. The WTO's role is to promote open, fair and undistorted global competition through trade liberalization and economic reforms.
This brief covers Trade Related issues (TRI) under the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
This brief covers the issue of Differentiation within the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) sees the third global review of Aid for Trade as an important opportunity to evaluate the impact of aid, establish best practices, and recommit to aid as a development tool. CARICOM countries face challenges as small, vulnerable, and highly indebted economies. They are working to strengthen regional integration through various initiatives while also seeking to recalibrate the multilateral trading system to account for the needs of developing economies. CARICOM is developing a regional aid for trade strategy and working with partners like the EU, IDB, and Canada to design projects that can boost competitiveness and trade.
This thesis examines the participation of Arab members in the World Trade Organization's decision-making and dispute settlement systems. It analyzes the implications of multilateral, regional, and bilateral trade agreements entered into by Middle Eastern and North African countries that are members of both the Arab League and WTO. The thesis will argue that increased trade links encouraged by WTO rules have been shown to increase trade volume, and Arab members should increase WTO participation alongside regional and bilateral agreements to maximize benefits. Currently, Arab participation in the WTO dispute settlement system is limited. The thesis will explore reasons for this, including lack of resources, cultural aversion to legal confrontation, and not wanting to damage important trade relationships. It will also analyze Arab involvement in
This document discusses the proposed tripartite free trade area between the regional economic communities of COMESA, EAC, and SADC in Eastern and Southern Africa. It provides background on each of the three RECs, including their objectives, integration stages achieved so far, and future plans. COMESA has established a free trade area and customs union, with plans for a common market. The EAC has progressed the furthest and is now a common market. SADC aims to have a free trade area, customs union, and common market by certain years. The document notes challenges with overlapping memberships between the RECs and assesses the potential benefits and challenges of establishing a unified free trade area between the three organizations.
The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is an international forum composed of twenty-one member economies within the Asia- Pacific region. Its purpose is “to sustain the growth and development of the region for the common good of its peoples” by encouraging trade. APEC builds on WTO General Agreement on Trade and Services (GATS) principles for the progressive liberalisation of trade in services through the reduction of regulatory restrictions, leading to reciprocal agreements between member economies where appropriate.
The document discusses regional trade systems and the principles of the international trading system. It outlines five key principles: non-discrimination, reciprocity, binding and enforceable commitments, transparency, and safety valves. It then lists recommendations to promote free trade, continue institutions like the WTO, progressively deregulate and free trade while providing consumer information, and assist poor countries in participating in the international trading system.
This document discusses regional trade agreements (RTAs) in the context of the Doha Development Agenda negotiations. It provides background on GATT/WTO provisions governing RTAs, analyzes the global trend of increasing RTAs, and examines how the "new regionalism" goes beyond early agreements. The document aims to identify issues of interest to India regarding making RTA rules more development-friendly. It recommends stricter RTA rules and unilateral trade policies to support developing country growth.
The Multilateral Trading System After DohaSimon Lacey
The document discusses the state of the global trading system after the Doha Round of trade negotiations. It provides background on the negotiations leading up to and following the 2001 Doha Ministerial Conference where the Doha Development Agenda was launched. Key topics covered include the agricultural, services and industrial tariff negotiations under Doha, as well as debates around special treatment for developing countries, cotton subsidies, and the eventual breakdown of negotiations at the 2003 Cancun Ministerial.
The Agreement on Trade Facilitation (TFA) of the World Trade Organization (WTO), reached
in Bali, Indonesia in 2013, represents a great opportunity for developing countries.
Experience shows that trade facilitation reforms improve a country’s trade competitiveness
and enhance its revenue collection. What is more, they can help advance development
goals such as strengthening governance and formalizing the informal sector. In
addition, since many trade facilitation-related challenges and solutions are regional, the
implementation of such solutions can boost regional integration.
This policy brief examines the potential impact that trade facilitation reforms can have
on trade competitiveness and development, including a number of specific Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs), and on revenue collection and other public policy objectives.
It identifies the policies necessary for developing countries to reap the full developmentrelated
benefits of trade facilitation reforms. UNCTAD’s research and experience with
technical assistance programmes have shown that trade facilitation reforms should be
comprehensive and ambitious. Trade facilitation should also be linked to investments in
transport infrastructure and other trade-supporting services. Given the linkages between
trade facilitation reforms and implementation capacities, development partners need to
focus their support on the most vulnerable economies, making full use of the promises and
possibilities for technical assistance provided by the TFA.
Trade related investment measures {trims}suyash gunjal
The document discusses the Agreement on Trade-Related Investment Measures (TRIMs) of the WTO. It provides background on TRIMs, including that they prohibit certain trade-related investment measures imposed by countries that discriminate against foreign investment or violate WTO principles. It summarizes a dispute between the US, EU and India involving India's local content requirements and trade balancing requirements in its automotive sector, which were found to be inconsistent with TRIMs. It also notes developing countries' concerns that TRIMs limit their policy space for industrialization.
The document summarizes the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) which was concluded by 12 countries in October 2015. Key features of the TPP include comprehensive market access by reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers, addressing new trade issues like the digital economy, and establishing the agreement as a platform for regional economic integration. The 30-chapter agreement covers areas like trade in goods and services, investment, environmental and labor protections, and establishes rules for determining whether goods qualify for preferential tariff treatment based on their origin. Overall, the TPP aims to promote trade, investment, and economic growth across the Asia-Pacific region through high standard rules and liberalization of markets.
This document compares free trade areas (FTAs) and customs unions (CUs) as forms of economic integration between countries.
FTAs eliminate tariffs between member countries but each country maintains its own external tariff. This requires rules of origin to determine which goods receive duty-free treatment. Rules of origin add complexity and costs. CUs establish a common external tariff for all member countries, eliminating the need for rules of origin and promoting efficiency. However, CUs require closer cooperation on revenue sharing.
