A few thoughts on the way forward
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Transcript of A few thoughts on the way forward
A few thoughts on the way forward
Julia Nielson, OECDWTO Seminar on Domestic
RegulationGeneva, 28-29 March 2004
Key questions What are the problems, if any?
What might be the role of trade rules in addressing those problems?
Answering these questions requires input from at least Trade negotiators Regulators Service suppliers/ the professions
Threshold issues Getting together
Time, resource intensive – what is the incentive? Relevance and/or impact National or international level?
But not simply a question of getting together Do we understand each other?
Terminology
Bottom line: won’t get anywhere without mutual trust and cooperation
What are the problems? What are the sorts of problems that
possible disciplines under Article VI.4 might be trying to solve? Appear to be issues
Transparency Burdensome regulation Recognition of qualifications
Need to keep asking this question as we go along
Need the input of service suppliers and regulators
Solutions in search of problems Abstract discussions
What might be the role of trade rules in addressing the problems? Not all issues can necessarily be solved
via trade rules, or under the WTO 3 main questions:
How can trade rules encourage good regulatory practices?
And work with domestic economic reform efforts How can trade rules address possible cases
where regulation is used for protection? And balance this with the right to regulate
How can trade rules help to encourage regulation that supports liberalization?
Effective liberalization can require (re)regulation
Factors to considering in the role of trade rules Trade rules are a continuum
Binding obligations, best endeavours, guidelines/ recommendations, encouragement, nothing.
Principles vs. prescription Need for flexibility and capacity to change
Resources and capacity to implement Choice of solutions needs to be mindful of
what can actually be implemented
Your views
What other factors are relevant to consideration of the role of trade rules?
What has been the experience of participants in discussing these issues?
What are your key impressions, or the messages you take way, from the views you have heard over the past 2 days?
Thank you