This presentation illustrates the Trade in services issues within the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
BoFiNet is a state-owned Botswanan company mandated to operate and manage the national fiber and duct infrastructure as a wholesaler. Its vision is to be a world-class ICT organization for a globally connected Botswana. It provides wholesale broadband connectivity nationally and internationally. It has invested in the EASSy and WACS submarine cables to connect Botswana to Europe and South Africa. It is working to expand its national backbone network and provide last mile fiber connectivity through its FTTB and public WiFi projects. Key challenges include the high cost of international connectivity and network outages. Opportunities include improving cross-border connectivity with neighbors and using infrastructure to facilitate digital inclusion and economic growth. Recommendations include regional
This document summarizes the 8th Annual African Digital Broadcasting Switchover Forum that took place from February 11-13, 2013 in Johannesburg, South Africa. The forum focused on delivering HDTV and wireless broadband services with improved spectrum technologies. Topics discussed included digitization, new social TV platforms, interactive TV systems like MHEG-5 and HbbTV, mobile TV systems, compression technologies like MPEG2 and HEVC, and lessons for broadcasters to engage audiences in the new media landscape. The forum aimed to help African countries and broadcasters successfully manage the transition to digital broadcasting.
Cybermoor broadband upgrade details October 2014daniel.heery
- Eurona Group is a telecommunications operator focused on rural broadband and wifi hotspots in Spain and other countries.
- They have over 700 fixed wireless sites, 9,000 wifi access points, and provide services to over 40,000 hotel rooms.
- The presentation discusses Eurona Group's plans to invest £50,000 to upgrade the existing Cybermoor network in the Alston Moor region of the UK to increase bandwidth, expand coverage area, and improve reliability of the network.
This document provides examples of different approaches to financing fiber broadband projects around the world. It discusses examples where governments have fully financed projects in countries like Australia, Qatar, and Oman. Public-private partnerships are discussed that involved both government and private funding in places like Sweden, New Zealand, and several European countries. Entirely privately financed projects by companies like Verizon and in countries like the UAE are also overviewed. The document concludes with observations that government-led projects often face problems, that kickstarting private sector investment through partnerships is effective, and that project finance could help leverage taxpayer funds if the right regulatory framework and bankable business case were established.
FITT Toolbox: Network of Technology Transfer ContactsFITT
In order to facilitate the continuous watch of the labs activities and make up for the geographical distance with some research teams, a French technology transfer office has appointed local ‘technology transfer’ reference persons in some labs. Close to the teams, these contact persons act as intermediaries between researchers and technology transfer officers. To find out more about this way of structuring the information flow, with great impact on awareness raising and early detection of projects with transfer potential, the following documents will provide additional information and feedbacks about its implementation.
www.FITT-for-Innovation.eu
This brief covers the Treatment of Professional Services within the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
BoFiNet is a state-owned Botswanan company mandated to operate and manage the national fiber and duct infrastructure as a wholesaler. Its vision is to be a world-class ICT organization for a globally connected Botswana. It provides wholesale broadband connectivity nationally and internationally. It has invested in the EASSy and WACS submarine cables to connect Botswana to Europe and South Africa. It is working to expand its national backbone network and provide last mile fiber connectivity through its FTTB and public WiFi projects. Key challenges include the high cost of international connectivity and network outages. Opportunities include improving cross-border connectivity with neighbors and using infrastructure to facilitate digital inclusion and economic growth. Recommendations include regional
This document summarizes the 8th Annual African Digital Broadcasting Switchover Forum that took place from February 11-13, 2013 in Johannesburg, South Africa. The forum focused on delivering HDTV and wireless broadband services with improved spectrum technologies. Topics discussed included digitization, new social TV platforms, interactive TV systems like MHEG-5 and HbbTV, mobile TV systems, compression technologies like MPEG2 and HEVC, and lessons for broadcasters to engage audiences in the new media landscape. The forum aimed to help African countries and broadcasters successfully manage the transition to digital broadcasting.