Overall, the economic benefits of a CU outweigh those of an FTA due to reduced complexity from eliminating rules of origin and promoting efficient production and trade. A CU may be a desirable next step for economic
The document summarizes the key points from the Nairobi Ministerial Declaration of the 10th WTO Ministerial Conference. It acknowledges achievements of the WTO over 20 years including the first agreement reached since its establishment, the Trade Facilitation Agreement. However, it notes less progress has been made in other areas of negotiations like agriculture and rules. It also commits to further strengthening the dispute settlement system and supporting developing countries, especially LDCs, to build trade capacity and integrate into the global trading system.
Ethiopia and World Trade Organization in Light of Privatization, Liberalizati...Andualem192
This document discusses Ethiopia's process of joining the World Trade Organization (WTO). It begins by providing an overview of the WTO, including its establishment in 1995 and broader scope compared to its predecessor GATT. It then outlines the 6-step process for a country to become a WTO member, including submitting an application and memorandum, negotiating bilateral trade agreements, and final approval. Key reasons for countries to join include market access, cost effectiveness, fair dispute resolution, and assurance of consistent treatment. The responsibilities of WTO members and various trade policies and strategies that countries can adopt are also reviewed. Finally, it discusses Ethiopia's nearly 20-year process of accession to the WTO with the goal of liberalizing its economy
The document discusses the focus of the 8th WTO Ministerial Conference following setbacks in the Doha Round negotiations. Key points:
1) Members shifted focus to an "Early Harvest" package deal to address three LDC issues but failed to agree on what should be included.
2) With no agreement, the MC8 will likely downplay Doha's significance and focus on the WTO's future and way forward without negotiation outcomes.
3) CARICOM will emphasize preserving gains for ACP, SVE, and LDCs and multilateralizing the ACP/EU agreement offsetting loss of banana preferences.
The document provides a progress report on the implementation of decisions from the First Tripartite Summit of the Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA), East African Community (EAC), and Southern African Development Community (SADC). It summarizes the status of establishing a free trade area and coordinating trade policies among the three regional economic communities. Key developments include drafting documents to underpin the free trade area, harmonizing customs laws and procedures, developing common product standards, and establishing frameworks to identify and resolve non-tariff barriers to trade. Over two-thirds of 331 reported non-tariff barriers have been resolved thus far.
Position Paper for World Trade Organization - NYC Model UN Conference 2009agemmel7
South Africa supports regional trade agreements and the creation of new organizations to facilitate trade. It proposes the creation of a new WTO committee called MINT to help developing countries industrialize and restructure their economies. South Africa also proposes the creation of an African trade organization called ACTO to promote free trade across Africa through lowering tariffs and economic cooperation. It believes regional trade agreements like SACU have increased trade and economic growth in southern Africa and can serve as models for broader cooperation.
critical analysis of WTO laws-Rohan Pillai.pptxRohanPillai20
The document provides a critical analysis of laws established by the World Trade Organization (WTO). It discusses the key agreements that comprise WTO laws, including those governing trade in goods, services, and intellectual property. It also examines principles of the WTO like most favored nation treatment, national treatment, and exceptions. The document critiques concepts like "like products" and the dispute settlement mechanism. It analyzes agreements such as the Anti-Dumping Agreement. Overall, the document takes a balanced approach in examining both the trade liberalization and regulatory autonomy perspectives in WTO jurisprudence.
The World Trade Organization (WTO) was established in 1995 as the successor to GATT. It provides the framework for global rules of trade between nations. The WTO aims to lower trade barriers, settle trade disputes, and strengthen international trade cooperation. It is headquartered in Geneva and includes 164 member countries that account for over 90% of global trade. The key organs of the WTO include the Ministerial Conference, General Council, Dispute Settlement Body, and various councils overseeing trade in goods, services, and intellectual property.
From Doha to Bali: Assessing the Bali Deliverables after 12 long years of mul...Simon Lacey
This is a lecture I prepared recently in anticipation of the WTO Ministerial Conference to be held from 3 to 6 December on Bali. It discusses the history of the Doha Round to date and offers a preliminary evaluation of the likely outcomes from the Ministerial meeting.
The document is the 2014-2015 Global Competitiveness Report published by the World Economic Forum. It was edited by Professor Klaus Schwab and Professor Xavier Sala-i-Martín. The report assesses the competitiveness of various countries and economies based on the Global Competitiveness Index and data from the Executive Opinion Survey. It acknowledges contributions from various partner institutes that provided important support and data.
The 2014 Annual Report is split into three main sections. The first contains a message from the WTO Director-General. The second section provides a brief overview of 2013 and some background information on the WTO, while the third has more in-depth information.
This brief covers the issue of Differentiation within the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) sees the third global review of Aid for Trade as an important opportunity to evaluate the impact of aid, establish best practices, and recommit to aid as a development tool. CARICOM countries face challenges as small, vulnerable, and highly indebted economies. They are working to strengthen regional integration through various initiatives while also seeking to recalibrate the multilateral trading system to account for the needs of developing economies. CARICOM is developing a regional aid for trade strategy and working with partners like the EU, IDB, and Canada to design projects that can boost competitiveness and trade.
