WT/TPR/OV/22  
29 November 2019  
(19-8208) Page: 1/229 
Trade Policy Review Body   
 
OVERVIEW OF DEVELOPM ENTS  
IN THE INTERNATIONAL  TRADING ENVIRONMENT  
ANNUAL REPORT BY THE  DIRECTOR -GENERAL1 
(Mid-October 201 8 to mid -October  2019) 
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
KEY FINDINGS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  4 
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 8 
1   INTRODUCTION  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  11 
2   RECENT ECONOMIC AND TRADE DEVELOPMEN TS ................................ ......................  13 
2.1   Overview  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 13 
2.2   Economic Developments  ................................ ................................ .............................. 14 
2.3   Merchandise Trade  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....15 
2.4   Trade in Commercial Services  ................................ ................................ ...................... 19 
2.5   Trade Forecast and Economic Outlook  ................................ ................................ ........... 21 
3   TRADE AND TRADE -RELATED POLICY ISSUE S ................................ ...........................  25 
3.1   Overview of Trends Identified during the Review Period  ................................ .................. 25 
3.2   Trade Remedies  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 35 
3.3   Sanita ry and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures  ................................ ................................ ...44 
3.4   Technical Barriers to Trade (TBTs)  ................................ ................................ ................ 51 
3.5   Trade Concerns Raised in Other WTO Bodies  ................................ ................................ ..60 
3.6   Policy Developments in Agriculture  ................................ ................................ ............... 69 
3.7   General Economic Support  ................................ ................................ ........................... 76 
3.8   Overview of Trade Policy Reviews  ................................ ................................ ................. 76 
3.9   Other Selected Trade Policy Issues  ................................ ................................ ............... 89 
4   POLICY DEVELOPME NTS IN TRADE IN SERV ICES  ................................ ......................  99 
5   POLICY DEVELOPME NTS IN TRADE AND INT ELLECTUAL PROPERTY  ........................  108  
6   TRANSPARENCY OF TRADE POLICIES  ................................ ................................ ...... 112 
 
 
1 This Report covers the period mid -October 2018 to mid -October 2019. It is presented pursuant to 
Paragraph G of the Trade Policy Review Mechanism mandate and aims to assist the Trade Policy Review Body 
to undertake its annual overview of developments in th e international trading environment that are having an 
impact on the multilateral trading system. The Report is issued under the sole responsibility of the 
Director -General. It has no legal effect on the rights and obligations of Members, nor does it have any legal 
implications with respect to the conformity of any measure noted in the Report with any WTO Agreements or 
any provisions thereof.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 2 - 
 
  ANNEX 1  MEASURES FACILITATIN G TRADE  ................................ ................................ . 132  
ANNEX 2  TRADE REMEDIES  ................................ ................................ ..........................  145  
ANNEX 3  OTHER TRADE -RELATED MEASURES  ................................ ..............................  167  
ANNEX 4  MEASURES AFFECTING T RADE IN SERVICES  ................................ .................  181  
APPENDIX 1 PARTICIPA TION  ................................ ................................ ......................  228  
 
 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 3 - 
 
  Box 1 About the WTO Trade Monitoring Report  
The Trade Monitoring Report is first and foremost a transparency exercise. It is intended to be purely factual 
and has no legal effect on the rights and obligations of WTO Members. It is without prejudice to Members' 
negotiating positions and has no legal implication with respect to the conformity of any measure noted in the 
Report with any WTO Agreement or any provision thereof.  
The Report aims to shed light on the latest trends in the implementation of a broad range of policy measures 
that facilitate as well as restrict the flow of trade and provide an update on the state of global trade. The 
Report neither seeks to pronounce itself on whether a trade measure is protectionist, nor does it question the 
right of Members to take certain trade measures. The R eports continue to evolve in terms of the coverage 
and analysis of trade -related issues and take into account discussions among WTO Members in the Trade 
Policy Review Body (TPRB).  
Regarding trade remedy actions, it has been highlighted in discussions among  WTO Members that some of 
these measures are taken to address what is perceived by some as a market distortion resulting from trade 
practices of entities in another trading partner. The WTO Anti -dumping and Subsidies Agreements permit 
WTO Members to impose  anti-dumping (AD) or countervailing (CVD) duties to offset what is perceived to be 
injurious dumping or subsidization of products exported from one Member to another. The Reports are not in 
a position to establish if, where or when such perceived distorti ve practices have taken place. The Reports 
have never categorized the use of trade remedies as protectionist, or WTO -inconsistent, or criticized 
governments for utilizing them. The main objective of monitoring these measures is to provide additional 
transp arency and to identify emerging trends in the application of trade policy measures.  
With respect to Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) measures covered in 
the Report, it is important to emphasize that they are neither cl assified nor counted as trade -restrictive or 
trade -facilitating, and the increasing trend with respect to the number of notifications of such measures is 
carefully linked to the transparency provisions of the Agreements only. The Reports have consistently 
underlined the basic premise that an increased number of SPS and TBT notifications does not automatically 
imply greater use of protectionist or unnecessarily trade -restrictive measures, but rather enhanced 
transparency regarding these measures. Finally, th e Reports clearly emphasize that the SPS and 
TBT Agreements specifically allow Members to take measures in the pursuit of a number of legitimate policy 
objectives.  
The WTO Secretariat strives to ensure that the Trade Monitoring Reports are factual and obj ective. Since 
2009, the Reports have sought to provide a nuanced perspective to developments in the area of international 
trade. For example,  the Reports  have consistently  emphasized  that although  the number  of specific  and often 
long-term restrictive  trade measures  remains  a source  of serious  concern,  other  key factors  may influence  
trade developments.  During discussions of the Trade Monitoring Reports at the TPRB, Members have also 
drawn attention to this point and to the fact that, with respect to both, vigilance remains imperative.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 4 - 
 
  KEY FINDINGS  
• This Report covers new trade and trade -related measures implemented by WTO Members 
between 16 October 2018 and 15 October 2019. During the review period, new trade 
restrictions and increasing trade tensions add ed to the uncertainty surrounding internationa l 
trade and the world economy.  
• World trade growth stalled during the review period and, on 1 October 2019, the WTO 
downgraded its forecast for world trade growth in 2019 to 1.2% ; down from the previous 
estimate of 2.6% from last April. Risks to the forecas t are predominantly on the downside and 
include a further ratcheting -up of trade -restrictive measures and a sharper slowing of GDP 
growth in one or more major economies.  
• WTO Members implemented 102 new trade -restrictive measures during the review period. 
The trade coverage for the  import -restrictive  measures was estimated at USD  746.9  billion. 
This is the highest recorded since October 2012 and represents an increase of 27% compared 
to that in the previous annual overview (USD 588.3 billion). The trade coverage of 
import -restrictive  measures  recorded  in the last two annual  overviews  has soared.   
• The stockpile of import restrictions implemented since 2009 , and still in force , suggests that 
7.5% of world imports are affected by import restrictions implemented since 2009. At  the end 
of 2018, USD 1.5 trillion out of a total USD 19.5 trillion of world imports were estimated to be 
affected by import restrictions put in place by WTO Members over the last decade. The  trade 
coverage of import -restrictive measures  implemented since 20 09 and still  in force by 
mid-October  2019 is estimated at USD 1.7 trillion, suggesting that the stockpile of import 
restrictions ha s continued to grow.  
• WTO Members also implemented 120 new measures aimed at facilitating trade. The trade 
coverage of the import -facilitating  measures introduced by WTO Members during the review 
period was estimated at USD 544.7 billion. This is the second highest trade coverage reported 
for this type of measures  since October 2012.  
• Overall, for the review period, the monthly average of initiations of trade remedy actions by 
WTO Members remained stable compared to 2018 . However, the second half of the review 
period saw this figure accelerate, in particular as a result of new anti -dumping investigation s. 
The trade coverage of trade remedy initiations during the review period was estimated at 
USD 46.2 billion, and that of terminations at USD  24.8 billion. Both figures are significantly 
higher  than the trade coverage recorded for these measures in the pre vious annual overview .  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 5 - 
 
  Trade coverage of new import -restrictive measures in each reporting period  
(not cumulative)  
(USD billion)  
 
Note:  These figures are estimates  and represent the trade coverage of the measures (i.e. annual imports 
of the products concerned from economies affected by the measures) introduced during each 
reporting period, and not the impact of the trade measures.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Trade coverag e of new import -facilitating measures in each reporting period  
(not cumulative)  
(USD billion)  
 
Note:  These figures are estimates  and represent the trade coverage of the measures (i.e. annual imports 
of the products concerned from economies affected by the measures) introduced during each 
reporting period , and not the impact of the trade measures. Liberalization associated with the 2015  
Expansion of the WTO's ITA is not included in the figures.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
201214228
101
79588747
0100200300400500600700800
mid-Oct12-
mid-Oct13mid-Oct13-
mid-Oct14mid-Oct14-
mid-Oct15mid-Oct15-
mid-Oct16mid-Oct16-
mid-Oct17mid-Oct17-
mid-Oct18mid-Oct18-
mid-Oct19Trade coverage of new import -restrictive measures in each reported period (not 
cumulative)
(USD billion)
2581,183
170249
169296545
02004006008001,0001,2001,400
mid-Oct12-
mid-Oct13mid-Oct13-
mid-Oct14mid-Oct14-
mid-Oct15mid-Oct15-
mid-Oct16mid-Oct16-
mid-Oct17mid-Oct17-
mid-Oct18mid-Oct18-
mid-Oct19Trade coverage of new import -facilitating measures in each reported period (not cumulative)
(USD billion)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 6 - 
 
  Cumulative trade coverage of import -restrictive measures in force since 2009  
(USD billion and %  of world merchandise imports ) 
 
Note:  The cumulative trade coverage estimated by the Secretariat is based on information available in the 
TMDB on import measures recorded since 2009 and considered to have a trade -restrictive effect. 
The estimates include import measures for which HS codes were available. The figur es do not 
include trade remedy measures. The import values were sourced from the UNSD Comtrade 
database.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
WTO trade remedies initiations and terminations  
(average per month)  
 
Note:  Values are rounded.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
731262343064074675985708141,463
0.60.81.31.72.22.53.7 3.64.77.5
012345678
02004006008001,0001,2001,4001,600
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Import restrictions in force (left axis) % of world imports (right axis)Cumulative trade coverage of import -restrictive measures in force since 2009
(USD billion)
Source:  WTO Secretariat.(%)
Note:  [See text in report].
21 28 
25 
23 29 
25 
23 25 
23 
17 
16 18 18 
14 
13 18 18 
16 
05101520253035
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 mid-O ct17 to 
mid-O ct18mid-O ct18 to 
mid-O ct19WTO Trade remedy intitiations and terminations 
 Initiations avg per month  Terminations avg per month
Source:   WTO Secretariat.Note:   Values are rounded.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 7 - 
 
  Trade measures, mid -October 2018 to mid -October 2019  
(by number)  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Trade coverage of trade measures, mid -October 2018 to mid -October 2019  
(USD billion)  
 
Note:  2018 figures. ITA expansion measures are not included.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
 
270 193 120 102 
Trade remedy initiations Trade remedy terminations
Measures facilitating trade Measures restricting trade685G20 measures, mid -October 2018 to mid -October 2019
46 25 545 747 
Trade remedy initiations Trade remedy terminations
Measures facilitating trade Measures restricting trade1,363Trade coverage of import measures, mid -October 2018 to mid -October 2019
(USD billion)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 8 - 
 
  EXECUTIVE SUMMARY  
This WTO Trade Monitoring Report covers  new trade and trade -related  measures  implemented  by 
WTO Members  between  16 October  2018 and 15 October  2019.2 During the review period, new trade 
restrictions and increasing trade tensions added  to the uncertainty surrounding international trade 
and the world economy.  
World trade growth stalled during the first half of 2019, with year -on-year growth in the volume  of 
merchandise trade dropping to 0.6% from 2.4% in the second half of 2018 as trade tensions 
continued to escalate. In response to the slower -than-expected pace of expansion,  on 
1 October  2019, the WTO Secretariat downgraded its forecasts for world trade growth in 2019 and 
2020 to 1.2% and 2.7%, respectively (down from the estimates from last April of 2.6% and 3.0%, 
respectively). Economic growth also slowed in major economies in the first half of the year, partly 
due to persistent trade tensions and partl y as a result of cyclical and structural factors. World real 
GDP at market exchange rates is projected to increase by 2.3% in both 2019 and 2020. If these 
estimates are realized, trade volumes will only grow half as fast as world GDP in 2019.  
The slowdown coincided with increasingly  negative forward -looking indicators for world trade and 
output, including export orders derived from purchasing managers' indices, and economic policy 
uncertainty based on the frequency of keywords in press accounts. Risks to th e forecast are 
predominantly on the downside and include a further ratcheting -up of trade -restrictive measures 
and a sharper slowing of GDP growth in one or more major economies.  
More specifically, this Report shows that  WTO Members implemented 102 new tra de-restrictive 
measures during the review period, including tariff increases, quantitative restrictions, stricter 
customs procedures, and imposition of import taxes and export duties . The main sectors targeted 
by the new import restrictions were mineral an d fuels oils (HS 27) 17.7%, machinery and mechanical 
appliances (HS 84) 13%, electrical machinery and parts thereof (HS 85) 11.7%, and precious metals 
(HS 71) 6%.   
The trade coverage for the new import -restrictive measures implemented by WTO Members was 
estimated at USD 746.9 billion. This is the highest recorded since October 2012 and represents an 
increase of 27% compared to the figure in the previous annual overview (USD 588.3 billion). The 
trade coverage of import -restrictive measures recorded in the last two annual overviews has soared.  
WTO Secretariat estimates of the stockpile of import restrictions implemented since 2009, and still 
in force , suggest that 7.5% of world imports are affected by import restrictions. At the end of 2018, 
USD 1.5 trillion out of a total USD 19.5 trillion of world imports were estimated to be affected by 
import restrictions put in place by WTO Members over the last d ecade. The trade coverage of 
import -restrictive measures  implemented since 2009 and  still in force by mid -October 2019 is 
estimated at USD 1.7 trillion , suggesting that the stockpile of import restrictions ha s continued to 
grow.  
WTO Members also implemente d 120 new measures aimed at facilitating trade , during the review 
period, including reducing or eliminating tariffs, export duties and import taxes.  The trade coverage  
of the import -facilitating measures implemented during the review period was estimated a t 
USD 544.7  billion  (excluding ITA -related measures) . This is the second highest trade coverage 
reported for this type of measures since October 2012.  The main sectors targeted by the new import -
facilitating measures were machinery and mechanical appliance s (HS 84) 13.4%, electrical machines 
and equipment (HS 85) 12.1%, copper and articles thereof (HS 74) 7.6%, and motor vehicles (HS 
87) 7.4%.  
In addition, liberalization associated with the 2015 expansion of the WTO's I nformation Technology 
Agreement (ITA)  continues to feature as an important contributor to trade facilitation.  The trade 
coverage of the import -facilitating measures implemented during the review period associated with 
the ITA Expansion Agreement amounted to USD 705 billion,  according to preliminary 
WTO Secretariat estimates.  
 
2 Unless otherwise indicated in the relevant Section.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 9 - 
 
  The monthly average of initiations of trade remedy actions by WTO  Members remained stable 
compared to 2018 . However, the second half of the review period saw this figure accelerate, in 
particular as a result of new anti -dumping investigations. Initiations of anti -dumping investigations 
continue to be the most frequent trade remedy action, accounting for around four fifths of all 
initiations during the review period. In the area of safeguards, the review period  saw a significant 
increase in activity. T rade remedy measures continue to be a very important trade policy tool for 
WTO Members , and account for about 68% of all trade measures captured in this Report . The main 
sectors targeted by trade remedy initiations  during the review period were on furniture (HS 94) 
24.7%, iron and steel (HS 72) 14%, articles of iron and steel (HS 73) 12.1%, and machinery and 
mechanical appliances (HS 84)  4.9% . The trade coverage of these  initiations was estimated at 
USD 46.2 billion , and that of terminations at USD 24.8 billion. Both figures are significantly higher  
than the trade coverage recorded for these measures in the previous annual overview . 
With respect to general economic support measures, the Secretariat received information from only 
eight WTO Members in response to the Director -General's request for information. As a result, the 
Secretariat has been unable to justify the inclusion of a se parate annex on these measures in the 
Report. From the limited information received from the WTO Members , and from the research 
undertaken by the Secretariat, the current review period confirms that Members continue to 
implement such measures as part of their overall trade policy. Discussions at the informal TPRB 
meeting in July 201 9 reinforced the need for further  guidance as to how the Secretariat should cover 
these  measures in the Trade Monitoring Reports . The selective commitment to transparency which 
has characterized general economic support measures in the context of the trade monitoring 
exercise should be of concern to all Members.  
A range of other subjects are also covered by this Report. WTO Members  have continued notifying 
their s anitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures and technical barriers to trade (TBT) measures, 
with most new notifications submitted by developing Members. The SPS and TBT notification 
obligations are meant to promote enhanced predictability and transparency regarding measures 
taken to address legitimate policy objectives. As in previous Reports, the majority of regular SPS 
notifications related to food safety, whereas the bulk of emergency SPS measures related to animal 
health. Most TBT measures indicated the protection of huma n health or safety as their main 
objective. In both the SPS and TBT Committees, WTO Members have dedicated considerable time in 
discussing specific trade concerns (STCs), suggesting an increasing use of the Committees by WTO 
Members as forums in which trad e concerns may be resolved non -litigiously. Since  1995,  43% of all 
STCs raised at the SPS Committee have been reported as resolved or partially resolved.  
The Report  provides  evidence  of the continuous  increase  of trade issues and concerns raised in a 
wider  range of WTO bodies during the review period. About 230 trade concerns were raised in some 
28 formal meetings of WTO bodies  other than the SPS and TBT Committees , showing an increase of 
8% per meeting compared to the previous annual report. A significant number of trade concerns 
were raised in successive meetings of the same Committee/Council, and often in multiple WTO 
bodies, confirming that many concerns involve what appear to be technically complex and persistent 
problems. WTO Members are in creasingly using multiple platforms within the WTO committee 
structure to address various aspects of their trade concerns and for exploring solutions to trade 
friction s non-litigiously. At the same time, the reasons behind the repetition and non -resolution  of 
the same trade concerns and issues in various WTO bodies may warrant further study.  
In the area of agriculture, WTO Members continued to make use of the Committee on Agriculture 
(CoA) as a forum to discuss agricultural policies and issues related to th e implementation of 
commitments under the Agreement on Agriculture (AoA). WTO Members continued asking questions 
on individual notifications and under Article 18.6 of the AoA, with the majority (70%) of those 
directed to domestic support notifications. The  average number of questions raised under 
Article  18.6 per meeting has been increasing since 2011 , reaching an average of 51 questions per 
meeting in 2019. Among the new issues raised during the review period, more than half related to 
Members' domestic su pport policies , and around  30% related to measures that restrict , or had the 
potential to restrict , trade of agricultural products.  
The level of the WTO dispute settlement system activity remained high during the review period, 
despite the impasse over the appointment of new Appellate Body members. The Report shows that, 
over the last 12  months, 29 panels were composed and commenced wo rk, and appeals were filed in 
8 disputes, resulting in 55 panel, arbitration and appeal proceedings ongoing during each month on 
average.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 10 - 
 
  The Report also illustrates that, with a few exceptions, the compliance with notification requirements 
of the various  WTO Agreements remains very uneven. Although there have been significant efforts 
by some delegations to bring their notifications further up to date, the general sense is that progress 
remains slow. The lack of compliance with notification obligations acr oss WTO bodies is problematic , 
as it undermines individual agreements and , more generally , the operation of the multilateral trading 
system. There are several reasons for this low compliance , and an important one relates to the lack 
of capacity of many WTO  Members to fulfil their notification obligations, despite the continued efforts 
by the WTO Secretariat and the Committees.  
Work on the implementation of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement advanced. Many Members 
concluded their domestic ratification p rocesses, raising the total number of acceptances to about 
89% of the entire WTO membership.  
Many  new measures  affecting  trade  in services  were introduced  by WTO Members  and Observers  
during  the review  period . While  most of these were trade -facilitating,  a significant  number  appear ed 
to be trade -restrictive,  in particular  measures  affecting  communication  and network -enabled  
services , as well as policies  pertaining  to the review  of foreign  investment  in certain  areas  considered  
strategic  or linked to national  security.   
The Report also draws attention to developments in Trade -Related Aspects of Intellectual Property 
Rights (TRIPS), including the strengthening link between intellectual property (IP) and trade, and 
the development and diversifica tion of national policies to streamline IP into the economy. 
WTO Members  continued  to develop and diversify their own national strategies to streamline IP into 
the economy and to modernize and fine -tune their IP legislation and administration.   
Following M C11, work continued throughout 2019 to advance negotiations, particularly on fisheries 
subsidies, building on the decision taken by Members in Buenos Aires. Groups of Members also 
continued to pursue their discussions on other issues, including electronic commerce, investment 
facilitation, women's economic empowerment, domestic regulation in services, and micro, small and 
medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs).  
 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 11 - 
 
  1  INTRODUCTION  
1.1.  This Report is submitted to the Trade Policy Review Body (TPRB) pursuant to Paragraph  G of 
the Trade Policy Review Mechanism mandate in Annex 3 to the WTO Agreement . This provides for 
an annual Report by the Director -General to assist the TPRB in undertaking its annual overview of 
developments in the international trad ing environment that are having an impact on the multilateral 
trading system. It builds on the Director -General's Report to the TPRB on trade -related 
developments circulated to Members on 8 July 201 9.3  
1.2.  This Report  covers the period from 16 October 201 8 to 15 October 201 9, unless otherwise 
indicated .4 The Report is issued under the sole responsibility of the  Director -General  and is intended 
to be purely factual . It has no legal effect on the rights and obligations of Members, nor does it have 
any legal impl ication with respect to the conformity of any measure noted in the Report  with any 
WTO Agreement or any provision thereof. Specifically, the Report  does not question the explicit right 
of Members to resort to trade -remedy measures  and is without prejudice to Members' negotiating 
positions . 
1.3.  At the Eighth WTO Ministerial Conference in December 2011, Ministers recognized the regular 
work undertaken by the TPRB through  the monitoring exercise of trade and trade -related measures, 
took note of the work initially done in the context of the global financial and economic crisis and 
directed it to be continued and strengthened. They invited the Director -General to continue 
presenting his Trade Monitoring Reports on a regular basis and asked the TPRB to consider these 
Reports in addition to the meeting dedicated to undertaking  the annual overview of developments 
in the international trading environment. Ministers committed to duly comply with the existing 
transparency obligations and reporting requirements needed for th e preparation of these Reports, 
and to continue to support and cooperate with the WTO Secretariat in a constructive fashion.5  
1.4.  Section 2 of the Report  provides a comprehensive  overview of recent economic and trade 
developments. Section 3 presents an accoun t of selected trade and trade -related policy trends. 
Overviews of policy developments in trade in services and trade -related aspects of intellectual 
property rights are included in Sections 4 and 5, respectively. Section 6 covers the transparency of 
trade policies across a wide range of WTO bodies. The Report's Annexes list specific trade policy 
measures of individual WTO Members and Observers implemented during the period under review 
in four  categories: trade -facilitating measures (Annex  1), trade -remedy actions (Annex 2), other 
trade and trade -related measures (Annex 3), and services measures (Annex 4). The country -specific 
measures listed in the four Annexes are new measures implemented by Members and Observers  
during the review period.6 Measures impleme nted outside th is period are not included in the 
Annexes. The compilation of all measures that have been recorded in Annexes  1-3 by the Trade 
Monitoring Reports since October  2008 is available in the Trade Monitoring Database.7 Specific 
developments related to SPS measures and TBT are covered separately in Section  3.  
1.5.  Information on the measures included in this Report has been collected from inputs submitted 
by Members and Observers, as well as from other official and public sources .8 Replies to the 
Director -General's initial request for information on measures taken during the period under review 
and replies to the requests for verification were received from 79 Members9 (see Box below), which 
represents 4 8% of the membership, and covers  aroun d 92% of world imports.10 Three Observers 
also replied to the request for information.  Overall, 99 Members were  covered in the Secretariat's 
request s for verification of measures. Participation in the verification process was uneven, and in 
 
3 WTO document WT/TPR/OV/W/13, 8 July 2019.  
4 In addition to t he trade policy measures implemented during the period under review and recorded by 
this Report, other measures which impact trade flows may have been taken by WTO Members and Observers.  
5 WTO document WT/L/848, 19 December 2011.  
6 The inclusion of any mea sure in this Report or in  its Annexes implies no judgement by 
the WTO Secretariat on whether a measure, or its intent, is protectionist in nature. Moreover, nothing in this 
Report implies any judgement, either direct or indirect, on the consistency of any measure with the provisions 
of any WTO Agreement.  
7 Viewed at: http://tmdb.wto.org . The database does not include SPS and TBT measures, general 
economic support measures, services measures or TRIPS -related measures.  
8 Appendix 1 contains a full overview of the participation of Members and Observers in the preparation 
of this Report.  
9 The European Union and its member States counted separately.  
10 This figure includes intra -EU trade.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 12 - 
 
  many cases  the Secretariat received only partial responses and often after the indicated deadline.11 
Where it has not been possible to confirm the information, this is noted in the Annexes.  
1.6.  The International Monetary Fund (IMF) contributed a topical box to this Report on an 
assessment framework on countries' external balances. The International Trade Cen tre (ITC) 
provided a box on international standards and access to global markets.  
Participation in the preparation of this Report  
Afghanistan  
Albania  
Angola  
Argentina  
Australia  
Azerbaijan* 
Bangladesh  
Brazil  
Canada  
Chile 
China  
Colombia  
Costa Rica  
Cuba 
Dominican Republic  
Egypt  
El Salvador  
European Union  Guyana  
Hong Kong, China  
India 
Indonesia  
Iraq* 
Japan  
Jordan  
Kazakhstan  
Kenya  
Korea, Republic of  
Macao, China  
Mauritius  
Mexico  
Montenegro  
Morocco  
Nepal  
New Zealand  
Norway  Panama  
Philippines  
Russian Federation  
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines  
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
Serbia* 
Seychelles  
Singapore  
South Africa  
Sri Lanka  
Switzerland  
Chinese Taipei  
Tajikistan  
Thailand  
Turkey  
Ukraine  
United States of America  
Viet Nam  
* Observer . 
WTO Members and Observers participating in the WTO trade monitoring exercise  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
 
 
11 The information contained in the Annexes reflects the overall participation in the exercise and 
responses to the verification request and should therefore not be considered exhaustive.  
WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 13 - 
 
  2  RECENT ECONOMIC AND TRADE DEVELOPMENTS  
2.1  Overview  
2.1.  World trade growth stalled during the review period, as elevated trade tensions contin ued to 
weigh on the global economy. Year -on-year growth in the volume of world merchandise trade fell to 
0.6% in the first half of 2019, down from 2.4% in the second half of 2018. The slowdown was 
broad -based, affecting countries at all levels of developme nt and in all geographic regions to varying 
degrees. Leading economic indicators suggest that weak trade growth is likely to persist into the 
second half of 2019.  
2.2.  Economic growth also slowed in major economies in the first half of 2019, partly due to 
persistent trade tensions and partly as a result of  cyclical  and structural factors , including the 
changing  stance of monetary policy in developed countries and  continued Brexit -related uncertainty 
in Europe. Overall, r isks to the economic outlook  remain  firmly tilted to  the downside . 
2.3.  In contrast to the weak but still positive growth of merchandise trade in volume terms, world 
merchandise exports in value (i.e. USD) terms declined in the first half of 2019, falling 2.8% 
year-on-year after rising 6.4% in the second half of 2018. The decline is partly explained by falling 
commodity prices and the appreciation of the US dollar, both of which tend to reduce the measured 
value of traded goods priced in US dollars.  
2.4.  Commercial s ervices trade in value terms also grew more slowly in the first half of 2019 but 
avoided a decline. Year -on-year growth in the US dollar value of commercial services exports fell 
from 3.9% on average in the second half of 2018 to 0.8% in the first half of 201 9. The slowdown 
was stronger in Q1, when growth dropped to 0.1% before picking up to 1.5% in Q2. The stronger 
slowdown in Q1 was partly due to weakness in transport and travel services, exports of which were 
down 1.4% and 0.4%, respectively.  
2.5.  There are no quarterly statistics for gross domestic product (GDP) at the world level, but OECD 
estimates of G20 economies provide a reasonable approximation. These countries saw year -on-year 
growth in real GDP at purchasing power parity slow from an average rate of 3. 4% in the second half 
of 2018 to 3.0% in the first half of 2019. As with trade, the slowdown touched all major economies, 
including the European Union, the United States, Japan, and China, to varying degrees. The 
slowdown in trade was more pronounced than the reduction in economic activity. This may be partly 
explained by rising trade policy uncertainty, as well as the fact that slowing growth in Europe tends 
to have a greater impact on world trade than on world output, due to the region's larger share in 
the former (37% of merchandise imports) than in the latter (23% of world GDP).  
2.6.  In response to worsening economic data, central banks of major economies continued to ease 
monetary policy in the first half of 2019, while countries in a position to do so adop ted more 
expansionary fiscal policies. Stimulus measures have yet to translate into strong economic growth 
in developed economies, but the pace of expansion has picked up slightly in some developing 
economies. In the United States, GDP growth slowed from a n annualized quarterly rate of 3.1% in 
Q1 to 2.0% in Q2. Growth in the European Union also eased from 2.0% in Q1 to 0.7% in Q2. In 
contrast, China's rate of economic growth picked up slightly to around 6.6% in Q2, after falling to 
5.7% in Q1. Growth in Bra zil and South Africa was also slightly stronger in Q2 than in Q1.  
2.7.  The worse -than-expected performance of trade in the first half of 2019 prompted WTO 
economists to issue, on 1 October 2019, a downward revision to their trade forecasts for 2019 and 
2020. Th e Secretariat now expects the volume of world merchandise trade to increase by 1.2% in 
2019, with GDP growth of 2.3% at market exchange rates . This would represent the slowest rate of 
trade expansion since the financial crisis of 2008 -09. In 2020, trade vo lume growth should rebound 
to 2.7%, with GDP growth holding steady at 2.3% , but such a recovery would  depend on an easing 
of trade tensions.  
2.8.  Some of the risk factors highlighted in the previous Trade Monitoring Report materialized during 
the review period,  including escalating trade tensions and unresolved Brexit negotiations. These will 
continue to weigh negatively on the trade outlook until they are resolved. A sharper slowdown in 
economic growth in one or more economies could also lead to more negative o utcomes for trade. WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 14 - 
 
  On a more positive note, unemployment remains low in developed countries, and consumer spending 
has been resilient.  
2.9.  On 11 October 2019, the United States and China announced a limited trade deal that would 
see the United States refrain from further raising tariffs on Chinese goods and China purchase more 
US agricultural products. This truce could signal the beginning of a relaxation of trade tensions. If 
so, it would provide some limited upside potential to the WTO's trade forecast. Howe ver, as long as 
a durable solution to the trade conflict remains out of reach, world trade growth is unlikely to regain 
its earlier dynamism.  
2.2  Economic Developments  
2.10.   Several factors contributed to the slower pace of global economic growth in the first half o f 
2019. Manufacturing activity declined in leading economies, particularly in the automobile sector 
where producers faced subdued consumer demand and adjustment costs associated with stricter 
emissions standards. Uncertainty over trade and economic policy discouraged and curbed 
investment spending and reduced imports of intermediate goods used in the manufacture of goods 
for export. Lower primary commodity prices also lowered revenues of natural resource exporters.  
Chart 2.1 Exchange rate indices for selected economies, January 2014 -August 2019a 
Index, January 2014=100  
 
a Nominal effective exchange rate indices against a broad basket of currencies.  
Source:  Bank for International Settlements (BIS).  
2.11.   Commodity pr ices and exchange rates strongly influence nominal trade statistics, which are 
usually priced in U S dollars . Recent exchange rate developments are illustrated in Chart 2.1,  which 
shows indices of nominal effective exchange rate s for selected economies through A ugust 2019. The 
US dollar was up 4.5% for the year -to-date through August compared to a broad basket of 
currencies. However, the monthly rate of appreciation slowed during the year, as the Federal Reserve 
halted monetary ti ghtening and cut interest rates for the first time since 2008. The Japanese yen 
appreciated strongly between April and August, as rising global economic uncertainty bid up the 
price of safe -haven assets. The yen was up 4.2% for the year -to-date and 6.9% ye ar-on-year in 
August. C urrencies  of other major economies were down year -on-year in August, including the  
Chinese yuan  (-1.2%), the euro (-1.3%), the pound Sterling  (-3.1%), the Turkish lira  (-34.1%) and 
the Brazilian real  (-38.1%). 
2.12.   Chart 2.2  shows recent developments in primary commodity prices. Fuel prices were down 
23% year -on-year in September, with substantial volatility over the course of the year. The price of 
fuel tumbled 25% between October and December 2018, then increased by 14% through April 201 9, 
8090100110120130
United States Japan Euro area China United KingdomExchange rate indices for selected economies, January 2014 -August 2019a
Index, January 2014=100
Source:  Bank for International Settlements (BIS).a   Nominal effective exchange rate indices against a broad basket of currencies.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 15 - 
 
  before dropping another 16% through September  2019. Fluctuations partly reflected changing 
economic expectations, as trade tensions rose and fell throughout the year. Other commodities 
recorded smaller year -on-year price declines through August, includi ng food ( -1.7%), agricultural 
raw materials ( -4.4%) and metals ( -0.2%).  
Chart 2.2 Prices of primary commodities, January 2014 -September 2019  
Indices, January 2014=100  
 
Source:  World Bank Commodity Price Data.  
2.3  Merchandise Trade  
2.13.   Chart 2.3  shows growth in the US dollar value of world merchandise trade (red lines), as well 
as contributions to trade growth from developed and developing economies (stacked bars). World 
exports fell in the first half of 2019, with declines of 2.4% in the first q uarter and 3.2% in the second. 
The declines as measured by imports were 2.6% in Q1 and 2.9% in Q2, with discrepancies due to 
differences in recording trade transactions. The contraction was broad -based, affecting developed 
and developing economies alike. D eveloped countries were responsible for slightly more than half of 
the decline in Q2, on both the export side (1.8 percentage points out of 3.2, or 56%) and the import 
side (1.6 percentage points out of 2.9, or 55%).  
2.14.   Chart 2.4  illustrates quarterly mercha ndise trade volumes by selected exporters and 
importers.  The data show mixed results for major traders in the first half of the year . Imports of 
Developing Asia  (which includes China)  registered a decline of 0.9%  in Q1, followed by an increase 
of 1.8% in Q 2. The United States recorded consecutive quarters of falling imports, -1.7% in Q1 and 
-0.4% in Q2. Extra -EU imports rose 0.5% in the first quarter before declining by 1.4% in the second.  
Export volume growth was flat for most countries, except for Brazil,  which recorded relatively steep 
declines of 2.9% in Q1 and 2.8% in Q2.  
2.15.   Monthly merchandise trade statistics in current US dollar terms are more timely than quarterly 
statistics in volume terms. These are shown in Chart 2.5 for  selected economies through July, 
depending on data availability. Trade flows in the United States were little changed in the latest 
month compared to the same month in 2018 ( -1% for exports, +1% for imports). The same was 
true for EU -extra (+1% for both exports and imports) and Japa n (+1% for exports, +2% for 
imports). On the other hand, developing economies in Asia recorded strong fluctuations, including 
imports of China ( -5%) and exports of the Republic of Korea ( -12%). A major exception was 
Viet Nam, which saw strong year -on-year growth in both exports and imports through July 
(+11%  and +8%, respectively). These figures should be interpreted with caution, as they may be 
strongly influenced by prices and exchange rates.  
20406080100120
Food Agricultural raw materials Metals FuelsPrices of primary commodities, January 2014 -September 2019
Indices, January 2014=100
Source:  World Bank Commodity Price Data.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 16 - 
 
  Chart 2.3 Contri butions to year -on-year growth in world merchandise exports and 
imports, 2015Q1 -2019Q2  
(Percentage change in US D values)  
 
a Includes significant re -exports. Also includes the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).  
Note:  Due to scarce data availability, Africa and Middle East are under -represented in world totals.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat estimates, based on data compiled from IMF International Financial Statistics; 
Eurostat Comext Database; Global Trade Atlas; and national statistics.  
-6.7 -6.3 -6.0 -5.3-2.5-0.1 -0.2 1.24.6
2.55.36.78.26.8
3.1
0.9 -1.7 -1.8
-5.7 -6.9-8.6-6.9-6.4-3.5-1.71.37.0
5.05.86.26.3
6.4
6.0
2.9
-0.7-1.4
-12.3-13.2
-14.6-12.2-8.9-3.6-1.92.511.6
7.511.013.014.5
13.2
9.1
3.8
-2.4-3.2
-20-15-10-505101520
2015Q1
2015Q2
2015Q3
2015Q4
2016Q1
2016Q2
2016Q3
2016Q4
2017Q1
2017Q2
2017Q3
2017Q4
2018Q1
2018Q2
2018Q3
2018Q4
2019Q1
2019Q2Contributions to year -on-year growth in world merchandise exports and imports, 2015Q1 -
2019Q2
Source:(Percentage change in US$ values)
Notea Includes significant re -exports. Also includes the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
Due to scarce data availability, Africa and Middle East are under -represented in world totals.
WTO Secretariat estimates, based on data compiled from IMF International Financial Statistics; Eurostat 
Comext Database; Global Trade Atlas; and national statistics.Developed economies Developing economiesa
World, year -on-year percentage change-6.7-6.8-6.6-5.1-2.6-0.3 -0.1
0.54.33.15.47.98.8
6.8
3.82.2
-1.3 -1.6
-5.4 -5.7 -6.7-6.6-5.5-2.9 -1.91.26.8
4.85.55.76.0
6.0
5.7
2.1
-1.3 -1.2
-12.1-12.5-13.4-11.7-8.1-3.2-2.01.711.0
7.910.913.614.7
12.8
9.5
4.3
-2.6-2.9
-20-15-10-505101520
2015Q1
2015Q2
2015Q3
2015Q4
2016Q1
2016Q2
2016Q3
2016Q4
2017Q1
2017Q2
2017Q3
2017Q4
2018Q1
2018Q2
2018Q3
2018Q4
2019Q1
2019Q2Exports
ImportsWT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 17 - 
 
  Chart 2.4 Volume of exports and imports of selected economies, 2012Q1 -2019Q2  
(Seasonally -adjusted volume indices, 2012Q1=100)  
 
Note:  Data for the United States, Japan and the EU were obtained from national statisti cal sources while 
figures for Brazil and Developing Asia are seasonally adjusted Secretariat estimates.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat / UNCTAD.  
708090100110120130140150
2012Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2013Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2014Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2015Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2016Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2017Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2018Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2019Q1
Q2Volume of exports and imports of selected economies, 2012Q1 -2019Q2
708090100110120130140150
2012Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2013Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2014Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2015Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2016Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2017Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2018Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2019Q1
Q2(Seasonally adjusted volume indices, 2012Q1 = 100)
Exports
Imports
Source: WTO Secretariat / UNCTAD.JapanEU-extra trade EU-intra trade United States
Developing Asia
Note: Data for the United States, Japan and the EU were obtained from national statistical sources while figures 
for Brazil and Developing Asia are seasonally adjusted Secretariat estimates.BrazilWT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 18 - 
 
  Chart 2.5 Merchandise exports and imports of selected economies, Januar y 2014 -
July 2019  
(USD billion)  
 
Merchandise exports and imports of selected economies, January 2014 -March 2019
United States Japan(USD billion)
European Union (extra -trade) China
Canada Turkey050100150200250300
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-190102030405060708090
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19
050100150200250
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19050100150200250
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19
0102030405060
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19051015202530
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19Australia Republic of Korea
051015202530354045
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-190510152025
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19
05101520
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19Indonesia
0510152025
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19BrazilWT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 19 - 
 
   
Source:  IMF International Financial Statistics, Global Trade Information Services, the Global Trade Atlas 
database, and national statistics.  
2.4  Trade in Commercial Services  
2.16.   Recent trends in services trade are shown in  Chart 2.6  for selected countries from  2018Q2 to 
2019Q2. Year-on-year growth in the US dollar value of commercial services imports was down in 
most countries in Q2. A major exception was imports of the United States, where year -on-year 
growth accelerated t o 5.7% in the latest period, from 4.0% in the previous quarter. In contrast, 
extra-EU imports declined by 3% in Q2, after increasing by 4.3% in Q1. Services imports of China 
also declined, with year -on-year growth of -7.1% in Q2, down from +8.5% in Q1. Imp ort growth 
remained positive in India in Q2 at 4.1%, but was down sharply from 11.9% in Q1.  
Russian Federation India
MalaysiaViet Nam
Mexico Argentina
Source:  IMF International Financial Statistics, Global Trade Information Services, the Global Trade 
Atlas database, and national statistics.Imports ExportsWTO_ECO.5 (continued)
01020304050
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-1905101520253035404550
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19
024681012
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19South Africa
01020304050
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19Singapore
0510152025
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-190510152025
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19
01020304050
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19012345678
Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 20 - 
 
  2.17.   Services exports of the United States slowed to a crawl in 2019, with nearly zero growth in 
the first half. Meanwhile, extra -EU exports declined by 3.4% in Q2 and those of Brazil fell 5.3%. The 
nominal effective exchange rate of the US dollar rose only slightly between Q1 and Q2 (0.8%), which 
suggests that these changes mostly represent real rather than nominal fluctuations.  
Chart 2.6 Commercial services exports and imports of selected economies, 
2018Q2 -2019Q2  
(Year -on-year % change in current USD values)  
 
Source:  WTO and UNCTAD Secretariats.  
-15-10-5051015202530
United States European Union
(extra)Japan China India Brazil Russian
FederationCommercial services exports and imports of selected economies, 2018Q2 -2019Q2
-15-10-5051015202530
United States European Union
(extra)Japan China India Brazil Russian
Federation(Year -on-year % change in current US$ values)
Exports
Imports
Source: WTO and UNCTAD Secretariats.2019Q1 2018Q2 2018Q3 2018Q4 2019Q2WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 21 - 
 
  2.5  Trade Forecast and Economic Outlook  
2.18.   In October, the Secretariat issued a sharp  downward revision to its trade forecasts for 2019 
and 2020. The volume of world merchandise trade is now expected to increase by 1.2% in 2019, 
substantially less than the previous estimate of 2.6% from last April. The projected increase for 
2020 has also been revised slightly downwards, to 2.7% from 3.0% previously. Exports of developed 
countries are expected to slow more than those of developing economies in 2019, while the opposite 
should be the case on the import side (Table 2.1).  
2.19.   Due to the inherent u ncertainty of trade forecasts during an ongoing trade war, the estimate 
for 2019 is placed within a range of likely values, from 0.5% to 1.6%. The estimate for 2020 should 
fall within a wider range, from 1.7% and 3.7%. Several factors will play a role in t hese estimates, 
including the increase or decrease of trade tensions, cyclical and structural developments, the 
direction of monetary policies, and Brexit -related uncertainty. In addition, economic uncertainty will 
continue to impact business confidence ne gatively, with a knock -on effect on investment.  
2.20.   Monthly economic indicators provide some worrying clues about the near -term trajectory of 
world trade. An index of new export orders, compiled by IHS -Market and JPMorgan as part of their 
Global Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI), declined from its recent peak of 54.0 in 
January 2018 to 47.4 in August 2019, before rebounding slightly to 48.0 in September. Values below 
50 signal contraction, which suggests that trade growth is likely to remain weak i nto the second half 
of 2019.  
2.21.   A separate index of economic uncertainty based on the frequency of certain keywords in press 
accounts reached 350.8 in August, the highest level ever recorded, before receding to 323.2 in 
September. This is still extremely high  compared to the baseline value of 100 , which  denotes  the 
"average" level of uncertainty  between 1997 and 2015. To the extent that economic uncertainty 
deters investment, it can have a disproportionately negative effect on trade, since capital goods that 
make up investments tend to have high import content.  
2.22.   Air freight is another indicator that tends to be leading with respect to world trade. An index 
of International Freight Tonne Kilometres (FTKs) from the International Air Transport Association 
(IATA) was down 4.6% year -on-year in August, which suggests continued weakness in glo bal import 
demand. These indicators and others are included in the WTO's new Trade Barometers, which 
continue to point to weak global trade growth.  
Table 2.1 Merchandise trade volume and real GDP growth, 2015 -20 
(Annual % change)   
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019a 2020a 
Volume of world merchandise tradeb 2.3 1.7 4.6 3.0 1.2 2.7 
Exports        
Developed economies  2.4 1.0 3.6 2.1 0.4 2.2 
Developing economiesc 1.7 2.3 5.6 3.5 2.1 3.4 
North America  1.1 0.3 4.2 4.3 1.5 3.6 
South and Central America and the Caribbean  -0.4 0.7 3.0 0.6 1.3 0.7 
Europe  2.9 1.2 3.7 1.6 0.6 1.7 
Asia 1.4 2.3 6.8 3.8 1.8 3.8 
Other regionsd 3.2 2.9 1.6 2.7 0.9 2.5 
Imports        
Developed economies  4.2 2.0 3.3 2.5 1.6 1.2 
Developing economiesc 0.6 1.3 6.8 4.1 1.1 4.3 
North America  5.4 0.1 4.0 5.0 2.9 2.1 
South and Central America and the Caribbean  -8.4 -8.8 4.6 5.2 -0.7 4.5 
Europe  3.5 3.1 2.9 1.1 0.4 0.9 
Asia 3.9 3.6 8.3 5.0 1.3 3.9 
Other regionsd -4.3 -1.9 2.5 0.5 2.6 4.3 
Real GDP at market exchange rates  2.8 2.4 3.0 2.8 2.3 2.3 
Developed economies  2.3 1.6 2.3 2.2 1.7 1.4 
Developing economiesc 3.7 3.8 4.3 4.1 3.4 3.8 
North America  2.7 1.6 2.3 2.7 2.2 1.9 
South and Central America and the Caribbean  -0.8 -2.0 0.7 0.6 0.1 2.4 
Europe  2.4 2.0 2.7 2.0 1.3 1.2 
Asia 4.3 4.2 4.6 4.2 3.9 3.5 
Other regionsd 1.2 2.4 2.0 2.2 1.7 2.4 
a Figures for 201 9 and 20 20 are projections.  
b Average of exports and imports.  
c Includes the CIS, including associate and former member States.  
d Other regions comprise Africa, Middle East and the CIS. 
Source:  WTO Secretariat for trade, consensus estimates for GDP.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 22 - 
 
  Box 2.1 The WTO Goods and Services Trade Barometers  
The WTO recently revamped its World Trade Outlook Indicator (WTOI) and supplemented it with a new 
companion index to track world services trade. Like the WTOI, the Goods Trade Barometer is a composite 
leading in dicator that combines information on several variables that are leading with respect to world 
merchandise trade into a single composite index. The Services Trade Barometer adopts a similar approach, 
combining information on variables related to services, t o identify turning points and changing patterns in 
world services trade. Both indices are designed to provide "real time" information on the trajectory of world 
trade, relative to recent trends. They are not intended as a short -term forecast, although they  do provide 
indications of the direction of trade in the near future. Readings of 100 indicate growth in line with 
medium -term trends; readings greater than 100 suggest above -trend growth; and values below 100 indicate 
the opposite.  
The Goods Trade Baromet er (released on 15 August 2019) includes the following component indices:  
• an index of New Export Orders derived from Purchasing Managers' Indices (PMIs);  
• automobile production and sales in major economies;  
• container throughput of major ports in 20 fo od equivalent units (TEU);  
• an Air Freight index from IATA;  
• customs data on trade in semiconductors, in physical units; and  
• customs data on agricultural raw materials trade, in physical units.  
The Services Trade Barometer (released on 16 September 20 19) includes the following components:  
• a global services activity index derived from PMIs;  
• an index of global financial transaction messages from SWIFT;  
• data on ICT services from national sources;  
• a passenger air travel index from IATA;  
• container  throughput of international ports in 20 food equivalent units (TEU); and  
• an index of construction activity, based on national statistics of major economies.  
Both Barometers show world trade below trend at the moment, although the Goods Trade Barometer reading 
of 95.7 is more negative than the Services Trade Barometer's preliminary value of 98.4. Despite the overall 
loss of trade momentum since the start of 2019, services trade has generally held up better than goods trade, 
since the latter is more direc tly affected by recent trade tensions. These results foreshadowed the recent 
downgrade to the WTO's trade forecast, issued on 1 October 2019, which revised the Secretariat's estimate 
for world merchandise trade volume growth in 2019 down to 1.2% from 2.6% previously. Like its predecessor, 
the Goods Trade Barometer will be issued on a quarterly basis, while the Services Trade Barometer will be 
updated two times a year.  
   
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
  
WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 23 - 
 
  2.23.   The belo w Box 2.2 provides  an assessment framework on countries' external balances.  
Box 2.2 An External Balance Assessment Framework  
Countries may run current account surpluses and deficits, depending on their fundamentals and cyclical 
circumstances. The key challenge is to distinguish between imbalances that are desirable from an individual 
country and global perspective, and imbalances that are excessivea and can point to macroeconomic and 
financial stress. Hence, a proper und erstanding of countries' external positions – current accounts, stock 
positions, and currencies – is required to highlight policymakers' shared responsibility to tackle external 
imbalances before they become too risky, with global repercussions that could affect both creditors and 
debtors alike.  
The assessment of external positions and exchange rates is a key mandate of the IMF. External sector 
assessments rely on the External Balance Assessment (EBA) framework, launched in 2012 with new current 
account and  real effective exchange rate econometric models.b EBA models cannot capture all relevant country 
characteristics and potential policy distortions. Therefore, the IMF's external sector assessments are 
complemented by country -specific knowledge and insights . Internal review processes support the application 
of country -specific judgement in an objective, rigorous and even -handed manner. The annual External Sector 
Report (ESR)c discusses the risks from the configuration of global excess imbalances for the 30 l argest 
systemic economies, as well as policies to address them in a manner that is supportive of global growth. The 
EBA-Lite methodology provides an expanded external assessment framework for lower -income economies and 
those not covered by the EBA.  
The IM F's 2019 External Sector Report, discussed by the IMF's Executive Board in July, studies the evolution 
of external positions since the global financial crisis, and documents that overall current account surpluses 
and deficits fell sharply from a historical  peak of about 6% of global GDP in 2007 to about 3.5% in 2013. Since 
then, global current account imbalances declined at a slower pace, to 3% of world GDP in 2018, while 
remaining high by historical standards. Following the trend of recent years, these ext ernal imbalances 
continued to rotate towards advanced economies and away from emerging economies (see Figure A).  Despite 
the narrowing of current account – or flow – imbalances, global stock imbalances – defined as the sum of 
countries' net creditor and debtor positions – continued to increase because, for the most part, creditor 
countries continued to run surpluses, while debtor countries continued to run deficits. At 40% of world GDP, 
stock imbalances h ave reached a historical peak and are about four times larger than in the early 1990s.  
In the 2019 External Sector Report , about 35% -45% of overall current account surpluses and deficits were 
deemed excessive  in 2018, marginally down from 40% -50% in 2017. Excessive surpluses remained 
concentrated in northern Europe and advanced Asia (Germany, the Republic of Korea, the Netherlands and 
Singapore), while excessive deficits remained concentrated in north America (Canada and the United States), 
the United Kingd om, and some emerging market economies (Argentina, and Indonesia). China's external 
position was assessed to be in line with fundamentals, but a lasting external rebalancing will need a continued 
recalibration of macroeconomic and structural policies.  
Figure A: Global current account imbalances and net investment positions  
 
Note:  AEs = advanced economies; EMDEs = emerging market and developing economies.  
Risks from the current configuration of external imbalances are generally contained, at least in the n ear term, 
as current account deficits, and debtor positions are largely concentrated in advanced economies that issue 
reserve currencies. However, an intensification of trade tensions or a disorderly Brexit outcome could further 
increase global risk aversi on and affect economies that are highly dependent on foreign demand and external 
financing. Over the medium term, further increases in the external debt of key countries could trigger costly 
WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 24 - 
 
  disruptive adjustments that could spill over to the rest of the w orld, as was the case during the global financial 
crisis.  
Well-calibrated macroeconomic and structural policies are needed to achieve domestic and external objectives. 
Countries with excess deficits should adopt growth -friendly fiscal consolidation, while those with excess 
surpluses should use available fiscal space to boost public infrastructure investment and potential growth. 
Carefully tailored and sequenced structural policies could play a more prominent role in addressing external 
imbalances, while boo sting domestic potential growth. Reforms that encourage investment and discourage 
excessive saving – through the removal of entry barriers and stronger social safety nets, respectively – would 
benefit excess surplus countries; whereas reforms that improve productivity and workers' skill base could 
boost exports in countries with excess deficits.  
Protectionist policies, including in the form of bilateral tariffs, should be avoided. Recent trade tensions are 
already having a negative impact on business sentiment, investment, growth and trade, but with limited 
impact on external imbalances. Instead, surplus and deficit countries alike should work towards reviving 
liberalization efforts and strengthening the rules -based multilateral trading system. The 2019 External Sector 
Report analytical chapter highlights that exchange rate flexibility remains esse ntial to facilitate external 
adjustment over the medium term. However, some important features of international trade – namely, 
integration into global value chains and trade invoicing in US dollars – can limit the benefits of exchange rate 
flexibility in the short term, and may need to be complemented by additional demand and supply -side policies.  
a Desirable policies correspond to normative benchmarks, capturing the appropriate levels of each policy variable in 
the model (e.g. fiscal policy, intervention,  public health spending, credit gap, and capital account openness). The 
appropriate levels are determined by the IMF country teams, who have specific knowledge of each economy. 
Desirable imbalances would be those warranted by fundamentals (e.g. demographic s, or institutional quality) and 
by desirable policies, while excess imbalances would be the rest. More details on methodology available at: 
https://www.imf.org/~/medi a/Files/Publications/WP/2019/WPIEA2019065.ashx . 
b Although IMF staff have conducted external assessments since the IMF 's inception, it was not until the early 
1990s that assessments became informed by a multilaterally -consistent, model -based framework. Ini tially, 
assessments were based on the framework of the Consultative Group on Exchange Rates (CGER), which mostly 
focused on exchange rates. The latest generation of EBA models are described in Cubeddu, L. et al., 2019, IMF 
Working Paper No. 19/65. Viewed a t: The External Balance Assessment Methodology: 2018 Update.  
c IMF, 2019 External Sector Report: The Dynamics of External Adjustment. Viewed at: 
https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/ESR/Issues/2019/07/03/2019 -external -sector -report . 
Source:  Carolina Osorio -Buitron and Pau Rabanal from the IMF Research Department.  
 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 25 - 
 
  3  TRADE AND TRADE -RELA TED POLICY ISSUES  
3.1  Overview of Trends Identified during the Review Period  
Introduction  
3.1.  This Section seeks to provide analysis of selected trade a nd trade -related policy developments 
during the period from mid -October 201 8 to mid -October 201 9. Several of the measures referred to 
were raised in various WTO Councils and Committees during that period. This is covered in more 
detail in Section 3.5.  
3.2.  During the review period, new trade restrictions and increasing trade tensions continued to add 
to the uncertainty surrounding international trade and the world economy. This Report builds on the 
findings of the July 2019 and November 2018 Trade Monitoring Rep orts12, and provides further 
evidence that trade flows are being hit by new and additional trade restrictions at a historically high 
level.  
3.3.  A total of 685 trade measures were recorded for WTO Members and Observers during the 
review period (Chart 3.1).13 This figure includes measures facilitating trade, trade remedy measures 
and other trade and trade -related measures. Chart 3.2 below illustrates the trade coverage of the 
measures recorded during the review period. These measures are covered in detail belo w. 
Chart 3.1 Overview of measures taken by WTO Members and Observers, mid -October 
2018 to mid -October 2019  
(by number)  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Chart 3.2 Trade coverage of import measures, mid -October 2018 to mid -October 2019  
(USD billion)  
 
Note:  2018 figures. ITA expansion measures are not included.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
 
12 WTO documents WT/TPR/OV/W/13,  8 July 2019 and WT/TPR/OV/21, 27 November 2018, 
respectively.  
13 See Annexes 1 -3. These Annexes do not include SPS and TBT measures which are covered in 
Sections  3.3 and 3.4. Services measures are analysed in Section 4 and are listed in Annex 4.  
270 193 120 102 
Trade remedy initiations Trade remedy terminations
Measures facilitating trade Measures restricting trade685G20 measures, mid -October 2018 to mid -October 2019
46 25 545 747 
Trade remedy initiations Trade remedy terminations
Measures facilitating trade Measures restricting trade1,363Trade coverage of import measures, mid -October 2018 to mid -October 2019
(USD billion)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 26 - 
 
  Overview  
3.4.  The Sections below provide detailed information on the latest trends among WTO Members and 
Observers in trade policy -making and the implementation of trade -related measures. They also seek 
to present estimates of the stockpile of import -restrictive measures implemented since the beginning 
of the trade monitoring exercise in 2009 and still in place.  
3.5.  With the  trade  coverage  of import -restrictive  measures  implemented  during  the review  period  
estimated  at USD 746.9  billion,  the highest  since 2012,  this Report  confirms  that trade  flows are 
being  hit by new and additional  trade  restrict ions. Additional measures have been announced for 
implementation after the current review period , and will be covered by the next Report.  
3.6.  The trade coverage of import -facilitating measures recorded for this period is the second 
highest since 2012. In addi tion, it is important to note the comprehensive liberalization which 
continues to take place as part of the ITA  Expansion Agreement (Box 3.1).  
3.7.  Secretariat estimates of the stockpile of import restrictions implemented by WTO Members and 
Observer s since 200 9, and still in force , suggest that 7.5% of world imports are affected by these. 
In other words, at the end of 2018, USD 1. 5 trillion out of a total USD 19.5 trillion of imports were 
affected by import restrictions put in place over the last decade and sti ll in force. The trade coverage 
of import -restrictive measures  implemented since 2009 and still in force by mid -October 2019 was 
estimated at USD 1.7 trillion14, indicating that  the stockpile of  import restrictions ha s continued to 
grow.  
Measures Facilitati ng Trade 
3.8.  Annex 1 to this Report lists measures which are clearly trade -facilitating.  
3.9.  During the review period, 120 new measures aimed at facilitating trade were recorded for 
WTO Members and Observers (Table 3.1)15, including 47 of a temporary nature. This r epresent 18% 
of the total number of measures recorded.  
Table 3.1 Measures facilitating trade (Annex 1)  
Type of measure  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  
Mid-Oct 17 to  
mid-Oct 1 8 
(WT/TPR/OV/21 ) 
Mid-Oct 18 to  
mid-Oct 19 
(WT/TPR/OV/22)  
Import  176 140 176 208 151 115 135 140 104 
- Tariff 154 109 147 165 116 94 111 110 93 
- Customs procedures  12 26 17 32 28 18 14 19 4 
- Tax 2 4 2 6 4 3 7 8 6 
- QRs 7 1 10 5 1 0 3 3 1 
- Other  1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 
Export  17 8 9 40 33 25 18 22 16 
- Duties  7 3 3 18 5 1 6 5 10 
- QRs 8 4 3 3 2 2 0 1 1 
- Other  2 1 3 19 26 22 12 16 5 
Other  6 1 1 4 3 0 0 0 0 
Total  199 149 186 252 187 140 153 162 120 
Average per month  16.6 12.4 15.5 21.0 15.6 11.7 12.8 13.5 10.0 
Note:  Revisions o f the data reflect changes undertaken in the TMDB to fine -tune and update the available 
information.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
 
14 Figures are based on 2018 trade. For some countries, 2018 import data were not yet available. The 
data for the previous full calendar year were used for those counties . 
15 Measures implemented in the context of the ITA Expansion Agreement are also included in these  
numbers.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 27 - 
 
  3.10.   Table 3.1 shows that, as for previous periods , the reduction or elimination of import tariffs 
continue to make up the overwhelming majority of trade -facilitating measures, followed by the 
reduction of taxes16 and the simplification of customs procedures.17 
3.11.   On the export side, reduction of export duties18 and simplification of customs procedures19 
were recorded (Ta ble 3.1).  
3.12.   The trade coverage of the import -facilitating measures introduced during the review period 
was estimated at USD 544.7 billion  (excluding ITA -related measures) , i.e. 2.8% of the value of world 
merchandise imports (Chart  3.3).20 This share  is the se cond highest trade coverage reported for this 
type of measures since October  2012 (Table  3.2). The HS Chapters within which most of the import -
facilitating measures were taken include: machinery and mechanical appliances (HS 84) 13.4%, 
electrical machines and equipment (HS  85) 12.1%, copper and articles thereof (HS 74) 7.6%, and 
motor vehicles (HS  87), 7.4%.  
Table 3.2 Share of trade covered by trade -facilitating measures   
Mid-Oct 13 to 
mid-Oct 14 
Mid-Oct 14  to 
mid-Oct 15 
Mid-Oct 15  to 
mid-Oct 16 
Mid-Oct 16  to 
mid-Oct 17 
Mid-Oct 17  to 
mid-Oct 18 
Mid-Oct 18  to 
mid-Oct 19 
Share in total world imports  6.4%  0.91%  1.51%  1.07%  1.68%  2.80%  
Note:  All data are based on data for the previous full calendar year. For example, data for 
mid-October  2013 to mid -October 2014 are based on data from calendar year 2013. For some 
countries, 2018 import data were not yet available. The data for the previous full calendar y ear were 
used for those counties.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat and UNSD Comtrade database.  
Box 3.1 Trade coverage of the ITA Expansion Agreement  
This Report includes several measures resulting from the implementation of the ITA Expansion Agreement.  
According to preliminary WTO Secretariat estimates, the trade coverage of the import -facilitating measures 
implemented during the review period in the context of the ITA Expansion Agreement amounted to 
USD 705 billion, or around 3.6% of the value of world merchandise imports.a These measures were 
implemented by Albania; Australia; Canada; China; the European Union; Hong Kong, Chinab; Icelandc; Israel; 
Japanb; Korea, Republic of ; Macao, Chinac; Malaysia; Mauritius; Montenegro; New Zealand; Norwayb; 
Philippines; Singaporeb; Switzerlandc; Chinese Taipei; Thailand and the United States, and are reflected in 
Annex  1.  
Given the very significant trade coverage value of these measures, they have not been included in the figures 
estimating the trade coverage of the import -facilitating measures in Section 3.1, as it would make any 
comparison with previous Reports difficult.  
a Calculated at the HS six -digit level and using 2018 import figures.  
b All duty -free as of July 2016.  
c All duty -free as of July 2017.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
 
16 For example, on imported pharmaceutical products, customs processing fees, import declarations fees 
on raw materials and intermediate goods, excise duty on oil and certain vehicles, and statistical fee on capital 
goods.  
17 For example, eliminati on of non -automatic licensing requirements on imports of certain paper , electronic 
processing applications for sanitary goods in transit, and the enlargement of operations covered by the single 
window system for foreign trade.  
18 For example, reduction of e xport duties on leather, skins; wheat, bones; ores, slag and ash; organic 
and inorganic chemicals; and base metals and articles of base metals.  
19 For example, simplification of administrative customs procedures on exports of raw hides, electronic 
processi ng application for sanitary goods in transit, and the enlargement of operations covered by the single 
window system for foreign trade.  
20 These figures include two measures by China (reduction of import tariffs), amounting for 74.5% of 
the total; and five m easures by Brazil (tariff reduction on capital goods, informatic and telecommunication 
goods), amounting for 4.9% of the total.   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 28 - 
 
  Chart 3.3 Trade coverage of new import -facilitating measures in each reporting period  
(not cumulative)  
(USD billion)  
 
Note:  These figures are estimates and represent the trade coverage of the measures (i.e. annual imports of 
the products concerned from economies affected by the measures) introduced during each reporting 
period , and not the impact of the trade measures. Liberali zation associated with the 2015 Expansion 
of the WTO's Information Technology Agreement is not included in the figures.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Trade Remedy Actions21 
3.13.   During the review period, 463 trade remedy actions were recorded for WTO Members, 
i.e. 68% of all trade measures recorded in this Report.22 Initiations of anti-dumping ( AD) 
investigations continue to be the most frequent trade remedy action, accounting for around 
four fifths of all initiations during the review period (Table 3.3). In the area o f Safeguards, the review 
period saw a significant increase in activity.  
Table 3.3 Trade remedy actions (Annex 2)  
Type of measure  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  
January to 
June  2019  
(6 months)  
Mid-Oct 17 to 
mid-Oct 1 8 
(WT/TPR/OV/21 ) 
Mid-Oct 18 to  
mid-Oct 19 
(WT/TPR/OV/22)  
Initiations  255 338 304 277 343 298 273 125 296 270 
- AD 208 287 236 229 298 249 202 100 229 212 
- CVD 23 33 45 31 34 41 55 15 53 32 
- SG 24 18 23 17 11 8 16 10 14 26 
Average per month  21.3 28.2 25.3 23.1 28.6 24.8 22.8 20.8 24.7 22.5 
Terminations  208 186 221 212 172 157 221 103 212 193 
- AD 177 160 186 167 142 128 197 84 182 172 
 
21 The coverage of trade remedy actions in this Report does not prejudge the right of WTO Members to 
take trade remedy actions.  See also Box 1 in Key Findings.  
22 A single methodology for the counting of anti -dumping and countervailing investigations is being applied 
across the Report, i.e. based on the number of exporting countries or customs territories affected by an 
investigati on or by a termination. Thus, one anti -dumping or countervailing investigation involving imports from 
n countries/customs territories is counted as n investigations. Similarly, the termination of an anti -dumping or 
countervailing action is counted as n terminations.  
2581,183
170249
169296545
02004006008001,0001,2001,400
mid-Oct12-
mid-Oct13mid-Oct13-
mid-Oct14mid-Oct14-
mid-Oct15mid-Oct15-
mid-Oct16mid-Oct16-
mid-Oct17mid-Oct17-
mid-Oct18mid-Oct18-
mid-Oct19Trade coverage of new import -facilitating measures in each reported period (not cumulative)
(USD billion)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 29 - 
 
  Type of measure  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  
January to 
June  2019  
(6 months)  
Mid-Oct 17 to 
mid-Oct 1 8 
(WT/TPR/OV/21 ) 
Mid-Oct 18 to  
mid-Oct 19 
(WT/TPR/OV/22)  
- CVD 21 17 23 25 15 12 24 8 26 12 
- SGa 10 9 12 20 15 17 0 11 4 9 
Average per month  17.3 15.5 18.4 17.7  14.3 13.1 18.4 17.2 17.7 16.1 
a The figure for a specific year is the sum of the following: (i) investigations terminated during the 
course of that specific year without a ny measure; and (ii) all imposed measures expired during the 
course of that specific year.  The figures are normally taken as of October of each year. For this 
Report, it is taken as of end of September.  
Note:  The information on trade remedy actions for 2012 to 2018 is based on the semi -annual notifications. 
For the present review period, the information is also based on the responses and the verification s 
received directly from Members. Anti -circumvention measures are not included in the above 
numbers.   
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.14.   Trade remedy actions taken during the review period covered a wide range of products, 
including initiations of investigations on furniture (HS 94) 24.7%, iron and steel (HS 72) 14%, 
articles of iron and steel (HS 73) 12.1%, and mac hinery and mechanical appliances (HS 84) 4.9%. 
The trade coverage of all trade remedy investigations initiated during the review period was 
estimated at USD 46.23 billion (0.24% of world merchandise imports). For termination s, the trade 
coverage was estima ted at USD 24.8 billion  (Table 3.4) . 
Table 3.4 Share of trade covered by trade remedy initiations   
Mid-Oct 13 
to mid -
Oct 14 
Mid-Oct 
14 to mid -
Oct 15 
Mid-Oct 
15 to mid -
Oct 16 
Mid-Oct 
16 to mid -
Oct 17 
Mid-Oct 
17 to mid -
Oct 18 
Mid-Oct 
18 to mid -
Oct 19 
Share in total world imports  0.20%  0.17%  0.55%  0.48%  0.53%  0.24%  
Note:  All data are based on data for the previous full calendar year. For example, data for mid -
October  2013 to mid -October 2014 are based on data from calendar year 2013. For some countries, 
2018 import data were not yet available. The data for the previous full calendar y ear were used for 
those counties.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat and UNSD Comtrade database.  
Other Trade and Trade-related Measures  
3.15.   Annex 3 to this Report list s measures which may be considered to have trade -restrictive 
effect.  
3.16.   A total of 102 new trade -restrictive measures were recorded for WTO Members and Observers 
collectively. Tariff increases account for more than half of all import -restrictive measures recor ded, 
followed by bans23, other24, stricter customs procedures25, and taxes.26 On the export side, duties27, 
customs procedures28, and quantitative restrictions29 were recorded ( Table 3.5).   
 
23 For example, QRs on biofuels, article of plastic, odoriferous preparations, food products, gold and 
pulses.  
24 For example, special safeguard measures (volume based) on certain food products.  
25 For example, import certificate for used capital g oods, import permit for tobacco, steel general import 
permits, and imposition of non -automatic licensing.  
26 For example, statistical fee and road and infrastructure fees on petrol imports, excise on vehicles and 
spirits, synthetic greenhouse gas levies.  
27 For example, duties on rice bran, oil -cake, waste and scrap of ferrous metals, fertilizers, and wet blue 
and crust.  
28 For example, requirement to settle foreign currency in the financial system, and licensing requirement 
on of ferrous and non -ferrous waste  and scrap exports.  
29 For example, QRs on onions and electronic cigarettes.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 30 - 
 
  Table 3.5 Other trade and trade -related measures (Annex 3)  
Type of measure  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  
Mid-Oct 17 to  
mid-Oct 1 8 
(WT/TPR/OV/21 ) 
Mid-Oct 18 to  
mid-Oct 19 
(WT/TPR/OV/22)  
Import  129 139 130 172 105 89 108 118 81 
- Tariff 76 87 81 113 70 51 63 79 47 
- Customs procedures  31 28 18 31 16 18 6 5 7 
- Tax 6 5 8 10 6 10 13 13 6 
- QRs 14 17 8 12 12 8 17 17 12 
- Other  2 2 15 6 1 2 9 4 9 
Export  22 31 25 45 20 19 18 17 19 
- Duties  3 5 11 13 6 5 9 7 6 
- QRs 12 10 8 7 10 8 4 5 4 
- Other  7 16 6 25 4 6 5 5 5 
Other  13 7 12 15 13 14 1 2 2 
- Othera 8 1 1 0 4 2 1 1 1 
- Local content  5 6 11 15 9 12 0 1 1 
Total  164 177 167 232 138 122 127 137 102 
Average per month  13.7 14.8  13.9  19.3  11.5 10.2 10.6 11.4 8.5 
a Other than local content measures.  
Note:  Revisions o f the data reflect changes undertaken in the TMDB to fine -tune and update the available 
information.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.17.   The trade coverage of the trade -restrictive measures affecting imports implemented during 
the review period was estima ted at USD  746.9  billion, i.e. 3.84% of the value of world merchandise 
imports (Table 3.6).30 This is the highest  trade coverage  recorded  since October  2012 (Chart  3.4) 
and represents  an increase  of 27% compared  to the figure  recorded  in the previous  annual  overview  
(USD  588.3  billion).  
3.18.   The measures recorded in Annex 3 cover a wide range of products. The main sectors affected 
(HS Chapters) were mineral and fuels oils (HS 27) 17.7%, machinery and mechanical appliances 
(HS 84) 13%, electrical machinery and parts thereof (HS  85) 11.7%, and precious metals (HS  71) 
6%. 
Table 3.6 Share of trade covered by import -restrictive measures (Annex 3)   
Mid-Oct 13 to 
mid-Oct 14 
Mid-Oct 14  to 
mid-Oct 15 
Mid-Oct 1 5 to 
mid-Oct 16 
Mid-Oct 16  to 
mid-Oct 17 
Mid-Oct 17  to 
mid-Oct 18 
Mid-Oct 18  to 
mid-Oct 19 
Share in total world imports  1.17%  1.23%  0.62%  0.50%  3.33%  3.84%  
Note:  All data are based on data for the previous full calendar year. For example, data for 
mid-October  2013 to mid -October 2014 are based on data from calendar year 2013. For some 
countries, 2018 import data were not yet available. The data for the previous full calendar y ear were 
used for those counties.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat and UNSD Comtrade database.  
 
