WTO updates 04/22
WTO panel issues report regarding Costa Rican import restrictions on Mexican avocados
The WTO circulated the panel report in the case brought by Mexico in “Costa Rica — Measures Concerning the Importation of Fresh Avocados from Mexico” (DS524).
WHO, WIPO, WTO launch trilateral COVID-19 technical assistance platform
The World Health Organization (WHO), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the WTO launched on 11 April 2022 their new Trilateral COVID-19 Technical Assistance Platform. This new tool aims to help members and WTO accession candidates address their capacity building needs to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Members accept Korean-US request for extra time for talks on washers safeguard dispute
WTO members agreed at a special meeting of the Dispute Settlement Body on 8 April to give Korea and the United States additional time to discuss a possible settlement in the dispute initiated by Korea regarding a US safeguard measure on large residential washers.
Participants reflect on future work of the ITA Committee
At a meeting of the Committee of Participants on the Expansion of Trade in Information Technology Products on 6 April, delegates reflected on the future work of the committee, building on takeaways from the ITA Symposium held in September 2021. They stressed the need for the committee’s work to keep up with developments in the global IT industry. Delegates also discussed implementation issues related to the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) and welcomed Lao PDR as a participant in the committee.
EU initiates WTO dispute complaint regarding UK low carbon energy subsidies
The European Union has requested WTO dispute consultations with the United Kingdom regarding UK measures relating to the promotion of low carbon energy generation projects. The EU request was circulated to WTO members on 30 March.
WTO, WCO launch publication on role of latest technologies in facilitating trade
A joint publication launched by the WTO and the World Customs Organization (WCO) at a virtual webinar on 29 March provides insights into how advanced technologies can help customs authorities facilitate the flow of goods across borders. “The role of advanced technologies in cross-border trade: A customs perspective” sheds light on the opportunities and challenges customs authorities face when deploying these technologies.
WTO members review UK-Turkey, UK-Singapore and China-Mauritius trade agreements
WTO members considered free trade agreements (FTAs) between the United Kingdom and Turkey, the United Kingdom and Singapore, and China and Mauritius at a meeting of the Committee on Regional Trade Agreements (CRTA) on 28 March. Members also reviewed updates on the implementation of the RTA Transparency Mechanism.