This thesis examines the participation of Arab members in the World Trade Organization's decision-making and dispute settlement systems. It analyzes the implications of multilateral, regional, and bilateral trade agreements entered into by Middle Eastern and North African countries that are members of both the Arab League and WTO. The thesis will argue that increased trade links encouraged by WTO rules have been shown to increase trade volume, and Arab members should increase WTO participation alongside regional and bilateral agreements to maximize benefits. Currently, Arab participation in the WTO dispute settlement system is limited. The thesis will explore reasons for this, including lack of resources, cultural aversion to legal confrontation, and not wanting to damage important trade relationships. It will also analyze Arab involvement in
This document discusses the proposed tripartite free trade area between the regional economic communities of COMESA, EAC, and SADC in Eastern and Southern Africa. It provides background on each of the three RECs, including their objectives, integration stages achieved so far, and future plans. COMESA has established a free trade area and customs union, with plans for a common market. The EAC has progressed the furthest and is now a common market. SADC aims to have a free trade area, customs union, and common market by certain years. The document notes challenges with overlapping memberships between the RECs and assesses the potential benefits and challenges of establishing a unified free trade area between the three organizations.
The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is an international forum composed of twenty-one member economies within the Asia- Pacific region. Its purpose is “to sustain the growth and development of the region for the common good of its peoples” by encouraging trade. APEC builds on WTO General Agreement on Trade and Services (GATS) principles for the progressive liberalisation of trade in services through the reduction of regulatory restrictions, leading to reciprocal agreements between member economies where appropriate.
The document discusses regional trade systems and the principles of the international trading system. It outlines five key principles: non-discrimination, reciprocity, binding and enforceable commitments, transparency, and safety valves. It then lists recommendations to promote free trade, continue institutions like the WTO, progressively deregulate and free trade while providing consumer information, and assist poor countries in participating in the international trading system.
This document discusses regional trade agreements (RTAs) in the context of the Doha Development Agenda negotiations. It provides background on GATT/WTO provisions governing RTAs, analyzes the global trend of increasing RTAs, and examines how the "new regionalism" goes beyond early agreements. The document aims to identify issues of interest to India regarding making RTA rules more development-friendly. It recommends stricter RTA rules and unilateral trade policies to support developing country growth.
The Multilateral Trading System After DohaSimon Lacey
The document discusses the state of the global trading system after the Doha Round of trade negotiations. It provides background on the negotiations leading up to and following the 2001 Doha Ministerial Conference where the Doha Development Agenda was launched. Key topics covered include the agricultural, services and industrial tariff negotiations under Doha, as well as debates around special treatment for developing countries, cotton subsidies, and the eventual breakdown of negotiations at the 2003 Cancun Ministerial.
The Agreement on Trade Facilitation (TFA) of the World Trade Organization (WTO), reached
in Bali, Indonesia in 2013, represents a great opportunity for developing countries.
Experience shows that trade facilitation reforms improve a country’s trade competitiveness
and enhance its revenue collection. What is more, they can help advance development
goals such as strengthening governance and formalizing the informal sector. In
addition, since many trade facilitation-related challenges and solutions are regional, the
implementation of such solutions can boost regional integration.
This policy brief examines the potential impact that trade facilitation reforms can have
on trade competitiveness and development, including a number of specific Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs), and on revenue collection and other public policy objectives.
It identifies the policies necessary for developing countries to reap the full developmentrelated
benefits of trade facilitation reforms. UNCTAD’s research and experience with
technical assistance programmes have shown that trade facilitation reforms should be
comprehensive and ambitious. Trade facilitation should also be linked to investments in
transport infrastructure and other trade-supporting services. Given the linkages between
trade facilitation reforms and implementation capacities, development partners need to
focus their support on the most vulnerable economies, making full use of the promises and
possibilities for technical assistance provided by the TFA.
Trade related investment measures {trims}suyash gunjal
The document discusses the Agreement on Trade-Related Investment Measures (TRIMs) of the WTO. It provides background on TRIMs, including that they prohibit certain trade-related investment measures imposed by countries that discriminate against foreign investment or violate WTO principles. It summarizes a dispute between the US, EU and India involving India's local content requirements and trade balancing requirements in its automotive sector, which were found to be inconsistent with TRIMs. It also notes developing countries' concerns that TRIMs limit their policy space for industrialization.
The document summarizes the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) which was concluded by 12 countries in October 2015. Key features of the TPP include comprehensive market access by reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers, addressing new trade issues like the digital economy, and establishing the agreement as a platform for regional economic integration. The 30-chapter agreement covers areas like trade in goods and services, investment, environmental and labor protections, and establishes rules for determining whether goods qualify for preferential tariff treatment based on their origin. Overall, the TPP aims to promote trade, investment, and economic growth across the Asia-Pacific region through high standard rules and liberalization of markets.
This document compares free trade areas (FTAs) and customs unions (CUs) as forms of economic integration between countries.
FTAs eliminate tariffs between member countries but each country maintains its own external tariff. This requires rules of origin to determine which goods receive duty-free treatment. Rules of origin add complexity and costs. CUs establish a common external tariff for all member countries, eliminating the need for rules of origin and promoting efficiency. However, CUs require closer cooperation on revenue sharing.
Overall, the economic benefits of a CU outweigh those of an FTA due to reduced complexity from eliminating rules of origin and promoting efficient production and trade. A CU may be a desirable next step for economic
The document summarizes the key points from the Nairobi Ministerial Declaration of the 10th WTO Ministerial Conference. It acknowledges achievements of the WTO over 20 years including the first agreement reached since its establishment, the Trade Facilitation Agreement. However, it notes less progress has been made in other areas of negotiations like agriculture and rules. It also commits to further strengthening the dispute settlement system and supporting developing countries, especially LDCs, to build trade capacity and integrate into the global trading system.