30 These figures include two measure by the United States (imposition of additional duties on products 
from China), accounting for 46.7% of the total; two measures by India (increas es of import tariffs), accounting 
for 21.9.% of the total; and two measures by China (tariffs on imported goods from the United States), 
accounting for 11.4% of the total.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 31 - 
 
  Chart 3.4 Trade coverage of new import -restrictive measures in each reporting period  
(not cumulative)  
(USD billion)  
 
Note:  These figures are estimates and represent the trade coverage of the measures (i.e. annual imports of 
the products concerned from economies affected by the measures) introduced during each reporting 
period, and not the impact of the trade measures.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
The Stockpile of Import -Restrictive Measures  
3.19.   Following a decade of the trade monitoring exercise, the Secretariat has attempted to quantify 
the cumulative figures  for the trade coverage of import -restrictive measures in place, year -by-year, 
since 2009 (the stockpile).31 Calculating and providing accurate figures on the trade coverage of the 
stockpile of import -restrictive measures in place depend on the availability of up -to-date information 
on when individual measures have been modified or  terminated. Since 2009, WTO Members are 
periodically invited to update the information recorded for them individually in the Trade Monitoring 
Database  (TMDB) , in order to properly reflect the status of those trade restrictions which are no 
longer in force . Unfortunately, very few Members voluntarily update their records. For example, only 
three WTO Members submitted an update to the information recorded since 2009  in prepar ation for  
this Report .  
3.20.   Accurately estimating the roll -back of import -restrictive me asures, and eventually the overall 
stockpile, is made more complex by the fact that most so -called temporary measures tend to remain 
in place far beyond the envisaged expiry date. As a result, the figures below are estimates based on 
the information record ed in the TMD B since 2009. These estimates are also conditioned by the 
availability of termination dates of the import -restrictive measures and of the HS  codes of products 
covered.32  
3.21.   Table 3.7 shows that the stockpile of import restrictions by WTO Members and Observers in 
force has been growing steadily since 2009 – in value terms and as a percentage of world imports 
– and that a significant increase in both took place from 2017 to 2018. This specific jump is largely 
explained by measures introduced on stee l and aluminium, and by tariff increases introduced as part 
of bilateral trade tensions (but excluding those that have been terminated). It is estimated that, at 
the end of 2018, some 7.5% of world imports were affected by import restrictions implemented b y 
WTO Members since 2009 and still in force  (Chart 3.5) . In US dollars, this is the equivalent of more 
 
31 Highly -traded goods may significantly influence the trade coverage estimates.  
32 Only import measures where HS codes were available are included in the calculation.  
201214228
101
79588747
0100200300400500600700800
mid-Oct12-
mid-Oct13mid-Oct13-
mid-Oct14mid-Oct14-
mid-Oct15mid-Oct15-
mid-Oct16mid-Oct16-
mid-Oct17mid-Oct17-
mid-Oct18mid-Oct18-
mid-Oct19Trade coverage of new import -restrictive measures in each reported period (not 
cumulative)
(USD billion)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 32 - 
 
  than USD  1.5 trillion out of a total USD 19.5 trillion of world total imports. Table 3.7 also shows that 
the trade coverage for WTO Members and Observers  terminations of import restrictions represents 
0.03% of total imports, suggesting that a roll -back of such measures is minimal.  
Table 3.7 Cumulative trade coverage of import -restrictive measures since 2009  
(USD billion and %)   
2009  2010  2011  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  
Total imports (world)  12,486  15,163  18,109  18,193  18,483  18,654  16,360  15,812  17,500  19,476  
Total import restrictions 
in force  73.07  125.75  234.42  305.91  407.26  467.39  598.43  570.24 814.45  1,462.60  
Share in world imports (%)  0.59 0.83 1.29 1.68 2.20 2.51 3.66 3.61 4.65 7.51 
Total import restrictions  
terminated   1.68 15.43  59.41  37.15  34.05  1.51 38.09  3.88 6.36 
Share in world imports (%)   0.01 0.09 0.33 0.20 0.18 0.01 0.24 0.02 0.03 
Source:  WTO calculations, based on UNSD Comtrade database.  
Chart 3.5 Cumulative trade coverage of import -restrictive measures in force, since 2009  
(USD billion  and % of world merchandise imports ) 
 
Note:  The cumulative trade coverage estimated by the Secretariat is based on information available in the 
TMDB on import measures recorded since 2009 and considered to have a trade -restrictive effect. 
The estimates include import measures for which HS codes were available. The figures do not 
include trade remedy measures. The import values were sourced by the UNSD Com trade database.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.22.   The below Box 3.2 provides a non -exhaustive overview of the economic effects of the 
US-China trade tensions.  
731262343064074675985708141,463
0.60.81.31.72.22.53.7 3.64.77.5
012345678
02004006008001,0001,2001,4001,600
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Import restrictions in force (left axis) % of world imports (right axis)Cumulative trade coverage of import -restrictive measures in force since 2009
(USD billion)
Source:  WTO Secretariat.(%)
Note:  [See text in report].WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 33 - 
 
  Box 3.2 Economic Effects of the US -China Trade Conflict – Insights from Literature  
Since the imposition by the United States of the first additional tariffs on imports from China under Section 301 of 
the 1974 Trade Act in the first half of 2018, substantial economic literat ure on the possible economic effects of the 
US-China trade conflict has emerged. This literature can be divided into studies which infer these effects from actual 
changes in trade volumes and prices ( ex post  studies) and studies which use models to project  the expected impact 
of the measures ( ex ante studies).  
Since the start of this trade conflict, the two countries have raised tariffs substantially on each other's exports. The 
United States raised its average tariffs on Chinese imports from 3.1% to 21%, while China raised its average tariffs 
on US  imports from 8% to 21.8% (Bown, 2019). Further increases in tariffs are scheduled for the end of 2019.  
Some of the ex ante studies include simulations with macroeconomic business cycle models, and others, simula tions 
based on quantitative trade models. Table A provides an overview of nine studies, which differ in terms of: (i) the 
size of the tariff shocks (depending on when the study was conducted and whether rising trade costs in services were 
also considered);  (ii) the time horizon (medium -run or long -run); and (iii) the variant of the model employed and the 
inclusion of additional channels (through changes in investment, productivity, and uncertainty). Table A also includes 
the results of the simulations with the WTO Global Trade Model.  
All of the ex ante studies aim to isolate the direct and/or indirect economic effects of the trade policies – none is 
trying to predict future trade or economic outcomes, which are likely affected by many more factors than trade  policy 
changes. Such other factors can include changes in monetary and fiscal policy stances, other potential economic 
shocks such as energy price changes or even abnormal weather events.  However, as discussed below, the ex ante 
model results are thus far  supported by ex post  analyses, providing some confidence that the estimated isolated 
effects are within reason.  
The comparison of the studies leads to four main conclusions:  
• the direct effect of the tariff increases on global GDP is projected to be around -0.2% in the long run. 
When additional productivity and uncertainty effects are taken into account, the estimated impact 
rises to between -0.3% and -0.5%;  
• the estimated direct effect of the tariff increases on US GDP is relatively uniform across the  different 
studies, ranging between -0.2% and -0.4% in the long run. Considering additional productivity and 
uncertainty effects, the projected impact rises to -1.2% to -1.6%;  
• the estimated effect for China varies much more, with direct effects on Chinese GDP ranging between 
-0.3% and -1.4% in the long run. Considering additional productivity and uncertainty effects, the 
projected losses rise to between 1.7% and 2.5%; and  
• the estimated direct effect of the tariff increases is positive for most third countri es, indicating that 
the gains of import demand from the United States and China shifting to third countries (trade 
diversion effect) dominate the losses because of lower demand for intermediate inputs from China and 
the United States (value chain effect). Taking into account the uncertainty and investment effects, the 
impact on third countries becomes negative in some of the studies. It is important to consider that a 
slowdown in global growth, whether related to the trade conflict or due to broader cyclica l factors 
could have significant adverse effects on trade of third countries.  Thus, while third countries are 
projected to see trade increase because of the conflict, the overall effects from various economic forces 
could be adverse.  
The projected impacts  of the tariff measures are relatively small in comparison to the projected GDP and trade losses 
of 2% and 17%, respectively, of a global trade war in Bekkers and Teh (2019), as reported in Box  2.2 of the July 
mid-year Trade Monitoring  Report. This is beca use the conflict, so far, is contained within trade between the 
United  States and China, whereas Bekkers and Teh (2019) model a trade war that would be global.  
The ex ante studies can be compared with ex post  analyses of changes in trade volumes and prices  between the 
United States and China. US exports to China fell by about 7% in 2018, before diving by 19% in the first quarter of 
2019. While Chinese exports to the United States still increased by 7% in 2018, mostly because of frontloading 
(raising imports  just before tariffs are increased), they dropped by about 13% in the first quarter of 2019 
(Constantinescu et al.,  2019). The reduction in bilateral trade between the United States and China is, so far, smaller 
than projected by the ex ante studies employ ing quantitative trade models (around 60%). However, these models 
make projections for the long run, after value chains have been reorganized.  
Ex post  studies analysing changes in US -China trade so far come to similar conclusions (Amiti et al.  (2019), 
Fajgelbaum et al.(2019) and Cavallo et al.  (2019)). These studies find that, in 2018, there was a complete 
pass-through of US tariffs to importer prices. In other words, additional tariffs paid by US importers led to proportional 
increases in importer prices. This means that, until early 2018, Chinese exporters did not reduce their prices to (fully 
or partially) offset the higher tariffs. As observed by Con stantinescu et al. (2019), it is possible that Chinese export 
prices will fall in the future, given the fact that US demand for imports from China did not fall in 2018 in expectation 
of higher tariffs in 2019. Preliminary data analysed by Cavallo et al. (2019) indicate that, for most products, retailers 
absorbed the higher import prices in the form of lower profit margins.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 34 - 
 
  Table A Comparison of studies on the effects of the US -China trade conflict  
Study  % change real GDP rel. to 
baseline  Size shock  Variant  Type Horizon  
 China  United 
States  Global      
Balistreri 
et al. (2018)  -0.34 -0.20  Section 232 (aluminum and 
steel) and Section 301 
measures plus retaliation 
until January 2019  Standard  CGE Medium -run 
 
 
 -0.63 -0.34   Monopolistic 
competition    
Bellora and 
Fontagné 
(2019)  -0.39 -0.28  Section 232 (aluminum and 
steel) and Section 301 
measures plus retaliation 
until January 2019. Tariff 
shocks aggregated with ref. 
weighting  Standard  CGE Long-run 
(2030)  
       
Caceres 
et al. (2019)  -0.4 -0.3  25% all goods trade 
US-China  Firm 
heterogeneity 
model  NQT Medium -run 
Felbermayr 
and 
Steininger 
(2019)  -0.25 -0.14  25% all goods trade 
US-China  Standard  NQT Medium -run 
Freund et al. 
(2018)  -2.5 -0.4 -0.3 25% all trade (including 
services) US -China  Standard  CGE Long-run 
(2030)  
 -3.5 -1.6 -1.7 Investment/GDP ratio falls 
by 0.5pp  With 
investment 
effects   
IMF (2019)  -0.6 -0.4 -0.2 All tariffs announced and 
implemented until August 
2019 under Section 232 and 
Section 301 (plus response)  Standard  DSGE  Long-run 
 -1.0 -0.6 -0.3 With 
confidence, 
market reaction 
and productivity 
effects    
Itakura 
(2019)  -1.4 -0.3 -0.2 Section 232 and Section 301 
until June 2019 (including 
increase to 25% on 
200 billion)  Standard  CGE Long-run 
(2035)  
 -1.7 -1.4 -0.3 With 
productivity 
effects    
Walmsley 
and Minor 
(2018)  -2.7 -1.3  25% all goods trade 
US-China. Aluminum and 
steel and cars (25%), Mexico 
and Canada exempted  Standard  CGE Long-run 
(2030)  
       
WTO Global 
Trade Model 
calculations  -0.34 -0.24 -0.13 All tariffs announced and 
implemented until 
August  2019 under 
Section  232 and Section 301 
(plus response)  Firm 
heterogeneity  CGE Long-run 
(2023)  
 -0.43/  
-0.51 -1.15/  
-1.66 -0.34/  
-0.50 Including 
uncertainty 
effects   
Note:  CGE=computable general equilibrium model. NQT=new quantitative trade model. DSGE=dynamic 
stochastic general equilibrium model. Models with a medium -run horizon are comparatively static, thus 
comparing an initial and counterfactual equilibrium. Long -run models take into account changes in 
investment.  
References  
Ahir, H. N. Bloom and Furceri, D. (2019). The World Uncertainty Index.  
Bekkers, E. and Teh, R. (2019). Potential economic effects of a global trade conflict. Projecting the medium -run effects with 
the WTO Global Trade Model. Staff Working Paper ERSD -2019-04. 
Balistreri, E. C. Böhringer and Rutherford,  T. (2018). Quantifying Disruptive Trade Policies. CESifo Working Paper No.  7382.  
Bellora, C. and Fontagné, L. (2019). Shooting oneself in the foot? Trade war and global value chains. Mimeo CEPII.  
Bown, C. P. (2019). US -China Trade War: The Guns of August . Peterson Institute.  
Caceres, C., Cerdeiro, D. A. and R. C. Mano (2019). Trade Wars and Trade Deals: Estimated Effects using a Multi -Sector 
Model. IMF WP/19/143.  
Constantinescu, C., Mattoo, A. and Ruta, M. (2019). Global Trade Watch 2018. Trade Amid Tensions. World Bank Report.  
Felbermayr, G. and Steininger, M. (2019). Trump's trade attack on China − who will have the last laugh? CESifo Forum 
20(1): 27 -32. 
Freund, C., Ferrantino, M., Maliszewska, M. and Ruta, M. (2018). Impacts on Global Trade and Inc ome of Current Trade 
Disputes. MTI Practice Notes.  
IMF (2019). World Economic Outlook. Chapter 1.  
Itakura, K. (2019) Evaluating the Impact of the US –China Trade War Asian Economic Policy Review 1 -17. 
Walmsley, T. and Minor, P. (2018). Estimated Impacts of US Sections 232 and 301 Trade Actions on the US and Global 
Economies: A Supply Chain Prospective 2018 -2030. Technical report, ImpactECON.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat based on v arious studies.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 35 - 
 
  3.2  Trade Remedies33 
3.23.   This analysis provides an assessment of trends in trade remedy actions in the periods from 
July 2016 to June 2017 ("first period"), July 2017 to June 2018 ("second period") and July 2018 to 
June 2019 (" third period").34 Concerning anti -dumping, data for the third period indicate a significant 
drop in the number of new investigations initiated. The number of countervailing duty investigations 
initiated decreased significantly from the second to the third period, to almost the same number as 
during the first period. Initiations of safeguard investigations continued their increasing trend 
recorded in the most recent periods.  
Anti-Dumping Measures  
3.24.   Global anti -dumping initiations decreased by 20% in the seco nd period, from 290 in the first 
period to 233, and then again, by 23%, to 179 in the third period  (Table  3.8). The Table provides 
more information on which Members initiated investigations.  
Table 3.8 Initiati ons of anti -dumping investigations by reporting Member  
Reporting Member  July 2016 -June 2017  July 2017 -June 2018  July 2018 -June 2019  
Argentina  21 18 15 
Australia  18 15 8 
Bahrain, Kingdom of; Kuwait,  the 
State of; Oman; Qatar; Saudi 
Arabia, Kingdom of; United Arab 
Emiratesa 1 3 5 
Brazil  12 9 0 
Canada  19 11 9 
Chile 2 2 0 
China  12 23 18 
Colombia  3 8 1 
Dominican Republic  0 0 1 
Egypt  13 1 2 
El Salvador  1 1 0 
European Union  12 8 11 
India 55 44 21 
Indonesia  7 1 0 
Israel  4 0 0 
Japan  3 0 0 
Korea, Republic of  7 6 7 
Madagascar  0 0 1 
Malaysia  4 0 8 
Mexico  6 8 5 
Morocco  1 0 0 
New Zealand  0 4 0 
Pakistan  13 1 10 
Paraguay  1 0 0 
Peru 1 2 1 
Russian Federationb 2 5 3 
South Africac 0 0 3 
Chinese  Taipei  0 2 0 
Thailand  3 3 1 
Turkey  19 8 0 
Ukraine  2 7 11 
United States  47 43 33 
Viet Nam  1 0 5 
Total  290 233 179 
a Investigations are initiated at the level of the Gulf Cooperation Council.  
b  Notified by the Russian Federation, but investigations are initiated by the Eurasian Economic Union 
on behalf of all of its members, i.e. Armenia, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan (which became a 
WTO Member on 30 November 2015), and Belarus ( a non-WTO Member) , collectively.  
c Notified by South Africa, but investigations are initiated at the level of the  Southern African Customs 
Union (SACU) , i.e. also in respect of Botswana, Eswatini , Lesotho, and Namibia.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
 
33 Anti-dumping and countervailing investigations are counted on the basis of the number of exporting 
countries or customs territories affected by an investigation. Thus, one anti -dumping or countervailing 
investigation involving imports from n countries is counted as n investigations.  
34 These periods coincide with the Member's semi -annual reporting periods.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 36 - 
 
  3.25.   Chart 3. 6 shows  that the number of anti -dumping investigations initiated increased from 165 
in 2011 to 287 in 2013, decreased  to 236 and 229 initiations in 2014 and 2015, respectively, and 
increased to 298 in 2016. That was the highest number of initiations since the 311 of 2002 but was 
still off the all -time high of 372 in 2001. A downward trend was observed in 2017 (when the 
initiations decreased to 249) and 2018 (202).  
Chart 3.6 Initiations of anti -dumping investigations, 2008 -19 
 
Note:  Data for 2019 cover January to June.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.26.   While anti -dumping investigations do not necessarily lead to the imposition of measures, a 
decrease in the number of those initiated may be an early indicator of a likely decrease in the number 
of measures imposed.  
3.27.   Over the three  12-month periods since July 2016,  a total of 573 anti-dumping measures were 
imposed (Table 3. 9). However, as it can take up to 18 months for an investigation to be concluded 
once initiated, these measures may not necessarily be the result of initiations in the same period. 
Comparing the three covered  periods, while the number of measures increased slightly between the 
first and second periods, they dropped by 32%, from 217 to 148 measures, between the second and 
third periods.  
Table 3.9 Number of anti -dumping measures imposed  
Reporting Member  July 2016 -June 2017  July 2017 -June 2018  July 2018 -June 2019  
Argentina  2 13 6 
Australia  11 10 10 
Bahrain, Kingdom of; Kuwait, the 
State of; Oman; Qatar; Saudi Arabia, 
Kingdom of; United Arab Emiratesa 1 0 2 
Brazil  14 10 3 
Canada  12 2 13 
Chile 2 1 1 
China  10 12 17 
Colombia  0 3 6 
Costa Rica  1 0 0 
Dominican Republic  1 0 0 
Egypt  4 5 1 
El Salvador  0 1 0 
218 217
173165208287
236229298
249
202
100
050100150200250300350
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Source:  WTO Secretariat.Initiations of anti -dumping investigations , 2008 -2019
Note:   Data for 2019 cover January to June.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 37 - 
 
  Reporting Member  July 2016 -June 2017  July 2017 -June 2018  July 2018 -June 2019  
European Union  11 6 2 
India 41 44 20 
Indonesia  2 2 0 
Israel  1 0 3 
Japan  2 3 0 
Korea, Republic of  2 7 6 
Malaysia  0 4 2 
Mexico  7 6 6 
Morocco  0 5 1 
Pakistan  4 26 5 
Peru 1 1 0 
Philippines  0 1 0 
Russian Federationb 1 1 1 
Chinese  Taipei  8 0 0 
Thailand  9 2 0 
Turkey  7 16 2 
Ukraine  3 1 8 
United States  49 34 33 
Viet Nam  2 1 0 
Total  208 217 148 
a Measures are imposed at the level of the Gulf Cooperation Council.  
b Notified by the Russian Federation, but investigations are initiated by the Eurasian Economic Union 
on behalf of all its members, i.e. Armenia, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan (which became a WTO 
Member on 30 November 2015), and Belarus ( a non-WTO Member) , collectively.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
3.28.   Chart 3. 7 shows that there was little change  in terms of the products affected by anti -dumping 
investigatio ns initi ated during the three periods examined, with the majority of initiations focused 
on products in the metals, chemicals, and plastics and rubber sectors.  
3.29.   Metal products were subject to the most initiations in each period, accounting for 4 1% of all 
initiatio ns in the first period, 28% in the second period , and 4 5% in the third period . In each period, 
at least 65 initiations targeted metals, of which 75%-92% focused on steel products ( Chapters 72 
and 73 of the HS  classification ). Over the 3 periods combined, the United States  (57), Canada ( 24), 
Australia ( 23), the European Union ( 18) and Pakistan  (13) accounted for more than half of the 
266 initiations on metals. An increase  in the number of initiations against metal products was seen 
in the  last period , with 12 investigations initiated by the United States, 10 each by Pakistan and 
India, 8  each by Canada  and Malaysia, 6 by Ukraine, 4 each by China, the European Union, Mexico 
and Argentina, 3 each by Australia, the Russian Federation and Viet  Nam, and 1 each by Thailand 
and the Dominican Republic . Initiations against metals across the three periods affected mostly 
products from China ( 82, of which 64 involved steel products), the Republic of Korea ( 17, all steel), 
Viet Nam ( 16, of which 13 involved steel) , India ( 14, of which 13 involved steel),  Chinese  Taipei 
(11, all steel), Turkey ( 10, of which 9 involved steel) and the Russian Federation (10, of which 
9 involved steel). In many instances, investigations were launched on the same product fro m several 
exporting countries. For instance, 8 steel products were the focus of 88 investigations.  
3.30.   Chemical products accounted for the second -largest share of initiations over the 
three  reporting periods, with a 27% share of initiations in the first period, a 18% share in the second 
period, and a 13% share in the third period . India accounted for 45 of the 144 new investigations 
on products in this sector over the 3 reporting periods, fol lowed by China (29) and the United  States 
(23). These initiations involved mostly chemical products from China (21), the Republic of Korea 
(15), Japan (11), Thailand (8), the United States (7) and Chinese Taipei, Russian Federation and 
India (6  each). As i n the metals sector, investigations into chemicals frequently involved the same 
product from different countries  – 15 products accounted for 75 of the investigations in this area.  
3.31.   Plastics and rubber ranked third over the three periods examined, accountin g for 1 1% of all 
initiations in the first period, 21% in the second period, and 10% in the third period . India ( 25), the 
United States ( 16) and China ( 15) accounted for more than half of the 100 plastics and rubber 
investigations. China was once again the main target  of investigations in this sector ( 19), followed 
by the Republic of Korea ( 16), Thailand ( 8), and Chinese Taipei and  the United States  (6 each ). WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 38 - 
 
  3.32.   In terms of countries affected by new anti -dumping investigations, 50 exporting Members 
were affecte d during the first period, while 46 were affected during the second period and 44 in the 
third period . China remained, by far, the most targeted Member by anti -dumping initiations during 
the three reporting periods , accounting  for 27% of all investigations  overall . The second most 
affected Member during the three reporting periods – the Republic of Korea – accounted for 8% of 
the total initiations, followed by Chinese Taipei, India, Thailand and Japan, at 4% each.  
Chart 3.7 Initiations of anti -dumping investigations, by product  
 
 
Note:  Values are rounded.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Countervailing Measures  
3.33.   As shown in Table 3.10 , the number of global initiations of countervailing duty investigations 
decreased significantly to 37 in the third period , compared to 52 in the second period, after having 
increased from 36 in the first period. Around 90% of these  investigations were con ducted 
concurrently with an anti -dumping investigation.  
3.34.   Among the 14 Members using countervailing measures during the 3 periods examined, 
the United States initiated the largest number of new investigations (63), accounting for 50% of the 
total. Canada, t he second -largest user, accounted for 13% , and India for 8%. The remaining 
investigations were conducted by 11 different countries.  
Initiations of anti-dumping investigations, by product
July 2016 -June 2017 July 2017 -June 2018
Chemicals
27%Textiles 
7%Metals
41%Metals
28%
Chemicals
18%Plastics
21%Other
12%Machinery
4%Textiles
8%Other
7%Machinery
3%Stone / 
Plaster
4%
Paper
8%
Plastics
11%
Source: WTO Secretariat.July 2018 -June 2019
Chemicals
13%Textiles
4%
Metals
45%Machinery
7%
Plastics
10%Other
10%Paper
4%
Stone / Plaster
6%
Note: Values are rounded.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 39 - 
 
  Table 3.10 Initiations of countervailing investigations  
Reporting Member  July 2016 -June 2017  July 2017 -June 2018  July 2018 -June 2019  
Australia  5 2 1 
Brazil  1 1 0 
Canada  6 10 0 
China  1 1 2 
Colombia  0 0 1 
Egypt  2 0 0 
European Union  0 3 4 
India 0 1 9 
New Zealand  1 2 0 
Peru 1 0 1 
Chinese  Taipei  0 5 0 
Turkey  0 1 0 
Ukraine  0 0 1 
United States  19 26 18 
Total  36 52 37 
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
3.35.   Chart 3. 8, reflecting  annual figures, shows an upward trend in countervailing initiations from 
2010 to 2014, notwithstanding some fluctuation in 2012. Following a decrease in 2015, the number 
of initiations steadily increased for the last four years. In fact, the number of ini tiations recorded in 
2018 (55) was the peak of initiations observed since 1999.  
3.36.   As with anti -dumping, countervailing duty investigations do not necessarily lead to the 
imposition of measures. However, a rise in the number of investigations initiated may be  an early 
indicator of a likely rise in the number of measures imposed. Over the three periods, a total of 
78 countervailing measures were imposed (Table 3.11) . However, as it can take up to 18 months 
for an investigation to be concluded, these measures ma y not necessarily be the result of initiations 
in the same period. This lag may account for the substantial increase in the number of measures 
applied in the third period  compared with the second period, despite the drop recorded in the number 
of investigations initiated.  
Chart 3.8 Initiations of countervailing investigations, 2008 -19 
 
Note:  Data for 2019 cover January to Ju ne. 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
1628
925
233345
31344155
15
0102030405060
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Source:  WTO Secretariat.Initiations of countervailing investigations, 2008 -2019
Note:   Data for 2019 cover January to June.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 40 - 
 
  Table 3.11 Number of c ountervailing duty measures imposed  
Reporting Member  July 2016 -June 2017  July 2017 -June 2018  July 2018 -June 2019  
Australia  3 1 1 
Brazil  0 1 1 
Canada  2 1 5 
China  1 1 0 
European Union  1 0 3 
India 0 1 1 
Mexico  0 0 0 
Peru 0 0 1 
United States  21 15 18 
Total  28 20 30 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.37.   Concerning the products affected by countervailing investigations , Chart 3. 9 shows that 
metals accounted for most of the initiations reported over the three reporting periods, with 47%, 
46% and 41% of all initiations, respectively. For the three periods combined, 56 of the 125 total 
initiations recorded covered metals , and 45 of t hese specifically targeted steel products. The 
United  States initiated 24 of the 45 investigations on steel products. Of the 45 steel -related 
initiations in the third period , 25 involved products from China.  
3.38.   Over the three reporting periods, chemicals and plastics were the second and third 
most-investigated sectors , with 19 and 13 initiations, respectively, followed by vehicles and textile 
products with six and five initiations , respectively.  
Chart 3.9 Initiations of countervailing investigations, by product  
 
 
Note:  Values are rounded.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Initiations of countervailing investigations, by product
July2016 -June 2017 July 2017 -June 2018
Metals
47%Metals
46%Chemicals
8%
Other
17%Vehicles
6%
Other
8%Wood
6%
Chemicals
33%Textiles
6%
Plastics
23%
Source: WTO Secretariat.July 2018 -June 2019
Vehicles
5%
Metals
41%
Other
8%Chemicals
8%Textiles
5%
Note: Values are rounded.Glass / stone
11%Mineral products
8%Vegetable products
8%Misc. manuf. products
5%WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 41 - 
 
  3.39.   In terms of countries or customs territories targeted by new countervailing investigations, 
15 exporting Members were affected during the  first period, 14 during the second period and 
14 during the third period . China was the most frequent target of investigations, accounting for 43% 
of all investigations during the three periods. India, the second most frequent target, accounted for 
12%, f ollowed by Turkey, with 6%. 
Safeguard Measures  
3.40.   Safeguard measures are temporary measures imposed in response to increased imports of 
goods that are causing serious injury, and are imposed on products from all sources , i.e. all exporting 
countries.35 They are subject to different rules and timelines than anti-dumping ( AD) and 
countervailing ( CVD) measures and  are, therefore , not directly comparable  to these other types of 
trade remedies . 
Chart 3.10 Total s afeguard investigation initiations and impositions, 2008 -19 
 
Note:  Data for 2019 cover January to June.  
 Some notifications are ambiguous about  the timing  when the measures take effect . For those, 
 Members sometimes subsequently file an additional notifi cation clarifying, ex post, the timing of the 
 measure's taking effect. For this reason, the number of impositions indicated in past reports can  
 differ from the figures indicated in the most recent Report.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Table 3.12 Initiations of safeguard investigations  
Reporting Member  July 2016 -
June 2017  July 2017 -
June 2018  July 2018 -
June 2019  
Bahrain, Kingdom of; Kuwait, the State of; Oman; Qatar; 
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of; United Arab Emiratesa 1 1 0 
Canada  0 0 1 
Chile 0 1 0 
China  1 0 0 
Colombia  0 0 1 
Costa Rica  0 1 1 
Egypt  0 0 1 
European Union  0 1 0 
India 0 1 0 
Indonesia  0 1 2 
Jordan  1 0 0 
 
35 With the exception of special and differential treatment provide for developing countries in Article  9.1 
of the Safeguards Agreement.  
1025
20
1224
1823
17
11
816
10
610
411
6811 11
69
78
051015202530
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Initiations ImpositionsTotal safeguard investigation initiations and impositions, 2008 -2019
Source:    WTO Secretariat.a  Data for 2019 relate to the to the period January to June, as reported by Members.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 42 - 
 
  Reporting Member  July 2016 -
June 2017  July 2017 -
June 2018  July 2018 -
June 2019  
Madagascar  0 0 3 
Morocco  0 0 2 
Panama  0 0 1 
Philippines  0 0 3 
Russian Federationb 0 0 3 
South Africac 1 1 1 
Turkey  2 1 1 
Ukraine  0 1 0 
United States  2 0 0 
Viet Nam  2 0 0 
Total  10 9 20 
a Investigations are initiated at the level of the Gulf Cooperation Council.  
b Identified here as the Russian Federation for brevity, but all investigations are initiated by the 
Eurasian Economic Union on behalf of all of its members, i.e. Armenia, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan 
(which became a WTO Member on 30 November 2015), and Belar us (a non -WTO Member), 
collectively.  
c Notified by South Africa, but investigations are initiated at the level of the Southern African Customs 
Union (SACU), i.e. also in respect of Botswana, Eswatini , Lesotho,  and Namibia.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.41.   Chart 3 .10 shows the trend of initiations of safeguard  investigations, side by side with the 
trend of impositions on a calendar -year basis since 2008. Over this period, the year 2009 saw the 
largest number of initiations (25), with similar levels recorded in 2012  (24) and 2014 (23). From 
those previous high levels, initiations of safeguard  investigations had been declining. However, the 
number has begun  to climb again as of 2018. Projecting the 2019 semi -annual figure into a yearly 
number would suggest an increase  from the previous year's level. Table  3.12, which  shows the 
breakdown on a July -June basis of Members that initiated these investigations, confirms this 
development.  
3.42.   The data on the imposition of safeguard  measures show a more spectacular  change. At the 
current rate, the figure for 2019 as a whole would reach 16, twice the level recorded in 2017 and 
2018. The previous peak, in 2003, was 15 safeguard measures imposed.  
3.43.   Table 3.1 3 shows the breakdown of Members that imposed safeguard  measures on a 
July-June basis. It is noteworthy that non -traditional users of safeguards , like Canada (on steel 
products), the European Union (on steel products), the Eurasian Economic Union (on steel products; 
will come into effect on 1 December 2019) and Madagascar (which is an  LDC; none of its measures 
relate to steel) imposed safeguard measures during 2019.  
Table 3.13 Number of safeguard measures imposed  
Reporting Member  2016  2017  2018  2019  
Bahrain, Kingdom of; Kuwait, the State 
of; Oman; Qatar; Saudi Arabia, Kingdom 
of; United Arab Emiratesa 0 0 1 1 
Canada  0 0 0 1 
Chile 1 0 0 0 
China  0 1 0 0 
European Union  0 0 0 1 
India 2 0 1 0 
Indonesia  0 0 1 1 
Jordan  0 1 0 0 
Madagascar.  0 0 0 2 
Malaysia  0 2 0 0 
Morocco  0 1 0 0 
Russian Federation b 0 0 0 1 
South Africac 0 1 0 1 
Thailand  0 1 0 0 
Turkey  0 1 0 0 
Ukraine  1 0 1 0 
United States  0 0 2 0 
Viet Nam  2 1 1 0 
Total  6 9 7 8 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 43 - 
 
  a Investigations are initiated at the level of the Gulf Cooperation Council.  
b  Identified here as the Russian Federation for brevity, but all measures are imposed by the Eurasian 
Economic Union on behalf of all of its members, i.e. Armenia, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan (which 
became a WTO Member on 30 November 2015), and Belarus (a non -WTO Member), collectively.  
c Notified by South Africa, but all measures are imposed at the level of the Southern African Customs 
Union (SACU), i.e. also in respect of Botswana, Eswatini , Lesotho,  and Namibia .  
Note:  Data for 2019  cover January to June . 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Table 3.14 Number of safeguard measures imposed for the period under review  
 
July 2016 -June 2017  July 2017 -June 2018  July 2018 -June 2019  
Measures imposed  10 6 11 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.44.   The latest imposition figures , on a July -June basis, also show an increase from the second to 
the third period , to slightly above the level in the first period. Both sets of data – on initiation and 
imposition – suggest that safeguards have entered an active phase  (Table  3.14) .  
3.45.   Chart 3.1 1 shows  the products covered by the initiated  safeguard  investigations , on a 
July-June basis. While the metals sector (the vast majority of which involve steel products) still 
occupies the largest share, the number of investigations initiated in that sector was 9 percentage 
points lower than in the July 2017 -June 2018 period.  
Chart 3.11 Initiations of safeguard investigations, by product  
 
 
Note:  Values are rounded.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Initiations of safeguard investigations, by product
July 2016 -June 2017 July 2017 -June 2018
Chemicals
10%Metals
40%Metals
44%
Chemicals
22%Animal 
products
11%Machinery
11%Stone / plaster
11%
Foodstuff
10%
Machinery
20%Misc. manuf.
products
10%
Plastics
10%
Source: WTO Secretariat.July 2018 -June 2019
Foodstuff
10%
Textiles
10%Metals
35%
Machinery
10%Animal products
5%
Chemicals
5%Paper
5%
Stone / 
Plaster
15%
Note: Values are rounded.Wood
5%WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 44 - 
 
  3.3  Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures36 
3.46.   Under the SPS Agreement, WTO Members are obliged to provide an advance notice of 
intention to introduce  new or modified SPS measures37, or to notify immediately when emergency 
measures are imposed. The main objective of complying with the SPS notification obligations is to 
inform other Members about new or changed regulations that may significantly affect tr ade. 
Therefore, an increased number of notifications does not automatically imply greater use of 
protectionist measures, but rather enhanced transparency regarding food safety, animal and plant 
health measures, many or most of which presumably are legitima te health -protection measures.  
3.47.   In the period from 1 October 2018 to 30 September 201938, 1,601  SPS notifications (regular 
and emergency, including addenda) were submitted39 to the WT O, resulting in an almost similar 
number of  total notified measures compared  to the previous period (1,623 notifications from 
1 October  2017 to 30  September  2018). Notifications from developing -country Members accounted 
for 68% of the total number. In the previous period , these  accounted for 75 %. Consequently, in the 
period under review, there was an 11% decrease  in the number  of notifications made by 
developing -country Members as compared to the previous 12-month peri od (Chart 3. 12). 
3.48.   During the review period , WTO Members submitted 1,465  regular SPS notifications (including 
addenda), 66% of which were submitted by developing -country Members. Compared with the 
previous 12-month period, the total number of regular notifications remained stable while those  
submitted by developing -country Mem bers decreased by 7% . 
3.49.   As far as emergency measures (including addenda) are concerned, a decrease in the number 
of notifications submitted was observed as compared with the previous period . While t he total 
number of emergency notifications (including addend a) decreased by 29% in the review period 
(136 compared to 192 during the previous period), the  proportion  of all emergency notifications  
(including addenda) submitted by developing -country Members  remained high , constituting 82% of 
the total (compared with  91% in the previous period). These high percentage figures are consistent 
with the general trend of the majority of emergency measures being notified by developing -country 
Members. This could  be because  they may not have as extensive SPS  regulatory system s as 
developed -country Members do . Consequently, when facing emergency challenges, they are more 
likely to have to introduce new regulations or change existing ones.  
3.50.   Many Members are following the recommendation to notify SPS measures even when these 
are based on a relevant international standard, as this substantially increases transparency. Of the 
1,127  regular notifications (excluding addenda) submitted from 1 Octob er 2018 to 
30 September  2019, 56% indicated that at least one international standard, guideline or 
recommendation was applicable to the notified measure  (Chart  3.13). Of these, about 75% indicated 
that the proposed measure was in conformity with the applic able international standard.  
 
36 Information presented in this Section was retrieved from the SPS Information Management System 
(SPS IMS: http://spsims.wto.org ). This Section is based on notificati ons to the WTO for the period 
1 October  2018 to 30 September 201 9. Specific trade concerns (STCs) are raised at SPS Committee meetings. 
The information in this Section summarizes the STCs raised at the 11-12 November  2018, 21-22 March 2019 
and 18-19 July 2019 SPS Committee meetings.  
37 Transparency obligations are contained in Article 7 and Annex B of t he SPS Agreement. Annex B 
requires that Members notify measures whose content is not substantially the same as that of an international 
standard, guideline or recommendation, and when the measure may have a significant effect on trade. 
However, the Recomme nded Procedures for Implementing the Transparency Provisions of the SPS Agreement, 
adopted by the SPS Committee in 2008 ( WTO document G/SPS/7/Rev. 4), recommend that Members also 
notify measures which are based on the relevant international standards, and p rovide a broad interpretation of 
effects on trade.  
38 For the SPS Section, the review period covers 1 October 2018  to 30 September 2019. 
39 For this Report, submission refers to the date of circulation.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 45 - 
 
  Chart 3.12 Number  of SPS notifications (including addenda)  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Chart 3.13 Regular  SPS notifications (excluding  addenda) and international standards  
 
Note:  Codex Alimentarius (Codex), World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and International Plant 
Protection Convention (IPPC).  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.51.   International standards often provide useful guidance regarding measures to address disease 
outbreaks and other emergency situations. Indeed, about 85% (98 in total) of the 115 emergency 
notifications (excluding addenda) submitted during the review period indicated that an international 
standard, guideline or recommendation was applicable to the notified measure ( Chart  3.14). Of 
these, all but six indicated that the measure was in conformity with the applicable international 
standard.  
1,431
1,0371,465
969192
175136
112
02004006008001,0001,2001,4001,6001,8002,000
All Members Developing-country
MembersAll Members Developing-country
MembersNumber of SPS notifications (including addenda)
Source: WTOSecretariat.Regular notifications Emergency notificationsOct. 2017 -Sep. 2018 Oct. 2018 -Sep. 2019
Codex
55%
OIE
25%
IPPC
20%
Source: WTO Secretariat.Regular SPS notifications (excluding addenda) and international standards
None
44%Relevant 
international 
standard
56%
Note: Codex Alimentarius (Codex), World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and International Plant Protection 
Convention (IPPC)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 46 - 
 
  Chart 3.14 Emergency  SPS notifications (excluding addenda) and international 
standards  
 
Note:  Codex Alimentarius (Codex), World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and International Plant 
Protection Convention (IPPC).  
Source:  WTO Secretariat  
3.52.   Of the 1,127  regular notifications (excluding addenda) submitted in the review period , the 
majority were related to food safety and animal health .40 The remain der related to plant protection , 
the protection of humans from animal diseases or p lant pests , and the protection of the Member's 
territory from other damage from pests . It is not unusual for regular notifications to contain  more 
than one objective.   
3.53.   Of the 115 emergency measures (excluding addenda) notified in the same period, the 
majority related to animal health, followed by measures related to food safety, plant protection,  the 
protection of humans from animal diseases or plant pests,  and the protection of t he Member's 
territory from other damage from pests. Similarly, emergency notifications may contain  more than 
one objective . 
3.54.   While there is no formal provision for "counter notification", concerns regarding the failure to 
notify an SPS measure, or regarding  a notified measure, can be raised a s a specific trade concern 
(STC) at any of the three regular meetings of the SPS Committee each year. In the Committee 
meetings of 11-12 November  2018, 21-22 March 2019 and 18-19 July 2019, 17 STCs were raised  
for the fi rst time (Table 3.1 5), and 23  previously -raised STCs were discussed again (Table 3.1 6).  
3.55.   The margins of the SPS Committee meetings provide important opportunities for delegations, 
often includ ing capital -based experts , to discuss and resolve STCs bilateral ly. During the review 
period, Brazil withdrew an STC regarding Peru's restrictions on fresh pork meat. This item had been 
included in the proposed agenda for the July 2019 meeting, and was withdrawn because progress 
had been made in bilateral meetings sche duled to discuss the existing technical requirements. 
Furthermore, during the period under review, one STC was reported as resolved under the specific 
agenda item.41 Since 1995,  43% of all STCs raised at the Committee have been reported as resolved  
or parti ally resolved . 
 
40 The objective of an SPS measure falls under one or mo re of the following categories: (i)  food safety , 
(ii) animal health ; (iii) plant protection ; (iv) protect ion of  humans from animal/plant pest or disease ; and 
(v) protect ion of  territory from other damages from pests. Members are required to identify the purpose of the 
measure in their notifications. It is not uncommon for more than one objective to be identified for a measure.  
41 This was STC 411.  
Codex
2%
OIE
81%
IPPC
17%
Source: WTO Secretariat.Emergency SPS notifications (excluding addenda) and international standards
None
15%Relevant 
international 
standard
85%
Note: Codex Alimentarius (Codex), World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and International Plant Protection 
Convention (IPPC)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 47 - 
 
  Table 3.15 New SPS  STCs raised in November 2018, March 2019 or July 2019  meetings  
STC Document title  Members 
maintaining 
the measure  Members 
raising the 
concern  Members 
supporting 
the concern  Date 
raised  Primary 
objective  
448 EU maximum residue levels 
(MRLs) for buprofezin, 
diflubenzuron, 
ethoxysulfuron, ioxynil, 
molinate, picoxystrobin and 
tepraloxydim 
(G/SPS/N/EU/264)  European Union  Colombia; 
India; United 
States  Argentina; 
Brazil; Canada; 
Chile; Costa 
Rica; Ecuador; 
Guatemala; 
Honduras; 
Nicaragua; 
Panama; 
Paraguay; 
Peru; Turkey  01/11/2018  Food safety  
449 Russian Federation's 
bluetongue -related import 
restriction on ruminants  Russian 
Federation  European 
Union   01/11/2018  Animal Health  
450 Viet Nam's import 
restrictions in the draft law 
of animal production  Viet Nam  United States  Canada; 
Paraguay  01/11/2018  Food safety  
451 Thailand's import fees 
related to approval 
procedures for live animals 
and/or animal products 
(G/SPS/N/THA/243)  Thailand  United States   01/11/2018  Other 
concerns  
452 European Court of Justice 
Opinion 528/16 on 
organisms obtained by 
mutagenesis  European Union  United States  Argentina; 
Paraguay  01/11/2018  Other 
concerns  
453 EU restrictions on the use of 
chlorothalonil (pesticide 
active substance) 
(G/TBT/N/EU/625)  European Union  Colombia  Bolivia, 
Plurinational 
State of; Brazil; 
Chile; Costa 
Rica; Ecuador; 
Guatemala; 
Honduras;  
Panama; 
Paraguay; 
Turkey; United 
States  21/03/2019  Food safety  
454 EU transitional periods for 
MRLs and international 
consultations  European Union  Colombia  Brazil; Chile; 
China; Costa 
Rica; Ecuador; 
Guatemala; 
Honduras; 
Panama; 
Paraguay; 
Peru; Turkey; 
United States  21/03/2019  Food safety  
455 Indonesia's undue delay in 
authorization procedures for 
beef  Indonesia  Brazil  Philippines  21/03/2019  Food safety  
456 Rep. of Korea's import 
restrictions on poultry due to 
Highly Pathogenic Avian 
Influenza  Korea, Republic 
of European 
Union  Russian 
Federation  21/03/2019  Animal Health  
457 EU amendments of MRLs for 
imazalil  European Union  Colombia; 
Costa Rica; 
Côte 
d'Ivoire; 
Dominican 
Republic; 
Ecuador  Brazil; 
Cameroon; 
Guatemala; 
Honduras; 
Jamaica; 
Nicaragua; 
Panama; Peru; 
Senegal; United 
States; 
Uruguay  18/07/2019  Food safety  
458 EU regulatory process for 
determining maximum levels 
of glycidyl fatty acid esters, 
3-monochloropropanediol 
(3-MCPD) and its fatty acid 
esters, in foods or food 
ingredients  European Union  Colombia  Costa Rica; 
Côte d'Ivoire; 
Ecuador; 
Guatemala; 
Honduras; 
Malaysia  18/07/2019  Food safety  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 48 - 
 
  STC Document title  Members 
maintaining 
the measure  Members 
raising the 
concern  Members 
supporting 
the concern  Date 
raised  Primary 
objective  
459 New EU MRLs for lambda -
cyhalothrin  European Union  China   
18/07/2019  Food safety  
460 China's restrictions on 
imports of US beef  China  United States   
18/07/2019  Animal Health  
461 Turkey's FMD -related import 
restrictions on live cattle  Turkey  Argentina   
18/07/2019  Animal Health  
462 Viet Nam's general 
restrictions on imports 
(melons, live cattle, beef, 
and meat and bone meal)  Viet Nam  Brazil   
18/07/2019  Other 
concerns  
463 Ukraine's restrictions on 
swine products  Ukraine  Brazil   18/07/2019  Animal Health  
464 Japan's restrictions on 
avocados  Japan  Brazil   18/07/2019  Plant Health  
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
3.56.   Twenty -three  previously -raised STCs were discussed at the November  2018, March 2019 or 
July 2019 SPS Committee meetings ( six of these were discussed in all three meetings) .42 Of these 
previously -raised STCs, 7 addressed persistent problems that have been discussed 7 times or more. 
Specifically , 3 have been discussed on 12 or more occasions ( Table  3.16). In addition, three  STCs 
raised for the f irst time in November 2018  were discussed again in March or July 201943, and one  STC 
raised for the first time in March 2019 was discussed again in July 2019.44  
Table 3.16 Previously -raised SPS STCs discussed i n November 2018, March 2019 or 
July 2019  meetings  
STC Document title  Member(s)  
maintaining 
the 
measure  Member(s) 
raising the 
concern  Members supporting 
the concern  First date 
raised  Times 
subse -
quently 
raised  Primary 
Objective  
184 China's AQSIQ official 
certification requirements 
for food imports 
(G/TBT/N/CHN/1209) 
(previously raised as Lack 
of transparency for 
certain SPS measures)  China  Israel; 
United 
States  Australia; Canada; Chile; 
Costa Rica; European 
Union; Guatemala; 
Japan; Korea, Republic 
of; Mexico; Norway; 
Singapore; Switzerland; 
Thailand  01/03/2004  7  Other 
concerns  
193* General import 
restrictions due to bovine 
spongiform 
encephalopathy (BSE)   European 
Union; 
United 
States  Canada; Switzerland; 
Uruguay  01/06/2004  36  Animal 
Health  
344 Measures on shrimp  Brazil  Ecuador   
18/10/2012  6  Animal 
Health  
382* European Union revised 
proposal for 
categorization of 
compounds as endocrine 
disruptors  European 
Union  Argentina; 
China; 
India; 
United 
States  Australia; Benin; Brazil; 
Burkina Faso; Burundi; 
Canada; Central African 
Republic; Chile; 
Colombia; Costa Rica; 
Dominican Republic; 
Ecuador; Egypt; El 
Salvador; The Gambia; 
Ghana; Guatemala; 
Guinea; Honduras; 
Indonesia; Jamaica; 
Kenya; Korea, Republic 
of; Madagascar; 
Malaysia; Mexico; New 
Zealand; Nigeria; 
Pakistan; Panama; 
Paraguay; Peru; 
Philippines; Senegal; 25/03/2014  14  Food 
safety  
 
42 The six STCs that were raised  at the three meetings are marked with an asterisk (*) beside their 
number in  Table 3.16 . 
43 These were STCs 448, 449, and 450.  
44 STC 454.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 49 - 
 
  STC Document title  Member(s)  
maintaining 
the 
measure  Member(s) 
raising the 
concern  Members supporting 
the concern  First date 
raised  Times 
subse -
quently 
raised  Primary 
Objective  
Sierra Leone; South 
Africa; Chinese Taipei; 
Thailand; Togo; 
Uruguay; Viet Nam; 
Zambia  
390* Russian Federation's 
import restrictions on 
processed fishery 
products from Estonia 
and Latvia  Russian 
Federation  European 
Union   
15/07/2015  12  Food 
safety  
395 China's proposed 
amendments to the 
implementation 
regulations on safety 
assessment of 
agricultural genetically 
modified organisms 
(GMOs)  China  Paraguay; 
United 
States   15/07/2015  9  Food 
safety  
406* China's import 
restrictions due to Highly 
Pathogenic Avian 
Influenza  China  European 
Union; 
United 
States   
16/03/2016  9  Animal 
Health  
411**  Russian Federation 
import restrictions on 
certain animal products 
from Germany  Russian 
Federation  European 
Union   
30/06/2016  7  Food 
safety  
413 Guatemala's restrictions 
on egg products  Guatemala  Mexico   27/10/2016  3  Food 
safety  
414 Indonesia's food safety 
measures affecting 
horticultural products and 
animal products  Indonesia  Philippines   27/10/2016  2  Food 
safety  
421 Thailand's import 
restriction on papaya 
seeds  Thailand  Chinese 
Taipei   22/03/2017  5  Plant 
Health  
422 France's dimethoate -
related restrictions on 
imports  European 
Union  United 
States  Argentina; Canada; 
Turkey  13/07/2017  4  Food 
safety  
427 India's fumigation 
requirements for cashew 
nuts  India Madagascar; 
Senegal  Burkina Faso; Colombia; 
Ghana; Kenya; Mali; 
Mozambique; Nigeria; 
Russian Federation; 
Togo; Ukraine; United 
States  13/07/2017  4  Plant 
Health  
430 EU maximum level of 
cadmium in foodstuffs  European 
Union  Colombia; 
Côte 
d'Ivoire; 
Ecuador; 
Madagascar; 
Peru Bolivia, Plurinational 
State of; Brazil; Costa 
Rica; Dominican 
Republic; El Salvador; 
Ghana; Guatemala; 
Indonesia; Nicaragua; 
Nigeria; Panama; 
Trinidad and Tobago; 
United States  02/11/2017  3  Food 
safety  
431* South Africa's import 
restrictions on poultry 
due to Highly Pathogenic 
Avian Influenza  South Africa  European 
Union   02/11/2017  5  Animal 
Health  
432 EU restrictions on poultry 
meat due to Salmonella 
detection  European 
Union  Brazil   02/11/2017  3  Food 
safety  
438 Viet Nam's market access 
requirements for ''white'' 
offal  Viet Nam  United 
States  New Zealand  01/03/2018  1  Other 
concerns  
439* US import restrictions on 
apples and pears  United 
States  European 
Union   01/03/2018  4  Plant 
Health  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 50 - 
 
  STC Document title  Member(s)  
maintaining 
the 
measure  Member(s) 
raising the 
concern  Members supporting 
the concern  First date 
raised  Times 
subse -
quently 
raised  Primary 
Objective  
440 New Zealand's draft 
import health standard 
for vehicles, machinery 
and equipment  New Zealand  Japan   12/07/2018  2  Plant 
Health  
441 Lack of transparency and 
undue delays in 
Indonesia's approval 
procedures for animal 
products  Indonesia  European 
Union  Brazil  12/07/2018  3  Other 
concerns  
442 EU Commission Decision 
2002/994/EC on animal 
products  European 
Union  China   12/07/2018  4  Food 
safety  
446 EU review of legislation 
on veterinary medicinal 
products  European 
Union  Argentina; 
United 
States  Australia; Brazil; 
Canada; Chile; 
Colombia; Paraguay  12/07/2018  2  Food 
safety  
447 New EU definition of the 
fungicide folpet  European 
Union  China   12/07/2018  3  Food 
safety  
* STCs raised in all three SPS Committee meetings.  
** STC reported as resolved.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.57.   Of the 17  STCs raised for the first time  in the 3 SPS Committee meetings , 8 (47%)  concerned 
food safety, 5 (29%)  concerned measures covering animal health, 1 (6%)  covered plant health , and 
3 (18%)  related to other types of concerns.45 Regarding  previously -raised STCs in the review period,  
12 (52 %) concerned measures covering food safety, 4 (17 %) concerned animal health, 4 (17%) 
related to plant health , and  3 (13%) covered other types of concerns . Of the total (40) raised or 
discussed STCs in the review period, 20 (50%)  concerned measures covering food safety , 9 (23%)  
covered animal health , 5 (13%)  concerned plant health and 6 (15%)  related to other types of 
concerns.  
3.58.   Discussions among Members in the SPS Committee co ntinue to be multifaceted and dynamic. 
They have recently included STCs related to pesticide MRLs and veterinary medicinal products 
(antimicrobial resistance), and some Members have raised issues related to the possible need to use 
such substances due to c hanges in climate conditions.  
Box 3.3 Enhancing  Monitoring and Transparency in SPS and TBT  
Accessing relevant information on SPS or TBT product requirements in export markets can represent a significant 
challeng e, in particular for SMEs. The WTO helps address this potential trade barrier through a combination of 
transparency requirements included in the SPS and TBT Agreements and online tools that make information easily 
accessible: the SPS and TBT Information Ma nagement Systems (SPS/TBT IMSs) and ePing.  
WTO Members are required to notify any proposed SPS and TBT measures that may have a significant effect on trade 
and are not in accordance with existing international standards. Each year, the WTO receives in exce ss of 3,500  such 
notifications.  
Publicly -available online tools assist stakeholders in finding notifications of relevance to their trade:  
 - SPS IMS: www.spsims.wto.org ,  
 - TBT IMS: www.tbtims.wto.org , and 
 - ePing:     www.epingalert.org . 
The SPS/TBT IMSs  are search  platforms that, among other things, help identify SPS or TBT notifications by using 
parameters such as: product, notifying Member, and objective. ePing  is an online alert system allowing users 
(governments, economic operators, and civil society) to  receiv e daily or weekly email alerts about SPS and 
TBT notifications covering products and markets of interest to them.  
Timely access to notifications is crucial , given the 60 -day period that normally should be provided for submitting 
comments on regulations, u sually still in draft  form. The ePing platform also facilitates dialogue among the public and 
private sectors to discuss and share information on notifications of concern, allowing stakeholders to address potential 
trade problems at an early stage of the r egulatory lifecycle.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
 
45 Such as  control, inspection and approval procedures , and transparency.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 51 - 
 
  3.4  Technical Barriers to Trade (TBTs)46 
3.59.   Under the TBT Agreement, WTO Members are required to notify their intention to introduce 
new or modified TBT measures, or to notify adopted emergency measures immediately. The principal 
objective of complying with the TBT notification obligations is to inform other Members about new 
or changed regulations that may  significantly affect trade.47 Therefore, an increased number of 
notifications does not necessarily i mply greater use of trade -restrictive measures. Rather, TBT 
notification obligations are meant to promote enhanced transparency regarding measures taken to 
address legitimate policy objectives, e.g. the protection of human, animal or plant life or health, or 
the environment.48 
3.60.   From 1  October  2018 to 30 September 201 9, WTO  Members submitted 2,0 77 new regular 
notifications of TBT measures.49 This represents roughly the same number of notifications submitted 
during the preceding 12 -month period.50 The majority  (around 70%) continue d to come from 
developing countries.  
3.61.   The Members which notified the most TBT measures during the review period  – covering 
almost 60 % of all new regular notifications  – were Uganda (194) , Kenya (1 60), 
the United  States  (136), Ecuador (135 ), the European  Union  (125)51, Rwanda  (103), Tanzania ( 96), 
China (85), the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, Oman, Qatar,  
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Yemen ( 84) ( collectively as Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) 
Standardi zation Organization (GSO) members)52 and the Republic of Korea  (76). 
3.62.   Of the 2,0 77 new regular TBT notifications received during the review  period, the majority 
indicated the protection of human health or safety as the ir main objective.53 The remaining 
notifications related to consumer information, labelling, the prevention of deceptive practices and 
consumer protection , and protection of the  environment . 
3.63.   A total of 1,043  "follow -up notifications"54 were submitted during the review period, 
representing an increase of about 18% as compared with those notified (883)  during the preceding 
 
46 For the TBT Section, the review period cove rs 1 October 2018 to 30 September 2019.  
47 Under the TBT Agreement, WTO Members are not required to notify all proposed TBT measures 
(technical regulations or conformity assessment procedures). Rather, as a minimum, they are only required to 
notify those me asures that may have a significant effect on trade of other Members and are not in accordance 
with a relevant international standard (in the case of technical regulations), or relevant guidelines or 
recommendations issued by international standardizing bod ies (in the case of conformity assessment 
procedures). However, the TBT  Committee, in its Sixth Triennial Review, encouraged Members, "for the 
purpose of enhancing predictability and transparency in situations where it is difficult to establish or foresee 
whether a draft technical regulation or conformity assessment procedu re may have a 'significant effect on 
trade of other Members', to notify such measures". This recommendation was reiterated by the TBT Committee 
in its Eighth, and latest, Triennial  Review  (November 2018).  
48 TBT Agreement obligations are also subject to 25 separate special and differential treatment (S&D) 
provisions, conferring developing -country Members, and LDC Members in particular, with certain flexibilities. 
The TBT  Agreement contains more S&D provisions than any other WTO agreement apart from the GATT  1994.  
49 Viewed at: http://tbtims.wto.org . 
50 From 1 October 201 7 to 30 September 201 8, the overall number of new regular notifications was 
2,092 . 
51 Eighty -two EU-wide regular notifications plus  43 notifications from certain individual EU member 
States: France ( 5); Finland (22); Germany (2); Hungary (1); Italy ( 2); Lithuania ( 2); Slovenia  (7); Spain ( 1) 
and the  United  Kingdom  (1). 
52 The GSO -GCC has ad hoc observer status at the TBT Committee.  
53 A TBT measure may  pursue a variety of legitimate objectives, although historically the majority fall 
under one of the following categories: the prote ction of human, animal or plant life or health, or the 
environment. Members are required to identify the purpose of the measure in their notifications. It is not 
uncommon that more than one objective is identified . 
54 Follow -up notifications are called "add enda", "corrigenda", or "supplements". They can also be in the 
form of "revisions" when the original measure has been substantially re -drafted prior to adoption or entry into 
force. A revision replaces the original notification. They are linked to the orig inal notification of a measure, and 
include additional pertinent information, such as the extension of a notification comment period (addenda), the 
withdrawal or revocation of a measure (addenda), when a measure is substantially redrafted prior to adoption  
or entry into force (revision), or when the adopted final text of a measure becomes available (addenda). See 
WTO document G/TBT/35 for further information on different types of TBT notifications.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 52 - 
 
  12-month  period. The continuing and frequent use by Members of this type of notification increases 
transparency and p redictability across the measures' regulatory lifecycle.  
3.64.   WTO Members use the TBT Committee as a forum for discussing trade issues related to 
specific TBT measures (technical regulations, standards or conformity assessment procedures) 
maintained by other M embers. These STCs normally relate to proposed draft measures notified to 
the TBT Committee but may also relate to  the implementation of existing  adopted  measures. Issues 
raised can range from simple requests for additional information and clarification s to more 
substantive  questions about  the consistency of measures with the TBT Agreement.  
3.65.   A total of 186 (31 new and 155 previously -raised) STCs were discussed during the 
3 Committee meetings that fell within the review period: 63 (8 new and 55 previously -raised) at the 
November  2018 meeting, 59 (11 new and 48 previously -raised) at the March  2019 meeting, and 64 
(12 new and 52 previously -raised) at the June  2019 meeting.  
3.66.   As depicted in Table  3.17, measures  by the European Union  (9), India (3), the Republic of  
Korea (3), China, Chile, Uruguay, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (2 each), attracted the majority 
of the 31 new STCs raised during the review period. They were followed by new STCs concerning 
measures by the Russian Federation, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Egypt, Israel, Trinidad and 
Tobago, Jamaica and the GSO -GCC members (one each). These new STCs covered a wi de range of 
products/issues, including cosmetics, solid waste, toys, aircraft systems, wine and wine products, 
food products, medical devices, pesticides, energy, chemicals, poultry, electronic devices and 
electrical equipment, tobacco products, spirits an d eco -design requirements.  
Table 3.17 New STCs raised in the TBT Committee  meetings of November 201 8, 
March  2019, and June 201 9 
New STCs   
European Union : Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down rules and procedures 
for compliance with and enforcement of Union harmonization legislation on products and amending relevant 
regulations (ID 565) (raised by China and Canada)  
Chile: Public Consultation for draft legislation setting out rules on the preparation, description and labelling of 
milk products deriving from milk (ID 566) (raised by European Union and United States)  
Russian Federation : Federal Law No 487 -FZ, providing  a framework for comprehensive use of special labelling 
and traceability of goods and Decision No. 792 -r specifying the goods to which labelling will apply and the dates 
of introduction of the mandatory labelling (ID 567)  (raised by European Union)  
Brazil : Technical Regulation 14, 8 February 2018, to set the additional official identity, quality standards for 
wine and derivatives of grape and wine products as well as the requirements to be acquainted and Technical 
Regulation No. 48, 31 August 2018 , publish ed in the Official Gazette on 10 September 2018 (ID 568) (raised 
by European Union)  
Dominican Republic:  Regulation on Cosmetic and Hygiene Products (ID 569) ( raised by Mexico and 
United  States ) 
Chile: Regulations on the classification, labelling and noti fication of chemical substances and mixtures (ID  570) 
(raised by Mexico)  
Egypt: Halal requirements for Poultry Parts and Offal (ID 571)  (raised by United States ) 
Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, Qatar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oman,  United Arab 
Emirates, Yemen: GCC Technical Regulations for the Restriction of  the use of certain Hazardous Substances 
in electrical and electronic equipment (572)  (raised by United States and European Union ) 
Israel: Bill on the Restriction on Advertising and Marketing of Tobacco Products (Amendment No.  7, 
5778-2018) (ID 573) ( raised by Dominican Republic and Canada ) 
Trinidad and Tobago: Regulation related to the prohibition of commercialization and importation of plastic 
products of polystyrene (ID 574)  (raised by Dominican Republic)  
European Union:  Draft Commission Regulation laying down eco -design requirements for electronic displays 
pursuant to Directive 2009/125/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, amending Commission 
Regulation (EC) No 1 275/2008 and repealing Commission Regulation (EC) 642/2009 (and its accompanying 
annexes) (ID 575) ( raised by China, United States and Japan ) 
China: Draft Cosmetics Supervision and Administration Regulation (Draft) (ID 576) ( raised by  Japan, Republic 
of Korea, United States and European Union)  
Republic of Korea: Warning statement and graphic health warnings on alcoholic beverages (ID 577) ( raised 
by United States)  
Uruguay: Labelling of Packaged Food (ID 578)  (raised by Costa Rica, United States, European  Union and 
Guatemala)  
European Union: Chlorothalonil (pesticide active substance) (ID 579)  (raised by  United States,  Colombia, 
Guatemala,  Brazil, Panama, Paraguay, Canada, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Honduras)  
European Union: Transitional periods for minimum residual limit s (MRLs)  and international consultations 
(ID 580) (raised by  Colombia, Guatemala,  United States, Paraguay, Brazil, Ecuador,  Costa Rica and Panama)  
Jamaica: Regulations Banning Single -Use Plastic Products  (ID 581) (raised by Dominican Republic)  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 53 - 
 
  New STCs   
Republic of Korea: Regulation on Energy Efficiency Management Equipment (ID 582)  (raised by China)  
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Technical Regulation for plastic products OXO – biodegradable (ID 583)  (raised by 
European Uni on and United States)  
China:  Regulation on Cosmetic Inspection in Registration and Filing  (ID 584) (raised by Japan, Republic of 
Korea and United States)  
European Union:  Explanatory memorandum of unmanned aircraft systems and third -country operators of 
unmanned aircraft  (ID 585) (raised by China)  
India:  Notification of 2018 draft cosmetic rules, amending provisions of the India Drug and Cosmetics Act of 
1940 (ID 586) (raised by United States and European Union)  
India:  Toys (Quality Control ) Order, 2019 (ID 587) (raised by United States, European Union and Canada)  
Republic of Korea:  Package Recycle Classification Regulation (ID 588 ) (raised by United States and Canada)  
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia:  Added Sugar Upper Limit in Some Food Products (ID 589) (raised by United  States, 
Switzerland, European Union and Russian Federation)  
Uruguay: Analysis of Imported Products  – Resolution of the Board of the National Grape Growing and Wine 
Production Institute (INAVI)  – exogenous water  in wine  (ID 590) (raised by United States, Chile, South  Africa, 
Australia and New Zealand)  
European Union: Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCR) (ID 591) (raised by Indonesia)  
European Union : Concerns on regulations with rega rd to eco-design re quirements for various products in EU  
(ID 592) (raised by China)  
European Union: EU regulations  on the definition, description, presentation, labelling of spirit drinks, the use 
of the names of spirit drinks in the presentation and labelling of other foodstuffs, the protection of geographical 
indications of spirit drinks, the use of ethyl alcohol and distillates of agricultural origin in alcoholic beverages, 
which repeals Regulation (EC) No. 110/2008 (ID 593)  (raised by Guyana)  
European Union:  Medical  Device Regulation (MDR) and In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices Regulation (IVDR) 
(ID 594) (raised by United States and Canada)  
India:  Moisture content for Cassia Vera (Cinnamomum Burmani) (ID 595)  (raised by Indonesia)  
Source:  WTO Secre tariat.  
3.67.   As indicated in Chart 3.15, STCs  are frequently discussed in the regular meetings of the 
TBT Committee, with almost 60 discussed per  meeting in recent years. Depending on the extent of 
the trade-restrictiveness  and the importance of the issue to the Member(s)  raising the STC, the 
same measure may come  up at one or more meetings of the TBT Committee. For example, an STC 
may be discussed at only one meeting as a new STC, and subsequently a resolution to the trade 
concern may be found. Alternatively, an STC may b e discussed at subsequent meetings, as a 
previously -raised STC. Previously -raised STCs are usually reserved for long -standing and more 
serious concerns. Since 1995, Members have raised 593 new STCs.  
Chart 3.15 STCs  raised per Committee meeting, January 2009 to June 2019  
(number)  
 
Note:  With a view to providing a more accurate image of the number of concerns discussed in the 
TBT Committee in a given year, the methodology of counti ng previously -raised STCs has been 
44354465
40515560 58 59 5947
365160
39465056 5962 6440
465535
515156576263
131
117150160
130148161173179184
123
020406080100120140160180200
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
March meeting June meeting November meetingSTCs raised per Committee meeting, January 2009 to June 2019
Source:  WTO Secretariat.Note: [See document](Number)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 54 - 
 
  revised. Previously, an STC raised in the TBT Committee in a given year was counted once, either as 
a new or as a previously -raised STC.  This method resulted in under -reporting the number of 
previously -raised STCs. The ne w methodology counts an STC each time it is raised: if raised for the 
first time, it is counted as a new STC, and if it is raised again, it is counted as a previously -raised 
STC.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.68.   Overall, the number of STCs ( new and previously -raised) discussed in Committee meetings  
has been increasing every year, despite Members raising fewer new STCs. This may , in part , be 
because they raised relatively more previous ly-raised  STCs in recent years. Since 200 9, Members 
have raised more than 100 STCs (new and previous ly-raised ) every year ( Chart 3.16).55 During  the 
3 Committee meetings held in 2018, 184  STCs were discussed, which represents a 136% increase 
compared to 2007, when 78 STCs were raised. Additionally, as indicated above, the total n umber of 
STCs discussed in the first 2 Committee meetings of 2019 (March and June) was 59 and 6 4, 
respectively, indicating that the total number of STCs for the 2019 may be as high as, or higher 
than, that observed in 2018. 
Chart 3.16 STCs raised per year, January 1995 to June 2019  
(number)  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
3.69.   As illustrated in Chart 3.17,  there is a marked correlation between the number of notifications 
submitted by Members and the number of STCs raised each year.56 The overall trend suggests an 
 
55 In 201 8, Members reviewed a total of 1 84 STCs, a record number. The number of new concerns, 
however, dropped to 2 2, 5 less than in 201 7. This continues the declining trend in the number of new concerns 
raised in the Committee since 2014 (47), 2015 (37), 2016 (31), 2017 (27) and 2018 (22) . Source : 
Twenty -Fourth  Annual Review of the Implementation and Operation of the TBT Agreement , WTO document 
G/TBT/4 2 (25 February  2019), para.  4.2. 
56 See Twenty -Fourth  Annual Review of the Implementation and Operation of the TBT Agreement , 
WTO document G/TBT/4 2 (25 February  2019), para.  4.17. Although data for 2019 is still incomplete, we expect 
the correlation between the final numbers of all notification and the numbe r of STCs to be consistent with the 
historical trend of the last few years, as i ndicated in Chart 3.17.  
4
6
11
13
5
13
15
20
15
14
12
24
27
32
46
29
43
35
42
47
37
31
27
22
234
6
12
12
32
20
34
22
35
20
41
51
74
85
88
107
125
88
101
124
142
152
162
1004
10
17
25
17
45
35
54
37
49
32
65
78
106
131
117
150
160
130
148
161
173
179
184
123
020406080100120140160180200
New STCs Previously raised STCsSTCs raised per year, January 1995 to June 2019
(Number)
Source:  WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 55 - 
 
  increasing use of the TBT Committee as a forum for Members to raise and resolve trade concerns 
non-litigiously.  
3.70.   As mentioned, STCs may be discussed at subsequent meetings, as previously -raised STCs, 
and usually represent more serious concerns. The majority of STCs (5 7%) have been raised at one 
or two Committee meetings, 24% were raised three to five times, and 19% were raised more than 
five times (Chart 3.18).  The share of "persistent"  STCs, i.e.  those raised more than five  times, 
decreased in 201 8 in comparison with 201 7.  
Chart 3.17 Number of TBT n otifications  and new/previously -raised STCs, 1995 -2019  
(number)  
 
Note:  2019 data cover the period from  January  to September.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Chart 3.18 Number  of times an STC is raised, 1995 -2018 (plus 2019, until September 
only)  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
020406080100120140160180200
05001,0001,5002,0002,5003,0003,500
All Notifications New and previously-raised STCsNotifications and new/previously -raised STCs, 1995 -2019
(Number)
Source:  WTO Secretariat.Notes:  [See document]
1-2 Meetings
57%
3-5 Meetings
24%>5 Meetings
19%STCs raised in the TBT Committee, 1995 -2018
Source: WTO Secretariat.(Number of times raised)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 56 - 
 
  3.71.   During the review period, which includes STCs raised in the TBT  Committee meeting in 
November 2018, and in March and June 2019 , seven  persistent  STCs that w ere raised more than 
16 times in TBT Committee meetings, were discussed (Table  3.18).  
Table 3.18 Persistent STCs raised between 1 October 2018 and 30 September 2019  
Persistent STCs  
India:  New Telecommunications related Rules (Department of Telecommunications, No. 842 -725/2005 -
VAS/Vol.III (3 December 2009); No. 10-15/2009 -AS-III/193 (18 March 2010); and Nos. 10 -15/2009 -
AS.III/Vol.II/(Pt.)/(25 -29) (28 July 2010); Department of Telecommunications, No. 10 -15/2009 -
AS.III/Vol.II/(Pt.)/(30) (28 July 2010) and accompanying template, "Security and Business Continuity 
Agreement") (ID 274)  – raised 26 times  since 20 10 
China:  Requirements for information security products, including, inter alia , the Office of State Commercial 
Cryptography Administration (OSCCA) 1999 Regulation on commercial encryption products and its ongoing 
revision and the Multi -Level Protection Scheme (MLPS) (ID 294 ) – raised 25 times  since 201 1 
Indonesia : Technical Guidelines for the Implementation of the Adoption and Supervision of Indonesian 
National Standards for Obligatory Toy Safety (ID 328) – raised 22 times  since 2011 
Russian Federation : Draft Technical Regulation on Alcohol Drinks Safety (published on 24  October  2011) 
(ID 332) – raised 22 times  since 201 2 
European Union : Draft Implementing Regulations amending Regulation (EC) No. 607/2009 laying down 
detailed rules for the application of Council Regulation (EC) No 479/2008 as regards protected designations 
of origin and geographical indications, traditional terms, labelling and presentation of certain wine sector 
products (ID 345)  – raised 20 times  since 201 2 
India : Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 
2012 (ID 367)  – raised 19 times  since 201 3 
European Union : Hazard -based approach to plant protection products and setting of import tolerances 
(ID 393) – raised 18 times  since 201 3 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.72.   The TBT Committee has been busy implementing its 2019 -21 Workplan. The new 
Workplan  involves implementing 30 newly adopted recommendations intended to pave the way  for 
WTO Members to further reduce technical barriers to trade. The number of recommendations shows 
that Members continue to engage constructively in the TBT Committee in order to achieve concrete 
outcomes. Ongoing implementation items include: a recommend ation for Members to notify adopted 
final texts of regulations; and a mandate to develop guidelines on the choice and design of 
appropriate "conformity assessment procedures" (CAPs). The Committee's process of facilitating 
Members raising and discussing co ncerns (STCs) with each other's regulations remains in high 
demand, suggesting that Members find it very effective to address regulatory trade frictions without 
having to resort to formal disputes. Discussions and/or notifications of regulations on new com plex 
digital economy issues  – such as cybersecurity, drones, 5G, internet -of-things (IoT), blockchain – 
are becoming increasingly prevalent. WTO Members have also agreed to explore new TBT Committee 
procedures. In particular, Members agreed in 2018 to put into operation on a trial basis new 
procedures for raising STCs, so as to give them more time to prepare for meetings. As part of the 
ongoing 2019 -21 TBT Committee Workplan, these new procedures were then made permanent, after 
being successfully tested.  
3.73.   Fish and fishery products are among the most heavily traded commodities. These products 
are subject to various non -tariff measures, including TBT regulations. Box 3.4 takes  a closer look at 
these types of measures as notified to, and discussed in, the TBT Committee over the years.  
Box 3.4 Regulations on fish and fish products and the TBT Agreement  
Fish and fish products (Harmonize d System headings 1604, 1605, 2301 and Chapter 3) are among the most 
heavily traded commodities in the world. They provide food, jobs, and economic benefits for millions of people 
globally .a They are considered important for achieving Sustainable Developme nt Goal 14 of the 2030 Agenda 
for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals.  
Global fish production in 2019 is expected to reach 177.8 million tonnes, almost the same production level 
observed in 2018.b The European Union was the world' s largest exporter of fish and fish products in 2018, 
with USD 35.8 billion of exports. The other top exporters were: China (USD 21.5 billion), Norway 
(USD 11.8 billion), Viet Nam (USD 8.9 billion), and India (USD 6.9 billion). The European Union was also the 
world's largest importer of fish and fishery products in 2018 (USD 57.7 billion), followed by the United States 
(USD 23.8 billion); Japan (USD 15.3 billion); China (USD 14.4 billion) and the Republic of Korea 
(USD 5.9 billion).  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 57 - 
 
  Fish and fish products a re subject to various non -tariff measures, including regulations falling under both the 
TBT and SPS Agreements. In terms of TBT measures, from January 1995 to September 2019, WTO Members 
notified almost 1,000 regulations related to fish and fish products.d The most commonly stated policy objective 
of these TBT measures is the protection of human health and safety. Other frequently stated objectives include 
the prevention of deceptive practices and consumer protection, as well as consumer information and lab elling.  
To date, WTO Members have discussed at least ten STCs regarding measures regulating fish and fish products. 
These measures were maintained by the European Union (2), Japan, the United States, the Republic of Korea, 
Brazil, Peru, China, and the GCC  GSO members (one each), and covered the following products: fishing 
vessels, tuna, sardines, and fish heads (e.g. hake, cod and pollack). The policy objectives indicated were the 
prevention of deceptive practices and consumer protection; and consumer info rmation and labelling 
(see Table  A). 
Table A – TBT STCs on fish and fish products  
Member  TBT STCs: Fish and fish products  
Japan  Legislation on Fishing Vessels (ID 37) – raised for the first time on 11  June 1999 by the United  States; 
European Union  
United States  Dolphin -Safe Tuna Labelling Requirement (ID 42)  – raised for the first time on 25  February  2000 by 
Brazil; Mexico; Egypt  
European Union  Amendment to Regulation on Sardines (ID 87) – raised for the first time on 20  March  2003 by Canada; 
Chile; Ecuador; Mexico; Norway; Peru; United  States; Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of  
Korea, Republic of  Fish Heads (ID 96) – raised for the first time on 2 July 2003 by Iceland; New Zealand; Norway; 
European Union  
Brazil  Canned Sardines – Ministerial Act No. 406, 10 August 2010 (ID 290)  – raised for the first time on 24 
March 2011 by Norway; Peru; European Union  
Peru  Act to Promote Healthy Eating Among Children and Adolescents (ID 383) – raised for the first time on 
17 June 2013 by Argentina; Brazil; Canada; Colombia; Costa Rica; Guatemala; Mexico; Switzerland; 
United States; European Union  
South Africa  Labelling and advertising of pre -packaged foodstuff (ID 446) – raised for the first time on 5  November 
2014 by New Zealand; European Union  
European Union  Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Cloning of Animals of 
the bovine, porcine, ovine, caprine and equine species kept and reproduced for farming purposes 
(197) and Proposal for a Council Directive on the placing on  the market of food from animal clones 
(198), G/TBT/N/EU/197 and G/TBT/N/EU/198 (ID 492) – raised for the first time on 4 November 2015 
by Brazil; United States  
Oman, Kingdom of 
Bahrain, the State 
of Kuwait, Qatar, 
Kingdom of Saudi 
Arabia, United 
Arab Emi rates, 
Yemen  Guide for control of imported foods – Certification requirements for animal products (ID 540) – raised 
for the first time on 14 June 2017 by United  States; European Union  
China  Certification requirements for processed foods (ID 547) – raised for the first time on 8  November  2017 
by European Union; United States; Guatemala; Singapore; Chinese Taipei; Japan; Korea, Republic of; 
Switzerland; Mexico  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Eight disputes have been brought to the WTO where a significant part of the panel's and/or Appellate  Body's 
findings related to the TBT Agreement. T wo of these involved regulations related to fish and fish products: 
EC – Sardines (complaint by Peru) and US – Tuna II (complaint by Mexico).e Both disputes concerned 
measures on the marking, packaging or labelling of these products. Although not regulating fish or fish 
products per se, the objective of the measure at issue in EC – Seal Products  (separate compla ints by Canada 
and Norway) was to address "public moral concerns regarding seal welfare" regarding products made from 
these animals. The measure contained certain exceptions, accommodating "other  interests", including one for 
products obtained from seals h unted for purposes of marine resource management  (the MRM exception). The 
MRM exception took into account the fact that small -scale hunts were conducted on an occasional basis for 
the purpose of ensuring the reduction of the seal population because, accord ing to scientific studies, this could, 
in a particular area, pose a threat to fisheries and/or the ecosystem.f 
Two other disputes involved claims that certain measures on fish or fish products were inconsistent with the 
TBT Agreement, namely the US – Impor t Prohibition of Certain Shrimp and Shrimp Products (complaint by 
the Philippines), which, however, never proceeded beyond formal consultationsg; and EC  – Scallops (separate 
complaints by Canada, Peru and Chile) , which proceeded to litigation but was then settled amicably during 
panel proceedings .h  
a FAO. 2019, GlobeFish Highlights: A Quarterly Update on Seafood Markets. Viewed at: 
 http://www.fao.org/3/ca5870en/ca5870en.pdf . 
b FAO. 2019, Food Outlook – Biannual Report on Global Food Markets: May 2019. Rome. License: CC BY -NC-SA 3.0 
 IGO. 
c Import and export data were sourced from the ITC T rade Map and UNSD Comtrade database. Data for the 
European Union include EU intra -trade.  
d TBT notifications are included when the text mentions fish, molluscs, crustaceans, cod, tuna, squid, shrimp, 
 lobsters, sardines, mackerel, shellfish, cuttlefish, milk fish, salmon, tilapia, dolphins, cephalopods, pangasius, 
 pelagics, fish oil, fish meal,  bivalves and crabs. Revisions, supplements, and addenda to the notifications are not 
 counted.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 58 - 
 
  e See https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/dispu_e/cases_e/ds381_e.htm . 
f See h ttps://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/dispu_e/cases_e/ds400_e.htm and 
 https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/dispu_e/cases_e/ds401_e.htm . This measure (and related ones by 
 certain individual EU member States) were also the object of STCs raised and discussed in the TBT  Committee. See 
 European Communities – Seal products (TBT STCs ID 222); Germany – Ban on Seal Products (TBT STC ID 188); 
 and Belgium and The Netherlands – Seal pr oducts (TBT STC ID 112).  
g See https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/dispu_e/cases_e/ds61_e.htm .  
h See https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/dispu_e/cases_e/ds7_e.htm ; 
 https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/dispu_e/cases_e/ds12_e.htm ; and 
 https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/dispu_e/cases_e/ds14_e.htm . 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.74.   The below Box on standards and certification has been provided by the ITC.  
Box 3.5 Climbing the ladder of standards to access global markets  
The ability of MSMEs to meet international standards can mean the difference for a firm to access or not a 
new market. Being able to diversify into new markets can creat e greater growth and job prospects while 
supporting innovation. Particular attention is warranted into the conditions under which this may or may not 
happen.a 
A wealth of evidence suggests that the adoption of standards can be challenging for businesses in  developing 
countries, especially for smaller firms.b Adopting standards may increase sales in foreign markets, but the 
fixed costs associated with certification can be particularly onerous for smaller companies.c Not surprisingly, 
evidence shows that larg e firms are more likely to adopt international standards than small onesd but there is 
relatively little knowledge about how this tendency differs across types of standards. This knowledge gap – if 
crossed – can better inform governments and international agencies on how to tailor trade -related capacity 
building for MSMEs, to help them meet these standards.  
Analysis of data from almost 1,000 firms in Kenya shows that the prevalence of different types of certification 
varies among companies of different siz es. Although larger firms are more likely to be certified to an 
international standard in general, it depends on the type of certification. Large companies, with 100 employees 
or more, and medium ones, with at least 20 employees, appear to have a different  pattern of certification 
than small companies and micro -sized ones, with less than five employees.  
Figure A Larger businesses are more likely to be certified  
 
Note:   The survey question was: "Does this establishment 's main product or service hold any of the following types 
of internationally -recognized certificates? Safety certificate; quality or performance certificate; sustainability 
certificate ". Source: 896 Kenyan firms interviewed in 2017 and 2018 for the SME Competitiveness Survey 
by the Kenya Na tional Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the International Trade Centre, and the Kenyan 
Ministry of Industry, Trade and Cooperatives. For more information, please see 
http://www. intracen.org/publication/SME -competitiveness -Kenya . 
Source:   ITC. 
91%
83%
67%
61%76%
64%
44%
35%65%61%
41%
32%45%
30%
13%10%
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Large Medium Small Micro
Hold any certification Quality Safety SustainabilityWT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 59 - 
 
  International safety certification appears to be relatively inclusive, with 32% of micro -sized firms and 41% of 
small firms adhering. At the other extreme, just 10% and 13% of micro and smal l firms, respectively, held a 
sustainability certificate. Safety standards were also more egalitarian than sustainability schemes: large firms 
had double the rate of international safety certification compared to micro firms, but more than four times the 
rate of sustainability certification. Certification to international quality standards was the most popular across 
all firm sizes, but there were still moderate differences in the rates of adoption of micro, small, medium and 
large firms. One third of inter viewed companies with less than five employees held an international quality 
standard, which amounts to less than half the average rate of quality certification among large companies.  
These findings can be partly explained by the fact that small and micro firms are more likely to be certified to 
just one standard and that, when a firm holds just one international certification, it is more likely to focus on 
quality. Indeed, quality standards accounted for the largest share of single certified firms of  all sizes. A lower, 
but still significant share of single -adopters held safety certificates.e It appears that smaller firms tend to opt 
for quality certificates to enter foreign markets, while larger ones opt for sustainability schemes. Certificates 
for social, environmental and economic performance are often adopted by large firms, in addition to the quality 
and safety standards they already have. Indeed, 24% of the total number of international certificates held by 
surveyed large firms regard sustainabil ity standards, while only 13% of small firms' total number of certificates 
relate to sustainability schemes.  
This is the case even though small firms express awareness of, and concern for, environmental sustainability. 
In Botswana, 63% of the almost 550 sm all and micro -sized firms interviewed for ITC's SME Competitiveness 
survey felt that environmental risks were significant for their business, and 36% were investing to reduce 
their environmental footprint.  Taken together, these findings suggest that small  companies tend to start using 
standards to leverage entry into foreign markets with an international quality standard, such as those offered 
by the ISO. They may then, as they grow, add on an international safety standard, such as those defined by 
Codex, the IPPC, or the OIE, or adopted in national legislation. Sustainability schemes appear to be adopted 
at a higher rung on the standards "ladder", often when the firm has grown to 20 or more employees.g 
The implication is that companies may turn to sustaina bility certification only once quality standards have 
been met. This raises questions concerning the accessibility of sustainability certification for smaller firms, 
including the small -scale farmers that are considering the adoption of sustainability stan dards for bananas, 
cocoa, coffee and cotton.h It suggests that helping smaller firms obtain quality and/or safety certification can 
be a necessary first step in enabling them to take advantage of the increasing demand for sustainable products 
in key market s.i 
Technical assistance for the adoption of ISO and other technical standards can build small firms ' capacity to 
keep records and manage changes in production procedures. The skills and expertise gained through this 
process can be instrumental to success in choosing, adopting and benefitting from sustainability standards. 
The International Trade Centre 's Standards Mapj is designed to help enterprises with this process, providing 
information and enterprise tools on over 150 sustainability standards, codes o f conduct and audit protocols.  
a ITC. (2017) SME Competitiveness Outlook 2016: Meeting the standard for trade. Geneva.  
b Factors Affecting the Incidence and Intensity of Standards Certification: Evidence from Exporting Firms in Pakistan. 
Masakure, Henson, Cranfield. 2011. Applied Economics.  
c World Bank. (2005). Food Safety and Agricultural Health Standards: Challenges and Opportunities for Developing 
Country Exports (No. 31207). Washington DC: World Bank. Viewed at: 
http://siteresources.worldbank.org/INTRANETTRADE/Resources/Topics/Standards/standards_challenges_synthesisr
eport.pdf . 
d Hudson, J. and Orviska, M. (2013) F irms' adoption of international standards: One size fits all? Journal of Policy 
Modeling 35(2): 289 -306. 
e Interviewed manufacturing companies who held just one international standard were less likely to have chosen 
safety schemes than their peers in the s ervices and agricultural sectors. Just 22% of single -certified manufacturing 
companies were safety certified, compared to 38% and 44% of agricultural and services firms, respectively.  
f ITC. (2019) Promoting SME Competitiveness in Botswana: a bottom up app roach to economic diversification.  
g Van Beuningen, C. and Knorringa, P. (2009). Inclusive Improvement: Standards and Smallholders. The Hague: ISS 
& HIVOS.  
h Willer, H., Sampson, G., Voora, V., Dang, D., and Lernoud, J. (2019) The State of Sustainable Mar kets 2019 – 
Statistics and Emerging Trends. Geneva: International Trade Centre.  
i ITC and EC. 2019. The European Union Market for Sustainable Products: The retail perspective on sourcing policies 
and consumer demand. Geneva: International Trade Centre and European Commission.  
j Viewed at: www.standardsmap.org . 
Source:  ITC. WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 60 - 
 
  3.5  Trade Concerns Raised in Other WTO Bodies57 
3.75.   During the review period, several  trade concerns were raised by Members in formal meetings 
of various WTO bodies. This Section provides a factual overview of those  raised between 
mid-October  2018 and mid -October 2019 .58 The trade concerns covered in this Section have neither 
the status nor the procedural framework of the STCs raised in the SPS and TBT Committees. 
Nevertheless, they provide an interesting and up -to-date insight into which trade issues are being 
discussed by Members across the WTO and, as such, add to overall  transparency. This Section does 
not reproduce the full substantive description of the trade concerns outlined by WTO Members, but 
provides a reference to the formal meeting(s) where a n issue featured. A full account and context 
of the concerns is provided in the formal meeting records of the respective WTO bodies. The list of 
concerns and issues mentioned in this Section is not exhaustiv e. 
3.76.   At the 7 May 2019 meeting of the General Council  (GC)59, concerns  were raised on: (i) the 
EU safeguard measures on Indica rice from Cambodia (raised by Cambodia); (ii) China's SPS 
agriculture issues, including Canola trade (raised by Canada); and (iii) Brazil's trade -restrictive 
measures, relat ing to Brazil's market acc ess for Ecuador's bananas (raised by Ecuador).  
3.77.   At the 23 -24 July 2019 GC meeting60, issues  were raised on: (i) Japan's export restrictive 
measures (raised by Korea, Republic of); and (ii) the US Trade Restrictive Measures on the 
ICT industry (raised by Chin a under Other Business).  
3.78.   At the meeting of the Council for Trade in Goods  (CTG) on 12 and 13 November 201861, new 
concerns were raised on (i) the EU renegotiation of tariff -rate quota commitments in response to 
Brexit (raised by Argentina, Australia, Brazil , Canada, China, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, 
Chinese  Taipei, Thailand, United States, and Uruguay); (ii) the EU enlargement to include Croatia 
(raised by Russian Federation); (iii) the US export restrictions on a certain enterprise s of China 
(raised by Chi na); (iv) the EU draft implementing regulations regarding protected designations of 
origin and GIs, traditional terms, labelling and presentation of certain wine products (raised by 
Argentina and United States); and (v) Australia's market access prohibitio n on 5G equipment (raised 
by China).  
3.79.   At the meeting, concerns were again raised on: (i) Brazil's measures restricting shrimp 
imports (raised by Ecuador); (ii) a selective tax by Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Bahrain, 
and United  Arab Emirates on certa in imported products (raised by European Union, Switzerland, and 
United States); (iii) Indonesia's import and export policies (raised by European  Union, Japan, and 
Norway); (iv) US measures relating to imports of fish and seafood products (raised by China) ; 
(v) India's customs duties on ICT products (raised by Canada, China, European Union, Japan, 
Norway, Chinese Taipei, and United States); (vi) Pakistan's measures relating to sugar exports 
(raised by Australia and European Union); (vii) India's measures re lating to sugar exports (raised 
by Australia and European Union); (viii) the EU quality schemes for agricultural products and 
foodstuffs, and the registration of the term "Danbo" as a geographical indication (raised by 
United  States and Uruguay); (ix) Egyp t's manufacturer registration system (raised by 
European  Union); (x) Mongolia's quantitative restrictions and prohibitions on the importation of 
certain agricultural products (raised by Russian Federation) ; (xi) Viet Nam's Decree No. 116/2018 
on the regulation regarding conditions for automobile manufacturing, assembling, importing, and 
automotive warranty and maintenance (raised by Japan and United States); (xii) China's measures 
restricting the import of scrap materials (raised by United States); (x iii) India's quantitative 
restrictions on imports of certain pulses (raised by Australia, Canada, European Union, 
Russian  Federation, and United  States); (xiv)  China's customs duties on certain integrated circuits 
(raised by European Union, Japan, and Chin ese Taipei); (xv) China's draft new export control law 
(raised by Japan); (xvi)  the US proposal on prohibiting the use of universal service support on 
equipment or services from companies that pose national security threats released by the US Federal 
 
