. /.WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONG/AG/NG/W/84
28 November 2000
(00-5102)
Committee on Agriculture
Special SessionOriginal:  English
FOURTH SPECIAL SESSION OF THE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE
15-17 NOVEMBER 2000
Statement by Swaziland
Special and Differential Treatment (G/AG/NG/W/55)Introduction
Swaziland is in the process of formulating its position on the three pillars of the Agreement
on Agriculture (namely, market access, domestic support and export competition as well as the cross-
cutting issues of non-trade concerns and special and differential treatment (S&D)).  At this point in
time, it was felt worthwhile to make some preliminary remarks on the paper submitted by ASEAN.
Importance of paper
The paper submitted by ASEAN is an important contribution on S&D for developing
countries.  It correctly points out that "the sheer underdevelopment of agriculture in developing
countries limits their ability to implement reforms at the same level and pace as that which developed
countries are able to undertake".  It goes on to point out that differential treatment must not end withjust longer timeframe for the implementation of commitments but must also look at the nature, depth
and substance of the commitment.  Swaziland would like to associate itself with these sentiments.
Export subsidies
Whilst we share the view that developing countries must continue to use the existing
flexibility with respect to export subsidies, we feel that their immediate elimination and unconditional
prohibition in the case of developed countries is too drastic and harsh.  We would prefer a gradual
reduction especially when such export subsidies have implications for the welfare of developing
countries either from the production or consumption side.
Domestic support
We have a problem with the suggestion that "developed countries must commit to a
substantial downpayment of aggregate and specific support".  Our problem stems from the suggestionthat even sensitive products must not be excluded.  There are many developing countries that are
exporting to the developed countries under preferential arrangements.  They are able to develop and
diversify their economies precisely as a result of the preferential arrangements that are inter-twined
with domestic support measures in the developed countries.  Accordingly, energies should be
focussed on a gradual and orderly reduction rather than substantial downpayment and prohibition.G/AG/NG/W/84
Page 2
Market access
We endorse the principle of full liberalization of trade in tropical products via tariff
reductions as well as the elimination of tariff peaks and tariff escalations.  We also endorse the
principles of non-discrimination and non-reciprocity in the context of the generalized system ofpreferences since they are consistent with the letter  and spirit of the "Enabling Clause".  However, we
wish to emphasize that those developing countries  who are using preferential trade arrangements to
develop their economies should not be stopped dead in their tracks by this proposal.  In this
connection, we fully endorse the comments made by Fiji and Mauritius in the context of
G/AG/NG/W/54 by the Cairns Group.
Conclusion
The paper by ASEAN helps tremendously to focus ideas on SDT.  Whilst its general thrust
can be supported, there are a few aspects which need careful consideration.  There should be no
developing countries made worse off in an attempt to improve the welfare of others.
__________