Ethiopia and World Trade Organization in Light of Privatization, Liberalizati...Andualem192
This document discusses Ethiopia's process of joining the World Trade Organization (WTO). It begins by providing an overview of the WTO, including its establishment in 1995 and broader scope compared to its predecessor GATT. It then outlines the 6-step process for a country to become a WTO member, including submitting an application and memorandum, negotiating bilateral trade agreements, and final approval. Key reasons for countries to join include market access, cost effectiveness, fair dispute resolution, and assurance of consistent treatment. The responsibilities of WTO members and various trade policies and strategies that countries can adopt are also reviewed. Finally, it discusses Ethiopia's nearly 20-year process of accession to the WTO with the goal of liberalizing its economy
The document discusses the focus of the 8th WTO Ministerial Conference following setbacks in the Doha Round negotiations. Key points:
1) Members shifted focus to an "Early Harvest" package deal to address three LDC issues but failed to agree on what should be included.
2) With no agreement, the MC8 will likely downplay Doha's significance and focus on the WTO's future and way forward without negotiation outcomes.
3) CARICOM will emphasize preserving gains for ACP, SVE, and LDCs and multilateralizing the ACP/EU agreement offsetting loss of banana preferences.
The document provides a progress report on the implementation of decisions from the First Tripartite Summit of the Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA), East African Community (EAC), and Southern African Development Community (SADC). It summarizes the status of establishing a free trade area and coordinating trade policies among the three regional economic communities. Key developments include drafting documents to underpin the free trade area, harmonizing customs laws and procedures, developing common product standards, and establishing frameworks to identify and resolve non-tariff barriers to trade. Over two-thirds of 331 reported non-tariff barriers have been resolved thus far.
Position Paper for World Trade Organization - NYC Model UN Conference 2009agemmel7
South Africa supports regional trade agreements and the creation of new organizations to facilitate trade. It proposes the creation of a new WTO committee called MINT to help developing countries industrialize and restructure their economies. South Africa also proposes the creation of an African trade organization called ACTO to promote free trade across Africa through lowering tariffs and economic cooperation. It believes regional trade agreements like SACU have increased trade and economic growth in southern Africa and can serve as models for broader cooperation.
critical analysis of WTO laws-Rohan Pillai.pptxRohanPillai20
The document provides a critical analysis of laws established by the World Trade Organization (WTO). It discusses the key agreements that comprise WTO laws, including those governing trade in goods, services, and intellectual property. It also examines principles of the WTO like most favored nation treatment, national treatment, and exceptions. The document critiques concepts like "like products" and the dispute settlement mechanism. It analyzes agreements such as the Anti-Dumping Agreement. Overall, the document takes a balanced approach in examining both the trade liberalization and regulatory autonomy perspectives in WTO jurisprudence.
The World Trade Organization (WTO) was established in 1995 as the successor to GATT. It provides the framework for global rules of trade between nations. The WTO aims to lower trade barriers, settle trade disputes, and strengthen international trade cooperation. It is headquartered in Geneva and includes 164 member countries that account for over 90% of global trade. The key organs of the WTO include the Ministerial Conference, General Council, Dispute Settlement Body, and various councils overseeing trade in goods, services, and intellectual property.
From Doha to Bali: Assessing the Bali Deliverables after 12 long years of mul...Simon Lacey
This is a lecture I prepared recently in anticipation of the WTO Ministerial Conference to be held from 3 to 6 December on Bali. It discusses the history of the Doha Round to date and offers a preliminary evaluation of the likely outcomes from the Ministerial meeting.
The document is the 2014-2015 Global Competitiveness Report published by the World Economic Forum. It was edited by Professor Klaus Schwab and Professor Xavier Sala-i-Martín. The report assesses the competitiveness of various countries and economies based on the Global Competitiveness Index and data from the Executive Opinion Survey. It acknowledges contributions from various partner institutes that provided important support and data.
The 2014 Annual Report is split into three main sections. The first contains a message from the WTO Director-General. The second section provides a brief overview of 2013 and some background information on the WTO, while the third has more in-depth information.
This document provides an overview of the 20th anniversary of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), which was established in 1994 to promote cooperation among countries in the Greater Caribbean region. It discusses the ACS's origins, achievements over its first two decades, and priority areas of focus going forward such as expanding trade and investment, reducing disaster risks, sustainable tourism, and regional transportation connectivity. The ACS Secretary-General highlights progress made in 2013, including ratification of agreements and approval of projects, and looks ahead to the upcoming 6th Summit in Mexico to further consolidate cooperation efforts across the region.
The European Commission’s assessment of the likely benefits of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership
(TTIP) is based on analysis carried out by the Centre for Economic Policy Research, a leading
independent pan-European economic research organization. Given the significance of TTIP, this analysis
has been widely discussed in policy debates, in the press, on social media. The material provided in this
document attempts to answer some of the questions that have been raised in those contexts.
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is responsible for the preparation of this report. U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman gratefully acknowledges the contributions of all USTR staff to the writing and production of this report and notes, in particular, the contributions of Brittany Bauer, Colby Clark, and Michael Roberts. Thanks are extended to partner Executive Branch agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency and the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Health and Human Services, Justice, Labor, State, and Treasury. In preparing the report, substantial information was solicited from U.S. Embassies around the world and from interested stakeholders. The draft of this report was circulated through the interagency Trade Policy Staff Committee. March 2014Wto2014 0918a
This document discusses trade between the CARICOM region and Ghana. It finds that while CARICOM exports a modest amount to Ghana, totaling $26.8 million USD in 2012, the trade is inconsistent and concentrated in a few products like ceramics, fish, and chemicals. Ghana's economy has grown around 6% annually in recent years due to its oil, gas, agriculture and services sectors. The document recommends CARICOM explore opportunities in Ghana's growing market, as some companies like GraceKennedy have already begun operations there.