57 This Section does not include the SPS and TBT Committees (covered separately). Issues raised in this 
Section may subsequently have become the subject of a dispute. The numerous questions and concerns raised 
in the Committee on Agriculture are briefly presented in this Section and in detail in Section 3.6 of this Report.  
58 Members and Observers are encouraged to communicate to the Trade Monitoring Sectio n of the 
WTO's Trade Policy Review Division trade issues which they have raised in WTO bodies and which they believe 
are relevant to the monitoring exercise.  
59 WTO document WT/GC/M/177.  
60 WTO document WT/GC/M/179.  
61 WTO document  G/C/M/133.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 61 - 
 
  Commu nications Commission (FCC) (raised by China); (xvii) the US civil aviation security measures 
(raised by China); and (xviii) the Russian  Federation's trade -restricting practices (raised by 
European Union).  
3.80.   At the CTG meeting on 11 and 12 April 201962, new issues were raised on: (i) the EU safeguard 
measures on Indica rice from Cambodia (raised by Cambodia); (ii) EU regulation EC No. 1272/2008 
concerning the update of the classification, labelling and packaging of chemical substance mixtures 
(raised by Russian  Federation); (iii) Jamaica's Regulations  145 and 146  banning single -use plastic 
products (raised by Dominican Republic); and (iv) Trinidad and Tobago's a nnouncement concerning 
the ban on the marketing and importation of polystyrene plastics (raised by Dom inican Republic).  
3.81.   At the same meeting , trade concerns were repeated on : (i) the EU enlargement to include 
Croatia (raised by Russian Federation); (ii) the selective tax on certain imported products by the 
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom of Bahrain, a nd the United  Arab Emirates (raised by 
European  Union, Switzerland, and United States); (iii)  Indonesia's import and export policies (raised 
by European Union, Japan, Norway and United  States); (iv)  India's customs duties on ICT products 
(raised by Canada,  China, European  Union, Japan, Norway, Chinese  Taipei, and United States); 
(v) the EU quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs , and the registration of certain 
terms of cheese as geographical indications (raised by Argentina, Uruguay, and U nited States); 
(vi) Egypt's manufacturer registration system (raised by European  Union); (vii) Mongolia's 
quantitative restrictions and prohibitions on the importation of certain agricultural products (raised 
by Russian Federation); (viii) Viet Nam's Decre e No. 116/2018 on the regulation regarding  conditions 
for automobile manufacturing, assembling, importing, and automotive warranty and maintenance 
(raised by United States); (ix) China's measures restricting the import of scrap materials (raised by 
United  States); (x) India's quantitative restrictions on imports of certain pulses (raised by Australia, 
Canada, Europ ean Union, Russian Federation, and United States) ; (xi) China's customs duties on 
certain integrated circuits (raised by European Union, Japan, a nd Chinese Taipei); (xii) the EU draft 
implementing regulations regarding protected designations of origin and geographical indications, 
traditional terms, labelling and presentation of certain wine sector products (raised by Argentina and 
United  States); (xiii) China's new draft export control law (raised by Japan); (xiv) the US proposal 
on prohibiting the use of universal service support on equipment or services from companies that 
pose national security threats released by the US Federal Communications C ommission (FCC)  (raised 
by China); (xv) Australia's discriminatory market access prohibition on 5G equipment (raised by 
China); (xvi)  the US measures on aviation security equipment (raised by China); (xvii) the 
Russian  Federation 's trade-restricting practi ces (raised by European Union); (xviii) the EU (Croatia) 
regulation of import and sale of certain oil products (raised by Russian Federation) ; and (xix) the EU 
amendments to Directive 2009/28/EC on renewable energy directive (raised by Malaysia and 
Colombia).  
3.82.   At the CTG meeting on 8 and 9 July 201963, new issues  were raised on: (i) the EU 
implementation of non-tariff barriers on agricultural products (raised by Australia, Brazil, Canada, 
Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Malaysia, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, 
United  States, and Uruguay); (ii) the US m easures regarding market access prohibition for ICT 
products (raised by China); (iii)  the US export control measures for ICT  products (raised by China); 
(iv) the EU m edical device regulation and in vitro diagnostic medical devices regulation (raised by 
United States); (v) Tunisia's  import restriction measures (raised by European Union); (v i) Angola's 
import restricting practices (raised by United States); (vii) Japan's e xport control measures on 
materials essential for semiconductors and displays ( raised by Korea, Republic of  under "Other 
Business") . 
3.83.   At the meeting, concerns were again raised on: (i) the EU enlargement to include Croatia 
(raised by Russian Federation); (ii) the selective tax on certain imported products by the Kingdom 
of Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom of Bahrain, Oman, and the United  Arab Emirates (raised by 
Switzerland); (iii) Indonesia's import and export policies (raised by European Union, Brazil, 
Chinese  Taipei, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Russian Federation, Thailand  and United  States); 
(iv) India's customs duties on ICT products (raise d by Australia ; Canada; China; Japan;  
Korea,  Republic of; New Zealand;  Norway;  Singapore;  Switzerland;  Chinese  Taipei ; Thailand;  and 
United  States ); (v) the EU quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs, and the 
registration of certain terms of cheese as geographical indications (raised by Argentina, Uruguay, 
 
62 WTO document G /C/M/134.  
63 WTO document G/C/M/135.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 62 - 
 
  and United  States); (vi) Egypt's manufacturer registration system (raised by European  Union); 
(vii) Mongolia's quantitative restrictions and prohibitions on the importation of certain agr icultural 
products (raised by Russian Federation); (viii) Viet Nam's Decree No. 116/2018 on the regulation 
regarding conditions for automobile manufacturing, assembling, importing, and automotive warranty 
and maintenance (raised by United States); (ix) Chi na's measures restricting the import of scrap 
materials (raised by United States); (x) India's quantitative restrictions on imports of certain pulses 
(raised by Australia, Canada, European Union, Russian Federation, and United States) ; (xi) China's 
customs  duties on certain integrated circuits (raised by European Union, Japan, and Chinese Taipei); 
(xii) the EU draft implementing regulations regarding protected designations of origin and 
geographical indications, traditional terms, labelling and presentation  of certain wine sector products 
(raised by Argentina, Brazil  and United  States); (xiii) China's new draft export control law (raised 
by Japan);  (xiv) the US prohibitive proposal on communication equipment or services released by 
the US FCC  (raised by China); (xv) Australia's discriminatory market access prohibition on 
5G equipment (raised by China); (xvi) EU Regulation 1272/2008 on classification, labelling and  
packaging (raised by Russian Federation); (xvii) the US measures on aviation security equipment 
(raised by China); (xviii) the Russian  Federation trade -restricting practices (raised by 
European  Union); (xix) the EU (Croatia) regulation of import and sale of certain oil products (raised 
by Russian Federation) ; and (xx) the EU amendments to Directive 2009/28/EC on renewable energy 
(raised by Malaysia and Colombia).  
3.84.   At the 28 May 2019 meeting of the Committee on Market Access  (CMA)64, new and persistent 
trade concerns were raised on: (i) Australia's market access prohibition on 5G equipment (raised by 
China); (ii) China's custom duties on certain integrated circuits (raised by European Union, Japan 
and Chinese Taipei); (ii i) the EU enlargement negotiations unde r Article XXIV:6 of the GATT 1994 
to include Croatia (raised by Russian Federation); ( iv) the EU renegotiations of tariff rate quotas 
under Article XXVIII of the GATT 1994 (raised by Russian Federation); (v) the rectifications and 
modifications of the Unit ed Kingdom's Schedule XIX (raised by Russian Federation); (v i) India's 
customs duties on telecommunication and other products (raised by Canada, China, Norway, 
Chinese  Taipei and United States); (vi i) India's quantitative restrictions on certain pulses (ra ised by 
Australia, Canada, European Union and United States); (viii) Indonesia's customs duties on 
telecommunication products (raised by United States); (ix) Jamaica's Regulations Nos. 145 And 146 
banning single -use plastic products (raised by Dominican Re public); (x) the selective tax on certain 
imported products, imposed by the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the 
United  Arab Emirates (raised by European Union , United States and Switzerland); (xi) Mongolia's 
quantitative restrictions on  the importation of certain agricultural products (raised by 
Russian  Federation); (xii) US measures regarding export control and market access prohibitions for 
ICT products (raised by China); and (xiii) Pakistan's import control order (raised by Thailand).   
3.85.   At the meeting of the Committee of Participants on the Expansion of Trade in Information 
Technology Products  on 14 May 201965, new and previously repeated trade issues  were raised on: 
(i) India's continued tariff increases for certain ICT products66 (raised by Canada, China, Japan, 
Republic of Korea, Norway, Chinese Taipei and United States); (ii) China's new tariffs concerning 
multi-component integrated circuits (raised  by European Union, Japan and Chinese Taipei); and 
(iii) Indonesia's tariffs on certain ICT products which appeared inconsistent with its bound 
commitments (raised by United States).  
3.86.   At the meeting of the Committee on Import Licensing  (CIL) on 22 October 2 01867, new and 
persistent trade concerns were raised on: (i) Indonesia's import licensing regime for cell phones, 
handheld computers and tablets (raised by United States); (ii) Indonesia's import requirements 
related to milk supply and circulation (raised b y European Union and United States); (iii) India's 
import licensing requirements for boric acid (raised by United States); (iv) India's import 
requirements on certain pulses (raised by Australia, Canada and European Union); (v) Viet Nam's 
import licensing for cyber security products (raised by the United States ); (vi) China's changes to 
import licensing for solid waste and certain recoverable materials (raised by United States); 
(vii) Thailand's import procedures on feed wheat (raised by European Union); (v iii) Brazil's import 
 
64 WTO document G/MA/M/70.  
65 WTO document  G/IT/M/70 . 
66 In April 2019 , the European Union requested DS consultations with India  on its continued tariff 
increases for certain ICT products. Subsequently, Japan and Chinese Taipei also requested DS consultations 
with India.  
67 WTO document  G/LIC/M/48 . WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 63 - 
 
  licensing on industrial nitrocellulose (raised by European Union); and (ix) the Russian Federation's 
import procedures for specified medicines and pharmaceutical products, i.e. the Good Manufacturing 
Practice certificate requirements ( raised by European Union).  
3.87.   At the 4 April 201968 CIL meeting, new trade concerns were raised on: (i) Tunisia's 
import -restrictive measures of 28 November 2018 and use of non -automatic licences (raised by 
European  Union); (ii) Dominican Republic's import lic ensing permits for agricultural products (raised 
by United  States); and (iii) Ghana's import procedures and permits for poultry (raised by United 
States). Persistent trade concerns were reiterated on: (i) Indonesia's import licensing regime for cell 
phones , handheld computers and tablets (raised by United States); (ii) India's import licensing 
requirements on boric acid (raised by United States); (iii) Viet Nam's import licensing for cyber 
security products (raised by United States); (iv) China's changes to  import licensing for solid waste 
and certain recoverable materials (raised by United States); (v) Thailand's import procedures on 
feed wheat (raised by European Union); and (vi)  Brazil's import licensing on industrial nitrocellulose 
(raised by European Un ion). 
3.88.   At the 4 October 201969 CIL meeting, new and persistent trade concerns were raised  on: 
(i) Brazil's import licensing on industrial nitrocellulose (raised by European Union); (i i) China's 
changes to import licensing for solid waste and certain recovera ble materials (raised by United 
States);  (iii) Ghana's import procedures and permits for poultry (raised by United States) ; 
(iv) India's import licensing requirements on boric acid (raised by United States);  (v) Indonesia's 
import licensing regime for cell phones, handheld computers and tablets (raised by United States);  
(vi) Myanmar's import licensing requirements for agricultural products  (raised by United States); 
and (vii) Thailand's import procedures on feed wheat (raised by European Union).  
3.89.   At the meeting of the Committee on Customs Valuation on 19 November 201870, a new 
concern was raised on Tajikistan's customs valuation procedures and practices (raised by Ukraine). 
At the same meeting , concerns were repeated on: (i) Pakistan's determination  of the customs value 
of paper (raised by Thailand); (ii) Indonesia's status of PSI notifications (raised by United States); 
and (iii) Egypt's status of PSI notifications (raised by United States) . Moreover, two previously raised 
trade issues  were removed from the agenda , following resolution between the concerned Members , 
regarding (i) Armenia's alleged use of reference prices (raised by United States); and (ii)  Oman's 
Customs valuation of cigarettes and introduction of the selective tax (raised by Switzer land).  
3.90.   At the 23 May 2019 meeting of the Customs Valuation Committee71, concerns were repeated 
on: (i) Pakistan's determination of the customs value of paper (raised by Thailand); and 
(ii) Tajikistan's customs valuation procedures and practices (raised by Ukraine) .  
3.91.   At the meetings of the Committee on Agriculture (CoA)72 on 26 -27 November  2018, 
26-27 February 2019 and 25 -26 June 2019 , several questions and concerns were raised with respect 
to Members' individual notifications, and on implementatio n-related matters under Article  18.6. 
During the period concerned, a total of 390 questions were discussed, on individual notifications 
(229 questions), Article 18.6 matters (141 questions on 71  implementation -related matters ), 
overdue notifications (19 qu estions), and counternotifications (1 question). Additional details 
regarding these questions and concerns can be found in Section 3.6 of this Report.  
3.92.   At the meetings of the Committee on Anti -Dumping Practices (ADP)73 on 24 October  2018 
and 1  May 2019, issues  were raised as per Table 3.1 9. 
 
68 WTO document  G/LIC/M/49.  
69 WTO document  G/LIC/M/ 50 (forthcoming).  
70 WTO document  G/VAL/M/67 . 
71 WTO document  G/VAL/M/6 8. 
72 Questions and responses to the issues raised u nder the review process in the CoA meetings on 
26-27 November 2018, 26 -27 February and 25 -26 June 2019 are available in G/AG/W/191, issued on 
18 December 2018, G/AG/W/196, issued on 12 April 2019, and G/AG/W/199 (questions only) issued on 
14 June 2019.  
73 WTO documents G/ADP/M/55 and G/ADP/M/56.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 64 - 
 
  Table 3.19 Concerns raised on anti -dumping practices  
Measure implemented by  Member(s)  
raising the concern  
Argentina   
Investigation on parenteral solutions  Mexico  
Armenia   
Investigation by the Eurasian Economic Union on zinc -plated or -coated 
flat-rolled steel products  Ukraine  
Brazil   
Measures on milk powder products  New Zealand  
Sunset review of measures on heavy plates  Ukraine  
Sunset review of measures on tyres for passenger cars  Ukraine  
China   
Investigation and provisional measure on broiler or chicken products  Brazil  
Preliminary determination on acrylonitrile -butadiene rubber  Japan  
Initiation of investigation and preliminary determination on stainless steel 
billets, hot -rolled plates and coils  Japan  
Measures on acrylonitrile -butadiene rubber  Korea, Republic of  
Canada   
Normal value review on certain liquid dielectric transformers  Korea, Republic of  
Normal value review on certain carbon and alloy steel line pipes  Korea, Republic of  
Measures on Oil Country Tubular Goods (OCTG ) Turkey  
Colombia   
Measures on cylindrical metal drums  Chile 
Investigation and measures on frozen fries  European Union  
European Union   
Sunset review on seamless steel pipes and tubes  Russian Federation  
Provisional duties on mixtures of urea and ammonium nitrate  Russian Federation  
India   
Sunset review on soda ash Turkey  
Indonesia   
Measures on hot -rolled coil  Kazakhstan  
Israel   
Investigation on low -voltage copper cables  Turkey  
Investigation on Portland cement  Turkey  
Mexico   
Sunset review on ferro -silico-manganese  Ukraine  
Peru  
Measures on biodiesel  Argentina  
Investigation on certain steel bars  Brazil  
United States   
Preliminary determination on large -diameter welded pipes  Canada  
Sunset review on stainless steel bar  Japan  
Administrative reviews on OCTG, circular welded non -alloy pipe, 
heavy -walled rectangular welded carbon steel pipes and tubes, large -
diameter welded pipe and corrosion resistant steel  Korea, Republic of  
Measures on circular welded carbon steel pipes and tubes  Thailand  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.93.   Additional issues and concerns were raised at the October 2018 meeting on: (i) the 
non-notification by some Members of their legislative status in the ADP Committee , albeit doing so 
in the context of the TPRB forum (raised by United States); (ii) the enact ment and implementation 
of the amendments to the Basic AD Regulation of the European Union allowing the latter not to apply 
the lesser duty rule in case of price distortions for raw materials in the exporting country (raised by  
Russian Federation ); (iii) t he US application of adverse facts available and the determination of 
particular market situation in investigations (raised by Korea, Republic of; Japan; China ; and Russian 
Federation); and ( iv) the European Union's use of the cost adjustment methodology , already 
challenged by certain Members under the DS mechanism (raised by  Russian  Federation ). 
3.94.   Further concerns raised in the May 2019 ADP Committee meeting referred to: (i) the 
non-notification of anti-dumping  legislation by Kenya (raised by United States ); (ii) the US particular 
market situation determination in the imposition of anti-dumping  measures ( raised by 
Korea,  Republic of ; and Thailand ); (iii) the US application of adverse facts available (raised by  
Korea,  Republic of ); (iv) the EU amendments to its anti-dumping  regulation pertaining to the 
non-application of the lesser duty rule and to the application of the cost adjustment methodology WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 65 - 
 
  (raised by  Russian Federation) ; and (v) Mexico's non -market economy methodologies applied in 
anti-dumping  investigations and reviews (raised by  Russian Federation ).  
3.95.   At the meetings of the  Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures74 on 
23 October  2018 and 30 April 2019, concerns were raised on countervailing duty actions as per 
Table  3.20. 
Table 3.20 Concerns raised on countervailing duty actions  
Measure implemented by  Member(s)  
raising the concern  
India  
Increased use of countervailing duties by India  China  
United States  
Imposition of countervailing duties on ripe olives  European Union  
Determinations in various countervailing  investigations  Turkey  
Investigation on fabricated structural steel  Mexico  
Investigations on hot-rolled and cold -rolled steel products and large -
diameter welded pipes  Korea,  Republic of  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.96.   At the same meetings , concerns were raised on China's alleged subsidy programmes in the 
steel sector (raised by European Union and United States).  
3.97.   Additional concerns were raised on: (i) the elimin ation of export subsidies by the Members 
that received extensions under Article 27.4 of the SCM Agreement; (ii) the low and declining level 
of compliance with the notification and transparency obligations in the SCM Agreement; (iii) requests 
for informatio n pursuant to Article s 25.8 and 25.9 (raised by United States); (iv) subsidies and 
overcapacity (raised by Canada, European Union, Japan, Mexico, and United States); (v) the 
implementation of paragraph 2 of the Ministerial Decision on Fisheries Subsidies ( raised by 
Argentina; Australia; Canada; Costa Rica; European Union; Iceland; Japan; Korea, Republic of; 
New Zealand; Norway; Chinese Taipei; and United States).  
3.98.   At the meeting of the Trade -Related Investment Measures  (TRIMs) Committee on 
17 October  201875, new or persistent issues were raised, as per Table 3.21: 
Table 3.21 Concerns raised at the October 2018 TRIMs Committee meeting  
Measure implemented by  Member(s)  
raising the concern  
Argentina  
Act 27,263 on the development and strengthening of auto -partsa Mexico  
China  
Local content in cybersecurity measures (including provisions on 
insurance system informatization)b United States  
Indonesia  
Requirements for 4G LTE mobile devicesc European Union, Japan, 
United  States  
Provisions in the energy sector (mining, oil and gas)d European Union, Japan, 
United  States  
Industry Law and Trade Lawe European Union, Japan  
Minimum local -product requirement for the modern retail sectorf European Union, Japan  
Measures relating to investment in the telecommunications sectorg European Union, Japan  
Requirements for pharmaceutical products and medical devicesh European Union, United States  
Russian Federation  
Measures implementing the Russian Federation's import substitution 
policyi European Union, United States  
Turkey   
Practices and measures in the pharmaceutical sector  European Union, United States  
a WTO documents G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/1, 1 May 2017; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/2, 22  May 2017; 
G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/3, 11 October 2017; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/4, 5 February 2018; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/5, 
3 May 2018; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/6, 7 June 2018; and G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/7, 25 September 2018.  
 
74 WTO documents  G/SCM/M/ 107 and G/SCM/M/ 109, respectively.  
75 WTO document G/TRIMS/M/45.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 66 - 
 
  b WTO document G/TRIMS/Q/CHN/1, 3 June 2016.  
c WTO documents G/TRIMS/W/148, 26 March 2015 ; and G/TRIMS/W/ 162, 27 April 2015.  
d WTO documents G/TRIMS/W/70, 9 October 2009; G/TRIMS/W/74, 6 August 2010; G/TRIMS/W/79, 
22 December 2010; G/TRIMS/W/88, 22 September 2011; G/TRIMS/W/100, 6 July 2010; 
G/TRIMS/W/108, 20 September 2012; G/TRIMS/W/123, 30 April 2013; G/TR IMS/W/128, 
4 October  2013; G/TRIMS/W/137, 13 August 2014; and G/TRIMS/W/137/Corr.1, 
25 September  2014.  
e WTO documents G/TRIMS/W/138, 13 August 2013; G/TRIMS/W/140, 16 September 2014; 
G/TRIMS/W/157, 24 April 2015; and G/TRIMS/W/158, 27 April 2015.  
f WTO documents G/TRIMS/W/139, 15 September 2014; G/TRIMS/W/141, 17 September 2014; 
G/TRIMS/W/159, 24 April 2015; and G/TRIMS/W/161, 27 April 2015.  
g WTO documents G/TRIMS/W/61, 8 May 2009; G/TRIMS/W/63, 17 September 2009; 
G/TRIMS/W/71,  17 December 2009; G/T RIMS/W/75, 6 August 2010; G/TRIMS/W/78, 
20 September  2010; G/TRIMS/W/80, 22 December 2010; G/TRIMS/W/86, 22 September 2011; 
G/TRIMS/W/96, 4  May 2012; G/TRIMS/W/104, 5 September 2012; G/TRIMS/W/131, 
14 October  2013; G/TRIMS/W/154, 13 April 2015; G/TRIMS/W/1 60, 27 April 2015; 
G/TRIMS/Q/IDN/1, 2 May 2017; and G/TRIMS/Q/IDN/2, 21 September 2018.  
h WTO document G/TRIMS/Q/IDN/3, 21 September 2018.  
i WTO documents G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/4, 26 May 2016; G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/5, 27 September 2016; 
G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/6, 27 April 2017; G/T RIMS/Q/RUS/7, 8 November 2017; G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/8, 
24 January 2018; and G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/9, 22 March 2018.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.99.   At the meeting  of the TRIMs Committee on 6 June 201976, new or continuing issues were 
raised , as per Table 3.22: 
Table 3.22 Concerns raised at the June 2019 TRIMs Committee meeting  
Measure implemented by  Member(s)  
raising the concern  
Argentina   
Act 27,263 on the development and strengthening 
regime of the Argentine autoparti sma Mexico  
China   
Local content in cybersecurity measures (including 
provisions on insurance system informatization)b United States  
Indonesia   
Comprehensive review of localization measures  European Union, Japan, United  States  
Requirements for p harmaceutical products and medical 
devicesc European Union, United States  
Russian Federation   
Measures implementing the Russian Federation's 
import substitution policyd United States  
Measures to support the automotive industry to replace 
the automotive investment incentive programmes  United States  
a WTO documents G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/1 ; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/2; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/3; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/4; 
G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/5; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/6; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/7; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/8; and 
G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/9.  
b WTO document G/TRIMS/Q/ CHN/1 . 
c WTO documents G/TRIMS/Q/IDN/ 3; G/TRIMS/Q/IDN/ 4; and G/TRIMS/Q/IDN/ 5. 
d WTO documents G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/4; G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/5; G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/6 ; G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/7; 
G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/8; and G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/9.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.100.   At the meetings of the Committee on Safeguards77, on 22 October 2018 and 29 April 2019, 
concerns were raised on specific safeguard actions as per Table 3. 23. 
 
76 WTO document G/TRIMS/M/46.  
77 WTO document s G/SG/M/5 4, 29 March 2019 ; and G/SG/M/5 5. WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 67 - 
 
  Table 3.23 Concerns raised at the Committee on Safeg uards meetings  
Measure implemented by  Member(s) raising the concern  
Canada   
Investigation on certain steel products  Mexico; Turkey; Japan; 
Korea,  Republic of  
Chile   
Investigation on powdered milk and Gouda cheese  United States, New Zealand  
Egypt   
Investigation on semi -finished products of iron or non -alloy steel and 
steel rebar (bars, rods and coils) for construction purposes  Ukraine, Pakistan  
Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic and Russian Federationa  
Investigation on certain flat -rolled steel products  Ukraine; Japan; Korea, Republic of  
Investigation on welded tubes of stainless steel  Ukraine, European Union  
European Union   
Investigation on certain steel products  Brazil; Japan; Switzerland; Turkey; 
China; Ukraine; Russian  Federation; 
Korea,  Republic of  
Kingdom of Bahrain; the State of Kuwait; Oman; Qatar; 
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; and United Arab Emiratesb  
Investigation on certain flat -rolled steel products  Ukraine; Japan; Korea, Republic of  
India   
Investigatio n on solar cells  Japan  
Indonesia   
Investigation on ceramic flags and paving, hearth or wall tiles  Japan  
Investigation on aluminium foil  Japan; Korea, Republic of  
Madagascar   
Investigation on pasta  Mauritius, United States, Egypt  
Morocco   
Investigation on coated wood board  European Union  
Investigation on cold -rolled sheets and plated or coated sheets  Turkey, European Union  
Investigation on wire rods and reinforcing bars  Turkey, Ukraine  
Philippines   
Investigation on float glass  European Union  
South Africa   
Investigation on threaded fasteners of iron or steel  European Union  
Turkey   
Investigation on iron and steel products  European Union; Korea, Republic of; 
Japan; Brazil; China; Ukraine  
Investigation on wallpaper and similar wallcoverings  European Union; Korea, Republic of  
Investigation on yarn of nylon or other polyamides  European Union; Korea, Republic of  
Ukraine   
Investigation on flexible porous plates, blocks and sheets of 
polyurethane foams  European Union  
United States   
Investigation on crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells  China; Japan; Korea, Republic of; 
Norway  
Investigation on large residential washers  Korea, Republic of  
Measures taken following Section 232 investigations  Turkey, Japan, Russian Federation, 
China, India  
Viet Nam   
Investigation on certain semi -finished and finished products of alloy 
and non -alloy steel  Japan  
a Investigations are initiated at the level of the Eurasian Economic Union.  
b Investigations are initiated at the level of  the GCC.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.101.   At the meeting of the Working Party on State Trading Enterprises  (STEs) o n 
19 October  2018,78 trade concerns were raised on: (i) Canada's milk class 7 ( raised by  European 
Union); (ii)  the adequacy of China's notification ( raised by  United States) ; (iii) measures imposed 
by India limiting  the importation of pulses ( raised by Australia , Canada , European Union and United 
States ); (iv) the provision of kiwi fruit nursery stock free of charge by New Zealand's Zespr i Group 
Limited to growers outside New Zealand ( raised by  European Union); ( v) the continued 
non-notification of STEs by the Russian Federation (raised by United States and European Union); 
(vi) the continued non -notification of STEs by the United Arab Emi rates (raised by United States); 
 
78 WTO document G/STR/M/34.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 68 - 
 
  and ( vii) the low  level of compliance with the notification obligations relating to STEs (raised by 
United States).  
3.102.   At the meeting of the Working Party on STEs o n 16 July 201979, trade concerns were raised 
on: (i) measures imposed by India limiting  the importation of pulses ( raised by  Australia and 
Canada); (ii) the provision of kiwi fruit nursery stock free of charge by New Zealand's Zespri Group 
Limited to growers outside New Ze aland ( raised by  European Union); (iii) Brazil's notification of no 
STEs (raised by United States); (iv) the continued non -notification of STEs by the Russian Federation 
(raised by United States , European Union and Ukraine ); (v) the continued non -notificat ion of STEs 
by the United Arab Emirates  (raised by United States ); and (v i) the low level of compliance with the 
notification obligations relating to STEs (raised by United States).  
3.103.   At the meeting of the Committee on Trade and Environment  (CTE) on 15 May 2 01980, 
Colombia and Malaysia provided information on the sustainability aspects of palm oil production , 
with a view to dispel ling misconcepti ons that could impact trade and consumption.  
3.104.   At the meeting of the Council for Trade in Services (CTS) held on 7 December 2018, issues  
were reiterated about cybersecurity measures by China (raised by Japan and United States81) and 
by Viet Nam (raised by Japan and United States).82 As part of its reply, China reiterated its concerns 
about measures by the Unite d States that China alleges may affect other Members' cybersecurity 
interests.83  
3.105.   An issue about cybersecurity measures by China was repeated at the meeting of the Council 
held on 21 March 2019 (raised by Japan) .84 As part of its reply, China expressed its c oncerns about 
the definition of "critical infrastructure" contained in Japan's cybersecurity legislation.85 Issues 
related to  Viet Nam's cybersecurity measures were also reiterated at that meeting ( raised by Japan 
and United States).86  
3.106.   At the meeting of the  CTS of 27 June 2019, issues  were reiterated about cybersecurity 
measures by China and Viet Nam (raised by Japan and United States).87 As part of its reply, China 
expressed concerns about a cybersecurity measure by the United States.88 
3.107.   At the meetings of the Committee on Trade and Development  (CTD) on 21 November 2018, 
5 April 2019 and 28 June 201989, the LDC Group expressed concer ns regarding the utilization rate 
of trade preferences by LDCs, and called for technical assistance to allow for a b etter utilization of 
these preferences.  At the meetings of the CTD's Dedicated Session on Small Economies on 
1 November 2018 and 29 April 201990, a trade concern raised related to the challenges small 
economies experience in their efforts to reduce trade costs, particularly in the area of trade 
facilitation. Also at the meeting of 29 April 2019, concerns were expressed with regard to the 
vulnerability of small economies to natural disasters , the impact on trade, and issues relating to 
small economies ' trade in commodities.   
3.108.   This Section attempts to provide evidence of the continued increase of trade concerns raised 
in various WTO bodies between mid -October 2018 and mid -October  2019. Some  230 new or 
repeated trade concerns were raised in 2 8 formal mee tings of WTO bodies  other than the SPS and 
TBT Committees , showing an increase of 8% in the number of concerns raised per meeting compared 
 
79 WTO document G/STR/M/35.  
80 WTO document  WT/CTE/M/67.  
81 The United States also circulated a communication under that item, entitled "Measures adopted and 
under development by China  relating to its Cybersecurity Law  – Questions to China " (WTO document  
S/C/W/37 8, 5 October 2018 ). 
82 WTO document  S/C/M/137.  
83 WTO document  S/C/M/137.  
84 WTO document  S/C/M/ 138. 
85 WTO document S/C/M/138.  
86 WTO document S/C/M/138.  
87 WTO document S/C/M/139.  
88 WTO document S/C/M/139.  
89 WTO document s WT/COMTD/M/107 ; WT/COMTD/M/108 ; and WT/COMTD/M/109.  
90 WTO document s WT/COMTD/SE/M/37 ; and WT/COMTD/SE/M/38.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 69 - 
 
  to the previous annual report.  A significant  number of trade concerns were raised in successive 
meetings of the same Committee/Council , and often in multiple WTO bod ies.  
3.109.   The issues outlined in this Section confirm that a large number of trade concerns involve 
what appears to be technically complex and persistent problems. This, in turn,  may explain why  
WTO Members are i ncreasingly using multiple platforms within the WTO  committee structure to 
address various aspects of such concerns. It is systemically significant that Members see the formal 
meetings of the relevant WTO bodies as important platforms for calling attention  to specific trade 
issues and concerns, and for exploring solutions to trade friction non -litigiously. At the same time, 
however, the repetition and non -resolution of the same trade concerns and issues in various 
WTO bodies may also be a source of concern.  The Secretariat will continue to closely monitor 
developments in this area.  
3.6  Policy Developments in Agriculture  
3.110.   The Committee on Agriculture (CoA) provides a forum for WTO Members to discuss matters 
related to agriculture trade , and to consult on matters relating to Members' implementation of 
commitments under the Agreement on Agriculture ( AoA). The review work of the CoA is based on 
notifications Members make in relation to  their commitments. Article 18.6 allows them to raise any 
matter relevant to the im plementation of the commitments under the AoA.  
3.111.   In the framework of the three CoA meetings that took place between mid -October  2018 and 
mid-October  201991, Members posed a total of 370 questions, including questions both on individual 
notifications and under Article 18.6 . The majority of questions concerning individual notifications 
(70%) were directed at domestic support notifications. Half of the questions raised under Article  18.6 
related to domestic support policies, 31% to policies  affecting market access, and 19% to other 
policies in the area of export competition.  
3.112.   In total, 11 Members raised 141 questions on 71 implementation -related matters 
(Article  18.6) in the November 2018  and February and June 2019  CoA meetings. As can be se en in 
Chart 3.19, the average number of questions raised under Article 18.6 per meeting has been on the 
rise since 2011 , reaching an average of 51 questions per meeting  in 2019 . These numbers include 
questions that were repeated from one meeting to the nex t because responses were not provided 
within the relevant time -frames.  
Chart 3.19 Average number of questions raised under Article 18.6 per meeting 
(1995 -2019a) 
 
a 2019 data cover up to the June 2019 CoA meet ing. 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
 
91 26-27 November 2018, 26 -27 February and 25 -26 June 2019 CoA meetings.  
0102030405060Average number of questions raised under Article 18.6 meeting, 1995 -2019a
Source:  WTO Secretariat.a    2019 data covers up to June 2019 CoA meeting.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 70 - 
 
  3.113.   Out of the 71 implementation -related matters  raised in the CoA during the review period, 
49 were discussed for the first time. The remaining issues had been discussed one or more times in 
previous Committee meetings under matters raised under Article 18.6.  
3.114.   Domestic Support: more than half of the new issues raised related to domestic support 
policies potentially benefiting producers of beef (i.e. the European  Union support package to Irish 
beef farmers), cotton (i.e. Egypt's pest control subsidy), dairy products (i.e. the European  Union 
intervention policy, India's dairy loans and National Dairy P lan Phase I, New Zealand's support to 
dairy processing plants, and the  Russian  Federation's increased support to the dairy sector), canola 
(i.e. Canada's support to canola producers) and palm oil (i.e. Thailand's support to palm oil growers). 
Members also raised questions concerning domestic support policies with a wider scope, such as 
China's credit programme, the European  Union's drought support to farmers and its coupled 
payments, Nigeria's domestic support programmes and the U.S. 2018 Farm Bill and its Boson Bounty 
Bucks Funds programme. At the June 2019 CoA meeting, India received several questions 
concerning various of its domestic support programmes (i.e. its  transparency with Green  Box 
measures , its National Food Security Mission, its  Rashtriya Krish i Vikas Yojana , its increased budget 
on agriculture and rural development, its  PM-KISAN income guarantee scheme , its short-term crop 
loans , and its  Transport and Marketing Assistance ).  
3.115.   Market Access: a round  30% of the issues raised related to measures tha t restricted, or had 
the potential to restrict, trade of agricultural products, including coarse grains (i.e. European  Union 's 
malting barley HS code), dairy products (i.e. India's whey milk powder duty , Pakistan's import tariffs 
for dairy products , and Sr i Lanka's tax on imported milk powder), juices and beverages 
(i.e. European  Union 's fruit juices TRQs, and the Republic of Moldova 's environmental charges ), 
poultry ( i.e. Ghana's poultry imports) , wheat (i.e. India's wheat policies, and Brazil's wheat quot a), 
and edible oils ( i.e. India's import duty protections). Questions involving more than one specific 
product were also raised (i.e. European  Union 's modification of its agricultural schedule of 
commitments , Indonesia's measure  18 in DS477 and DS478, and US TRQs) . 
3.116.   Export Competition:  a total of ten issues were raised to seek clarification on policies that 
potentially subsidized exports of chocolate (i.e. Switzerland's "Loi Chocolati ère"), wheat 
(i.e. Turkey's flour exports and Turkish Grain Board), rice (i.e. China's rice policies, India's support 
to rice exporters , and Japan 's export subsidies), oilseeds (i.e. India's soymeal export subsidies)  and 
agricultural products in general (i.e. Egypt's export subsidies and arrears programme, India's 
Maharashtra State support subsidies, the Russian Federation's support to exporting industry in east 
of the country, and U.S. trade promotion payments). Table 3.24 lists the specific issues relating to 
implementation  of commitments that were discussed for the first time during the three CoA meetings 
covered by the Report.92 
Table 3.24 Article 18.6 new issues  
Question summary  Question 
raised by  Products  Number of 
questions  CoA Meetings  ID number  
China's rice policies  United States  Rice 4 91 91133, 91134, 
91135, 91136  
European Union – 
Modification of agricultural 
schedule of commitments  Canada, New 
Zealand, 
Thailand    4 89, 90, 91  91015, 90087, 
90028, 90128, 
90129, 89001  
U.S. Farm Bill 2018  Australia, 
European 
Union, India  Dairy, Milk, 
Milk powders, 
Butter, Cheese, 
Other, Sugar, 
Cane or beet 
sugar, Other  4 90, 91  91062, 90010, 
90071, 90037  
Canada's support to canola 
producers  Ukraine, 
European 
Union, India  Seeds  3 91 91003, 91019, 
91060  
Mexico's Strategic 
Programme of Guaranteed 
Prices  Canada, 
United States  Milk, Fresh 
vegetables, 
Wheat, Corn, 
Rice 3 90, 91  91084, 91159, 
90089  
 
92 The complete list of questions and answers can be accessed through the Agriculture Information 
Management System  (AG IMS). In the AG IMS ( http:// agims.wto.org ), select the function "Search Q&A 
Submitted Since 1995 " and input the ID number of the question concerned.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 71 - 
 
  Question summary  Question 
raised by  Products  Number of 
questions  CoA Meetings  ID number  
Canada's compensation for 
farmers after trade 
concessions  Australia , 
European 
Union    2 91 91002, 91018  
Ghana's poultry imports  United States  Poultry  2 89, 90  90041, 89023  
India's Transport and 
Marketing Assistance (TMA)  Australia, 
United States    2 91 91006, 91154  
India's support to rice 
exports  Japan, 
Thailand, 
United States  Rice 2 90, 91  91153, 90111, 
90130  
India's dairy loans  United States  Dairy, Milk, 
Milk powders, 
Butter, Cheese, 
Other  2 89, 91  91149, 89027  
Japan's export subsidies  United States  Rice 2 89, 91  91158, 89028  
Sri Lanka's tax on imported 
milk powder  New Zealand  Milk powders  2 89, 90  90068, 89064  
Brazil's wheat quota  Ukraine  Wheat  1 91 91001  
China's credit programme  United States    1 89 89022  
Egypt's export subsidy and 
Arrears Program  United States    1 91 91138  
Egypt's pest control 
subsidy  Australia  Cotton  1 90 90019  
European Union's coupled 
payments  India   1 91 91061  
European Union's fruit 
juices TRQ  United States  Fruit and 
vegetable 
beverages  1 91 91176  
European Union's malting 
barley HS code  United States  Coarse grains  1 91 91142  
European Union's support 
package to Irish beef 
farmers  Australia  Bovine  1 91 91004  
European Union's 
intervention policy  New Zealand  Milk powders  1 90 90026  
European Union's drought 
support to farmers  Ukraine    1 89 89056  
India's wheat policies  Ukraine  Wheat  1 91 91009  
India's Maharashtra State 
export subsidies  United States    1 91 91155  
India's National Dairy Plan 
Phase  I United States  Dairy  1 91 91152  
India's National Food 
Security Mission  United States    1 91 91157  
India's Rashtriya Krishi 
Vikas Yojana (RKVY)  United States    1 91 91156  
India's transparency with 
Green Box measures  United States    1 91 91150  
India's increased budget on 
agriculture and rural 
development  European 
Union    1 91 91020  
India's PM -KISAN income 
guarantee scheme  New Zealand    1 91 91007  
India's short -term crop 
loans United States    1 91 91147  
India's wheat public 
stockpiling  United States  Wheat  1 91 91141  
India's soymeal export 
subsidies  United States  Oil seeds, fats 
and oils  1 90 90044  
India's import duty 
protections  United States  Oils 1 90 90042  
India's whey milk powder 
duty United States  Milk powders  1 89 89025  
Indonesia's Measure 18 in 
DS477 and DS478  New Zealand    1 91 91010  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 72 - 
 
  Question summary  Question 
raised by  Products  Number of 
questions  CoA Meetings  ID number  
Moldova's environmental 
charges  Ukraine  Alcoholic 
beverages, 
Fruit and 
vegetable 
beverages  1 90 90005  
New Zealand's support to 
dairy processing facilities  European 
Union  Dairy, Milk, 
Milk powders, 
Butter, Cheese, 
Other  1 90 90006  
Nigeria's domestic support 
programmes  Australia    1 90 90034  
Pakistan's import  tariffs for 
dairy products  European 
Union  Dairy, Milk, 
Milk powders, 
Butter, Cheese, 
Other  1 89 89062  
Russian Federation's 
support to exporting 
industry in east of the 
country  European 
Union    1 91 91021  
Russian Federation's 
increased support to dairy 
sector  European 
Union  Dairy, Milk, 
Milk powders, 
Butter, Cheese, 
Other  1 90 90007  
Switzerland's "Loi 
Chocolatière" and 
implementation of the 
Nairobi Decision on Export 
Competition  European 
Union  Cocoa (other)  1 90 90020  
Thailand's support to palm 
oil growers  European 
Union  Vegetable oils 
and fats  1 90 90008  
Turkey's flour export and 
Turkish Grain Board  European 
Union  Wheat  1 90 90009  
U.S. Boston Bounty Bucks 
funds programme   India   1 90 90038  
U.S. disaster bill  European 
Union  Fresh 
vegetables  1 91 91025  
U.S. TRQs  Russian 
Federation    1 91 91026  
U.S. trade promotion 
payments  European 
Union    1 90 90013  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.117.   Other measures that were discussed related to follow -up questions on persistent areas of 
concern (Table 3.25)93. A number of these issues had been raised in the CoA multiple times. 
Two have been raised in 1 3 CoA meetings (i.e. Canada's new milk ingredient c lass and its wine sale 
policy) while questions on India's pulse policies have been raised in 8 meetings. The Philippine's rice 
waiver and Pakistan's wheat export subsidies were subject to review in seven CoA meetings. 
A number of these questions were co -sponsored by two or three WTO Members. Policies from t he 
European  Union, the Republic of Korea, Mongolia,  Suriname , Thailand, the United States and 
Zimbabwe were also the subject of repeated concerns under Article 18.6.  
 
93 The complete set of questions and answers can be accessed through the AG  IMS 
(http://agims.wto .org) by selecting the function "Search Q&A Submitted Since 1995 " and inputting the 
ID number of the question concerned.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 73 - 
 
  Table 3.25 Questions previously raised under Article 18.6  
Question 
summary  Question raised 
by Products  Number 
of 
questions  Number 
of 
meetings 
the issue 
was 
discussed  CoA 
meetings  ID number  
Canada's New 
Milk Ingredient 
Class Australia, India, 
New Zealand, 
United States  Dairy, Milk, 
Milk powders, 
Butter, 
Cheese, 
Other  51 13 79, 80, 81, 
82, 83, 84, 
85, 86, 87, 
88, 89, 90, 
91 91132, 90018, 90120, 
90039, 89020, 89053, 
89055, 88120, 88121, 
88065, 88064, 88061, 
87015, 87063, 87064, 
87065, 8715 9, 87160, 
86002, 86030, 86033, 
85002, 85003, 85004, 
85005, 85006, 85008, 
85011, 85051, 85052, 
85053, 85054, 85055, 
85056, 84012, 84018, 
84020, 84021, 84022, 
84023, 84025, 84027, 
84029, 84030, 84035, 
84111, 84107, 84031, 
83054, 83039, 82012, 
82059, 82013, 8 2001, 
81001, 81009, 81049, 
81054, 81055, 81056, 
80003, 80005, 80006, 
80025, 79035  
Canada's wine 
sale policy  Australia, 
European Union, 
New Zealand, 
United States  Alcoholic 
beverages  24 13 79, 80, 81, 
82, 83, 84, 
85, 86, 87, 
88, 89, 90, 
91 91137, 90040, 89021, 
89054, 88096, 87016, 
87066, 86034, 85012, 
85057, 84017, 84106, 
84033, 84112, 84105, 
83007, 83041, 83104, 
83135, 82057, 82002, 
81003, 81011, 81024, 
81046, 81047, 81097, 
80008, 80009, 80094, 
80095, 79003  
India's pulses 
policies  Australia, Cana da, 
Russian 
Federation, 
Ukraine, United 
States  Processed 
vegetables  40 8 84, 85, 86, 
87, 88, 89, 
90, 91  91005, 91008, 91075, 
91076, 91077, 91140, 
90032, 90088, 90029, 
90004, 90043, 89004, 
89007, 89024, 89057, 
88060, 88066, 88092, 
88095, 88109, 87001, 
87017, 87073, 87074, 
87087, 87088, 87077, 
87070, 87071, 87072, 
87075, 87076, 86061, 
86062, 86063, 86065, 
86039, 86035, 85064, 
84044  
Philippines' rice 
waiver  Australia, Japan, 
Thailand, United 
States  Rice 9 7 84, 85, 86, 
87, 88, 89, 
91 91012, 89063, 88032 , 
87082, 86008, 85071, 
84057, 84015, 84079  
Pakistan's 
wheat export 
subsidies  Australia, United 
States  Wheat  8 7 76, 77, 87, 
88, 89, 90, 
91 91160, 90045, 89030, 
88072, 87021, 76020, 
76028, 77029  
Thailand's 
import permits 
for feed wheat  Australia, 
European Union, 
United States  Animal feed, 
Wheat, Corn  9 6 83, 84, 85, 
86, 88, 91  91022, 88002, 86106, 
85039, 84074, 84059, 
83107, 83045, 83013  
Republic of 
Korea's rice 
imports  Australia, 
Thailand, United 
States  Rice 8 6 23, 78, 86, 
87, 88, 89  89029, 89060, 88045, 
87090, 86036, 23006, 
78020, 78024  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 74 - 
 
  Question 
summary  Question raised 
by Products  Number 
of 
questions  Number 
of 
meetings 
the issue 
was 
discussed  CoA 
meetings  ID number  
Russian 
Federation's 
railway subsidy 
for exports  Australia, Canada, 
European Union, 
Ukraine, United 
States  Cereals, 
Wheat, Corn, 
Rice, Malt, 
Coarse grains  11 5 85, 86, 87, 
88, 91  91161, 91162, 88073, 
87022, 87098, 86010, 
86068, 86067, 86038, 
86047, 85036  
Pakistan's sugar 
policies  Australia, Brazil, 
Guatemala, 
Russian Federation  Sugar, Cane 
or beet 
sugar, Other  7 5 85, 86, 87, 
88, 89  89061, 89091, 88033, 
88124, 88125, 87081, 
86007, 86009, 85069  
Mongolia's 
quota regime 
for importation  Russian Federation  Milk, Cereal  5 5 86, 87, 88, 
90, 91  91011, 90027, 88104, 
87094, 86001  
U.S. proposed 
domestic 
support 
measures  Australia, Canada, 
China European 
Union, India, 
Japan, Ukraine, 
New Zealand  Swine, Milk, 
Fresh 
vegetables, 
Wheat, Corn, 
Coarse grains  17 4 88 ,89, 90, 
91 91013, 91014, 91016, 
91023, 91024, 91027, 
91063, 91080, 90035, 
89047, 89066, 88030, 
88048, 88028, 8804 7, 
88029, 88098  
India's sugar 
policies  Australia, Brazil, 
European Union, 
Russian Federation  Sugar, Cane 
or beet 
sugar, Other  9 4 87, 88, 89, 
90 90033, 89058, 89090, 
88046, 88130, 88129, 
88128, 88127, 88039, 
88042, 88043, 87002, 
87079  
India's skim 
milk powder 
export subsidies  Australia, 
European Union, 
New Zealand, 
United States  Dairy, Milk, 
Milk powders, 
Butter, 
Cheese, 
Other  6 4 88, 89, 90, 
91 91151, 90002, 89026, 
88070, 88037, 88122, 
88040  
U.S. dairy 
policies  Canada  Dairy, Milk, 
Milk powders, 
Butter, 
Cheese, 
Other  6 4 85, 86, 87, 
89 89005, 89006, 87105, 
87106, 86084, 85079  
Thailand's 
sugar policies  Australia, 
European Union, 
Brazil  Sugar, Cane 
or beet 
sugar, Other  6 4 76, 77, 89  76001, 76021, 76033, 
77031, 77046  
Zimbabwe's 
tobacco export 
incentive  United States  Tobacco  4 4 88, 89, 90, 
91 91163, 90046, 89033, 
88076  
Suriname's 
poultry tariffs  United States  Poultry  4 4 86, 87, 88, 
89 89031, 88074, 87023, 
86049  
U.S. support to 
the cotton 
sector  Brazil, European 
Union, India  Cotton  3 3 86, 87, 90  90036, 87103, 86069  
India's 
Merchandise 
Exports from 
India Scheme 
(MEIS)  Australia, New 
Zealand, United 
States  MEIS 3 2 88, 89  89059, 88123, 88038, 
88067  
EU's common 
agricultural 
policy (CAP) 
reform  New Zealand, 
Australia    2 2 88, 90  90022, 88062  
India's 
proposed 
domestic 
support 
programmes  European Union    2 2 88, 90  90003, 88041  
Thailand's 
import licensing 
for meat  United States  Meat, Bovine, 
Swine, Sheep 
and goat, 
Poultry, 
Horses, Other  2 2 88, 89  89032, 88075  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 75 - 
 
  3.118.   Members continued to take steps towards the implementation of the  December  2015 
Nairobi  Ministerial Decision on Export Competition . Out of the 16 Members with positive export 
subsid y commitment  levels in their schedules at the time of adoption of the Nairobi Decision on 
Export Competition , 11 had their revised export subsidy schedules certified (Australia, Colombia, 
Iceland, Israel, Mexico, Norway, South Africa, Switzerland, Turkey, t he United States and Uruguay); 
2 (Canada and the European Union) circulated their draft revised schedules (but are still pending for 
certification ); and 3 still have to circulate their revised draft ES schedules (Brazil, Indonesia, and 
the Bolivarian Repub lic of Venezuela).  
3.119.   Members undertook the 2019 annual dedicated discussion on the implementation of the 
Nairobi  Ministerial Decision on export competition  at its June 2019 CoA meeting. In the context of 
this review, a total of 32 questions were raised regar ding policies in the area of export credits, export 
credit guarantees or insurance programmes , international food aid and State Trading Enterprises 
(Table  3.26)94. 
Table 3.26 Questions raised  at the June 2019 C oA annual dedicated discussion on export 
competition  
ID number  Question raised by  Question 
answered by  Areas  
91111  United States  Argentina  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes  
91028  European Union  Australia  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes  
91055  European Union  Brazil  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes  
91057, 91112  European Union, 
United States  Canada  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes; international food aid  
91064, 91070, 
91114, 91115, 
91117  European Union, 
United States  China  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes; state trading 
enterprises; international food aid  
91118, 91119  United States  European Union  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes; international food aid  
91120  United States  Hong Kong, China  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes  
91072, 91073, 
91213  European Uni on, 
United States  India State trading enterprises  
91071  European Union  Indonesia  Export subsidies  
91123  United States  Korea, Republic of  International food aid  
91069, 91124  European Union, 
United States  Malaysia  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes  
91068  European Union  New Zealand  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes  
91125  United States  Pakistan  State trading enterprises  
91126, 91127  United States  Russian 
Federation  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes; state trading 
enterprises  
91067  European Union  Switzerland  Export subsidies  
91110, 91130  United States  Thailand  State trading enterprises; export credits, export 
credit guarantees or insurance programmes  
91065, 91066  European Union  Turkey  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes; export subsidies  
91056  European Union  United States  International food aid  
91122  United States  Uruguay  Export credits, export cre dit guarantees or 
insurance programmes  
91109  United States  Viet Nam  Export credits, export credit guarantees or 
insurance programmes  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
 
94 The complete set of questions and answers can be accessed through the AG IMS  
(http://agims.wto.org ) by selecting the function "Search Q&A Submitted Since 1995 " and inputting the 
ID number of the question concerned.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 76 - 
 
  3.7  General Economic Support  
3.120.   At the most recent informal TPRB meeting, on 22 July 2019, several WTO Members 
expressed disappointment that it had again been impossible for the Secretariat to establish a 
separate annex on general economic support measures. At the meeting, the Director -General called 
on the WTO membership to provide the Secretariat with guidance on how such measures should be 
covered by future Trade Monitoring Reports.  
3.121.   Over the past couple of years, the Secretariat has been unable to justify the inclusion of a 
separate an nex on general economic support measures in the Trade Monitoring Reports. This was 
partly a reflection of the low participation and response rate of WTO Members to the request for 
information, and partly because such an annex would have been biased against  those Members that 
traditionally publish detailed information of such measures and programmes. Compounding this 
scarcity of information volunteered by Members, some delegations often insisted on excluding 
general economic support measures identified by th e Secretariat from public sources and for which 
verification was sought. The informal meeting generated an exchange of views on how to address 
this issue, with one delegation exploring the option of requesting those Members which ask for the 
omission of a support measure for clarification of such a request . 
3.122.   In response to the Director -General's September 2019 request for information for this Trade 
Monitoring Report, only eight WTO Members (Bangladesh; China; Colombia; the European Union; 
Hong Kong, China; K enya; Thailand; and Turkey) and one Observer (Azerbaijan) volunteered 
information on general economic support measures. From the Secretariat's own research, it was 
clear that many support measures with potentially important ramifications for trade were not  
reported by Members for this  review  period.  
3.123.   Secretariat research on general economic support measures implemented during the review 
period shows that some conclusions with respect to the use and scope of these measures still stand 
out. Sectors which recei ved significant disbursements during the review period included support to 
farmers, investment in technology and innovation programmes, and investment in various energy 
sectors. Other measures included transportation aid schemes, loan guarantees to SMEs (o ften linked 
to export), aid arrangements to telecommunication service providers, favourable income tax policies, 
and miscellaneous support policies for the steel sector. Several of these measures are multi -year 
programmes, with financial disbursements stag gered over the lifetime of a project. Other measures 
were one -off grants or aid schemes. In monetary terms, general economic support measures 
submitted by delegations or identified by the Secretariat envisaged disbursements ranging from a 
few hundred thous and US dollars to several billion US dollars.  
3.124.   The current review period has confirmed that WTO Members continue to implement such 
measures as part of their overall trade policy . The way the application of these measures appears 
to expand – in scope as wel l as in monetary terms – should be of concern to those who fund them, 
as well as to those who must compete with them. Although  the large economy -wide subsidies and 
bail-outs of 2009 -10 are no longer common, there is no evidence that governments have turned  
their back on subsidization as a policy tool, particularly in certain strategic industries or sectors. The 
selective commitment to transparency which has characterized general economic support measures 
in the context of the trade monitoring exercise  may w arrant further reflection by all Members .  
3.125.   It is important to emphasize that the trade monitoring exercise does not make any 
judgement as to the WTO compatibility of such measures. While it is possible that these measures 
may affect trade in some way, it i s not always straightforward to conclude that they restrict or 
facilitate trade, or that they distort competition. The discussions at the July informal TPRB meeting 
reinforced the need to look for a way forward in the reporting of these measures in the Tra de 
Monitoring Reports. There is little doubt that this would have to explore manners in which 
transparency on such measures can be increased while, at the same time, safeguarding Members' 
ability to argue why a specific measure does not qualify for inclusi on in this Report.  
3.8  Overview of Trade Policy Reviews  
3.126.   Between mid -October 2018 and mid -October 2019, 16 Trade Policy Reviews (TPRs) were 
undertaken  (Table  3.27) . They provided the WTO membership with enhanced transparency and a 
better understanding of the trade and economic development in each of the Members reviewed. WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 77 - 
 
  Discussions among participants at the level of the Trade Policy Review Body were substantive, 
constructive and insightful .95 
Table 3.27 Trade Policy Reviews from mid -October 2018 to mid -October 2019 – 
Summary tariff indicators  
 
Simple applied average (%)  Duty 
freea Non-
ad valorema  
Total  WTO 
agriculture  WTO non-
agriculture  
Vanuatu (2018)  9.3 16.9 8.0 26.0 0.04 
Armenia (2018)  7.5 12.8 6.0 19.6 13.0 
Hong Kong, China (2018)  0.0 0.0 0.0 100.0  0.0 
Nepal (2018 -19) 12.4 15.0 11.9 3.6 0.9 
United States (2018b) 4.8 9.4 4.0 37.5 10.6 
Ecuador (2018)  12.2 18.5 11.2 37.3 5.0 
EAC (2018)  12.9 20.7 11.7 37.4 1.0 
Bangladesh (2018 -19) 14.8 18.1 14.1 4.6 0.4 
Samoa (2018c) 11.4 15.0 10.7 3.3 1.0 
Papua New Guinea (2018)  4.0 11.0 2.8 74.0 1.4 
Trinidad & Tobago (2018)  9.1 17.9 7.3 60.7 0.4 
Canada (2019)  6.1 21.8 2.5 70.4 3.7 
North Macedonia (2019)  8.5 17.6 5.8 40.1 3.2 
Suriname (2019)  11.4 19.5 9.8 5.0 0.0 
Costa Rica (2019)  7.0 14.1 5.6 2.6 0.0 
Peru (2019)  2.2 3.0 2.1 69.9 0.6 
a % of total tariff lines.  
b As of February 2018.  
c As of 3 April 2018.  
Note:  Calculations are based on national tariff line levels; including AVEs as available, in case of 
unavailability the ad valorem part of alternate and compound rates is included; excluding in -quota 
rates, if applicable.  
 Figure in brackets refer to the y ear of the tariff schedule applied.  
Source:  WTO calculations, based on data received by the authorities.  
Vanuatu: 23 and 25 October 2018  
3.127.   Vanuatu's initiatives to integrate into the multilateral trading system were greatly 
appreciated. Members valued the co untry's strong commitment to the WTO and welcomed its recent 
opening of a permanent mission in Geneva. They noted Vanuatu's active pursuit of regional 
integration and the conclusion of FTAs, most notably in the South Pacific. They noted its considerable 
strides in improving its economic and trade performance since its accession to the WTO. They 
highlighted that, despite the extensive damage caused by Cyclone Pam in 2015 and Vanuatu's 
considerable exposure to natural disasters and climate change, it had mana ged to achieve 
reasonable growth rates and has been able to maintain a positive economic outlook. Vanuatu's per 
capita GDP has reached USD  2,900, and its graduation from LDC status is expected. Members 
commended Vanuatu on its national development strategy , " Vision 2030", launched in 2017, and 
the adoption of a trade policy framework in 2012, which both focus on mainstreaming trade and 
investment into the overall development agenda. They praised Vanuatu for its open trade and 
investment regime, with relati vely low average tariffs and considerable reductions in customs 
clearance times. Noting the importance of comprehensive policy reforms together with trade 
liberalization, Members also underlined the role that technical assistance had played in improving 
Vanuatu's business environment and in enhancing its understanding of WTO principles. Members 
commended Vanuatu on the notification of its category A, B, and C commitments under the TFA. 
They appreciated its active role in the WTO negotiations on fisheries su bsidies and commended it on 
its efforts to combat IUU fishing activities. They noted that the services sector is the mainstay of the 
economy, contributing about two -thirds to GDP. It was recognized that, due to Vanuatu's increasing 
popularity as a travel d estination, the sector is largely driven by tourism, which is a major foreign 
exchange earner and provider of formal employment. The information and communications 
technology (ICT) and transport subsectors also gained important momentum in the past years.  
3.128.   On its development strategy, Members noted the challenges remaining in some areas, 
including the need to step up efforts to diversify the production and export base, and alleviate 
 
95 The summaries provided in this Section draw on the Chair's concluding remarks for  each of the TPRs.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 78 - 
 
  poverty and promote social inclusion, particularly in rural areas. They enco uraged further domestic 
regulatory reforms to continue improving the business environment, with a view to facilitating 
commercial activity and stimulating growth. Members also took note of Vanuatu's positive steps to 
establish and strengthen an intellectua l property rights protection regime, including the institution 
of the Vanuatu Intellectual Property Office. Concern was expressed regarding applied rates 
exceeding bound rates for some tariff lines. Members strongly encouraged Vanuatu to ratify the TFA. 
They also urged it to fulfil its notification obligations in areas such as agriculture, SPS, TBT, customs 
valuation, import licensing, and contingency measures. They noted the significance of the agriculture 
sector for exports and rural development and encou raged Vanuatu to further support the 
improvement of rural living standards, for example through better access to credit and basic energy 
services.  
Armenia : 20 and 22 November 2018  
3.129.   Members noted Armenia's improvement in its economic and trade performance si nce its first 
review, in particular its recovery from the 2008 global financial crisis, with an average annual GDP 
growth rate of 4%. They recognized that its economy was characterized by low inflation, declining 
poverty and significant progress in enhanci ng its macroeconomic stability, in which trade in goods 
and services (equivalent of 87% of GDP) played a growing role. Members praised Armenia's general 
openness to FDI, and its recognition of the important contribution it can have on economic 
development.  They welcomed its efforts to pursue broader economic partnerships by acceding to 
the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in 2015, to the EU -Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced 
Partnership Agreement (CEPA), in 2018 and to several FTAs. Members were encouraged by  the 
advances towards further economic integration into the world economy, and the objectives of the 
Development Strategy 2014 -25. They recognized Armenia's positive record of fulfilling its 
WTO transparency commitments. Encouraging Armenia to continue its  constructive engagement 
with the WTO, Members commended it on its accession to the GPA in 2011 and to the revised 
agreement in 2015, and more recently on its ratification of the TFA in 2017. Members noted that, 
further to notifying its A, B and C category  commitments, Armenia had already implemented many 
of the B  category commitments earlier than indicated in the notification.  
3.130.   On the other hand, Members noted the challenges remaining in some areas, including the 
country's vulnerability to external shocks, and the need to step up efforts to diversify the narrow 
production and export base, which continue to be concentrated in the mining and tourism sectors 
and are reliant on a limited number of trading partners. They were also interested in better 
understandi ng the impact of membership of the EAEU on Armenia's trade policy and its WTO 
obligations. Several issues were raised in this regard: (i) accession to the EAEU had led to tariff 
increases on many tariff lines, with the average applied tariff increasing fro m 2.7% in 2009 to 7.5% 
in 2018. Noting that it was currently engaged in negotiations with interested parties under GATT 
Articles XXIV and XXVIII, Members hoped that Armenia would be able to conclude these negotiations 
at an early date; (ii) on TBT and SPS measures, Armenia was asked to clarify, inter alia , the status 
in Armenia of EAEU technical regulations not yet notified to the WTO; (iii) concerns about certain 
legislative changes in government procurement as a result of Armenia's EAEU accession, such as  
harmonized EAEU blacklisting provisions and their compatibility with the GPA; and (iv) clarifications 
of recent amendments to harmonize national competition law with that of the EAEU. Members 
encouraged Armenia to make further efforts in its WTO notificat ions in the areas of: import licensing 
and QRs; subsidies and countervailing measures; and domestic support for agriculture. They 
encouraged it to become a party to the ITA, and to ratify the protocol amending the TRIPs 
Agreement. At the same time, they en couraged further domestic regulatory reforms to continue the 
improvement of the business environment, with a view to facilitating commercial activity and 
stimulating sustainable growth. Members also highlighted that they wanted to see more effective 
enforc ement and progress in Armenia's capacity -building in the protection of IPRs.  Noting that 
cigarette and other tobacco product manufacturing was becoming increasingly important as a source 
of revenue, Members encouraged Armenia to continue its efforts to co ntrol illicit trade in tobacco 
products.  
Hong Kong, China: 26 and 28 November 2018  
3.131.   Members commended Hong Kong, China's strong commitment to, and support for, the 
multilateral trading system. In particular, on its active role in the MC11 joint initiatives on investment 
facilitation for development, MSMEs, services domestic regulation, and electronic commerce. 
Hong Kong, China was highly praised for maintaining one of the most open and market -oriented WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 79 - 
 
  economies in the world, and for achieving rob ust economic growth, despite a challenging external 
environment. It was congratulated for being the first Member to accept the TFA. Its participation in 
plurilateral trade initiatives, including the revised GPA and the expansion of the ITA, was also 
acknow ledged. Some Members noted that Hong Kong, China had not made any use of special and 
differential treatment in recent years. Overall, Members praised Hong Kong, China for its open, 
transparent and efficient trade regime. They commended it for maintaining a  tariff-free import 
regime with very few import restrictions, no legislation pertaining to anti -dumping, countervailing 
and safeguard measures, and relatively simple TBT and SPS systems. Hong Kong, China continued 
to implement measures to further streamlin e customs procedures and facilitate trade. Members 
welcomed the full implementation of the AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) program, the 
conclusion of several mutual recognition agreements concerning AEO's, and the forthcoming 
implementation of the Trade  Single Window (the first phase was scheduled for end -2018). They 
acknowledged that Hong Kong, China's good economic performance was underpinned by sound 
macroeconomic fundamentals, including a healthy fiscal balance and a strong external financial 
positio n, as well as a business -friendly environment, transparent regulatory settings and modern 
infrastructure. They further noted that Honk Kong, China's liberal approach to trade and investment 
had enabled it to obtain some of the highest rankings in major wor ld indicators of competitiveness, 
economic freedom and ease of doing business. It was recognized that Hong Kong, China's highly 
outward -oriented economy was particularly sensitive to global trade tensions, rising protectionism 
and heightened volatility in financial markets. The importance of the services sector to the economy 
of Hong Kong, China, and its orientation towards a knowledge -based society, were highlighted, and 
Members acknowledged its achievements as a major global trade, finance and logistics c enter. They 
also welcomed the entry into force of its first Competition Ordinance in 2015. Changes recently 
introduced by Hong Kong, China to its government procurement regime were also acknowledged, 
with some Members expressing interest in further discuss ing its implementation of the GPA and 
opportunities for foreign supplier participation. Members took note of the steps taken by Hong Kong, 
China to upgrade its intellectual property regime and enforcement capacity and welcomed the 
adoption of legislation t o establish an original grant patent system. They noted with interest Hong 
Kong, China's active engagement in bilateral and regional trade agreements (such as those signed 
with the ASEAN nations, Georgia, and Macao, China), and the recent conclusion of an FTA with 
Australia. They also noted its increasingly deep economic and financial integration with Mainland 
China through the conclusion of four subsidiary agreements to the Closer Economic Partnership 
Arrangement (CEPA).  
3.132.   On the other hand, noting that half  of its tariff schedule remained unbound, some Members 
encouraged Hong Kong, China to expand the coverage of its tariff bindings to enhance the 
predictability of its trade regime. They encouraged it to further liberalize its services markets 
(particularly in professional services) and make efforts to follow the best practices of administrative 
transparency. Some Members expressed concerns regarding IPR enforcement in the digital 
environment and the transit of counterfeit and other infringing goods through H ong Kong, China. 
They also encouraged it to press ahead with the adoption of new copyright legislation. Noting that 
merger rules only apply to the telecommunications sector, some Members encouraged it to consider 
extending the scope of these provisions.  
Nepal: 3 and 5 December 2018  
3.133.   Members commended Nepal on its positive economic performance during the review period 
(average annual real GDP growth rate of 4.4%). This was achieved despite being hit by big 
earthquakes in 2015 that caused considerable loss of lives, and damage to infrastructure and 
production. It was noted that Nepal is taking steps to diversify its narrow production and export 
base, which continue to be concentrated in textiles, clothing and agricultural products, and are reliant 
on a limited number of trading partners, particularly India. Members appreciated Nepal's relatively 
open trade regime, with a simple average MFN applied tariff of 12% in 2018. They praised its general 
openness to FDI, and its recognition of the important contribution i t can have on economic 
development. Nepal also took several steps to further liberalize its trade regime, including ongoing 
programs on import procedures, and the electronic government procurement system. Moreover, 
new laws were enacted, such as the Indust rial Enterprises Act, 2016, the Special Economic Zone 
Authority Act, 2016, and the Labour Act, 2017, while other laws are being drafted, notably a new 
single tax code to improve, consolidate and harmonize the main domestic taxes. Nepal was praised 
for its ratification of both the TFA and the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement. Members noted 
that, further to notifying its Category A, B and C commitments under the TFA, Nepal's Customs 
Reform and Modernization Strategies Action Plan will be fully adopted by  2021, and the National WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 80 - 
 
  Customs Single Window is being implemented. Members welcomed Nepal's adoption of its new 
Constitution in 2015. In response, Nepal stated that the new Constitution laid down a solid 
foundation for the country's socio -economic transfo rmation. Political stability should allow Nepal to 
update legislation and enact laws which were in development at the time of the last TPR, for example 
a bill on safeguards, anti -dumping and countervailing measures.  
3.134.   Members encouraged Nepal to continue it s economic reform process, including through its 
National Trade Integration Strategy, and address its supply -side constraints, notably high transit 
and transportation costs. This, in turn, would enable Nepal to tackle its growing remittances -induced 
trade deficit, further reduce poverty, and achieve its objectives of graduating from LDC status by 
2022 and becoming a middle -income country by 2030. Member asked Nepal to fulfil its outstanding 
WTO notifications, including in the areas of domestic support for a griculture, customs valuation, 
import licensing, and services. Some Members asked it to become an observer to the GPA and the 
ITA and consider joining ongoing discussions on the MC11 Joint Initiatives. Questions were asked 
about Nepal's two overlapping reg ional agreements, the South Asia Free Trade Area (SAFTA) and 
the Framework Agreement on the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi -Sectoral Technical and Economic 
Cooperation (BIMSTEC), and about Nepal's 17 bilateral trade agreements. On its trade regime, 
Memb ers expressed concern over certain areas, i.e. (i) cases when applied MFN tariffs exceed bound 
rates; (ii) the simplification of the corporation tax and excise duty systems; (iii) an increase of efforts 
towards regulatory transparency; and (iv) the investm ent of more resources on its standardization 
and conformity assessment infrastructure. On FDI, Members encouraged Nepal to continue 
liberalizing its investment regime and address issues of institutional capacity to attract larger 
FDI inflows, with a view t o facilitating commercial activity and stimulating sustainable growth. While 
acknowledging progress regarding IPRs, including through the IP Policy 2017, Members urged Nepal 
to more effectively enforce competition policy and protection of IPRs. It was ackn owledged that 
Nepal aims to double agricultural production in the next five years, shift a large part of the population 
to off-farm and other emerging sectors, and develop a trade surplus for agricultural goods. Members 
showed interest in Nepal's plans to facilitate FDI in hydroelectricity and provide clean energy. Based 
on tourism -related receipts, Nepal became a net exporter of services during the review period, and 
it targets welcoming two million tourists under its "Visit Nepal 2020" program. Improving 
connectivity, particularly with respect to telecoms and transport, is an imperative for raising 
efficiency of the economy and the competitiveness of Nepalese exports.  
United States: 17 and 19 December 2018  
3.135.   The United States was complimented for being among  the main architects of a rules -based 
international trading system that underpinned decades of economic growth and prosperity at home 
and abroad . Members highlighted the historical  leadership role of the United States in the GATT and 
the WTO, and expressed  their commitment to engage with the United States on constructive 
proposals to improve the functioning of the rules -based multilateral trading system . Members were 
of the view that the trade and investment regime of the United States remained overall open  and 
liberal. The United States had bound all its tariffs, except for two tariff lines, and the simple average 
applied tariff rate was 4.8% , with little or no tariff escalation. Taking account of trade preferences, 
nearly 70% of all imports entered duty fr ee. The United States had taken measures to further 
facilitate trade, by completing the deployment of core capabilities in its Automated Commercial 
Environment. It strongly backed the entry into force of the TF A and was supporting other 
WTO Members in impl ementing it. Several Members appreciated the renewal of trade preferences 
granted under the GSPs and the AGO A. They noted that the U.S. economy had performed well since 
the last Review. The economy was in its ninth consecutive year of expansion, more recen tly also 
stimulated by a pro -cyclical fiscal policy. The unemployment rate was at its lowest level in 50 years, 
consumer and business confidence were high, and inflation remained subdued. Strong economic 
growth had been accompanied by a widening current ac count deficit. The United States remained a 
net exporter of services, and the leading exporter of goods and services that embody intellectual 
property. It was both a top source and destination for FDI . Regarding services, it was noted that the 
U.S. economy  is open to foreign service providers, with limited exceptions, and that regulatory 
processes are transparent, accessible and open to public input. Members also noted the 
United  States' efforts to reform global agriculture trade. On the negotiating front, appreciation was 
expressed regarding the productive engagement of the United States on services domestic regulation 
disciplines, its determination to establish WTO rules prohibiting harmful fisheries subsidies, and its 
active role in the Joint Statement In itiative on Electronic Commerce .  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 81 - 
 
  3.136.   Member s noted that a shift had occurred in U.S. trade policy, with a distinct new emphasis 
on national security considerations in the pursuit of free, fair and reciprocal trade relations. The five 
pillars of the current  U.S. Trade Policy Agenda were repeatedly highlighted: the adoption of trade 
policies supporting the national security policy, the building of a stronger U.S. economy, the 
negotiation of better trade deals, vigorous enforcement of domestic trade laws and righ ts under 
existing trade agreements, and the reform of the multilateral trading system . Several Members 
stressed the increasingly active recourse to anti -dumping and countervailing measures by the 
United  States, as well as their long duration, and expressed  their reservations with respect to certain 
methodologies used in investigations. It was also noted that, in the period under review, the 
United  States had applied global safeguard measures on solar cell products and large residential 
washing machines. In addition, the United States had acted under Section 232 of the Trade 
Expansion Act of 1962, related to U.S. national security, in the form of additional tariffs on imports 
of steel and aluminum products. It had also taken action as a result of an investiga tion under 
Sectio n 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 . Members also raised concerns with respect to the introduction 
of new "Buy American" provisions with respect to government procurement legislation. The low 
uptake of international standards in the United Stat es, which may result in unnecessary trade 
barriers, was noted, as well as the level of protection of geographical indications, that some 
considered insufficient. The need to reform outdated maritime and cabotage legislation was stressed. 
Some Members quest ioned the effect on third parties of the introduction of new rules of origin in the 
automotive sector , resulting from the renegotiation of regional trade agreements . Some reiterated 
their longstanding concerns regarding aspects of U.S. agricultural policy,  particularly the limited 
market access for sugar, dairy and cotton, high tariffs, and the continued use of trade -distorting 
support. The launch of a US D 12 billion aid package for agricultural producers hurt by market 
disruption and retaliatory tariffs wa s attracted wide interest . Members noted that the WTO was facing 
unprecedented challenges, and that positive initiatives to deal with them could include steps to 
strengthen the notification and transparency functions of the WTO, enhance compliance, and end  
the impasse regarding the dispute settlement mechanism . In the view of the Members, although the 
short-term economic outlook for the United States remained positive, mounting public debt, higher 
interest rates, and increasing trade tensions were of concern . It was in this context that the 
continued support and commitment of the United States to a predictable, rules -based multilateral 
trading system took on a critical dimension, for its trading partners, but also for the long -term 
economic well -being of the United States itself.  
Ecuador: 5 and 7 March 2019  
3.137.   Members appreciated Ecuador's participation in the multilateral trading system and took 
note that the development dimension was crucial for the country. They welcomed its continued 
efforts to submit  notifications to the WTO, and its contribution to the negotiations on fisheries 
subsidies. It was also noted that Ecuador was a signatory to some of the MC11 initiatives. Members 
congratulated Ecuador for its recent ratification of the TFA. They acknowled ged the adoption of 
several measures to facilitate trade, such as the implementation of an electronic customs system, a 
single window for foreign trade, and a risk management system, as well as the introduction of an 
AEO scheme. Ecuador was praised for res toring macroeconomic stability in the aftermath of the 
balance of payments crisis, which occurred during the review period. It was noted that GDP had 
grown at an average annual rate of 3% between 2011 and 2017, leading to an increase in per capita 
GDP and a decrease in poverty. Members welcomed the significant decline of oil, and the increase 
of agricultural and fish products in the share of exports. Members appreciated Ecuador's steps to 
phase out its BOP measure. Ecuador also actively pursued further regi onal integration and concluded 
an agreement with the European Union and the EFTA countries. Members appreciated the significant 
changes in the IPR legal framework.  
3.138.   Ecuador remains highly dependent on oil exports, which renders the economy vulnerable to 
commodity price fluctuations in world markets. In this respect, Members urged it to continue its 
efforts towards diversification to reduce its vulnerability to external shocks. Ecuador's economy was 
severely affected by the decline in oil prices in 2014 -15, which led to an increase in the current 
account deficit and a sharp decline in reserves. To deal with the crisis, among other measures, in 
2015-17, Ecuador adopted a BOP safeguard in the form of tariff surcharges, affecting some 40% of 
its tariff lines. So me Members noted that their bilateral trade had been affected by this measure and 
considered it to be Ecuador's most important trade policy issue. Overall, Members urged Ecuador to 
adopt the appropriate policies to deal with challenging economic situations , so that in the future 
there would be no need to resort to the use of similar import -restrictive measures. The fiscal deficit 
did not decline as planned, and the public debt increased; some Members were of the view that WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 82 - 
 
  servicing the accumulated debt coul d be costly. While noting that dollarization had served the 
economy well, it had also limited Ecuador's policy options and increased its dependency on exports 
and inflows of capital. Observing that FDI, a traditional source of financing in the country, had  
declined since 2014, Members urged Ecuador to further open its economy to foreign investment by 
enhancing the predictability and transparency of its policies. In this context, Members enquired about 
Ecuador's decision to rescind bilateral investment prote ction agreements and encouraged it to take 
the necessary steps to provide an appropriate framework for the resolution of disputes. Some 
Members noted that Ecuador still used many pre -import control documents, including registration of 
importers, prior impo rt permits and authorizations, and non -automatic licensing. Ecuador was 
encouraged to consider simplifying such requirements and increase efforts towards regulatory 
transparency, in order to reduce trade costs. Members observed that tariffs were used as an  
instrument to promote industrial policy and could be modified as required. It was noted that, in 
addition to the BOP safeguard surcharge, the general level of tariffs also increased during the review 
period. They also expressed concern about the predictab ility of the Andean Price Band Mechanism 
and urged Ecuador to supply ad valorem  equivalents. Some noted that applied tariff rates for some 
tariff lines appeared to exceed bound rates. Members remarked that imports of agricultural products 
faced higher tari ffs than imports of non -agricultural products. Concerns were expressed regarding 
some SPS requirements, which could become a barrier to trade. Some Members noted that 
burdensome procedures were affecting their exports of agricultural products, including cu mbersome 
tariff-quota management and long processes for the granting of import licenses, in certain instances 
linked to the availability of domestic production. In addition, Members noted that the Government 
intervened in the marketing and pricing of certa in agricultural commodities. In general, Members 
encouraged Ecuador to increase the transparency of its trade -related agricultural policies. Specific 
questions regarding the implementation of the IPR legal framework, compulsory licensing, and the 
enforceme nt of IPRs were raised. Several Members encouraged Ecuador to join, or at least become 
an observer to, the GPA.  
East African Community (EAC): Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda: 20 and 
22 March 2019  
3.139.   Members praised the EAC countries for their stro ng commitment to the multilateral trading 
system. They commended them on their strong overall economic performance and the concurrent 
improvement in their key socio -economic indicators. This performance was largely supported by 
increased public investments  in infrastructures for transport, energy, and ICT. Members took note 
of the adoption of the Tripartite Agreement, aimed at harmonizing policies between the EAC, the 
Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the Southern African Developme nt 
Community (SADC), and of the progress towards the establishment of the African Continental Free 
Trade Area. Members welcomed progress made in liberalizing intra -community trade through the 
dismantling of tariff and some non -tariff measures, the establis hment of one -stop border posts, the 
introduction of an AEO scheme, and initiatives for the interconnectivity of customs systems. The 
EAC's aspirations for deeper integration were also acknowledged, notably the adoption of the 
East African Monetary Union Pr otocol aimed at establishing a monetary union by 2024.  
3.140.   On the other hand, regarding fiscal deficits, some Members called for fiscal prudence, mainly 
concerning macroeconomic convergence within the EAC and the reduction of Members' reliance on 
border taxes . Further reforms, aimed at improving participation by women in the economy, were 
viewed as a way of making the EAC countries' performance more inclusive. Members sought details 
about regional and national initiatives for implementation of the TFA. They en couraged Burundi and 
Tanzania to promptly ratify it, and invited Kenya and Uganda to submit their outstanding 
notifications of Categories B and C commitments. They requested information about the full 
implementation of the Tripartite Agreement initiatives that aim at addressing concerns relating to 
overlapping memberships. Members recommended further simplification of the customs procedures 
and documentation requirements. They also saw scope for further harmonization of internal taxes, 
standards and technic al regulations,  competition and IPR regimes, and sectoral policies, including 
on services. Some Members urged the EAC countries to limit their frequent and extensive recourse 
to waivers from the common external tariff (CET). Concerns were also expressed ab out the increase 
in non -ad valorem  duties under the CET. The EAC countries were urged to ensure compliance with 
their tariff binding commitments and to continue improving their adherence to WTO disciplines on 
notifications, customs valuation, SPS, TBT, and  IPRs. They were encouraged to become observers 
to the GPA, and some Members invited them to join the initiatives on investment facilitation, MSMEs 
and electronic commerce, given the recent efforts to modernize their ICT infrastructures.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 83 - 
 
