WTO Ministers resolve to strengthen special trade provisions
In a landmark declaration circulated by the Minister Facilitator on Development, H.E. The Hon. Mr Kerrie Symmonds, M.P., Minister of Foreign Affairs of Barbados, WTO ministers have committed to bolstering special and differential treatment (S&DT) provisions within key trade agreements.
Underlining the integral role of S&DT in WTO accords, ministers emphasized the need for precision, effectiveness, and operational functionality within these mechanisms. The declaration, dated 29 February 2024, underscores ongoing efforts to tackle challenges highlighted within the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS Agreement) and the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT Agreement).
Acknowledging the critical role of technical assistance, training, and capacity building, particularly for developing and least developed countries, ministers underscored the imperative of supporting effective implementation of SPS and TBT Agreements.
A key aspect of the declaration is the call for improvements in training and technical assistance, aimed at assisting developing Members and LDCs in navigating SPS and TBT matters. Additionally, there’s an emphasis on enhancing transparency surrounding comment periods related to SPS and TBT measures, including providing information on extensions.
Ministers have instructed officials to intensify efforts within the WTO Committee on Trade and Development in Special Session (CTD SS), the SPS Committee, and the TBT Committee, focusing on enhancing S&DT implementation for developing Members and LDCs. A progress report on these endeavors is slated for December 2024.
Furthermore, officials are directed to continue refining the application of S&DT within the CTD SS and other relevant WTO platforms, with a progress report due to the General Council before MC14.
The declaration signifies a concerted effort by WTO members to address disparities and fortify trade provisions, marking a significant step towards fostering fair and inclusive global trade practices.