The document discusses a meeting of the Council on Trade and Economic Development (COTED) of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) that recognized the need to address the link between trade policies, diet, and obesity in the Caribbean region. The COTED established a working group to prepare for a joint meeting in 2014 on these issues. The working group is coordinated by the Caribbean Public Health Agency, the Office of Trade Negotiations, and CARICOM. The collaboration aims to develop effective strategies to address non-communicable diseases related to poor dietary intake. The document summarizes research finding that international trade has reduced the costs of energy-dense foods high in sugars and fats, making these diets more affordable and contributing to obesity
This guide helps businesses take advantage of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The agreement simplifies customs procedures, allowing businesses to become more competitive. This jargon-free guide explains the provisions with a focus on what businesses need to know to take advantage of the agreement. It will also help policy makers identify their needs for technical assistance to implement and monitor it. - See more at: http://www.intracen.org/wto-trade-facilitation-agreement-business-guide-for-developing-countries/#sthash.UA1o6V3G.dpuf
The document summarizes the Common External Tariff (CET) structure used by CARICOM member states. It describes how the CET categorizes products as either inputs into production or final goods. These products are then further divided into competing or non-competing based on whether regional production meets 75% of regional demand. Several categories of products are given special treatment in the CET rates, including selected exports, agriculture, agricultural inputs, safety items, cost of living sensitive goods, socio-economic/cultural goods, and revenue generating items like alcohol and cigarettes.
This Working Paper was published by United Nations University Maastricht Economic and social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT). It seeks to provide insights about the main characteristics of innovative firms and to gather new evidence with regard to the nature of the innovation process in the Latin American and Caribbean region. This Paper analyses data from a number of CARICOM countries.
The Caribbean Community Regional Aid for Trade Strategy 2013-2015 aims to help CARICOM member states overcome constraints to competitiveness and trade expansion through three strategic goals: 1) Upgrading key economic infrastructure, 2) Enhancing competitiveness and trade diversification, and 3) Deepening regional integration and maximizing gains from trade agreements. The strategy identifies priority areas and "anchor" projects to achieve these goals in maritime transport, ICT, energy, trade facilitation, and private sector development. It also categorizes activities as regional, national-regional, or national to coordinate aid for trade efforts across the Caribbean.
Details for persons who are interested in attending the Caribbean Festival of the Arts (CARIFESTA) scheduled for Suriname from 16-25 August 2013 under the theme “CULTURE FOR DEVELOPMENT, Celebrating our Diversity and Promoting the Central Role of Culture in Economic, Social and Human Development”
The Caribbean Community Secretariat is seeking to fill the position of Technical Advisor in Investment and Private Sector. The position is based in Barbados and requires a candidate with at least a Master's degree and 5 years experience in investment promotion, business development, or related trade matters. Key responsibilities include providing technical support and advice on investment, serving as a liaison to private sector stakeholders, conducting research and analysis, and representing CARICOM at various meetings. The position offers an attractive remuneration package including education grants for dependents and relocation assistance.
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The document summarizes global trade in cheese and curd. It finds that in 2011, global cheese and curd imports totaled $27.4 billion, with Germany accounting for over 15% of imports. The top 10 importing countries jointly accounted for 63.3% of global imports. While global import spending grew 4% annually from 2007-2011, some individual countries like Israel and Brazil saw above average growth. The US imposed the highest average tariffs on cheese and curd imports at over 17%. The document then analyzes cheese and curd exports from CARICOM countries, finding that exports have declined in recent years and are concentrated in a few markets like the US. Jamaica dominates CARICOM exports, though prices are higher
OTN UPDATE is the flagship electronic trade newsletter of the Office of Trade Negotiations (OTN). The newsletter provides analyses of international trade policy issues and developments relevant to the Caribbean. It focuses on the OTN's work, trade negotiation topics within its mandate, and related activities. The intention is to provide stakeholders awareness of important trade policy changes affecting the Caribbean.
The document discusses innovation emerging as a new frontier in multilateral trade cooperation at the WTO. It notes that as knowledge and creative economies grow, countries are increasingly concerned with the link between innovation, trade performance, and competitiveness. While intellectual property protection is important, innovation depends on broader factors. The prospects for multilateral trade cooperation expanding beyond reducing barriers to
The Panel on Defining the Future of Trade was established in 2012. The Panel was mandated to: “….examine and analyse challenges to global trade opening in the 21st century” against the background of profound transformations occurring in the world economy, looking “at the drivers of today’s and tomorrow’s trade, […] at trade patterns and at what it means to open global trade in the 21st century, bearing in mind the role of trade in contributing to sustainable development, growth, jobs and poverty alleviation.” This is the Report of the Panel.
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The increasing urgency to address climate change has propelled sustainable investing into the spotlight, with green bonds emerging as a pivotal instrument for mobilizing the capital required for environmental projects. This study delves into the critical role that bond ratings play in guiding investments in green bonds, shedding light on how these ratings influence investor confidence and the allocation of funds towards sustainable initiatives. By employing a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of green bond performance with qualitative interviews from industry experts, this research offers a comprehensive overview of the interplay between bond ratings and green bond investments. The findings suggest that higher bond ratings, often indicative of lower risk and better sustainability credentials, significantly impact the attractiveness of green bonds to investors. Additionally, the study examines the evolution of rating criteria to encompass environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, highlighting the shift towards more holistic assessments of investment risk and potential. This research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable finance by providing insights into the mechanisms through which bond ratings can facilitate more informed and impactful green bond investments.
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1. Jamaica Office Barbados Office Brief No.:
2nd Floor, JAMPRO Building, 3rd Floor, Mutual Building,
18 Trafalgar Road, Kingston 5, JAMAICA Hastings, Christ Church, BARBADOS 3200.3/EPA-06[08]
Tel: (876) 946-2329 Fax: (876) 978 4360 Tel: (246) 430-1670 Fax: (246) 228-9528
Email: jamaica.office@crnm.org Email: barbados.office@crnm.org
EPA Brief
The Cariforum-EC Economic Partnership
Agreement (EPA)
Special and Differential Treatment Provisions in the EPA
Background
1. Before proceeding to chronicle the Special and Differential Treatment (S&DT) provisions contained
in the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), it is first necessary to have a
fundamental understanding of the concept.