Cybermoor broadband upgrade details October 2014daniel.heery
- Eurona Group is a telecommunications operator focused on rural broadband and wifi hotspots in Spain and other countries.
- They have over 700 fixed wireless sites, 9,000 wifi access points, and provide services to over 40,000 hotel rooms.
- The presentation discusses Eurona Group's plans to invest £50,000 to upgrade the existing Cybermoor network in the Alston Moor region of the UK to increase bandwidth, expand coverage area, and improve reliability of the network.
This document provides examples of different approaches to financing fiber broadband projects around the world. It discusses examples where governments have fully financed projects in countries like Australia, Qatar, and Oman. Public-private partnerships are discussed that involved both government and private funding in places like Sweden, New Zealand, and several European countries. Entirely privately financed projects by companies like Verizon and in countries like the UAE are also overviewed. The document concludes with observations that government-led projects often face problems, that kickstarting private sector investment through partnerships is effective, and that project finance could help leverage taxpayer funds if the right regulatory framework and bankable business case were established.
FITT Toolbox: Network of Technology Transfer ContactsFITT
In order to facilitate the continuous watch of the labs activities and make up for the geographical distance with some research teams, a French technology transfer office has appointed local ‘technology transfer’ reference persons in some labs. Close to the teams, these contact persons act as intermediaries between researchers and technology transfer officers. To find out more about this way of structuring the information flow, with great impact on awareness raising and early detection of projects with transfer potential, the following documents will provide additional information and feedbacks about its implementation.
www.FITT-for-Innovation.eu
This brief covers the Treatment of Professional Services within the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
The document provides tips and guidance for networking to benefit one's business. It discusses creating a group of acquaintances and associates through regular communication. Networking should be done with the mindset of "How can I help?" rather than "What can I get?". The document also discusses adapting one's behavior to meet the needs of others, developing an effective elevator pitch, and tips for successful networking such as consistency, commitment, being targeted, and following through on promises.
The modern restoration of Chesapeake Bay began in 1983 with the signing of the first Chesapeake Bay Agreement. The last major agreement was signed in 2000 with the key water quality goals set for 2010 – and missed. EPA, the six Bay watershed states, the District of Columbia and the Chesapeake Bay Commission are working on a new 2013 Chesapeake Bay Program Partnership Agreement. The Program plans to finalize the agreement this fall and have it signed at their Chesapeake Executive Council meeting.
This document provides an overview of various digital marketing strategies and tactics. It discusses using social networks like Facebook and LinkedIn for business purposes. It also covers viral video marketing, email marketing, blogging, and using Twitter. For each tactic, it provides tips on how to get started and highlights potential benefits like increasing brand awareness, growing an audience, and low costs of some online marketing approaches.
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.
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 document discusses using trade agreements as tools for exploring investment opportunities. It provides an overview of how trade agreements can liberalize barriers and provide preferential market access, which can attract foreign investors. Trade agreements that contain provisions on investment liberalization, protection, promotion and facilitation can further signal openness to investment. The document then discusses the CARICOM market and the potential impact of the draft CARICOM Investment Code to enhance intra-regional investment. Finally, it covers St. Lucia's investment relationship with the EU and opportunities provided by the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement, including sectors committed to by St. Lucia.
