Q1: What is a “negotiating round”?
A:One of the main functions of the GATT/WTO is to promote the economic development of its Members, based on a liberal multilateral trading system. In order to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade, the Members of the GATT/WTO have conducted several rounds of negotiations.
There were eight trade negotiating rounds under the GATT (General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade) over the period 1947-1994. The WTO was established after the completion of the Uruguay Round in 1994. In 2002 the WTO launched the Doha Round of negotiations, which has yet to be completed.
Q2: What is the principle of a “Single Undertaking”?A:The “Single Undertaking” is the basic principle applied to the decision-making process throughout the GATT/WTO negotiating rounds. Under this principle, the whole package may only be deemed accepted by the whole Membership after the conclusions reached on all the negotiating issues are accepted by all. This may also be taken to mean that nothing is agreed until everything is agreed.
Q3: What is the potential impact of the DDA (Doha Development Agenda) on Taiwan?
A:The conclusion of the DDA will further liberalize the international trading regime. This will enhance the export competitiveness of Taiwanese firms.
A successful outcome for the DDA will also help to alleviate the potential negative impact on Taiwan of preferential trade agreements signed bilaterally or multilaterally between other WTO Members or groups of Members.
