Process issues have once again risen to the fore in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) as members brace themselves for the release of a new set of negotiating texts for agricultural and industrial tariff liberalisation at the end of this month or early February.
Environmental groups have slammed the European Union for its decision to appeal a World Trade Organization panel ruling in an EU complaint filed against a Brazilian ban on imports of retreated tires.
Martin Khor, TWN Info Service on WTO and Trade Issues
Straight after its one-month summer break, negotiations resumed this afternoon at the World Trade Organisation at the start of a last big effort to conclude the 'modalities' of agriculture and non-agricultural market access (NAMA) by the end of September or the beginning of October and thus save the Doha Round from a lengthy period of inactivity.
27 September is the anniversary of the launch of the EPA negotiations. Thursday 27 September 2007 will be the next STOP EPAs global action day. Spread the word, mobilise, organise, get ready for action on 27 September 2007!
Representatives of 21 NGOs from the Asia Pacific region have delivered an open statement urging APEC leaders to 'stop making claims' that APEC reduces poverty. The group gathered in the heart of Sydney's CBD outside the city's Town Hall while New South Wales police stood nearby to ensure Sydney-siders would be spared hearing comments critical of APEC. Police had informed the group they would be permitted todisplay signs critical of APEC but not chant, speak, or rally in public.
The US has accused South Africa, Argentina, India and Brazil of jeopardising the Doha round of world trade talks by thwarting fresh efforts to reach a deal on cuts to agricultural and industrial tariffs.
New Delhi, Sept 05: A UN body today warned developing countries such as India against rushing into bilateral or regional free trade pacts with rich nations, and advised them to retain options of implementing alternative growth plans.