DFQF means duty-free and quota-free access
CRNM EPA Overview
Workshop for Regional Media 33
Barbados * 15th February 2008
5. WHAT ACCESS DID CARIFORUM GIVE?
- Gradual liberalisation of imports from EU over 25 years:
- Sensitive products (rice, poultry, dairy, sugar) longer
- LDCs (Haiti) longer still
- SMEs protected
- Tariffs to be eliminated on:
- 87% of EU imports by year 15
- Remaining 13% by year 25
- No quotas or prohibitions
- Services liberalised gradually over 10-15 years depending on
mode of
This presentation illustrates the overall negotiation process around the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
This presentation illustrates the market access provisions for agriculture and goods under the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
This presentation illustrates the market access provisions for agriculture and goods under the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
Presentation by Private Sector Sector Specialist at a Business Luncheon hosted by SVG EPA Implementation Unit in Collaboration with SVG Chamber of Industry and Commerece
The EPA agreement between Cariforum and the EU contains comprehensive rules on services and investment. It liberalizes over 90% of sectors for EU investment in Cariforum states and provides opportunities for Caribbean professionals to supply services in the EU. Notably, the EU has opened its entertainment services sector to CSS from Cariforum without quotas. The agreement also includes a protocol on cultural cooperation to facilitate movement of artists between the regions. While Cariforum's commitments are more limited in scope, most states have opened key business services sectors. The agreement establishes dispute settlement procedures for violations of commitments.
West African Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance, El Hadji Mbaye D...OECD Environment
The West African Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance aims to:
1. Foster active participation by West African countries in UNFCCC negotiations.
2. Promote access to carbon markets and climate finance for its members, which include 15 West African countries and Mauritania.
3. Support members' implementation of their NDCs and transition of CDM activities and capacities to the Paris Agreement context, including through pilot projects in Nigeria and Togo.
Trade in services By. Ms. Allyson Francis - Trade in Services & Investment Sp...Antigua Epa
This document provides an outline and overview of trade in services and investment provisions in the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) States and the European Union (EU). It discusses key aspects of the EPA related to investment, services offers, and commitments by both parties. It also outlines challenges, opportunities, and next steps related to implementing the EPA provisions on trade in services and investment.
The Brussels Development Briefing n.47 on the subject of “Regional Trade in Africa: Drivers, Trends and Opportunities” took place on 3rd February 2017 in Brussels at the ACP Secretariat (Avenue Georges Henri 451, 1200 Brussels) from 09:00 to 13:00. This Briefing was organised by the ACP-EU Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA), in collaboration with IFPRI, the European Commission / DEVCO, the ACP Secretariat, and CONCORD .
Overview & local businesses can access the EU market - Mr. Lincoln Price - Pr...Antigua Epa
This session will contextualize focus on the shift in the nature of trade relationship between CARIFORUM and the European Union with the signature of the EPA. In particular, it will address issues related to WTO compatibility, Reciprocity, Regional Integration, Most Favoured Nation Treatment, National Treatment, The New Emphasis on Services and Investment, Development Cooperation, and Trade Related Issues particularly Intellectual Property.
This session also seeks to discuss market access opportunities in services within the EU Market available to local businesses, paying particular attention to the services sector committed by Antigua and Barbuda, including but not limited to financial services, tourism, telecommunication services, marine services and transport, professional services, cultural services, health and wellness and construction services. This discussion should also include the required preparatory steps to be taken by local businesses to access markets under Mode 1 – Cross Border Supply and Mode 4 – Temporary Movement of Persons, as well as identify common non-tariff barriers that exist within the EU market.
The General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) sets the framework for liberalizing international trade in services. It establishes rules for market access, national treatment, and domestic regulation for trade in services. The objective is to progressively reduce barriers to services trade through negotiations. Tourism services have been highly liberalized under GATS compared to other sectors. However, GATS commitments could influence domestic regulation and environmental policies.
The document discusses EU support for regional integration and services liberalization in East Africa. It outlines provisions in the Cotonou Agreement and Interim EPAs that require supporting regional integration and services trade capacity. It then describes the various EU instruments that could provide this support, including regional and national indicative programs, and identifies priority areas from the Regional Preparatory Task Force, including trade in goods/data, EPA negotiations/implementation, and supporting services sectors and trade-related issues.
This document discusses a symposium on regional ICT policy development and its role in social and economic transformation. It summarizes CANTO's initiative to connect the Caribbean through broadband infrastructure, in partnership with the IDB and Caribbean governments. The partnerships aim to launch a project to accelerate broadband adoption in the Caribbean by conducting broadband diagnostics, reviewing frameworks, raising ICT awareness, and providing policy recommendations. The official project launch will be held in February 2013 in Trinidad and Tobago.