2. S&DT is an established principle in the GATT and WTO legal system. Essentially, it is a fundamental
right which recognizes that by virtue of their development needs and resource constraints, which by
extension would limit the derived benefits and opportunities, developing and least developed
countries (LDCs) are to be accorded special treatment by developed country partners. In the context
of trade accords, therefore, the term S&DT, construed broadly, refers to the set of provisions which
operationalize the notion that developing countries taking part in trade negotiations have no
obligation to reciprocate fully the concessions they receive1.
3. S&DT is a cross-cutting issue which can assume several forms. For instance, the WTO Secretariat
has identified 145 provisions spread across the various Multilateral Agreements. These have been
classified according to the following six-fold typology2:
(i) provisions aimed at increasing the trade opportunities of developing country Members;
(ii) provisions under which the interests of developing country would be safeguarded;
1
Melendez-Ortiz, Ricardo., and Ali Dehlavi. 1999. “Sustainable Development and Environmental Policy Objectives:
A case for Updating Special and Differential Treatment in the WTO”
2
WTO. 2000. Implementation of Special and Differential Treatment Provisions in WTO Agreements and Decisions.Geneva
more
2. Page 2 www.crnm.org
(iii) flexibility of commitments, of action, and use of policy instruments;
(iv) transitional time periods;
(v) technical assistance; and
(vi) provisions relating to least-developed country Members.
4. The aforementioned classification would be applied to the CARIFORUM-EC EPA in the identification
of S&DT provisions.
Special & Differential Treatment in the EPA
5. The principle of S&DT is a central pillar of the EPA between CARIFORUM and the EC. In this
regard, Article 35.3 of the Cotonou Partnership Agreement (CPA) reaffirms the centrality of S&DT in
the EPAs. Specifically, the Article states that “economic and trade cooperation shall take account of
the different needs and levels of development of the ACP countries and regions. In this context, the
Parties reaffirm their attachment to ensuring special and differential treatment for all ACP countries
and to maintaining special treatment for ACP LDCs and to taking due account of the vulnerability of
small, landlocked and island countries.”
6. Moreover, according to Article 1(f) of the EPA, the objectives of the Agreement include
“Strengthening the existing relations between the Parties on the basis of solidarity and mutual
interest. To this end, taking into account their respective levels of development and consistent with
WTO obligations, the Agreement shall enhance commercial and economic relations, support a new
trading dynamic between the Parties by means of the progressive, asymmetrical liberalisation of
trade between them and reinforce, broaden and deepen cooperation in all areas relevant to trade
and investment.”
7. In giving expression to the principle of S&DT, a cursory examination of the CARIFORUM-EU EPA
would confirm that the Agreement is punctuated with S&DT provisions. However, in an effort not to
reproduce the entire text of the Agreement, only the key S&DT provisions will be enumerated below.
The provisions contained in the EPA are not only rooted in a desire to address the disparities in
economic situation and capacities between the Parties, but also, an effort to ensure consistency
across negotiating theatres as it relates to policy space, as well as in support of CARIFORUM’s
regional integration processes.
KEY Special & Differential Treatment Provisions
8. An overarching S&DT provision is in the area of development cooperation. Not only is there a
chapter on development cooperation which sets the scope and priorities for such cooperation, but
embedded in every substantive chapter of the EPA are subject-specific cooperation provisions which
aim at facilitating implementation of commitments, improving CARIFORUM’s ability to take
advantage of the opportunities contained in the Agreement through increased competitiveness,
improved export capabilities, fostering closer integration, building human, legal and institutional
capacity and enhancing technological and research capabilities inter alia.
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Trade in Goods:
Customs Duties
9. The most noticeable S&DT provision is this area relates to the levels of tariff reduction commitments
between CARIFORUM and the EC. Whereas the latter commits to full duty-free, quota-free (DF/QF)
for all tariff lines immediately, save for sugar and rice which will be subject to short transition periods,
CARIFORUM commits to liberalise 86.9%3 of the value of its imports from the EC over twenty-five
years, with three year moratorium across the board except for vehicles, parts and gasoline will
benefit from ten years moratorium. Haiti is exempted from liberalisation of gasoline. Consequently,
S&DT is with respect to both coverage as well as transition time period;
10. Similarly, with respect to Other Duties and Charges, CARIFORUM commits to eliminate such
charges in ten years, with the flexibility that reduction will commence after year seven;
11. S&DT is also accorded to the treatment of export duties, where CARIFORUM States which currently
apply such duties have three years within which to eliminate them4;
12. As regards MFN clause, whereas the EC commits to offer CARIFORUM States MFN treatment as a
result of the EC becoming a party to a free trade area (FTA) with a third state, CARIFORUM
commits only to accord MFN treatment to the EC with respect to FTAs with any “major trading
economy5”. Moreover, CARIFORUM has recourse to the Trade and Development Committee to
seek a decision to deny offering MFN treatment to the EC for any FTA a “major trading economy”;
13. Under the rubric of provisions to safeguard the interest of developing countries, CARIFORUM has
the flexibility to, in the event of serious difficulties in respect of imports of a given product; modify the
time schedule for reduction or elimination. Such modification, however, would not lead to the time
periods for reduction or elimination being extended. Further, CARIFORUM-designated LDCs and
Guyana also have the flexibility to seek modification of customs duty stipulated in CARIFORUM’s
Schedule of Commitments;
14. The Chapter-specific cooperation priorities in this area include cooperation efforts aimed at
strengthening tax administration and improving tax revenues collection by facilitating technical
assistance in the area of fiscal reform as well as capacity and institution building.
