To stimulate debate, the WTO has created a specific web page where individuals can express their views on the role of production sharing networks in spurring bilateral and regional trade agreements and the nature of the challenge they pose to the WTO. The aim is to encourage discussion among WTO delegates, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academic experts, WTO staff members and all those with an active interest in preferential trade agreements.
 
In the months leading up to publication of the Report in July 2011, short articles concerning such agreements will be posted on the web page. Members of the research and policy community can contribute to this discussion by submitting papers of their own or by commenting on the papers already submitted. Comments are also sought from any individuals with an interest in this topic. All contributions will be taken into consideration by the authors of the World Trade Report 2011.
 
“New era” preferential trade agreements are less about preferential tariffs and more about trade provisions that are crucial to the success of production sharing networks, such as establishment rights, repatriation of profits, temporary movement of personnel, infrastructure services, trade facilitation, rules of origin, and dispute settlement mechanisms accessible to private agents. 
 
“Preferential trade agreements” is used in academic literature to refer to reciprocal free trade agreements and regional trade agreements. This term will be used throughout the report.
 
Publication of the WTO's flagship publication is scheduled for July 2011. More information on the discussion forum can be found here.