The CARIFORUM-EU Business Forum was established in 2008 following the signing of the Economic Partnership Agreement between the CARIFORUM region and the EU. The forum aims to promote business and identify key sectors for economic growth, including information and communication technology. The EU imports more services from CARIFORUM in sectors like travel, transport, and communication, while exporting more insurance, financial, and computer services. The EPA seeks to increase investment flows between the regions and support sectors like telecoms, financial services, and tourism. The forum's recommendations include strengthening sector organizations, collaboration between governments and businesses, and skills training to help CARIFORUM benefit from the EPA.
Florin Toma, member of the International Federation of Accountant's Small and Medium Practices (SMP) Committee provides a look at the future of financial reporting for micro-entities.
The document provides an overview of COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa), including its history, member countries, vision, mission, objectives, programs, and challenges. COMESA was established in 1981 as a preferential trade area and transformed into a common market via treaty in 1993. It currently has 19 member countries in Eastern and Southern Africa and aims to achieve economic integration and raise living standards. Key objectives include sustainable development, cooperation in various fields like trade and investment, and establishing an African Economic Community. Major programs focus on trade liberalization, facilitation, and private sector development. Challenges include differences in geography, history, politics and economies between members that complicate full integration and achievement of COMESA's
The document provides tips and guidance for networking to benefit one's business. It discusses creating a group of acquaintances and associates through regular communication. Networking should be done with the mindset of "How can I help?" rather than "What can I get?". The document also discusses adapting one's behavior to meet the needs of others, developing an effective elevator pitch, and tips for successful networking such as consistency, commitment, being targeted, and following through on promises.
The modern restoration of Chesapeake Bay began in 1983 with the signing of the first Chesapeake Bay Agreement. The last major agreement was signed in 2000 with the key water quality goals set for 2010 – and missed. EPA, the six Bay watershed states, the District of Columbia and the Chesapeake Bay Commission are working on a new 2013 Chesapeake Bay Program Partnership Agreement. The Program plans to finalize the agreement this fall and have it signed at their Chesapeake Executive Council meeting.
This document provides an overview of various digital marketing strategies and tactics. It discusses using social networks like Facebook and LinkedIn for business purposes. It also covers viral video marketing, email marketing, blogging, and using Twitter. For each tactic, it provides tips on how to get started and highlights potential benefits like increasing brand awareness, growing an audience, and low costs of some online marketing approaches.
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.
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 document discusses using trade agreements as tools for exploring investment opportunities. It provides an overview of how trade agreements can liberalize barriers and provide preferential market access, which can attract foreign investors. Trade agreements that contain provisions on investment liberalization, protection, promotion and facilitation can further signal openness to investment. The document then discusses the CARICOM market and the potential impact of the draft CARICOM Investment Code to enhance intra-regional investment. Finally, it covers St. Lucia's investment relationship with the EU and opportunities provided by the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement, including sectors committed to by St. Lucia.
DFQF means duty-free and quota-free access
CRNM EPA Overview
Workshop for Regional Media 33
Barbados * 15th February 2008
5. WHAT ACCESS DID CARIFORUM GIVE?
- Gradual liberalisation of imports from EU over 25 years:
- Sensitive products (rice, poultry, dairy, sugar) longer
- LDCs (Haiti) longer still
- SMEs protected
- Tariffs to be eliminated on:
- 87% of EU imports by year 15
- Remaining 13% by year 25
- No quotas or prohibitions
- Services liberalised gradually over 10-15 years depending on
mode of
This presentation illustrates the overall negotiation process around the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
This presentation illustrates the market access provisions for agriculture and goods under the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
This presentation illustrates the market access provisions for agriculture and goods under the CARIFORUM-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which was concluded on December 16, 2007, and signed in October 15, 2008.
