Local content measures scrutinized by WTO members in investment committee
Several WTO members raised concerns over local content requirements imposed by other members at a meeting of the Committee on Trade-Related Investment Measures (TRIMs) on 6 June 2019. Certain domestic legislation concerning fisheries, mobile and medical devices, and retail, automobile and pharmaceutical products may breach WTO rules according to some members.
The analytical pieces address four issues currently impacting LDCs: economic diversification; the WTO’s fisheries subsidies negotiations; global value chains and development; and implementation of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement. The collection is structured along the Global Review’s themes of economic diversity, inclusive trade and emerging issues.
The WTO-led Aid for Trade initiative encourages developing country governments and donors to recognize the role that trade can play in development. In particular, the initiative seeks to mobilize resources to address the trade-related constraints identified by developing and least-developed countries.
The EIF will host a session at the Global Review on 3 July on diversifying exports in fragile LDCs. The event will bring together LDC ministers, entrepreneurs and development partners to explore what needs to be done to ensure stability, boost economic diversification and reduce poverty.
About the Enhanced Integrated Framework
The Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF) is the only multilateral partnership dedicated exclusively to helping LDCs use trade as an engine for growth, sustainable development and poverty reduction. It is a unique global partnership between LDCs, donors and partner agencies, including the WTO, which work together to build trade capacity in LDCs.
About the Aid for Trade Global Review 2019
The Aid for Trade Global Review 2019 will take place from 3 to 5 July at the WTO under the theme “Supporting Economic Diversification and Empowerment.” The Global Review will discuss how Aid for Trade supports economic diversification and empowerment, with a focus on eliminating extreme poverty, particularly through the effective participation of micro, small and medium enterprises, women and youth.