  Bangladesh: 3 and 5 April 2019  
3.141.   Members praised Bangladesh for its strong support  for, and active participation in , the 
multilateral trading system, as well as for its role as a prominent coordinator for LDCs at the WTO. 
It was also commended for expanding its WTO commitment s, including through TFA r atification.  
Members  congratulated Bangladesh for its achievements in trade facilitation, including the 
implementation of the AEO system, as well as measures to make customs formalities and procedures 
simpler, more transparent , and more efficient, including through the Customs Modernization Action 
Plan 2013 -17 and plans to establish a national single window for traders by end -2021. Members 
commended it on its strong economic performance, which was enabled by prudent macroeconomic 
management. Robust GDP growth over the period under review led to  a reduction in poverty and an 
improvement of other social indicators . It also  enabl ed Bangladesh to cross the World Bank's 
threshold for lower -middle -income countries in 2015 , and to be on tr ack to graduate from LDC status 
by 2024. Members  commended Bangladesh on its  implement ation of several policies, including 
Vision s 2021 and 2041, the National Industrial Policy 2016, and the Export Policy 2018 -21, and o n 
its efforts in areas of regulatory reform, taxation and improving its business environment, including 
the One -Stop Shop Act and promoting trade facilitation . Some Members appreciated its efforts in 
implementing the regulatory and institutional framework for competition policy , and in  streng thening 
its IPR protection legislation . Its participation in several RTAs was also noted.  
3.142.   On the other hand, Members stressed, that in order to keep the growth momentum and 
address post -LDC graduation challenges, Bangladesh would have to engage further in ongoing 
reforms, which would enhance the diversification of its economy and the competitiveness of its 
industries, as well as improve its business environment and fiscal conditions. Bangladesh was 
encouraged to consider joining the WTO Government Procureme nt Agreement as an observer, and 
to participate actively in the joint statement initiatives on e -commerce, investment facilitation, 
MSMEs, and women's empowerment agreed at the MC11  in Buenos  Aires. Members noted 
Bangladeshi's record of WTO notifications, and encouraged the strengthening of efforts in this area 
and the furthering of regulatory transparency. Despite praise for the use of mainly ad valorem  tariff 
rates, some concern was raised re garding the overall gap between the simple averages of bound 
rates and MFN applied rates and the lack of predictability that this gap could lead to. Consequently, 
Bangladesh was encouraged to find ways to provide more certainty to importers and traders. Ot her 
issues were raised on climate change vulnerability, efforts at improving workers' safety, 
diversification of the economy, policies to encourage privatization, expansion of special economic 
zones, power generation capacity, transport infrastructure deve lopment, regulatory guidelines for 
pharmaceuticals and medical devices, support to the textiles sector, development of the ICT sector, 
liberalization of trade in services, and challenges to the banking sector.  
Samoa: 10 and 12 April 2019  
3.143.   Members praised Sa moa for the overall good performance of the economy, with an annual 
GDP growth rate of close to 2% in the period 2012 -18. The economy proved resilient in the face of 
the devastation caused by cyclones Evan (2012) and Gita (2018), as well as the closure of the 
country's largest manufacturing plant in 2017. They commended Samoa on its commitment to 
engage in an open, non -discriminatory and transparent multilateral trading system. Members 
congratulated Samoa on the reforms undertaken since its accession, in ar eas such as customs 
legislation and clearance procedures, taxation, SPS legislation, and competition policy. They also 
welcomed the reforms aimed at strengthening its IPR regime and joining certain WIPO treaties, while 
recognizing Samoa's recent accession to the International Registration of Marks Protocol of the 
Madrid Agreement. Members noted that the average applied MFN tariff rate of 11.5% in 2018 is 
virtually unchanged since its WTO accession in 2012. It was noted that Samoa was the first Pacific 
Island WTO Member to ratify the TFA in 2016. Members welcomed Samoa's active participation in 
the negotiations on fisheries subsidies and its sponsorship of the MC11 Ministerial Statement on 
Fossil Fuels Subsidies Reform, and of the Joint Declaration on Trade a nd Women's Economic 
Empowerment. They noted that Samoa is a party to the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement 
(PICTA), and benefits from preferences granted by Australia and New Zealand under the 
South  Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Co -operation A greement (SPARTECA). Samoa informed 
Members that it is due to ratify the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER 
Plus) between the Forum Island Countries, and Australia and New Zealand, by June 2019  
3.144.   At the same time, Members recognized t he major challenges SAMOA faces in achieving 
higher economic growth and attracting more investment, owing to its remoteness and small WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 84 - 
 
  domestic market, and vulnerability to natural disasters. They invited it to further enhance its 
participation in the WTO, by fulfilling outstanding notification obligations in areas such as agriculture, 
customs valuation, SPS and TBT. Some Members invited Samoa to reduce its tariff peaks. The 
Samoan delegation announced that the HS 2017 nomenclature would be introduced this y ear. 
Several Members noted with concern that the applied tariff rates on certain products appear to 
exceed Samoa's tariff. Some Members sought clarification regarding the implementation of the 
planned 20% excise tax on food items with a high fat, sugar or salt content. They sought clarification 
from Samoa on several issues, including the SPS import list maintained by the Samoa Quarantine 
Services, its intention to join the GPA as an observer, price control policy, FDI restrictions maintained 
on fishing, reg ulatory challenges regarding Money Transfer Operators, and the regulatory regime for 
offshore financial services providers. They also showed interest in Samoa's fisheries policies, efforts 
to diversify the export base, the economic benefits of the new subm arine cables, and progress in 
the economic empowerment of Samoan women.  
Papua New Guinea: 8 and 10 May 2019  
3.145.   Members commended Papua New Guinea for its positive economic performance during 
2010-18 which was attributed, among other, to prudent macroeconomic management and increased 
revenues from LNG exports. They highlighted that despite its considerable exposure to natural 
disasters and climate change, PNG had managed to achieve reasonably strong rates of economic 
growth for most of the review period and mai ntain a positive economic outlook. Against the 
background of the growing role of trade in its economy, PNG's strong commitment to the WTO was 
greatly appreciated. Members welcomed PNG's notification of its Category A commitments under the 
TFA and praised i t for having deposited its instrument of acceptance, and for having accepted the 
Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement. Members noted with satisfaction that PNG's simple 
average applied tariff was 3.9% in 2019, down from 5.1% in 2010. They recognized its i mportant 
leadership role in regional integration efforts. Several Members commended PNG for its efforts at 
making economic growth more inclusive and for promoting the participation of women. Papua New 
Guinea was praised for adopting its first ever National  Trade Policy, covering the period  2017-32. 
Members also noted PNG's general openness to foreign investment. On agriculture, many Members 
noted the significance of this sector for PNG's exports and rural development and praised PNG for 
having submitted its  first domestic support notification to the WTO. They noted PNG's constructive 
engagement in fisheries subsidies agreement negotiation. On services, it was noted that PNG's vast 
potential for attracting foreign tourists and fostering employment and economi c growth remains 
largely untapped. Some Members underlined the importance of continued technical assistance for 
PNG's enhanced participation in the WTO.  
3.146.   On the other hand, Members noted that a big earthquake in 2018 had caused extensive 
damage, weakening PNG's external position and creating fiscal challenges. They indicated that 
further regulatory reforms and opening of the economy would stimulate commercial activity and 
growth. At the same time, PNG was encouraged to step up efforts to diversify its produ ction and 
export base, as well as to alleviate poverty and promote social inclusion, particularly in rural areas. 
They hoped that, together with the newly established National Trade Office, it would help to make 
PNG's business environment more competitive.  Several Members mentioned with concern that 
applied tariff rates on certain products appeared to exceed their corresponding bound rates. In their 
written questions, some Members also flagged recent tariff increases on approximately 300  lines. 
Members stro ngly encouraged PNG to notify its Category B and C commitments under the TFA and 
urged it to fulfil its notification obligations in areas such as agriculture, SPS, TBT, customs valuation, 
and import licensing. PNG was also invited to consider joining the G PA and the ITA and participating 
in the Joint Statement Initiative on Electronic Commerce. Concerns were raised about its 
membership in overlapping RTAs. Members sought clarification on several issues, including plans to 
simplify customs clearance through the creation of a single window for traders, the status of PNG's 
Tariff Reduction Program, the outdated SPS and TBT regimes, the scientific basis for certain import 
restrictions, draft legislation concerning AD, CVD and SG measures, the competition regime and the 
role of state -owned enterprises vis-à-vis private firms, efforts to develop a national IP plan and align 
the existing legal framework to the WTO TRIPS Agreement, and implementation of public -private 
partnership and government procurement reforms. P NG was urged to further improve essential 
infrastructure, especially electricity, telecommunications, and transport, much of which is still 
operated by state -owned, including monopoly, enterprises. PNG was encouraged to pursue further 
improvement of rural living standards, for example through better access to credit and basic energy 
services. On services, some Members enquired about its control and monitoring capacity and policies WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 85 - 
 
  on foreign flagged fishing vessels. Interest was expressed about the developm ent of LNG projects, 
the key driver of PNG's economic growth, and its impact on other sectors.  
Trinidad and Tobago: 22 and 24 May 2019  
3.147.   Members commended Trinidad and Tobago for positive developments in economic indicators, 
such as declining inflation and l ow unemployment. To address its declining and volatile revenue from 
the energy sector, the Government launched various reform plans including "Vision 2030", the 
National Aid for Trade Strategy, the National E -Commerce Strategy, as well as its sector polici es for 
e-commerce, special economic zones, ICT development, the yachting industry and the national 
quality system. Members appreciated the active role played by Trinidad and Tobago in the WTO, 
including in the negotiating groups. They were pleased to see t hat Trinidad and Tobago accepted 
the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement in 2013 and ratified the TFA in 2015. They were 
encouraged by the steps taken by Trinidad and Tobago to improve its government procurement 
regime through the new Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Property Act. Members 
commended Trinidad and Tobago for the ongoing modernization of its customs infrastructure. The 
introduction of a single electronic window in 2012 had already contributed significantly to trade and 
business facil itation, and they noted note that Trinidad and Tobago is making efforts to further 
improve this tool. Members also welcomed the introduction in 2019 of a new online payment system 
for import tariffs, other taxes, and user fees.  
3.148.   Members noted that during t he period under review the economy of Trinidad and Tobago 
was negatively impacted by fluctuations in oil and gas prices. The economy remains driven by natural 
gas and petrochemical exports, even if the industrial and financial sectors are being developed t o 
diversify the economy. Areas of concern were (i) tariff breaching, where applied MFN rate exceeded 
the corresponding bound rate on 59 tariff lines in 2018, up from 50 in 2011, (ii) import surcharges 
imposed in 1990 which were supposed to be temporary and  that Trinidad and Tobago continued to 
apply new import surcharges. Many Members were interested to know the reasons for applying and 
maintaining these surcharges, and asked Trinidad and Tobago to elaborate on its plans to abolish 
them, and (iii) outstandi ng notifications: which are not up to date or outstanding in several areas, 
including domestic support and export subsidies in agriculture, quantitative restrictions, customs 
valuation, and state trading enterprises. Noting that transparency is essential t o the functioning of 
the WTO, many Members encouraged Trinidad and Tobago to comply with notification requirements. 
Members encouraged Trinidad and Tobago to facilitate access to visas and foreign exchange, with a 
view to establishing a more conducive envi ronment for business and investment, and to join the 
ITA. Some Members suggested areas for improvement in the SPS regime, including reducing 
approval process times for foreign meat -exporting establishments, and increasing predictability and 
clarity of the SPS requirements, particularly regarding the importation of animals. Concerns were 
also expressed over Trinidad and Tobago's announcement of an import prohibition on plastics from 
2019. Some Members urged Trinidad and Tobago to notify the measure to the TB T Committee. Many 
Members viewed IP rights as an important tool to foster creative industries, entrepreneurship, and 
fuel economic growth They expressed interest in knowing more about enforcement actions, 
particularly those intended to address piracy of te levised programming and infringement on the 
Internet through streaming devices.  
Canada: 12 and 14 June 2019  
3.149.   Members commended Canada's work in the WTO and its leadership role in many areas, 
including the Ottawa Group to further WTO reform. They also praised Canada for its contribution to 
the regular work of Committees and for its commitment to strengthening the multilateral trading 
system overall. Several Members noted that Canada was pioneering the pursuit of an inclusive trade 
agenda by taking into account the particular needs of women, MSMEs, and Indigenous peoples in its 
trade and trade -related policies. They  also appreciated its track record in providing timely 
notifications to the WTO. Several Members showed appreciation for Canada's support of LDCs, 
particularly with respect to the Aid -for-Trade and Trade Facilitation initiatives. Members also noted 
the imp ortance of trade for Canada, with aggregate two -way commercial trade flows equivalent to 
65% of GDP. They noted that its average MFN applied tariff had remained relatively stable at 6.1% 
in 2019 and that the number of duty -free tariff lines had increased s ince the last review, to over 
70%. This was partly due to unilateral MFN liberalization under ITA II. Canada was commended for 
having implemented several measures to facilitate trade, including using streamlined border 
processes through various programs. C anada is a major player in agricultural trade as a globally 
competitive exporter. Members acknowledged Canada's efforts to diversify its trade, as exemplified WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 86 - 
 
  by the recently launched Export Diversification Strategy. They commended Canada for its overall 
solid economic performance, with its economy characterized by moderate but improving GDP 
growth, low inflation, a relatively stable federal government debt to GDP ratio, and a declining 
current account deficit. The economy had adjusted to lower oil prices a nd the ensuing deterioration 
of its terms of trade through the implementation of various monetary and fiscal policies. They also 
noted that the unemployment rate (5.8%), was at its lowest level in over 40 years. By maintaining 
an open and competitive econo my, Canada had achieved a high standard of living for its population, 
with GDP per capita exceeding USD 46,000 in 2018. Not only had Canada continued to pursue 
liberalization initiatives in the WTO (e.g. the ITA, fisheries' subsidies, agriculture, domestic  
regulation, and others), it had also been active in pursuing new bilateral or plurilateral agreements 
during the period. Additional market access, as well as the new disciplines incorporated into the 
Canada -EU Comprehensive and Trade Agreement (CETA), the  Canada -Ukraine Free Trade 
Agreement (CUFTA), the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the 
Canada -United States -Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), were all expected to have a further positive 
impact on trade, investment, and employmen t for Canada. The modernization of existing FTAs was 
also noted as an important development. On investment, Members highlighted the importance of an 
open and transparent investment regime as FDI played an important role its economy. Several 
Members express ed appreciation for the implementation of changes to Canada 's internal trade 
regime as the Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT) had been replaced by the Canadian Free Trade 
Agreement (CFTA) in 2017.  
3.150.   At the same time, Members noted that applied tariff averages  continued to differ 
considerably between agricultural and non -agricultural goods and some expressed concern about 
national treatment issues in Canada's regime relating to the taxation and sale of alcoholic beverages. 
It was noted that reduced or zero exci se taxes applied to domestic brewers and to wine made entirely 
from Canadian -grown agricultural products. The importation, inter -provincial/territorial trade, and 
retail sale of alcoholic beverages remained the exclusive business of provincial and territor ial Liquor 
Control Authorities and did not always guarantee a fair and competitive environment. They noted 
that Canada is an active user of trade remedy measures. Members noted its inward -looking supply 
management systems applicable to dairy, eggs, and pou ltry. Canada's supply management was 
underpinned by imports subject to tariff quotas, high out -of-quota tariffs averaging 238.7% for 
dairy, and pricing arrangements and restraints on domestic producers that distorted competition. 
Canada was encouraged to b e transparent in its dairy pricing policies and on any new assistance 
provided to dairy farmers and processors, and to undertake further domestic reforms to demonstrate 
Canada's commitment to global reform of agricultural trade. While there had been some l iberalization 
of investment during the review period, many Members inquired about longstanding restrictions and 
hoped these could be addressed. On tariffs, they noted that averages continued to differ considerably 
between agricultural and non -agricultural goods.  
Republic of North Macedonia: 15 and 17 July 2019  
3.151.   Member's commended North Macedonia for its active role in the WTO. North Macedonia has 
accepted the Protocol amending the TRIPs Agreement, acceded to the Civil Aircraft Agreement, and 
has applied almo st all TFA provisions immediately upon the entry into force of the TFA. Moreover, 
North  Macedonia has demonstrated its openness to new ideas on the evolution of the trading system 
by participating in several Joint Statement initiatives on domestic regulati on in services, electronic 
commerce, MSMEs and in the Declaration on Women and Trade. It is currently in the process of 
accession to the GPA, which it hopes to conclude by the end of 2019. Members highlighted several 
positive aspects of North Macedonia's r ecent economic performance. Economic growth at an average 
annual rate of 2.2% resulted in significant increases in GDP per capita and substantial reductions in 
unemployment and poverty. The period since the previous Review also witnessed improvements in 
certain aspects of the business climate, as illustrated by the change in North Macedonia's ranking in 
the World Bank Index from 29 in 2013 to top 10 in 2019. The almost fivefold increase in FDI inflows 
from 2012 to 2018 was another indicator of the recent im provement in North Macedonia's economic 
performance. Several Members emphasized the significance of the recent resolution of the name 
dispute with Greece under the Prespa Agreement. They noted with appreciation that, as a small 
landlocked country that is v ery dependent upon trade, North Macedonia's trade and investment 
policies seek to use openness to the regional and global economy within the framework of the WTO 
and RTAs to improve the competitiveness of its economy. Members noted North Macedonia's 
strate gic objective of European Union integration and welcomed the progress made by North 
Macedonia in achieving convergence with EU rules in many areas of its trade and economic policy. 
Among the recent changes in specific areas that were mentioned were the inc reased transparency WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 87 - 
 
  and predictability under the new Public Procurement Law, the modernization of the customs 
legislation and procedures, the implementation of trade facilitation measures, and the existence of 
a generally open regime for FDI. They noted an d appreciated updates provided by the Minister on 
the program of modernization of transport infrastructure, on pending notifications and on increased 
training for judges and prosecutors relating to IPR cases.  
3.152.   On the other hand, Members encouraged North Mac edonia to vigorously pursue recently 
initiated structural reforms to improve the functioning of its labour market, reduce the size of the 
informal sector, ameliorate the quality of public institutions and develop a more efficient and fairer 
tax system. Suc h reforms are essential to enable North Macedonia to address the fundamental 
problem of low and stagnant productivity. They were also interested in how North Macedonia will 
implement measures provided for in its recent Economic Growth Plan and Industrial S trategy to 
promote the growth of the manufacturing sector, attract FDI, and promote the development of spill -
over effects of FDI to domestic investment. The question of the cost -effectiveness of the different 
business support schemes applied by North Maced onia was also raised. The need to prioritize the 
modernization of the transport infrastructure and of reducing the reliance on price controls was 
mentioned. Regarding its tariff commitments, a concern was expressed that, according to the 
WTO Secretariat's analysis, applied tariff rates are higher than bound rates in 13 tariff lines and that 
tariffs on agricultural products are generally significantly higher than on non -agricultural products. 
Members noted the clarification by the Minister of Economy, that a pplied tariffs are in conformity 
with the bound rates in eight of the 13 lines. Some Members was noted that in certain areas 
notifications remained outstanding, e.g. domestic support in agriculture, SPS measures and QRs. 
The point was made that effective e nforcement of North Macedonia's IPR regime posed a significant 
challenge in the absence of a system of specialized IPR courts and lack of reliable statistics on IPR 
enforcement. Clarification was sought as to how it conducted risk assessments for SPS purpo ses and 
complied with its notification obligations under the SPS Agreement.  
Suriname: 11 and 13 September 2019  
3.153.   Members commended Suriname on the recent implementation of the Electronic Single 
Window, hoping that this measure would contribute to significan tly reduce clearance times and 
enhance transparency in import procedures, and its accession to the WCO in November 2018. 
Members welcomed the Government's objective, as outlined in its Development Plans, to improve 
the business climate, advance the investm ent framework, and diversify the economy. On WTO 
participation, they welcomed Suriname's plans to consider establishing a permanent mission in 
Geneva.  
3.154.   At the same time, Members took note of Suriname's difficult and highly volatile economic 
environment sin ce 2013, coupled with a relatively low level of diversification, which had led to a 
decline of per capita GDP in US dollar terms. They noted that more and meaningful reforms could 
help Suriname develop and diversify by improving conditions for trade and in vestment. In this 
respect, it was noted that while some constraints and challenges, such as poor infrastructure, are 
shared with countries at a similar stage of development, others are related to outdated national laws 
and public administration shortcoming s that could be improved. Many Members agreed that an 
improvement of the business environment was key for diversification of its economy and an 
increased participation in international markets. With a view to promote foreign investment, 
Members encouraged Suriname to facilitate the registration of new businesses, minimize 
discretionary decision -making, and make approval processes more transparent and predictable. On 
tariffs, Members noted that for nearly 600 tariff lines applied rates continued to exceed bo und rates 
and encouraged Suriname to successfully conclude renegotiations under Article XXVIII. Some 
Members also found that there was scope for Suriname to reduce its applied tariffs. Members 
expressed concerns that approval and implementation of crucial legislation, on issues such as 
customs procedures, investment, trade facilitation, VAT, mining, competition and IPR, had been 
pending, sometimes for more than ten years. As some of these draft laws had already been in the 
process of being prepared at the t ime of its last Trade Policy Reviews, in 2013 and 2004, Members 
urged Suriname to address this backlog in adopting trade -related legislation. In this context, 
Members also encouraged Suriname to ratify the TFA and to fulfil its notification obligations in the 
WTO. Other issues also raised by Members included the ratification of already concluded preferential 
trade agreements, the role of the investment agency InvestSur,, the risk management system for 
imports, plans to introduce legislation on contingency m easures, the privatization of state -owned 
enterprises, the participation of women in the economy, SPS measures on imports, government WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 88 - 
 
  procurement procedures, the management and preservation of forest resources, and support for 
MSMEs.  
Costa Rica: 18 and 20 September 2019  
3.155.   Members expressed appreciation for Costa Rica's support for the multilateral trading system 
and its active engagement in the WTO. It was noted that it had ratified the TFA, participated in the 
ITA negotiations, and, in 2015, become an observ er to the GPA. Members welcomed Costa Rica's 
active participation across a range of topics of importance to the WTO, including electronic 
commerce, services domestic regulation, investment facilitation, women's economic empowerment, 
micro, SMEs, fossil fue l subsidy reform, and environmental goods. Members commended Costa 
Rica's active and constructive engagement in the agriculture and fisheries subsidies negotiations. 
They also recognized Costa Rica's good notification record and its active and constructive  
contributions to committee work in the WTO. The stability and predictability of Costa Rica's trade 
regime was noted as was the fact that it's applied average MFN tariff had remained mainly 
unchanged since the last Review. Costa Rica was commended for its commitment to implement most 
provisions of the TFA immediately on its entry into force, and for taking steps towards the facilitation 
of trade, including the introduction of an electronic payment system and of digital customs clearance 
forms, the implement ation of a Single Window for Trade, and the certification of Authorized economic 
operators (AEOs). Members noted the overall positive achievements of Costa Rica's economy during 
the period under review. Costa Rica had posted an average GDP growth rate of 3 .5% during the 
period since the last review, which had allowed an increase in per capita income of some 20%, and 
for keeping inflation under control. This was linked to the strong role of foreign investment and 
trade. Costa Rica was commended for its adopt ion of clear, predictable and transparent trade policies 
and measures. Members remarked the importance of trade in both goods and services for Costa 
Rica. They noted that, although it was a major exporter of agricultural products, such as pineapples 
and ba nanas, Costa Rica had also become a significant exporter of manufactured goods, such as 
electrical equipment and parts, and that exports of services had continued to increase. Tourism had 
become an important source of foreign exchange. Costa Rica's investm ent regime was open, with 
few barriers to market access. Members recognized Costa Rica's recent ongoing efforts to strengthen 
IP enforcement, such as the issuance of decrees to address piracy issues and the streamlining of the 
tasks of the IP offices. At t he same time, they reiterated the importance of better protection and 
effective enforcement of IPRs. They welcomed the adoption of the new competition law and 
encouraged Costa Rica to continue opening and liberalizing the services sector, in particular the  
financial sector, where state owned institutions were granted advantages for business operations 
and remain primary players. They welcomed the approval and recent implementation of a 
comprehensive fiscal package.  
3.156.   On the other side, Members noted that some  challenges to the quest of keeping the economy 
on a path of sustained and inclusive growth remained. These included dealing with labour market 
rigidities, witnessed by a 10% unemployment rate, continuing with the process of regulatory reform, 
and addressi ng the persistent fiscal deficits resulting in a high debt to GDP ratio. They noted that 
tariffs on agricultural products remained above the average rate of protection. Members also 
highlighted that applied tariffs for three tariff product lines exceeded t heir bound rates. The resort 
to safeguard measures affecting rice were also noted, as was the initiation of a safeguard 
investigation on sugar. The compatibility with multilateral rules of the special tax levied on imported 
but not domestically produced be er was questioned. They highlighted that state ownership and 
participation in the economy remained important, and that some sectors were reserved for public 
investment. It was noted that the State continues to play a major role in financial services, 
commu nications and energy. Members encouraged Costa Rica to further open its agriculture market, 
as they found that restrictions to market access were imposed on some agriculture and agri -food 
products. They questioned the need for maintaining the requirement t o use a customs broker for 
imports or exports. Members encouraged Costa Rica to take steps toward accession to the GPA.  
Peru: 22 and 24 October 2019  
3.157.   Members commended Peru's strong commitment to the multilateral trading system and its 
active participation in the WTO. They also noted Peru's support for MC11 initiatives, such as those 
on e-commerce, MSMEs and women's economic empowerment. Peru was also commended for its 
support for agricultural reform and for a successful agreement on fisheries subsidies' neg otiations. 
Members welcomed Peru's ratification of the TFA and its good notifications record. Peru was praised 
for its unilateral import tariff reductions, which had led to an average MFN tariff of just 2.2% in WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 89 - 
 
  2019; one of the lowest among WTO Members. Me mbers also noted the decrease in the use of trade 
remedies, in particular the lower number of AD investigations initiated. Members welcomed Peru's 
efforts to improve governance and tackle tax non -compliance. Peru was widely praised for its 
commitment to tr ade liberalization and for achieving solid economic growth, with real GDP expanding 
at an annual average rate of 4% between 2013 -18, while maintaining a relatively low level of 
inflation and reducing poverty levels. These positive results have been underpi nned by solid 
macroeconomic policies, including measures to ensure fiscal sustainability. Members also 
commended Peru for maintaining an economic strategy that included unilateral reductions in import 
tariffs, the promotion and diversification of exports, and measures to enhance productivity and 
competitiveness. Peru's commitment to open markets, amidst growing external challenges was 
applauded as was its open investment regime. In addition, Members were appreciative of the 
National Strategic Export Plan 20 15-2025 (PENX 2025), which seeks the internationalization of 
Peruvian enterprises, the increase in exports of value -added goods and services, and the 
enhancement of the competitiveness of the export sector. Members acknowledged that Peru had 
adopted severa l measures geared at facilitating trade. These included the strengthening of the 
Single  Window for Foreign Trade, measures to improve foreign trade logistics, the simplification of 
administrative formalities, and the establishment of a National Trade Facil itation Committee. 
Members acknowledged that Peru had actively pursued the conclusion of FTAs, and that five such 
agreements had been signed, including the Pacific Alliance, and the Comprehensive and Progressive 
Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPT PP), and other bilateral agreements with key trading 
partners. Peru's services regime was very open, and it was noted that recent measures to foster the 
development and competition in the telecommunications sector, and improvements with respect to 
financia l intermediation were significant developments. Efforts to increase the efficiency of its 
government procurement regime and adapt it to best international practices, including 
OECD  recommendations, were noted. Peru was also commended for improvements in th e 
enforcement of IPR. The importance of the mining sector for Peru's economy was highlighted, as 
more than 60% of exports are mineral products. Some Members were appreciative of the sector's 
openness to foreign investment but cautioned against the effects of fluctuating international prices 
and hence welcomed Peru's current efforts to diversify exports.   
3.158.   At the same time, Members noted the need to further alleviate poverty and promote social 
inclusion, particularly in rural areas, to enhance investment in infrastructure and to pursue further 
structural reforms. They referred to trade policy areas where further improvements would be 
welcome. These areas include: different taxation rules on domestic alcoholic beverages (pisco); 
labelling requirements regardin g food packages; GMOs moratorium; and certification of imports of 
processed food of animal origin. Some Members raised questions regarding its standardization and 
accreditation policies and others expressed concerns with respect to the application and effe ct of the 
Price Band System for certain agricultural products, especially rice. Questions were raised regarding 
the protection of geographical indications; damages for copyright infringement; and enforcement 
and judicial remedies. Members noted that more n eeded to be done to enhance financial inclusion. 
In their written submissions, Members raised questions regarding recent changes to lift restrictions 
in maritime cabotage and developments in civil aviation. Some Members invited Peru to consider 
becoming a member of the GPA and to join the expansion of the ITA.  
3.9  Other Selected Trade Policy Issues  
3.159.   The following Section provides a brief overview of the other selected trade policy issues 
where important developments took place during the review period. It also i ncludes follow -up to a 
number of issues which saw outcomes at MC11 in Buenos Aires.  
Regional Trade Agreements  (RTAs)  
3.160.   During the review period, WTO Members notified 15 RTAs (20 notifications) as compared to 
5 RTAs (8  notifications) during the previous perio d (Table  3.28).96 Of the new RTAs, eight relate only 
to trade in goods, seven of which were notified under the Enabling Clause and one under GATT 
Article  XXIV; five RTAs include trade liberalization in both goods and services and were notified under 
GATT Article XXIV and G ATS Article V, while trade liberalization in services only was notified for 
two RTAs. The notifications included two very significant RTAs in terms of the potential share of 
 
96 In addition, the CRTA received a notification from ECOWAS modifying the legal cover of the 
agreement from the Enabling Clause to Article XXIV of GATT 1994, and a notification from Jordan and Turkey 
terminating their FTA.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 90 - 
 
  trade: the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership ( CPTPP), an 
agreement with 11 parties, ratified by 7 of them, and the FTA between the European Union and 
Japan. Both agreements include provisions to liberalize trade in goods and services, and additional 
provisions.  
Table 3.28 Notifications  of RTAs between 15 October 2018 and 15 October 2019  
RTA name (parties)  Coverage  Date of notification  
(date of entry into 
force)  Notification  
Peru-Honduras  Goods & Services  17/10/18  
(01/01/17)  GATT Art. XXIV & GATS Art. V  
EFTA-Philippines  Goods & Services  26/10/18  
(01/06/18)* GATT Art. XXIV & GATS Art. V  
Comprehensive and Progressive 
Agreement for Trans -Pacific 
Partnership (CPTPP)  Goods & Services  20/12/18  
(30/12/18)** GATT Art. XXIV & GATS Art. V  
European Union -Japan  Goods & Services  14/01/19  
(01/02/19)  GATT Art. XXIV & GATS Art. V  
Hong Kong, China -Georgia  Goods & Services  12/02/19  
(13/02/19)  GATT Art. XXIV & GATS Art. V  
Southern Common Market 
(MERCOSUR) -Israel  Goods  29/03/19  
(23/12/09)  GATT Art. XXIV  
Asia Pacific Trade Agreement 
(APTA)  Services  17/06/19  
(17/09/13)  GATS Art. V  
Morocco -United Arab Emirates  Goods  19/06/19  
(09/07/03)  Enabling Clause  
Ecuador -Mexico  Goods  23/07/19  
(01/05/83)  Enabling Clause  
Mexico -Paraguay  Goods  23/07/19  
(01/01/84)  Enabling Clause  
Argentina -Mexico  Goods  23/07/19  
(01/01/87)  Enabling Clause  
Mexico -Cuba Goods  23/07/19  
(28/02/01)  Enabling Clause  
Brazil -Mexico  Goods  23/07/19  
(02/05/03  Enabling Clause  
Mexico -Plurinational State of 
Bolivia  Goods  23/07/19  
(07/06/10)  Enabling Clause  
European Union -Armenia  Services  23/08/19  
(01/06/18)  GATS Art. V  
* Entry into force: 1 June 2018 for Philippines, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Ratification for 
Iceland is still pending and the Agreement has therefore not entered into force for them.  
** Entry into force: 30 December 2018 for Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, 
and 14 January 2019 for Viet Nam. For the rest of the Parties, entry into force would be in 
accordance with Artic le 3 (Entry into Force), paragraph 2, of the CPTPP.  
Source:  RTA Database. Viewed at: http://rtais.wto.org . 
3.161.   As at 15  October  2019, the total number of RTAs notified to the WTO, and to the GATT 
before it and currently in force, amounted to 301 (151 covering goods and services, 148 goods only, 
and 2  services only).97 The WTO Secretariat has also identified and verified, through the respective 
parties, 79 RTAs that are in force, but have not yet been notified to the WTO.98 
3.162.   Judging from overall notifications, RTA activity is strongest in Europe (19% of RTAs in force), 
with successive EU enlargements and agreements with countries in Eastern Europe and around the 
Mediterranean basin, as well as RTAs notified by EFTA; this is followed by East Asia (17%) and 
South  America (13%). These regions also continue to be active in RTA negotiations (Chart  3.20).  
 
97 This figure does not take into account notifications of RTAs made in 2017 that are not yet in force.  
98 WTO document WT/REG/W/141, 2 September 2019.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 91 - 
 
  Chart 3.20 RTAs in force, and under negotiation by region  
 
Note:  RTAs involving countries/territories in two (or more) regions are counted more than once.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.163.   The WTO Members with the most RTAs in force remain the European Union, the EFTA States, 
and Chile, with over 25 RTAs in force each, followed by Singapore, Mexico and Turkey, which have 
over 20  RTAs in force each (Chart 3.21). A  number of other developing countries also have several 
RTAs in force, such as the Republic of Korea, Peru, India and Panama.  
3.164.   While new RTAs continue to be notified to th e WTO, RTA partners are also making changes 
to their existing RTAs to add new provisions or bring them up to date with their trade needs. Most 
notable among these includes the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement 
(NAFTA), renamed the Un ited States -Mexico -Canada Agreement (USMCA), which was signed on 
30 November  2018 by Canada, Mexico and the United States; it has been ratified by Mexico. Other 
RTAs that have been "modernized" include Canada -Chile, Canada -Israel and EU -Mexico. Mexico is 
also a party to the Pacific Alliance (with Chile, Colombia and Peru), which consolidates the parties' 
existing bilateral FTAs and updates other provisions. The African Continental Free Trade Agreement 
(AfCFTA) entered into force in July  2019 and, once remai ning chapters are negotiated, will 
consolidate existing preferential relationships in Africa.  
3.165.   Negotiations for new bilateral and plurilateral RTAs remain strong. MERCOSUR recently 
concluded negotiations with both the European Union and EFTA, and continues to negotiate with 
Canada, the Republic of Korea and Singapore. The United States and Japan concluded the first stage 
of their agreement, covering mainly agricultural products. The United States appears to be 
negotiating similar RTAs in stages with other pa rtners, notably India, China and Brazil. 
The European  Union continues its negotiations (EPA and other) with Australia, New Zealand, India, 
and several ASEAN members; and EFTA with India and several ASEAN members. Negotiations are 
continuing, to complete th e 16-party Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) 
Agreement, which brings together the ten ASEAN member States and six others with which ASEAN 
already has RTAs in force (Australia, China, India, the Republic of Korea, Japan and New Zealand).  
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130EuropeEast AsiaSouth AmericaNorth AmericaCISCentral AmericaAfricaMiddle EastOceaniaWest AsiaCaribbean
Intra-Regional RTAs in force Cross-Regional RTAs in force Early Announcements of RTA NegotiationsRTAs in force, and under negotiation by region
Note:  RTAs involving countrie/territories in two (or more) regions are counted more than once.
Source:   WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 92 - 
 
  Chart 3.21 WTO  Members with the largest number of RTAs in force  
 
Source:  RTA Section, WTO Secretariat.  
Trade Facilitation  
3.166.   The Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) entered into force on 22  February  2017, when 
two thirds of WTO Members presented their corresponding instruments of acceptance. At the 
conclusion of the review period, the data accounted for 146 ratifications, which represents 89 % of 
the WTO  membership. Eight additional instruments of acceptance have bee n received by th e 
Secretariat since October  2018.  
Chart 3.22 Number  of Members that presented TFA notifications, mid -October 2018 to 
mid-October 2019  
 
Source:  https://www.tfadatabase.org . 
3.167.   Members also remained active in the presentation of implementation notifications. 
Sixty-one Members submitted various notifications with their commitments under categories  A, B 
051015202530354045Total N °of physical RTAs
Goods Provisions only Includes Services ProvisionsWTO Members with the largest number of RTAs in force
Source:   RTS Section, WTO Secretariat.
24
46
54
36
14
19Category A
Category B
Category C
Transparency notifications
Arts. 22.1 and 22.2
Art. 22.3Number of WTO Members that presented TFA notifications, mid -May 2019 to mid -Oct 2019
Source:  https://www.tfadatabase.orgWT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 93 - 
 
  and C, of which 24 presented Category A commitments, 46 presented Category B commitments and 
54 presented Category C commitments. Notifications were also made on the transparency side. 
Thirty -six Members presented notifications under Articles 1.4, 10.4.3, 10.6.2 and 12.2.2. 
Furthermore, 14 Members notified their technical assistance and capacity -building activities, in 
accordance with Article 22. Lastly, 19 Members presented notifications under Article 22.3, relating 
to contact points for coordinating capacity -building support  (Chart 3.22) . 
Aid for Trade  
3.168.   The WTO 2019 Global Review of Aid for Trade (AfT), held in Geneva on 3 -5 July 2019 under 
the theme of "Supporting Economic Diversification and Empowerment ", convened over 
1,500  participants in 84 sessions to examine the role of AfT in promoting global trade and 
development. At the Review's opening plenary session, the joint OECD -WTO 2019 Aid for Trade at 
a Glance publication99 was launched, delivering a  strong message on how economic diversifi cation 
and economic empowerment are linked and interdependent, and are both essential for the 
achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the Review, other plenary 
sessions were organized on South -South and triangular cooperation suppo rting economic 
diversification and empowerment; the blue economy and the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement; 
and on LDC graduation. Out of the 17 thematic sessions planned, some focused on the regional 
dimension of AfT, and visited the work of regional deve lopment institutions such as the Asian 
Development Bank (ADB), the Inter -American Development Bank (IDB), the United Nations 
Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and the  Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). Thematic 
issues and other topics covered at the Glo bal Review also included e -commerce; access to trade 
finance vis-à-vis other constraints to trade faced by governments in developing countries (a key 
finding of the 2019 Aid for Trade Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) exercise); women's economic 
empowerment;  youth and MSMEs; trade facilitation; SPS; quality infrastructure; green growth; and 
trade and peace in the context of accessions to the  WTO.  
3.169.   Since the AfT initiative launched at the Hong Kong Ministerial Conference in December 2005, 
seven  consecutive Glob al Reviews have taken place. Disbursements of AfT reached a total of 
USD 409 billion between 2006 and 2017, primarily dedicated to building trade capacity and economic 
infrastructure and to technical assistance. AfT disbursements amounted to USD  43 billion  in 2017, 
an encouraging increase from the USD 23.2 billion baseline average of 2002 -05.  
Trade Financing  
3.170.   On 3 July, the WTO and the International Finance Corporation ( IFC) launched a new 
publication entitled "Trade Finance and the Compliance Challenge: A  Showcase of International 
Cooperation". The publication showcases the mobilization of international organizations after a joint 
meeting at the 2018 Fall Meetings of the IMF and World Bank, during which they pledged to 
cooperate to address the trade finance  impact of the reduction in correspondent banking 
relationships affecting mainly developing countries. Since the end of the financial crisis, perceived 
regulatory risk, combined with the low capacity of the financial sector in some countries, ha d created 
new gaps in trade finance provision  mainly affecting banks in developing and least -developed 
countrie s. The publication highlights  capacity -building activities recently undert aken by the IFC with 
WTO participation in Rw anda, Madagascar, Zimbabwe and Zambia.  It looks at the issues dealt with, 
the insights of participants, as well as the lessons learned.  It also describes similar activities 
organized by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the ADB and the 
Islamic  Development Bank (IsDB) . The WTO Secretariat will continue participating in such 
capacity -building activities in the second half of 2019, notably with the IFC, the African Import and 
Export Bank (a subsidiary of the African Development Bank), and the EBRD.  
Government Procurement  
3.171.   The WTO Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA) continues to gain importance as 
an instrument for promoting trade and good governance in government procurement markets. 
On 5 May 2019, Australia became a fully -fledged party to the GPA, adding significantly to the 
government procurement markets covered by the Agreement and bringing the GPA membership 
 
99 Viewed at: https://www.wto.org/engl ish/res_e/publications_e/aid4trade19_e.htm . WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 94 - 
 
  to 20 (covering 48 WTO Members).100 Paraguay, Ecuador and the Philippines were granted 
observer  status in the Committee on Government Procurement in 2019. Consequently, 
34 WTO Members/Observers can now participate as observers in the Committee.  
3.172.   Significant progress was made on several accessions to the Agreement. On 21  October  2019, 
China circulated its seventh market access offer, which covers more pr ovincial governments and 
state-owned enterprises. The new offer will be subject to GPA Parties' review and comments. China 
also indicated that preparatory work is underway to modify its legislation on government 
procurement. The Russian Federation has also  been pursuing its accession process by engaging in 
internal coordination with a view to covering local government entities in its next offer. 
North  Macedonia has also been making progress in its accession to the GPA, including by bringing a 
new public pro curement law into effect in early 2019. The law makes reference to the GPA and 
includes the principle of non -discrimination. The Kyrgyz Republic's and Tajikistan's accessions are at 
an advanced stage, and the latter indicated that its final offer is pendin g approval from its 
Government.  
3.173.   The United Kingdom's expected future participation in the GPA in its own right was made 
possible by the GPA Committee's approval of a decision in February  2019 on the terms of 
the United  Kingdom's future accession to the GPA . Under this decision, the United Kingdom is 
covered by the GPA as a member State of the European Union until the date of its withdrawal 
therefrom or, if the European Union and the United Kingdom conclude an agreement that provides 
for a transition period during which the EU law would apply to and in the United Kingdom, until the 
date of expiry of that transition period. Following Brexit, the United Kingdom would become a party 
to the GPA in its own right after submission of an instrument of accession at th e earliest 30  days 
before Brexit. On 26  June 2019, the GPA Committee adopted a decision extending the period for 
submission of such an instrument by six months, until 27  February  2020, and updating the terms of 
the United Kingdom's accession in light of th e entry into force of the GPA for Australia on 5  May 2019.  
3.174.   The accessions of four other WTO Members – Albania, Georgia, Jordan and Oman – are 
pending. Another five Members have provisions regarding accession to the Agreement in their 
respective Protocols o f Accession to the WTO, namely Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, 
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Seychelles. During the review period, the Secretariat organized, in 
its own capacity or in cooperation with other international organizations, several global,  regional and 
national workshops on government procurement, which covered market access and good 
governance issues.  
3.175.   The GPA Committee continued to advance its work in relation to the Work Programmes 
established under the GPA concerning, inter alia , (i) sus tainable procurement; (ii) the collection and 
reporting of statistical data; and (iii) SMEs. The purpose of these Work Programmes is to enhance 
transparency, to improve the administration of the GPA and, where relevant, contribute to its future 
evolution. Throughout the review period, the Secretariat, at the Committee's request, continued to 
develop the "e -GPA system"101, an interactive, automated web portal to enhance the accessibility 
and usability of market access and other information provided by Parties pursuant to the GPA.  
Dispute Settlement  
3.176.   During the period under consideration, WTO Members filed fewer complaints about 
trade -restrictive measures than during the previous review period . However, despite this relative 
decline in the number of new cases, th e overall level of dispute settlement activity remain ed high. 
3.177.   Between October 2018 and October 2019, Members requested consultations in 24 new 
cases, compared to 35 such requests made between October 2017 and October 2018. This difference 
can be explained by the exceptionally high number of complaints filed in the first half of 2018. 
A comparison with the two years immediately preceding 2018 shows, nevertheless, that the number 
of new cases initiated by WTO Members over the last year has remained higher tha n figures reported 
in 2016 and 2017 (Chart 3.23). Indeed , during the first nine months of 2019, Members requested 
consultations in as many new cases as for the full years of 2016  and 2017.  
 
100 Counting the European Union and its 28 member States, all of which are covered by the Agreement, 
as one party.  
101 Viewed at https://e -gpa.wto.org . WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 95 - 
 
  Chart 3.23 Number of requests for consultations in new disputes initiated per year, 
1995 -2019  
 
Note:   2019 data are based on the average of the number of active disputes from January to September.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.178.   Between October 2018 and October 2019, 29 panels were composed and commenced work. 
Appeals were filed in 8 disputes. As a result, on average, 55 panel, arbitration and appeal 
proceedings were ongoing each month of the review period  (Chart 3.24) . As at the end of 
September  2019, panels and arbitrators were working, respectively, on 32 panel proceedings and 
on four arbitrations on the determination of the level of suspension of concessions or other 
obligations under Article 22.6 of the DSU. In addition, ten p anels were at the composition stage.  
3.179.   Twelve  appeals were also pending before the Appellate Body  during the review period . 
Four of the seven positions on the Appellate Body remain vacant  and the mandate s of two of the 
current Appe llate Body Members will exp ire in December 2019 . Following several reform proposals, 
Members are actively working with the DSB chair, appointed as a facilitator by the General Council 
to resolve this matter.  
3.180.   During the review period, panels and arbitrators circulated rulings in a to tal of 16 cases and 
the Appellate Body issued nine reports in seven disputes. It should be noted that in four of the 
recently initiated disputes, Members found a mutually agreed solution before circulation of the panel 
reports.  
3.181.   The subject matter of disputes brought to the WTO continues to span a wide range of 
agreements, with claims in the currently active cases under, inter alia , the GATT 1994, the 
Anti-Dumping Agreement, the SCM Agreement,  the Safeguards Agreement, the GATS, the SPS 
Agreement  and the Agreement on Agriculture . As in previous years, both developed and developing 
country Members have been involved in dispute settlement proceedings, as complainants, 
respondents , and third parties.  
253950
41
3034
2337
26
19
1220
1319
1417
827
20
1413171738
17
0102030405060Number of requests for consultations in new disputes initiated per year, 1995 -2019
Source: WTO Secretariat.Note: 2019 data are based on the average of the number of active disputes from January to September.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 96 - 
 
  Chart 3.24 Average number of ongoing dispute proceedings per month, 1995 -2019  
 
Note:  2019 data are based on the average of the number of active disputes from January to September . 
Several disputes are counted as one if they deal with the same  subject matter. Annual averages are 
calculated on the basis of the number of ongoing proceedings per month (January to December) 
over the yearly period concerned (e.g. in 2017, 39 proceedings were ongoing per month, on 
average).  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Trade and Environment  
3.182.   Debates at recent meetings of the Committee on Trade and Environment (CTE) have 
continued to raise important global issues at the intersection between trade and environmental 
policies. For instance, delegations have discussed and share d information on, inter alia, integrating 
environmental and social considerations in trade policies, approaches regarding the implementation 
of environmental provisions and institutions in RTAs, strategies to promote a sustainable ocean 
economy, efforts to  address plastic pollution, the promotion of environmental goods, development 
of global environmental standards, technical challenges in implementing traceability schemes, and 
Members'  actions on fossil fuel subsidy reform.102 
3.183.   Several delegations acknowledge d the importance of fossil fuel subsidy reform, shared their 
experience in this area, and supported continued discussions of the topic in the CTE, including any 
potential role for the WTO.103 Some other delegations noted that the phasing -out of inefficient f ossil 
fuel subsidies that encouraged wasteful consumption was a voluntary G20 initiative not linked to 
the WTO, and were of the view that the WTO was not the appropriate venue to discuss such matters. 
At the 30  November  2018 and 15  May 2019 CTE meetings104, discussions continued on this topic, 
with a briefing in May on the recently adopted methodology to measure and collect national data on 
fossil fuel subsidies in the context of Sustainable Development Goal 12(c).  
Fisheries Subsidies  
3.184.   The negotiations on fish eries subsidies in the WTO continued in the Negotiating Group on 
Rules. These are based on the mandate from target 14.6 of the Sustainable Development Goals and 
the Ministerial Decision of the Eleven th WTO Ministerial Conference, to reach by the end of 2019 an 
agreement on disciplines that prohibit certain forms of fisheries subsidies that contribute to 
 
102 Annual Report 2018, WTO document WT/CTE/25 and minutes of the May 2019 CTE meeting, 
WTO document WT/CTE/M/67.  
103 Annual Report 2018, WTO document WT/CTE/25, paras. 2.1 -2.3. 
104 Minutes of the November 2018 CTE meeting, WTO document WT/CTE/M/66.  
28141927
25
1820202327
2324
21
1521
1918212932 32394454
0102030405060Average number of ongoing dispute proceedings per month, 1995 -2019
Note:  2019 data are based on the average of the number of active disputes from January to September. Several 
disputes are counted as one if they deal with the same subject matter. Annual averages are calculated on the 
basis of the number of ongoing proceedings per month (January to December) over the yearly period concerned 
(e.g. in 2017, 39 proceedings were ongoing per month, on average).
Source: WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 97 - 
 
  overcapacity and overfishing, and eliminate subsidies that contribute to illegal, unregulated and 
unreported (IUU) fishing, with appropriate and effective special and differential treatment for 
developing country Members and LDC Members being an integral part of these negotiations.  
3.185.   In July  2019, the Group endorsed the working papers by the four facilita tors for the 
negotiations. This represented an important step forward, although progress across the different 
areas remains uneven. While the working papers include legal language for some provisions, in other 
areas they highlight two or more alternatives for disciplines or highlight areas where disciplines will 
be required and suggest possible ways forward. WTO Members remain committed to the deadline of 
the end of the year to reach agreement, and  are engaged in intensive and detailed discussions based 
on the facilitators' reports and proposals from Members.105 
Electronic Commerce  
3.186.   Discussions on electronic commerce in the WTO are continuing under two parallel tracks – 
multilaterally under the General Council and its relevant subsidiary bodies, as well as unde r the Joint 
Statement  on Electronic C ommerce initiative. At the multilateral level, efforts are ongoing  to 
reinvigorate the 1998 Work Programme on Electronic Commerce as agreed by Ministers at the  MC11 
in Buenos Aires . Members are also discussing the impac t and scope of the decision not to impose 
customs duties on electronic transmissions (the  Moratorium). Since MC11, two proposals on the 
Moratorium have been submitted and discussed. The General Council reviewed the Work Programme 
at its session in July 201 9. In October  2019, the General Council Chair began consultations with 
Members on the way forward on the Work Programme and the Moratorium, with a view to having a 
decision for the General Council's consideration prior to the expiration of the Moratorium i n 
December 2019.  
3.187.   Following exploratory work in 2018 , 76 WTO Members issued a Joint Statement in 
January  2019, launching WTO negotiations on trade -related aspects of electronic commerce. Since 
then, four additional Members have joined the initiative, bring ing the total number of participants to 
80. To date, four substantive meetings focusing on textual proposals have been held. Additional 
substantive meetings are scheduled for October and November. An organizational meeting will be 
held in December. The co -conveners of the discussions encourage all WTO Members to participate 
in order to further enhance the benefits of e -commerce for businesses, consumers and the global 
economy.  Other Members have expressed opposition to these negotiations on the grounds that  they 
are not part of the current negotiating mandate.  
Micro, Small and Medium -sized  Enterprises (MSMEs)  
3.188.   Established in December  2017 at MC11, the Informal Working Group on MSMEs currently 
consists of 90  WTO Members, covering all regions of the world and a ll levels of development. At the 
end of 2018, the Group decided to organize work around various thematic clusters, including access 
to information and transparency, trade finance, trade facilitation, good regulatory practices, and 
outreach activities to WT O Members and other organizations. Some Members continue to oppose, 
or not support, discussions on this issue, noting that it is not part of the original Doha Round 
discussions, and that focusing on DDA issues should be the priority. The discussions in the  Group 
aim to identify a set of concrete, horizontal and non -discriminatory measures that Members could 
take to strengthen MSME participation in global trade. The Group, led by Uruguay, has held 
three  open-ended meetings since November  2018, as well as var ious workshops on 
MSME  cybersecurity, trade facilitation, and access to finance. The Group is now working towards a 
set of recommendations and an updated work programme to be adopted at the next 
WTO Ministerial  Conference in June  2020.  
Women's Economic Emp owerment  
3.189.   Launched in December  2017, in the margins of the MC11 , the Buenos  Aires Declaration on 
Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment provides a platform for WTO  Members to share 
information and best practices on how they have been integrating gender into  their trade policies 
and strategies. The Declaration, signed by 126 WTO Members and Observers, representing 75 % of 
world trade, seeks to ensure that the WTO works to make trade more inclusive and increases the 
 
105 On 8 November 2019, the Negotiat ions Group on Rules elected a new chair.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 98 - 
 
  participation of women in trade. Some Members  oppose discussions on this issue, noting that the 
empowerment of women is not a trade issue.  
3.190.   The Trade Policy Review Mechanism (TPRM) was identified by the signatories of the 
Declaration as one of the WTO instruments which could support Members in gathering and sharing 
information on their trade policies in support of women's economic empowerment. In 2019, as part 
of their TPRs, eight Members (out of ten TPRs) voluntar ily included information on their 
gender -responsive trade policies. Out of these M embers, three dedicated specific chapters/sections 
on this issue. This represents a 30 % increase in the number of Members sharing information on 
gender -related policies in comparison to 2018.  Many Members also continue to integrate gender 
issues in their national development strategies and as part of their trade policy objectives.  
 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 99 - 
 
  4  POLICY DEVELOPMENTS IN TRADE IN SERVICES  
4.1.  Many new measures affecting trade in services were introduced by WTO Members and 
Observers between mid -October 20 18 and mid -October 2019. While most of the new measures are 
trade -facilitating, a significant number of new policies appear to be trade -restrictive, in particular 
measures affecting communication and network -enabled services as well as policies pertaining to 
the review of foreign investment in certain areas considered strategic or linked to national security. 
Annex 4 provides additional information on 142 e ntries for new measures, which concern 
63 WTO Members and 3 Observers.106 
Measures Affecting Supply Through Commercial Presence  
4.2.  Various governments introduced changes to their investment policies that affect the supply 
through commercial presence (mode 3) across various sectors. In March 2019, China  adopted its 
new Foreign Investment Law, which provides for non-discrimination between foreign and domestic 
investors and enterprises, except in sectors set out in a 'negative list'. The new law also prohibits 
forced technology transfers, and stipulates that China may retaliate against countries that 
discriminate a gainst Chinese investments abroad. On 30 July 2019, China  reduced the number of 
sectors where foreign investment is either prohibited or restricted. The 2019 National Negative List 
now contains 40 restricted and prohibited activities, 8 less than in 2018. Modifications include the 
removal of the limit on foreign shareholding in domestic shipping agencies and the elimination of 
the limit on foreign shareholding on the construction and operation of cinemas.  
4.3.  In Thailand , the Ministry of Commerce issued a new regulation, effective from 26 June 2019, 
that exempts certain services activities from the 49% foreign ownership limit under the Foreign 
Business Act. In the Philippines , the government relaxed limitations on foreign investment in 
selected sectors, for exa mple by permitting 100% foreign ownership in Internet businesses and in 
certain higher education services, as well as by increasing from 20% to 40% the foreign ownership 
limit in private radio communications networks. Qatar  adopted a new law allowing wholl y-owned 
foreign investments in most economic sectors, while Algeria , an observer, abolished the rule that 
limited maximum foreign capital ownership in non -strategic sectors to 49%.  
4.4.  On 1 July 2019, Oman  published a new law that aims to streamline procedures and remove 
obstacles to foreign investment. The new framework no longer requires foreign investors to have 
local Omani partners, in activities to be specified in future regulations. In January 2019, India 
allowed foreign companies in the defence, telecom, information and broadcasting, and private 
security sectors to open branch offices, subject to approval from the regulator and the ministry 
concerned. Approval of the Reserve Bank of India is no longer  required. In the United Arab Emirates , 
a new FDI Law, effective since 30  October  2018, established a positive list of sectors where 100% 
foreign ownership is permitted, compared to 49% previously . In July 2019, the Federal Cabinet 
approved 122 economic  activities across 13 sectors that are inscribed on the positive list and eligible 
for 100% foreign ownership, including transport and storage, hospitality and food services, 
information and communications, professional, scientific and technical activities , educational 
services, healthcare, and construction services.  
4.5.  In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia , the Council of Ministers decided to allow foreign investment in 
four sectors where it was previously prohibited: road transport, real estate brokerage, audiovis ual 
services, and recruitment and related services. Further, in June 2019, the Capital Market Authority 
issued new rules removing the 49% foreign ownership limit for investment in listed securities by 
'foreign strategic investors'. Nepal  adopted, on 27 Mar ch 2019, a new law on foreign investment and 
raised the minimum threshold for foreign investment from Rs 5 million to Rs 50 million.  
4.6.  In the United States , the government announced that it ceased, from 2 May 2019, the 
suspension of Title III of the Cuba Li berty and Democratic Solidarity (Libertad) Act of 1996 
"Helms -Burton Act". Title III allows parties whose property was confiscated by the Cuban 
Government in 1959 to sue in courts of the United States companies and individuals who "traffic" in 
the property  in question. The Act prevented individuals and companies from engaging in 
 
106 The inclusion of any measure in the Annex implies no judgement by the WTO Secretariat on whether 
a measure, or its intent, is protectionist in nature. Moreover, nothing in the Annex implies any judgement, 
either direct or indirect, on the consistency of any measure with the provisions of any WTO agreement.  
WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 100 - 
 
  international trade with Cuba by subjecting foreign nationals to travel restrictions and financial 
liabilities in the United States.  
4.7.  A number of Members adopted new measures in rela tion to investment review procedures, 
including for national security purposes. From 12 July 2019, changes to Competition Act in 
South  Africa  give the President the power to establish a list of national security interests and to 
establish a committee to re view inward foreign investment to safeguard South Africa's essential 
security interests. On 27 May 2019, Japan  expanded the list of activities that are subject to a prior 
notification requirement in relation to inward direct investment under Foreign Exchange and Foreign 
Trade Act. The new activities include wired broadcasting and telephony, software development, 
information processing, mobile and other telecommunication services, and Internet support services.  
4.8.  In France , the government amended its foreign investment regime by extending, from 1 
January 2019, the prior authorization requirement to investments in new  strategic sectors, including 
data storage in connection with public security. A subsequent law adopted in May 2019 modified the 
review mechanism for foreign investments by allowing the Minister of the Economy greater powers 
to take certain measures in cas es where an investment was made without prior authorization or in 
case of breach of the conditions attached to an authorization, and where the protection of public 
order, public security or national defence is likely to be jeopardized. In December 2018, Germany  
amended the foreign investment regime. It lowered, from 25% to 10% of voting rights, the threshold 
for screening acquisitions by non -EU/EFTA investors in certain sectors, including operators of critical 
infrastructure in specific sectors, companies m onitoring telecommunications, and providers of cloud 
computing services.  
4.9.  The European Union  adopted, in April 2019, a framework for the screening of foreign direct 
investments (FDI). The new regulation does not require EU member States to implement an FDI 
screening mechanism.  However, existing or future mechanisms at the member State level are 
required to meet certain basic requirements, such as judicial review of decisions, non -discrimination 
between third countries, and transparency. The regulation sets o ut a non -exhaustive list of factors 
that may be taken into account to determine whether foreign investments pose a risk to security or 
public order.  
Communication Services  and E -Commerce  
4.10.   Several Members adopted new measures in relation to the communication s sector, Internet - 
and other network -enabled services, or e -commerce. For example, in Brazil , the President signed a 
law to modernize the country's regulatory regime for telecommunication services. Effective 4 
October 2019, it lifts restrictions on asset sales, and seeks to encourage investment in broadband 
in remote areas of Brazil by allowing companies to own outright telecom assets, such as cell towers 
and real estate. In Ethiopia , an observer, the Parliament adopted, on 13 June 2019, a new law to 
liberalize the telecommunication sector. In Colombia , the President signed on 25 July 2019 a law 
that consolidates the regulation of telecommunications and broadcast television under a single 
regulator, while, in  Senegal , the new law on electronic communication s expands the powers of the 
telecom regulator with respect to anticompetitive practices and contains new requirements on the 
protection of privacy and personal data. In South Africa , the government amended the Film and 
Publications Act for the purpose of extending the compliance and monitoring functions of the Film 
and Publication Board to online distributors.  
4.11.   In Cambodia , the National Assembly adopted, on 8 October 2019, a new e -commerce law, 
which aims to facilitate and regulate online business operations, domestically and cross -border. 
Saudi Arabia  published, on 24 July 2019, a new e -commerce law that aims to protect consumers by 
regulating e -commerce suppliers located in Saudi Ar abia and those located outside of Saudi Arabia 
who offer goods and services to customers in the Kingdom. In Indonesia , the Government revoked 
a regulation on e -commerce taxes that was intended to be enforced from 1  April 2019, and which 
would have required  online marketplace operators to report details of each seller's turnover, 
mandated online sellers to register for a tax payer number, and set out taxes to be paid by online 
sellers.  
4.12.   In July 2019, the new European Union  Regulation on promoting fairness and  transparency for 
business users of online intermediation services entered into force.  The regulation applies to online 
platforms and search engines, irrespective of where they are established, that service businesses in WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 101 - 
 
  the EU that offer goods or services  to consumers in the EU. The regulation contains a number of 
new requirements, including that platforms disclose any advantage they give to their own goods or 
services over those of other business users.  
4.13.   India announced new conditions in relation to its F DI policy on e -commerce. The new measure 
provides that, from 1 February 2019, e -commerce marketplaces cannot sell on their platform 
products of companies in which they have equity interests or in which they control the inventory. In 
addition, e -commerce ma rketplace entities cannot mandate any seller to sell any product exclusively 
on its platform. Also, on 28 August 2019, the Indian government announced that up to 26% FDI 
was allowed for the uploading/streaming of news and current affairs through digital me dia.  
4.14.   In France , a law adopted in July 2019 subjects enterprises that conduct significant digital 
activities (€750 million of digital services taxable worldwide and €25 million of digital services taxable 
in France) to a 3% tax on digital revenues accruing  in France. Digital services concerned are the 
provision of digital interfaces allowing users to interact online and the provision of services to 
advertisers in relation to targeted advertising messages using users' data. In Viet Nam , the National 
Assembly  adopted, in June 2019, a law introducing a new taxation regime for foreign service 
suppliers, including in relation to e -commerce activities. Among modifications brought by the new 
law, banks and foreign suppliers not established in Viet Nam have to file and pay taxes in Viet Nam 
for e-commerce activities that generate income in Viet Nam.  
4.15.   In the United States  an Executive Order signed on 15 May 2019 declares a national emergency 
with respect to threats against information and communications technology and  services in the 
United States, and prohibits the purchase or use of information and communication technologies or 
services that pose a national security risk.  In Italy, the government adopted new rules in March  2019 
that added 5G -based communications services to the list of strategic assets for the purpose of the 
national security review process. Subsequently, on 11 July, the government issued a new measure 
specifying that an entity that enters in 5G -related good s or service contracts or acquires components 
for 5G networks from non -EU providers now needs to notify the contract in order to allow the 
government to assess national security risks.  
4.16.   In Tanzania , the Parliament adopted a new law giving the Tanzania Film  Board the right to 
vet raw footage of foreign companies filming in the country. Foreign filmmakers are also required to 
submit a finished copy to get clearance before exiting the country and must allow the government 
to use the content to promote the coun try. In August 2019, the government of Turkey  adopted a 
new regulation that broadens the scope of broadcasting legislation to media services provided as 
over-the-top (OTT) services. Under the new measure, foreign entities have to establish a company 
in Tur key, and media service suppliers and Internet broadcast platforms operating 
subscription -based services are required to pay 0.5% of their annual net sales to the Turkish Radio 
and Television Supreme Council. Further, the Turkish government introduced a new  tax on online 
advertising services. Since 1 January 2019, a 15% tax is applied to payments made to providers of 
online advertising services or intermediaries.  
4.17.   In the Russian Federation , a new law on the operation of the Internet, signed on 1  May 2019, 
provides that telecommunication operators, trans -border telecommunication line -owners and 
Internet exchange point owners have to provide for centralized traffic management in case of 
emerging threats to the operation of the Internet in the Russian Federation.  The law foresees the 
installation by operators of equipment provided by the regulator to counteract threats.   
4.18.   In Thailand , the National Legislative Assembly approved, in February, the Personal Data 
Protection Act and the Cybersecurity Act. The new data p rotection law allows cross -border data 
transfers to countries that provide sufficient personal data protection in compliance with guidelines 
of the Personal Data Protection Committee, as well as in certain other specified circumstances.  
Financial Services  
4.19.   Certain policy changes took place during the review period in the financial services sector, 
generally towards greater openness. Brazil  adopted a number of new measures in the sector. Since 
26 September 2019, the Central Bank is authoriz ed to recognize the increase in foreign capital 
participation in domestic financial institutions, as well as the licensing of new branches of foreign 
financial institutions, as being in the interest of the government. Therefore, Presidential Decrees are WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 102 - 
 
  no longer required. Furthermore, a new law eliminated , in September 2019, the reciprocity 
requirement that had regulated insurance and reinsurance operations within the country to date, 
and which conditioned the capacity of foreign firms to carry out insuran ce transactions and establish 
in Brazil on equal treatment of Brazilian insurers in the foreign country. In addition, since 
8 May 2019, the establishment of branches by foreign insurance companies is no longer subject to 
the granting of a Presidential Decr ee, but rather depends on an authorization from the Ministry of 
the Economy.  
4.20.   On 20 July 2019, China  announced 11 measures aimed at accelerating the opening -up of the 
country 's financial sector. This includes allowing foreign ownership to exceed 25% in insurance asset 
management companies. In Ethiopia , an observer, the parliament adopted, on 31 July 2019, a 
measure allowing members of the Ethiopian diaspora, who have taken up nationalities in other 
countries , to invest and buy shares in banks, and to set up lending businesses in the country. 
Ethiopia's banking sector is otherwise closed to foreign investment.  
4.21.   The Reserve Bank of India announced, on 26 June 2019, that payment system providers had 
to ensure, with in a period of 6 months, that all their data were stored only in India. For the foreign 
leg of a transaction, the data could also be stored in the foreign country, if required. Payment 
transactions could be processed outside India by payment system operato rs authorized by the 
Reserve Bank, but the data must be deleted from the systems abroad and brought back to India no 
later than one business day or 24 hours after payment processing, whichever is earlier. Further, as 
part of the Union Budget 2019 -20, India announced, on 5 July, that 100% foreign direct investment 
would be permitted for insurance intermediaries, up from the previous 49% limit.   
4.22.   In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia , the Monetary Authority issued new rules a llowing foreign 
insurance and reinsurance  companies to establish as branches.  In Chinese  Taipei , foreign Futures 
Commission Merchants (FCM)  may now directly supply trade, clearing and settlement services of 
futures to domestic FCMs, and are no longer required to establish a branch or subsidiary i n Chinese 
Taipei. In Myanmar , the Central Bank confirmed in January 2019 that foreign banks and foreign 
financial institutions could hold up to 35% of equity investment in local private banks. As regards 
insurance, up to three licences are to be granted to  foreign life insurers as 100% wholly -owned 
subsidiaries.  
Transport Services  
4.23.   Certain Members adopted new policies in relation to transport services. From 24 March 2019, 
a new European Union  regulation establishing a framework for the provision of port serv ices is being 
implemented in each Member State. Also, in June 2019, the European Union  adopted a harmonised 
European Maritime Single Window  that brings together all reporting obligations associated with a 
port call, including customs procedures for entry and exit of goods.  In Brazil , Congress has passed 
Law 13.842 amending the Brazilian Aviation Code to remove restrictions on foreign ownershi p and 
control of national airlines. Previously, airlines wishing to establish in Brazil faced a foreign ownership 
limit and were required to have exclusive Brazilian management and control. As a result of the 
amendment, from 17 June 2019, international air lines can now own a subsidiary company in Brazil, 
subject to the requirement that its headquarters and administration are based in the country.  
4.24.   Argentina  simplified the regime for obtaining coastal traffic waivers that allow foreign vessels 
to carry out co mmercial activities in the Argentinian sea in the event that no Argentinian vessels are 
available to perform such activities. In China , foreign investors can now invest in and operate 
international shipping transportation, international shipping agencies, international shipping 
management, international shipping cargo handling, international shipping cargo warehousing, and 
international shipping container station and yard business.  
4.25.   On 27 June 2019, the Parliament of Tanzania  adopted a new measure that expa nds the 
exclusive rights of t he Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation ( "TASAC "). TASAC's exclusive rights 
to implement clearing and forwarding functions was expanded to cover the import and export of 
fertilizers, industrial sugar, domestic sugar, edible c ooking oil, wheat, oil products, gas, liquified gas 
and chemicals or any other liquid related products. Exclusivity also extends to cover an array of 
shipping agency functions in relation to a number of goods.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 103 - 
 
  Other Services Sectors  
4.26.   The government of India relaxed, in August 2019, the rules applying to foreign -invested 
suppliers of single brand retail trade services. Foreign -invested companies are now allowed to 
conduct online retail trade prior to the opening of physical stores, subject to the condition th at the 
latter are established no later than two years after the start of online operations. The new measure 
also modifies the 30% local sourcing rule for companies with more than 51% foreign ownership. For 
instance, all procurement made from India by singl e brand retailers will now be counted towards 
local sourcing, irrespective whether the goods are sold in India or exported.  
4.27.   On 22 August 2019, the President of the Seychelles  signed the Tourism Development Act, 
which sets out a new legal framework for tour ism activities. In Bangladesh , the Central Bank adopted 
a number of measures easing foreign exchange limits in relation to the consumption of tourism 
services abroad . With respect to gambling services, Switzerland  adopted a  new measure permitting 
licensed casinos established in the country to offer online gaming services. Under the new law, 
unlicensed operators, including foreign -based suppliers, will be blocked by Internet access providers. 
Unlicensed sites will be blocked as of 1  July 2019.  
4.28.   Some new measures relating to health and medical services were also adopted. In China , a 
new Circular from the National Health Commission requires big data in the health care industry to 
be stored in the country. Where such data must be transferred abroad for business reasons, a 
security assessment must be carried out in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations. In 
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia , the government allowed 100% foreign ownership, operation and 
management of Private Healthcare Insti tutions (PHI), with the exception of clinics. A new law in the 
United Arab Emirates  (UAE)  imposes, from 14 May 2019, a general prohibition on the transfer, 
storage, generation, and processing of UAE health data in or to other countries.  
Services Supplied through the Movement of Natural Persons  
4.29.   Various Members adopted measures affecting the supply of services through the movement 
of natural persons, most of which are trade -facilitating. For example, Japan  expanded, in May 2019, 
the range of fields in which foreign students who have graduated from a Japan ese university or 
graduate school are able to find employment under the status of residence of "Designated Activities".  
4.30.   In India, the Government increased the permitted duration of stay under the electronic 
Business Visa to 180 days, up from 60  days. Multiple visits are now allowed in a calendar year, and 
foreign nationals holding an employment visa are now able to extend it for up to 10 years, up from  5. 
The immigration authority in Angola  replaced the Ordin ary Visa with the Tourism Visa for business 
visitors. Issued for 120 days, the Tourisms Visa allows multiple entries and may be extended twice 
for 30 days, whereas the Ordinary Visa was issued for 90 days.  
4.31.   Canada  made permanent its Global Talent Stream programme. The programme provides for 
a streamlined Labour Market Impact Assessment and expedited work permit processing for 
highly -skilled foreign workers in STEM -related professions (science, technology, engineeri ng, math). 
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia  no longer requires l abour market tests before a block visa request is 
submitted by employers seeking to hire foreign nationals, while Egypt  removed the requirement that 
limited liability companies in the country appoi nt at least one manager of Egyptian nationality. In 
Panama , several Executive Decrees enacted in May 2019 introduced changes to the rules on work 
permits for foreigners. Among changes, the period of validity for work permits within the 10% or 
15% quotas ha s been extended to two years, from one year previously.  
4.32.   For its part, Oman  introduced a ban on the recruitment of foreign nationals to senior 
management positions in the private sector. It also extended for another six months the suspension 
of the recruit ment of foreign workers in 87 professions across various industries, starting 5 August 
2019. In the United Arab Emirates , the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE) 
expanded, from 1 August 2019, the labour market testing requirement to compa nies of all sizes. 
Finally, under a new law effective since 1 June 2019, foreign nationals seeking to work in Zambia  
may only apply for positions appearing in an official critical skills list. Employers are additionally 
required to designate a local worker  to be trained by each foreign worker over a two -year period.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 104 - 
 
  Air Services Agreements  
4.33.   Table 4.1 below  presents information on Air Services Agreements (ASAs) concluded during 
the period under review. These include both new ASAs and revisions of pre -existing  ones. As far as 
can be assessed from available sources, the vast majority of these ASAs provides for more liberal 
access conditions than was previously the case . 
Table 4.1 Air Services Agreements107 concluded or amended during the reporting period 
(October 2018 -October 2019)  
Parties  Date of 
signature  Source  
Macao, China  Qatar  10.10.2018  http://www.macaubusiness.com/macau -qatar -inks-bilateral -open-
skies-agreement -with-macau  
Singapore  Peru 16.10.2018  https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore -
peru-open-skies-agreement -10834954  
Jamaica  Slovenia  17.10.2018  http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Jamaica_to_sign_ne
w_air -service_agreements?profile=1228  
Jamaica  Morocco  17.10.2018  http://ww w.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Jamaica_to_sign_ne
w_air -service_agreements?profile=1228  
Jamaica  Bahamas  17.10.2018  http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Jamaica_to_sign_ne
w_air -service_agreements?profile=1228  
Jamaica  South Africa  17.10.2018  http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Jamaica_to_sign_ne
w_air -service_agreements?profile=1228  
Korea, 
Republic of  Italy 18.10.2018  http://www.arirang.co.kr/News/News_View.asp?nseq=225078  
Bosnia  United Arab 
Emirates  07.11.2018  https://www.exyuaviation.com/2018/11/bosnia -and-uae-ink-air-
agreement.html  
Philippines  Switzerland  20.11.2018  https://www.bworldonline.com/phl -signs-new-air-deal-with-
switzerland  
Kyrgyz 
Republic  Qatar  21.11.2018  https://www.azernews.az/region/141495.html  
Kuwait, the 
State of  Cyprus  25.11.2018  https://www.kuna.net.kw/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=2761136&langua
ge=en  
Guyana  Ghana  28.11.2018  http://www.financial -news.co.uk/51645/2018/11/guyana -signs-
air-service -agreement -with-ghana -201811280/  
Macao, China  China  27.11.2018  https://macaudailytimes.com.mo/mainland -macau -ink-new-
agreement -on-air-transport.html  
Australia  Fiji 10.2018  https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific -
news/377024/qantas -to-increase -fiji-flights  
United 
Kingdom  United 
States  28.11.2018  https://www.g ov.uk/government/news/uk -and-us-agree -new-
open-skies-arrangements  
Nepal  Cambodia  29.11.2018  https://thehimalayantimes.com/business/nepal -cambodia -ink-
initial -pact-on-bilateral -air-services  
United 
Kingdom  Canada  2.12.2018  https://www.atn.aero/#/article.html?id=70624  
Congo  United 
States  10.12.2018  https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/business/Congo -US-sign-air-
transport -agreement/2560 -4888688 -14tdiipz/index.html  
Ghana  Seychelles  11.12.2018  http://www.ghananewsagency.org/economics/ghana -and-
seychelles -sign-bilateral -air-services -agreement -143061  
Ghana  Canada  13.12.2018  https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/business/Governm
ent-eyes-aviation -gateway -as-Ghana -signs-deals-with-Canada -et-
al-708488 
Ghana  Jamaica  13.12.2018  https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/business/Governm
ent-eyes-aviation -gateway -as-Ghana -signs-deals-with-Canada -et-
al-708488  
Ghana  Namibia  13.12.2018  https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/business/Governm
ent-eyes-aviation -gateway -as-Ghana -signs-deals-with-Canada -et-
al-708488  
Ghana  Guyana  13.12.2018  https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/business/Governm
ent-eyes-aviation -gateway -as-Ghana -signs-deals-with-Canada -et-
al-708488  
Kenya  Cambodia  15.12.2018  https://www.journalducameroun.com/en/kenya -concludes -
highest -number -of-air-service -agreements/  
Kenya  Bahamas  15.12.2018  https://www.journalducameroun.com/en/kenya -concludes -
highest -number -of-air-service -agreements  
 
107 The term " air services  agreements" is used h ere to refer to Air Services Agreements, Memoranda of 
Understanding, Exchange of Notes, and other such relevant instruments.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 105 - 
 
  Parties  Date of 
signature  Source  
Kenya  Jamaica  15.12.2018  https://www.journalducameroun.com/en/kenya -concludes -
highest -number -of-air-service -agreements  
Kenya  Turkey  15.12.2018  https://www.journalducameroun.com/en/kenya -concludes -
highest -number -of-air-service -agreements  
Kenya  Seychelles  15.12.2018  https://www.journalducameroun.com/en/kenya -concludes -
highest -number -of-air-service -agreements  
Kenya  Greece  15.12.2018  https://www.jo urnalducameroun.com/en/kenya -concludes -
highest -number -of-air-service -agreements  
Kenya  Finland  15.12.2018  https://www.journalducameroun.com/en/kenya -concludes -
highest -number -of-air-service -agreements  
Kenya  Burkina Faso  15.12.2018  https://www.journalducameroun.com/en/kenya -concludes -
highest -number -of-air-service -agreements  
Seychelles  Bahamas  14.12.2018  http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/10202/Eyeing+ne
w+tourism+and +trade%2C+Seychelles+signs+air+agreements+
with++countries  
Seychelles  Greece  14.12.2018  http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/10202/Eyeing+ne
w+tourism+and +trade%2C+Seychelles+signs+air+agreements+
with++countries  
Seychelles  Jamaica  14.12.2018  http://ww w.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/10202/Eyeing+ne
w+tourism+and +trade%2C+Seychelles+signs+air+agreements+
with++countries  
Seychelles  Saudi 
Arabia, 
Kingdom of  14.12.2018  http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/10202/Eyeing+ne
w+tourism+and +trade%2C+Seychelles+signs+air+agreements+
with++countries  
Seychelles  Switzerland  14.12.2018  http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/10202/Eyeing+ne
w+tourism+and +trade%2C+Seychelles+signs+air+agreements+
with++countries  
Seychelles  Turkey  14.12.2018  http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/10202/Eyeing+ne
w+tourism+and +trade%2C+Seychelles+signs+air+agreements+
with++countries  
Seychelles  Rwanda  14.12 .2018  http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/10202/Eyeing+ne
w+tourism+and +trade%2C+Seychelles+signs+air+agreements+
with++countries  
United 
Kingdom  Switzerland  17.12.2018  https://www.reuters.com/article/us -britain -eu-air/uk -signs-air-
service -deal-with-switzerland -for-post-brexit -flights -
idUSKBN1OG00E  
Rwanda  Israel  07.01.2019  https://ktpress.rw/2019/01/rwanda -signs-air-service -agreement -
with-israel/  
Nigeria  India 16.01.2019  https://www.dailytrust.com.ng/fg -signs-air-agreement -with-
india.html  
Cambodia  Finland  30.01.2019  https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50574394/air -deal-inked -with-
finland/  
Kazakhstan  United 
States  05.02.2019  https://www.aviationpros.com/airlines/news/21056146/kazakhsta
n-announces -time-of-signing -open-sky-agreement -with-us 
Qatar  European 
Union  06.02.2019  https://www.logupdateafrica.com/eu -qatar -ink-new-air-service -
agreements -to-strengthen -ties-aviation  
Zimbab we Sri Lanka  23.02.2019  https://colombogazette.com/2019/02/23/zimbabwe -welcomes -
launch -of-air-services -with-sri-lanka  
Zimbabwe  Oman  23.02.2019  https://colombogazette.com/2019/02/23/zimbabwe -welcomes -
launch -of-air-services -with-sri-lanka/  
Peru Cuba 08.03.2019  https://mundo.sputniknews.com/america -
latina/201903081085948043 -peru-cuba-llegan -acuerdo -para-
aumentar -frecuencia -vuelos -comerciales  
Dominica  CARICOM -
MASA  28.02.2019  https://wicnews.com/caribbean/several -member -states -caricom -
sign-multilateral -air-services -agreement -220917044  
Grenada  CARICOM -
MASA  28.02.2019  https://wicnews.com/caribbean/several -member -states -caricom -
sign-multilateral -air-services -agreement -220917044  
Jamaica  CARICOM -
MASA  28.02.2019  https://wicnews.com/caribbean/several -member -states -caricom -
sign-multilateral -air-services -agreement -220917044  
Trinidad and 
Tobago  CARICOM -
MASA  28.02.2019  https://wicnews.com/caribbean/several -member -states -caricom -
sign-multilateral -air-services -agreement -220917044  
Morocco  Rwanda  19.03.2019  https://www.politicalanalysis.co.za/morocco -and-rwanda -sign-
new-partnership -agreement -in-12-different -sectors  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 106 - 
 
  Parties  Date of 
signature  Source  
Ghana  Malta  26.03.2019  https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Ghan
a-signs-Air-Services -Visa-waiver -agreements -with-Malta -733255  
Nigeria  Cabo Verde  02.04.2019  https://punchng.com/nigeria -cape-verde -finalise -air-transport -
agreement  
Saudi Arabia, 
Kingdom of  Georgia  02.04.2019  https://aaco.org/media -center/news/aeropolitical/saudi -arabia -
and-georgia -sign-air-service -agreement  
China  EU 20.05.2019  http://www.ecns.cn/news/2019 -05-22/detail -
ifzikase6326510.shtml  
Zimbabwe  Mozambique  20.06.2019  https://www.herald.co.zw/zim -moza -sign-air-service -agreement/  
Argentina  United States  26.06.2019  https://www.investing.com/news/economy -news/us -argentina -
sign-modernized -air-services -agreement -1908521  
Brazil  Portugal  28.06.2109  https://centreforaviation.com/analysis/reports/brazil -portugal -
aviation -more-growthwill -flow-from-new-mou-481937  
Canada  Bahamas  16.07.2019  http://www.tribune242.com/news/2019/jul/16/bahamas -seeking -
tourism -boost -via-canada -air-deal/ 
Saudi Arabia, 
Kingdom  of Senegal  23.07.2019  http://www.tradearabia.com/news/TTN_356885.html  
Nepal  China  25.07.2019  https://thehimalayantimes.com/business/nepal -china -revise -air-
services -pact/ 
Philippines  Rwanda  25.07.2019  https://business.inquirer.net/275525/ph -rwanda -ink-air-service -
agreement  
Ghana  Belgium  12.08.2019  https://www.modernghana.com/news/950150/ghana -belgium -
seal-bilateral -air-services -agreement -basa.html  
Rwanda  Brazil  14.08.2019  https://regionweek.com/brazil -is-our-plan-for-future -expansion -
says-rwandair -ceo/ 
Namibia  Rwanda  19.08.2013  https://ktpress.rw/2019/08/kagame -in-namibia -for-a-three-day-
state-visit/ 
United States  Japan  21.08.2019  https://www.atn.aero/#/article.html?id=73 298 
Morocco  Philippines  12.09.2019  http://northafricapost.com/33885 -philippines -morocco -to-
establish -direct -flights.html  
Canada  French 
Polynesia  16.09.2019  https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific -news/398874/air -
service -agreement -between -french -polynesia -and-canada  
Bahrain, 
Kingdom of  Spain  27.09.2019  https://aaco.org/media -center/news/aeropolitical/bahrain -and-
spain -sign-agreement -to-liberalize -air-traffic 
Nepal  United Arab 
Emirates  28.09.2019  https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/nepal -uae-sign-
revised -air-service -agreement -in-canada/  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
4.34.   The following Box takes a close look at the future of services trade.  
Box 4.1 The Future of Services Trade 
The share of services in international trade has been growing steadily, and recent work by the WTO found 
that services trade has grown faster than trade in goods. Since 2005, services trade has increased by 5.4% 
per year, on average, while trade in goods h as grown by 4.6%. Trade in computer services and research and 
development have recorded the most rapid annual growth over the past decade.  
Many developing economies are becoming increasingly services -based, and their share of world services trade 
has grow n by over 10 percentage points since 2005. However, services trade is concentrated in five developing 
economies – China; Hong -Kong China; India; the Republic of Korea; and Singapore – which accounted for 
over 50% of developing economies' services trade in 2017.  
Trade in services can help countries boost economic growth, enhance domestic firms' competitiveness, and 
promote inclusiveness. It may help women and MSMEs play a more active role in world trade, particularly in 
developing economies, helping to reduc e economic inequality. When MSMEs in developing countries start 
exporting services, they are, on average, two years younger than manufacturing firms. However, at present, 
they export less than 5% of total sales. Services are also the main source of employm ent for women, even if 
the service sectors that account for most of the employment of women have traditionally been among the 
least traded.  
Despite their decline by 9% between 2000 and 2017, trade costs in services remain higher than in goods. 
This is lar gely due to the limited possibilities to supply certain services across borders, and the regulatory 
intensity of many service sectors.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 107 - 
 
  Still, digital technologies are increasingly enabling cross -border trade of services that have traditionally needed 
face-to-face interaction, thus reducing the cost of trading services. Together with climate change, rising 
incomes and demographic changes, technology is one of the main factors expected to have an impact on trade 
in services in the future.  
Thanks to lower trade costs and the reduced need for face -to-face interaction due to digitalization, the share 
of services in global trade could increase by 50% by 2040, according to the WTO Global Trade Model. 
Moreover, if developing countries are able to adopt digital technologies, their share in world services trade 
could increase by about 15% by 2040, again according to the Model. These results are also  dependent on 
policy barriers to services trade being lowered. However, these barriers  – essentially regulatory measures – 
are much more complex than in goods trade.  
For services trade to be a powerful engine of economic growth, development and poverty re duction, 
international cooperation must be intensified and new pathways found to advance global trade cooperation 
and make services a central element of trade policy.  
Source:  WTO World Trade Report 2019.  
 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 108 - 
 
  5  POLICY DEVELOPMENTS IN TRADE AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERT Y 
5.1.  During the review period, Georgia and Cuba deposited their instruments of acceptance of the 
Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement, in November  2018 and June  2019, respectively108; this 
brought to 127 the total number of WTO Members having formally accepted it as legally binding. 
The Protocol gave effect to the 2005 Decision to amend the TRIPS  Agreement to address public 
health needs of countries with limited or no domestic pharmaceutical production capacity, by 
creating an ad ditional legal pathway for the production and export of generic medicines.109 
Chart 5.1 Acceptance of the Amendment to the TRIPS Agreement  
 
Note:  In blue, WTO Members which have accepted the Protocol Amending t he TRIPS Agreement; in red, 
WTO Members yet to accept the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement; and in white, not 
WTO Members.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Bilateral and Regional Agreements  
5.2.  WTO Members continued to implement and negotiate bilateral and RTAs t hat contain 
substantive IP provisions. Currently, over 70 % of the RTAs in force and notified to the WTO contain 
specific IP provisions. Increasingly, RTAs have further developed the interconnection between IP and 
trade in goods and services, trade in digit al products, and the links of the IP system to other 
normative areas, such as investment, e -commerce, and competition policy. During the review 
period, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), came 
into force in De cember  2018; the domestic procedures for the ratification of the 
United  States -Mexico -Canada Agreement (USMCA) were underway; and significant IP issues were 
reportedly under consideration during the re -negotiations of the Association Agreement between 
 
108 The Amended TRIPS Agreement entered into force in January 2017 and applies to all Members which 
have accepted the Protocol. A wai ver, agreed in 2003 (WTO document s WT/L/540, 2 September 2003 and 
WT/L/540/Corr.1, 29 July 2005), continues to apply to those Members that are yet to accept the Protocol. An 
up-to-date list of the Members that have accepted the Protocol is available here: 
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/trips_e/amendment_e.htm . 
109 WTO document WT/L/641, 8 December 2005.  
WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 109 - 
 
  Mexico and the European Union110, as well as in the negotiations in the framework of the  Pacific 
Alliance111 and between MERCOSUR and the European  Union.112 
5.3.  WTO Members were also active signing cooperation agreements between IP offices. 
For instance, during the revi ew period, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia signed a patent prosecution 
highway agreement with the Korean Intellectual Property Office and a Memorandum of 
Understanding with the Chinese National Intellectual Property Administration.113 
5.4.  Domestically, WTO Members a re working to streamline IP into their economies. During the 
period under review, China114, Myanmar115 and Turkey116 reported on the development of their 
national IP strategies. The relationship between IP and trade continued to develop and diversify, as 
Members  continued to modernize and fine -tune their IP legislation and administration ( Box 5.1).  
Box 5.1 Domestic Legislation and Administrative Developments  
Australiaa 
Between August  2018 and February  2019, several amendments to IP legislation entered into force. These 
covered measures to: ensure that the safe harbour scheme procedures and requirements apply to new service 
providers in the academic, archiving, disability and cultural sectors; a llow the judiciary to issue injunctions to 
block access by users in Australia to overseas online locations that facilitate large -scale infringement of 
copyright; extend protection for secondary uses of sound recordings in Australia to recordings from anoth er 
32 countries which provide equivalent protection to Australian sound recordings; clarify parallel importation 
of trademarked goods; provide time -periods for non -use of trademark actions; improve the way derived 
variety declarations can be made for plant  breeders' rights; remove the requirement for patentees to provide 
certain data related to pharmaceutical patents with an extended term; and streamline the administration of 
the IP system. In April  2019, a report on the Review of the Code of Conduct for Co pyright Collecting Societies 
was issued.  
Chileb 
In November  2018, the directives for trademark applications were updated, specifically the chapter on 
prohibition to register names, pseudonyms and portraits of a natural person; and substantive requirements 
for commercial marks. These guidelines are available in electronic form only.  
Chinac 
The amended Patent Agency Regulations  entered into force on 1  March  2019. They improve the provisions 
regarding qualifications for practitioners, a code of conduct, and se rvices supervision.  
Indonesiad 
On 28  December  2018, the Regulation on Patent Applications  came into force. It establishes technical and 
administrative procedures for obtaining patent protection, and accommodates applications for patent 
protection under the  Patent Cooperation Treaty. The Regulation on Procedures for Granting Compulsory 
Licenses  also entered into force on the same day.  
Mauritiuse 
In July  2019, the IP Law was amended to provide for simplified procedures when border measures are applied 
to susp ected infringing goods.  
Philippinesf 
In August  2019, the Bureau of Patents set the maximum period for deferred publication of industrial design 
applications at 30 months from the filing date.  
Chinese Taipeig 
The amended  Copyright Act entered into force on 3 May 2019. It aims at curbing malicious online 
infringement. The Patent Act was also amended to streamline application, examination and invalidation 
procedures; and it extends the design patent term from 12 to 15 years.  
 