Presentation by Private Sector Sector Specialist at a Business Luncheon hosted by SVG EPA Implementation Unit in Collaboration with SVG Chamber of Industry and Commerece
The EPA agreement between Cariforum and the EU contains comprehensive rules on services and investment. It liberalizes over 90% of sectors for EU investment in Cariforum states and provides opportunities for Caribbean professionals to supply services in the EU. Notably, the EU has opened its entertainment services sector to CSS from Cariforum without quotas. The agreement also includes a protocol on cultural cooperation to facilitate movement of artists between the regions. While Cariforum's commitments are more limited in scope, most states have opened key business services sectors. The agreement establishes dispute settlement procedures for violations of commitments.
West African Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance, El Hadji Mbaye D...OECD Environment
The West African Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance aims to:
1. Foster active participation by West African countries in UNFCCC negotiations.
2. Promote access to carbon markets and climate finance for its members, which include 15 West African countries and Mauritania.
3. Support members' implementation of their NDCs and transition of CDM activities and capacities to the Paris Agreement context, including through pilot projects in Nigeria and Togo.
Trade in services By. Ms. Allyson Francis - Trade in Services & Investment Sp...Antigua Epa
This document provides an outline and overview of trade in services and investment provisions in the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) States and the European Union (EU). It discusses key aspects of the EPA related to investment, services offers, and commitments by both parties. It also outlines challenges, opportunities, and next steps related to implementing the EPA provisions on trade in services and investment.
The Brussels Development Briefing n.47 on the subject of “Regional Trade in Africa: Drivers, Trends and Opportunities” took place on 3rd February 2017 in Brussels at the ACP Secretariat (Avenue Georges Henri 451, 1200 Brussels) from 09:00 to 13:00. This Briefing was organised by the ACP-EU Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA), in collaboration with IFPRI, the European Commission / DEVCO, the ACP Secretariat, and CONCORD .
Overview & local businesses can access the EU market - Mr. Lincoln Price - Pr...Antigua Epa
This session will contextualize focus on the shift in the nature of trade relationship between CARIFORUM and the European Union with the signature of the EPA. In particular, it will address issues related to WTO compatibility, Reciprocity, Regional Integration, Most Favoured Nation Treatment, National Treatment, The New Emphasis on Services and Investment, Development Cooperation, and Trade Related Issues particularly Intellectual Property.
This session also seeks to discuss market access opportunities in services within the EU Market available to local businesses, paying particular attention to the services sector committed by Antigua and Barbuda, including but not limited to financial services, tourism, telecommunication services, marine services and transport, professional services, cultural services, health and wellness and construction services. This discussion should also include the required preparatory steps to be taken by local businesses to access markets under Mode 1 – Cross Border Supply and Mode 4 – Temporary Movement of Persons, as well as identify common non-tariff barriers that exist within the EU market.
The General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) sets the framework for liberalizing international trade in services. It establishes rules for market access, national treatment, and domestic regulation for trade in services. The objective is to progressively reduce barriers to services trade through negotiations. Tourism services have been highly liberalized under GATS compared to other sectors. However, GATS commitments could influence domestic regulation and environmental policies.
The document discusses EU support for regional integration and services liberalization in East Africa. It outlines provisions in the Cotonou Agreement and Interim EPAs that require supporting regional integration and services trade capacity. It then describes the various EU instruments that could provide this support, including regional and national indicative programs, and identifies priority areas from the Regional Preparatory Task Force, including trade in goods/data, EPA negotiations/implementation, and supporting services sectors and trade-related issues.
This document discusses a symposium on regional ICT policy development and its role in social and economic transformation. It summarizes CANTO's initiative to connect the Caribbean through broadband infrastructure, in partnership with the IDB and Caribbean governments. The partnerships aim to launch a project to accelerate broadband adoption in the Caribbean by conducting broadband diagnostics, reviewing frameworks, raising ICT awareness, and providing policy recommendations. The official project launch will be held in February 2013 in Trinidad and Tobago.