3
CARIFORUM liberalisation commitments would be implemented as follows: 52.8% of which 51% already attract no duty will
be zero rated from the start of implementation of liberalisation commitments; an additional 3.2% in 5 years, 8.3% in 10 years;
21.7%, 1.9% and 2.3% in 15, 20 and 25 years respectively, cumulatively accounting for 86.9% of EC imports.
4
Only Guyana and Suriname currently apply export duties, in particular on forestry products
5
Major trading economy means any developed country, or any country or territory accounting for a share of world merchandise
exports above 1 percent in the year before the entry into force of the free trade agreement, or any group of countries acting
individually, collectively or through an free trade agreement accounting collectively for a share of world merchandise exports
above 1.5 percent in the year before the entry into force of the free trade agreement
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Trade Defence Measures
15. As part of the EC’s commitment to safeguard the interest of CARIFORUM States, as it relates to
multilateral safeguard measures, the EC commits to exclude the latter exports from multilateral
safeguard measures as provided for in the WTO. Further, as it relates to antidumping and
countervailing measures, as an additional S&DT provision, the EC commits to consider the use of
constructive remedies before definitive antidumping or countervailing duties on CARIFORUM’s
exports to the EC are applied.
Non-tariff Measures
16. At least three key S&DT provisions can be extracted from the chapter on Non-tariff Measures. The
first is referred to as the zero for zero treatment of EU export subsidies. Essentially, what it means is
that the EC commits to eliminate export subsidies on all tariff lines that CARIFORUM liberalise. The
second provision allows CARIFORUM to maintain recourse to Article 9.46 of the Agreement on
Agriculture and Article 27 of the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures. Finally, on
export prohibition, the EC undertakes not to challenge Law No. 147 of 27 December 2000 of the
Dominican Republic which applies to the importation of motor vehicles and motor cycles in excess of
a certain number of years. This commitment is reflected in a Joint Declaration on Used Goods.
Trade Facilitation
17. Similar to the other thematic areas, the Trade Facilitation Chapter places strong emphasis on co-
operation between the EC and CARIFORUM. Further, due recognition is given to the differences in
level of institutional development and capacities, application of best practices and international
standards of the Customs Administrations in the EC and CARIFORUM. Consequently, a number of
CARIFORUM commitments are conditional on the provision of technical and technological
assistance, financial support and training. Therefore, in light of this systemic concern, the Agreement
establishes a clear link between the implementation of specific commitments by CARIFORUM
States and the delivery of development support in the following areas:
a. the application of modern customs techniques, including risk assessment, advance binding
rulings, simplified procedures for entry and release of goods, post release controls and company
audit methods ;
b. introduction of procedures and practices which reflect as far as practicable, international
instruments and standards applicable in the field of customs and trade, including WTO rules and
WCO instruments and standards, inter alia the revised Kyoto Convention on the simplification and
harmonisation of customs procedures and the WCO Framework of Standard to Secure and
Facilitate Global Trade; and
6
6 This relates to subsidies to reduce the costs of marketing exports of agricultural products, including handling, upgrading and
other processing costs, and the costs of international transport and freight; and providing internal transport charges on export
shipments terms more favourable than those for domestic shipment.
CRNM Brief
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c. the automation of customs and other trade procedures.
Agriculture and Fisheries
18. Where compliance with the Agreement leads to problems with the availability of, or access to,
foodstuffs or other products essential to ensure food security of a CARIFORUM State and where this
situation gives rise or is likely to give rise to major difficulties for such a CARIFORUM State,
CARIFORUM State may take appropriate measures in accordance with the provisions on bilateral
safeguards;
19. Additionally, the EC commits to endeavour to maintain significant preferential access within the
multilateral trading system for CARIFORUM’s traditional agricultural products for as long as is feasible
and to ensure that any unavoidable reduction in preference is phased in over as long a period as
possible;
20. The cooperation priorities include facilitating support aimed at improving competitiveness;
development of export marketing capabilities, compliance with and adoption of quality standards
relating to food production and marketing; promotion of private investment and public-private
partnerships in potentially viable production; improvement in the ability of CARIFORUM operators to
comply with national, regional and international technical, health and quality standards for fish and fish
products; and building or strengthening the scientific and technical human and institutional capability
at regional level for sustainable trade in fisheries products, including aquaculture.
Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures/Technical Barriers to Trade
21. The provisions of the Agreements on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures and Technical Barriers to
Trade were reaffirmed in the EPA. Consequently, the S&DT provisions contained therein would apply.
Further, the Parties agree to cooperate in international standard setting bodies, including by facilitating
the participation by representatives of the CARIFORUM States in the meetings and the work of these
bodies.
22. Development cooperation initiatives will include: establishment of the appropriate arrangements for
the sharing of expertise; development of centres of expertise within CARIFORUM for the assessment
of goods access into the EC market; development of the capacity of enterprises, in particular
CARIFORUM enterprises to meet regulatory and market requirements; developing and adopting
harmonized technical regulations, standards and conformity assessment procedures based on
relevant international standards; reinforcement of regional integration and the improvement of
monitoring, implementation and enforcement of SPS measures; cooperation in the international
CRNM Brief
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bodies, including the facilitation of participation of representatives of CARIFORUM States in the
meeting of these bodies.
Investment, Trade in Services and E-Commerce
23. On Services, similar asymmetries exist with respect to scope of liberalisation as in the area of goods
trade. The EC has agreed to liberalise 94% of their services sector in the W120 list. Several sectors
are of export interest to CARIFORUM such as Tourism, Recreation services, Business services. On
the other hand, CARIFORUM States sectoral coverage is around 65 and 75% for LDCs and MDCs
respectively. The Dominican Republic has made the most ambitious offer for CARIFORUM States
with liberalisation commitments of approximately 90%.
