Archive - nov 21, 2005 - Article

Latin America and the Caribbean are demanding that the world's rich countries dismantle their protectionist systems of farm subsidies as they seek to sustain and expand on the success enjoyed by farm exports in the region, which have, however, failed to provide significant benefits for the broader population.

A report published on 21 November 2005 has attacked what it claims is the overwhelming influence exerted by corporate lobbyists on the trade agenda pursued by the European Commission.

Activists from fair trade groups protested outside an EU trade and foreign ministers meeting Monday, calling for negotiators to put people ahead of business at world trade talks next month.

EU foreign ministers were briefed on 21 November by EU Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson on progress in WTO trade talks less than three weeks ahead of the Hong Kong WTO Summit.