The CARIFORUM-EU Business Forum was established in 2008 following the signing of the Economic Partnership Agreement between the CARIFORUM region and the EU. The forum aims to promote business and identify key sectors for economic growth, including information and communication technology. The EU imports more services from CARIFORUM in sectors like travel, transport, and communication, while exporting more insurance, financial, and computer services. The EPA seeks to increase investment flows between the regions and support sectors like telecoms, financial services, and tourism. The forum's recommendations include strengthening sector organizations, collaboration between governments and businesses, and skills training to help CARIFORUM benefit from the EPA.
Florin Toma, member of the International Federation of Accountant's Small and Medium Practices (SMP) Committee provides a look at the future of financial reporting for micro-entities.
The document provides an overview of COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa), including its history, member countries, vision, mission, objectives, programs, and challenges. COMESA was established in 1981 as a preferential trade area and transformed into a common market via treaty in 1993. It currently has 19 member countries in Eastern and Southern Africa and aims to achieve economic integration and raise living standards. Key objectives include sustainable development, cooperation in various fields like trade and investment, and establishing an African Economic Community. Major programs focus on trade liberalization, facilitation, and private sector development. Challenges include differences in geography, history, politics and economies between members that complicate full integration and achievement of COMESA's
Managing Economic Transformation and Value Chains Development: What Role for SADC Member States and the SADC Secretariat?
5-6 April 2016, Cresta Hotel, Gaborone, Botswana
GATS AGREEMENT BETWEEN 'BELIZE' and 'COSTA RICA'Shreyash Falke
WTO GATS AGREEMENT BETWEEN 'BELIZE' and 'COSTA RICA'
ON
SERVICE COMMITMENTS
GATS (General Agreement on Trade in Services)
Different modes under GATS Agreement
Case Summary
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.
Similar to CARIFORUM-EC EPA Negotiations Services And Investment (Ramesh Chaitoo) (20)
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.
This document celebrates the 40th anniversary of CARICOM (Caribbean Community). It contains speeches and articles from political leaders and experts reflecting on the progress and achievements of CARICOM over the past 40 years as well as the continued importance of Caribbean integration and cooperation going forward. Key points made include that CARICOM has advanced economic integration, functional cooperation, and the vision of a unified Caribbean community despite ongoing challenges. The document encourages continuing efforts to deepen regional integration to address global issues and take advantage of opportunities through a shared Caribbean identity and destiny.
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.
The document provides an overview of trade between the CARICOM region and the European Union (EU27). Some key points:
- CARICOM's exports to the EU27 grew by 11.8% annually from 2002-2011, compared to 10.2% annual growth in EU imports overall. However, CARICOM only accounted for 0.1% of the EU27's total import spending.
- The top CARICOM exports to the EU27 in 2011 included liquefied natural gas, cargo vessels, light petroleum distillates, and semi-manufactured gold. However, some major exports like raw cane sugar, aluminum oxide, and rum have not been growing in the EU27 market.
The 2013 National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers (NTE), which is prepared by the United States Trade Representative (USTR), surveys significant foreign barriers to U.S. exports. Although the emphasis is on foreign barriers to U.S exports, the information in the Report is a source of useful insights with respect to research and analysis regarding a number of issues and countries including, inter alia, Canada, the Dominican Republic, India and the European Union.
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CARIFORUM-EC EPA Negotiations Services And Investment (Ramesh Chaitoo)
1. EU-CARIFORUM
Economic Partnership
Agreement (EPA)
An Overview
Services & Investment
Ramesh Chaitoo
Head, Services Trade Unit
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 1
Barbados * 15th February 2008
2. Basic Structure of S& I
provisions
1. Rules or disciplines on Services &
Investment
2. Market access commitments (Schedules)
3. Protocol on Cultural cooperation
4. Link with other parts of EPA
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 2
Barbados * 15th February 2008
Preparatory work
• Decided on CF market access interests
• Very long and tedious process - national &
regional consultations, ministerials, sectoral
groups, etc.