110 European Commission, EU-Mexico Trade Agreement. Viewed at: http://ec.europa.eu/trade/policy/in -
focus/eu -mexico -trade-agreement . 
111 Viewed at: https://alianzapacifico.net/inicio -en-chile-la-tercera -ronda -de-negociaciones -con-los-
candidatos -a-estado -asociado . 
112 Viewed a t: https://www.cancilleria.gob.ar/es/actualidad/noticias/ronda -de-negociaciones -mercosur -
ue. 
113 Submission of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the WTO Tra de Monitoring Report.  
114 Submission of China to the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
115 Submission of Myanmar to the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
116 Submission of Turkey to the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 110 - 
 
  Saudi Arabia, Kingdom ofh 
The Regulations for Optional Registration of Copyright Works came into force in August  2019. The Saudi 
Authority for IP held a public hearing on the Executive Rules for Compulsory Patent Licences, and is currently 
updating the Regulations for the Protection of  Confidential Commercial Information.  
South Africai 
The Act for the Protection, Promotion, Development and Management of Indigenous Knowledge Systems 
entered into force in August  2019. It established National Indigenous Knowledge Systems Office (NIKSO), 
which will be responsible for the management of the rights of indigenous communities.  
Thailandj 
The Copyright Act entered into force on 11  March 2019. On the same day, the Ministry of Commerce issued a 
Notification on the Use of Exceptions on Copyright Infri ngement for the Benefit of Persons with Disabilities 
who are Unable to Access Copyright Works.  
Turkeyk 
The application process for trademarks and patents was streamlined, as of July  2019. A database on creative 
works has been available since May  2019.  
Ukrainel 
The amendment to the Law on the Protection of Topographies of Semiconductor Products entered into force 
in September 2019; and the amendments to the Law Geographical Indications were enacted in 
September  2019.  
a Submission by Australia for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report and notifications to the TRIPS Council.  
b Submission by Chile for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
c Submission by China for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
d Submission by Indonesia for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
e Submi ssion by Mauritius for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
f Submission by the Philippines for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
g Submission by Chinese Taipei for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
h Submission by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the WTO Trade M onitoring Report.  
i Submission by South Africa for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
j Submission by Thailand for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
k Submission by Turkey for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
l Submission by Ukraine for the WTO Trade Monitori ng Report.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
TRIPS Council  
5.5.  During the review period, the TRIPS Council met on three occasions, i.e. on 
8-9 November  2018, 13  February  2019 and 6  June 2019. At the November  2018 meeting, 
WTO Members agreed to grant permanent Observer status to the Cooperation Council of the 
Arab States of the Gulf (GCC). The February  2019 meeting was immediately preceded by the 
Workshop on the Implementation of Article  66.2 of the TRIPS Agreement: Incentives for Technology 
Transfer, during whi ch capital -based LDC experts reviewed the reports of measures implemented by 
developed country Members, and set out their own national priorities in this area. This enabled a 
rich exchange, based on concrete recommendations, during the TRIPS Council meetin g. The 
European Union briefed WTO Members on its initiative to strengthen the ability of regular WTO bodies 
to effectively address and resolve trade concerns across WTO councils and committees.117 Mexico 
observed that the Draft Revision of the Standard for F ollow-up Formula discussed by the Codex 
Alimentarius Commission could have an impact on trademarks.118 
5.6.  At the three meetings, discussions on non -violation and situation complaints under the 
TRIPS  Agreement showed some willingness to discuss and consider some proposals on modalities. 
In general, delegations maintained their established positions.119 Members also continued sharing 
their national experiences on the overarching theme of IP and Innovation, which covered specific 
agenda items on: IP and New Businesses120; Public -Private Collaborations in Innovation121; 
 
117 WTO document WT/GC/W/777/Rev.1, 19 July 2019.  
118 WTO doc ument IP/C/M/92, 13 June 2019.  
119 WTO documents IP/C/M/90, 19 November 2018; IP/C/M/91, 21 February 2019; and IP/C/M/92, 
13 June 2019.  
120 WTO documents IP/C/W/648, 19 October 2018; and IP/C/W/648/Add.1, 2 November 2018.  
121 WTO documents IP/C/W/652, 8 February  2019; and IP/C/W/652/Add.1, 12 February 2019.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 111 - 
 
  Promoting Public Health through Competition Law and Policy122; and Branding and the Creative 
Industries.123 They also shared their views on IP and the Public Interest, with the item Promoting 
Public Health through Competition Law and Policy.124 
5.7.  During the review period, 16 Members125 notified legislative measures under TRIPS 
Article  63.2. Most of them introduced their new or amended laws during the Council's meetings, 
providing insights into development s in different areas, for instance: copyright and related rights; 
trademarks; geographical indications; industrial designs; patents; plant variety protection; and 
enforcement.  
5.8.  Five Members submitted information on their contact points for the exchange of i nformation 
and cooperation on trade in infringing goods, under Article 69 of the TRIPS Agreement.126 
5.9.  As part of the Review of the Application of the Provisions of the Section on Geographical 
Indications under Article 24.2 of the TRIPS Agreement, Mexico and U kraine introduced their 
responses to the Checklist of Questions; and Montenegro and Norway provided updates to their 
respective Checklists.  
5.10.   In 2019, the TRIPS Council reviewed, for the first time in 15 years, inputs on the national 
experiences with biotech  patenting and plant variety protection: the responses to the checklists of 
questions on the review of Article 27.3(b), submitted by Mexico127 and Ukraine. Chile submitted its 
contact points for technical cooperation, as per Article  67. 
TRIPS -related Discuss ions in Trade Policy Reviews  
5.11.   During the review period, the Trade Policy Mechanism reviewed 19 Members128, including the 
first reviews for Vanuatu and Samoa. These  reviews included discussions on a wide range of IP  issues 
with a bearing on trade policy, inclu ding: 
• implementation of the TRIPS Agreement and national IP policies;  
• tax deductions for the purchase of IPRs;  
• contribution of IP -intensive industries to exports and imports;  
• copyright regimes, covering online and technological protection measures;  
• tradema rk regimes, protection of well -known and unregistered trademarks and prior 
use requirements;  
• geographical indications;  
• industrial designs;  
• patents and streamlining of application and examination processes;  
• undisclosed information and test data;  
• technology transfer policies;  
• governmental expenditures on research and development;  
• protection of trade secrets;  
• licensing and competition policy;  
• enforcement, online infringement and at the border;  
• methodologies for calculating losses caused by infringem ents; 
• procedures for settling disputes, including mediation; and  
• the accession to, and implementation of, WIPO instruments.  
 
122 WTO documents IP/C/W/649, 29 October 2018; IP/C/W/649/Add.1, 2 November 2018; 
IP/C/W/649/Add.2, 7 November 2018; IP/C/W/649/Add.3, 20 November 2018; and IP/C/W/651, 
1 February  2019.  
123 WTO documents IP/C/W/65 3, 23 May 2019; IP/C/W/653Add.1, 24 May 2019; and 
IP/C/W/653/Add.2, 13  June 2019.  
124 WTO documents IP/C/W/649, 29 October 2018; IP/C/W/649/Add.1, 2 November 2018; 
IP/C/W/649/Add.2, 7 November 2018; IP/C/W/649/Add.3, 20 November 2018; and IP/C/W/651, 
2 Febru ary 2019.  
125 Source: e -TRIPS: Australia; Canada; Colombia; Croatia; Cuba; European Union; Finland; Hungary; 
Japan; Kyrgyz Republic; Moldova, Republic of; Norway; Samoa; Chinese Taipei; Ukraine; and United States.  
126 Angola, Myanmar, Samoa, Ukraine and Tonga.  
127 WTO document IP/C/W/125/Add.25, 21 May 2019.  
128 Vanuatu; Armenia; Hong Kong, China; Nepal; United States; Ecuador; the East African Community 
(Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda); Bangladesh; Samoa; Papua New Guinea; 
Trinidad  and Tobago; Canada; North Macedonia; Suriname; and Costa Rica.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 112 - 
 
  6  TRANSPARENCY OF TRAD E POLICIES  
Notifications and Surveillance in WTO Councils and Committees129 
6.1.  This Section provides  a factual overview of the compliance and timeliness of Members' 
notifications to the WTO. Notifications are the primary instrument for ensuring transparency in the 
multilateral trading system. They are submitted by each Member and reviewed by the relevant  
bodies of the WTO. The importance attached by WTO Members to this issue explains the very 
elaborate system of notifications and cross -notifications put in place under the terms of most 
agreements. Transparency in trade and in trade policy -making is fundam ental for allowing trade 
policy makers and economic agents to make informed decisions, and markets to operate more 
efficiently.  
6.2.  The overview of the compliance and timeliness of Members' notifications to the WTO illustrates 
that, with a few exceptions, com pliance with notification requirements of the various 
WTO Agreements remains very uneven. Although there have been significant efforts by some 
delegations to bring the overall record of their notifications further up to date, the general sense is 
that prog ress on this front remains too slow. The lack of compliance with notification obligations 
across WTO bodies is problematic because it undermines individual agreements and , more generally , 
the operation of the multilateral trading system. There are several reasons for low compliance with 
notification requirements , and an important one relates to the lack of capacity of many 
WTO Members , despite the continued efforts by the WTO Secretariat and the Committees . This lack 
of capacity, and the  other reasons behind the poor compliance , must be addressed collectively by 
the WTO membership.  
Anti-Dumping  
6.3.  Pursuant to Article 16.4  of the Agreement on the Implementation of Article VI of GATT 1994 
("the Anti -Dumping Agreement"), all Members are require d to submit to the Committee on 
Anti-Dumping Practices, on a semi -annual basis, reports of any anti -dumping actions taken within 
the preceding six months, using an agreed standard form.  Members that have not established an 
authority competent to conduct an ti-dumping investigations have the option to make a one -time 
"nil" notification, valid unless and until they establish an investigating authority, in lieu of submitting 
nil notifications every six months.  
6.4.  Fifty-five Members (counting the European Union as  one) submitted semi -annual reports, 
either of anti -dumping actions taken, or of no actions having been taken, during the six -month 
period January -June 2019.  Fifty Members submitted one -time nil notifications.  The remaining 
31 Members failed to submit semi -annual reports in respect of anti -dumping actions during this 
period. However, few of these non -notifiers are likely to have taken anti -dumping actions.  
Subsidies and Countervailing Measures  
6.5.  The trends in the status of compliance with the obligation to n otify subsidies to the Committee 
on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures under Article 25.1 during the period 1995 -2019 are shown 
in Table 6.1. Subsidy notifications are required every two years , and the most recent notifications 
were due on 30 June 2019.  Further notifications for this period are expected to be received. The 
share of Members that notified subsidies remained between 37% and 50% between 1995 and 2019. 
The share of Members that made a "nil" notification fell significantly over the same period . Excluding 
1995, the share of Members making the required notifications did not exceed 70%, and generally 
hovered around 60%. Conversely, the share of Members not making any notification registered a 
substantial increase since 1995, from 25% to 60%, albei t with some intervening fluctuations.  
 
129 Notifications in the SPS and TBT Committees are dealt with in Sections 3.3 and 3.4 of this Report.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 113 - 
 
  Table 6.1 Status of subsidy notificationsa 
New and full subsidy 
notification  
(due on 30 June of the 
years shown)  
1995  
1998  
2001  
2003  
2005  
2007  
2009  
2011  
2013  
2015  
2017  
2019  
% share of total   
Members that notified 
subsidies  50 39 44 45 47 48 48 47 48 46 44 37 
Members that made a "nil" 
notification  25 16 15 14 13 11 17 20 18 17 11 3 
Sub-total of notifying 
Members  75 55 59 59 60 59 65 67 66 63 55 40 
Members that did not make 
any notification  25 45 41 41 40 41 35 33 34 37 45 60 
a As at 25 October 2019.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
6.6.  Pursuant to Article 25.11 of the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures, all 
Members are required to submit to the Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures, on a 
semi-annual basis, reports of any countervailing actions taken within the preceding six  months , 
using an agreed standard form. Members that have not established an authority competent to 
conduct countervailing  investigations have the option to make a one -time "nil" notification, valid 
unless and until they establish an investigating authority, in li eu of submitting nil notifications every 
six months.  
6.7.  Fifty-four Members (counting the European Union as one) submitted semi -annual reports, 
either of countervailing actions taken, or of no actions having been taken, during the six -month 
period January -June 2019.  Forty-one Members submitted one -time nil notifications.  The remaining 
(41) Members failed to submit semi -annual reports in respect of countervailing actions during this 
period. Few, if any, of these non -notifiers are likely to have countervailing actions.  
State Trading Enterprises  
6.8.  Notifications related to State Trading Enterprises are reviewed by the Working Party on 
State  Trading Enterprises on behalf of the CTG. In July 2012, the Council agreed to extend 
indefinitely the new biannual frequency of new and full notifications. Thus, all WTO Members must 
notify their state trading enterprises every two years.  
6.9.  Table 6.2 presents notifications received for the years in which a new and full notification was 
due. It shows a declining  trend in total notific ations over the period examined, which has accentuated 
over the past few years.  
Table 6.2 Status of new and full STE notifications (due on 30 June of the year shown)130 
Year 1995  1998  2001  2004  2006  2008  2010  2012 2014  2016  2018  
Number of Members that have 
notified131 65 64 71 63 62 64 64 59 58 58 40 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Agriculture  
6.10.   The CoA continued its review of the implementation of Members' commitments under the 
Agreement.  This review is largely carried out based on the notifications submitted by Members. 
There are 12  distinct notification requirements applicable in the domain of agriculture , covering the 
following areas: market access, domestic support, export subsidies, e xport prohibitions or 
restrictions and the follow -up to the Marrakesh Net Food -Importing Developing Countries (NFIDC) 
Decision. The applicability of a notification requirement to a Member is largely dependent on its 
specific commitments under the AoA. Out of the 12 notification requirements, the following 5 are 
 
130 As at 15 October 2019.  
131 The European Union and its member States provide a single notification and ar e counted as one in 
this Table.   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 114 - 
 
  "regular" or "annual" notification requirements: (i) imports under tariff and other quotas (MA:2) ; 
(ii) special SGs (MA:5) ; (iii) domestic support (DS:1) ; (iv)  export subsidies (ES:1) and (v)  total 
exports (ES:2). Annual notifications are required to be submitted no later than a certain number of 
days following the end of the year in question, in accordance with the deadlines set out in 
WTO document G/AG/2.  
6.11.   More than 5,400 questions have been raised in connection with individual notifications under 
the CoA's review process from 1995 -2019 (up to the June 2019 CoA meeting). Throughout the years, 
most of  these questions have focused on domestic support notifications (DS:1 and D S:2), followed 
by questions concerning market access, in particular TRQs (MA:1 and MA:2) ( Chart  6.1). 
Additionally, since 2010 the prevalence of questions concerning domestic support notifications has 
been considerably high, representing between 70% and 80 % of all the questions raised in the CoA 
concerning individual notifications.  
Chart 6.1 Questions raised on individual notifications per section per year (1995 -2019a) 
 
a 2019 data cover up to the June 2019 CoA meeting . 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
6.12.   From 15 October 201 8 to 15 October  2019, Members submitted 433 notifications, (including 
addenda a nd corrigenda). A total of 229 questions were posed concerning individual notifications 
during the CoA meetings that took place during th is period. As seen in  Chart 6.2, and in line with 
the historical trend, most of the questions raised related to domesti c support notifications ( 70%). 
Domestic support notifications from China and India were subject to considerable scrutiny. 
Additionally, 25 Members also received questions concerning their domestic support notifications. 
A total of 19 questions were raised concerning overdue  notifications from China, Egypt, Ghana, 
India, Kenya, the Republic of Korea, M alaysia , Morocco, Thailand , Tunisia, Turkey, and Ukraine . 
050100150200250300
Domestic Support Market Access Export restrictions
Export competition NFIDC DecisionQuestions raised on individual notifications per section per year, 1995 -2019a
Source:  WTO Secretariat.a   2019 data covers up to the June 2019 CoA meeting.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 115 - 
 
  Chart 6.2 Number of questions raised per section (mid -October 2018 – mid-October 
2019a) 
 
a Question s raised in the CoA meetings in November  2018 and February and June 2019. 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
6.13.   Article 18.7 of the AoA establishes that " [a]ny Member may bring to the attention of the 
Committee on Agriculture any measure which it considers ought to have been notified by another 
Member". Additionally, under the CoA agreed working procedures, " [c]ounternotifications under 
Article  18:7 of the Agreement shall be considered by the Committee at the earlie st opportunity". 
During the review period, four counternotifications were submitted. Three pertain ed to market price 
support measures undertaken by India regarding cotton (submitted by the United  States),132 
sugarcane (submitted by Australia)133 and pulses (su bmitted by Australia, Canada and 
the United  States)134; and one counternotification was submitted by Indonesia pertaining to special 
safeguard measures of the Philippines on instant coffee and extracts of coffee.135 A summary of the 
discussions that took place  in the CoA meetings can be found in WTO documents G/AG/R/90 (cotton 
and sugarcane)136, G/AG/R/91 (pulses)137 and G/AG/R/92 (coffee and extracts of coffee).138 
Quantitative Restrictions (QRs)  
6.14.   The notification of QRs to the Market Access Committee is an obligatio n established by the 
2012 Decision on Notification Procedures for Quantitative Restrictions ( WTO document 
G/L/59/Rev.1). The Decision requires Members, every two years, to notify the WTO Secretariat of 
the QRs they have in force, as well as any changes in the interim. As at 11  October  2019, a total of 
39 Members had submitted notifications. The number of notifications for each biennial period is 
provided in Table  6.3. 
6.15.   The Decision on Reverse Notification of Non -Tariff Measures (G/L/60) gives Members the 
possibility of making reverse notifications of non -tariff measures imposed by another Member, 
subject to certain conditions. Only one such notification was made since the adoption of the Decision 
in 1995.  
 
132 WTO document G/AG/W/188, dated 9 November 2018.  
133 WTO document G/AG/W/189, dated 16 November 2018.  
134 WTO document G/AG/W/193, dated 12 February 2019.  
135 WTO document G/AG/W/200, dated 14 June 2019.  
136 Paras. 1.15 -1.33. 
137 Paras. 1.15 -1.21. 
138 Paras. 2.15 -2.18. 
Overdue 
notifications
19
Market access
50
Export competition
18
NFIDC
1Article 
18.6
141Individual 
notifications
229Domestic support
160Number of questions raised per section, mid -October 2018 -mid-October 2019a
Source:  WTO Secretariat.a   Questions raised in the CoA meetings in November 2018 and February and June 2019.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 116 - 
 
  Table 6.3 Notification procedures for QRs  
No. Notification requirement  Total number of notifications received as of 
11 October  2019, by biennial period  
1 QRs in force (regular 
notification)  2012-14: 31 notifications from 22 Members.  
2014-16: 39 notifications from 34 Members.  
2016-18: 33 notifications from 31 Members.  
2018-20: 24 notifications from 21 Members.  
2 Changes to the QRs maintained 
(ad hoc), or introduction of new 
QRs 2012-14: 2 Members notified the WTO Secretariat of changes made 
to their existing QRs.  
2014-16: 2 Members notified the WTO Secretariat of changes made 
to their existing QRs.  
2016-18: No Member notified the WTO Secretariat of any changes . 
2018-20: No Member notified the WTO Secretariat of any changes . 
3 QRs maintained by other 
Members  
(reverse notification)  No Member gave notification . 
4 Non-tariff measures maintained 
by other Members  
(reverse notification)  No Member gave notification . 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Import Licensing  
6.16.   Notification requirements in the area of import licensing procedures result from the 
WTO Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures, and are complemented by the "Procedures for 
Notification and Review under the Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures" adopted by the 
Committee on Import Licensing in 1995 (G/LIC/3) and the "Understanding on Procedures for the 
Review of Notifications submitted under the Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures" adopted on 
23 October  1996 (G/LIC/4). The notification requirements are describe d in Table 6.4. 
Table 6.4 Notification  procedures for import licensing  
No. Notification requirement  Established in  Type  Notification  
category  
1 Submission of full texts of 
relevant laws and regulations 
and any changes thereto  Article 8.2(b) of the Agreement; 
G/LIC/3  One-off and  
ad hoc  N/1 
N/2 
2 Sources in which information 
concerning import licensing 
procedures are published  Article 1.4(a) of the Agreement; 
G/LIC/3  One-off and  
ad hoc  N/1 
N/2 
3 New import licensing 
procedures and changes to 
existing procedures  Articles 5.1 -5.4 of the Agreement  Ad hoc  N/2 
4 Reply to the Questionnaire on 
Import Licensing Procedures  Article 7.3 of the Agreement; 
G/LIC/3  Annual, by 
30 September 
each year  N/3 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
6.17.   The N/1 notification requires a WTO Member to notify all relevant laws and regulations with 
regard to import licensing procedures, as well as identify the source/publications containing such 
information. It contains both a one -off element (notification of existing laws and regulations and 
source/publications) and an ad hoc  element (changes to laws and regulations thereafter). In theory, 
a WTO  Member should have at least one N/1 submission, providing its laws and regulations on 
import licensing or indicating that its government does not maintain any import licensing regime.  
6.18.   The N/2 notification is an obligation for Members to notify new licensing laws/procedures or 
changes made to existing laws/procedures. It is ad hoc  in nature,  and only due when specific 
circumstances occur. A new notification form (for notification under Articles 5.1 -5.4) was agreed at 
the Import Licensing Committee meeting held on 4  April 2019 for Members to use on a voluntary WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 117 - 
 
  basis.139 The N/3 notification requ ires Members to reply to a Questionnaire describing all import 
licensing procedures in place by 30  September every year.  
6.19.   As at 4  October  2019, 14  Members had not yet submitted any notification under any provision 
of the Agreement since joining the WTO. In addition, another ten had not yet submitted notifications 
regarding domestic import licensing -related laws or regulations; and another nine are yet to submit 
their Replies to the Annual Questionnaire under Article  7.3. During the review period, as at 
4 October 2019, 89 new notifications under the Agreement on Import Licensing (excluding 
corrigendum) were received and circulated by the Secretariat. Of these, eight N/1 notifications from 
seven  Members140 were reviewed by the Committee. The Committee also review ed 33 N/2 
notifications relating to the institution of new import licensing procedures or changes in these 
procedures from 16 Members141 and 48 N/3 notifications from 32 Members.142 During the review 
period, Myanmar submitted its first notifications to the Committee under various articles of the 
Agreement.  
Rules of Origin  
6.20.   The Committee on Rule s of Origin reviews notification obligations with respect to three types 
of rules of origin as described in Table 6. 5 below . Recent notifications have improved the overall 
compliance with notification obligations in all three areas.  
Table 6.5 Notification  procedures for rules of origin  
No. Legal reference  Notification requirement  Type  
1 Article 5 of the Agreement on 
Rules of Origin  
(no template or format agreed 
by the Committee)  Non-Preferential Rules of Origin: all Members must 
submit a notification indi cating:  
- if they apply non -preferential rules of origin (informing 
what the rules are);  
- or if they do not apply any non -preferential rules of 
origin.  
 
Changes to legislation must be published promptly.  One-off 
2 Paragraph 4 of Annex II of the 
on Rules of Origin  
(no template or format agreed 
by the Committee)  Preferential Rules of Origin: Members only notify the 
preferential rules of origin of regional trade agreements 
any time a new agreement is concluded.  Ad hoc  
3 Paragraph 4.3 of the 2015 
Ministerial Decision on 
preferential rules of origin for 
LDCs (WT/L/917/Add.1)  
(Template agreed by the 
Committee: G/RO/84)  Preferential Rules of Origin for LDCs: Members granting 
non-reciprocal trade preferences to LDCs must notify the 
rules of origin whic h apply under those schemes. Any 
modifications must also be notified.  Ad hoc  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
6.21.   As at mid -October  2019, 80 % of WTO Members had submitted a notification under Article  5 
of the Agreement: 50 Members had notified the Committee that they implement non -preferential 
origin requirements, while 59 other Members had notified that they do not implement such 
requirements.143 However, most of these notifications were submitted over 20 years ago, and no 
template was used. As a result, some of th e information notified is out -of-date and incomplete. The 
remaining 27  Members had never submitted notifications to the Committee.144 
6.22.   In relation to non -reciprocal preferences for LDCs, all WTO Members except two have notified 
their LDC -specific origin requi rements. However, the Ministerial Decision also requires 
preference -granting Members to notify their import statistics from LDCs. Compliance with these 
 
139 WTO document G/LIC/28.  
140 Ecuador; European Union; India; Israel; Macao, China; Myanmar and Tajikistan.  
141 Angola; Argentina; Canada; Costa Rica; European Union; Hong Kong, China; Indonesia; Israel; 
Japan; Morocco; Myanmar; Russian Federation; Singapore; Switzerland; Chinese Taipei  and Ukraine.  
142 Argentina; Australia; Burundi; Canada; Colombia; Costa Rica; Cuba; El Salvador; European  Union; 
Georgia; Hong Kong, China; India; Israel; Japan; Kazakhstan; Macao, China; Mali; Mauritius; Mexico; 
Montenegro; New Zealand; Nicaragua; Panama; Peru; Russian Federation; Singapore; South  Africa; 
Switzerland; Chinese Taipei; Ukraine; United States and Uruguay.  
143 The European Union and its member States are counted as one.  
144 Three tables in the Annex of WTO d ocument G/RO/W/189 describe the latest st atus of notifications.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 118 - 
 
  notification obligations remains low and, despite some recent improvement, there are still several 
preference -granting Members who have never notified their preferential import statistics to 
the Secretariat.145 
Customs Valuation  
6.23.   Notifications in the area of customs valuation stem not only from the Agreement on Customs 
Valuation itself, but also from a number o f Decisions that were adopted by the Committee on 
Customs Valuation. There are five main notification requirements (Table 6. 6). 
Table 6.6 Notification  procedures for customs valuation  
No. Notification 
requirement  Established in  Type  
1 Submission of 
complete texts of 
national legislation 
(laws, regulations, 
etc.) Decision on the notification and circulation of 
national legislation in accordance with 
Article  22 of the Agreement  
(G/VAL/5, B.2, paragraph (i))  One-off 
2 Changes in laws 
and regulations on 
customs valuation  Article 22.2 of the Agreement on Customs 
Valuation  Ad hoc  
3 Responses to the 
checklist of issues  Decision on the Checklist of Issues  
(G/VAL/5, B.3)  One-off 
4 Decision on interest 
charges – date of 
implementation  Decision on the treatment of interest charges 
in the customs value of imported goods 
(G/VAL/5, A.3, last paragraph)  One-off 
5 Decision on carrier 
media (software) – 
application of 
paragraph  2 Decision on the valuation of carrier media 
bearing software for data processing 
equipment (G/VAL/5, A.4, paragraph 2)  Ad hoc  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
6.24.   The notification requirements in the ar ea of customs valuation are either one -off or ad hoc, 
which means that different approaches are required to estimate their level of compliance. In addition, 
any estimate must take into account that the European Union notifies on behalf of a group of 
Members, and that this number has changed several times since the WTO entered into force. Taking 
all these elements into account, the maximum number of one -off notifications, as at 
16 October  2019, covered 136 members (counting the European Union as one). This denominator 
has been used to estimate the degree of compliance for the following notifications (i) submission of 
the complete texts of national legislation; (ii)  responses to the checklist of issues; and (iii) date of 
implementation of the Decision on  the treatment of interest charges in the customs value of imported 
goods (Table 6. 7). 
6.25.   Because ad hoc  notifications are, by definition, only due when specific circumstances occur, 
no maximum number of notifications can be used to estimate the overall degre e of compliance. This 
is the case regarding: (i) changes in laws and regulations on customs valuation; and (ii)  the 
application of paragraph 2 of the Decision on Carrier Media (software).  
Table 6.7 Compliance regarding customs valuation notifications  
No. Notification requirement  Compliance  as at 12  October  2019  
1 Submission of complete texts 
of national legislation (laws, 
regulations, etc.)  Currently, 102 Members have notified their legislation and 34 
Members have still to notify. This gives a compliance rate of 75%.  
2 Changes in laws and 
regulations on customs 
valuation  Since this is an ad hoc  type of notification (i.e. a Member is only 
required to notify if there is a change in its national legislation), it is 
not possible to assess the level of compliance. Thirty -three Members 
have notified changes to their national legislation on customs 
valuation since 1995.  
 
145 WTO d ocument G/RO/W/163/Rev.6 contains a detailed report summarizing the preferential (LDC) 
import statistics currently available with the Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 119 - 
 
  No. Notification requirement  Compliance  as at 12  October  2019  
3 Responses to the checklist of 
issues  Currently, 72 Members have notified responses to the checklist of 
issues and 64 Members have not yet fulfilled this requirement , giving 
a compliance rate of 53%.  
4 Decision on interest charges – 
date of implementation  To date, 49 Members have notified the date from which they will 
apply the Decision on Interest Charges and 88 Members have still to 
notify.  This gives a compliance rate of 36%.  
5 Decision on carrier media 
(software) – application of 
paragraph  2 Since this is an ad ho c notification (i.e. a Member is only required to 
notify if its imports of carrier media bearing data and software are 
valued as provided for in paragraph 2 of the Deci sion), it is not 
possible to assess the level of compliance. To date, 45 Members 
(33%) have made this notification, but it is not possible to know 
whether Members are applying the paragraph without having 
submitted the notification.  
Source:  WTO Secretaria t. 
Preshipment Inspection  
6.26.   Article 5 of the Agreement on Preshipment Inspection (PSI) provides that Members shall 
submit to the Secretariat copies of the laws and regulations under which they put the Agreement 
into force, as well as copies of any other laws  and regulations relating to PSI. Changes in such laws 
and regulations shall also be notified immediately after their publication. Four Members have 
submitted notifications relating to PSI to the Committee on Customs Valuation, which is the body 
responsibl e for administering the implementation of the Agreement on PSI, since the last Report  
(Table  6.8). 
Table 6.8 Compliance with PSI notifications  
No. Notification requirement  Notifications received between 12 October  2018 
and 12 October  2019  
1 Submission of copies of laws and 
regulations putting the Agreement 
into force  Saint Lucia  
2 Other laws and regulations relating 
to PSI  Egypt  
3 Changes in laws and regulations 
relating to PSI  None 
4 Absence of laws and regulations on 
PSI Angola, Brazil  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Integrated Datab ase (IDB)  
6.27.   Reliable tariff information and import statistics of all trading partners are essential to 
enhancing transparency and formulating sound trade policies. Recognizi ng the importance of the 
Integrated Database (IDB) in collecting and disseminating tariff and trade data, WTO Members 
decided to improve and modernize the operation of the IDB. The Committee on Market Access (CMA) 
adopted, on 28  May 2019, a new Decision on  the Modalities and Operation of the IDB146, providing 
the WTO  Secretariat greater flexibility in enhancing IDB data coverage, simplifying the data 
integration process, allowing the dissemination of previously restricted data to the public, and 
shortening th e provisional period so users will have early access to IDB updates. In the past, the 
IDB relied on Members' official notifications and on data collected by the Secretariat from national 
and international databases, which were included in the IDB after the  relevant Member's approval 
(framework -sourced data). The new Decision authorized the Secretariat to estimate missing 
historical tariffs on the basis of applied tariffs of adjacent years. It also allowed the Secretariat to 
explore options of automatic data  exchanges between Members' databases and the IDB. The 
Decision has also synchronized the deadline for submitting import statistics, which is now set for all 
Members as 31  October for the previous year's data.  
6.28.   Charts 6. 3 and 6. 4 present the completeness of  tariff and import notifications to the IDB, by 
number of notifications directly submitted by Members and information collected by the Secretariat.  
 
146 WTO d ocument G/MA/367 . WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 120 - 
 
  6.29.   As at 15  September  2019, the coverage of IDB notifications was, on average, 80 % for tariffs 
and 75 % for impo rt statistics. The highest percentage of IDB tariff data completeness was recorded 
in 2012, at 97 % (Chart 6. 3), followed by 2006 to 2013 and 2015, where the completeness rate also 
exceeded 90 %. Around 70 % of tariff data were collected through Members' notifications, and the 
rest by the Secretariat through framework sources. The scope of framework sources ranged from 
5% in 1998 to 50 % in 2012. On import statistics, with the new notification deadline of 31  October, 
the latest reference year for this Report remains 2017. The highest IDB import statistics' coverage 
was recorded in 2009, at 89 %, with coverage higher than 85 % for 2001, and 2005 to 2010. Import 
statistics collected through frame work sources consis tently accounted for at least 25% of available 
data during the years 2004 to 2012 (Chart 6. 4). The import statistics required for the IDB are very 
detailed and can only be found in limited other sources . For this reason, the share of import statistics 
collected by the Secretariat from framework sources remained low, i.e. around 19 % between 1996 
and 2017. Nonetheless, it should be noted that the proactive data collection undertaken by 
the Secretariat has significantly improved the data coverage of the IDB.  
Chart 6.3 Completeness  of IDB tariff notificationsa 
(%) 
 
a 2019 cover data available from January to September.  
Note:  The completeness of notifications is calculated on the basis of the number of Members' schedules 
(i.e. European  Union  member States are included in the European Union  schedule, and Lichtenstein 
in Switzerland's).  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
6.30.   Data availability varies among Members. Table 6. 9 below shows the distribution of the 
completeness of Members' IDB data since their accession to the WTO. For tariffs, there were only 
35 reporting Members without any data gap. For import statistics, considering only data available 
up to 2017 (since 2018 i mports are not yet due), the corresponding number is 54. The Table also 
shows that 71 % of Members have at least one outstanding tariff notification, and 60 % have at least 
one outstanding import statistics notification. These are marginal improvements compa red to the 
previous Report, with 72 % for tariffs and 64 % for import statistics.  
6.31.   The timeliness of IDB notifications, defined as receiving the expected data within the year the 
data are due, is illustrated in Table 6.7 since 2000. In cases where a valid sub mission was received 
on time but was later replaced or revised, the initial submission is included in the count of timely 
notifications. The same applies for data collected within the deadline but later replaced by a revised 
notification or by data retriev ed from other framework sources.147 Timely availability of tariffs was 
highest in 2013, but data punctuality has slowed down again and, since 2014, only about half of 
 
147 The percentage of timely notifications is also based  on the number of schedules.  
0102030405060708090100
Submitted Collected MissingCompleteness of IDB tariff notificationsa
Source:  WTO Secretariat.(%)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 121 - 
 
  expected data were available within the year they were du e. Table 6.10 also  shows that the bulk of 
import statistics was obtained after the due date. The highest percentage of timeliness was recorded 
in 2010, when 50 % of import statistics was collected by the deadline. As mentioned above, the new 
IDB Decision pushed the imports notification dead line to one month later (31  October), to have one 
unified deadline for all Members. Yet, as shown in Table 6. 10, timeliness has not breached the 
halfway mark for import statistics so far. Hopefully, the automatic data exchange proposed in the 
new IDB  Decis ion between Members' own data systems and the IDB would facilitate timely data 
transmission, to the benefit of Members themselves and other stakeholders.  
Chart 6.4 Completeness  of IDB import notificationsa 
(%) 
 
a Data for 2018 are due on 31October  2019.  
Note:  The completeness of notifications is calculated on the number of Members' schedules 
(i.e. European  Union  member States are included in the European Union  schedule, and Lic htenstein 
in Switzerland's).  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Table 6.9 Completeness  of notifications among Members  
Number of  Tariffs (up to 2019)  Imports (up to 2017)  
years with outstanding data  No. of Members  % No. of Members  % 
None (complete data)  35 29% 54 40% 
1-2 years  30 25% 16 12% 
3-5 years  18 15% 21 16% 
6 or more years  37 31% 44 33% 
Total number of Members' schedules  135 100%  135 100%  
Memo: With at least one year of 
outstanding data  97 71% 87 60% 
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
6.32.   The notification of non -MFN tariff schemes to the IDB, i.e. preferential tariffs resulting from 
PTAs and FTAs/RTAs, has become more regular. This is partly due to the requirement under the 
PTA transparency mechanism whereby Members are obliged to notify non -reciprocal preferences, 
notably the GSP and LDC preferential trading schemes, and the amount of trade that occurs under 
these schemes. While notification of non -MFN tariff schemes is still on  a voluntary basis, at least 
60% of IDB tariff submissions since 2015 include additional duty schemes, aside from the MFN. The 
IDB Status of Submissions document circulated during the CMA regular meetings indicates the 
availability of MFN and non -MFN tarif f schemes in the IDB over the latest ten years. The IDB is 
accessible through the Tariff Analysis Online ( https://tao.wto.org ), the Tariff Download Facility 
0102030405060708090100
Submitted Collected MissingCompleteness of IDB import notificationsa
Source:  WTO Secretariat.(%)WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 122 - 
 
  (http://tdf.wto.org ), and fo r tariff information and trade statistics related to PTAs, through the 
PTA database ( http://ptadb.wto.org ). 
Table 6.10 Percentage  of IDB data available within the year of t he deadlinea 
(% of expected schedules)   
2000  
2001  
2002  
2003  
2004  
2005  
2006  
2007  
2008  
2009  
2010  
2011  
2012  
2013  
2014  
2015  
2016  
2017  
2018  
2019  
Tariff 26 33 42 32 31 28 24 22 26 38 53 69 62 75 52 50 50 48 52 39 
Imports  29 34 29 26 19 17 22 21 31 27 50 45 43 38 21 42 27 33 n.a.b n.a.b 
a The numbers might differ slightly from those reported in the past, as submissions recorded could be 
deemed unsuitable for inclusion in the IDB during processing.  
b The deadline for 2018 imports is 31 October  2019, and for 2019 imports is 31  October  2020.  
n.a. Not applicable.  
Source:  IDB, 15  September  2019.  
6.33.   The IDB data, complemented by additional data from partner institutions such as the ITC and 
UNCTAD, are used to calculate the applied tariffs and  trade indicators published in the World Tariff 
Profiles (WTP), a yearly compendium of comprehensive market access indicators. A series of market 
access indicators generated from the IDB, including those published in the WTP, are also available 
from the WT O data portal (WTODATA viewed at http://data.wto.org ), the new online database for 
comprehensive trade -related indicators.  
Balance -of-Payments Restrictions  
6.34.   Notification obligations in relation to restrictions to safegua rd a country's balance of payments 
stem from Articles XII and XVIII of the GATT  1994 and the Understanding on Balance -of-Payments 
(BOP) Provisions (described in Table 6.1 1). 
Table 6.11 Notification  procedures for BOPs restrictions  
Legal source  Notification requirement  Type 
GATT 
Article XII:4(a)  
 
GATT 
Article  XVIII:12(a)  Any Member applying new restrictions or raising the 
general level of restrictions by a substantial 
intensification of the measures applied under this Article 
shall immediately after instituting or intensifying such 
restrictions (or, in circumstances in which prior 
consultation is practicable, before doing so) consult with 
Members as to the nature of its  BOP difficulties, 
alternative corrective measures which may be available, 
and the possible effect of the restrictions on the 
economies of other Members.  Ad hoc, followed by annual 
consultations  
 
Ad hoc, followed by biennial 
consultations  
Understanding on 
BOP Provisions, 
para. 9  A Member shall notify to the General Council the 
introduction of , or any changes in , the application of 
restrictive import measures taken for BOP purposes, as 
well as any modifications in time -schedules for the 
removal of such measures as announced under 
paragraph 1. Significant changes shall be notified to the 
General Council prior to, or not later than, 30 days after 
their announcement.  Ad hoc, followed by a yearly 
consolidated notification  
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
6.35.   The last BOP consultations were completed in July  2017 and no Member has notified the 
Secretariat of the imposition of measures for BOP purposes since then.  
Regional Trade Agreements  
6.36.   Following an announcement by the Chair of the CRTA at the Committee mee ting of 28 and 
29 June 2011, the Secretariat has continued to circulate a list of agreements that have been verified 
by their parties as being in force through factual presentations prepared by the Secretariat, but not WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 123 - 
 
  notified to the WTO. The list is circ ulated as a working document of the Committee before each 
meeting. The most recent list was circulated on 2 September 2019 and contained 79  such 
agreements.148 The Secretariat is also aware of a number of other agreements that are in force, but 
these have no t yet been verified with the parties. WTO Members have intervened in various meetings 
of the CRTA to urge those whose agreements are on the list to notify them to the WTO. 
The Secretariat also continues to keep track of agreements under negotiation and rem inds Members 
to notify these agreements when they come into force. The Secretariat's technical assistance work 
has also been used to explain notification requirements and procedures to Members.  
Preferential Trade Arrangements  
6.37.   Under the Transparency Mechani sm for Preferential Trade Arrangements (PTAs), which was 
established in December  2010149, newly notified PTAs are to be considered in dedicated sessions of 
the Committee on Trade and Development (CTD), on the basis of Secretariat -prepared factual 
presentatio ns. Since the establishment of the Transparency Mechanism, nine PTAs have been 
notified to the WTO. Three of these have been considered by the CTD in dedicated sessions, while 
for several others the notifying Members have yet to provide the Secretariat wit h the full set of data 
or information required for the preparation of the factual presentations. The CTD Chairman provides 
an update at each CTD meeting on the PTAs that are to be considered in dedicated sessions, and 
urges the notifying Members to provide  the data and information as soon as possible.  
6.38.   The Transparency Mechanism for PTAs also stipulates that an electronic database on individual 
PTAs is to be maintained by the Secretariat. The Database on PTAs150 currently contains information 
on 34  PTAs. Table  6.12 provides an overview of the PTAs included in the database, which is updated 
primarily on the basis of information provided by the Members implementing PTAs. 
The CTD Chairman has urged Members to ensure that they are up -to-date with their notification and 
information requirements, and has invited them to remain in touch with the Secretariat on this 
matter.  
Table 6.12 PTAs  of WTO Members  
WTO Member  Number of PTAs  Name or description of PTA  
Armenia  1 Generalized System of Preferences  
Australia  2 Generalized System of Preferences    
South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreementa 
Canada  2 Generalized System of Preferences    
Commonwealth Caribbean Countries Tariff  
Chile 1 Duty-free treatment for LDCs  
China  1 Duty-free treatment for LDCs  
European Union  4 Generalized System of Preferences    
Trade preferences for countries of the Western Balkans    
Trade preferences for Pakistanb   
Trade preferences for the Republic of Moldovac 
Iceland  1 Generalized System of Preferences  
India 1 Duty-Free Tariff Preference Scheme for LDCs  
Japan  1 Generalized System of Preferences  
Kazakhstan  1 Generalized System of Preferences 
Republic of Korea  1 Preferential Tariff for LDCs  
Kyrgyz Republic  1 Duty-free treatment for LDCs  
Montenegro  1 Duty-free treatment for LDCs  
Morocco  1 Duty-free treatment for African LDCs  
New Zealand  2 Generalized System of Preferences    
South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreementa 
Norway  1 Generalized System of Preferences  
Russian Federation  2 Generalized System of Preferences (1.1.2010 -10.10.2016)d 
  Generalized System of Preferences (as of 10.10.2016)  
Switzerland  1 Generalized System of Preferences  
Chinese Taipei  1 Duty-free treatment for LDCs  
Tajikistan  1 Duty-free treatment for LDCs  
Thailand  1 Duty-free treatment for LDCs  
Turkey  1 Generalized System of Preferences  
United States  6 African Growth and Opportunity Act  
 
148 WTO document WT/REG/W/141, 2 September 2019.  
149 WTO d ocument WT/L/806.  
150 Viewed at: http://ptadb.wto.org . WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 124 - 
 
  WTO Member  Number of PTAs  Name or description of PTA    
Andean Trade Preference Acte   
Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act    
Former Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands    
Generalized System of Preferences  
  Trade preferences for Nepal  
a Australia and New Zealand both provide preferences under this PTA.  
b The preferences granted under this PTA expired on 31  December  2013.  
c The preferences granted under this PTA expired on 31  December  2015.  
d The preferences granted under this PTA expired on 10  October  2016.  
e The preferences granted under this PTA expired on 31  July 2013.  
Source:  Database on PTAs.  
Government Procurement  
6.39.   To ensure the transparency and predictability of its Parties' procurement regimes, 
the Agreement on Government Procurement sets out notification obligations for its Parties in 
five areas: (i)  national implementing legislation on government procurement; (ii)  procurement 
thresholds in national currencies; (iii) statistics on procurement activities; (iv) modifications to 
schedules of commitments; and (v) media for the publication o f procurement -related information. 
Various notifications were made during the reporting period under these requirements.  
Transparency of TRIPS  
6.40.   The TRIPS Agreement requires WTO Members to notify to the Council for TRIP S their IP laws 
and regulations;  to establish and notify contact points in their administrations for the purposes of 
cooperation with each other , aimed at the eliminati on of trade in infringing goods;  and to notify 
the Council if they wish to use certain options under the Agreement relat ing to substantive 
obligations.  
6.41.   The bulk of notifications are laws and regulations notified pursuant to Article 63.2. Chart  6.5 
shows the  laws and regulations notified from 1995 to mid-October 201 9. Notifications peaked in 
1996, when developed -Members notified e xisting laws or amendments that implemented the 
TRIPS  Agreement. From 2000 onwards, n otifications predominately came from developing Members  
and recently -acceded Members. The most recent rise in notifications reflects  diverse approaches by 
Members in updat ing their IP legal and policy settings in response  to the changing economic, 
technological and social dimensions of IP . The cumulative total of laws and regulations notified as at 
mid-October 2019  was 5,263  legal texts, representing a wide array of distinc t national means of 
adapting and applying TRIPS standards , according to national priorities and wider policy frameworks.  
However, there remain significant gaps in the coverage of more recent laws and legislative 
amendments, as several Members have not upda ted their initial notifications for well over a decade.  
6.42.   Transparency obligations also refer to final judicial decisions and administrative  rulings of a 
general application, pertaining to the subject matter of the TRIPS Agreement, as well as to 
agreements which are in force between the government or a governmental agency of a Member and 
the government or a governmental agency of another Membe r, as provided for by Article  63.1. 
So far, very few Members have shared such information with the TRIPS Council.151 
6.43.   Following the recommendation made by the TRIPS Council in  March 2010152, WTO Members 
agreed to share information on , and notify bilateral agreements related to , the protection of 
geographical indications to which they are a party . The records indicate that few Members have 
shared or notified such agreements to the TRIPS Council, despite the conclusion of a number of suc h 
agreements.  
 
151 See, for example: WTO documents IP/N/1/PHL/2; IP/N/1/GBR/1; and IP/N/1/HKG/3.  
152 Paras . 73 and 74 of WTO document IP/C/M/62.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 125 - 
 
  Chart 6.5 Notified laws and regulations under TRIPS Article 63.2 , from 1995 to 
mid-October 2019  
 
Note:  2019 data cover until mid -October . 
Source:  e-TRIPS .  
TRIPS Checklists  
6.44.   To enable transpare ncy on Part III of the TRIPS Agreement, i.e. on enforcement of IP rights, 
the TRIPS Council agreed that Members should provide responses to an illustrative list of questions 
on their domestic systems, namely the Checklist on Enforcement.153 Similarly, questionnaires were 
agreed to implement the Agreement's built -in reviews under Articles 24.2 on geographical 
indications154 and 27.3(b) on biotech patenting and plant variety protection155. The Council also 
agreed that d eveloped Members will provid e reports on technical cooperation and on transfer of 
technology incentives for the benefit of LDCs.  The resulting notifications and reports are circulated 
and reviewed by the TRIPS Council. They provide detailed  information on measures taken to 
implement the provisions of the TRIPS Agreement at the national level. More specifically, the 
Checklists on enforcement, geographical indications, and biotech patenting have direct bearing on 
trade policy considerations, and touch on many aspects of the global econo my, e.g. the Checklist on 
Enforcement reports in detail on border measures.  
Enforcement  
6.45.   During the review period, the European Union156 and Kazakhstan157 submitted updated 
responses to their respective Checklists on Enforcement; and Samoa submitted its initial  
responses.158 Since 1996, 112 Members have submitted their Checklists, and 16 of those  have 
submitted revisions. However, many Members have not updated their reports for over 20 years. 
Chart  6.6 shows the C hecklists on Enforcement submitted up to  mid-Octobe r 2019. Submissions  
 
153 WTO d ocument IP/C/5; and responses circulated in the IP/N/6/* series of documents.  
154 WTO document IP/C/13 and its Addendum; and responses circulated in the IP/C/W/117/* series of 
documents.  
155 See Checklist in WTO documents IP/C/W/122, and IP/C/W/273 and its Rev.1; and responses circulated 
in the IP/C/W/125/* series of documents.  
156 WTO document IP/N/6/EU/1 updates responses to questions 1 to 25 contained in WTO document 
IP/N/6/EEC/1.  
157 WTO document IP/N/6/KAZ/2 updates responses to questions in WTO document IP/N/6/KAZ/1.  
158 WTO document IP/N/6/WSM/1.  
1,043
503
134135638
307393
136282
78
39142184
806869155238
112
67134
75135
68
01,0002,0003,0004,0005,0006,000
02004006008001,0001,200
Annual number of IP laws notified
Cumulative numberNotified laws and regulations under TRIPS Article 63.2, 1995 -mid-October 2019
Source:   e -TRIPS, 2019 data covers until mid -October.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 126 - 
 
  peaked in 1997 , 2000  and 2001 , when d eveloped and developing  Members deposited their 
respective Checklists.  
Chart 6.6 Checklist on enforcement, 1996 to mid -October 2019  
 
Note:  2019 data cover until mid -October . 
Source:  e-TRIPS . 
Geographical Indications  
6.46.   The Checklist on Geographical Indications – review under Article 24.2 – was submitted by 
only 36  Members159, of which 6 notified updates. During the review period, Ukraine submitted its  
Checklist, and Mexico submitted its updates detailing the implementation of already -notified 
GI-related provisions.160 Chart  6.7 shows the C hecklists on Geographical Indications submitted until 
mid-October  2019. Submissions  peaked in 1999 and 2001 , when d eveloped and developing  
Members deposited their respective Checklists.  
 
159 Australia ; Bulgaria ; Canada ; Chinese Taipei ; Colombia ; Croatia ; Cuba; Czech Republic ; Ecuador ; 
El Salvador ; Estonia ; European Union ; Honduras; Hong Kong, China ; Hungary ; Iceland ; Japan ; 
Republic  of Korea ; Liechtenstein ; Lithuania ; Mexico ; Republic of Moldova ; Morocco ; New Zealand; Norway; Peru; 
Poland; Romania; Slovak Republic; Slovenia; Switzerland; Turkey; United States; Ukraine; Uruguay; and 
Bolivarian  Republic of Venezuela.  
160 WTO documents IP/C/W/117/Add.35  and IP/C/W/117/Add.14/Rev.1, respectively.  
721
7
22126
7
01
0 02
0 0 01 1 1 12 2 2 2
1
051015202530
First submission
UpdatesChecklist on enforcement, 1996 -mid-October 2019
Source:   e -TRIPS, 2019 data covers until mid -October.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 127 - 
 
  Chart 6.7 Checklist on Geographical Indications, 1998 to mid -October 2019  
 
Note:  2019 data cover until mid -October . 
Source:  e-TRIPS.  
Biotech Patenting and Plant Variety Protection  
6.47.   The submission of Checklists on biotech patenting and plant variety protection  – review under 
Article 27.3(b)  – peaked with the start of the review of this provision in 1999. So far, 28 Members161 
have notified their Checklists, and only one has provided an update. During the review period, Mexico 
and Ukraine submitted their responses to the Checklist.162 Chart  6.8 shows the C hecklists on 
Article  27.3(b) submitted until  mid-October  2019. Submissions  peaked in 1999 and 2001 , when 
developed and developing  Members deposited their respective Checklists.  
 
161 Australia ; Bulgaria; Canada; China; Czech Republic; Estonia; European Union ; Hong Kong, China; 
Hungary ; Iceland; Japan ; Republic o f Korea ; Lithuania;  Mexico; Republic of  Moldova; Morocco; New Zealand ; 
Norway;  Poland ; Romania ; Slovak Republic; Slovenia ; South Africa; Switzerland; Thailand; Ukraine; 
United  States; and Zambia.  
162 WTO documents IP/C/W/125/Add.25 for Mexico; and IP/C/W/125 /Add.26 for Ukraine.  
428
2
14
2 2
0 01 1
01
0 0 0 0 01
01 1
051015202530
First submission
UpdatesChecklist on geographical indications, 1998 -mid-October 2019
Source:   e -TRIPS, 2019 data covers until mid -October.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 128 - 
 
  Chart 6.8 Checklist on biotech patenting and plant variety protection, 1999 to 
mid-October 2019  
 
Note:  2019 data cover until mid -October . 
Source:  e-TRIPS . 
e-TRIPS  
6.48.   e-TRIPS is an online submission and management system, designed to facilitate the 
processing of, and access to, TRIPS -related information. It comprises two separate but integrated 
online tools:  
• the e-TRIPS Submission System , which is a means for submitting TRIPS notifications, 
review materials and reports; and  
• the e-TRIPS Gateway , which provides a wide range of opportunities for delegates to 
access and make use of TRIPS information.  
6.49.   The e -TRIPS Submissio n System was officially launched in February 2019. It is now available 
in the three WTO official languages. It enables Members to easily submit TRIPS -related information, 
and streamlines the Secretariat's internal processing. The Secretariat continuously p rovides 
tailor-made training and information material to Members on how to use the System.  
6.50.   In addition, since June 2019, WTO Members have been invited to test the pilot (Beta) version 
of the e -TRIPS Gateway (available at http://tripsims.wto.org ), which is an online information portal 
that allows users to search and extract the full range of TRIPS -related information managed by 
the Secretariat  (Image 6.1) .  
6.51.   The Secretariat provides demonstrations and regular updates to WTO Members regarding the 
Gateway's development. This is intended to provide a fundamental and far -reaching improvement 
in the accessibility, user -friendliness and effective transparency of the full range of information that 
Members have agreed to be ga thered under the aegis of the TRIPS Agreement.  
19
13
1
01
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 02
02468101214161820
First submission
UpdatesChecklist on the biotech patenting and plant variety protection , 1999 -mid-October 2019
Source:   e -TRIPS, 2019 data covers until mid -October.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 129 - 
 
  Image 6.1 e -TRIPS Gateway  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
Services  
6.52.   From mid -October 2018 to mid -October 2019, 44 new notifications were made under various 
GATS provisions, and a further 4 concerned changes to previ ously submitted notifications.  
6.53.   Out of the new notifications submitted, 27 were made under GATS Article  III:3, by 
7 WTO Members. This Article requires each Member to notify to the Council for Trade in Services, at 
least annually, of any regulatory changes that significantly affect trade in services covered by its 
specific commitments. As Chart 6.9 shows, during the reporting period, more notifications were 
made pursuant to Article III:3 than in the  preceding three years.  
Chart 6.9 Notifications received pursuant to GATS Article III:3  
 
Note:  2019 data cover up to 30 September 2019.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
010203040506070Notifications received pursuant to GATS Article III:3
Source: WTO Secretariat.Note: 2019 data cover up to 30 September 2019.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 130 - 
 
  6.54.   During the same reporting period, seven agreements concerning economic integration in 
services were notified under GATS Article V:7, involving 27 WTO Members. These agreements were 
referred to the Committee on Regional Trade Agreements for consideration. After several years, 
during which the number of Economic Integration Agreements notified pursuan t to Article  V:7 was 
on an upward trend, the last few years witnessed a relative slowdown (see Chart  6.10). 
Chart 6.10 Economic Integration Agreements notified pursuant to GATS Article V:7  
 
Note:  2019 data c over up to 30 September 2019.  
The figures include agreements of the EC/EU with its future member States and EU enlargement 
agreements163. 
Notifications of changes to previously notified agreements are not counted.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
6.55.   Ten notifications were made under GATS Article  VII:4 by four WTO Members. This Article 
requires Members to notify to the Council for Trade in Services any new or existing mutual 
recognition agreements or arrangements. As illustrated in Chart 6.11, the number of notification s 
submitted pursuant to Article VII:4 increased markedly over the past two years when compared to 
the previous two decades.  
 
163 On 1 December 2009, the Treaty of Lisbon amending the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty 
establishing the European Community (done at Lisbon, 13 December 2007) entered into force. On 
29 November 2009, the WTO received a Verbal N ote (WTO document WT/L/779) from the Council of the 
European Union and the Commission of the European Communities stating that, by virtue of the Treaty of 
Lisbon, as of 1  December  2009, the European Union replace d and succeed ed the European Community.  
02468101214161820Economic Integration Agreements notified pursuant to GATS Article V:7
Source: WTO Secretariat.Note: 2019 data cover up to 30 September 2019. The figures include Agreements of the EC/EU with its future 
Member States and EU enlargement Agreements. Notifications of changes to previously notified agreements are 
not counted.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 131 - 
 
  Chart 6.11 Notifications received pursuant to GATS Article VII:4  
 
Note:  2019 data cover up to 30 September 2019.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
6.56.   No notifications were received under other GATS provisions during this period.  
 
024681012Notifications received pursuant to GATS Article VII:4
Source: WTO Secretariat.Note: 2019 data cover up to 30 September 2019.WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 132 - 
 
  ANNEX 1  
MEASURES FACILITATIN G TRADE1 
(MID-OCTOBER 201 8 TO MID -OCTOBER  2019) 
Confirmed information2 
Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Afghanistan  
Trade facilitation measures through the reduction of 
export compulsory documents from 10 to 5  Permanent Delegation of 
Afghanistan (26  April 2019)   
Albania  
Reduction of import tariffs under the Expansion of the 
Information Technology Agreement (ITA) (119 tariff 
lines at 6 -digit level, in HS Chapters 32; 35; 37; 39; 
84; 85; 88; 90)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.1,  
28 January 2016   
Argentina  
Amendments introduced to the list of informatics and 
telecommunications goods (182 tariff lines at 8 -digit 
level in NCM Chapters 74; 84; 85; 90), granting the 
elimination of import tariffs  Permanent Delegation of Argentina 
to the WTO (22  May 2019) and 
Decreto No.  973/2018 – 
Nomenclatura Común del Mercosur 
(30 Oc tober 2018)  Effective  
1 November 
2018 
Trade facilitation measure for importers through the 
implementation of the " Documento de Tránsito 
Sanitario Vegetal Electronico (DTV -e)" Permanent Delegation of Argentina 
to the WTO (22  May 2019) and 
Resolución General Conjunta 4297, 
Administración Federal de Ingresos 
Públicos y Servicio Nacional de 
Sanidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria 
(24 August 2018)  Effective  
25 December 
2018 
Trade facilitation measure for exporters through the 
implementation of the " Documento de Tránsito 
Sanitario Vegetal Electronico (DTV -e)" Permanent Delegation of Argentina 
to the WTO (22  May 2019) and 
Resolución General Conjunta 4297, 
Administración Federal de Ingresos 
Públicos y Servicio Nacional de 
Sanidad y Calidad Agroalimentar ia 
(24 August 2018)  Effective  
25 December 
2018 
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on certain 
parts and accessories of motorcycles not locally 
produced in Mercosur, destined for transformation by 
local industries (8 tariff lines at 8 -digit level in NC M 
8703 and 8711)  Permanent Delegation of Argentina 
to the WTO (22  May 2019) and 
Decreto No.  81/2019 – 
Nomenclatura Común del Mercosur 
(24 January 2019)  Effective until  
31 December 
2023 
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on certain 
parts and accessories of motorcycles not locally 
produced in Mercosur, destined for transformation by 
local industries (8 tariff lines at 8 -digit level in NCM 
8703 and 8711)  Permanent Delegation of Argentina 
to the WTO (22  May 2019) and 
Decreto No.  81/2019 – 
Nomencl atura Común del Mercosur 
(24 January 2019)  Effective until  
31 December 
2023 
Simplification of administrative customs procedures 
(i.e. elimination of export controls, registered exporter 
rules and selected sea ports) on exports of raw hides 
and skins of bo vine or equine animals (fresh, or 
salted, dried, limed, pickled or otherwise preserved, 
but not tanned, parchment -dressed or further 
prepared), whether or not dehaired or split (NCM 
4101)  Permanent Delegation of Argentina 
to the WTO (22  May 2019) and 
Resol ución No. 4454/2019, 
Administración Federal de Ingresos 
Públicos (1 April 2019)  Effective 5 April 
2019 
Temporary reduction of the import tariff (to 2%) on 
imports of poly(vinyl chloride), not mixed with any 
other substance (NCM  3904.10.20), under an import 
quota of 5,000  tonnes  Permanent Delegation of Argentina 
to the WTO (25  October  2019) and 
MERCOSUR/CCM/DIR. No. 35/19 
(27 July 2019)  Effective  
5 October 2019, 
for 12  months  
 