24. Additional asymmetry exists with respect to The Bahamas and Haiti which have six months to submit
their respective liberalisation schedules.
25. CARIFORUM was also able to maintain special reservations for small and medium-sized enterprises
(SMEs) in several sectors, as well as the right to regulate any sector or economic activity to meet
national policy objectives.
26. Other forms of S&DT, especially with respect to tourism services include the commitment by the EC:
• to facilitate the transfer of technology on a commercial basis to establishments in the Signatory
CARIFORUM States as it relates to tourism services;
• to encourage the participation of CARIFORUM services suppliers in international, regional, sub-
regional, bilateral and private financing programs to support the sustainable development of
tourism; and
• to facilitate the participation of the Signatory CARIFORUM States in relevant international
organizations setting environmental and quality standards applicable to tourism services.
Trade-Related Issues:
27. The Trade-related Issues (TRIs) in the EPA comprise the following areas: Competition Policy, Innovation
and Intellectual Property, Public Procurement, Environmental, Social Aspects, and Protection of Personal
Data.
28. On Competition Policy, the two Sides committed to have legislation in place to address restrictions on
competition in their jurisdiction within five years of the coming into force of the EPA. While this provision is
available to both the EC and CARIFORUM, the time period for implementation is more relevant to
CARIFORUM given its competition authorities are still in a stage of infancy. Another S&DT relates to
“public enterprises and enterprises entrusted with special exclusive rights”. Specifically, where such
CRNM Brief
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enterprises in CARIFORUM States are subjected to specific sectoral rules as mandated by their
respective regulatory frameworks they would not be bound or governed by provisions contained therein.
29. The cooperation priorities include support to facilitate the efficient functioning of the CARIFORUM
Competition Authorities; assistance in drafting guidelines, manuals and, where necessary, legislation; the
provision of independent experts; and the provision of training for key personnel involved in the
implementation of and enforcement of competition policy.
30. With regard to Innovation and Intellectual Property, the S&DT provisions relate to, inter alia, transition
time period, differential in Treaty compliance and measures aimed at increasing trade opportunities such a
transfer of technology. Most notable in this regard are:
• the commitment by the two Sides to implement the provisions on IP by 2014. unless determined
otherwise by the CARIFORUM-EC Trade and Development Committee taking into account the
development priorities and levels of development of the Signatory CARIFORUM States;
• flexibility accorded to CARIFORUM to establish a system of protection of geographical indication
in their respective territories no later than 1 January 2014;
• exemption of least developed countries from the provisions on intellectual property, other than on
equal pace with what may be required of them with regard to the implementation of the TRIPS
Agreement as well as the flexibility to implement the provisions relating to standards on
intellectual property and enforcement no later than 1 January 2021;
• the transfer of technology to institutions and enterprises of the CARIFORUM States in order to
enable the CARIFORUM States to establish a viable technological base.
31. Cooperation priorities with respect to Innovation comprise initiatives in the area of competitiveness and
innovation, science and technology, information society and information and communication technology
and eco-innovation and renewable energy. With respect to Intellectual Property, the cooperation priorities
include: reinforcement of regional initiatives, organisations and offices, support in the preparation of
national laws and regulations and the identification of products that could benefit from protection as
geographical indications.
32. On Public Procurement, as regards transparency, CARIFORUM States have two years, save for
CARICOM-designated LDCs which have five years, from the entry into force of the EPA to bring their
measures into conformity with any specific procedural obligation contained therein. Further, if at the end of
the aforementioned implementation, a review by the Trade and Development Committee reveals that one
or more CARIFORUM States need additional time to comply with their implementation commitments, the
implementation period may be extended by one year.
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33. Exchange of experience and information about best practices and regulatory frameworks; establishment
and maintenance of appropriate systems and mechanisms to facilitate compliance with the obligations on
public procurement; and creation of an on-line facility at the regional level for the effective dissemination of
information on tendering opportunities, so as to facilitate the awareness of all companies about
procurement processes.
34. On Environment, it was agreed that the special needs and requirements of CARIFORUM States shall be
taken into account in the design and implementation of measures aimed at protecting environment and
public health that affect trade.
35. The cooperation priorities include the provision of technical assistance to producers in meeting standards
applicable in European Community markets; promotion and facilitation of private and public voluntary and
market-based schemes including relevant labelling and accreditation schemes; technical assistance and
capacity building, in particular to the public sector, in the implementation and enforcement of multilateral
environmental agreements, including with respect to trade-related aspects; and assistance to producers to
develop and/or improve production of goods and services, which the Parties consider to be beneficial to
the environment.
36. On Protection of Personal Data, CARIFORUM has the flexibility to implement the provisions contained
therein no later than seven years after the entry into force of the Agreement.
37. The cooperation priorities in this area include exchange of information and expertise; assistance in drafting
legislation, guidelines and manuals; provision of training for key personnel; assistance with the
establishment and functioning of relevant institutional frameworks; and assistance with the design and
implementation of compliance initiatives aimed at economic operators and consumers in order to stimulate
investor and public confidence.
As is evident from the above the provisions on special and differential treatment cuts across all of the thematic
areas of the EPA. Some provisions are mandatory whereas others can be considered best endeavour. What is
important, however, is the operationalisation of the provisions. An important element in this regard is the
Regional Preparatory Task Force process whose mandate is to translate needs for support identified in the
negotiations into operational ideas for trade-related and other development assistance and work out these
ideas up to the level of pre-identification of fundable actions.
Want to know more
about the Economic
Partnership
Agreement?
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