• CRNM recommended that countries identify:
(i) Sectors in which they need investment &
efficiencies to promote development
(ii) Sectors with offensive market access
interests in the EU
(iii) Sensitive sectors
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 3
Barbados * 15th February 2008
3. Cariforum Broad objectives
• Get improved market access in EU & support
to improve export capacity in services
• Preserve the space for Caribbean countries to
continue to promote their own national
processes of economic development
• EPA Services negotiations must take into
account and be guided by the internal
regional integration process among
Caribbean countries & reflect the particular
sensitivities and needs of individual countries
and/ sub-groupings within the Caribbean.
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 4
Barbados * 15th February 2008
Cariforum Services
Objectives
• Professional services, tourism
• Entry for Short term Visitors for Business
Purposes & Mode 4
• Market access for cultural industries in spite of
EC sensitivities - Cultural protocol
• Development support for dealing with:
Information asymmetries, EU regulatory
regimes, interface with EC firms, capacity
building, etc.
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 5
Barbados * 15th February 2008
4. EU Main interests
• Big infrastructural services - finance,
maritime transport, computer and related,
environmental
• Commercial Presence (Mode 3) in
particular & key personnel
• Meet WTO rules and scrutiny
• Did not make formal requests for market
opening by CF
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 6
Barbados * 15th February 2008
Key Points
• Services supplied by government
excluded
• Subsidies not covered by Agreement
• Government free to regulate
• Government procurement not covered
• Immigration policies & procedures not
covered
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 7
Barbados * 15th February 2008
5. Structure of Services &
Investment Title
• Chap 1 - General provisions
• Chap 2 - Commercial Presence
(Investment)
• Chap 3 - Cross Border Supply of services
• Chap 4 - Temporary Presence of Natural
Persons for Business Purpose
• Chap 5 - Regulatory Framework (with
sectoral rules)
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 8
Barbados * 15th February 2008
Sectoral provisions
• Computer
• Courier
• Telecoms
• Financial services
• Maritime transport
• Tourism
6. E-commerce
7. Cooperation
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 9
Barbados * 15th February 2008
6. Investment Interests
• Address the declining interest of EU firms in
Caribbean by a new complete framework
• CF wanted comprehensive Investment
provisions: EC had limited mandate
• Create a regime for investment & trade in EPA
to attract EU & 3rd country firms to CF states
• Eliminate the need to negotiate new bilateral
investment treaties
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 10
Barbados * 15th February 2008
Investment Rules
• Market access
• National Treatment and MFN
• Excludes - nuclear materials; arms; audiovisual;
cabotage; air traffic rights
• Forbids corruption by investors
• Maintains core labour standards
• Safeguard the environment
• Forbids lowering of environmental, labour or
occupational health & safety standards to attract
investment
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 11
Barbados * 15th February 2008
7. Market Access for
investment
• EC - commitments very broad and deep except
for a few sectors such as energy, health,
education
• EC - limitations on landholding, and other
restrictions in mainly new Members
• CF - commitments in manufacturing, mining, etc
but limitations re landholding, type of corporate
entity, SMEs, etc.
• CF - Reservations in agriculture, forestry,
fishing, mining, food & beverage, furniture, in
some states; Only Dominican Republic
liberalized electricity & gas
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 12
Barbados * 15th February 2008
Rules on Services
• Mainly GATS approach
• National Treatment, MFN
• Similar exclusions of sectors as investment chapter
• Mutual recognition of qualifications
• Special categories of natural persons for temporary
entry:
– Key personnel (managers, specialists) & graduate trainees
– Business services sellers
– Contractual services suppliers
– Independent professionals
– Short term visitors for business purposes
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 13
Barbados * 15th February 2008
8. Short term visitors for
business purposes
EC and CF states to facilitate temporary
entry for the following activities for up to 90
days:
– Research & design
– Marketing
– Training seminars
– Trade fairs and exhibitions
– Sales & purchasing
– Tourism personnel
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 14
Barbados * 15th February 2008
Services Market Access
Granted
• CF - Positive list for services commitments like
GATS template; limited sectoral coverage to
60-75% of services sectors. (Dom Rep is 90
%). Some opening in the future. Very limited
Mode 4 commitments.