1 The inclusion of any measure in this Annex  implies no judgement by the WTO Secretariat on whether a 
measure, or its intent, is protectionist in nature. Moreover, nothing in the Annex  implies any judgement, either 
direct or indirect, on the consistency of a ny measure with the provisions of any WTO agreement.  
2 This Section  includes information which has either been provid ed by the Member concerned or has been 
confirmed at the request of the Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 133 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Reduction of import tariffs (to 5% and 2%) on certain 
gas engines; road tractors for semi -trailers; motor 
vehicles for the transport of goods; and chassis fitted 
with engines, for the motor vehicles of headings HS 
8701 to 8705, under certain import quotas (NCM 
8407.34.90; 8701.20.00; 8704.31.10; 8704. 31.90; 
8704.32.10; 8704.32.90; 8704.90.00; 8706.00.10)  Permanent Delegation of Argentina 
to the WTO (25  October  2019) and 
Decreto No. 440/2019, 
Nomenclatura Común del Mercosur 
– Derecho de Importación 
Extrazone (28 June 2019)  Effective 1 July 
2019 
Austral ia 
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (86 tariff lines at 6 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
32; 35; 37; 39; 49; 59; 84; 85; 90; 95)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.2,  
26 January 2016  Effective 1 J uly 
2019 
Bangladesh  
Elimination of export duties (from 10% to zero) on 
tobacco and manufactured tobacco. Reduction of 
export duties (from 25% to 15%) on building bricks 
(HS 2401.10.00; 2401.20.00; 2401.30.00; 
6904.10.00)  Permanent Delegation of 
Bangladesh to the WTO 
(24 October 2019)  Effective 1 July 
2019 
Brazil  
Temporary reduction (to 2%) of import tariffs on 
6-hexanelactam (NCM 2933.71.00), under an import 
quota of 2,000 tonnes (effective 16 October 2018); on 
poly(ethylene terephthalate) (NCM  3907.61.00), 
under an import quota of 1,000 tonnes (effective 
30 December 2018); on soda lye or liquid soda in 
aqueous solution (NCM 2815.12.00), under an import 
quota of 88,000 tonnes (effective 28 December 2018 
to 27 December 2019); on certain printing inks (NCM 
3215.19.00), under an import quota of 720 tonnes 
(effective 30 December 2018 to 29 December 2019); 
on jute (NCM 5303.10.10), under an import quota of 
7,000 tonnes (effective 28  December 2018 to 
27 December 2019); on polycarbonates (NCM 
3907.40.90 ), under an import quota of 35,040 tonnes 
(effective 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019); on 
black printing ink (NCM 3215.11.00), under an import 
quota of 455 tonnes (effective 23 January 2019 to 
22 January 2020); on disodium sulphate (NCM 
2833.11.10), und er an import quota of 910,000 
tonnes (effective 31 January 2019 to 30 January 
2020); on polyamide -6 (NCM 3908.10.24), under an 
import quota of 14,200 tonnes (effective 10 December 
2018 to 9 December 2019); on sulphates ( de cromo ) 
(NCM 2833.29.60), under an  import quota of 500,000 
tonnes (effective 10 December 2018 to 9 December 
2019); on chemical preparations for photographic 
uses (NCM 3707.90.21), under an import quota of 
1,700 tonnes (effective 7 December 2018 to 
6 December 2019); on acrylic polymers in p rimary 
forms (NCM 3906.90.49), under an import quota of 
800 tonnes (effective 7 December 2018 to 
6 December 2019); on p -Xylene (NCM 2902.43.00), 
under an import quota of 290,000 tonnes (effective 
22 December 2018 to 21 December 2019); on malt, 
not roasted (NCM 1107.10.10), under an import quota 
of 400,000 tonnes (effective 22 December 2018 to 
21 December 2020); on elastomeric of high tenacity 
yarn (NCM 5402.47.10), under an import quota of 
2,200 tonnes (effective 2 January 2019 to 1 January 
2020); on alumin ium foil rolled but not further worked 
(NCM 7607.11.90), under an import quota of 
2,137  tonnes (effective 1  February 2019 to 31 
January 2020); on dimethylamine (NCM 2921.11.21), 
under an import quota of 12,000 tonnes (effective 
23 January 2019 to 22 January 2020); and on 
sardines (NCM 0303.53.00), under an import quota of 
120,000 tonnes (effective 8 February 2019 to  
8 February 2020)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019), Camex 
Resolution Nos. 75/2018 
(15 October 2018), 87/2018 
(19 November 2018), 91/2018 
(5 December 2018), 98/2018 
(7 December 2018) and 105/2018 
(27 December 2018); Secex 
Portaria Nos. 67/2018, 68/2018, 
69/2018, 70/2018, 71/2018 
(13 December 2018), 75/2018, 
76/2018, 77/2018 and 78/2018 
(28 December 2018); and Secint 
Portaria No. 154  (6 February 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates 
in measure  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 134 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on casein 
(paracaseína ), styrene -acrylonitrile (SAN) copolymers, 
acrylonitrile -butadiene -styrene (ABS) copolymers, 
electric conductors for a  voltage exceeding 1,000 V, 
and on certain amusement park structures (NCM 
3501.10.00; 3903.20.00; 3903.30.20; 8544.60.00; 
9508.90.90) (effective 10  December 2018). 
Elimination of import tariffs on certain miscellaneous 
chemical products (NCM 3808.69.90) (e ffective 
17 October 2018)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019) and 
Camex Resolution Nos. 77/2018  
(17 October 2018) and 98/2018  
(7 December 2018)  Effective: see 
individual dates 
in measure  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on certain 
vaccines for humans ( hepatite B ), under an import 
quota of 24 million doses; on certain vaccines for 
humans ( raiva), under an import quota of 3 million 
doses; on certain vaccines for humans ( hepatite A ), 
under an import quota of 4.5  million doses; on certain 
vaccines for humans (d ifteria, tétano e pertussis, 
acelular ), under an import quota of 5  million doses; 
and on certain vaccines for humans ( virus do 
papiloma humano tetravalente recombinante ), under 
an import quota of 10 million doses 
(NCM  3002. 20.23; 3002.20.27; 3002.20.29)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019), Camex 
Resolution Nos. 75/2018 (15 
October 2018) and 78/2018 (23 
October 2018), and Secex Portaria 
Nos. 75/2018, 76/2018, 77/2018 
and 78/2018  (28 December 2018)  Effectiv e 
16 October 2018  
Elimination of the temporary increase of import tariffs 
on gypsum boards (NCM  6809.11.00)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019) and 
Camex Resolution No. 101/2018  
(17 December 2018)  Effective  
17 December 
2018 
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 720 capital 
goods tariff lines, and 49 informatics and 
telecommunications goods tariff lines (NCM Chapters 
84; 85; 90; 94), through the "ex -out" regime 
(mechanism designed to temporarily reduce import 
tariffs on capital goo ds and informatics and 
telecommunications equipment not locally produced)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019), Camex 
Resolution Nos. 85/2018, 86/2018  
(9 November 2018), 95/2018 and 
96/2018 (7 December 2018)  Effective until  
30 June 2020  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 506 capital 
goods tariff lines, and 33 informatics and 
telecommunications goods tariff lines (NCM Chapters 
84; 85; 86; 87; 89; 90; 94), through the "ex -out" 
regime  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019) and Secint 
Portaria Nos. 219/2019 and 
220/2019  (25 February 2019)  Effective until  
30 December 
2020 
Decrease of import tariffs (from 6% to 2%) on shelled 
hazelnuts (NCM  0802.22.00); (from 14% to 2%) on 
photographic film in rolls for x -ray (NCM  3702.10.20); 
(from 16% to 2%) on parts and accessories for pianos 
(NCM 9209.91.00); and (from 12% to 2%) on esters 
of acrylic acid (NCM 2916.12.20); and on viscose 
rayon staple fibres (NCM  5504.10.00)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22  May 2019) and 
Camex Resolution No. 58/2018  
(31 August 2018)  Effective  
1 January 2019  
Decrease of import tariffs (to 2%) on certain inorganic 
and organic chemicals (49 tariff lines at 8 -digit level in 
NCM Chapters 28 and 29)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019) and Secint 
Portaria No. 241/2019 (20 March 
2019)  Effective  
29 March 2019  
Temporary reduction of import tariffs (to 2%) on vinyl 
chloride -vinyl acetate copolymers (NCM 3904.30.00), 
under an import quota of 6,000 tonnes  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019), Secint 
Portaria No.  390/2019 (6 May 
2019) and Secex Portaria No. 
12/2019 (9 May 2019)  Effective 10 May 
2019 to 9 May 
2020 
Temporary reduction of import tariffs (to 2%) on 
metal permanen t magnets (NCM 8505.11.00), under 
an import quota of 360,000 tonnes; on titanium 
oxides (NCM  2823.00.10), under an import quota of 
12,000 tonnes; on acrylonitrile -butadiene -styrene 
(ABS) copolymers (NCM 3903.31.00), under an 
import quota of 105,000 tonnes;  on palm kernel or 
babassu oil and fractions thereof (NCM 1513.29.10), 
under an import quota of 224,785 tonnes; on 
mixtures of odoriferous substances, and mixtures 
(including alcoholic solutions) with a basis of one or 
more of these substances, of a kind u sed as raw 
materials in industry; other preparations based on 
odoriferous substances, of a kind used for the 
manufacture of beverages (NCM 3302.90.90), under Secint Portaria No. 421/2019  
(2 May 2019) and Secex Portaria 
No. 15/2019 (27 May 2019)  Effective 27 May 
2019 to 26 May 
2020 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 135 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
an import quota of 1,250 tonnes; and on certain 
electrical apparatus for switching or protecting 
electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in 
electrical circuits, for a voltage exceeding 1,000 volts 
(NCM 8535.90.00), under an import quota of 500 
units 
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 308 capital 
goods tariff lines, and 62 informatics and 
telecommunications goods tariff lines (NCM Chapters 
84; 85; 90), through the "ex -out" regime  Secint Portaria Nos. 440/2019, 
441/2019 (10 June 2019) and 
2023/209 (12  September 2019)  Effective until  
31 December 
2020 
Temporary reduction of import tariffs (to 2%) on 
poly(vinyl chloride), not mixed with any other 
substances (NCM 3904.10.20), under an import quota 
of 12,000 tonnes ( effective 19 July 2019); on certain 
polytetrafluoroethylene (NCM 3904.90.00), under an 
import quota of 3,794 tonnes (effective 19 July 
2019); on polymers of propylene films (NCM 
3920.20.19), under an import quota of 600 tonnes 
(effective 19 July 2019); on certain amine -function 
compounds (NCM 2921.19.23), under an import quota 
of 26,282 tonnes (effective 14 August 2019); on 
mono -, di- or trichloroacetic acids, and their salts and 
esters (NCM 2915.40.10), under an import quota of 
4,500 tonnes (effective 27 J une 2019); insecticides 
(NCM 3808.91.95), under an import quota of 1,500 
tonnes (effective 27  June 2019); on yarns of 
polyester, partially oriented (NCM 5402.46.00), under 
an import quota of 127,575 tonnes (effective 27 June 
2019); on high tenacity yarns o f polyester, whether or 
not textured (NCM 5402.20.00), under an import 
quota of 8,000 tonnes (effective 24  July 2019); on 
acrylic or modacrylic filament tow (NCM 5501.30.00), 
under an import quota of 6,240 tonnes (effective 
23 August 2019); on acrylic or m odacrylic synthetic 
staple fibres (NCM 5503.30.00), under an import 
quota of 9,000 tonnes (effective 14 August 2019); on 
unwrought nickel not allowed (NCM 7502.10.10), 
under an import quota of 7,200 tonnes (effective 27 
June 2019); on compounds containing an unfused 
triazine ring in the structure ( ametrina ) (NCM 
2933.69.91), under an import quota of 3,750 tonnes 
(effective 29 July 2019); on lignin sulphonates (NCM 
3804.00.20), under an import quota of 72,000 tonnes 
(effective 29 July 2019); and on other pol yethers 
(pape) (NCM 3907.20.39), under an import quota of 
2,000 tonnes (effective 29  July 2019)  Secint Portaria Nos. 468/2019  
(27 June 2019), 504/2019  
(19 July 2019) and 512/2019  
(29 July 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates 
in measure  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 1,106 
capital goods tariff lines, and 38 informatics and 
telecommunications goods tariff lines (NCM Chapters 
84; 85; 90), through the "ex -out" regime  Secint Portaria Nos. 510/2019, 
511/2019 (26 July 2019), 
531/2019, 532/201 9 (20  August 
2019) and 2024/2019 
(12 September 2019)  Effective until  
31 December 
2021 
Reduction of import tariffs (to 4%) on aluminium 
electrolytic; (to 8%) on automatic circuit breakers and 
electric conductors for a voltage exceeding 1,000  V 
fitted with connectors; (to 12%) on sanitary towels 
and napkins for babies; (from 12% to 2%) on 
aluminium alloys, rectangular (including square) 
plates, sheets and strip, of a thickness exceeding 0.2 
mm; (from 10% to 6%) on acrylic acid and its salts; 
(from 14% to 8%)  on certain pharmaceutical 
products; and (from 12% to 8%) on acrylic polymers 
in primary forms (NCM 8532.22.00; 8536.20.00; 
8544.42.00; 9619.00.00; 7606.12.90; 2916.11.10; 
3004.90.99; 3906.90.44)  Secint Portaria No. 523/2019  
(2 August 2019)  Effective  
2 August 2019  
Temporary reduction of imports tariffs (from 18% to 2%) 
on reciprocating piston engines (of a cylinder capacity 
exceeding 1,000 cc) used for the propulsion of vehicles of 
HS Chapter 87 (NCM 8407.34.90); and  on-road wheels 
and parts and accesso ries thereof (NCM 8708.70.90)  Secint Portaria No. 523/2019  
(2 August 2019)  Effective until  
31 December 
2019 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 136 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Elimination of import tariffs (from 2%) on 
immunological products, put up in measured doses or 
in forms or packings for retail sale (NCM 3002.15.90); 
(from 8%) on certain pharmaceutical products 
consisting of mixed or unmixed products for 
therapeutic or prophylactic uses, put up in measured 
doses or in forms or packings for retail sale (NCM 
3004.90.69; 3004.90.79); and (from 16%) on electri c 
scalpels (NCM 9018.90.99)  Secint Portaria No. 523/2019  
(2 August 2019)  Effective  
2 August 2019  
Reduction of import tariffs (from 40% to 32% or 
16%) on certain video games consoles and machines 
(NCM 9504.50.00)  Decreto No. 9971 – Presidência da 
República , Secretaria -Geral, 
Subchefia para Assuntos Jurídicos  
(14 August 2019)  Effective  
15 August 2019  
Temporary reduction of import tariffs (from 12% to 
2%) on uncoated paper and paperboard weighing 
more than 150g/m2 but less than 225 g/m2 (NCM 
4805.92.90), und er an import quota of 15,993 
tonnes; and (from 6% to 2%) on pigments and 
preparations containing 80% or more by weight of 
titanium dioxide, calculated on the dry matter (NCM 
3206.11.10), under an import quota of 12,580 
tonnes. Temporary elimination of impo rt tariffs (from 
6%) on aluminium, not alloyed (NCM 7601.10.00), 
under an import quota of 141,250 tonnes  Secint Portaria No. 523/2019  
(2 August 2019)  Effective until  
31 December 
2019 
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 
undenatured ethyl alcohol of an alcoholic strength by 
volume of 80% vol. or higher; and ethyl alcohol and 
other spirits, denatured, of any strength, under an 
import quota of 750 million L (NCM 2207.10.10; 
2207.20.11)  Secint Portaria No. 547/2019  
(31 August 2019)  Effective  
31 August 2019  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 347 capital 
goods tariff lines, (NCM Chapters 84; 85; 90; 94), 
through the "ex -out" regime  Secint Portaria No. 531/2019  
(20 August 2019)  Effective until  
31 December 
2021 
Elimination of non -automati c licensing requirements 
on imports of certain papers (NCM 4802; 4810)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (12 October 2019)  Effective  
6 September 
2019 
Temporary reduction of import tariffs (to 2%) on 
sodium sulphites (NCM 2832.10.10), under an impo rt 
quota of 24,650 tonnes; nickel alloys tubes (NCM 
7507.12.00), under an import quota of 2,500 tonnes; 
contact lenses (NCM 9001.30.00), under an import 
quota of 6.5 million units; and on certain blood 
pressure instruments and appliances (NCM 
9018.90.92), under an import quota of 2.5 million 
units Secint Portaria No. 1683  
(11 September 2019) and Secex 
Portaria No. 35/2019 (17 
September 2019)  Effective  
18 September 
2019 to 17 
September 2020  
Canada  
Elimination of the countermeasures imposed (surtaxes 
of 25% and 10%) against the United States in 
response to U.S. tariffs imposed on Canadian steel 
and aluminium products. Surtax of 25% on 131 steel 
tariff lines (in HS Chapters 7206; 7207; 7208; 7209; 
7210; 7211; 7212; 7213; 7214; 7215; 7216; 7217 ; 
7218; 7221; 7222; 7223; 7224; 7225; 7226; 7227; 
7228; 7229; 7304; 7305; 7306); surtax of 10% on 19 
aluminium tariff lines (in HS Chapters 7604; 7610; 
7611; 7612; 7613; 7615; 7616); and surtax of 10% 
on 79 tariff lines (in Chapters HS 0403; 0901; 1602; 
1702; 1704; 1806; 1905; 2001; 2007; 2009; 2103; 
2104; 2202; 2208; 3304; 3305; 3307; 3401; 3402; 
3406; 3506; 3808; 3923; 3924; 4412; 4802; 4811; 
4818; 4822; 4909; 7321; 8418; 8419; 8422; 8433; 
8450; 8903; 9401; 9404; 9504; 9608) (originally 
implemented on  1 July 2018)  Permanent Delegation of Canada 
to the WTO (28 October 2019)  Effective 20 May 
2019 
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (56 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
35; 37; 39;  84; 85; 88; 90)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.3,  
28 January 2016  Effective 1 July 
2019 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 137 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
China  
Reduction of import tariffs on certain products (1,585 
tariff lines at 8 -digit level in HS Chapters 03; 13; 15; 
20; 21; 25; 27; 28; 29; 30; 37; 40; 41; 42; 44; 45; 
48; 49; 50; 51; 52; 53; 54; 55; 56; 58; 59; 60; 68; 
69; 70; 71; 72; 73; 74; 76; 81; 82; 83; 84; 85; 86; 
87; 89; 90; 92; 94; 96)  Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WTO (23 April 2019) and 
Customs Tariff Commission 
Announcement No. 9/2018 on 
reduction of import tariffs for 
certain commodities. Viewed at: 
http://gss.mof.gov.cn/zhengwuxin
xi/zhengcefabu/201809/P0201809
30650864922349.pdf  Effective  
1 November 
2018 
Imposition of interim tariffs, resulting in the 
temporary reduction of import tariffs on certain 
products, e.g. live animals; fish and crustaceans; 
dairy produce; products of animal origin; edible fruits 
and nuts; oil seeds and oleaginous fruits; vegetable 
saps and extracts; vegetable products; animal or 
vegetable fats and oils; coc oa and cocoa preparations; 
preparations of cereals, flour, starch or milk; 
miscellaneous edible preparations; beverages; 
residues and waste from food industries; tobacco and 
manufactured tobacco; salt, earths and stone, lime 
and cement; mineral fuels and o ils; inorganic and 
organic chemicals; pharmaceutical products; 
fertilizers; tanning or dyeing extracts; perfumery; 
soap and organic surface -active agents; albuminoidal 
substances; photographic or cinematographic goods; 
miscellaneous chemical products; plas tics and articles 
thereof; rubber and articles thereof; raw hides and 
skins; furskins and artificial fur; wood and articles of 
wood; cork and articles of cork; paper and 
paperboard; printed books; cotton; other vegetable 
textile fibres; wadding; articles o f apparel and clothing 
accessories; articles of stone, plaster, and cement; 
ceramic products; glass and glassware; precious or 
semi-precious stones; iron and steel; copper and 
articles thereof; nickel and articles thereof; other base 
metals; tools of base metals; machinery and 
mechanical appliances; electrical machinery; vehicles; 
instruments, parts and accessories thereof; and 
miscellaneous manufactured articles (HS Chapters 01; 
03; 04; 05; 08; 12; 13; 14; 15; 18; 19; 21; 22; 23; 
24; 25; 27; 28; 29; 30; 31 ; 32; 33; 34; 35; 37; 38; 
39; 40; 41; 43; 44; 45; 48; 49; 52; 53; 56; 61; 62; 
63; 68; 69; 70; 71; 72; 74; 75; 81; 82; 84; 85; 87; 
90; 91; 92; 96)  Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WTO (22 May 2019) and 
Announcement No. 65/2018 of the 
Customs Tariff Comm ission  Effective  
1 January 2019  
Suspension of the imposition of additional tariffs on 
imports of certain vehicles, and parts and accessories 
thereof (211 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapter 
87), from the United States  Permanent Delegation of Chin a to 
the WTO (22 May 2019)  Effective from  
1 January 2019 
to 31 March 
2019. On  1 April 
2019 the 
suspension was 
extended  
Reduction of VAT (to 3%) on certain imported 
pharmaceutical products for rare diseases (HS 2930; 
2933; 2934; 2935; 3002; 3004)  Permanent  Delegation of China to 
the WTO (22 May 2019)  Effective  
1 March 2019  
VAT rebate rates were increased on exports of certain 
products, e.g. (to 16%) on photographic paper and 
film, plastics, bamboo floor coverings, woven rattan, 
tempered safety glass and la mps; (to 13%) on 
lubricants, aircraft tyres, carbon fibre and certain 
metal products; and (to 10%) on certain agricultural 
products, bricks, tiles and glass fibre  Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WTO (22 May 2019)  Effective  
1 November 
2018 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 138 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Reduction of export duties on certain products, e.g. 
bones and horn -cores, zinc ores and concentrates, tin 
ores and concentrates, phosphorus, benzene, iron and 
steel, copper and articles thereof, nickel and articles 
thereof, aluminium and articles thereof,  zinc and 
articles thereof, and unwrought antimony (HS 0506; 
2608; 2609; 2804; 2902; 7201; 7202; 7402; 7403; 
7404; 7407; 7408; 7409; 7502; 7508; 7601; 7602; 
7604; 7605; 7606; 7901; 8110)  Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WTO (22 May 2019)  Effective  
1 January 2019  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (265 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
32; 35; 37; 39; 49; 59; 84; 85; 88; 90)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.4,  
28 January 2016  Effective 
1 July 2019  
Certain products temporarily exempted (e.g. shrimps 
and prawns; lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets; flour, 
meals and pellets, of fish or of crustaceans, molluscs 
or other aquatic invertebrates; certain petroleum oils; 
organic chemicals; organic surface -active agents, 
whether or not put up for retail sale; apparatus for 
medical uses; and whey) from the additional tariffs 
imposed on imports from the United States (imposed 
on 6 July and 23 August 2018)  Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WT O (25 October 2019) and 
Announcement of the Customs 
Tariff Commission (CTC) of the 
State Council on the first set of 
lists of U.S. products to be 
excluded from the first group of 
U.S. products subject to additional 
tariffs (CTC Announcement [2019] 
No. 6).  
Viewed at: 
http://gss.mof.gov.cn/zhengwuxin
xi/zhengcefabu/201909/t20190911
_3384638.html  Effective  
17 September 
2019 to 16 
September 2020  
Colombia  
Trade facilitation measures through the enlargement 
of import operations processed through the Single 
Window for Foreign Trade (VUCE 2.0)  Permanent Delegation of Colombia 
to the WTO (30 April 2019)  Effective  
5 December 
2018 
Trade facilitation measures through the enlargement 
of export operations processed through the Single 
Window for Foreign Trade (VUCE 2.0) Permanent Delegation of Colombia 
to the WTO (30 April 2019)  Effective  
5 December 
2018 
Extension of the temporary elimination of import 
tariffs on certain used agricultural machinery (HS 
8432; 8433; 8434; 8436; 8437; 8438)  Permanent Delegation of Colombia 
to the WTO (16 October 2019)  Effective  
15 August 2019 
to 15 August 
2021 
Costa Rica  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on rice in the 
husk (paddy or rough) (HS 1006.10.90), under an 
import quota of 44,403 metric tonnes  Permanen t Delegation of Costa 
Rica to the WTO (23 April 2019)  Effective  
January 2019 to  
June 2019  
Creation of a new tariff line "certain strip of plastic" 
(HS 3920.20.15) resulting in the elimination of import 
tariffs  Permanent Delegation of Costa 
Rica to the WTO (23  April 2019)  Effective 1 April 
2019 
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on rice in the 
husk (paddy or rough) (HS  1006.10.90), under an 
import quota of 19,520 metric tonnes (effective 
August 2019 to June 2020); on kidney beans ( frijol 
rojo y neg ro) (HS 0713.10.00; 0713.33.40), under an 
import quota of 2,199 metric tonnes (effective 
September 2019 to December 2019); and on maize 
(HS 1005.90.30), under an import quota of 21,247 
metric tonnes (effective September 2019 to June 
2020)  Permanent Delegat ion of Costa 
Rica to the WTO (29 October 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates 
in measure  
Egypt  
Elimination of export taxes on fresh, refrigerated and 
frozen fish (HS  Chapter  03) Permanent Delegation of Egypt to 
the WTO (22 May  2019)  Effective  
6 January 2019  
European Union  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (131 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
35; 37; 39; 59; 84; 85; 88; 90)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.7/Rev.1,  
20 February 2017  Effective from  
1 July 2019  
The Gambia  
Trade facilitation measures through the reduction of 
the customs processing fees (from 1.55% to 1%) for 
all import operations  Permanent Delegation of the 
Gambia (22 May 2019)  Effective  
1 January 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 139 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Guyana  
Trade facilitation measures through the establishment 
of the Single Window System for Foreign Trade 
(imports)  Permanent Delegation of Guyana 
to the WTO (14 October 2019)  Effective  
12 June 2019  
Trade facilitation measures through the establishment 
of the Single Window System for Foreign Trade 
(exports)  Permanent Delegation of Guyana 
to the WTO (14 October 2019)  Effective  
12 June 2019  
India  
Amendments introduced to the import policy of 
aviation gasoline (HS 2710.12.19), resulting in an 
import liberalization  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Notification No.  51/2015 -2020, 
Ministry of Commerce and Industry 
– Department of Commerce (8 
January 2019)  Effective  
8 January 2019  
Reduction of import tariffs on electrically operated 
vehicles and motorcycles (HS  8702; 8703; 8704; 
8711), under certain conditions  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Notification No.  3/2019 -Customs, 
Ministry of Finance – Department 
of Revenue  (29 Janu ary 2019)  Effective  
30 January 2019  
Reduction of import tariffs on certain products; e.g. 
(from 7.5% to zero) on chemical elements for use in 
generation of nuclear power (effective 6 July 2019); 
(from 5% to 4%) on certain petroleum oils (naphtha) 
(effecti ve 6 July 2019); (from 2% to zero) on 
ethylene dichloride (ISO) (effective 6 July 2019); 
(from 7.5% to 5%) methyloxirane (propylene oxide) 
(effective 6 July 2019); (from 5% to 2.5%) on wool 
fibre and wool tops; raw materials used in 
manufacture of cold -rolled grain oriented iron and 
steel; cobalt mattes and other intermediate products 
of cobalt metallurgy (effective 6  July 2019); (from 
10% to 5%) on amorphous alloy ribbon (effective 6 
July 2019). Elimination of import tariffs on parts of 
telephone handsets (effective 6  July 2019); and on 
open cells (15.6" and above) for use in the 
manufacture of liquid crystal display (LCD) and light 
emitting diode (LED) TV panels of heading HS 8529; 
and on the following goods (i)  chips on film; (ii) 
printed circuit board as semblies (PCBA); and (iii) cells 
(glass board/substrate), for use in the manufacture of 
open cells of LCD and LED TV panels of heading HS 
8529 (effective 17 September 2019) (HS  2844.20.00; 
2710; 2903.15.00; 2910.20.00; 5101; 5105; 7225; 
7225.19.90; 7226.99 .30; 8105.20.10; 8518.30.00; 
8529)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates 
in measure  
Elimination of export duties (from 15%) on tanned 
leather. Reduction of export duties (from 60% to 
40%) on hides, skin s and leathers, tanned and 
untanned, all sorts (HS 41)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification No. 27/2019 -Customs, 
Ministry of Finance – Department 
of Revenue  (6 July 2019)  Effective 6 July 
2019 
Amendments introduced t o the list of imported capital 
goods exempted from import tariffs used in the 
manufacture of finished goods (e.g. populated PCBA, 
camera module of cellular mobile phones, 
charger/adapter, lithium ion cell, display module, set 
top box and compact camera mod ule) (HS Chapters 
82; 84; 85; 90)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification No. 22/2019 -Customs, 
Ministry of Finance – Department 
of Revenue  (6 July 2019)  Effective 6 July 
2019 
Indonesia  
Elimination of import tariffs on certain products, e.g. 
floor coverings of plastic, new pneumatic tyres, 
articles of iron and steel, machinery and mechanical 
appliances, electrical machinery and equipment, and 
paper and paperboard (HS Chapters 39; 40; 44; 48; 
72; 73; 76; 84; 85 ; 90; 94), imported for specific 
industrial sectors  Permanent Delegation of Indonesia 
to the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Regulation No. 209/PMK.010/2018 
– Ministry of Finance 
(31 December 2018)  Effective  
1 January 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 140 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Israel  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (119 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
32; 35; 37; 39; 49; 84; 85; 88; 90; 95)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.11,  
28 January 2016  Effective 1 July 
2019 
Japan  
Elimination of import tariffs on naphthols and their 
salts (HS 2907.15); vinylene carbonate, 
fluoroethylene carbonate, ethyl methyl carbonate, 
propylene carbonate and diethyl carbonate (HS 
2920.90); hexamethylenediamine and its salts (HS 
2921.22); crystal violet lactone (HS 2932.20); bio -
polyethylene (HS 3901.10; 3901.20; 3901.40; 
3901.90); and polytrimethylene terephtalate 
(HS 3907.99)  Permanent Delegation of Japan to 
the WTO (15 May 2019)  Effective 1 April 
2019 
Kenya  
Decrease of import tariffs on certain products, e.g. 
(from 10% to zero) on fuel wood, polymers of vinyl 
acetate, copolymers, wood sawn or chipped 
lengthwise; on broken rice; flat -rolled products of 
silicon -electrical steel, not further worked than hot -
rolled, in coils; aerosol cans; ce rtain copper inputs 
used for manufacture of radiators; (from 35% to 
10%) on wheat grain; (from 25% to zero) on certain 
hot-rolled iron or steel bars and rods; (to zero) on 
inputs used in the manufacture of tiles; seat recliner 
mechanism; hooks, eyes and ey elets, slide fasteners 
(HS 4401.10.00; 3905; 1006.40.00; 3905.91.00; 
4407; 7225.30.00; 7213.99; 7409.11.00; 
7409.19.00; 7409.21.00; 7409.29.00; 7410.11.00; 
7410.12.00; 2517.49.00; 7210.61.00; 3906.90.00; 
9401.90.00; 8308.10.00; 9607.11.00)  Permanent Delega tion of Kenya to 
the WTO (17 October 2019)  Effective 1 July 
2019 
Reduction of the import declaration fees (from 2% to 
1.5%) on imports of raw materials and intermediate 
goods  Permanent Delegation of Kenya to 
the WTO (17 October 2019)  Effective 1 July 
2019 
Korea, Republic of  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (443 tariff lines at 10 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
32; 35; 37; 39; 59; 63; 84; 85; 88; 90)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.13 , 
28 January 2016  Effective 1 July 
2019 
Malaysia  
Reduction of import tariffs (from 25% to 15%) on 
bicycles and other cycles (including delivery tricycles), 
not motorized (HS 8712.00.30)  Customs Duties (Amendment) (No. 
3) – Order 2018 (31  December 
2018)  Effective  
1 January 2019  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (50 tariff lines at 9 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
35; 37; 39; 49; 84; 85; 90; 95)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.14,  
28 January 2016  Effective 1 July 
2019 
Mauritius  
Reduction of excise duty on certain imported 
products, e.g. gasoil, gasoline, certain electric 
vehicles, plug -in hybrid vehicles, non -fossil fuel 
outboard motors; and yachts and other ves sels for 
pleasure or sport equipped with outboard motors 
using non -fossil fuel (HS 2710; 8703; 8407; 8408; 
8903)  Permanent Delegation of Mauritius 
to the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective  
11 June 2019  
Elimination of VAT on certain imported products, e.g. 
linseed, mustard seeds, papadum, sagoo, sesamum 
seeds, tookmaria, vermicelli, graduated compression 
garments, graduated compression hosiery, graduated 
compression gloves, graduated compression 
headgear, and cooking gas in cylinders of up to 12 kg 
(HS 1204; 1207; 1903; 1211; 1902; 6114; 6115; 
6116; 6506; 2711)  Permanent Delegation of Mauritius 
to the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective  
11 June 2019  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (4 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapters 49; 
85; 95)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.15,  
28 January 2016  Effective 1 July 
2019 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 141 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Elimination of export ban on scrap metals (HS 
7204:7403; 7404; 7502; 7503; 7601; 7602; 7802; 
7902; 8002; 8101; 8102; 8103; 8104; 8105; 8106; 
8107; 8108; 8109; 8110; 8111; 8112; 8113)  Permanent Delegation of Mauritius 
to the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective  
15 September 
2019 
Mexico  
Extension of the temporary elimination of import 
tariffs on meat of swine, chilled or frozen (HS 0203), 
under import quotas (from 28 December 2018 to 31 
January 2019: 91,543 tonnes; from 1 February 2019 
to 31 March 2019: 157,179 tonnes; and from 1 April 
2019 to 30 June 2019: 240,000 tonnes)  Permanent Delegation of Mexico to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Diarios Oficiales de la Federación 
(Official Journals),  28 December 
2018, 29 January 2019 and  
22 March 2019  Effective  
28 December 
2018 to 30 June 
2019 
Additional quantity of 55,000 tonnes of meat of 
poultry, chilled or frozen (HS  0207), imported  under 
an import quota in order to keep supply options  Permanent Delegation of Mexico to 
the WTO (28 October 2019) and 
Diario Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal), 24 May 2019  Effective 25 May 
2019 
Montenegro  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (109 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
32; 35; 37; 39; 59; 84; 85; 88; 90)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.16,  
28 January 2016  Effective 1 July 
2019 
New Zealand  
Further red uction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (199 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
32; 35; 37; 39; 84; 85; 88; 90; 95)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.17,  
28 January 2016; and Permanent 
Delegation of N ew Zealand to the 
WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective 1 July 
2019 
Panama  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs (from 40%) on 
maize (effective  29 May 2019 to 31 December 2019) 
and (from 72%) on onions (effective  17 July 2019 to 
15 September 2019) (HS 1005.90.20; 0703.10.19)  Permanent Delegation of Panama 
to the WTO (1 October 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates 
in measure  
Temporary reduction of import tariffs (from 81% to 
3%) on tomatoes prepared or preserved otherwise 
than by vinegar or acetic acid, under an import quota 
of 900  metric tonnes (HS 2002.90.12)  Permanent Delegation of Panama 
to the WTO (1 October 2019)  Effective  
6 September 
2019 to 31 
December 2019  
Philippines  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (207 tariff lines at 8 -digit level in HS Chapters 
32; 35; 37; 39; 49; 84; 85; 88; 90; 95)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Philippines to the WTO (21 May 
2019)  Effective  
1 January 2019  
Russian Federation (for Eurasian Economic Union)  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs (from 5%) on 
aromatic ethers and their halogenated, sulphonated, 
nitrated or nitrosated derivatives; monobutyl ethers of 
ethylene glycol or of diethylene glycol; cyclic polymers 
of aldehydes ; certain aromatic monoamines and their 
derivatives; organic derivatives of hydrazine or of 
hydroxylamine; organo -sulphur compounds; and 
sulphonamides, for the production of plant protection 
chemicals (effective 22 October 2018 to 31 December 
2020); (from 3%) on quaternary ammonium salts and 
hydroxides; and lecithins and other 
phosphoaminolipids, whether or not chemically 
defined, for the production of plant protection 
chemicals (effective  22 October 2018 to 31 December 
2020); (from 8%) on electrodes of a k ind used for 
furnaces (effective 23 December 2018 to 
31 December 2019); (from 5%) on latex for the 
manufacture of carpets (effective 23 December 2018 
to 31 December 2021); (from 6.5%) on plastics for 
the manufacture of wallpapers (effective 20 December 
2018 to 31 December 2020); (from 8%) on fertilized 
fish eggs (effective  13 January 2019 to 28 February 
2022); (from 5%) on new rubber pneumatic tyres for 
bicycles; and certain parts and accessories for bicycles 
(effective  27 January 2019 to 31 August 2020); ( from 
10%) on rubber inner tubes of a kind used on bicycles 
(effective  27 January 2019 to 31 August 2020); (from 
15%) on iron or steel roller chain for the manufacture Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian Federation to the WTO (27 
May 2019)  Effective: see  
individual dates 
in measure  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 142 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
of bicycles (effective 27 January 2019 to 31 August 
2020); (from 10%) on certain fish and  crustaceans 
(effective 28 February 2019 to 28 February 2022); 
(from 5%) on certain polypropylene yarn, multiple 
(folded) or cabled for the manufacture of carpets 
(effective 23 March 2019 to  29 February 2020); on 
certain electrodes (effective 24 April 2019  to 30 April 
2020); and on prepared binders for foundry moulds or 
cores; chemical products and preparations of the 
chemical or allied industries (including those 
consisting of mixtures of natural products) (effective  
18 November 2018 to  31 December 2020). 
Temporary reduction (from 12.5% to 5%) of import 
tariffs on certain electrodes (effective  24 April 2019 to 
30 April 2020) (HS  2909.30.90; 2909.43.00; 
2912.50.00; 2921.49.00; 2928.00.90; 2930.90.95; 
2935.90.90; 2923.90.00; 8545.11.00; 4002.11.00; 
4011.50.00 ; 8714.93.00; 8714.94.20; 8714.96.00; 
8714.96.10; 8714.99.50; 8714.99.90; 4013.20.00; 
7315.11.10; 0301.91.90; 0301.99.11; 5402.63.00; 
8545.19.00; 8545.90.90; 3824.99.93)  
Extension of the temporary elimination of import 
tariffs on engines of a kind used for the propulsion of 
certain vehicles (HS  8408.20.99) (effective  
9 November 2018 to 30 September 2019), and on 
ground natural calcium phosphates, natural 
aluminium calcium phosphates and phosphatic chalk 
(HS 2510.20.00) (effective 13 January 2019 to 
4 January 2021)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian Federation to the WTO  
(27 May 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates 
in measure  
Extensio n of the temporary elimination of export 
duties on certain types of wheat (HS 1001.99.00)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian  Federation to the WTO  
(25 October 2019)  Effective  
29 June 2019 to  
1 July 2021  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on certain 
products, e.g. (from 5%) on high tenacity yarn of 
nylon or other polyamides, whether or not textured, 
of aramids (effective 4 July 2019 to  31 July 2022); 
aniline and its salts (effective 4 July 2019 to 30 June 
2022); (from 7.5%) on non -coniferous chemical wood 
pulp, semi -bleached or bleached (effective 14 July 
2019 to 31 May 2022) (HS 5402.19.00; 2921.41.00; 
4703.29.00)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian  Federation to the WTO  
(25 October 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates 
in measure  
Reduction of import  tariffs on motor cars and other 
motor vehicles principally designed for the transport 
of persons (other than those of heading HS 8702), 
including station wagons and racing cars (HS 8703); 
and (from 11.4% to 10%; from 15.7% to 15% and 
from 13.6% to 12.5%) on certain aircraft (for 
example helicopters, aeroplanes); spacecraft 
(including satellites) and suborbital and spacecraft 
launch vehicles (HS 8802)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian  Federation to the WTO  
(25 October 2019)  Effective  
1 September 
2019 
South Africa (for SACU – Southern African Customs Union  
Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, and South Africa)  
Elimination of import tariffs on distributors and 
ignition coils for use solely or principally with motor 
vehicle engines (HS  8511.30.30)  Perma nent Delegation of South 
Africa to the WTO (25 October 
2019) and International Trade 
Administration Commission Notice 
No. R. 985 – Government Gazette 
No. 42577  (12 July 2019)  Effective 12 July 
2019 
Chinese Taipei  
Further reduction of import tariffs under  the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (124 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
32; 35; 37; 39; 59; 84; 85; 90)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.22,  
28 January 2016  Effective 1 July 
2019 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 143 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Reduction of import tariffs on certain fish and 
crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic 
invertebrates; (from 16% to 12%) on yams; (from 
30% to 15%) on satsumas; (from 20% to 10%) on 
evaporated or sterilized cream; (from 30% to 22.5%) 
on fermented soy and rice mixtures (miso); (from 
12.5% to 6.3%) on mayonnaise and salad dressing; 
(from 15% to 7.5%) on curry sauce; (from 10% to 
5%) on meat soups; and (from 40% to 20%) on 
fermented cereal beverages (HS  0303.89.60; 
0306.14.21; 0307.21.00; 0307.22.00; 0307.29.20; 
0307.43.10; 0307.52.00; 0714 .30.20; 0805.21.10; 
1901.90.24; 2008.99.93; 2103.90.10; 2103.90.20; 
2104.10.21; 2206.00.10)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Separate Customs Territory of 
Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and 
Matsu to the WTO  
(29 October 2019)  Effective  
26 July 2019  
Thailand  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (176 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
35; 37; 39; 59; 68; 84; 85; 90; 95)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.23,  
28 January 2016  Effective  
1 July 20 19 
Turkey  
Elimination of import tariffs (from 4%) on sesamum 
seeds for sowing (effective  31 October 2018); (from 
10%) on raw sesamum seeds (effective  31 October 
2018); and (from 20%) on cocoa shells, husks, skins 
and other cocoa waste (effective 1 Januar y 2019). 
Reduction of import tariffs (from 23.4% to 10%) on 
hulled sesamum seeds (effective 31 October 2018); 
and (from 29.8% to 15%) on sunglasses (effective  
7 December 2018) (HS 1207.40.10; 1207.40.90; 
1802.00.00; 9003.90.00)  Permanent Delegation of Turk ey to 
the WTO (24 May 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates 
in measure  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs (from 49.5%) 
on onions (HS 0703.10.19) (originally effective from 
15 January 2019 to 31 March 2019). On 7 April 2019, 
the elimination of import tariffs was extended until 30 
April 2019  Permanent Delegation of Turkey to 
the WTO (24 May 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates 
in measure  
United States of America  
Canada exempted from the additional 25% 
ad valorem  rate of duty on certain steel articles (HS 
Chapters 72 and 73) for national security reasons 
(originally implemented on 23 March 2018)  Presidential Proclamation on 
adjusting imports of steel into the 
United States (19 May 2019). 
Viewed at: 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presi
dential -actions/proclamation -
adjusting -imports -steel-united -
states -2/ Effective  
17 May 2019  
Canada exempted from the additional 10% 
ad valorem  rate of duty on certain aluminium articles 
(e.g. unwrought aluminium; aluminium bars, rods, 
and profiles; aluminium wire; aluminium plate, sheet, 
strip, and foil (flat -rolled products) (HS Chapter 76); 
aluminium tubes and pipe fittings; and aluminium 
castings and forgings) for national security reasons 
(originally implemented on 23 Ma rch 2018)  Presidential Proclamation on 
adjusting imports of steel into the 
United States (19 May 2019). 
Viewed at: 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presi
dential -actions/proclamation -
adjusting -imports -steel-united -
states -2/ Effective  
17 May 2019  
Mexico exempted from the additional 25% ad valorem  
rate of duty on certain steel articles (HS Chapters 72 
and 73) for national security reasons (originally 
implemented on 23 March 2018)  Presidential Proclamation on 
adjusting imports of steel into the 
United States (19 May 2019). 
Viewed at: 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presi
dential -actions/proclamation -
adjusting -imports -steel-united -
states -2/ Effective  
17 May 2019  
Mexico exempted from the additional 10% ad valorem  
rate of duty on certain aluminium articles (e .g. 
unwrought aluminium; aluminium bars, rods, and 
profiles; aluminium wire; aluminium plate, sheet, 
strip, and foil (flat -rolled products) (HS Chapter 76); 
aluminium tubes and pipe fittings; and aluminium 
castings and forgings) for national security reaso ns 
(originally implemented on 23 March 2018)  Presidential Proclamation on 
adjusting imports of steel into the 
United States (19 May 2019). 
Viewed at: 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presi
dential -actions/proclamation -
adjusting -imports -steel-united -
states -2/ Effective 
17 May 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 144 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) (92 tariff lines at 8 -digit level, in HS Chapters 
32; 35; 37; 39; 85; 90; 94)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.24,  
28 January 2016  Effective 1 July 
2019 
 
 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 145 - 
 
  ANNEX 2  
TRADE REMEDIES1 
(MID-OCTOBER 2018 TO MID -OCTOBER  2019) 
Confirmed information2 
Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Argentina  
Termination on 24 October 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of poly(ethylene terephthalate) 
granules "PET" (NCM 3907.60.00) from Chinese 
Taipei and Thailand (investigation initiated on  
25 April 2012 and definitive duty imposed on 25 
October 2013)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/ARG, 18 March 
2019  
Initiation on 7 December 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of fibreboard of wood 
obtained through the wet production process, of a 
density of 0.8  g/cm³ or more, but less than 
1.2 g/cm³, not surface covered (NCM 4411.92.10; 
4411.92.90; 4411.93.10; 4411.93.90) f rom Brazil  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/ARG/Corr.1,  
30 September 2019; Permanent 
Delegation of Argentina to the 
WTO (25  October  2019) and 
Resolución No. 103/2019, 
Ministerio de Producción y 
Trabajo, Secretaría de Comercio 
(23 August 2019)  Terminated on  
27 August 2019 
(without measure)  
Initiation on 19 December 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of steel wheels of a kind 
used on buses, lorries, trailers or semi -trailers (NCM 
8708.70.90; 8708.99; 8716.90.90) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/ARG, 18 March 
2019; and Resolución 
No. 597/2019 Ministerio de 
Producción y Trabajo (23 July 
2019)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
24 July 2019  
Initiation on 26 February 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of mixtures containing 
perfluorocarbons (PFCs) or hydrofluorocarbons 
(HFCs), but not containing chlorofluorocarbons 
(CFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) 
(NCM  3824.78.10; 3824.78.90) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 30 
September 2019   
Initiation on 26 February 2019  of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of aluminium sheets of a 
thickness exceeding 0.2  mm (NCM 7606.91.00; 
7606.92.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 30 
September 2019; and Resolución 
No. 930/2019 Ministerio de 
Producción y Trabajo, Secretarí a 
de Comercio Exterior  
(13 September 2019)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
16 September 
2019 
Initiation on 9 March 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain aluminium foil 
(NCM 7607.11.90) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 30 
September 2019   
Initiation on 18 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of mechanical appliances 
(whether or not hand -operated) for projecting, 
dispersing or spraying liquids or powders; fire 
extinguishers, whether or not charged; spray guns 
and similar appliances; and steam or sand blasting 
machines and similar jet projecting machines (NCM 
8424.89.90; 8479.89.99) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 30 
September 2019   
Termination on 23 April 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of vacuum 
cleaners (NCM 8508.11.00; 8508.19.00) from China 
(initiated on 7 November 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 
30 September 2019   
 
1 The inclusion of any measure in this Annex  implies no  judgement by the WTO Secretariat on whether a  
measure, or its intent, is protectionist in nature. Moreover, nothing in the Annex  implies any judgement, either 
direct or indirect, on the consistency of any measure with the provisions of any WTO agreement.  
2 This Section  includes information which has either been provid ed by the Member concerned or has been 
confirmed at the request of the Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 146 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 24 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of poly(ethylene 
terephthalate) having a viscosity number of 78 ml/g 
or higher (NCM 3907.61.00) from Oman  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 
30 September 2019   
Initiation on 27 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of machines and apparatus 
for arc (including plasma arc) welding of metals 
(NCM 8515.31.90; 8515.39.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 
30 September 2019; and 
Resolución No. 1106/2019 
Ministerio de Producción y 
Trabajo  (24 October 2019)  Provisional d uty 
imposed on  
25 October 2019  
Initiation on 8 May 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of tubes of aluminium (NCM 
7608.10.00; 7608.20.90) from Brazil and China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 
30 September 2019   
Termination on 3 June 2019 of anti-dumping duties 
on imports of sections of polymers of vinyl chloride 
of a kind used in the manufacture of apertures or 
enclosures (NCM 3916.20.00) from Germany 
(investigation initiated on  4 December 2012 and 
definitive duty imposed on  3 June 2014)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 
30 September 2019   
Termination on 12 June 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of voltage 
isolators (NCM 8535.30.17; 8535.30.18; 
8535.30.19; 8535.30.27; 8535.30.28; 8535.30.29) 
from Italy (initiated on 14 June 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 
30 September 2019   
Initiation on 13 June 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain electric ovens 
(NCM 8516.60.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 
30 September 2019   
Initiation on 22 June 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain electric motors 
(NCM 8501.10.29; 8501.10.30; 8501.20.00; 
8501.40.19) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ARG, 
30 September 2019   
Initiation on 29 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on impo rts of winches and capstans 
powered by electric motors (NCM  8425.31.10) from 
Turkey  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(25 October  2019) and 
Resolución No. 90/2019, 
Ministerio de Producción y 
Trabajo, Secretaría de Comercio 
Exterior (25 July 2019)   
Initiation on 6 August 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of gloves impregnated, 
coated or covered with plastic or rubber (NCM 
6116.10.00) from Bangladesh, China, India, Malaysia 
and Sri  Lanka  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(25 October  2019) and 
Resolución No. 97/2019, 
Ministerio de Producción y 
Trabajo, Secretaría de Comercio 
Exterior  
(5 August 2019)   
Termination on 16 August 2019 (without measure) 
of anti -dumping investigation on imports of denim 
fabrics (NCM 5208.43.00; 5209.42.10; 5209.42.90; 
5209.49.00; 5210.49.10; 5211.42.10; 5211.42.90; 
5211.49.00) from Brazil and Peru (initiated on 22 
February 2018)  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(25 October  2019) and 
Resolución No. 661/2019, 
Ministerio de P roducción y 
Trabajo  (15 August 2019)   
Initiation on 17 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of tricycles without electric 
motors (NCM  9503.00.10) from China  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(25 October  2019) and 
Resolución No. 115/2019, 
Ministerio de Producción y 
Trabajo, Secretaría de Comercio 
Exterior (13 September 2019)   
Australia  
Initiation on 16 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of steel reinforcing bar (HS 
7213.10.00; 7214.20.00; 7227.90.10; 7227.90.90; 
7228.30.10; 7228.30.90; 7228.60.10) from Turkey 
(provisional duty imposed on  15 January 2019)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/AUS,  
27 September 2019  Terminated on  
20 June 2019  
Initiation on 16 November 2018 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of steel reinforcing bar (HS 
7213.10.00; 7214.20.00; 7227.90.10; 7227.90.90; 
7228.30.10; 7228.30.90; 7228.60.10) from Turkey  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/AUS, 
21 October  2019 Terminated on  
20 June 2019 
(without measure)  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 147 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Termination on 22 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of aluminium road wheels (ARWs) 
for passenger motor vehicles, including wheels used 
for caravans and trailers, in diameters ranging from 
13 to 22 inches (HS  8708.70.91; 8708.70.99; 
8716.90. 00) from China (investigation initiated on 7 
November 2011. Provisional and definitive duties 
imposed on 31 May and 5 July 2012, respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/AUS, 15  April 2019   
Termination on 22 November 2018 of countervailing 
duties on imports  of aluminium road wheels (ARWs) 
for passenger motor vehicles, including wheels used 
for caravans and trailers, in diameters ranging from 
13 to 22 inches (HS  8708.70.91; 8708.70.99; 
8716.90.00) from China (investigation initiated on 7 
November 2011. Provis ional and definitive duties 
imposed on 31 May and 5 July 2012, respectively)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/342/AUS, 
14 March  2019  
Termination on 19 December 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of hot -rolled plate steel (HS 
7208.40.00; 7208.51.00; 7208.52.00; 7225.40.00) 
from China; Indonesia; Japan; and Korea, Rep. of 
(investigation initiated on 12 February 2013. 
Provisional and definitive duties imposed on 19 July 
and 19 December 2013, respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/AUS, 15  April 2019   
Termination on 19 December 2018 of countervailing 
duties on imports of hot -rolled plate steel (HS 
7208.40.00; 7208.51.00; 7208.52.00; 7225.40.00) 
from China (investigation initiated on 12  February 
2013 and definitive duty imposed on 19 December 
2013)  WTO d ocument 
G/SCM/N/342/AUS, 
14 March  2019  
Termination on 14 January 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of processed dried currants (HS 
0806.20) from Greece (imposed on 14 January 
2009)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/AUS, 27  September 
2019  
Termination on 24 January 2019 (without measure) 
of countervailing investigation on imports of railway 
wheels (HS 8607.19.00) from China (initiated on 18 
April 2018)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/AUS, 
21 October  2019  
Initiation on 26 February 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of solid base angles (HS 
7216.61.00; 7228.70.00; 7308.30.00; 7308.90.00) 
from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/AUS, 27  September 
2019 Terminated on  
17 June 2019 
(withdrawal of 
application)  
Termination on 15 March 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of A4 copy 
paper (HS 4802.56.10) from Austria (initiated on 19 
March 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/AUS, 27  September 
2019  
Initiation on 18 March 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of power transformers (HS 
8504.22.00; 8504.23.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/AUS, 27  September 
2019  
Termination on 18 March 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of alloy round 
steel bars (HS  7228.20.10; 7228.20.90; 
7228.30.10; 7228.30.90; 7228.60.10; 7228.60.90) 
from China (investigation initiated on  10 January 
2017, terminated on  25 January 2018, and resumed 
on 2 May 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/AUS, 27  September 
2019  
Initiation on 24 June 2019 of anti-dumping 
investigation on imports of hot dip galvanized steel 
angle (HS 7216.61.00; 7228.70.00; 7308.30.00; 
7308.90.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/AUS, 27  September 
2019  
Initiation on 24 June 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of high density polyethylene 
"HDPE" (HS 3901.20.00; 3901.90.00) from Korea, 
Rep. of; Singapore; Thailand and the United States  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/AUS, 27  September 
2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 148 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Termination on 3 October 2019 (following a 
revocation review) of anti-dumping investigation on 
imports of prepared or preserved tomato products 
(HS 2002.10.00) from Italy (exporter Feger di 
Gerardo Ferraioli S.p.A) (investigation initiated on 10 
July 2013. Provisional and definitive duties imposed 
on 1 November 2013 and  16 April 2014, 
respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/AUS, 27  September 
2019; and Permanent Delegation 
of Australia to the WTO 
(25 October 2019)  Terminated on  
16 April 2019 for 
all exporters other 
than Feger di 
Gerardo Ferraioli 
S.p.A. and La 
Doria S.p.A  
Brazil  
Termination on 19 December 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of basic refractories (NCM 
6902.10.18; 6902.10.19) from China and Mexico 
(investigation initiated on 2 July 2012 and definitive 
duty imposed on 19 December 2013)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/BRA, 
15 March  2019  
Termination on 27 December 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of reduced indigo blue (NCM 
3204.15.90) from China and Singapore 
(investigation initiated on 30  October 2012 and 
definitive duty imposed on 27 Decem ber 2013)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/BRA, 
15 March  2019  
Termination on 27 December 2018 of antidumping 
duties on imports of reduced indigo blue (NCM 
3204.15.90) from Germany (imposed on 24 March 
2008)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/BRA, 
15 March  2019  
Termination on 27 December 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of nylon yarns (NCM 5402.31.11; 
5402.31.19; 5402.45.20) from Thailand 
(investigation initiated on 9 July 2012. Provisional 
and definitive duties imposed on  16 September 2013 
and 27 December 2013, respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/BRA, 
29 October  2019  
On 19 January 2019, extension of the temporary 
suspension of anti -dumping duties on imports of hot -
rolled steel (NCM 7208.10.00; 7208.25.00; 
7208.26.10; 7208.26.90; 7208.27.10; 7208.27.90; 
7208.36.10; 7208.36.90; 7208.37.00; 7208.38.10; 
7208.38.90; 7208.39.10; 7208.39.90; 7208.40.00; 
7208.53.00; 7208.54.00; 7208.90.00; 7225.30.00; 
7225.40.90) from China and the Russian Federation 
(investigation  initiated on 20  July 2016. Definitive 
duty imposed on  19 January 2018 but suspended for 
one year)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019) and 
Camex Resolution No. 97/2018  
(7 December 2018)   
Termination on 6 February 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of milk (NCM 0402) from the 
European Union and New Zealand (imposed on 23 
February 2001)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/BRA, 
29 October  2019  
Termination on 24 April 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of precipitated silicon dioxid e (NCM 
2811.22.10) from China (investigation initiated on 
26 October 2012 and definitive duty imposed on 24 
April 2014)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/BRA, 
29 October  2019  
Termination on 1 July 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of rolls for 
rolling mills (NCM 8455.30.10; 8455.30.90) from 
China (investigation initiated on 26 March 2018)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (12 October 2019)   
On 12 July 2019 temporary suspension of anti -
dumping duties on imports of unrefined salt " sal 
grosso " (NCM  2501.00.19) from Chile (investigation 
initiated on  12 March 2010 and definitive duty 
imposed on 8 September 2011)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (12 October 2019)   
Termination on 25 July 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of seamed tubes of austenitic stainless 
steel of circular section, with an outside diameter of 
6 mm (1/4 inch) or more but less than 2,032 mm 
(80 inches), with a thickness of 0.40 mm or more 
and less than or equal to 12.70 mm (NCM  
7306.40.00; 7306.90.20) from Chinese Taipei 
(investigation initiated on 7  March 2012 and 
definitive duty imposed on 29 July 2013)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (12 October 2019)   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 149 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 16  August  2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of pencils and crayons, with 
leads encased in a rigid sheath (NCM 9609.10.00) 
from China  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (12 October 2019) and 
Secint  Circular No. 51/2019  
(15 August 2019)   
Termination on 20 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of graphite electrodes 
(NCM  8545.11.00; 3801.10.00) from China (imposed 
on 9 April 2009. Measure temporary suspended on  
20 September 2018)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (12 October 2019) and 
Secint Portaria No. 2815  
(19 September 2019)   
Termination on 2 October 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of cold flat -rolled products of 
stainless steel of a width of 600 mm or more, of a 
thickness exceeding 0.35 mm but less than 4.75  mm 
(grades 304, 304L and 430) (NCM 7219.32.00; 
7219.33.00; 7219.34.00; 7219.35.00; 7220.20.90) 
from Finland; Germany; Korea, Rep. of and Viet Nam 
(investigation initiated on 13 April 2012 and 
definitive duty imposed on 4 October 2013)  Secex Circular No. 58/2019  
(1 October  2019)   
Canada  
Termination on 18 April 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of nitisinone capsules (HS 3003.90.00; 
3004.90.00) from Sweden (investigation initiated on 
21 September 2018 and provisional duty imposed on  
20 December 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/CAN, 
27 September 2019   
Initiation on 30 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain sucker rods (HS 
8413.91.00) from Argentina, Brazil and Mexico  Permanent Delegation of Canada 
to the WTO (28 October 2019) 
and Canada Border Services 
Agency – Notice of Initiation of 
Investigation: SR2 2019 IN 
(30 September 2019)   
Chile  
Termination on 23 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of steel bars used for the 
production of conventional mill balls for grinding 
minerals, of a diameter of less than 3.5 inches 
(HS 7228.30.00) from China (investigation initiated 
on 31 January 2017 and definitive duty imposed on 
22 November 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/CHL, 18 April 2019   
Termination on 23 January 2019 (without measure) 
of safeguard investigation on imports of powdered 
milk and Gouda cheese (HS 0402; 0406) (initiated 
on 8 March  2018)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/9/CHL/12,  
25 January 2019   
Termination on 2 May 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of steel 
concrete reinforcing bars (HS 7213.10.00; 
7214.20.00; 7227.90.00; 7228.30.00) from Mexico 
(investigation initiated on 8 March 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/CHL, 10 July 2019   
China  
Initiation on 16 October 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of vertical machining 
centres (HS 8457.10.10) from Japan and Chinese 
Taipei  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/CHN, 12 April 2019   
Termination on 1 November 2018 of anti-dumping 
duties on imports of solar -grade polysilicon (HS 
2804.61.90) from the European Union (investigation 
initiated on 1 November 2012 and definitive duty 
imposed on 30 April 2014)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/CHN, 12 April 2019   
Termination on 1 November 2018 of countervailing 
duties on imports of solar -grade polysilicon (HS 
2804.61.90) from the European Union (investigation 
initiated on 1 November 2012 and definitive duty 
imposed on 30 April 2014)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/342/CHN, 9  April 2019  
Initiation on 19 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of barley (HS 1003.10.00; 
1003.90.00) from Australia  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/CHN, 12 April 2019   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 150 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 26 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of 7 -phenylacetamido -3-
chloromethyl -3-cephem -4-carboxylic 
acidpmethoxybenzyl ester (HS 2934.99.60) from 
India WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/CHN, 12 April 2019   
Initiation on 26 November 2018 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of 7 -phenylacetamido -3-
chlorome thyl-3-cephem -4-carboxylic 
acidpmethoxybenzyl ester (HS 2934.99.60) from 
India WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/CHN, 
23 October  2019  
Initiation on 21 December 2018 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of barley (HS 1003.10.00; 
1003.90.00) from Australia  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/CHN, 
23 October  2019  
Termination on 4 April 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of cellulose pulp native products (HS 
4702.00.00; 4706.10.00; 4706.30.00) from Brazil, 
Canada, and the United States (investigation 
initiated on 6 February 2013. Provisional and 
definitive duties imposed on 6 November 2013 and 4 
April 2014, respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/CHN, 23 October 
2019  
Initiation on 10 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of methionine 
(HS 2930.40.00) from Japan, Malaysia and 
Singapore  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/CHN, 23 October 
2019  
Initiation on 30 May 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of polyphenylene sulphide 
"PPS" (HS 3911.90.00) from Japan; Korea, Rep. of; 
Malaysia and the United States  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/CHN, 23 October 
2019  
Initiation on 19 June 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of ethylene -propylene -non-
conjugated diene rubber or ethylene -propylene diene 
monomer "EPDM" (HS 4002.70.10; 4002.70.90) 
from the European Union; Korea, Rep. of and the 
United States  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/CHN, 23 October 
2019  
Initiation on 23 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of propan -1-ol (propyl 
alcohol) and propan -2-ol (isopropyl alcohol) (HS 
2905.12.10) from the United States  Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
MOFCOM Announcement 
No. 32/2019 (23 July 2019)   
Initiation on 29 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of cresols and their salts 
(HS 2907.12.11) from the European Union, Japan 
and the United States  Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
MOFCOM Announcement 
No. 33/2019 (29 July 2019)   
Initiation on 29 July 2019 of countervai ling 
investigation on imports of propan -1-ol (propyl 
alcohol) and propan -2-ol (isopropyl alcohol) (HS 
2905.12.10) from the United  States  Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
MOFCOM Announcement 
No. 35/2019 (30 July 2019)   
Termination on 29 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of polyvinyl chloride (HS 
3904.10.00) from Japan; Korea, Rep. of; Chinese 
Taipei and the United States (imposed on  
29 September 2003)  Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WTO (25 October 20 19)  
Colombia  
Termination on 19 October 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of hoes, digging bars and picks 
(HS 8201.30.00) from China (imposed on 29 July 
2009)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/COL, 12  April 2019  
Termination on 1 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of link chain, polished or 
galvanized (HS  7315.82.00) from China (imposed on  
20 April 2007)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/COL, 12  April 2019  
Termination on 30 November 2018 (without 
measure) of anti -dumping investigation on imports 
of paper and paperboard coated, impregnated or 
covered with plastics "tetra brick aseptic" (HS 
4811.59.20) from Brazil (initiated on 10 August 
2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/COL, 12  April 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 151 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 28 January 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of ethyl alcohol ( etanol ) (HS 
2207.20.00) from the United States  Resolucion Nos. 6/2019 and 
85/2019 – Ministerio de 
Comercio, Industria y Turismo 
(3 May 2019)  Provisional duty 
imposed on 8 May 
2019 
Termination on 28 February 2019 (without measure) 
of anti -dumping investigation on imports of citric 
acid (HS 2918.14.00) from China (investigation 
initiated on  13 March 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/COL, 
23 October  2019  
Termination on 5 April 2019 of anti-dumping duties 
on imports of welded carbon steel tubes and pipes 
(HS 7306.30.10; 7306.30.92; 7306.30.99; 
7306.50.00; 7306.61.00; 7306.69.00; 7306.90.00) 
from China (investigation initiated on 26 April 2018 
and provisional duty imposed on 30 July 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/COL, 
23 October  2019  
Initiation on 11 April 2019 of safeguard investigation 
on imports of sheets of paperboard and 
polyethylene, with an intermediate layer of 
aluminium foil as an oxygen barrier, used for the 
aseptic packaging of UHT treated foodstuffs 
(HS 4811.59.20)  WTO document G/SG/N/6/COL/8,  
16 April 2019   
Costa Rica  
Termination on 28 January 2019 (without measure) 
of safeguard investigation on imports of bars and 
rods of steel for concrete reinforcement (HS 
7214.20.00; 7214.99.20; 7228.30.00; 7228.50.00; 
7228.60.00) (initiated on 29 March 2018)  Permanent Delegation of Costa 
Rica to the WTO (23  April 2019)   
Initiation on 30 June 2019 of safeguard investigation 
on imports of sugar in solid fo rm, granulated, known 
as white sugar (HS 1701.99.00)  WTO document G/SG/N/6/CRI/5,  
9 July 2019   
Dominican Republic  
Termination on 30 July 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of steel rods and bars for concrete 
reinforcement (HS  7214.10.00; 7214.20.00; 
7214.30.00; 7214.99.00) from Spain (investigation 
initiated on 18 November 2013. Provisional and 
definitive duties imposed on 19 March and 30 July 
2014, respectively)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Dominican Republic to the WTO  
(3 October 2019)   
Egypt  
Initiation on 31 March  2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of semi -finished products of 
iron or non -alloy steel and steel rebars (bars, rods 
and coils) for construction purposes (HS 7207; 7213; 
7214)  WTO documents 
G/SG/N/6/EGY/14, 2 A pril 2019 
and G/SG/N/8/EGY/9,  
11 October 2019  Definitive duty 
imposed on 
12 October 2019  
Initiation on 24 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of sodium naphthalene 
sulfonate (SNF) (HS  3824.40) from China and the 
Russian Federation  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/EGY,  
27 September 2019   
El Salvador  
Termination on 17 May 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of liquid ultra -
high-temperature (UHT) processed milk in long -life 
containers (HS 0401.10.00; 0401.20.00) from Costa 
Rica (investigation initiated on 16  November 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/SLV,  
21 October 2019   
European Union  
Termination on 19 October 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of biodiesel (fatty -acid mono -alkyl 
esters and/or paraffinic gasoils obtained from 
synthesis and/or hydro -treatment, of non -fossil 
origin, in pure form or included in a blend) (HS 
1516.20.98; 1518.00.91; 1518.00.95; 1518.00.99; 
2710.19.43; 2710.19.46; 2710.19.47; 2710.20.11; 
2710. 20.15; 2710.20.17; 3824.90.97; 3826.00.10; 
3826.00.90) from Argentina and Indonesia 
(investigation initiated on 29 August 2012. 
Provisional and definitive duties imposed on 28 May 
and 26 November 2013, respectively)  Commission Implementing 
Regulation No. 2 018/1570  
(18 October 2018)   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 152 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Termination on 9 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of stainless steel wires "SSW" (HS 
7223.00.19; 7223.00.99) from India (investigation 
initiated on 10 August 2012. Provisional and 
definitive duties imposed on 8 May and 8  November 
2013, respectively)  Commission Notice 2018/C 
402/06 (8 November 2018)   
Initiation on 6 December 2018 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of biodiesel (HS 
1516.20.98; 1518.00.91; 1518.00.95; 1518.00.99; 
2710.19.43; 2710.19.46; 2710.19.47; 2710.20.11; 
2710.20.15; 2710.20.17; 3824.99.92; 3826.00.10; 
3826.00.90) from Indonesia  WTO document G/SCM/N/342/EU, 
16 April 2019; and Commission 
Implementing Regulation 
No. 2019/1344 (12 August 2019)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
13 August 2019  
Initiation on 15 February 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of steel road wheels (HS 
8708.70.10; 8708.70.99; 8716.90.90) from China  WTO document G/ADP/N/328/EU, 
17 October 2019; and 
Commission Implementing 
Regulation No.  2019/16 93 (9 
October 2019)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
10 October 2019  
Termination on 14 February 2019 (without measure) 
of anti -dumping investigation on imports of solar 
glass (HS 7007.19.80) from Malaysia (initiated on 23 
May 2018)  WTO document G/ADP/N/328/EU,  
17 October 2019   
Initiation on 21 February 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain woven and/or 
stitched glass fibre fabrics (HS 7019.39.00; 
7019.40.00; 7019.59.00; 7019.90.00) from China 
and Egypt  WTO document G/ADP/N/328/EU, 
17 October 2019   
Termination on 1 March 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of electrolytic manganese dioxides (i.e. 
manganese dioxides produced through an electrolytic 
process) not heat -treated after the electrolytic 
process (HS 2820.10.00) from South Africa (imposed 
on 13 March 2008)  WTO document G/ADP/N/328/EU, 
17 October 2019   
Termination on 10 April 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of tube and pipe fittings (other than cast 
fittings, flanges and threaded fittings), of iron or 
steel (not including stainless steel), with a greatest 
external diameter not exceeding 609.6  mm, of a 
kind used for butt -welding or other purposes (HS 
7307.93.11; 7307.93.19; 7307.99.30; 7307.99.90) 
from Turkey (investigation initiate d on 1 November 
2011. Provisional and definitive duties imposed on 
31 July 2012 and 29  January 2013, respectively)  WTO document G/ADP/N/328/EU, 
17 October 2019   
Initiation on 3 May 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of continuous filament glass  
fibre products – glass fibre reinforcements (GFR) (HS 
7019.11.00; 7019.12.00; 7019.31.00) from Bahrain 
and Egypt  WTO document G/ADP/N/328/EU, 
17 October 2019   
Termination on 15 May 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of bioethanol, sometimes referred to as 
"fuel ethanol", i.e. ethyl alcohol produced from 
agricultural products, denatured or undenatured, 
excluding products with a water content of more 
than 0.3% (m/m) measured according to the EN 
15376 standard, as well as ethyl alcohol produced 
from agricultural products contained in blends with 
gasoline, with an ethyl alcohol content of more than 
10% (v/v) (HS  2207.10.00; 2207.20.00; 
2208.90.99; 2710.11.11; 2710.11.15; 2710.11.21; 
2710.11.25; 2710.11.31; 2710.11.41; 2710.11.45; 
2710.11.49; 2710. 11.51; 2710.11.59; 2710.11.70; 
2710.11.90; 3814.00.10; 3814.00.90; 3820.00.00; 
3824.90.97) from the United States (investigation 
initiated on 25 November 2011 and definitive duty 
imposed on 22  February 2013)  WTO document G/ADP/N/328/EU, 
17 October 2019   
Initiation on 16 May 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of glass fibre fabrics (HS 
7019.39.00; 7019.40.00; 7019.59.00; 7019.90.00) 
from China and Egypt  WTO document G/SCM/N/349/EU, 
16 October 2019   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 153 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 7 June 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of continuous filament glass 
fibre (HS 7019.11.00; 7019.12.00; 7019.31.00) 
from Egypt  WTO document G/SCM/N/349/EU, 
16 October 2019   
Termination on 28 June 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on impo rts of welded 
tubes, pipes and hollow profiles of square or 
rectangular cross -section, of iron other than cast iron 
or steel other than stainless (hollow sections) (HS 
7306.61.92; 7306.61.99) from North Macedonia, the 
Russian Federation and Turkey (investi gation 
initiated on 28  September 2018)  WTO document G/ADP/N/328/EU, 
17 October 2019   
Termination on 5 July 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of hot -rolled 
steel sheet piles (HS  7301.10.00) from China 
(initiated on 24 May 2018)  Commission Implementing 
Decision No. 2019/1146 (4 July 
2019)   
Initiation on 30 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain polyvinyl alcohols 
"PVA" (HS 3905.30.00) from China  Commission Notice 2019/C 
256/03 (30 July 2019)   
Initiation on 12 August 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain hot -rolled 
stainless steel sheets and coils (HS 7219.11; 
7219.12; 7219.13; 7219.14; 7219.22; 7219.23; 
7219.24; 7220.11; 7220.12) from China, Indonesia 
and Chinese Taipei  Commi ssion Notice 2019/C 269 
I/01 (12 August 2019)   
Initiation on 10 October 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain heavyweight 
thermal paper (HS  4809.90.00; 4811.59.00) from 
Korea, Rep. of  Commission Notice 2019/C 
342/08 (10 October 2019)   
Initiation on 10 October 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of certain hot -rolled 
stainless steel sheets and coils (HS 7219.11; 
7219.12; 7219.13; 7219.14; 7219.22; 7219.23; 
7219.24; 7220.11; 7220.12) from China and 
Indonesia  Commission Notice 2019/C 
342/09 (10 October 2019)   
Guatemala  
Initiation on 27 August 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of flat -rolled products of 
other alloy steel, of a width of 600 mm or more (HS 
7225.91.00; 7225.92.00; 7225.99.00)  WTO document G/SG/N/6/GTM/1, 
9 September  2019  
India  
Termination on 20 October 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of methylene chloride 
(dichloromethane or methylene dichloride "MDC") 
(HS 2903.12.00) from Korea, Rep. of (investigation 
initiated on 4  April 2013. Provisional and definitive 
duties imposed on 21 October 2013 and 21 May 
2014, respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/IND, 9  April 2019  
Termination on 23 October 2018 (without measure) 
of anti -dumping investigation on imports of di -
methyl formamide "DMF" (HS  2924.19) from China, 
Germany and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (initiated 
on 22  January 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/IND, 9  April 2019  
Termination on 12 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of vitamin  A palmitate -II (HS 
2936.21) from China and Switzerland (imposed on 
28 March 2007)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/IND, 9  April 2019  
Termination on 25 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of caustic soda (HS 2815.11) from 
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and  the United States 
(imposed on 26 December 2000)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/IND, 9  April 2019  
Termination on 26 December 2018 (without 
measure) of anti -dumping investigation on imports 
of coated paper (HS 4810) from China, the European 
Union and the United States (initiated on 23 January 
2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/IND, 9  April 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 154 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Termination on 30 December 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of phosphoric acid – technical 
grade and food grade (HS  2809.20) from China 
(imposed on 14 September 2007)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/IND, 9  April 2019  
Termination on 15 January 2019 (without measure) 
of anti -dumping investigation on imports of certain 
epoxy resins (epoxide resins) (HS 3907.30.10; 
3907.30.90) from China; the European Union; 
Korea, Rep. of; Chinese Taipei and Thailand 
(initiated on 4  April 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 15 January 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of nonyl phenol (HS 2907.13; 
2907.11.90; 2907.29.90; 3204.17.90;  3810.90.90; 
2921.45.90; 2909.50.90; 3403.19.00; 3402.13.00; 
3402.19.00) from Chinese Taipei (imposed on 22 
August 2007)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 22 January 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of 4, 4 diamini stilbene 2, 2 
disulphonic acid "DASDA" (HS  2921.42.90; 
2921.59.90) from China (investigation initiated on 
26 July 2012 and definitive duty imposed on  
23 January 2014)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 22 January 2019 of anti-dumping 
duties on imports of hexamine -I (HS 2921.29) from 
the Russian Federation and the Kingdom of Saudi 
Arabia (imposed on 28 June 2001)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 5  February 2019 (without measure) 
of countervaili ng investigation on imports of 
fluoroelastomers "FKM" (HS  3904.69.90) from China 
(initiated on 14 August 2018)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/IND,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 12 February 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of peroxosulphates (persulphates) 
(HS 2833.40.00) from China (imposed on 19 March 
2007)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 18 March 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of sodium nitrate (HS 3102.50.00) 
from China; the European Union; Korea, Rep. of and 
Ukraine (investigation initiated on  5 June 2013. 
Provisional and definitive duties imposed on 19 
March 2014 and 10  February 2015, respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 18 March 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of red phosphorus (HS 
2804.70.20) from China (investigation initiated on 
28 September 2012 and definitive duty imposed on 
19 March 2014)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Initiation on 28 March 2019 of anti-dumping 
investigation on imports of chlorinated polyvinyl 
chloride "CPVC" resin, whether or not further 
processed into compounds (HS 3904.90.00; 
3904.21.10; 3904.21.90; 3904.22.10; 3904.22.90) 
from China and Korea, Rep. of  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND , 
28 October  2019; and Notification 
No. 33/2019 -Customs (ADD)  
(26 August 2019)   
Termination on 29 March 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of ethylene 
vinyl acetate (EVA) sheet for solar modules (HS 
3901.30; 3920.10; 3920.62; 3920.99; 3921.90) 
from Korea, Rep. of (initiated on 4 April 2018)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Notification No. 15/2019 -Customs 
(ADD) – Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue) 
(29 March 2019)   
Termination on 1 Ap ril 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of ductile iron pipes (HS 7303.00.30; 
7303.00.90) from China (imposed on 14 September 
2007)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 7/18/2018 -
DGAD – Ministry of Commerce 
and Industry – Directorate 
General of Trade Remedies 
(1 April 2019)   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 155 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 2 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of aluminium and zinc 
coated flat products (HS 7210.61.00; 7212.50.90; 
7225.99.00; 7226.99.90; 7210.12.90; 7210.30.90; 
7210.49.00; 7210.69.00; 7210.70.00; 7210.90.90; 
7212.10.90; 7212.20.90; 7212.30.90; 7212.40.00; 
7216.99.10; 7225.50.10; 7225.91.00; 7225.92.00; 
7226.99.30) from China; Korea, Rep. of and Viet 
Nam WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019; a nd Notification 
No. 40/2019 -Customs (ADD) 
Ministry of Finance  
(15 October 2019)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
15 October 2019  
Termination on 16 April 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of paracetamol (HS 2922.29.33) from 
China (imposed on 6 September 2001)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Notification No. 19/2019 -Customs 
(ADD) – Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue) (16 
April 2019)   
Termination on 16 April 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of soda ash (HS  2836.20) from the 
Russian Federation and Turkey (investigation 
initiated on 10  February 2012 and definitive duty 
imposed on 18 April 2013)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 15 May 2019 of anti -dumping dutie s 
on imports of peroxosulphates (also known as 
persulphates) (HS 2833.40.00) from Chinese Taipei 
and the United States (investigation initiated on 28 
September 2012 and definitive duty imposed on 
16 May 2014)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 15 May 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of phenol (HS 2907.11.10) from Chinese 
Taipei and the United States (investigation initiated 
on 7 May 2013. Provisional and definitive duties 
imposed on 16 May and 30  September 2014, 
respectively ) WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Initiation on 16 May 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of digital offset printing 
plates (HS 8442.50; 3701.30.00; 3704.00.90; 
3705.10.00; 7606.11.90; 7606.91.90; 7606.92.90) 
from China; Japan; Korea, Rep. of; Chinese Taipei 
and Viet Nam  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Initiation on 28 June 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of nylon filament yarn 
(multi filament) (HS 5402.31; 5402.32; 5402.39; 
5402.45; 5402.49; 5402.51; 5402.59; 5402.61; 
5402.69) from China; Korea, Rep. of; Chinese Taipei 
and Thailand  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 8 June 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of presensitized positive offset aluminium 
plates (HS 8442.50.20; 3701.30.00; 3704.00.90; 
3705.10.00; 7606.91.90; 7606.92.90) from China 
(imposed on 25  September 2007)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 12 June 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) suspension 
grade resin (HS 3904) from the European Union and 
Mexico (investigation initiated on 5 October 2012 
and definitive duty imposed on  13 June 2014)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 12 June 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) suspension 
grade (HS 3904) from Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia 
and Chinese Taipei (imposed on  23 January 2008)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  
Initiation on 28 June 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of coated/plated tin mill 
flat-rolled steel products (HS 7210.11.10; 
7210.11.90; 7210.12.10; 7210.12.90; 7210.50.00; 
7210.90.10; 7212.10.10; 7212.10.90; 7212.50.20; 
7212.50.90; 7225.99.00; 7210.90.90; 7210.70.00; 
7210.30.9 0; 7225.50.10; 7212.40.00) from the 
European Union; Japan; Korea, Rep. of and the 
United States  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IND, 
28 October  2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 156 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 3 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of flat -rolled products of 
stainless steel (HS 7219; 7220) from China; the 
European Union; Hong Kong, China; Japan; 
Indonesia; Korea, Rep. of; Malaysia; Mexico; 
Singapore; South  Africa; Chinese Taipei; Thailand; 
United Arab Emirates; the United States and Viet 
Nam Permanent Delegation of Indi a to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 6/12/2019 -
DGTR – (Case No. 10/2019), 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies (3 July 2019)   
Initiation on 9 July 2019 of anti-dumping 
investigation on imports of isononanol (INA) (HS 
2905.19.90) from the European Union and Singapore  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (3 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 14/22/2016 -
DGAD, Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Departmen t of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies (9 July 2019)   
Initiation on 9 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of 2 -propylheptyl alcohol (2 -
PH) (HS 2905.16.90) from the European Union  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (3 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 14/22/2016 -
DGAD, Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies (9 July 2019)   
Initiation on 9 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of 2 -ethyl hexanol (2 -EH) 
(2905.16.20) from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and 
Singapore  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (3 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 14/22/2016 -
DGAD, Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department  of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies (9 July 2019)   
Initiation on 10 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of polystyrene of all types 
except expandable polystyrene (HS 3903.19) from 
Iran, Islamic Rep. of; Malaysia; Singapore; Chinese 
Taipei; United Arab Emirates and the United States  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 6/10/2019 -
DGTR – (Case No. (O.I.) 8/2019), 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies (10 July 2019)   
Initiation on 23 August 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of phenol (HS  2907.11.10)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/IND/45, 
12 September  2019  
Initiation on 23 August 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of clear float glass (HS 
7005.10.90) from Malaysia  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (3 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 6/15/2019 -
DGTR (Case No. OI -11/2019), 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies  
(23 August 2019)   
Initiation on 12 September 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of textured and tempered 
glass, whether coated or uncoated (HS 7007.19.00; 
7003.19.90; 7005.10.10; 7005.10.90; 7005.21.90; 
7005.29.90; 7005.30.90; 7007.19.00) from Malaysia  Notification F. No. 6/13/2019 -
DGTR, Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies 
(12 September 2019)   
Initiation on  18 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of flexible slabstock polyol 
(HS 3907.20) from the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia and 
United Arab Emirates  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 6/20/2019 -
DGTR (Case No. OI -14/2019), 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies 
(18 September 2019)   
Initiation on 23 September 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of single mode optical fibre 
(HS 9001.10.00)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/IND/46,  
30 September 2019   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 157 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 24 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of electronic calculators (HS 
8470.10.00) from Malaysia  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 6/22/2019 -
DGTR (Case No. 15/2019), 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedi es 
(24 September 2019)   
Initiation on 24 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of acrylic fibre (HS 5501.30; 
5503.30; 5506.30) from Belarus, the European 
Union, Peru and Ukraine  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 6/25/2019 -
DGTR (Case No. 18/2019), 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies 
(24 September 2019)   
Initiation on 24 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of faced glass wool in rolls 
(HS 7019.90.10; 7019.90.90; 7019.19.00; 
7019.39.00; 7019.59.00) from China  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 6/23/2019 -
DGTR (Case No. (OI) 16/2019), 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies 
(24 September 2019)   
Initiation on 1 October 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of poly(ethylene 
terephthalate) "PET" resin (HS 3907.61.00; 
3907.69.10; 3907.60.10; 3907.60.20) from China  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 6/24/2019 -
DGTR (Case No. (OI) 17/2019), 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies  
(1 October 2019)   
Initiation on 1 October 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of choline chloride in all 
forms (HS 2309.90.10; 2309.90.20; 2309.90.90; 
2923.10.00) from China, Malaysia and Viet  Nam Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No. 6/18/2019 -
DGTR (Case No. 12/2019), 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Indus try – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies  
(1 October 2019)   
Initiation on 1 October 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of clear float glass (HS 
7005.10.90) from Malaysia  Notification F. No. 6/14/2019 -
DGTR (Case No. CVD 4/2019), 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce – Directorate General 
of Trade Remedies  
(1 October 2019)   
Indonesia  
Termination on 15 February 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of Cavendish bananas (HS 
0803.00.00) from the Philippines (imposed on 28 
September 2006)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/IDN, 
28 October  2019  
Termination on 27 March 2019 of safeguard duties 
on imports of flat -rolled products of iron or non -alloy 
steel, of a width of 600 mm or more, clad, plated or 
coated with aluminium -zinc alloys, containing by 
weight less than 0.6% of carbon, with a thickness 
not exceeding 1.2 mm (HS 7210.61.11) 
(investigation initiated on 19 December 2012 and 
definitive duty imposed on 22  July 2014)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/10/IDN/16/ Suppl.4, 
17 April 2019  
Initiation on 12 June 2019 of safeguard investigation 
on imports of evaporators (HS  8418.99.10)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/IDN/30, 14  June 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 158 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 7 August 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of biaxially oriented 
polypropylene (HS 3920.20.10; 3920.20.91; 
3920.20.99) from China and Malaysia  Permanent Delegation of 
Indonesia to the WTO 
(14 October 2019)   
Initiation on 26 August 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of base metals and articles 
of base metals (HS 7210.61.11; 7212.50.23; 
7212.50.24; 7212.50.29; 7225.99.90; 7226.99.19; 
7226.99.99) from China and Viet Nam  Permanent Delegation of 
Indonesia to the WTO  
(14 October 2019)   
Initiation on 18 September 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of fabrics (HS 5208; 5209; 
52010; 5211; 5212; 5407; 5408; 5512; 5513; 
5514; 5515; 5516; 5804; 5810; 6001; 6004; 6005; 
6006)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/IDN/31, 
20 September  2019  
Initiation on 18 September 2019 of safeguard 
investigatio n on imports of yarn (other than sewing 
thread) of synthetic and artificial staple fibres (HS 
5509.22.00; 5509.32.00; 5509.51.00; 5509.53.00; 
5510.12.00; 5510.90.00)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/IDN/32, 
20 September  2019  
Initiation on 18 September 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of curtains (including 
drapes), interior blinds, bed valances, and other 
furnishing articles (HS 6303.12.00; 6303.19.90; 
6303.91.00; 6303.92.00; 6303.99.00; 6304.19.90; 
6304.91.90; 6304.92.00)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/IDN/33 , 
20 September  2019  
Japan  
Termination on 4 March 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of electrolytic manganese dioxide 
(HS 2820.10) from South Africa and Spain (imposed 
on 1 September 2008)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/JPN, 
22 October  2019  
Initiation on 26 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of tris (chloropropyl) 
phosphate (HS 2919.90) from China  Permanent Delegation of Japan to 
the WTO (7 October 2019)   
Jordan  
Initiation on 1  September  2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of potato chips and potato es 
prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or 
acetic acid, not frozen (HS  2005.20.90; 2106.90.99)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/JOR/19,  
4 September 2019   
Korea, Republic of  
Initiation on 16 October 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of uncoated paper (HS 
4802.56; 4802.57; 4802.62; 4802.69) from Brazil, 
China and Indonesia  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/KOR, 22 October 
2019; and Permanent Delegation 
of the Republic of Korea to the 
WTO (25  October 2019)  Terminated on  
18 July 2019 
(without measure)  
Initiation on 27 March 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of glassine paper (HS 
4806.40) from China, Italy, Japan and Chinese 
Taipei  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/KOR, 22 October 
2019; and Permanent Delegation 
of the Republic of Korea to the 
WTO (25 October 2019)  Terminated on  
22 August 2019 
(without measure)  
Madagasca r 
Initiation on 31 December 2018 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of detergent powder (HS 
3402)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/MDG/3, 
9 January  2019  
Initiation on 25 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of sweetened condensed 
milk (HS 0402.99.00) from Malaysia  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/MDG, 24  October 
2019  
Initiation on 14 August 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of soaps (HS 3401)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/MDG/5, 
28 August  2019  
Initiation on 14 August 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of petroleum oils ( huiles 
lubrifiantes ) (HS 2710.19.33)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/MDG/6, 
28 August  2019  
Initiation on 14 August 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of vegetable fats and oils 
and their cleavage product, and margarines (HS 
1507; 1508; 1509; 1510; 1511; 1512; 1514; 1517; 
1518)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/MDG/7, 
28 August  2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 159 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Malaysia  
Termination on 15 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of electrolytic tinplate (HS 
7210.12.20) from China and Korea, Rep. of 
(investigation initiated on 20 February 2013, 
provisional and definitive duties imposed on  
20 July and 16 November 2013, respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/MYS, 
4 February  2019  
Termination on 30 January 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on hot rolled coils (HS  7208; 7225) from 
China and Indonesia (investigation initi ated on 18 
June 2014. Provisional and definitive duties imposed 
on 17 October 2014 and 14 February 2015, 
respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/MYS, 
21 October  2019  
Initiation on 29 March 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of cold-rolled coils of iron or 
non-alloy steel, of width more than 1,300 mm (HS 
7209.15; 7209.16; 7209.17; 7209.18; 7225.50) 
from China; Japan; Korea, Rep. of and Viet Nam  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/MYS, 
21 October  2019  
Initiation on 26 April 2019 of anti-dumping 
investigation on imports of steel concrete reinforcing 
bar (HS 7214.10; 7214.20; 7214.30; 7214.99; 
7228.10; 7228.20; 7228.30; 7228.40; 7228.50; 
7228.60; 7228.80) from Singapore and Turkey  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/MYS, 
21 October  2019  
Initiat ion on 26 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of cellulose fibre -cement 
reinforced flat and pattern sheet (HS 6811.82.20; 
6811.82.90) from Indonesia  Notice AD 03/19 – Federal 
Government Gazette P.U. (B) 352 
(26 July 2019)   
Mexico  
Initiation on 20 December 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of aluminium pressure 
cookers (HS  7615.10.01) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/MEX,  
1 October 2019  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
26 June 2019  
Termination on 25 January 2019 (without measure) 
of anti -dumping investigation on imports of 
polybutadiene -styrene rubber in emulsion "SBR" (HS 
4002.19.01; 4002.19.02; 4002.19.03; 4002.19.99) 
from Poland (initiated on 10 August 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/MEX, 1  October 
2019  
Initiation on 5 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of stainless steel flat 
products (HS 7219.34.01; 7219.35.01; 7220.20.02; 
9802.00.01; 9802.00.02; 9802.00.03; 9802.00.07; 
9802.00.10; 9802.00.13; 9802.00.19) from China 
and Chinese  Taipei  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/MEX, 1  October 
2019  
Initiation on 16 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of wind towers 
(HS 8502.31.01) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/MEX, 1  October 
2019  
Initiation on 2 August 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of metal zip fasteners (HS 
9607.11.01) from China  Permanent Delegation of Mexico 
to the WTO (28 October 2019) 
and Diario Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal), 2 August 2019   
Initiation on 9 August 2019 of anti-dumping 
investigation on imports of aluminium discs (HS 
7616.99.10) from China  Permanent Delegation of Mexico 
to the WTO (28 October 2019) 
and Diario Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal), 9 August 2019   
Termination on 16 August 2019 of anti-dumping 
duties on imports of short -fibre polyester (HS 
5503.20.01; 5503.20.02; 5503.20.03; 5503.20.99) 
from Korea, Rep. of (imposed on 19 August 1993)  Permanent Delegation of Mexico 
to the WTO (28 October 2019) 
and Diario Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal), 16 August 2019   
Termination on 30 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of blankets of synthetic fibres (HS 
6301.40.01; 9404.90.99) from China (investigation 
initiated on 1 March 2013. Provisional and definitive 
duties imposed o n 9 September 2013 and 26 May 
2014, respectively)  Permanent Delegation of Mexico 
to the WTO (28 October 2019) 
and Diario Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal),  
30 September 2019   
Morocco  
Initiation on 29  May 2019 of safeguard investigation 
on imports of hot -rolled sheets (HS  7208; 7211.13; 
7211.14; 7211.19; 7225.30; 7225.40; 7226.20.00; 
7226.91; 7226.99)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/MAR/11, 29 May 2019   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 160 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
New Zealand  
Termination on 19 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain hollow steel 
sections (HS 7306.30.19; 7306.61.00; 7306.69.00) 
from China and Malaysia (investigation initiated on 
9 April 2018 and provisional duties imposed on 
26 July 2018 on imports from Malaysia)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/NZL, 11 April 2019   
Termination on 28 March 2019 (without measure) of 
countervailing investigation on imports of certain 
hollow steel sections (HS  7306.30.19; 7306.61.00; 
7306.69.00) from China (initiated on 9 April 2018)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/ 349/NZL,  
16 October 2019   
Pakistan  
Initiation on 1 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of aluminium beverage cans 
(HS 7612.90.10; 7612.90.30) from Jordan, Sri 
Lanka, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/PAK,  
21 October 2019  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
3 May 2019. 
Terminated on  
3 May 2019 on 
imports from 
Turkey  
Initiation on 11 May 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of cold -rolled coils (HS 
7209; 7211) from Canada and the Russian 
Federation  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/PAK,  
21 October 2019   
Panama  
Initiation on 3 May 2019 of safeguard investigation 
on imports of pork (HS 0203)  WTO document s 
G/SG/N/6/PAN/2,  
14 May 2019; and 
G/SG/N/9/PAN/1, 
19 November  2019 Terminated on  
4 July 2019 
(without measure)  
Peru  
Initiation on 15 February 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain woven fabrics of 
synthetic filament yarn ( tejidos tipo popelina mezcla ) 
(HS 5407.81.00; 5407.82.00; 5512.11.00; 
5512.19.00; 5513.11.00; 5513.21.00; 5514.11.00; 
5514.21.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/PER,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 12 April 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of sandals and flip -flops (HS 6402.20.00; 
6402.91.00; 6402.99.00; 6405.90.00) from China 
(imposed on 31 January 2000)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/PER,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 1 May 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of certain 
steel bars (HS 7213; 7214; 7217; 7228) from Brazil 
and Mexico (initiated on 2 November 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/PER,  
23 October 2019  
  
