Created by the Geneva Trade Platform, this new tool in the toolbox of international traders provides information on Pluri-lateral discussions and WTO multi-party interim appeal arrangement (MPIA).
WTO Pluri-Lateral discussions and multi-party interim appeal arrangement (MPIA)
WTO Pluri-Lateral discussions are WTO initiatives where only a group of countries are participating. These discussions can cover any subject of trade and can ultimately result in creating new rules.
The WTO multi-party interim appeal arrangement (MPIA) is separate appeal process for trade disputes. It was set up in 2020 by 16 WTO members wanting to maintain the efficacy of the rules-based trading system and for members to continue to have access to an independent appeal process for dispute settlement.
There is a debate (some might say a controversy) about these discussions and the MPIS in the WTO. For some members, these parallel groups are not within the spirit of the WTO. The Geneval Trade platform is clearly indicating that they are not taking any position and only provide information.
Areas covered
- Electronic Commerce
- Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)
- Trade and Gender
- Investment Facilitation for Development
- Services Domestic Regulation
- Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA)
- Informal Dialogue on Plastics Pollution
- Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD)
- The Environmental Goods Agreement (EGA)
- Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA)
Publications
There is already an interesting range of documents published such minutes of meetings, reports and analysis.
Why this is important?
Because it gives us an insight about the direction of trade negotiations. It is particularly valuable in preparation of The WTO 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) that will take place from 30 November to 3 December 2021 in Geneva. It gives us visibility of the position on particular topics of these groups.
Access the platform: https://wtoplurilaterals.info
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