• EC - Different structure but positive list
• Very broad sectoral coverage - more than 90
%; much greater access granted for Mode 4 to
CF suppliers than in WTO; Limitations in new
member states & starting in 2011 & 2014
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 15
Barbados * 15th February 2008
9. Tourism
• Rules to prevent anti-competitive
behaviour by large tourism operators
• Support for SMEs
• Cooperate re mutual recognition of tourism
requirements. qualifications, licences
• Development support for training,
standards, environmental management
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 16
Barbados * 15th February 2008
Cultural Industries
• Major gains - in market access and Cultural
Protocol which provides for collaboration,
support, movement of artists and cultural
practitioners and special provisions for audio-
visual collaboration
• 26 EU states granted access for Contractual
Service suppliers in Entertainment services
• First time ever for EC in a sector that is very
sensitive and for which trade commitments are
not normally taken
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 17
Barbados * 15th February 2008
10. Entertainment Services
CPC 9619 Entertainment services (other than audio-visual)
96191 Theatrical producer, singer group, band and
orchestra entertainment services
96192 Services provided by authors, composers, sculptors,
entertainers and other individual artists
96193 Ancillary theatrical services n.e.c.
96194 Circus, amusement park and similar attraction
services
96195 Ballroom, discotheque and dance instructor
services
96199 Other entertainment services n.e.c.
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 18
Barbados * 15th February 2008
Temporary entry access for CF
Contractual Service Suppliers (CSS)
in 29 sectors in EU
1. Legal advisory services in respect of international public law and foreign
law
2. Accounting and bookkeeping services
3. Taxation advisory services
4. Architectural services
5. Urban planning and landscape architecture services
6. Engineering services
7. Integrated Engineering services
8. Medical and dental services
9. Veterinary services
10. Midwives services
11. Services provided by nurses, physiotherapists and paramedical personnel
12. Computer and related services
13. Research and development services
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 19
Barbados * 15th February 2008
11. Temporary Entry for CSS in EU
14. Advertising services
15. Market Research and Opinion Polling
16. Management consulting services
17. Services related to management consulting
18. Technical testing and analysis services
19. Related scientific and technical consulting services
20. Maintenance and repair of equipment
21. Chef de cuisine services
22. Fashion model services
23. Translation and interpretation services
24. Site investigation work
25. Higher education services (only privately-funded services)
26. Environmental services
27. Travel agencies and tour operators' services
28. Tourist guides services
29. Entertainment services other Regional Media 2008
for than audiovisual services
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
Barbados * 15th February
20
Access for Independent
Professionals in EU
1. Legal advisory services in respect of international public law
and foreign law (i.e. non-EU law)
2. Architectural services
3. Urban planning and landscape architecture services
4. Engineering services
5. Integrated Engineering services
6. Computer and related services
7. Research and development services
8. Market Research and Opinion Polling
9. Management consulting services
10. Services related to management consulting
11. Translation and interpretation services
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 21
Barbados * 15th February 2008
12. Technical Cooperation
• Improve ability of CF suppliers to meet
regulations and standards in EU
• Improve export capacity of CF suppliers (culture,
tourism, SMEs, MRAs)
• Interaction & dialogue between CF and EC firms
• Address quality and standards in CF
• Develop & implement regulatory regimes
• Establish mechanisms for promoting investment
& joint ventures
• Other activities
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 22
Barbados * 15th February 2008
Thank You
Please visit our Website:
http://www.crnm.org
Contact:
Ramesh Chaitoo
ramesh.chaitoo@crnm.org
Tel: +1246 430 1670 Fax: +1246 228 9528
CRNM EPA Overview Workshop
for Regional Media 23
Barbados * 15th February 2008