Philippines  
Initiation on 20 December 2018 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of ceramic floor and wall 
tiles (HS 6907.21.23; 6907.21.24; 6907.21.93; 
6907.21.94; 6907.22.13; 6907.22.14; 6907.22.93; 
6907.22.94; 6907.23.13; 6907.23.14; 6907.23.93; 
6907.23.94; 6907.40.92)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/PHL/12, 
11 January  2019; and Permanent 
Delegation of Philippines to the 
WTO (31 October 2019)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
8 August 2019  
Initiation on 19 February 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of float glass 
(HS 7005.29.90; 7005.21.90; 7005.10.90)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/PHL/13, 
13 March  2019  
Termination on 23 March 2019 of safeguard duties 
on imports of steel angle bar (HS  7216.21.00; 
7216.50.10) (imposed on 10 August 2015)  Permanent Delegation of 
Philippines to the WTO (31 
October 2019)   
Initiation on 11  September  2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of rice (HS 1006.30.30; 
1006.30.40; 1006.30.91; 1006.30.99)  WTO documents 
G/SG/N/6/PHL/14, 13 September 
2019 and G/SG/N/9/PHL/3, 18 
October 2019  Terminated on  
17 October 2019 
(without measure)  
Russian Federation (for the Eurasian Economic Union)  
Initiation on 1 March 2019 of safeguard investigation 
on imports of microwave ovens (HS 8516.50.00)  WTO document G/SG/N/9/RUS/1, 
6 May 2019  Terminated on  
18 April 2019 
(without measure)  
Initiation on 4 March 2019 of safeguard investigation 
on imports of w elded tubes of stainless steel (HS 
7306.40.20; 7306.40.80; 7306.61.10; 7306.69.10)  WTO document G/SG/N/6/RUS/7, 
21 March 2019   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 161 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 7 May 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of aluminium alloy strips 
(HS 7606.11; 7606.12) from Azerbaijan and China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/RUS,  
16 September 2019   
Termination on 29 July 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of single 
mode optical fiber (HS 9001.10) from Japan and the 
United Sates (investigation initiated on 26 March 
2018)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian  Federation to the WTO  
(25 October 2019)   
On 25 August 2019 temporary suspension of anti -
dumping duties on imports of steel railway wheels 
(HS 8607.19.10) from Ukraine (investig ation 
initiated on 17  October 2014 and definitive duty 
imposed on 22 January 2016)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian  Federation to the WTO  
(25 October 2019)   
Initiation on 2 September 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of springs and leaves for 
springs, of iron or steel (HS 7320.10.11; 
7320.10.19; 7320.10.90) from China  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian  Federation to the WTO  
(25 October 2019)   
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of (for Gulf Cooperation Council ) 
Termination on 1 November 2018 (without measure) 
of anti -dumping investigation on imports of seamless 
pipes and tubes of iron or steel of a kind used for oil 
or gas pipelines and drilling, of circular cross -section, 
of an external diameter not exceeding 16 inches 
(406.4 mm) (HS  7304.19.00; 7304.29.00) from 
China (initiated on 25 April 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/SAU, 23  April 2019   
Initiation on 5 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of ceramic flags and paving, 
hearth, floor, or wall tiles, whether or not on a 
backing; and finishing ceramics (ceramic tiles) 
(HS 6907.30.00) from China, India and Spain  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/SAU, 21  October 
2019  
Initiation on 14 February 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of super absorbent 
polymers (HS 3906.90) f rom Japan and Chinese 
Taipei  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/SAU, 21  October 
2019  
Initiation on 3 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of Portland cement, 
aluminous cement, slag cement, supersulphate 
cement and similar hydraulic cements, whether or 
not coloured or in the form of clinkers (HS 2523) 
from Iran, Islamic Rep. of  Permanent Delegation of the 
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the 
WTO (25  October  2019)   
South Africa (for SACU – Southern African Customs Union  
Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, and South Africa)  
Initiation on 23 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of poly(ethylene 
terephthalate) (NCM 3907.61.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/ZAF, 27  September 
2019; and International Trade 
Administration  Commission Notice 
No. R. 1034  – Government 
Gazette No. 42612  
(2 August 2019)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
2 August 2019  
Initiation on 1 March 2019 of safeguard investigation 
on imports of threaded fasteners of iron or steel (HS 
7318.15.41; 7318.15.42; 7318.16.30)  WTO document G/SG/N/6/ZAF/7, 
4 March 2019; and International 
Trade Administration Commission 
Notice No. R. 1012 – Government 
Gazette No. 42594 (26 July 2019)  Duty imposed on  
26 July 2019  
Thailand  
Termination on 10 January 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of painted hot dip galvanized of 
cold rolled steel and painted hot dip plated or coated 
with aluminium zinc alloys of cold rolled steel (HS 
7210.70.10; 7210.70.90) from China; Korea, Rep. of 
and Chinese Taipei (investigati on initiated on 8 July 
2011 and definitive duty imposed on  
10 January 2013)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/THA, 
3 October  2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 162 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Termination on 22 February 2019 (without measure) 
of anti -dumping investigation on imports of flat hot -
rolled steel, in coils and not in coils (HS 7208.10; 
7208.36; 7208.37; 7208.38; 7208.39; 7208.40; 
7208.51; 7208.52; 7208.53; 7208.54; 7208.90; 
7211.13; 7211.14; 7211.19) from Australia and 
Egypt (initiated on  29 November 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/THA, 
3 October  2019  
Terminati on on 27 February 2019 of safeguard 
duties on imports of hot rolled steel flat products 
with certain amounts of alloying elements such as 
boron, chromium, etc., in coils and not in coils, with 
or without patterns in relief, of a thickness of 0.9 -
50 mm and a width of 100 -3,048  mm (HS 
7225.30.90; 7225.40.90; 7226.91.10; 7226.91.90) 
(investigation initiated on 30 November 2012, 
provisional and definitive duties imposed on 27 
February and 15  September 2013, respectively)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/THA/2/Suppl.4,  
26 February 2019   
Termination on 12 April 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of melamine 
tableware (HS 3924.10.10) from China (initiated on 
29 November 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/THA, 
3 October  2019  
Turkey  
Termination on 16 October 2018 (without measure) 
of anti -dumping investigation on imports of 
polycarboxylate polymers (HS  3824.40; 3906.90.90) 
from Korea, Rep. of (initiated on 28 November 2017)  Permanent Delegation of Turkey 
to the WTO (24 May 2019)   
Termination on 17 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of uncoloured float glass (HS 
7005.29) from Romania (investigation initiated on 
27 November 2012 and definitive duty imposed on 
17 November 2013)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/TUR, 12 April 2019   
Termination on 21 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of diesel engines (HS 8408.90.41) 
from China and India (investigation initiated on 
3 August  2012 and definitive duty imposed on 
21 November 2013)  WTO documen t 
G/ADP/N/322/TUR, 12 April 2019   
Initiation on 30 December 2018 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of yarn of nylon or other 
polyamides (HS 5402.31; 5402.32.00; 5402.45; 
5402.51; 5402.61)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/TUR/25,  
4 January 2019   
Termination on 12 January 2019 (without measure) 
of anti -dumping investigation on imports of acrylic or 
modacrylic (HS 5501.30.00) from China; Germany; 
Korea, Rep. of and Thailand (initiated on  21 March 
2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/TUR, 16 October 
2019  
Termination on 12 January 2019 (without measure) 
of countervailing investigation on imports of acrylic 
or modacrylic (HS 5501.30.00) from China (initiated 
on 20  March 2018)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/TUR, 22 October 
2019  
Termination on 27 March 2019 of anti-dumping 
duties on imports of textured yarn of nylon or other 
polyamides, measuring per single yarn more than 
50 tex (HS 5402.31) from China (imposed on 
5 September 2008)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/TUR, 16 October 
2019  
Termination on 7 May 2019 of safeguard duties on 
imports of iron and steel products (HS 7208; 7209; 
7210; 7211; 7212; 7225; 7226; 7213; 7214; 7215; 
7216; 7217; 7227; 7228; 7302; 7303; 7304; 7305; 
7306; 7219; 7220) (investigation initiated on 27 
April 2018 and provisional duty imposed on 
17 October 2018)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/7/TUR/13/Suppl.1,  
13 May 2019   
Initiation on 6 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain man -made staple 
fibres (HS 5508; 5509; 5510; 5511) from Indonesia  Permanent Delegation of Turkey 
to the WTO (22 October 2019)  (HS Codes 
exempted 
5509.52; 
5509.61; 
5509.91; 
5510.20)  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 163 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 4 August 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain articles for 
conveyance or packing of goods, of plastic; stoppers, 
lids, caps and other closures, of plastic (HS 
3923.21.00; 3923.29.10; 3923.29.90; 3923.30.10; 
3924.10.00; 3924.90.00; 3926.90.97; 8414.10.81; 
8414.10.89) from China and Thailand  Permanent Delegation of Turkey 
to the WTO (22 October 2019)   
Termination on 9 August 2019 of anti-dumping 
duties on imports of pencils with leads of graphite 
and crayons encased in a rigid sheath (HS 9609.10) 
from China (imposed on 14 January 2003)  Permanent Delegation of Turkey 
to the WTO (22 October 2019)   
Ukraine  
Termination on 2 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of cement -asbestos board, 
corrugated (HS  6811.40.00) from Belarus 
(investigation initiated on 10 March 2011 and 
definitive duty imposed on 5 November 2012)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/UKR, 
18 March  2019  
Termination on 4 December 2018 (without measure) 
of countervailing investigation on imports of motor 
cars (HS 8703.22.10) from Uzbekistan (initiated on  
3 October 2018)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/342/UKR, 9  April 2019  
Initiation on 20 December 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of cylindrical roller bearings 
(HS 8482.50.00) from Kazakhstan  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/UKR, 
18 March  2019  
Initiation on 6 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of some ropes and cables 
(HS 7312.10) from the  Russian Federation  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/UKR, 
16 October  2019  
Termination on 20 April 2019 (without measure) of 
anti-dumping investigation on imports of syringes 
(HS 9018.31.10) from China, India and Turkey 
(initiated on 2  November 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/UKR, 
16 October  2019  
Initiation on 20 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of aerated concrete blocks 
(HS 6810.11) from Belarus  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/UKR, 
16 October  2019  
Initiation on 18 May 2019 of anti-dumping 
investigation on imports of hot -deformed seamless 
steel pipes (HS 7304.19; 7304.23; 7304.29; 
7304.39; 7304.59) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/UKR, 
16 October  2019  
Initiation on 19 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of aluminium wheels (HS 
8708.70.50) from China and the Russian Federation  Permanent Delegation of Ukraine 
to the WTO (23 October 2019)   
Initiation on 19 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of matches (HS  3605.00.00) 
from Belarus  Permanent Delegation of Ukraine 
to the WTO (23 October 2019)   
Initiation on 28 August 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of complex fertilizers (HS 
3105)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/UKR/13,  
4 September 2019   
Initiation on 28 August 2019 of safeguard 
investigation on imports of certain nitrogen fertilizers 
(HS 3102; 3105)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/UKR/14,  
9 September 2019   
United States of America  
Termination on 13 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of polyethylene terephthalate 
"PET" resin (HS  3907.61.00; 3907.69.00) from 
Brazil; Indonesia; Korea, Rep. of; Pakistan and 
Chinese Taipei (investigation initiated on 23  October 
2017 and provisional duty imposed on 4 May 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/USA,  
19 March 2019   
Initiation on 19 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of polyester textured yarn 
(HS 5402.33.30; 5402.33.60) from China and India  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/USA,  
19 March 2019   
Initiation on 19 November 2018 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of polyester textured yarn 
(HS 5402.33.30; 5402.33.60) from China and India  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
3 May 2019  
Initiation on 20 November 2018 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of magnesium (HS 
8104.11.00; 8104.19.00; 8104.30.00) from Israel  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/USA,  
19 March 2019   
Initiation on 20 November 2018 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of magnesium (HS 
8104.11.00; 8104.19.00; 8104.30.00) from Israel  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
8 May 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 164 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Termination on 4 December 2018 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of polytetrafluoroethylene "PTFE" 
resin (HS  3904.61.00; 3904.69.50) f rom China and 
India (investigation initiated on 26  October 2017 and 
provisional duty imposed on 7 May 2018)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/322/USA,  
19 March 2019   
Initiation on 4 March 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain fabricated 
structural steel (HS 7308.90.30; 7308.90.60; 
7308.90.95; 7216.91.00; 7216.99.00; 7222.40.60; 
7228.70.60; 7301.10.00; 7301.20.10; 7301.20.50; 
7308.40.00; 7308.90.95; 9406.90.00) from Canada, 
China and Mexico  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 4 March 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of certain fabricated 
structural steel (HS 7308.90.30; 7308.90.60; 
7308.90.95; 7216.91.00; 7216.99.00; 7222.40.60; 
7228.70.60; 7301.10.00; 7301.20.10; 7301.20.50; 
7308.40.00; 7308.90.95;  9406.90.00) from Canada, 
China and Mexico  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 7 March 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of rubber bands (HS 
4016.99.35; 4016.99.60) from Thailand (initiated on  
27 February 2018)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 19 March 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of carbon and alloy steel 
threaded rod (HS 7318.15.50; 7318.15.20; 
7318.19.00) from China, India, Chinese Taipei and 
Thailand  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 19 March 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of carbon alloy steel 
threaded rod (HS  7318.15.50; 7318.15.20; 
7318.19.00) from China and India  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 15 March 2019 of anti -dumping 
duties on imports of low -enriched uranium (HS 
2844.20.00) from France (imposed on  
13 February  2002)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 18 March 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of acetone (HS 2914.11.10; 
2914.11.50; 2902.20.00; 2902.70.00; 2905.12.00; 
2914.12.00) from Belgium; Korea, Rep. of; the 
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Singapore; South Africa 
and Spain  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 20 19 Terminated on 
11 April 2019 on 
imports from the 
Kingdom of 
Saudi  Arabia  
Initiation on 2 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of wooden cabinets and 
vanities and components thereof (HS  9403.40.90; 
9403.60.80; 9403.90.70) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 2 April 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of wooden cabinets and 
vanities and components thereof (HS  9403.40.90; 
9403.60.80; 9403.90.70) from China  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 24 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of sodium sulfate anhydrous 
(HS 2833.11.50; 2833.11.10; 2833.19.00) from 
Canada  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 6 May 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of large residential washers (HS 
8450.11.00; 8450.20.00; 8450.90.20; 8450.90.60) 
from Korea, Rep. of (investigation initiated on 
26 January  2012. Provisional and definitive duties 
imposed on 3 August 2012 and 15  Febru ary 2013, 
respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 6 May 2019 of countervailing duties 
on imports of large residential washers (HS 
8450.11.00; 8450.20.00; 8450.90.20; 8450.90.60) 
from Korea, Rep. of (investigation initia ted on 
26 January 2012. Provisional and definitive duties 
imposed on 5 June 2012 and 15  February 2013, 
respectively)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 165 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 8 May 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of ceramic tiles (HS 6907) 
from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 8 May 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of ceramic tiles (HS 6907) 
from China  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 10 May 2019 of anti-dumping duties 
on imports of certain new pneumatic off -the-road 
tyres (HS  4011) from China (imposed on 
4 September 2008)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 10 May 2019 of countervailing duties 
on imports of certain new pneumatic off -the-road 
tyres (HS  4011) from China (imposed on 
4 September 2008)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 13 May 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of fresh tomatoes (HS 
0702.00) from Mexico  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 20 May 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of dried tart cherries (HS 
0813.40.30; 0813.40.90; 0813.50.00; 2006.00.20; 
2006.00.50; 2008.60.00) from Turkey  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 20 May 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of dried tart cherries (HS 
0813.40.30; 0813.40.90; 0813.50.00; 2006.00.20; 
2006.00.50; 2008.60.00) from Turkey  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 24 May 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of vertical metal file 
cabinets (HS 9403.10.00; 9403.20.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 24 May 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports o f vertical metal file 
cabinets (HS 9403.10.00; 9403.20.00) from China  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 3 June 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain quartz surface 
products (HS 6810.99.00; 6810.11.00; 6810.19.12; 
6810.19.14; 6810.19.50; 6810.91.00; 6815.99.40; 
2506.10.00; 2506.20.00; 7016.90.10) from India 
and Turkey  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 3 June 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of certain quartz surface 
products (HS 6810.99.00; 6810.11.00; 6810.19.12; 
6810.19.14; 6810.19.50; 6810.91.00; 6815.99.40; 
2506.10.00; 2506.20.00; 7016.90.10) from India 
and Turkey  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/349/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 7 June 2019 of anti-dumping duties 
on imports of freshwater crawfish tailmeat (HS 
0306.19.00; 0306.29.00; 0306.29.01; 0306.39.00; 
0306.99.00; 1605.40.10) from China (imposed on 
15 September 1997)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Termination on 10 June 2019 of anti -dumping duties 
on imports of prestressed concrete steel rail tie wire 
(HS 7217.10.80; 7217.10.90; 7229.90.10; 
7229.90.50; 7229.90.90; 7312.10.30) from China 
and Mexico (investigation initiated on 20 May 2013. 
Provisional and definitive duties imposed on 12 
December 2013 and 24 June 2014, respectively)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/USA,  
23 October 2019   
Initiation on 26 June 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of certain collated steel 
staples (HS 8305.20.00) from China; Korea, Rep. of 
and Chinese Taipei  Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -570-112, 
A-580-901 and A -583-866, 
Federal Register/Vol. 84, No.  128 
FR No. 31833 (3 July 2019)   
Initiation on 26 June 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of certai n collated steel 
staples (HS 8305.20.00) from China  Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration C -570-113, 
Federal Register/Vol. 84, No. 128 
FR No. 31840 (3 July 2019)   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 166 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 29 July 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of utility scale wind towers 
(HS 7308.20.00; 8502.31.00) from Canada; 
Indonesia; Korea, Rep. of and Viet  Nam Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -122-867, 
A-560-833, A -580-902 and A -
552-825, Federal Register/Vol. 
84, No. 150  FR No. 37992  
(5 August 2019)   
Initiation on 29 July 2019 of countervailing 
investigation on imports of utility scale wind towers 
(HS 7308.20.00; 8502.31.00) from Canada, 
Indonesia and Viet Nam  Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration C -122-868, C -
560-834 and C -552-826, Federal 
Register/Vol. 84, No. 151 FR No. 
38216 (6 August 2019)   
Initiation on 19 August 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of polyethylene 
terephthalate sheet (HS  3920.62.00) from Korea, 
Rep. o f; Mexico and Oman  Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -580-903, A -
201-852 and A -523-813, Federal 
Register/Vol. 84, No. 166 FR No. 
44854 (27 August 2019)   
Initiation on 15 October 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of glass containers (HS 
7010.90.50) from China  International Trade Commission, 
Investigation Nos. 701 -TA-630 
and 731 -TA-1462 (preliminary), 
Federal Register/Vol. 84, No. 191 
FR No.  52536 (2 October 2019)   
Initiation on 15 October 2019 of counterva iling 
investigation on imports of glass containers (HS 
7010.90.50) from China  International Trade Commission, 
Investigation Nos. 701 -TA-630 
and 731 -TA-1462 (preliminary), 
Federal Register/Vol. 84, No. 191 
FR No.  52536 (2 October 2019)   
Viet Nam  
Initiation on 10 January 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of aluminium bars, rods and 
profiles (HS  7604.10; 7604.21; 7604.29) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/VNM, 21  October 
2019 Provisional duty 
imposed on  
5 June 2019  
Initiation on 16 April 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of fireboard of wood (HS 
4411.12; 4411.13; 4411.14; 4411.92; 4411.93; 
4411.94) from Malaysia and Thailand  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/328/VNM, 21  October 
2019  
Recorded, but not -confirmed information3 
Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Viet Nam  
Initiation on 5 August 2019 of anti -dumping 
investigation on imports of other plates, sheets, film, 
foil and strip of polymers of propylene, non -cellular 
and not reinforced, laminated, supported or similarly 
combined with other materials (HS 3920.20.10; 
3920.20.91) from China, Malaysia and Thailand  Press reports referring to Decision 
No. 2334/QD -BCT, Ministry of 
Industry and Trade  
(5 August 2019)   
 
 
 
 
3 This Section includes information which has been obtained from public sources but has not yet been 
confirm ed by the delegation concerned.   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 167 - 
 
  ANNEX 3  
OTHER TRADE -RELATED MEASURES1 
(MID-OCTOBER 201 8 TO MID -OCTOBER  2019) 
Confirmed information2 
Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Algeria  
Amendments introduced in the list of imported 
products subject to temporary surcharges ( droit 
additionnel provisoire de sauvegarde ) (1,095 tariff 
lines at 10 -digit levels in Chapters HS 02; 04; 07; 
08; 11; 12; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 21; 22; 25; 33; 34; 
39; 44; 48; 57; 63; 68; 69; 70; 73; 76; 84; 85; 94; 
96) Arrêté du 19 Joumada El Oula 
1440, Journal Officiel No. 6  
(26 January 2019)  Effective  
26 January 2019  
Angola  
Temporary export ban on metal scraps (HS  7204; 
7602; 7404; 7802; 7503; 7902; 8002; 8101; 8102; 
8103; 8104; 8105; 8107; 8108; 8109; 8110; 8112; 
8113; 8548)  Permanent Delegation of Angola 
(2 October  2019)  Effective  
14 January 2019  
Argentina  
Extension of the temporary export ban on iron and 
steel ferrous waste and scrap (NCM 7204; 7404; 
7602)  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(22 May 2019) and Decreto No. 
970/2018 – Nomenclatura  Común 
del Mercosur (30 October 2018)  Effective  
31 October 2018, 
for 360 days  
Reduction of export duties ( derechos de  exportación ) 
for works of art, collectors' pieces and antiques (NCM 
9701)  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(22 May 2019) and Decreto No. 
94/2019 (DCTO -2019-94-APN-
PTE-Posición arancelaria) 
(30 January 2019)  Effective  
1 February 2019  
 
Temporary increase of the statistical fee ( tasa de 
estadística ) (from 0.5% to 2.5%) for all imports up 
to a specific threshold. On 17 May 2019 certain 
imports of capital goods exempted  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(25 October  2019) and Decretos 
Nos. 332/2019 (DECTO -2019-
322-APN-PTE) – tasa estadística 
(3 May 2019) and 361/2019 (17 
May 2019)  Effective May 
2019 to 31 
December 2019  
Amendments introduced in the export duties 
legislation ( derechos de exportación ), resulting in 
exemptions for MSMEs under certain conditions  
 Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(22 May 2019) and Decreto Nos. 
280/2019 – Derechos de 
exportación (17 April 2019) and 
335/2019 – Desgravación del 
derecho de exportación (6 May 
2019)  Effective 8 May 
2019 to 31 
December 2020   
Amendments introduced to the list of products 
included in the Certificate of Import of Used Capital 
Goods ( Certificado de Importación de Bienes Usados 
"CIBU" ), resulting in the import prohibition of certain 
capital goods (1,117 tariff lines at 8 -digit level in 
NCM Chapters 84; 85; 86; 87; 88; 89; 90)  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(25 October  2019) and Decreto 
No. 406/2019 – Importación. 
DECTO -2019-406-APN-PTE – 
Certificado de Bienes Usados  
(6 June 2019)  Effective 7 June 
2019 
Temporary reimplementation of the requirement for 
exporters to settle their foreign currency originating 
from export operations (all sectors) in the financial 
system (eliminated on 2 November 2017)  Decreto 609/2019 – Mercado 
Cambiario – Deuda Pública 
(1 September 2019)  
 Effective until 
31 December 
2019  
 
 
1 The inclusion of any measure in this Annex  implies no judgement by the WTO Secretariat on whether a  
measure, or its intent, is protectionist in nature. Moreover, nothing in the Annex  implies any judgement, either 
direct o r indirect, on the consistency of any measure with the provisions of any WTO agreement.  
2 This Section  includes information which has either been provid ed by the Member concerned or has been 
confirmed at the request of the Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 168 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Australia  
Amendments introduced to the Customs (Prohibited 
Imports) Amendment (Collecting Tobacco Duties) 
Regulations 2019 and Customs (Prohibited Imports) 
(Importation of Tobacco Products) Approval 2019. 
Since 1 July 2019, most tobacco products are 
"prohibited import" (this includes cigarettes, 
molass es tobacco and loose leaf tobacco (HS Chapter 
24)). To bring affected tobacco products into 
Australia a person or importer must have a permit 
issued by the Australian Border Force  Permanent Delegation of Australia 
to the WTO (25 October 2019) 
and WTO docum ent 
G/LIC/N/3/AUS/12, 12 
September 2019  Effective  
1 July 2019  
 
Bangladesh  
Increase of export duties (from 10% to 25%) on rice 
bran (HS 2302.40.10)  Permanent Delegation of 
Bangladesh to the WTO (24 
October 2019)  Effective  
1 July 2019  
 
Brazil  
Temporary increase of import tariffs on certain 
rubber apparel (NCM 4015.19.00), and on certain x -
ray machines (NCM 9022.19.99)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019) and 
Camex Resolution Nos. 98/2018 
(7 December 2018) and 
106/2018  
(27 Dec ember 2018)  Effective  
10 December 
2018  
 
Increase of import tariffs (from zero to 4%) on other 
aromatic hydrocarbon mixtures, of which 65% or 
more by volume (including losses), distilled at 250°C 
by the ISO 3405 method (equivalent to the ASTM D 
86 method) (NCM 2707.50.10); (from zero to 8%) 
on certain pharmaceutical products ( ácido retinoico ) 
(NCM 3003.90.17; 3004.50.60); (from 2% to 12%) 
on cetyl alcohol (NCM 2905.17.20); (from 2% to 
14%) on industrial fatty alcohols (NCM 3823.70.10; 
3823.70.40); and (from  2% to 18%) on safety 
airbags with inflater system, and parts thereof (NCM 
8708.95.21)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (22 May 2019) and 
Camex Resolution No. 58/2018  
(31 August 2018)  
 Effective  
1 January 2019  
 
Increase of import tariffs (from 2% to 6%) on acrylic 
acid (NCM 2916.11.10); (from zero to 8%) on 
certain pharmaceutical products (NCM 3004.90.99); 
and (from 2% to 8%) on sodium polyachrylate (NCM 
3906.90.44)  Permanent Delegation of Brazil to 
the WTO (12 October 2019)  
 Effective 4 A ugust 
2019  
 
 
Canada  
Addition of a reporting and record keeping 
requirement to the steel general import permits for 
carbon steel (item 80) and speciality steel products 
(item 81) (effective 23 August 2019). Addition of 
certain aluminium products (item 83) to the "import 
control list", and issuance of the general import 
permit No. 83 (aluminium products), which has a 
reporting and record keeping requirement (effective 
1 September 2019) (HS Chapters 72; 73; 76)  Permanent Delegation of Canada 
to the WTO (28 October 2019)  
 Effective: see 
individual dates in 
measure  
China  
Elimination of VAT rebate rates on oil -cake and other 
solid residues, whether or not ground or in the form 
of pellets, resulting from the extraction of soyabean 
oil (HS  2304)  Permane nt Delegation of China to 
the WTO (22 May 2019)  Effective  
1 November 2018  
Release of the 2019 catalogue of goods subject to 
import licensing (in HS Chapters 29; 38; 84; 85; 89; 
90) Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WTO, MOFCOM and China 
Customs Joint Announcement 
(2018) 107 on Publishing the 
Catalogue of Goods Subject to 
Import Licensing Requirements 
for 2019. Viewed at: 
http://images.mofcom.gov.cn/w
ms/201812/20181231170911182
.pdf Effective  
1 January 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 169 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Release of the 2019 catalogue of goods s ubject to 
export licensing (in HS Chapters 01; 02; 10; 11; 12; 
13; 14; 25; 26; 27; 28; 29; 38; 44; 71; 72; 80; 81; 
87)  
 Permanent Delegation of China to 
the WTO, MOFCOM and China 
Customs Joint Announcement 
(2018) 108 on Publishing the 
Catalogue of Goods S ubject to 
Export Licensing Requirements 
for 2019. Viewed at: 
http://images.mofcom.gov.cn/w
ms/201812/20181231170446474
.pdf  Effective  
1 January 2019  
 
Further increase of import tariffs (to 25%) on 2,493 
tariffs lines (in HS Chapters 01; 02; 03; 04; 05; 06; 
07; 08; 09; 11; 12; 13; 14; 15; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 
21; 22; 23; 25; 26; 27; 28; 29; 30; 31; 32; 33; 34; 
35; 37; 38; 39; 40; 41; 42; 43; 44; 45; 46; 47; 48; 
49; 50; 51; 52; 53; 54; 55; 56; 57; 58; 59; 60; 61; 
62; 63; 64; 65; 66; 67; 68; 69; 70; 71; 72; 73; 74; 
75; 76; 78; 79; 80; 81; 82; 83; 84; 85; 86, 89, 90; 
91; 92; 94; 95; 96; 97); (to 20%) on 1,078 tariffs 
lines (in HS Chapters 05; 06; 07; 08; 11; 12; 13; 
15; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 21; 22; 23; 25; 26; 28; 29; 
31; 32; 33; 34; 35; 37; 38; 39; 40; 41; 42; 43;  44; 
45; 46; 47; 48; 49; 50; 51; 52; 54; 55; 56; 57; 58; 
59; 60; 61; 62; 63; 64; 65; 67; 68; 69; 70; 71; 72; 
73; 74; 75; 76; 79; 80; 81; 82; 83; 84; 85; 86; 88; 
89; 90; 91; 92; 93; 94; 95; 96; 97); (to 10%) on 
974 tariffs lines (in HS Chapters 01; 04; 05; 07; 09; 
11; 12; 13; 15; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 21; 22; 23; 25; 
26; 28; 29; 30; 31; 32; 33; 34; 35; 36; 37; 38; 39; 
40; 52; 54; 55; 56; 57; 58; 59; 60; 61; 62; 63; 64; 
65; 66; 67; 68; 69; 70; 71; 72; 73; 74; 75; 76; 78; 
79; 80; 81; 82; 83; 84; 85; 86; 88; 89; 90; 91; 92; 
93; 94, 95; 96; 97); and (to 5%) on 595 tariffs lines 
(in HS Chapters 28; 29; 30; 31; 32; 33; 34; 35; 36; 
37; 38; 39; 40; 41; 43; 44; 47; 48; 49; 84; 85; 86; 
87; 88; 89; 90; 94) on imports from the United 
States  Permanent Delegation of China to  
the WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Tariff Commission Circular release 
No. 3/2019. Viewed at: 
http://gss.mof.gov.cn/zhengwuxi
nxi/zhengcefabu/201905/t201905
13_3256788.html  Effective 1 June 
2019 
Imposition of additional 10% ad valorem  rate of duty 
on certain pro ducts (916 tariff lines at 8 -digit level in 
HS Chapters 01; 02; 03; 04; 05; 06; 07; 08; 10; 
11; 12; 13; 14; 15; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 21; 22; 23; 
28; 29; 32; 33; 35; 37; 39; 40; 41; 42; 43; 44; 48; 
49; 50; 51; 52; 53; 54; 55; 57; 58; 61; 62; 63; 64; 
65; 67; 69; 70; 71; 72; 73; 74; 80; 81; 82; 83; 84; 
85); and 5% ad valorem  rate on certain products 
(801 tariff lines at 8 -digit level in HS Chapters 01; 
04; 05; 06; 07; 09; 11; 13; 15; 16; 19; 20; 21; 22; 
25; 26; 27; 28; 29; 30; 31; 32; 33; 34; 35; 36; 37; 
38; 39 ; 40) from the United States (third batch)  Permanent Delegation of China to the 
WTO (25 October 2019) and State 
Council Tariff Commission 
Announcement on Applying 
Additional Tariffs to Certain Imported 
Goods Originated from the United 
States (Batch No. 3).  Viewed at: 
http://gss.mof.gov.cn/zhengwuxinxi/
zhengcefabu/201908/t20190823_33
72928.html  Effective  
1 September 2019  
Colombia  
Two tariff lines eliminated from the list of products 
subject to temporary elimination of import tariffs on 
raw materials and capital goods not produced locally, 
resulting in an increase of import tariffs on certain 
winding wire (to 10%) (HS 8544.49.10.10; 
8544.49.10.90)  Permanent Delegation of 
Colombia to the WTO (30 April 
2019) and Decreto No. 228/2019 
– Ministeri o de Comercio, 
Industria y Turismo (19  February 
2019)  Effective 6 March 
2019 
Temporary increase of import tariffs (from 10% to 
18.5%) on iron or non -alloy steel bars and rods, hot -
rolled, in irregularly wound coils (HS 7213.10.00); 
and on other bars and r ods of iron or non -alloy steel, 
not further worked than forged, hot -rolled, 
hot-drawn or hot -extruded, but including those 
twisted after rolling (HS 7214.20.00)  Permanent Delegation of 
Colombia to the WTO (30 April 
2019)  Effective 13 March 
2019 to 13 March  
2021 
Creation of 2 new tariff lines at 10 -digit level "certain 
electric conductors, for a voltage exceeding 1,000 V" 
(8544.49.90.20; 8544.49.90.90), resulting in the 
reintroduction of a n import tariff of 5%. Item not 
included in the list of products negotiated during the 
Information Technology Agreement (ITA)  Permanent Delegation of 
Colombia to the WTO (16 October 
2019)  Effective  
15 September 
2019 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 170 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Egypt  
Further extension of the temporary export taxes 
(EGP 20,000/tonne) on certain copper and articles 
thereof (effective 24 December 2018 to 24 
December 2019); (EGP 6,000/tonne) on lead and 
articles thereof (effective 24 December 2018 to 
24 December 2019); (EGP 1,300/tonne) on ferrous  
waste and scrap; remelting scrap ingots of iron or 
steel (effective 24  December 2018 to 24 December 
2019); (EGP 7,000/tonne) on aluminium waste and 
scrap (effective 24 December 2018 to 24  December 
2019); (EGP 2,600/tonne) on slag, ash and residues 
(other than from the manufacture of iron or steel) 
containing metals, arsenic or their compounds; 
unwrought zinc (effective 24 December 2018 to 24 
December 2019); (EGP 3,600/tonne) on certain 
paper (effective 24  December 2018 to 24 December 
2019); (EGP 7,000/tonn e) on scrap and waste of 
cotton fabrics and mixed cotton (effective 25 
December 2018 to 24 December 2019); (EGP 
300/tonne) on corn silage (effective 6  January 2019 
to 31 December 2019); (EGP 600/tonne) on cereal 
straw and husks, unprepared whether or not 
chopped (except rice straw) (effective 6 January 
2019 to 31 December 2019); (EGP 700/tonne) on 
lucern (alfalfa) (effective 6  January 2019 to 31 
December 2019); (EGP 1,200/tonne) on crushed talc 
(effective 10 February 2019 to 10 February 2020); 
(EGP 500/tonn e) on talc powder (effective 10 
February 2019 to 10 February 2020); (EGP 
300/tonne) on ultra soft talc powder(effective 10 
February 2019 to 10  February 2020); (EGP 
150/tonne) on quartz ore (effective 10 February 
2019 to 10 February 2020); (EGP 300/tonne) o n 
feldspar ore (effective 10 February 2019 to 10 
February 2020); (EGP 200/tonne) on crushed or 
powdered feldspar ore (effective 10 February 2019 
to 10 February 2020); (EGP 400/tonne) on marble 
and granite blocks crude or roughly trimmed 
(effective 10 Febru ary 2019 to 10 February 2020); 
(EGP 100/tonne) on sand (effective 10 February 
2019 to 10 February 2020); (EGP 250/unit) on crust 
leather of cow or buffalo skin (effective 2 May 2019 
to 2 May 2020); (EGP 150/unit) on crust leather of 
calf skin (effective 2 May 2019 to 2 May 2020); (EGP 
15/unit) on crust leather of sheep skin (effective 2 
May 2019 to 2 May 2020); (EGP 7.5/unit) on crust 
leather of goat skin (effective 2 May 2019 to 2 May 
2020); and (EGP 150/unit) on crust leather of camel 
skin (effective 2 Ma y 2019 to 2 May 2020) (HS 
7401; 7402; 7403; 7404; 7419.91; 7407; 7801; 
7802.00; 7804.19; 7806; 7204.10; 7204.21; 
7204.29; 7204.30; 7204.41; 7204.49; 7204.50; 
7602.00.; 2620.11; 2620.19; 7901; 7902.00; 7903; 
6310; 1213; 1214; 2308; 2526; 2506; 2529; 
2515.11 ; 2516.11; 2505; 4104; 4105; 4106)  Permanent Delegation of Egypt to 
the WTO (22 May  2019)  Permanent 
Delegation of 
Egypt to the WTO  
(22 May  2019)  
New Decree regulating the method of determining 
the percentages of local component in the 
automotive industry.  The threshold of domestic 
manufacturing should not be less than 46%, and 
that the contribution of the assembly line in the local 
manufacturing rate of the car should be 28%  Permanent Delegation of Egypt to 
the WTO (28 October  2019)   
Further extension of the temporary export taxes 
(EGP 500/tonne) on azotic fertilizers (excluding pure 
ammonium nitrate with a concentration higher than 
34.2% nitrogen) (HS 3102)  Permanent Delegation of Egypt to 
the WTO (28 October  2019)  Effective  
17 September 
2019, for 1 year WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 171 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
European Union  
Reintroduction of the Common Customs Tariff duties 
(EUR 175/tonne) on imports of Indica rice (HS 1006) 
from Cambodia and Myanmar (based on EU 
procedures for the temporary withdrawal of tariff 
preferences under the GSP Regulations)  Commission Implementing 
Regulation No. 2019/67  
(16 January 2019)  Effective  
17 January 2019, 
for 3 years. Tariff 
duties set at EUR 
150/tonne for the 
second year and 
EUR 125/tonne for 
the third year  
The Gambia  
Increase of the excise import tax on certain 
products, e.g. (from 20% to 25%) on new cars; 
(from GMD 175 to GMD 280) on spirits; (from GMD 
100 to GMD 175) on beer; and (from GMD 150 to 
GMD 240) on wine (HS 8703.10.00; 2208.20.10; 
2203.00.10)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Gambia (22 May 2019)  Effective  
1 January 2019  
Guyana  
Increase of import tariffs (from 5% to 15%) on other 
hydraulic cements (HS 2523.90.00)  Permanent Delegation of Guyana 
to the WTO (14 October 2019)  Effective 22 June 
2019 
India  
Amendments introduced to the export policy of gold, 
resulting in an export authorization on gold idols 
(only gods and goddess) of 8 carats and above (up 
to 24 carats), subject to certain conditions  Notification No. 44/2015 -2020, 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce (30  November 2018)  Effective  
30 November 
2018 
Amendments introduced to the import policy of gold 
(HS 7108.12.00), resulting in an import restriction 
on gold Dore  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Notification No. 45/2015 -2020, 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce (30  November 2018)   
In January 2019, extension of the temporary import 
ban on pulses (e.g. peas) (HS 0713) (o riginally 
implemented on 1  April 2018 and extended until 
30 September 2018)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Trade Notice No. 01/2019 -20 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry (Department of 
Commerce) (1 April 2019)  Effective until 
31 March 2020  
Addition of Krishnapatnam port to the list of 10 
existing ports through which imports of sawn timber 
are permitted  Notification No. 47/2015 -2020, 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce (31  December 2018)  Effective  
1 January 2019  
Addition of Krishnapatnam port to the list of 10 
existing ports through which exports of sawn timber 
are permitted  Notification No. 47/2015 -2020, 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce (31  December 2018)  Effective  
1 Janua ry 2019  
Amendments introduced to the export policy of 
fertilizers (HS 3102; 3103; 3104; 3105), resulting in 
an export liberalization. Certain fertilizers under the 
"restricted" category moved to the "free" category, 
subject to certain conditions: (i) prior permission (no 
objection certificate) by the Department of 
Fertilizers; and (ii)  production of a declaration 
certificate to customs at the time of export  Notification No. 49/2015 -2020, 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of  
Commerce  
(7 January 2019)  Effective  
7 January 2019  
Increase of import tariffs (from zero to 5%) on 
lithium ion cells for use in the manufacture of lithium 
ion accumulators; and (from 10% to 20%) on 
lithium ion cells for use in the manufacture of power 
banks of lithium ion (HS 8507.60.00)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Notification No. 2/2019 -Customs, 
Ministry of Finance – Department 
of Revenue (29 January 2019)  Effective  
30 January 2019  
Temporary increase on import tariffs (to  200%) on 
all imports from Pakistan (all HS  Chapters)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Notification No.  5/2019 -Customs 
Ministry of Finance – Department 
of Revenue (16  February  2019)  Effective  
16 February 2019  
Extension of the tem porary import prohibition of milk and 
milk products (including chocolates and chocolate products 
and candies/confectionary/food preparations with milk or 
milk solids as ingredients) from China (originally 
implemented on 22 June 2018 until 23  December 2018) . 
The extension is in force until the capacity of all laboratories 
at ports of entry are suitably upgraded for testing melamine  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Notification No. 1/2015 -2020, 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce  
(23 April 2019)  Extended on  
23 April 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 172 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Increase of import tariffs (from 30% to 40%) on 
wheat (HS 1001)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Notification No. 13/2019 -
Customs, Ministry of Finance (26 
April 2019)  Effective  
26 April 2019  
Amendments introduced to the import policy for 
electronics and IT goods, resulting in an import 
restriction. Imports authorized if they are registered 
with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and 
comply to the "labelling requirements"  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effectiv e 
7 May 2019  
Suspension of substantially equival ent concessions 
and other obligations under GATT 1994 on trade with 
the United States in the form of an increase in tariffs 
on selected products (e.g. artemia, chickpeas, 
lentils, almonds, walnuts, apples, phosphoric acid, 
boric acid, other diagnostic reag ents, binders for 
foundry moulds, flat -rolled products of iron or non -
alloy steel, hot -rolled products in coils, 
grain-oriented flat -rolled products of silicon -electrical 
steel, stainless steel fittings, iron and steel 
structures and parts, iron or steel s crews and bolts, 
threaded nuts, other cast articles of iron or steel, 
forged articles of iron or steel, and motorcycles) (HS 
0511; 0713; 0802; 2809; 2810; 3822; 3824; 7210; 
7219; 7225; 7307; 7308; 7310; 7318; 7320; 7325; 
7326; 8711)  Permanent Delegation of  India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019); 
WTO document 
G/SG/N/12/IND/1/Rev.1, 14 June 
2018; and Notification 
No. 17/2019 -Customs Ministry of 
Finance – Department of Revenue 
(15 June 2019)  Effective  
16 June 2019  
Increase of import tariffs on certain products, e .g. 
(from 10% to 15%) on floor covering of plastics, wall 
or ceiling coverings of plastics; roofing tiles, ceramic 
flags and pavings, hearth or wall tiles; base metal 
fittings, mountings and similar articles suitable for 
certain furniture; friction materia ls and articles 
thereof, not mounted, for brakes, for clutches or the 
like, with a basis of asbestos, of other mineral 
substances or of cellulose, whether or not combined 
with textile or other materials; glass mirrors, 
whether or not framed, including rear -view mirrors; 
locks of a kind used for motor vehicles; lighting or 
visual signalling equipment of a kind used on 
bicycles; horns for motor vehicles; windscreen 
wipers, defrosters and demisters; chassis fitted with 
engines, for the motor vehicles of headin g HS 8701 
to 8705; bodies (including cabs), for the motor 
vehicles of heading HS 8701 to 8705; loudspeakers, 
whether or not mounted in their enclosures; optical 
fibres, optical fibre bundles and cables (from 10% to 
12.5%) silver (including silver plated wi th gold or 
platinum), unwrought or in semi -manufactured 
forms, or in powder form; base metals clad with 
silver, not further worked than semi -manufactured; 
gold (including gold plated with platinum) unwrought 
or in semi -manufactured forms, or in powder form ; 
base metals or silver, clad with gold, not further 
worked than semi -manufactured; platinum, 
unwrought or in semi -manufactured forms, or in 
powder form; base metals, silver or gold, clad with 
platinum, not further worked than semi -
manufactured; waste and scrap of precious metals; 
(from 7.5% to 10%) on oil or petrol filters for 
internal combustion engines; intake air filters for 
internal combustion engines; air purifiers or cleaners 
and other filtering or purifying machinery and 
apparatus for gases other th an catalytic converters; 
sound signalling equipment of a kind used for motor 
vehicles; parts of visual or sound signalling 
equipment for bicycles or motor vehicles; (from 10% 
to 20%) on outdoor unit of split air conditioner; 
(from 15% to 20%) on digital vi deo recorder (DVR) 
and network video recorder (NVR); CCCTV camera Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (3 October 2019) a nd 
Finance (No.  2) Bill 2019 -20 Effective  
5 July 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 173 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
and IP camera (HS 3918; 6905; 6907; 8302; 7106; 
7107.00.00; 7108; 7109.00.00; 7110; 7111.00.00; 
7112; 6813; 7009; 8301.20.00; 8421.23.00; 
8421.31.00; 8421.39.20; 8421.39.90; 8512.10.00; 
8512.20.10; 8512.20.20; 8512.20.90; 8512.30.90; 
8512.30.10; 8512.90.00; 8512.40.00; 8539.10.00; 
8539.21.20; 8539.29.40; 8706; 8707; 8415.90.00; 
8518.21.00; 8518.22.00; 8521.90.90; 8525.80; 
9001.10.00)  
Increase of import tariffs on certain products, e.g. 
(from zero to 7.5%) on palm stearin, having free 
fatty acid of 20% or more (PFAD) and other similar 
items used for the manufacture of oleochemicals and 
soaps; crushing or grinding machines (effective 6 
July 2019); (from 7.5% to 10%) on poly(vinyl 
chloride) (effective 6 July 2019); (from 10% to 15%) 
on certain articles of plastic (effective 6 July 2019); 
(from 5% to 10%) on butyl rubber a nd halo butyl 
rubber; certain catalytic convertors (effective 6 July 
2019); (from zero to 10%) on newsprint and certain 
uncoated paper used for printing (effective 6 July 
2019); (from zero to 5%) on printed books (effective 
6 July 2019); (from 20% to 40%) on marble slabs 
(effective 6 July 2019); (from 8.5% to 11%) on 
silver dore bar, having silver content not exceeding 
95% (effective 6 July 2019); (from 9.35% to 
11.85%) on gold dore bar, having gold content not 
exceeding 95% (effective 6 July 2019); (from 5 % to 
7.5%) on stainless steel in ingots or other primary 
forms; semi -finished products of stainless steel; 
other alloy steel in ingots or other primary forms; 
semi-finished products of other alloy steel; wire of 
other alloy steel (effective 6 July 2019); ( from zero 
to 15%) on certain charger/power adapter; and 
(from 25% to 30%) on completely built unit of 
commercial motor vehicles (effective 6 July 2019); 
(from Rs 60/kg or 45%; whichever is higher) to 70% 
on cashew kernel broken, and (from Rs 75/kg or 
45%; whichever is higher) to 70% on cashew kernel 
and shelled cashew nuts (effective 6 July 2019); 
(from zero to INR 1/tonne) on petroleum crude (HS 
2709.00.00) (effective 6 July 2019); (to 50%) on 
lentils (effective 15 June 2019); (to 27.5%) on 
oxides of boron , boric acids (effective 15 June 
2019); (to 30%) on diagnostic or laboratory 
reagents (effective 15 June 2019) (HS 2915.70; 
3823.11; 3823.12; 3823.13; 3823.19; 3904; 
3926.90.91; 3926.90.99; 4002.31.00; 4002.39.00; 
48; 4901.10.10; 4901.91.00; 4901.99.00; 
2515.12.20; 6802.10.00; 6802.21.10; 6802.21.20; 
6802.21.90; 6802.91.00; 6802.92.00; 7106; 7108; 
7218; 7224; 7229; 8474.20.10; 8504.40; 
8421.39.20; 8421.39.90; 8702; 8704; 0713.40.00; 
2810.00.20; 3822.00; 0801.32.10; 0801.32.20; 
0801.32.90; 2709.00.00)  Perman ent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates in 
measure  
Increase of the road and infrastructure cess (to INR 
9/L) on imports of petrol and high -speed diesel oil 
(HS 2710)  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25  October 2019) and 
Notification No. 18/2019 -
Customs, Ministry of Finance – 
Department of Revenue (6 July 
2019)  Effective  
6 July 2019  
Initiation on 14 August 2019 of bilateral safeguard 
investigation on imports of refined bleached 
deodorized palmolein and refined bleached 
deodorized palm oil (H S 1511.90.10; 1511.90.20) 
from Malaysia  Permanent Delegation of India to the 
WTO (25 October 2019) and 
Notification F. No.  22/4/2019 -DGTR – 
(Case No. (SG) 4/2019) – Bilateral 
Safeguard Investigation, Ministry of 
Comme rce and Industry – Department 
of Commerce – Directorate General of 
Trade Remedies (10  July 2019)   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 174 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Amendments introduced to the import policy of 
biofuels (HS 2207.20.00; 2710.20.00; 3826.00.00), 
resulting in an import restriction  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective  
24 May 2019  
Amendment to the Import Policy of seed of peas (HS 
1209.91.40), changing from restricted to free, but 
subject to phytosanitary import conditions as per 
Plant Quarantine (Regulation of imports into India) 
Order 2003  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective  
25 June 2019  
Amendments introduced to the import policy of 
polymethyl methycrylate (HS  3916.90.32), resulting 
in an import restriction  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective  
28 August 2019  
Amendments introduced to the import policy of 
"agarbatti" and other odoriferous preparations which 
operate by burning (HS  3307.41.00; 3307.49.00), 
resulting in an import restriction  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective  
31 August 2019  
Amendment to the Import Policy of 
chlorotrifluoroethene "CTFE" (HS  2903.77.90), 
changing from restricted to free for imports of "other 
derivatives perhalogenated only wit h fluorine and 
chlorine"  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective  
5 September 2019  
Amendments introduced to the export policy of 
electronic cigarettes (HS 8543), resulting in an 
export restriction  Permanent Delegation of India to 
the WTO (25 October 2019)  Effective  
30 September 
2019 
Amendments introduced to the export policy of 
onions (HS 0703.10), resulting in an export 
restriction  Notification No. 21/2015 -2020, 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry – Department of 
Commerce (29  September 2019)  Effective  
29 September 
2019 
Indonesia  
New requirement for exports of coffee (HS  0901; 
2101) introducing stricter export licensing 
requirements  Permanent Delegation of 
Indonesia to the WTO (24 May 
2019) and Regulation No. 
109/2018 – Ministry of Trade 
(January2019)  Effective  
12 January 2019  
Iraq 
Imposition of a 0.5% ad valorem  custom fee on 
imports of pharmaceutical and medical appliances  Permanent Delegation of Iraq 
(1 October 2019)  Effective  
9 October 2019  
Kenya  
Increase of import tariffs on certain products, e.g. 
(from 10% to 25%) on uncoated paper and paper 
board; certain uncoated paper and paperboard, in 
rolls or sheets; folding cartons, boxes and cases, of 
non-corrugated paper or paperboard; other bars and 
rods of stainless steel, angles, shapes and section of 
stainless steel; wire of iron or non -alloy steel not 
plated or coated, whether or not polished; flat -rolled 
products of other alloy steel plated or coated with 
zinc; certain stoves, ranges, grates, cookers and 
barbecues; road tractors for semi -trailers; (from 
25% to 35%) on certain garments, women's or 
girls'; nails, tacks, drawing pins, corrugated nails, 
staples and similar articles, of iron or steel, whether 
or not with heads of other material, but excluding 
such articles with heads of copper; iron or steel 
screws and bolts; wooden furniture; prefabricated 
buildings; (from zero to 25%) on angles, shapes and 
sections of iron or non -alloy steel; liquid gas 
cylinders; and (from 10% to 35) on certain non -
threaded articles of iron or steel (HS 4802.10.00; 
4802.20.00; 4805.19.00; 4805.91.00; 4805.92.00; 
4819.20.10;  6211.42.10; 6211.43.10; 6211.49.10; 
7216.31.10; 7216.32.10; 7216.33.10; 7216.40.10; 
7222; 7217.10.00; 7225.91.00; 7225.92.00; 
7225.99.00; 7317.00.00; 7318.11.00; 7318.12.00; 
7318.13.00; 7318.16.00; 7318.19.00; 7318.23.00; 
7318.29.00; 7321.89.00; 9403.30.0 0; 9403.40.00; 
9403.50.00; 9403.60.00; 9406.90.90)  Permanent Delegation of Kenya 
to the WTO (17 October 2019)  Effective  
1 July 2019  
Increase of the import declaration fees (from 2% to 
3.5%) on imports of certain finished goods  Permanent Delegation of Kenya 
to the WTO (17 October 2019)  Effective  
1 July 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 175 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Imposition of a export levy (10%) on wet blue and 
crust. Exports to Eastern African Community (EAC) 
members exempted  Permanent Delegation of Kenya 
to the WTO (17 October 2019)  Effectiv e 
1 July 2019  
Mexico  
Temporary increase of import tariffs (to 15%) on 
iron and steel and articles of iron or steel (186 tariff 
lines at 8 -digit level in HS Chapters 72 and 73)  Permanent Delegation of Mexico 
to the WTO (24 May 2019) and 
Diario Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal), 25 March 2019  Effective  
26 March 2019, 
for 180  days 
Increase of import tariffs (from 20% to 25% -30%) 
on certain footwear (6 tariff lines at 8 -digit level in 
Chapter 64) and (from 20% to 25%) on 2 apparel 
and cl othing accessories tariff lines (HS  6111.20.04; 
6209.20.04)  Permanent Delegation of Mexico 
to the WTO (24 April 2019)  Effective 6 May 
2019 
Temporary increase of import tariffs (from 20% to 
25%-30%) on certain footwear (28 tariff lines at 8 -
digit level in Chapter  64), and (from 20% to 25%) 
on certain articles of apparel and clothing 
accessories (64 tariff lines at 8 -digit level in Chapters 
61; 62; 63)  Permanent Delegation of Mexico 
to the WTO (24 April 2019)  Effective 6 May 
2019, for 180 
days 
Temporary inc rease of import tariffs (from zero to 
15%) on iron and steel (22 tariff lines at 8 -digit level 
in HS Chapter  72) (tariffs subject to a gradual phase 
out: 10% effective 22 September 2021; 5% effective 
22 September 2023; and zero effective 22  August 
2024)  Permanent Delegation of Mexico 
to the WTO (28 October 2019)  Effective  
22 September 
2019 
Temporary increase of import tariffs (to 15%) on 
iron and steel and articles of iron or steel (206 tariff 
lines at 8 -digit level in HS Chapters 72 and 73) 
(tariffs subject to a gradual phase out: 10% effective 
22 September 2021; 5% effective 22  September 
2023; and zero effective 22  August 2024)  Permanent Delegation of Mexico 
to the WTO (28 October 2019)  Effective  
22 September 
2019 
Temporary increase of import tariffs (to 15%) on 
certain products of iron or non -alloy steel ( planchón 
de acero ) (HS  7207.12.01; 7207.12.99; 7224.90.02)  Diario Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal), 15 October 
2019 Effective  
15 October 2019  
New Zealand  
Further amendment s introduced in the Climate 
Change (Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Levies) 
Regulation, resulting in the incorporation of 
additional goods and also the increase on certain 
levy rates (HS  Chapters 39; 84; 87; 88; 89)  New Zealand – Climate Change 
(Emissions Trading  Scheme) 
Amendment Regulations 2018  Effective  
1 January 2019  
Panama  
Amendment introduced to the list of products (e.g. 
rice; potatoes; onions; meat; new and used 
automobiles; new and used boats and planes; new 
and used heavy duty equipment; machinery for the 
mining industry and new and used self -propelled 
machinery) subject to mandatory prior consultation 
regarding their value by the National Customs 
Authority  Permanent Delegation of Panama 
to the WTO (1 October 2019)  Effective  
26 August 2019  
Philippines  
Withdrawal of tariff concessions on rice and certain 
agricultural products relating to the special 
treatment for rice (WTO Waiver) (HS 1006.10; 
1006.20; 1006.30; 1006.40; 0207.14; 0207.25; 
0207.27; 0403.90; 0405.10; 0406.20; 1602.31; 
2004.10 ; 2306.41; 2306.49; 0206.41; 0209.10; 
0209.90; 0713.10; 0802.31; 0802.32; 0806.10; 
1208.90; 1514.11; 1514.19; 1514.99)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Philippines to the WTO  
(1 June 2019)  Effective 5 March 
2019 
On 2 April 2019, the Republic Act 11203 took effect, 
and officially replaced the quantitative restrictions on 
rice (HS 1006) with tariffs. Subsequently, the law's 
Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRRs) were 
signed by the Secretaries of the Department of 
Agriculture (DA), the National Economic and 
Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department 
of Budget and Management (DBM), and were 
uploaded by the NEDA to the Official Gazette website 
on 8 April 2019. The IRRs took effect on 23 April 
2019 Permanent Delegation of the 
Philippines to the WTO  
(31 Octo ber 2019)  Effective 23 April 
2019 WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 176 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Modification of import tariff rates on certain 
agricultural products, e.g. meat and edible offal of 
the poultry of heading HS  0105, fresh, chilled or 
frozen  Permanent Delegation of the 
Philippines to the WTO  
(31 October 2 019) Effective  
17 June 2019  
Russian Federation (for Eurasian Economic Union)  
Increase of import tariffs on certain products, e.g. 
paints and varnishes; plastic and articles thereof; 
rubber and articles thereof; safety glass, rear -view 
mirrors for vehicles; iron and steel; articles of iron 
and steel; aluminium and articles thereof; 
miscellaneous articles of base metal; machinery and 
mechanical appliances; electrical machinery and 
equipment; parts and accessories of motor vehicles; 
thermometers; inst rument panel clocks and clocks of 
a similar type for vehicles and aircraft; and seats 
(HS Chapters 32; 39; 40; 70; 72; 73; 76; 83; 84; 
85; 87; 90; 91; 94; 96)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian  Federation to the WTO  
(25 October 2019)  Effective  
9 November 2018 
Temporary increase of import tariffs (from zero to 
5%) on mixing or kneading machines (concrete or 
mortar mixers) (HS  8474.31.00)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian  Federation to the WTO  
(25 October 2019)  Effective  
21 August 2019 to  
31 August 2021  
South Africa (for SACU – Southern African Customs Union  
Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, and South Africa)  
Increase of import tariffs on certain tubes, pipes and 
hollow profiles, seamless, of iron (other than cast 
iron) or steel (effective 12  July 20 19) (HS 
7304.19.10; 7304.19.90; 7304.23.10; 7304.23.90; 
7304.29.90); (from zero to 10%) on flat -rolled 
products of iron or non -alloy steel, of a width of 600 
mm or more, clad, plated or coated (HS 7210.11; 
7210.12.10; 7210.12.90; 7212.10) (effective  
16 Aug ust 2019); and (from zero to 40%) on 
disposable underwear of fabrics (HS  6210.10.50) 
(effective 24 May 2019). Imports from the European 
Union, EFTA and Southern African Development 
Community (SADC) members exempted  Permanent Delegation of South 
Africa to t he WTO (25 October 
2019), and International Trade 
Administration Commission Notice 
Nos. R.751 – Government 
Gazette No. 42475  
(24 May 2019), R. 984 – 
Government Gazette No. 42577 
(12 July 2019) and R.1075 – 
Government Gazette No. 42640  
(16 August 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates in 
measure  
Extension of the Price Preference System (export 
licensing requirement) on the exports of ferrous and 
non-ferrous waste and scrap. System requiring 
exporters to firs t make it available to local 
consumers at a preference price, before exporting. 
When there are not valid offers by local consumers, 
export permits are issued freely (HS 7204; 7404; 
7503; 7602; 7802; 7902; 8002; 8101; 8102; 8103; 
8104; 8107; 8110; 8111; 811 2) Permanent Delegation of South 
Africa to the WTO  
(25 October 2019)  Effective 1 July 
2019 to 31 March 
2020 
Switzerland  
Temporary imposition of a fee ( émolument ) (CHF 
7/100 kg) on imports of sugar (HS  1701.99.99)  Permanent Delegation of 
Switzerland to the WTO 
(30 September 2019)  Effective  
1 January 2019 to  
30 September 
2021 
Temporary increase of the import quota (by 
3,500  tonnes) on potatoes for consumption (HS 
0701.90.10)  Permanent Delegation of 
Switzerland to the WTO 
(17 October 2019)  Effective 1 May 
2019 to 15 June 
2019 
Chinese Taipei  
Special safeguard measure (volume -based) on 
imports of garlic (HS 0703.20.10; 0703.20.90; 
0712.90.40)  WTO document 
G/AG/N/TPKM/168,  
4 January 2019  Effective  
14 December 
2018 to 31 
December 2018  
Special safeguard (volume -based) measure on 
imports of dried shiitake (HS  0712.39.20)  WTO document 
G/AG/N/TPKM/169,  
18 January 2019  Effective  
21 December 
2018 to 31 
December 2018  
Special safeguard (volume -based) measure on 
imports of red beans (HS 0710.29.10; 0713.32.00; 
1106.10.10; 2004.90.10; 2005.51.10; 2005.59.10; 
2006.00.11; 2006.00.25)  WTO document 
G/AG/N/TPKM/172,  
24 January 2019  Effective  
21 December 
2018 to 31 
December 2018  
Special safeguard (volume -based) measure on 
imports of other chick en cuts (HS  0207.11.00; 
0207.12.00; 0207.13.19; 0207.14.19; 0210.99.19; 
1602.32.20)  WTO document 
G/AG/N/TPKM/176,  
26 February 2019  Effective  
21 December 
2018 to 31 
December 2018  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 177 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Special safeguard (volume -based) measure on 
imports of peanuts (HS 1202.30.10 ; 1202.30.20; 
1202.41.00; 1202.42.00; 1208.90.11; 1208.90.21; 
1508.10.00; 1508.90.00; 2008.11.11; 2008.11.12; 
2008.11.91; 2008.11.92; 2008.19.42)  WTO document 
G/AG/N/TPKM/171,  
23 January 2019  Effective  
25 December 
2018 to  
31 December 
2018 
Special safeguard measure (volume -based) on 
imports of poultry offal (HS 0207; 0210; 0504; 
1602)  WTO document 
G/AG/N/TPKM/180, 
11 September 2019  Effective  
23 August 2019 to  
31 December 
2019 
Special safeguard measure (volume -based) on 
imports of fresh milk (HS 040 1.10.10; 0401.20.10; 
0401.40.10; 0401.50.10;  0402.99 10)  WTO document 
G/AG/N/TPKM/182, 
27 September 2019  Effective  
10 September 
2019 to 
31 December 
2019 
Turkey  
Increase of import tariffs on certain products (by 
15%) on producer gas or water gas generators; (to 
7%) on aluminium cylinder heads; (by 5% -10%) on 
centrifugal pumps; (by 20%) on table, floor, wall, 
window, ceiling or roof fans, with a self -contained 
electric motor of an output not exceeding 125 W; (by 
20%) on portable sprayers; (by 10% -20%) on 
machines for cleaning, sorting or grading seed, grain 
or dried leguminous vegetables, other machinery 
and its parts; (by 11%) on machines which can carry 
out different types of machining operations without 
tool changes between such operations: with the 
automatic transfer of the workpiece between each 
operation, sawing machines (circular saws and 
others) and drilling or morticing machines; (by 20%) 
on automatic beverage -vending machines, 
incorporating heating or refrigerating devices; (by 
20%) on mine  detectors; (by 13%) on ozone 
therapy, oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy, artificial 
respiration or other therapeutic respiration apparatus 
(nebulizers); (by 25%) on alarm clocks and 
electrically operated wall clocks; (by 30%) on 
snorkels; (by 10%) on tubes,  pipes and hoses, and 
fittings thereof (for example, joints, elbows, 
flanges), of plastics; baths, shower -baths, wash -
basins, bidets, lavatory pans, seats and covers, 
flushing cisterns and similar sanitary ware of plastic; 
builders' wares of plastic; other  uncoated paper and 
paperboard, in rolls or sheets; worked monumental 
or building stone (except slate) and articles thereof; 
articles of cement, of concrete or of artificial stone, 
whether or not reinforced; glass fibres (including 
glass wool) and articles  thereof (for example, yarn, 
woven fabrics); structures (excluding prefabricated 
buildings of heading 9406) and parts of structures; 
cloth (including endless bands), grill, netting and 
fencing, of iron or steel wire; expanded metal of iron 
or steel; chain and parts thereof, of iron or steel; 
stoves, ranges, grates, cookers (including those with 
subsidiary boilers for central heating), barbecues, 
braziers, gas -rings, plate warmers and similar non -
electric domestic appliances, and parts thereof, of 
iron or st eel; monitors and projectors, not 
incorporating television reception apparatus; 
reception apparatus for televisions, whether or not 
incorporating radio -broadcast receivers or sound or 
video recording or reproducing apparatus; electrical 
apparatus for switc hing or protecting electrical 
circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical 
circuits; (by 15%) on insulated (including enamelled 
or anodized) wire, cable (including co -axial cable) 
and other insulated electric conductors, whether or 
not cable and  other fitted with connectors; optical 
fibre cables, made up of individually sheathed fibres, Permanent Delegation of Turkey 
to the WTO (24 Ma y 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates in 
measure  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 178 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
whether or not assembled with electric conductors or 
fitted with connectors; (by 18%) on imitation 
jewellery of base metal, whether or not plated with 
precious me tal; (by 15% -25%-30%) on tricycles, 
scooters, pedal cars and similar wheeled toys; dolls' 
carriages; dolls; other toys; reduced -size "scale" 
models and similar recreational models, working or 
not; and puzzles of all kinds (effective December 
2018); (from z ero to 5%) on dates (effective 1 
January 2019); and (by 5% -8%) on certain cotton 
yarns and synthetic yarns (effective 16 January 
2019) (HS Chapters 08; 39; 48; 52; 54; 55; 68; 70; 
71; 73; 84; 85; 90; 91; 95)  
Exports of copper waste and scrap subject to 
registration (HS 7404)  Permanent Delegation of Turkey 
to the WTO (9 October 2019)  Effective  
18 April 2019  
Support and Price Stabilization Fund deductions 
applied to exports of certain items, e.g. (TL 0.5/kg) 
on all kinds of animal skins and hides, including 
processed leather, and pickled leather, as well as 
chrome hides (excluding split leathers); (20% of the 
FOB export price) on chromium tanned leathers (HS 
4101; 4102; 4103; 4104.11; 4104.19; 4105.10; 
4106.21 )  Permanent Delegation of Turkey 
to the WTO (22 October 2019)  Effective  
10 May 2019  
Increase of import tariffs on certain products, e.g. 
(from 13% to 27%) on sunflower seeds (effective 25 
July 2019 to 1  February 2020); and (by 5% -8%) on 
certain cotton yarns (single yarn of uncombed fibres) 
(effective 22 August 2019) (HS 1206.00.91; 
1206.00.99; 5205.31.00; 5205.32.00; 5205.33.00; 
5205.34.00; 5205.35.00; 5205.41.00; 5205.42.00; 
5205.43.00; 520 5.44.00; 5205.46.00; 5205.47.00; 
5205.48.00; 5206.31.00; 5206.32.00; 5206.33.00; 
5206.34.00; 5206.35.00; 5206.41.00; 5206.42.00; 
5206.43.00; 5206.44.00; 5206.45.00)  Permanent Delegation of Turkey 
to the WTO (22 October 2019)  Effective: see 
individual dates  in 
measure  
Reduction of import tariffs on certain products, e.g. 
nuts (HS 0802); rice (HS 1006); food preparations 
(HS 2106.90); undenatured ethyl alcohol of an 
alcoholic strength of < 80% (HS 2208); 
unmanufactured tobacco (HS 2401); mineral fuels, 
miner al oils and products of their distillation (HS 
2701; 2704.00; 2713.11); beauty or make -up 
preparations and preparations for the care of the 
skin (HS 3304); plastics and articles thereof 
(HS 3904.10; 3908.10; 3926); fuel wood (HS 4401); 
paper and paperboard  (HS 4802; 4804; 4811); 
artificial filament tow of cellulose acetate (HS 
5502.10); iron or steel structures and parts of 
structures (HS  7308.90); nuclear reactors, boilers, 
machinery and mechanical appliances (HS  8413.70; 
8479.89); motor cars and other mot or vehicles (HS 
8703); apparatus based on the use of x -rays (HS 
9022.19) (originally implemented on 21 June 2018, 
based on the suspension of substantially equivalent 
concessions and other obligations under GATT 1994 
to the trade with the United States)  Permanent Delegation of Turkey 
to the WTO (22 October 2019)  Effective  
21 May 2019  
Ukraine  
Further extension of the temporary increase of 
export duties on waste and scrap of ferrous metals 
(HS 7204.10.00; 7204.30.00; 7204.41.10; 
7204.41.91; 7204.41.99; 72 04.49.10; 7204.49.30; 
7204.49.90; 7204.50.00) (originally implemented on 
15 September 2016, for one year)  Permanent Delegation of Ukraine 
to the WTO (16 May 2019)  Effective  
5 April 2019  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 179 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
United States of America  
Extension and increase from 10% to 25% of 
ad valorem  additional duty (originally implemented 
on 24 September 2018) on products of China (5,733 
tariff lines at 8 -digit level in HS Chapters 02; 03; 04; 
05; 07; 08; 10; 11; 12; 14; 15; 16; 17; 19; 20; 21; 
22; 23; 24; 25; 26; 27; 28; 29; 31; 32; 33; 34; 35; 
36; 37; 38; 39; 40; 41; 42; 43; 44; 45; 46; 47; 48; 
50; 51; 52; 53; 54; 55; 56; 57; 58; 59; 60; 65; 67; 
68; 69; 70; 71; 72; 73; 74; 75; 76; 78; 79; 80; 81; 
82; 83; 84; 85; 86; 87; 88; 89; 90; 91; 94; 96)  Office of the United States Trade 
Representative – Notice of 
Modification of Section 301 
Action: China's Acts, Policies, and 
Practices Related to Technology 
Transfer, Intellectual Property, 
and Innovation. Federal Register 
/ Vol. 84 No. 90 (20459)  
(9 May 2019). Viewed at: 
https://ustr.gov/sites/default/files
/enforcement/301Investigations/
84_FR_20459.pdf and 
https://www.govinfo.gov/content
/pkg/FR -2018-09-21/pdf/2018 -
20610.pdf  Effective  
10 May 2019  
Modification to the list of beneficiary developing 
countries under the Trade Act of 1974, resulting in 
the terminati on of Turkey's designation as a 
beneficiary developing country  Presidential Document, Proclamation 
9887 of 16 May 2019, Federal 
Register/Vol. 84, No. 98 (No. 23425) 
(21 May 2019). Viewed at: 
https://ustr.gov/sites/default/files/Pr
oc_9887_Turkey_GSP_Termina tion.p
df Effective  
17 May 2019  
Modification to the list of beneficiary developing 
countries under the Trade Act of 1974, resulting in 
the termination of India's designation as a 
beneficiary developing country  The White House – Presidential 
Proclamations. Viewed at: 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/pres
idential -actions/proclamation -
modify -list-beneficiary -
developing -countries -trade-act-
1974-2/ Effective  
5 June 2019  
Imposition of an additional duty of 25% on certain 
products from China (3,229 tariff lines at 8-digit 
level, in HS Chapters 01; 02; 04; 05; 06; 07; 08; 
09; 10; 12; 13; 14; 15; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 21; 22; 
23; 24; 26; 27; 28; 29; 32; 33; 34; 35; 36; 38; 39; 
40; 41; 43; 44; 48; 49; 52; 53; 54; 55; 58; 59; 60; 
61; 62; 63; 64; 65; 66; 67; 69; 70; 71; 72 ; 73; 74; 
76; 82; 83; 84; 85; 87; 88; 89; 90; 91; 92; 93; 94; 
95; 96; 97)  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO   
(28 October 2019), and USTR 
Press Releases (13  August 2019).  
Viewed at: 
https://ustr.gov/about -us/policy -
offices/press -office/pr ess-
releases/2019/august/ustr -
announces -next-steps -proposed. 
USTR Statement on Section 301 
Tariff Action regarding China 
(23 August 2019). Viewed at: 
https://ustr.gov/about -us/policy -
offices/press -office/press -
releases/2019/august/ustr -
announces -next-steps -proposed  Effective  
1 September 2019  
Recorded, but non -confirmed information3 
Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Algeria  
New import requirements for semi -knocked down 
(SKD) and completely knocked down (CKD) spare 
parts (HS 8708) for the local vehicle assembly lines. 
Imports limited to a certain threshold, with a view to 
restoring balance -of-payments  Press reports referring to 
Actualité – Ministère de l'Industrie 
et des Mines (May 2019)  Effective  
June 2019  
Angola  
Imposition on non-automatic import licensing 
requirements on imports of "selected national 
products"  Press reports referring to D écret 
Présidentiel No. 23/19  
(14 January 2019)   
Burkina Faso  
Import ban on certain food products  All Africa  (11 September 2019)   
 
3 This Section inclu des information which has been obtained from public sources but has not yet been 
confirmed by the delegation concerned.  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 180 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Iraq 
Temporary import ban on certain locally produced 
products, e.g. garlic, pepper, eggplants, carrots, 
cauliflower, lettuces, oranges, eggs, dates, meat and 
edible offal, ice creams, and certain beverages 
(HS 0703.20; 0709.60; 0207.11; 0207.12; 0207.13; 
0207. 14; 0407; 2105.00; 0804.10)  Press reports referring to Ministry 
of Agriculture Announcements  
(April 2019)   
Niger  
Import ban on certain food products  All Africa  (11 September 2019)   
Nigeria  
Import ban on certain food products from Benin  All Africa  (11 September 2019)   
Tunisia  
Imposition of non -automatic import licensing 
requirements on certain products  Press reports referring to Ministry 
of Trade Communication 
(November 2018)   
Imposition of quantitative restrictions on imports of 
certain products  Press reports referring to Ministry 
of Trade Communication 
(November 2018)   
United States of America  
Termination of suspension of Title III of the Cuba 
Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (Libertad) Act of 
1996 "Helms -Burton Act". Title III allows parties 
whose property was confiscated by the Cuban 
Government in 1959 to sue in U.S. courts companies 
and individuals who "traffic" in the property in 
question. The Act prevented individuals and 
companies from engaging in international trade with 
Cuba by subjecting foreign nationals to travel 
restrictions and financial liabilities in the United 
States  US Department of State, Press 
Releases (17 April 2019). Viewed 
at: 
https://www.state.gov/remarks -
to-the-press -11 Effective  
2 May 2019  
Viet Nam  
Increase of import taxes (from 2% to 3%) on 
unwrought aluminium alloys (HS 7601.20.00)  Press reports referring to Import 
Tariff Book    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 181 - ANNEX 4 
MEASURES AFFECTING TRADE IN SERVICES1 
(MID-OCTOBER 201 8 TO MID -OCTOBER  2019) 
Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
MEASURES AFFECTING VARIOUS SECTORS  
Algeria (Observer)  
The government abolished the rule that limited 
maximum foreign capital ownership in non -
strategic sectors to 49%.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.lesoirdalgerie.com/actualites/f
in-de-la-regle-51-49-pour-les-
investisseurs -etrangers -en-algerie -30125  
 Adopted on  11 September 
2019  
Belgium  
Flemish legislation on safeguarding the strategic 
interests of the Flemish Community and Flemish 
Region ("Bestuursdecreet") of 7 December 2018: 
If a legal act by a government body results in 
foreign natural or legal persons gaining power of 
control or decision -making power in that 
government body, and if the strategic interests of 
the Flemish Community or the Flemish Region are 
threatened as a result, viz. if the continuity of 
vital processes is jeopardised, if certain strategic 
or sensitive knowledge i s in danger of falling into 
foreign hands or if the strategic independence of 
the Flemish Community or the Flemish Region is 
compromised, the Government of Flanders may 
annul this legal act or declare it inapplicable. The 
Government of Flanders may only ap ply this 
measure if it can demonstrate that it has 
attempted to achieve the safeguarding of strategic  
interests with the consent of the government body 
concerned.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Official Publication ("Belgisch Staatsblad")  
number: 2018032457  
page: 100 723  
Viewed at:  
http://www.ejustice.just.fgov.be/cgi_loi/cha
nge_lg.pl?language=nl&la=N&cn=20181207
05&table_name=wet  Approved by Flemish 
Parliament on 5 December 
2018 YES 
 
1 The inclusion of any measure in this Annex  implies no judgement by the WTO Secretariat on whether a  measure, or its intent, is protect ionist in nature. 
Moreover, nothing in the Annex  implies any judgement, either direct or indirect, on the consistency of any measure with the provisions of any WTO agreement.   
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 182 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Brazil  
Brazil adopted a new legal framework for the use 
of private data. The law aims to protect personal 
data, whether obtained by electronic or physical 
means, or by the public or private sector. The law 
applies to any data processing operation occurring 
in Bra zil, regardless of the location of the entity 
conducting the operation or holding the data.  
The law provides that the collection, use or 
processing of personal data can be conditioned on 
first obtaining the explicit consent of the data 
subject. Data subje cts have the right to access, 
rectify, cancel or exclude their data.  
Under the law, companies must ensure that 
personal data receives adequate protection when 
transferred abroad. Data transfers are allowed 
under a number of circumstances, including when 
transfers are made to countries offering adequate 
protection, when the regulator specifically 
approves the transfer, or after the data subject 
has consented. Further details are to be further 
specified by the regulator. The law also 
establishes a national da ta protection authority, 
an independent federal agency that will be 
responsible for regulation of data protection, 
including monitoring and enforcement.  
 Modes 1 -3 Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  General Law on the Protection of Private 
Data (F ederal Law 13709/2018)  
Viewed at:  
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/gdpr -
inspired -data-protection -heads -to-35738  Law published on 15 August 
2018.  Provision Meas ure no  
869/2018 published on 28 
December 2018. Effective 
from August 2020.  YES 
Burkina Faso  
The government adopted a new law on 
investment, which aims to improve conditions for 
domestic and foreign investors. Among other 
things, the new law seeks to promote investment 
in strategic sectors, including green and 
renewable energies and handicrafts, by relaxing 
the criteria relating to the investment threshold 
and the number of jobs created.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Investment Code  
Viewed at:  
https://www.assemb leenationale.bf/spip.ph
p?article855  Adopted on 30 October 2018   
Cambodia  
The National Assembly adopted a new e -
commerce law, which aims to facilitate and 
regulate online business operations, domestically 
and cross -border.  
 Multiple 
modes  Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  
 
 
  E-commerce Law  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/business
/na-approves -e-commerce -draft-law Adopted on 8 October 2019   
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 183 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
China  
The government reduced the number of sectors 
where foreign investment is either prohibited or 
restricted ('negative list'). The 2019 National 
Negative List now contains 40 restricted and 
prohibited activities, 8 less than in 2018. 
Modifications include:  
- elimination of the limit on foreign shareholding 
in domestic shipping agencies;  
- removal of the 50% foreign shareholding limit 
on domestic multi -party communication, store -
and-forward and call center businesses;  
- Removal of the foreign shareholding rest riction 
on the construction and operation of cinemas and 
on performance brokerage institutions  (This limit 
had previously been liberalized in free trade 
zones );  
- Removal of the requirement that the Chinese 
party hold controlling shares in gas and heat -
supply pipe network  companies of cities with 
population of more than 500,000 . 
 Mode  3 Selected sectors  Special Administrative Measures on Access 
of Foreign Investments (Negative List) 
(2019)  
 
Viewed at:  
http://wzs.mofcom.gov.cn/article/n/20190
6/20190602876999.shtml  
 Effective 30 July 2019  YES 
In the Industrial Guidance Catalogue for 
Encouragement of Foreign Investment (2019), 
China expanded or revised 'encouraged' activities  
in service sectors, including cold -chain logistics, 
e-commerce, artificial intelligence , clean 
production  and recycling  economy.  China also 
expanded 'encouraged' activities , including 
medical institutions and tourism information 
service.  
 Mode 3  Selected sectors  Industrial Guidance Catalogue for 
Encouragement of Foreign Investment 
(2019 Encouraged Catalogue)  
 
Viewed at:  
http://wzs.mofcom.gov.cn/article/n/20190
6/20190602877005.shtml   
 Effective 30 July 2019  YES 
On 15 March 2019, China adopted its new Foreign 
Investment Law, aiming to provide a better 
business environment for foreign investments. 
The law will replace the three existing laws on 
Chinese -foreign equity joint ventures, wholly 
foreign -owned enterprises and Chinese -foreign 
contractual joint ventures.  
The new law aims to further encour age foreign 
investment in China and to strengthen the 
protection of the legal rights and interests of 
foreign investors and foreign invested -
enterprises. Pre -establishment national treatment 
shall be applied to foreign investments under a Mode 3  All sectors  Order of the President of the PRC No. 26: 
Foreign Investment Law  Effective 1 January 2020  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 184 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
negative list, wi th the objective of promoting a 
level playing field that is stable, transparent and 
predictable, and ensuring that foreign -invested 
enterprises participate in market competition on 
an equal basis.  
 
Côte d'Ivoire  
The government adopted a new Investment Code, 
which provides various fiscal incentives to foreign 
investors, including in relation to the use of local 
content. Certain benefits are only available to 
companies that open at least 15% of their capital 
to nati onals. The new measure also provides for 
the creation of a specific agency to promote 
investment and act as principal link between 
investors and the government.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Decrees of 18 December 2018 pursuant to 
Ordinance No. 2018 -646 of 1 August 2018 
on the Investment Code.  
 
Viewed at:  
https://afrimag.net/nouveau -code-des-
investissements -en-cote-divoire -focus-sur-
les-principales -innovations  Adopted 18 December 2018   
Egypt  
New measures have been adopted in relation to 
the management of enterprises in Egypt. A first 
measure removes the requirement that limited 
liability companies in Egypt appoint at least one 
manager of Egyptian nationality. A second 
measure requires non -resident companies with a 
representative office in Egypt to decide, three 
years from the date the office was registered, to 
establish either a company or a branch. The new 
requirement does not apply to representative 
offices of banks.  
 Modes 3 -4 All sectors  Decree No. 256 amending Article 281 of the 
executive resolution of the Companies' Law 
No. 159  
 
Decree No 60 of Egypt's General Authority 
for Investment and Free Zones  
Viewed at:  
https://www.gafi.gov.eg/english/MediaCent
er/News/Pages/default.aspx   Issued 23 December 2018  
 
 
 
Issued on 31 January 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 185 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
European Union  
The European Parliament and the Council 
adopted, on 20 June 2019, the Regulation on 
promoting fairness and transparency for business 
users of online intermediation services.  The 
regulation applies to online platforms and search 
engines, irrespective of whe re they are 
established, that service businesses in the EU that 
offer goods or services to consumers in the EU. 
The Regulation contains new information and 
redress rights for businesses, while platforms will 
benefit from a single, EU -wide regime. It includ es: 
 
(i) harmonised transparency obligations to provide 
predictability for business users as well as for 
platforms on issues such as ranking and access to 
personal or other data received or generated by 
the platform; platforms are also required to give 
proportionate notice of at least 15 days  for 
changes to the terms and conditions applying to 
the platform; platforms also have to provide 
business users with a reasonably detailed 
explanation for any decision to suspend or 
terminate that user's account;  
(ii) a prohibition of specific unfair practices to 
provide contractual stability by harmonising at EU 
level existing national private law concepts such 
as termination rights and bans on retro -active 
changes;  
(iii) bilateral redress mechanisms to immediately 
reduce 'friction' in commercial relations by 
introducing procedural obligations on internal 
dispute settlement and mediation;  
(iv) representative standing of business 
associations in court to overcome any 
enforcement challenges that may result from the 
applic ation of private international law;  
(v) additional public enforcement by Member 
States, including measures to address 
infringements;  
(vi) short review cycles (18 months).  
 Modes 1 -3 Internet and 
network -based 
services.  Regulation (EU) 2019/1150 of the European 
Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 
2019 on promoting fairness and 
transparency for business users of online 
intermediation services  
 
Viewed at:  
https://eur -
lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/ 2019/1150/oj  In force since 31 July 2019. 
Applicable from 12 July 
2019. YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 186 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
The European Parliament and the Council 
adopted, on 20 June 2019, a new Directive on 
open data and the re -use of public sector 
information. The new Directive replaces the public 
sector information (PSI) Directive of 2003 
(amended 2013), and  will stimulate the 
publishing of dynamic data and the uptake of 
Application Programme Interfaces (APIs), limit 
the exceptions which currently allow public bodies 
to charge more than the marginal costs of 
dissemination for re -use, enlarge the scope to 
data held by public undertakings  and to research 
data from public funding , and facilitate the re -
usability of research data contained in open 
repositories.  The Directive will also make high -
value datasets (to be identified by the European 
Commission in an implementing act) available 
free of charge for re -use. 
 Multiple 
modes  All sectors  Directive (EU) 2019/1024 of the European 
Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 
2019 on open data and the  re-use of public 
sector information  
 
Viewed at:  
https://eur -
lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/1024/oj  In force since 16 July 2019. 
To be transposed into 
national law by EU Member 
States by 1 6 July 2019 . YES 
The European Union adopted a framework for the 
screening of foreign direct investments into the 
EU.  
The new regulation does not require EU member 
states to implement an FDI screening mechanism. 
However, existing or future mechanisms at the 
member state level are required to meet certain 
basic screening requirements, such as judicial 
review of decisions, non -discrimination between 
different third countries, and transparency. The 
regulation sets out a non -exhaustive list of 
factors that may be taken into account to 
determine whether foreign investments pose a 
risk to security or public order, including the 
impact on critical infrastructure, critical 
technologies, the supply of critical inputs, access 
to, and ability to control , sensitive information, 
and freedom and pluralism of the media.  
The regulation also establishes a cooperation 
mechanism whereby Member States and the 
Commission will be able to exchange information 
and raise concerns related to specific 
investments. The Commission will also be allowed 
to issue opinions when an investme nt poses a 
threat to the security or public order of more than Mode 3  All sectors  Regulation 2019/452 of 19 March 2019  
Viewed at:  
http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/press/inde
x.cfm?id=2008  Effective 10 April 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 187 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
one Member State, or when an investment could 
undermine a project or programme of interest to 
the whole EU.  
 
