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.
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