France  
A law adopted in July 2019 subjects enterprises 
that conduct significant digital activities (€750 
million of digital services taxable worldwide and 
€25 million of digi tal services taxable in France)  to 
a 3% tax on digital revenues accruing in France. 
Digital services concerned are:  
- the provision of digital interfaces allowing users 
to interact online;  
- the provision of services to advertisers aimed at 
putting on digital interfaces targeted advert ising 
messages using users' data.  
 
The tax applies for revenues generated from 
2019, with the first interim payment due in 
November 2019.  
 Mode 1  Digital  services  Law No. 2019 -759 of 24 July 2019  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jo_pdf.do?id
=JORFTEXT000038811588  
 Effective  1 January 2019  YES 
A law adopted on 22 May 2019 modified the 
review mechanism for foreign investments. The 
new measure reinforces both injunction and 
sanction powers of the Minister of the Economy in 
case an investment has been made without prior 
authorization or in case of breach of the 
conditions attached to an authorization. For 
example, if the protection of public order, public 
security or national defence is likely to be 
jeopardized, the Minister of the Economy can 
take, among other things, interim measures, 
including su spending the investor's voting rights 
in the company, prohibiting or limiting the 
distribution of dividends, and limiting the free 
disposal of the investor's assets. Furthermore, the 
new measure strengthens the transparency of the 
French screening mechanis m by introducing a  
parliamentary control and an obligation for the 
French Government to publish an annual report 
including aggregated statistics about the 
implementation of this policy.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Law No. 2019 -486 of 22 May 2019  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jo_pdf.do?i
d=JORFTEXT000038496102   
 
 
 
 Effective 24 May 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 188 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
On 29 November 2018, the government amended 
its foreign investment regime by extending the 
requirement of a prior authorisation to 
investments in activities related to  new strategic 
sectors. These include: space operations; R&D 
activities in cybersecurity; artificial intelligence; 
robotics, additive manufacturing and 
semiconductors ; data storage in connection with 
public security; IT systems participating in 
guaranteeing the security of operators of vital 
importance.  
 Mode 3  Various sectors  Decree No. 2018 -1057 
Viewed at:  
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.as
px?g=f65e10a4 -5298-41db-8ffc-
38980c0253c1  Effective 1 January 2019  YES 
Germany  
The government amended the foreign investment 
regime. It lowered, from 25% to 10% of voting 
rights, the threshold for screening acquisitions by 
non-EU/EFTA investors in certain sectors: specific 
operators of critical infrastructure; developers of 
software in relation to the operatio n of critical 
infrastructure in specific sectors; companies 
monitoring telecommunications; providers of 
cloud computing services; providers of telematics 
in the health sector; media companies critical for 
the formation of public opinion.  
 Mode 3  Various se ctors Amendment to the Foreign Trade Regulation  
Viewed at:  
https://investmentpolicy.unctad.org/invest
ment-policy -
monitor/measures/3337/germany -
germany -expands -the-scope -of-its-fdi-
screening -regime   19 December 2018  YES 
Hungary  
The government adopted a new law providing for 
the national security review of foreign investment 
by non -EU/EFTA investors in sensitive activities.  
'Sensitive activities' include defence, dual use 
products, cryptography and wire -tapping 
products, financia l services, energy, government 
registries and the electronic communications 
sector.  The screening will apply to: acquisition of 
over 25% of ownership (10% for public company 
limited by shares) in a Hungarian entity; 
establishment of a branch in Hungary; ob tention 
of the right to operate or use infrastructure or 
other assets essential for national security.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Act LVII of 2018 on the screening of foreign 
investments harming Hungary's security 
interests; Implementing Government 
Decree No. 246 /2018  
Viewed at:  
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.asp
x?g=0d91687c -0809-46c0-86c2-
1142e878e84a  Effective 1 January 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 189 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
India  
India allowed foreign companies in the defence, 
telecom, information and broadcasting, and 
private security sectors to open branch offices, 
liaison offices, project offices or any other place of 
business in India, provided an approval has been 
obtained fro m the regulator and the ministry 
concerned. Approval of the Reserve Bank of India 
is no longer required.  
 Mode 3  Selected sectors  Foreign Exchange Management 
(Amendment) Regulations, 2019  
Viewed at:  
https://investmentpolicy.unctad.org/invest
ment-policy -monitor/measures/3363/india -
india-eases -requirements -for-foreign -
investment -in-certain -sectors   21 January 2019  YES 
India announced new conditions in relation to its 
FDI policy on e -commerce. The new measure 
provides that e -commerce marketplaces cannot 
sell on their platform the products of companies in 
which they have equity interests or in which they 
control the inven tory. E -commerce marketplaces 
are information technology platforms that connect 
buyers and sellers. In addition, e -commerce 
marketplace entities cannot mandate any seller to 
sell any product exclusively on its platform.  
 Mode 3  E-commerce  Department of Industrial Policy and 
Promotion, Press Note 2, 2018  
Viewed at:  
http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRI
D=1562493   Effective 1 February 2019  YES 
Indonesia  
The government decided to revoke a regulation on 
e-commerce taxes that was intended to be 
enforced from 1 April 2019. Finance Ministerial 
Regulation (PMK) No.  210/2018, which was signed 
on Dec. 31, required online marketplace operators 
to report details of  each seller's turnover, 
mandated online sellers to register for a tax payer 
number, and set out taxes to be paid by online 
sellers.  
 Modes 1 -3 Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  Revocation of Finance Ministerial Regulation 
(PMK) No. 210/2018  
Viewed at:  
https://www.thejakartapost.com/academia/
2019/04/01/welcoming -the-revocation -of-e-
commerce -tax-regulation.html  29 March 201 9 YES 
Japan  
On 27 May 2019, the government added 
businesses  subject  to the requirement of 
submitting prior notification concerning inward 
direct investment under the Foreign Exchange and 
Foreign Trade Act. Investors in the types of 
businesses covered by the provisions are required 
to submit the transaction with Japanese 
authorities before investing. Activities newly 
added to the coverage of the provisions inc lude 
wired broadcasting and telephony, software 
development, information processing, mobile and 
other telecommunication services, and Internet 
support services.  Mode 3  Selected sectors  Public Notice Specifying Business Types 
Pursuant to the Provisions of Article 3, 
Paragraph (4) of the Order on Inward Direct 
Investment (Public Notice of the Cabinet 
Office No 1 of 2014, as amended by public 
notice dated 27 May 2019).  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/japan -
is-tightening -regulations -32820   
 Effective 1 August 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 190 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Korea, Rep. of  
The government now requires certain offshore IT 
providers to designate a domestic representative 
in Korea in order to comply with personal data 
protection rules.  Modes 1 -2 Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  Amendments to the Act on the Promotion of 
IT Network Use and Information Protection  
Viewed at:  
https://news.bloomberglaw.com/privacy -
and-data-security/south -korea -privacy -law-
changes -may-help-eu-data-transfer -talks 
 Effective 19 March 2019  YES 
Nepal 
The government adopted a new law that reforms 
the legal framework for foreign investment in 
Nepal. In the context of this new law, the 
government raised the minimum threshold for 
foreign investment from Rs 5 million to Rs 50 
million.  
 
Among modifications,  the new law introduces a 
single point of service for foreign investors.  The 
measure replaces the previous law of 1992. As in 
the previous law, foreign investment is only 
permissible in sectors appearing in a 'positive' list, 
while foreign investment in se ctors figuring in a 
'negative list' is explicitly prohibited. The new law 
provides for an 'automatic route' in relation to 
foreign investment approval, but this would only 
be given effect after additional regulations.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Foreign Investmen t and Technology 
Transfer Act 2019  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.neupanelegal.com/news -
detail/new -foreign -investment -act-nepal -
2019.html  
 
https://kathmandupost.com/money/2019/0
6/04/rs -50-million -minimum -threshold -for-
foreign -investment -invites -criticism -from-
private -sector  Effective 27 March 2019  YES 
Nigeria  
The Nigeria Information Technology Department 
Agency (NITDA) issued the Data Protection 
Regulation.  
The new regulation extends to all organisations 
processing the personal data of natural persons in 
Nigeria and natural persons of Nigerian descent 
residing in foreign countries.  
For the processing of data to be considered lawful, 
at least one of the follo wing must apply: the data 
subject has provided consent; processing is for 
the performance of a contract, is required for 
compliance with a legal obligation, is required for 
the protection of the vital interest of a data 
subject or another natural person, o r it is 
necessary for the performance of a task carried Modes 1 -3 Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  Data Protection Regula tion 
Viewed at:  
http://www.mondaq.com/Nigeria/x/781658
/Data+Protection+Privacy/The +NITDA+Dat
a+Protection+Regulation+A+Watershed+In
+The+Protection+Of+Personal+Data+In+Ni
geria Effective 25 January 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 191 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
out in the public interest.  
 
The regulation provides for transfer of data 
abroad, but gives the Attorney General the power 
to determine which third countries provide 
adequate data protection laws. If  the Attorney 
General has not issued decisions on adequacy, 
data may only be transferred to another country 
under certain conditions, including if the data 
subject has consented.  
 
Oman  
On 1 July 2019, Oman published in the official 
gazette a new law that aims to streamline 
procedures and remove obstacles to foreign 
investment.  
 
The new framework no longer requires foreign 
investors to have local Omani partners, in 
activities to be speci fied in future regulations. The 
law does not specify an upper foreign investment 
limit. An economic viability study, approved by 
the Ministry, may be required  before investment . 
Once established, c ompanies receiving foreign 
investment will be treated the s ame as locally -
owned companies.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Foreign Capital Investment Law (Royal 
Decree 50/2019)  
 
Viewed at:  
https://timesofoman.com/article/1781564 /
Oman/New -investment -law-from-January -
2020 
 
 
 
 
 Effective 1 January 2020   
Panama  
The government adopted a new law on personal 
data protection. For the processing of personal 
data to be lawful, the prior, informed, and 
unequivocal consent of the data subject must be 
obtained. The law also establishes other data 
subject rights, including the right to access 
personal data that is stored or subject to 
processing; the right to request the rectification or 
cancellation of personal data that is incorrect, 
irrelevant, incomplete, outdated, inaccurate, false, 
or impertinent; the right to refuse to provide 
personal data or have it subject to certain 
treatment, as well as to revoke consent; and the 
right to data portability.  
 Modes 1 -3 Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  Law No. 81 on Personal Data Protection  
Viewed at:  
https://www.panacamara.com/ley -81-de-
2019  29 March 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 192 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Philippines  
The government relaxed limitations on foreign 
investment in selected sectors. Changes to the 
'negative list', which set out sectors where foreign 
investors face restrictions, are as follows:  
- permit up to 100% foreign ownership of: 
Internet businesses; t eaching at higher  education 
levels (provided the subject being taught is not a 
professional); training centres for short term high -
level skills development that do not form part of 
the formal education system; adjustment 
companies, lending and financing companies; 
investment houses; and wellness centers;  
- increasing from 25% to 40% the limit on foreign 
equity in contracts for the construction and repair 
of certain locally -funded public works;  
- increasing from 20% to 40% the foreign 
ownership l imit in private radio communications 
networks.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Executive Order no. 65 – Revision of 
Foreign Investment Negative List of the 
Foreign Investment Act if 1991  
Viewed at:  
https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2018/10
/29/executive -order -no-65-s-2018  Effective 16 November 2018  YES 
Qatar  
A new law allows wholly -owned foreign 
investments in most economic sectors. It 
abolishes the previous requirement to have a local 
partner holding at least 51% of the shares in any 
limited liability company or acting as sponsor.  
The sectors excluded from t his new legal 
framework for foreign investment are: banking, 
insurance, commercial agency activities, security 
and defence, and other sectors as decided by the 
Council of Ministers.  
The new law also increases to 49% the maximum 
foreign ownership in listed companies on Qatar 
Exchange, subject to approval by the Ministry of 
Commerce and Industry. Executive regulations to 
detail application are to be issued at a later stage.  
 Mode 3  Various sectors  Law No. 1 of 2019 regulating the 
investment of non-Qatari capital in 
economic activity  
Viewed at:  
https://www.gulf -
times.com/story/618609/Law -regulating -
investment -of-non-Qatari -capital -to Effect ive 7 January 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 193 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Russian Federation  
A new Federal Law envisages a  number  of 
measures aimed to  ensure the  safe and  stable 
operation of  the Internet on  the territory 
of the Russian Federation. The  law, in  particular, 
defines the  necessary rules for routing 
telecommunication messages and  provides 
for the monitoring of  compliance with them.  
 Modes 1 -3 Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  Law on ensuring safe and stable operation 
of the Internet in Russia  
Viewed at:  
http://en.kremlin.ru/acts/news/60430  Signed on 1 May 2019  
 
Effective 1 November 2019  YES 
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
The Council of Ministers decided to allow foreign 
investment in four new sectors: road transport; 
real estate brokerage; audiovisual services; 
recruitment and related services. Previously, 
these sectors were on the Saudi Arabian General 
Investment Authority's (SAGIA) 'negative list', 
where foreign investment was prohibited.  
 Mode 3  Selected sectors  Viewed at:  
http://saudigazette.com.sa/article/546329  Effective 23 October 2018  YES 
Saudi Arabia published, on 24 July 2019, a new 
e-commerce law. The law aims to protect 
consumers by regulating e -commerce suppliers 
located in Saudi Arabia and those located outside 
of Saudi Arabia who offer goods and services to 
customers in the Kingdom.  
 
The law allows persons with no commercial 
registration to undertake e -commerce activities, 
subject to regulations requiring them to identify 
their place of business, ensure the protection of 
consumer data and the privacy of business 
transactions, and address product delivery delays. 
The law provides that digital advertising by e -
commerce service supplie rs constitutes 
supplementary contractual terms. Implementing 
regulations will later be issued by the Ministry of 
Commerce and Investment.  
 Modes 1 -3 Multiple sectors  E-commerce Law 2019 (Royal Decree No. 
M/126) of 7.11.1440H (10 July 2019)  
 
Viewed at:  
http://saudigazette.com.sa/article/571438  Effective October 2019  YES 
The Capital Market Authority issued new rules in 
June 2019 that removed the 49% foreign 
ownership limit for investment in listed securities 
by 'foreign strategic investors'. To qualify as 
'foreign strategic investors', foreign legal entities 
must, among other things, own a 'strategic 
shareholding' in companies listed on the Saudi 
stock exchange. Such foreign investors must ho ld 
the shares for two years before they can sell.  Mode 3  All sectors  Instructions for the Foreign Strategic 
Investors Ownership in Listed Companies 
(FSI Instructions).  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.reuters.com/article/us -saudi-
investment/saudi -arabia -relaxes -ownership -
limits -for-foreign -investors -idUSKCN1TR1SS  
 June 2019 YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 194 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
 
 
 https://cma.org.sa/en/RulesRegulations/Re
gulations/Documents/Instructions -FSI-
Ownership -Listed -Companies -en.pdf  
 
South Africa  
Changes to Competition Act give the President the 
power to establish a list of national security 
interests and to establish a committee to review 
inward foreign investment to safeguard South 
Africa's essential security interests.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Competition Amendment Act 18 of 2018  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.bakermckenzie.com/en/insight
/publications/2019/03/widespread -
amendments -to-south-africa  
 Effective 12 July 2019  YES 
Thailand  
The Ministry of Commerce issued a new regulation 
on minimal capital investment rules for foreign 
investors. Among other things, it provides that a 
foreign investor operating a business in Thailand 
that is covered by certain agreements to which 
the country is party (agreements with the United 
States, Australia, Japan and the ASEAN) must 
bring or remit the minimum capital by no later 
than 29 August 2019.  
 
For foreign -owned companies not covered under 
one of these agreements, the minimum capital 
requirements and payment schedules remain 
unchanged. For foreign -owned companies not 
subject to a foreign business licence, the 
requirement is of THB 2 million. For companies 
subject to a foreign business licence, the 
necessary minimum capital requirement is 25% of 
the average estimated expenses over three years 
of operation or THB 3 million, whichever is higher.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Ministerial Regulation Prescribing the 
Minimum Capital and Period for Bringing or 
Remitting the Minimum Capital into Thailand 
(No.4) B.E. 2 019 
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.tilleke.com/resources/updated
-minimum -capital -provisions -foreign -
companies -thailand  
 
https://silklegal.com/minimum -capital -
requirements -for-foreign -companies -in-
thailand -updated  Effective 28 August 2019  YES 
The Ministry of Commerce issued a new regulation 
that exempts certain services activities from the 
49% foreign ownership limit under the Foreign 
Business Act. As a result, foreign investors can 
operate the following businesses without having to 
obtain a fo reign business licence:  
- domestic lending of money to affiliates or intra -
group entities;  
- rental of office space provided along with public 
utilities to affiliated or intra -group entities;  
- consulting services in management, marketing, Mode 3  Selected sectors  Ministerial Regulation Prescribing Service 
Businesses Which Do Not Require a Foreign 
Business License (No.4) B.E. 2019  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.tilleke.com/resources/thailand -
clarifies -service -business -activities -
exempted -foreign -business -restrictions  
 Effective 26 June 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 195 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
human resourc es, and information technology to 
affiliated or intra -group entities.  
 
Thailand's Board of Investment took a series of 
measures aimed at promoting investment in the 
country (see 'source').  Mode 3  All sectors  Announcement of the Board of Investment 
No.3/B.E. 2562 (2019): Designation of 
Science and technology parks;  
Announcement of the Office of the Board of 
Investment No. Por. 7/B.E. 2562 (2019): 
Right and benefit of corporate income tax 
exemption or reduction;  
Announcement of the Office of the Board of 
Investment No. Por. 7/B.E. 2562 (2019): 
Right and benefit of co rporate income tax 
exemption or reduction  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.boi.go.th/index.php?page=pre
ss_releases  
 May – August 2019  YES 
On 28 February 2019, the National Legislative 
Assembly approved the Personal Data Protection 
Act and the Cybersecurity Act.  
The new data protection law establishes 
requirements for both data controllers and 
processors, regardless of their locations, as lo ng 
as they collect, use, or disclose personal data of 
individuals in Thailand.  
Data controllers must inform the data subject of 
the purpose for the collection of personal data, 
and obtain the data subject's consent. Cross -
border data transfer is only allow ed to countries 
that provide sufficient personal data protection, in 
compliance with the guideline prescribed by the 
Personal Data Protection Committee, except in 
certain cases such as for the  performance of 
actions prescribed by law or when consent has 
been obtained from the data subject. The 
Cybersecurity Act aims to ensure that computer 
systems and networks from the country's Critical 
Information Infrastructure (CII) are safe from 
cyber incidents and can operate efficiently. The 
law will force a CII oper ation to comply with 
international standards. Under the law, the 
National Cyber Security Agency will be Modes 1 -3 Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  Personal Data Protection Act  
Cybersecurity Act  
Viewed at:  
https://www.mdes.go.th   
https://silklegal.com/thailands -personal -
data-protection -act-approved -as-law Adopted 28 February 2019. 
To be effective after 
publication in the Royal 
gazette.  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 196 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
established. This Agency will support the CII to 
set up standards and fight cyber -attacks.  
 
Thailand's Board of Investment took a series of 
measures aimed at promoting investment in the 
country (see 'source').  Mode 3  All sectors  Announcement of the Board of Investment 
No. 10/ B.E. 2561 (2018): Special Measure 
to Accelerate Investments in Thailand 
Investment Year;  
Announcement of the Board of Investment 
No. Sor 6/B.E. 2561 (2018): Promotion of 
International Business Center;  
Announcement of the Board of Investment 
No. Ngor 1/B.E. 2561 (2018): Cancellation 
of investment promotion for activity 7.5 and 
activity 7.6;  
Annou ncement of the Office of the Board of 
Investment No. Por. 12/B.E. 2561 (2018): 
Qualifications, Criteria, and Conditions for 
Smart Visa;  
Announcement of the Board of Investment 
No. Sor. 8/B.E. 2561 (2018): Amendment 
of the list of activities eligible for in vestment 
promotion under the Announcement of the 
Board of Investment No. 2/ B.E. 2557 
(2014).  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.boi.go.th/index.php?page=pre
ss_releases  
 December 2018 – February 
2019 YES 
Uganda  
The new Data Protection and Privacy Act aims to 
protect individual privacy and personal data by 
regulating the collection and processing of 
personal data, as well as imposing obligations on 
data controllers and processors. The Act 
introduces principles on lawful and adequate 
processing, accuracy of data records, the consent 
of data subjects, and establishes a personal data 
protection office under the National I nformation 
Technology Authority of Uganda. Moreover, the 
Act provides that unlawfully obtaining, disclosing 
or selling personal data is subject to penalties 
whereby corporations may be fined up to 2% of 
their annual gross turnover.  
 Modes 1 -3 Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  Data Protection and Privacy Act  
Viewed at:  
https://ulii.org/ug/legislation/act/2019/1  Effective 1 March 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 197 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
United Arab Emirates  
The Federal Cabinet approved 122 economic 
activities across 13 sectors that are eligible for 
100% foreign ownership. This decision follows the 
adoption of a new law on foreign direct 
investment in 2018 that had allowed for full 
foreign ownership, but had not detailed the 
sectors in the 'positive list'.  
 
Sectors on the positive list include: renewable 
energy; transport and storage; hospitality and 
food services; information and communications; 
professional, scientific and technical activities; 
administrative and support service s; educational 
activities; healthcare; art and entertainment; and 
construction services.  
 Mode 3  Selected sectors  Viewed at:  
https://bsabh.com/100 -foreign -ownership -
for-13-sectors -in-the-uae 2 July 2019   
A new FDI Law allows up to 100% foreign 
ownership in certain sectors. Under the previous 
law, foreign ownership in 'onshore' UAE 
companies was limited to 49%, unless decided 
otherwise by Cabinet.  
 
The new law establishes a negative list setting out 
the sectors where foreign investment is not 
allowed, and a positive list of sectors where it is 
allowed. Sectors on the negative list include 
insurance and banking; water and electricity; air 
and land tra nsport services; post, audiovisual and 
telecommunication services; and retail trade of 
medical products, including pharmacies.  
The FDI Law does not yet detail the sectors in the 
positive list. Sectors to be listed will indicate the 
percentage of foreign o wnership allowed (between 
49% and 100%) and whether restrictions on the 
type of legal entity, minimum capital 
requirements, or requirements of the employment 
of nationals are imposed.  
 Mode 3  Various sectors  Federal Decree -Law no. 19 of 2018 on 
Foreign Dir ect Investment ("FDI Law")  Effective 30 October 2018   
United States  
The government announced that it ceased the 
suspension of Title III of the Cuba Liberty and 
Democratic Solidarity (Libertad) Act of 1996 
"Helms -Burton Act". Title III allows parties whose 
property was confiscated by the Cuban 
Government in 1959 to sue in U .S. courts All modes  All sectors  US Department of State, Press Releases (17 
April 2019).  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.state.gov/remarks -to-the-
press -11 Effective 2 May 2019   
 
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 198 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
companies and individuals who "traffic" in the 
property in question. The Act prevented 
individuals and companies from engaging in 
international trade with Cuba by subjecting 
foreign nationals to travel restrictions and 
financial liabilities in t he United S tates. 
 
Viet Nam  
The National Assembly adopted, on 13 June 2019, 
the Law on Tax Administration, which introduces a 
new taxation regime for foreign service suppliers, 
including in relation to e -commerce activities.  
 
Among modifications brought by the new law, 
banks and fore ign suppliers not established in Viet 
Nam have to file and pay taxes in Viet Nam for e -
commerce activities that generate income in Viet 
Nam. The State Bank of Viet Nam is required to 
develop a nation -wide e -payment system for e -
commerce platforms, and bank s have to identify 
transactions subject to the law, impose a 
withholding tax on the transactions and remit the 
proceeds to tax authorities.  
 Mode 1  Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  Law on Tax Administration  
 
Viewed at:  
https://home.kpmg/us/en/home/insights/2
019/07/tnf -vietnam -taxation -e-commerce -
transactions -implications -banks.html  
 Effective 1 July 2020  YES 
TELECOMMUNICATIONS/ICT/AUDIOVISUAL SERVICES  
Afghanistan  
The President approved regulations for the 
creation of the Afghanistan High Council of 
Telecommunications and Information Technology 
(AHCTIT ), which will guide national 
telecommunications projects. The council is tasked 
with promoting the sustainable development of 
ICT applications at the national level.  
 Modes 1 -3  Telecommunication 
services  Presidential Decree No. 460   
Viewed at:  
https://mcit.gov.af/node/7405  Published 17 April 2019   
Australia  
A new law was adopted to create a modern 
framework for Australian law enforcement and 
national security agencies to work with the 
communications industry to overcome 
technological obstacles to the use of data in the 
investigation of serious crimes. The law  applies to 
designated communications providers  (DCP), 
which includes Australian and foreign companies 
operating in the communications supply chain 
with at least one Australian end -user. The Modes 1 -3  Telecommunication 
services  Telecommunications and Other Legislation 
Amendment (Assistance and Access) Act 
2018. 
Viewed  at: https://www.legislation.gov.au/
Details/C2018A00148   Adopted 6 December 2018  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 199 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
framework includes powers to request or compel 
assistance that is  within a DCP's existing 
capability. DCPs may also be compelled to build a 
new capability if assistance required is beyond 
their existing capability. Use of the powers cannot 
require providers to implement a systemic 
weakness or vulnerability, build a decr yption 
capability or prevent providers from patching 
vulnerabilities. When using the powers, the 
decision -maker must be satisfied that the 
assistance sought is "reasonable and 
proportionate" and whether compliance is 
"practicable and technically feasible."  The law 
does not create standing obligations on DCPs.  
 
Brazil  
Brazil's President signed a law aiming to 
modernize the country's regulatory regime for 
telecommunication services. It lifts restrictions on 
asset sales, and seeks to encourage investment 
in broadband in remote areas of Brazil by 
allowing companies to own outright telecom 
assets, such as cell towers and real estate.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  PLC no. 79/2016  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.reuters.com/article/brazil -
telecoms/brazils -bolsonaro -signs-telecoms -
law-to-boost -sector -idUSL2N26P1MK  Effective 4 October 2019   
The National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) 
approved a plan to help expand broadband access 
in Brazil by coordinating investment from the 
public and private sectors. The Structural Plan for 
Telecommunications Networks ( PERT) would 
become Anatel 's formal instrument for 
implementing policies and serve as a reference 
for adjusting concessions and rebalancing 
obligations by operators.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Judgement nº 309/2019  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.anatel.gov.br/setorregulado/in
dex.php/component/cont ent/article?id=131   14 June 2019   
Chile  
Parliament adopted a bill requiring companies to 
offer roaming access to their networks to other 
operators that do not have coverage in certain 
areas of the country. The National Automatic 
Roaming ( RAN) Bill aims to improve connectivity 
for remote communities. The legislation would 
allow users in these areas to connect to any 
network with coverage of the area, regardless of 
their service provider.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  National Automatic Mobile Roaming Bill  
(RAN Bill)  
 
Viewed at:  
https://pisapapeles.net/el -roaming -
automatico -nacional -es-aprobado -por-el-
senado  
 Adopted 1 October 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 200 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Colombia  
The President signed, on 25 July 2019, a new law 
aiming to simplify and modernise the regulatory 
framework for the information and 
communication technologies (ICT) sector.  
 
Before this measure, telecom services and 
television broadcasting services were re gulated 
under two different laws. The new law 
consolidates the regulation of telecommunications 
and broadcast television under a single regulator.  
Among changes introduced, the ICT Ministry 
extends its oversight of quality of service 
obligations to televis ion services, the term of 
licences for the use of radio spectrum is extended 
from 10 to 20 years, and licensing requirements 
for television services are harmonized.  
 Multiple 
modes  Telecommunication 
and audiovisual 
services  
 
 
  Law 1978 of 2019, on the Mo dernization of 
the Information and Communications 
Technologies Sector  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.funcionpublica.gov.co/eva/ges
tornormativo/norma.php?i=98210  
 Effective 25 July 2019  YES 
Egypt  
Egypt 's National Telecom Regulatory Authority 
(NTRA ) reached settlement agreements with 
three of the country's mobile network operators, 
ending 10 years of legal disputes with the mobile 
operators over interconnection rates.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Viewed at:  
http://www.tra.gov.eg/en/media -
center/press -
releases/Pages/ICT%20Minister%20Witnes
ses%20Signing%20Settlement% 20Agreem
ents%20between%20NTRA,%20Mobile%20
Operators.aspx   
 9 September 2019  YES 
Ethiopia (Observer)  
The Parliament adopted a new law to liberalize the 
telecommunication sector. It establishes the legal 
framework for a newly -created telecom regulatory 
authority that will issue new licences to private 
operators, without limits on foreign ownership. 
Currently, a state -owned company is the 
monopoly supplier.  
 Multiple 
modes  Telecommun ication 
services  Communication Regulatory Proclamation  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.theafricareport.com/14199/eth
iopias -liberalised -telecom -sector -offers -
opportunity -with-glitches  
 
  Adopted on 13 June 2019   
The Council of Ministers has issued a 
proclamation calling for the establishment of an 
independent federal government body to oversee 
the communications sector. Powers and duties to 
be assigned to the new body include: the issuing, 
modification and renewal of licences; the 
regulation of interconnection between providers; 
the supervision of radio spectrum and the 
authorisation of frequencies for commercial use;  
 Mode s 1-3 Telecommunication 
services  Proclamation for the regulation of 
communication service  
Viewed at:  
http://addisstandard.com/exclusive -
ethiopia -to-establish -new-authority -to-
regulate -telecommunicatio n-service -see-
copy-of-the-new-proclamation   4 February 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 201 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
the regulation of tariffs; and the regulation of the 
types of telecoms equipment that can be used.  
 
European Union  
The European Electronic Communications Code 
recasts four Directives into one single Directive 
(2018/1972). The main provisions are on access, 
radio spectrum and end -users. On access, the 
Code maintains the designation of significant 
market power (SMP) as t he basis for imposing 
ex ante regulation, puts emphasis on access to 
civil infrastructure and provides incentives for SMP 
operators which employ a wholesale -only model 
or engage in co -investments with rival operators. 
The Code ensures the availability of pioneer 5G 
radio spectrum by t he end of 2020 in the EU and 
provides operators with predictability for at least 
20 years in terms of spectrum licensing. The Code 
also harmonises end -user protection, for example 
for bundled services and for switching of providers 
and updates the universa l service and emergency 
communications rules.  
 Modes 1 -3 Communication 
services  Directive (EU) 2018/1972 establishing the 
European Electronic Communications Code  
Viewed at: 
https://www.europeansources.info/record/d
irective -eu-2018-1972-establishing -the-
european -electronic -communications -code  17 December 2018  YES 
Fiji 
The Parliament adopted the Online Safety Act 
2018. The objectives of the new law are to 
promote responsible online behavior and online 
safety, and to encourage a safe online culture and 
environment that addresses cyberbullying, cyber 
stalking, Internet tro lling and exposure to 
offensive or harmful content particularly in respect 
of children. Under the new measure, someone 
who "posts an electronic communication where 
posting the electronic communication causes harm 
to the individual" could be liable to a fin e of 
FDJ 9,400 and up to five years in prison.  
 Modes 1 -3 Communication 
services  Online Safety Act 2018  
Viewed at:  
http://www.fiji.gov.fj/getattachment/2b2f6f
07-1016-48b5-9922-dc489cba1dd8/Act -8--
-Online -Safety -Act.aspx   Effective  1 January 2019   
India  
On 28 August 2019, the government announced 
that up to 26% FDI was allowed for the 
uploading/streaming of news and current affairs 
through digital media.  
 Mode 3  Digital media 
services  Press Note no. 4 of 2019, notifying 
amendments to the Consolidated For eign 
Direct Investment Policy  
 
Viewed at:  
https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.asp
x?relid=193277  
 Effective from the date of 
FEMA notification  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 202 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Italy  
The government adopted new rules in March 
2019 that added 5G -based communications 
services to the list of strategic assets for the 
purpose of the national security review process.  
 
On 11 July, the government issued a decree 
spelling out its powers in infr astructure projects 
that involve the rollout of 5G telecoms network.  
An entity that enters in 5G -related goods or 
service contracts or acquires components for 5G 
networks from non -EU providers now needs to 
notify the contract in order to allow the 
governme nt to assess national security risks.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Law Decree No. 22/2019 of 25 March 2019, 
passed into law on 13 May 2019.  
 
Law Decree No. 64/2019 amending the Law 
Decree No. 21 of March 15 (" Golden Power 
Legislation "). 
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.as
px?g=ef072174 -4897-4f52-8506-
64fac69187ff  
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/italian
-government -acts-to-strengthen -95951  
 Effective 26 March 2019  
 
 
Adopted 11 July 2019   
Japan  
Japan's Diet approved an amendment to the 
Telecommunications Business Act to facilitate fair 
competition in the mobile communication sector . 
The amendment prohibits mobile operators from 
offering discount for retail communication charges 
at the time of sale of mobile handsets. It also 
prohibits conditions which unduly constrain 
subscribers from cancelling contracts.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Amendment to the Telecommunications 
Business Law  
Viewed at:  
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2019/0
3/05/business/bill -lower -mobile -phone -
fees-japan -moves -forward/#.XML_z -Q7Z9A   10 May 2019  YES 
Kenya  
The government introduced an excise duty tax of 
15% on voice, SMS and Internet data services. 
Previously, a 10% tax on telephone services was 
imposed.  
The new measure also introduced a 20% excise 
duty rate on money transfer services by banks 
and other fee s charged by financial institutions. 
Further, the excise duty on money transfer 
services by mobile phone providers was increased 
from 10% to 12%.  
 Modes 1 -3 Telecommunication 
and financial 
services  Finance Bill 2018  
Viewed at:  
http://www.itwebafrica.com/ict -and-
governance/256 -kenya/244877 -kenya -
uhuru -slaps-tax-on-internet -and-money -
transfer -charges   Effective 18 October 2018   
Korea, Rep. of  
The government amended the telecommunications 
law in order to relax and simplify the regulatory 
framework. Among other things, it moves from a 
licensing regime to a registration system.  Modes 1 -3 Telecommunication 
services  Amendments to the Telecommunicat ions 
Business Act.  
Viewed at:  
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.asp
x?g=0c776f48 -6c3f-4067-a998-
2cf62329c8f5  Effective 25 June 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 203 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Morocco  
A law was enacted that amends and supplements 
the Post and Telecommunications Act. It gives 
more power to the National Agency of 
Telecommunications Regulation (ANRT) and will 
allow the ANRT to impose penalties on operators 
of up to 2% of their turnover before tax in cases 
of infringement. The bill also addresses consumer 
protection, infrastructure sharing, and the 
integration of optical fibre infrastructure in 
buildings. It provides for the creation of a national 
roaming system.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Law No. 121 -12 amending Post and 
Telecommunications Act No. 24 -96. 
Viewed  at: http://www.leseco.ma/maroc/74
772-telecoms -les-details -de-la-nouvelle -
loi.html  Published on 18 February 
2019  
Niger  
The Council of Ministers adopted three decrees of 
the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and the 
Digital Economy. The first decree outlines the 
guidelines, priorities and funding for universal 
access. The second concerns the establishment 
and control of tariffs, including the terms and 
conditions operators may use to set rates for 
services provided to the public. The third decree 
contains general conditions for interconnection 
and acce ss, including local loop unbundling.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Viewed at:  
https://www.presidence.ne/conseil s-des-
ministres/2018/10/19/communique -du-
conseil -des-ministres -du-vendredi -19-
octobre -2018 Adopted October 2018   
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
The Communications and Information Technology 
Commission decided to remove restrictions 
relating to the single host provider and to 
introduce modifications and enhancements to the 
current system for issuing mobile virtual network 
operator licences.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Decision No. 1440/399 of the 
Communications and Information 
Technology Commission approving the 
'Rules and Conditions for MVNO Services 
and IoT -VNO Services Provision'  February 2019  YES 
Senegal  
The government adopted a new law on electronic 
communications, which replaced the 2011 law on 
telecommunications. The new measure aims to 
enhance the security and regulation necessary for 
the emergence of ICT, to foster higher quality 
service at reasonable prices, and to protect right s 
of services users. Among other things, the law 
expands the powers of the telecom regulator with 
respect to anticompetitive practices, and contains 
new requirements on the protection of privacy and 
personal data.  Multiple 
modes  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Telecommunication 
services  Law No. 2018 -28 of 12 December 2018 on 
Electronic Communications  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.osiris.sn/Nouveau -code-des-
communications.html  
 
 Effective 12 December 2018    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 204 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
South Africa  
The government amended the Film and 
Publications Act, which extends the compliance 
and monitoring functions of the Film and 
Publication Board to online distributors, with a 
view to protecting children from disturbing and 
harmful content.  The new measure provides for 
the establishment of an Enforcement Committee 
that will, among other things, regulate online 
distribution of films and games.  
 Modes 1 
and 3  Internet and other 
network -enabled 
services  Film and Publications Amendment Act 11 of 
2019  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.gov.za/documents/films -and-
publications -amendment -act-11-2019-3-
oct-2019-0000 Published in official gazette 
on 3 October 2019  YES 
Tanzania  
The Parliament adopted a new law giving the 
Tanzania Film Board the right to vet raw footage 
of foreign companies filming in the country. 
Foreign filmmakers are also required to submit a 
finished copy to get clearance before exiting the 
country and must al low the government to use 
the content to promote the country. Failure  to 
comply  will leave  the entity  responsible  for a fine 
of 5% of the production  budget.  The bill will be 
effective  after approval  by the President.   
 Mode 3  Audiovisual services  Amendment  Bill to the Tanzania  Written  
Laws (Miscellaneous  Amendments  (No.3)  
Act 2019)  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.africanews.com/2019/07/05/ta
nzania -passes -new-tough -law-on-foreign -
films//  Adopted on 27 June 2019   
Turkey  
The government adopted a new regulation that 
broadens the scope of broadcasting legislation to 
media services provided as over -the-top (OTT) 
services.  
 
The regulation establishes a new licensing regime 
for different types of online broadcasting services. 
It applies to foreign entities not established in 
Turkey if the broa dcast is in Turkish and targets 
Turkey, if it includes commercial communications 
towards Turkey, or if the regulator determines the 
broadcasting law or international treaties are 
violated. Suppliers operating without a license 
may face penalties, including  Internet access 
bans.  
 
Foreign entities would be required to establish a 
company in Turkey. Media service suppliers and 
Internet broadcast platforms operating 
subscription -based services must pay 0.5% of 
their annual net sales to the Turkish Radio and 
Television Supreme Council. Online suppliers must Modes 1 -3  Audiovisual services  
 Official Gazette No. 30849  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Published in the Official 
Gazette on 1 August 2019  
 
 
 
  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 205 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
comply with the broadcast content rules of the 
broadcasting law (Law no. 6112).  
 
The government introduced a tax on online 
advertizing services.  A 15% tax is applied to 
payments made to providers of online advertising 
services, or intermediaries of such services.  
 Modes 1 -2 Online advertising 
services  Presidential Decree No. 476  Gazetted on 19 December 
2018. Effective 1 January 
2019.  YES 
United Kingdom  
The United Kingdom's regulator for 
communication  services , Ofcom, issued a 
regulatory decision that will provide all telecoms 
providers access to the physical infrastructure 
owned by BT and operated by Openreach. This 
follows a review of both the physical infrastructure 
market and connections that are used by business 
broadband networks.  
 Mode 3  Telecom munication 
services  Viewed at:  
https://www.ofcom.org.uk/consultations -
and-statements/category -1/review -
physica l-infrastructure -and-business -
connectivity -markets   Published on 28 June 2019  YES 
United States  
The Federal Communications Commission voted to 
modernise the regulatory framework for the 
2.5GHz band to make the spectrum available for 
advanced wireless services, including 5G. The new 
order gives incumbent entities more flexibility in 
how they use this spectrum and provides 
opportunities for other entities, including Tribal 
Nations, to access unused spectrum in this band. 
Also, the order eliminat es restrictions on the types 
of entities that can hold licenses. Further, the 
order removes limitations on leases entered into 
on a going -forward basis under the FCC 's 
secondary markets rules, which will create 
incentives to roll out in rural areas.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Report and Order FCC -19-62 
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc -
transforms -25-ghz-band-5g-services -0 10 July 2019   
The President signed an executive order 
prohibiting the purchase or use of information and 
communication technologies or services that pose 
a national security risk.  
The order declares a national emergency with 
respect to threats against information and 
communications technology and services in the 
United States and delegates authority to the 
Secretary of Commerce to prohibit transactions 
posing an unacceptable risk to the national 
security of the United States or the security and Multiple 
modes  Information and 
communication 
services  Executive Order on Securing the 
Information and Communications 
Technology and Services Supply Chain  
Viewed at: 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential -
actions/executive -order -securing -
information -communications -technology -
services -supply -chain 15 May 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 206 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
safety of United States p ersons.  
The FCC voted to adopt new rules related to the 
spectrum above 95 GHz that encourage the 
development of new technologies. To enable 
innovators and entrepreneurs to most readily 
access this spectrum, the FCC's Spectrum 
Horizons First Report and Order creates a new 
category of experim ental licenses for use of 
frequencies between 95 GHz and 3 THz. These 
licenses will give innovators the flexibility to 
conduct experiments lasting up to 10 years, and 
to more easily market equipment during the 
experimental period.  Modes 1 -3 Telecommunicati on 
services  FCC, Spectrum Horizons First Report and 
Order  
Viewed at:  
https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc -opens -
spectrum -horizons -new-services -
technologies   Adopted 15 March 2019   
Zimbabwe  
The Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe ( POTRAZ ) 
approved a rise in tariffs for mobile telephony 
services. Voice tariffs are increased from 17 cents 
(Zimbabwe dollar) per minute to 48 cents. The 
aim is to help mobile network operators facing 
cost increases due to the declining value of the 
local currency as the operators must pay for 
international bandwidth and network equipment in 
foreign currency.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Viewed at:  
http://www.potraz.gov.zw  
 
 
https://www.fin24.com/Economy/Africa/zim
baweans -face-182-hike-in-mobile -call-
tariffs -20190808  12 August 2019   
Zimbabwe 's Cabinet approved the Broadcasting 
Services Amendment Bill which aims to merge the 
country 's media and telecoms regulators. The 
Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe ( BAZ) and 
the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory 
Authority of Zimbabwe ( POTRAZ ) are to be 
combined as the Broadcasting and 
Communications Authority.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
and audiovisual 
services  Viewed at:  
https://www.newzimbabwe.com/new -
broadca sting-law-seeks -to-end-alleged -zbc-
bias-towards -zanu-pf 
  Published in the official 
gazette on 17 May 2019   
FINANCIAL SERVICES  
Albania  
New measures were adopted to strengthen 
supervision relating to the prevention of money 
laundering and terrorist financing, including the 
obligation for reporting entities to carry out risk 
self-assessment and data filing on an annual basis 
to authorities.  
 
 
 Multiple 
modes  Financial services  Decision No. 214 of 31 October 2018 "On 
some amendments to Regulation no. 58 of 
2015 ("On enhanced due diligence 
measures by legal subjects on the 
prevention of money laundering and 
terrorist financing").  
Guidebook "On Identifying Money 
Laundering and Terrorist Financing Risks".  
 31 October 2018  YES 
 
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 207 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Brazil  
A new measure provides  that the Central Bank is 
authorized to recognize as being in the interest of 
the Brazilian government the increase in foreign 
capital participation in domestic  financial 
institutions and the licensing of new branches of 
foreign financi al institutions in the National 
Financial System. Therefore, a Presidential 
Decree issued for each case is no longer required.  Mode 3  Banking and other 
financial services   Presidential Decree Nº 10.029  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.bcb.gov.br/en/pressdetail/2
290/nota  
 
http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_ato201
9-2022/2019/decreto/D10029.htm  
 Effective 26 September 
2019 
 
 YES 
A new law adopted by the Brazilian government 
eliminates the reciprocity requirement from 
Decree -Law 73/1966, which had regulated 
insurance and reinsurance operations within the 
country to date.  The reciprocity requirement 
conditioned the capacity of forei gn firms to carry 
out insurance transactions and establish in Brazil 
on equal treatment of Brazilian insurers in the 
foreign country.  
 All modes  Insurance services  
 Law 13.874/2019  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_ato2
019-2022/2019/lei/L13874.htm  Effective 20 September 
2019 
 
 
  YES 
The establishment of branches by foreign 
insurance companies is  no longer subject to the 
granting of a Presidential Decree, wh ose power 
was delegated to the Director of the National 
Department of Business Registration and 
Integration within the Ministry of Economy.  
 Mode 3  Insurance services  
 
  Decree 9.787/2019  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_at
o2019 -2022/2019/Decreto/D9787.htm   
 
https://www.cascione.com.br/ president -
jair-bolsonaro -delegates -decision -making -
to-the-ministry -of-economy -concerning -
foreign -companies  
 Effective 8 May 2019  YES 
China  
On 20 July 2019, the Office of the Financial 
Stability and Development Committee under the 
State Council announced 11 measures aimed at 
accelerating the opening -up of the country 's 
financial sector:  
- 1) Foreign -funded institutions will be permitted 
to conduct credit rating business on all types of 
bonds in China 's inter -bank and exchange bond 
markets;  
- 2) Overseas financial institutions will be 
encouraged to participate in the establishment of, 
and equity investment in, asset and wealth 
management subsidiaries of commercial banks;  Mode 3  Financial services  Measures to further open up the financial 
sector  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.pbc.gov.cn/en/3688110/36881
72/3863256/index.html  20 July 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 208 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
- 3) Overseas asset management institutions will 
be permitted to co -establ ish foreign -controlled 
asset management companies together with 
subsidiaries of Chinese banks or insurers;  
- 4) Overseas financial institutions will be 
permitted to invest in the establishment of or 
make equity investment in pension management 
companies;  
- 5) Foreign capital will be supported in wholly -
owned currency brokerage establishment and 
equity participation.  
- 6) The transitional period for raising the foreign 
ownership cap on life insurers from 51% to 100% 
will be brought forward to 2020 from 2021 . 
- 7) The requirement that the total share of an 
insurance asset management company held by 
domestic insurers be no less than 75% will be 
removed, and foreign ownership will be permitted 
to exceed 25%;  
- 8) Entry conditions of foreign insurers will be 
eased by removing the requirement of over -30-
year operation;  
- 9) The removal of foreign ownership limits on 
securities, fund management and futures 
companies will be advanced by one year to 2020;  
- 10) Foreign institutions will be permitted to 
obtain Type -A lead underwriting licenses in the 
inter-bank bond market;  
- 11) China will further facilitate the investments 
of overseas institutions in the inter -bank bond 
market.  
 
Egypt  
The Board of Directors of the Central Bank of 
Egypt issued a new set of prudential regulations, 
including on the protection of the rights of bank 
customers.  Mode 3  Financial services  Circulars of the Central Bank of Egypt, 
dated 19 and 26 February 2019 . 
Viewed  at: 
https://www.cbe.org.eg/en/BankingSupervi
sion/Pages/Circulars.aspx  
 
 February 2019  YES 
Ethiopia ( Observer)  
The parliament adopted a measure allowing 
members of the Ethiopian diaspora, who have 
taken up nationalities in other countries, to invest 
and buy shares in banks, and to set up lending Mode 3  Banking services  Viewed at:  
https://qz.com/africa/1684528/ethiopia -
opens -financial -sector -investments -to-Adopted on 31 July 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 209 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
businesses in the country. Ethiopia's banking 
sector is otherwise clos ed to foreign investment.  
  diaspora/  
Georgia  
Georgia adopted a series of new measures in 
relation to financial services:  
- Amendments to the Order 'On the Approval of 
the rule for registration,  cancellation of 
registration and regulation of the activities of the 
Loan Issuing  Entity in the National Bank of 
Georgia;  
- Amendments to the Order on the 'Procedures 
and Terms for Registration of Microfinance  
Organizations in the National Bank of Georgia;  
- Amendments to the Order on 'Rules for 
Registration and Regulation of Currency Exchange 
Bureaus;  
- Rules for regulating the specialized depository of 
accumulated pension  scheme.  
 Mode 3  Financial services  Viewed at:  
https://www.nbg.gov.ge/index.php?m=2&ln
g=eng  October 2018 – January 
2019  
Hong Kong, China  
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has, by early 
May 2019, granted eight virtual banking licences 
under which virtual banks can deliver retail 
banking services through the Internet or other 
forms of electronic channels instead of physical 
branches. These new ly licensed virtual banks 
intend to launch their services in around 6 to 9 
months.  
 Mode 3  Banking services  Press release issued by the Hong Kong 
Monetary Authority  
Viewed at:  
https://www.hkma.gov.hk/eng/key -
information/press -
releases/2019/2 0190509 -3.shtm   9 May 2019  YES 
India  
As part of the Union Budget 2019 -20, India 
announced, on 5 July 2019 , that 100% foreign 
direct investment will be permitted for insurance 
intermediaries, up from the previous 49% limit. 
Further, the net owned fund requirement for 
foreign reinsurers wishing to open branches in the 
International Financial Services Centre will  be 
reduced from 5,000  crore (roughly USD 709.2 
million) to 1,000  crore (roughly USD 141.8  
million). The latter was implemented through an 
amendment to the Insurance Act 1938, the 
notification of Finance (No.  2) Act, 2019.  
 Mode 3  Insurance services  Union Budget 2019 -2020 
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/keytoBudD
oc.php  
 
https:// www.reinsurancene.ws/indian -gov-
lowers -capital -requirements -for-foreign -
reinsurers  
 5 July 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 210 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
The Reserve Bank of India announced that all 
system providers shall ensure that,  within a 
period of six months,  the entire data relating to 
payment systems operated by them are stored in 
a system only in India.  This data should include 
the full end -to-end transaction details , 
information collected , carried and p rocessed as 
part of the message  and payment instruction. For 
the foreign leg of the transac tion, if any, the data 
can also be stored in the foreign country, if 
required.  
  
There is no bar on processing of payment 
transactions outside India if so desired by the 
Payment System Operators authorised by the 
Reserve Bank of India. In case the processing is 
done abroad, the data should be deleted from the 
systems abroad and brought  back to India not 
later than one business day or 24 hours from 
payment processing, whichever is earlier. The 
same should be stored only in India. However, 
any subsequent activity such as settlement 
processing after payment processing, if done 
outside Indi a, shall also be undertaken and 
performed on a near real time basis. In case of 
any other related processing activity, such as 
chargeback, the data can be accessed, at any 
time, from India where it is stored.  
 Modes 1 -3  Financial services  Viewed at:  
https://m.rbi.org.in/Scripts/FAQView.aspx?I
d=130  26 June 2019  YES 
The Insurance Regulatory and Development 
Authority of India issued new regulations on 
reinsurance. The measure provides that 
reinsurance can be taken with foreign reinsurers 
after placement of obligatory cessions with the 
Indian reinsurer and utilization of domestic 
capacity by the cedants by following order of 
preference.  
 Multiple 
modes Reinsurance 
services  Insurance Regulator y and Development 
Authority of India (Re -insurance) 
Regulations  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.mondaq.com/india/x/768474/R
einsurance/IRDAI+unveils+New+Reinsuran
ce+Regulations+in+India  Effective 1 January 2019  
 YES 
Kuwait  
The government issued a decree allowing foreign 
investors to own up to 5% of a Kuwaiti bank's 
capital. Foreign ownership beyond this level would 
require the approval of the Central Bank.  Mode 3  Banking services  Decree No. 694/2018  
Viewed at:  
https://www.thenational.ae/business/banki
ng/kuwait -lifts-restrictions -on-foreign -
ownership -of-local-lenders -1.803010  
 Effective 15 Decemb er 2018    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 211 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Macao, China  
To foster the development of the financial leasing 
industry, the government adopted th e Legal 
Regime of Financial Leasing Companies, with the 
aim of providing better development potential for 
the sector and ensuring financial stability as the 
prerequisite. Under the revised regime, financial 
leasing companies, which are not allowed to 
engag e in deposit taking activities, will be 
authorized as financial institutions rather than 
credit institutions. Certain existing supervisory 
requirements, such as capital adequacy ratio and 
exposure limits, will not be applicable to financial 
leasing compani es.  
 Mode 3  Banking and other 
financial services  Legal Regime of Financial Leasing 
Companies – Law No. 6/2019  
 
Viewed at:  
WTO document S/C/N/946 
https://images.io.gov.mo/bo/i/2019/14/lei -
6-2019.pdf  
 Effective 9 April 2019  YES 
Myanmar  
On 29 January 2019, the Central Bank of 
Myanmar issued a notice confirming that foreign 
banks and foreign financial institutions may hold 
up to 35% of equity investment in local private 
banks.  Mode 3  Banking and  other 
financial services  Viewed at:  
http://www.shlegal.com/news/cbm -letter -
confirms -foreign -banks -may-hold-35-
equity -in-myanmar -banks  
https://asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Myanmar -
lets-foreign-banks -buy-into-local-peers  
 Effective 29 January 2019   
Branches of foreign banks are allowed to provide 
commercial services, such as financing and other 
banking services, to local businesses. The new 
measure comes after the Central Bank of 
Myanmar allowed foreign banks to provide export 
financing. Before the recent announcement, 
foreign banks were limited to lending only to 
foreign entities in foreign currencies.  
 Mode 3  Banking services  Viewed at:  
http://www.thaibizmyanmar.com/en/news/
detail.php?ID=1689  Effective November 2018   
In January, the Ministry of Planning and Finance 
(MOPF) issued Announcement 1/2019 allowing the 
establishment of foreign insurance companies. 
Prior to that, foreign insurers were restricted to 
establishing a representative office in Myanmar 
and had been la rgely barred from conducting any 
insurance businesses within the country, with 
limited exceptions in a special economic zone.  
With the new measure, up to three licences will be 
granted to foreign life insurers as 100% wholly -
owned subsidiaries. In additio n, foreign life and 
non-life insurers having a representative office in 
Myanmar (as of 31 December 2018) may form a Mode 3  Insurance  Ministry of Planning and Finance 
announcement No . 1/2019  
Viewed at:  
https://www.mayerbrown.com/ -
/media/files/perspectives -
events/publications/2019/02/190218 -
myanmar -corpsec.pdf  
http://learn.asialawnetwork.com/2019/02/0
6/myanmar -legal-alert-rfp-eois-foreign -
insurance -issued -frd Effective January 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 212 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
joint venture with a local insurer, with maximum 
foreign equity of 35%.  
 
Norway  
In accordance with the EEA Agreement, Norway 
has implemented the following EU directives:  
- Bank recovery and resolution directive (1 
January 2019) ;  
- Deposit Guarantee Scheme directive (1 January 
2019) ; 
- Payment Services Directive  (PSD2) (1 April 
2019) ; 
- 4th Anti Money Laundering Directive (15 October 
2018) ; 
- Markets in financial instruments directive (MiFID 
II) and Markets in financial instruments regulation 
(MiFIR) (1 January 2019).  Multiple  
modes  Financial services  Directive 2014/59/EU establishing a 
framework for the recovery and resolution 
of credit institutions and investment firms; 
Directive 2014/49/EU on deposit guarantee 
schemes ;  
Directive (EU) 2015/2366 on payment 
services in the internal market;  
Directive (EU) 2015/849 on the prevention 
of the use of the financial system for the 
purposes of money laundering or terrorist 
financing;  
Directive 2014/65/EU on markets in 
financial instruments;  
Regulation (EU) No  600/2014 on markets in 
financial instruments  
Viewed at:  
https://www.regjeringen.no/en/dep/fin/id21
6 
 October 2018 – April 2019  YES 
Philippines  
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas  (Central Bank of 
the Philippines) adopted a series of new measures 
affecting banking and other financial services. 
These relate, for example, to liberalized foreign 
exchange rules on inward and outward 
investments, hedging instruments for foreign 
exchange , regulatory relief to institutions affected 
by calamities, qualification requirements for 
marketing personnel in unit investment trust 
funds ( UITF), standards in Other Fiduciary 
Accounts (TOFA) and Investment Management 
Accounts ( IMA), mark to market of financial 
instruments, reporting requirements for 
supervised entities, combating terrorism 
financing, computation of required capital for 
domestic and foreign banks, implementing BASEL 
III and reporting requirements with respect to 
cyber -security  incidents and technology risks.  
 Mode 3  Banking and other 
financial services  Circulars Nos. 1014, 1015, 1017 -1025, 
1027, 1029 -35, 1037  
Viewed at:  
http://www.bsp.gov.ph  September 2018 – March 
2019 YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 213 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
The Central Bank of the Philippines  (Bangko 
Sentral ng Pilipinas  (BSP)) adopted a series of 
new measures affecting banking and other 
financial services. Among changes, a new 
measure allows foreigners to become members of 
the board of directions of BSP -supervis ed financial 
institutions (BSFI). Other measures relate, for 
example, to the process for selection of external 
auditors for BSFIs, modifications to regulations for 
reserve requirements, guidelines for managing 
interest rate risk, amendments to regulations on 
financial consumer protection, and rules for the 
registration of operators of payment systems.  
 Mode 3  Banking and other 
financial services  Circulars Nos. 1038 -1044, 1048, 1049  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.bsp.gov.ph  May – October 2019  YES 
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
The Board of the Capital Market Authority of Sau di 
Arabia adopted a series of resolutions amending 
the following measures:  
- the Rules for Qualified Foreign Financial 
Institutions Investment in Listed Securities  
resolution regarding the procedures;  
- the Guidance Note for the investment of Non -
Residen t Foreigners in the Parallel Market;  
- the Corporate Governance Regulation;  
- the Regulatory Rules and Procedures issued 
pursuant to the Companies Law relating to Listed 
Joint Stock Companies;  
- the Guidance Note to the Regulatory Rules and 
Procedures iss ued pursuant to the Companies Law 
relating to Listed Joint Stock Companies.  
 Mode 3  Financial services  Viewed at:  
https://cma.org.sa/en/RulesRegulations/Re
gulations/Documents/QFI_18_en.pdf  
 
https://cma.org.sa/en/RulesRegulations/Re
gulations/Documents/QFI_PM_en.pdf  
 
https://cma.org.sa/en/RulesRegulations/Re
gulations/Documents/CGRegulations_en.pdf  
 
https://cma.org.sa/en/RulesRegulations/Re
gulations/Documents/LJSCRulesEn.pdf  
 
https://cma.org.sa/en/RulesRegulations/Re
gulations/Documents/Guidance%20LJSC%2
0En.pdf  
 Effective May -June 2019  YES 
The Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) 
promulgated new rules allowing the establishment 
of foreign insurance and reinsurance companies as 
branches. The new rules clarify application of the 
Cooperative Insurance Control Law and its 
implementing regulations to foreign branches. 
Foreign insurance entities can now operate in the 
kingdom through branches or in the form of a 
locally incorporated public joint -stock company.  
 Mode 3  Insurance and 
reinsurance  Viewed at:  
http://www.sama.gov.sa/en -
US/Laws/Pages/InsuranceRulesAndRegulati
on.aspx  Effective December 2018  YES 
Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority Board of 
Commissioners (CMABC) adopted a series of new 
measures in relation to financial services:  
- a resolution regarding the procedures and Mode 3  Financial services  Viewed at:  
https://cma.org.sa/en/Market/News/pages/
CMA_N_2554.aspx   Effective October 2018 – 
April 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 214 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
requirements relating to the issuer whose 
securities are listed on the Exchange when 
applying for court for commencing a f inancial 
restructuring procedure in accordance with the 
Bankruptcy Law ; 
- rules for Registering the Auditors of Entities 
Subject to the Authority's Supervision;  
- amendments to the Investment Account 
Instructions;  
- amendments to the Real Estate Investment  
Traded Funds Instructions;  
- the Closed -Ended Investment Traded Funds 
Instructions.  https: //cma.org.sa/en/RulesRegulations/Re
gulations/Documents/Rules -Registering -
Auditors -of-Entities -EN.pdf  
https://cma.org.sa/en/RulesRegulations/Re
gulations/Documents/InvestmentAccountsIn
structionsEN.pdf  
https://cma.org.sa/en/RulesRegulations/Re
gulations/Documents/REITF%20Instructions
%20en.pdf  
https://cma.org.sa/en/RulesRegulations/Re
gulations/Documents/Closed -Ended -Traded -
Investment -Funds -Instructions -English.pdf  
Singapore  
On 29 August, the Monetary Authority of 
Singapore (MAS) started accepting applications 
for new digital bank licences. Interested parties 
have until 31 December 2019 to submit their 
applications. This follows the announcement in 
June 2019 that the MAS will issue up to two digital 
full bank licenc es and three digital wholesale bank 
licences.  
 
The application for digital full bank licences is 
open to companies that are anchored in 
Singapore, headquartered in Singapore and 
controlled by Singaporeans. Foreign companies 
are eligible for these full bank licences if they form 
a joint venture with a Singapore company, and 
the joint venture meets the preceding  
requirements. Application for digital wh olesale 
bank licences is open to all companies.  
 Mode 3  Banking services  Viewed at:  
https://www.mas.gov.sg/news/media -
releases/2019/mas -invites -applications -for-
new-digital -bank-licences  
 
https://www.mas.gov.sg/news/media -
releases/2019/mas -to-issue-up-to-five-
digital -bank-licences  
 29 August 2019  YES 
Switzerland  
The new measures seek to promote innovation in 
the financial sector and to eliminate obstacles that 
prevent enterprises – in particular those active in 
the area of financial technology (fintech) – from 
entering the market. Enterprises that apply a 
fintech -related business model and that operate 
outside the main field of activity of banks may 
accept, on a professional basis, deposits from the 
public of up to CHF  100 million (new authorization 
category).  Mode 3  Banking services  Amendment to the Banking Law of  
8 November 1934 (RS 952.0)  
Amendment to the Banking Ordinance of 30 
April 2014 (RS 952.02)  
 
Viewed at:  
WTO document S/C/N/922  
https:// www.admin.ch/opc/fr/classified -
compilation/19340083/index.html  
 Effective 1 January 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 215 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
 https://www.admin.ch/opc/fr/classified -
compilation/20131795/index.html  
 
Chinese Taipei  
Foreign futures brokerage merchants (FCM)  may 
directly provide trade, clearing and settlement 
services of futures to domestic FCMs, and are no 
longer required to establish a branch or subsidiary 
in Chinese Taipei.  
 Mode 1  Financial services  Article 38.1.4 of the Regulations Governing 
Futures Commission Merchants  Effective 1  July 2019  YES 
Tanzania  
On 21 June 2019, Tanzania introduced new 
regulations on foreign exchange bureaux. It 
allows foreign exchange bureaux to obtain a 
licence, but they must meet the new minimum 
capital requirement of TSh 1 billion (compared to 
the previous TSh 300 million). Th e bureaux are 
also required to maintain a minimum working 
capital that is equivalent to 75% of paid -up 
capital. Further, bureaux must submit a detailed 
feasibility study in the location where they plan to 
set up shop in order to show potential demand.  
 Mode 3 Money broking, 
trading in foreign 
exchange  Foreign Exchange (Bureau de Change) 
Regulations, 2019  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.bot.go.tz/BankingSupervision/
BDC%20REGULATIO NS%202019.pdf  
 
https://www.bot.go.tz/Adverts/PressReleas
e/NOTICE%20TO%20THE%20PUBLIC -
REVISED%20 -%20BDC.pdf  
 Effective 21 June 2019   
Ukraine  
A new measure was adopted to liberalize the 
currency regulation system,  simplify the currency 
control system, and gradually eliminate existing 
currency restrictions.  
 Multiple 
modes  Banking and other 
financial services  Law No. 2473 -VIII of 21 June 2018 Effective 7 February 2019  YES 
BUSINESS SERVICES  
China  
The Regulations on Administration of  Foreign -
invested Construction and Engineering Design 
Enterprises and related implementing rules have 
been annulled . Applications from foreign -invested 
enterprises for engineering design qualifications 
shall be accepted and examined in accordance 
with the principle of equal treatment for domestic 
and foreign -invested enterprises.  
 Mode 3  Construction 
designing services; 
Engineering 
services  Information provided by the government  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.mohurd.gov.cn/fgjs/jsbgz/2018
11/t20181122_238493.html  
 
http://www.mohurd.gov.cn/wjfb/201812/t2
0181221_238955.html  
 Effective  31 October 2018  YES 
Ghana  
As part of regulations requiring local content and 
participation, companies in the mining sector are 
required, as of 1 January 2019, to procure 
security services from companies located in Ghana Mode 3  Security services  Viewe d at: 
https://allafrica.com/stories/201812060268
.html  Effective 1 January 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 216 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
and fully owned by nationals.  
 
India  
On 28 August 2019, the government clarified that 
100% FDI was allowed for contract manufacturing 
under the automatic route.  Mode 3  Services incidental 
to manufacturing  
 
 Press Note no. 4 of 2019, notifying 
amendments to the Consolidated Foreign 
Direct Investment Policy  
 
Viewed at:  
https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.asp
x?relid=193277  
 Effective from the date of 
FEMA notification  YES 
Indonesia  
The Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board 
(BKPM) enacted a new regulation that modifies 
the minimum amount of investment for foreign 
investors in certain real estate companies. The 
previous minimum amount of IDR 10 billion 
remains, but no longer include s the value of land 
and building.   
 Mode 3  Real estate 
services  BKPM Regulation No. 5/2019  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.bakermckenzie.com/en/ins ight
/publications/2019/08/bkpm -amends -
business -lines-regulation  
 Effective August 2019   
DISTRIBUTION SERVICES / POSTAL AND COURIER  SERVICES  
Argentina  
The government established a new regime for 
'door-to-door' deliveries through the postal 
system of products purchased online from 
abroad. A maximum of 12 orders per year of 50 
dollars or less will be exempt from customs 
duties. Previously, only yearly purchases below 
25 dollars were exempted.  
 Modes 1 -3 Postal and 
distribution 
services  Decree No. 221/2019  
General Resolution No. 4447/2019  
Viewed at:  
https://www.llyasoc.com/es/novedades/co
mercio -exterior -regimen -de-envios -
postales -sin-finalidad -comercial  Effective 1 April 2019  YES 
Chile  
A new measure establishes a maximum amount 
of 3000 USD (free on board) for the import and 
export of merchandise that can be processed by 
express delivery service suppliers, without the 
need to go through customs agents. The previous 
maximum amount was of 1000 USD for imports 
and 2000 USD for exports.  
 Mode 1  Postal and courier 
services  Decreto Supremo No. 9 of the Ministry of 
Finance  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.diarioestrategia.cl/texto -
diario/mostrar/1355296/hacienda -
aumenta -us-3000-monto -maximo -
despachos -empresas-envio -rapido  
 Issued on 12 March 2019   
India  
The government relaxed the local sourcing rules 
applying to foreign -invested suppliers of single 
brand retail trade services. Foreign invested 
companies are now allowed to conduct online Mode 3  Retailing services  Press Note no. 4 of 2019, notifying 
amendments to the Consolidated Foreign 
Direct Investment Policy  
 Effective from the date of 
FEMA notification  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 217 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
retail trade prior to the opening of physical 
stores, subject to the condition that the latter are 
established no lat er than two years after the start 
of online operations.  
 
The new measure also modifies the 30% local 
sourcing rule for companies with more than 51% 
foreign ownership. For instance, all procurement 
made from India by single brand retailers will now 
be coun ted towards local sourcing, irrespective 
whether the goods are sold in India or exported.  
 Viewed at:  
https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.asp
x?relid=193277  
 
EDUCATION SERVICES  
Viet Nam  
On 1 February 2019, the Vietnamese Government 
introduced regulations specifying conditions on 
the establishment of foreign -invested vocational 
training institutions in Viet  Nam. The new 
measure follows up on a 2014 law had allowed 
foreign investment in the sector.  
Conditions include minimum  establishment size, 
minimum capital requirements, and training 
curriculum. To set up a branch or new campus of 
a foreign -invested secondary vocational school 
and college, the investor would be required to 
provide a detailed development plan explaining 
the need for such an establishment.  
 Mode 3  Education  services  Decree No.15/2019/ND -CP 
Viewed at:  
http://vietnamlawmagazine.vn/new -decree -
specifies -foreign -investment -in-vocational -
education -16673.html  Effective 20 March 2019   
ENERGY -RELATED SERVICES  
Singapore  
Singapore's Energy Market Authority (EMA) 
opened up more segments of the retail electricity 
market for competition from both foreign and 
domestic retailers, thereby providing consumers 
with a wider choice of a price plans.  Mode 3  Electricity services  Implementation of the Open Electricity 
Market (OEM)  
Viewed at:  
https://www.ema.gov.sg/Electricity_Market
_Liberalisation.aspx  
 Effective 1 November 2018   
HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES  
China  
The National Health Commission (NHC) released a 
circular on standards and security of Big Data in 
the healthcare industry, which requires that such 
data be stored in China. Where such data must be 
transferred abroad for business reasons, a 
security assessm ent must be carried out in Modes 1 -3 Health -related 
services  Circular regarding Issuing National Health 
Medical Big Data Standards, Safety and 
Service Management Measures (For Trial 
Implementation)  
 Effective  13 September 
2018 YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 218 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
accordance with the relevant laws and 
regulations.  Viewed  at: 
http://www.cms -
lawnow.com/ealerts/2018/09/china -
monthly -tmt-update -september -
2018?cc_lang=en  
 
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
The government adopted new measures enabling 
100% foreign ownership, operation and 
management of private healthcare institutions 
(PHI), with the exception of clinics. PHIs cover 
general and specialised health centres, radiology, 
medical laboratories, outpa tient surgical facilities 
and supporting medial services facilities. Prior to 
this amendment, foreign ownership of PHIs was 
limited to hospitals with a m inimum number of 
beds, and depending on the area served.  
 Mode 3  Health -related 
services  Royal Decree amending the Private 
Healthcare Institutions Law   
Viewed at:  
http://www.elexica.com/en/legal -
topics/corporate -governance -and-
compliance/280119 -foreign -investmen t-
relaxation -in-the-saudi-healthcare -sector  Effective  2 November 2018  YES 
Serbia (Observer)  
On 3 April 2019, the Serbian Parliament adopted 
the Law on Healthcare. The new measure aims to 
improve the legal framework and facilitate better 
functioning of the healthcare system in Serbia, 
aligning it more closely to EU standards in this 
field. Healthcare institutions can now be founded 
as public -private pa rtnership projects. The new 
law also relaxes rules on advertising, allowing 
public and private institutions to advertise 
healthcare services, expert -medical procedures, 
and methods of healthcare protection.  
 Modes 3  Health -related 
services  Law on Healthcar e  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.karanovicpartners.com/news/t
he-new-law-on-healthcare -protection -in-
serbia  
 
 Effective 11 April 2019  YES 
United Arab Emirates  
A new law regulates the use of information 
technology and communications (ITC) in the 
healthcare sector. It notably prohibits the storage 
of health data outside of the UAE, as well as the 
creation of health data outside of the UAE which 
relates to health s ervices provided inside the UAE. 
The Law foresees certain exceptions to data 
localization requirements, but further information 
is to be set out in subsequent ministerial 
resolutions or in implementing regulations.  
 Modes 1 -3 Health -related 
services  Feder al Law No. 2 of 2019 on Information 
and Communication Technology in the 
Health Field   
Viewed at:  
https://www.dha.gov.ae/en/HealthRegulatio
n/Pages/FederalLaws.aspx  Effective 14 May 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 219 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
RECREATIONAL SERVICES  
Australia  
Commonwealth, state and territory governments 
have formally agreed to a National Consumer 
Protection Framework for online wagering in 
Australia, comprising of 10 consumer protection 
measures which aim to reduce the harm of online 
wagering to consumers. This includes:  
- a prohibition on onl ine wagering service 
providers providing lines of credit;  
- a prohibition of links between online wagering 
service providers payday lenders;  
- a restriction on online wagering service 
providers offering specified inducements;  
- other consumer protection me asures such as a 
National Self -Exclusion Register and pre 
commitment (limit setting).  
 Modes 1 -3 Gambling services  National Consumer Protection Framework 
for Online Wagering in Australia – National 
Policy Statement (comprising various 
legislation at the Co mmonwealth and state 
and territory levels).  Commonwealth, state and 
territory governments will 
implement the suite of 
measures within the 
National Framework 
progressively over 18 
months, beginning from 26 
November 2018.  
Some measures (prohibition 
of lines  of credit, 
discouraging links to payday 
lenders and a 14 -day 
customer verification 
time-frame) are already 
effective.  YES 
Myanmar  
The government adopted a new law allowing 
casinos to operate for foreigners in selected 
hotels. Previously, casinos were not permitted 
under Myanmar law. Nationals will not be able to 
gamble under the new rules.  Mode 3  Gambling services  2018 Gambling Law  
Viewed at:  
https://www.casino.org/news/after -years -
of-isolation -myanmar -will-legalize -casinos -
next-month -in-bid-reinvent -itself-as-tourist -
hotspot  
 Effective May 2019   
Switzerland  
A new measure permits licensed casinos 
established in the country to offer online gaming 
services. Unlicensed operators, including foreign -
based suppliers, will be blocked by Internet access 
providers.  
The Act also establishes licensing requirements, 
including that owners have 'good rep utation' and 
have not actively targeted the Swiss market from 
abroad in the five previous years. Unlicensed sites 
will be blocked as of 1 July 2019.  
 Modes 1 -3 Gambling services  Federal Gambling Act  
Viewed at:  
https://www.mme.ch/en/magazine/magazin
e-
detail/url_magazine/swiss_voters_approve_
new_money_gaming_act  Effective 1 January 2019  YES 
TOURISM  AND TRAVEL RELATED SERVICES  
Bangladesh  
The Central Bank of Bangladesh adopted a 
number of measures easing foreign exchange 
limits in relation to the tourism services sector. 
Among the changes, the private travel Mode 2  Tourism services  S.P.A. Circular No 1 of 19 June 2019  
 
FE Circular Letter No. 15  of 26 June 2019  
 June-July 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 220 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
entitlement in foreign exchange for an adult 
Bangladeshi national resid ing in Bangladesh was  
increased to USD 12,000 per calendar year . 
Previously, the entitlement was of USD 5,000 for 
travel to SAARC member countries and Myanmar 
and USD 7,000  for travel to other countries.  
 FE Circular Letter No. 30 of  25 July 2019  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.bb.org.bd/index.php  
Seychelles  
On 22 August 2019, the President signed the 
Tourism Development Act, which sets out a new 
legal framework for tourism activities. Among 
other things, the aims to establish a code of 
practice and standards for tourism enterprises and 
to oversee the quality of services provided by  
suppliers.  
 Mode 3  Tourism services  Tourism Development Act 2019  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.nation.sc/articles/1293/preside
nt-faure-signs-tourism -development -act-
2019--a-major -milestone -for-effective -
development -of-this-important -industry -
says-minister -dogley  
 Effective 22 August 2019   
TRANSPORT SERVICES  
Argentina  
Argentina simplified the regime for obtaining the 
coastal traffic waivers which allow foreign vessels 
to carry out commercial activities in the Argentine 
sea in the event that no Argentine vessels are 
available to perform such activities.  
 
The new issuance regime consists of the following 
elements:  
- applicants must submit their applications forms 
by means of the Federal Revenue Agency on -line 
portal;  
- all requests shall be published (for a 48 -hour 
term) on the public website "argentina.gob.ar". A 
notice will be sent to interested parties from the 
e-mail account of the enforcement agency;  
- if within 48 hours there are no reasonable 
oppositions from local ship owners having 
Argentine vessels in conditions of rendering the 
same  service, a waiver will be issued within the 
term of five days;  
- waivers will be valid for a 6 -month term. A 15 -
day extension may be granted should there be 
valid reasons to do so;  
- waivers may be unlimitedly reissued upon 
expiration.  
 Modes 1 
and 3  Maritime transport  Resolution No. 870/2018 of the Federal 
Ministry of Transportation   
Viewed at:  
https://www.argentina.gob.ar/normativa/na
cional/resoluci%C3%B 3n-870-2018-
314849/texto  Effective 2 October 2018  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 221 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Brazil  
The President signed a temporary decree lifting 
the 20% limit on foreign investment in Brazilian 
airlines and allowing full foreign capital 
participation.  Mode 3  Air transport 
services  Temporary Decree  
Viewed at:  
https://www.reuters.com/article/brazil -
airlines/brazil -allows -100-pct-foreign -
investment -in-domestic -airlines -decree -
idUSS0N1XG00Y  
 13 December 2018  YES 
China  
Foreign investors can now invest in and operate 
international shipping transportation, international 
shipping agency, international shipping 
management, international shipping cargo 
handling, international shipping cargo 
warehousing, international shipping  container 
station and yard business in accordance with 
relevant laws, administrative regulations and 
other relevant regulations.  
 Mode 3  Maritime  transport 
services  Regulations on International Maritime 
Transportation (Amended for the third time 
accordin g to the State Council Order No. 
709 of 2 March 2019 by the Decision of the 
State Council on Amending Certain 
Administrative Regulations).  Effective 2 March 2019  YES 
Ethiopia (Observer)  
Ethiopia's Investment Board decided to permit 
foreign investment up to 49% in the logistics 
industry through joint ventures. Prior to the 
decision, the sector was exclusively reserved to 
nationals.  Mode 3  Logistics services  Decision of the Investment Boar d, lifting 
restrictions imposed under Article 3.1(b) of 
Investment Regulation No. 270/2012  
Viewed at:  
http://addisstandard.com/breaking -
ethiopian -investment -board -lifts-
restrictions -on-logistics -industry -reserved -
exclusively -for-ethiopians -opens -sector -for-
joint-venture  
 4 September 2018   
European Union  
From 24 March 2019, the European Union 
Regulation 2017/352 is being implemented in 
each Member State. It establishes a framework 
for the provision of port services and common 
rules on the financial transparency of port 
services and port infrastructure charges. The 
Regul ation contains disciplines on:  
- transparency, objectiveness, non -discrimination, 
proportionality for access to the market for the 
provision of port services in maritime ports, which 
may be subject to minimum requirements for the 
provision of port services ;  
- limitations on the number of providers;  Mode 3  Port services  Regulation 2017/352  
 
Viewed at:  
https://eur -lex.europa.eu/legal -
content/EN/TXT/? uri=CELEX%3A32017R03
52 
 Effective 24 March 2019  YES  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 222 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
- public service obligations; and  
- restrictions related to internal operators.  
 
The terms of access to the facilities, installations 
and equipment of the port are also required to be 
fair, reasonable and non -discriminatory. Similar 
disciplines are imposed on port charges.  
 
The European Union adopted a harmonised 
European Maritime Single Window  environment 
that brings together all reporting obligations 
associated with a port call, including customs 
procedures for entry and exit of goods. The new 
measure aims to facilitate trade by cutting the 
time spent by the shipping sector for reporting 
and to enhance safety by relieving crews of 
burdensome tasks during critical operations.  
 Modes 1 
and 3  Maritime  transport 
services  Regulation (EU) 2019/1239 of the European 
Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 
2019 establishing a European Maritime 
Single W indow environment and repealing 
Directive 2010/65/EU  
 
Viewed at:  
https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/docu
ment/PE -38-2019-INIT/en/pdf  
 Published in the Official 
Journal on  20 June 2019 YES 
Tanzania  
On 27 June 2019, the Tanzania Parliament 
adopted a new measure that ex pands the 
exclusivity of the mandate of t he Tanzania 
Shipping Agencies Corporation ( "TASAC "). TASAC 
was established in 2017 as a maritime authority 
to regulate ports, shipping services, maritime 
environment, safety and security and maritime 
transport services at sea ports in Tanzania.  
 
Through the new measure, TASAC's exclusive 
rights to mandate t o implement clearing and 
forwarding functions was extended to cover the 
import and export of fertilizers, industrial sugar, 
domestic sugar, edible cooking oil, wheat, oil 
products, gas, liquified gas and chemicals or any 
other liquid related products.  
 
Exclusivity also ex pands to cover an array of 
shipping agency functions in relation to a broad 
collection of goods, including tanker ships and 
pure car carrier vessels, minerals, mineral 
concentrates and any equipment related to 
minerals and petroleum. The A ct also reserves 
the right for the Minister of Maritime Transport to 
add further goods to the list.  
 
 Mode 3  Customs clearing 
and freight 
forwarding services  Amendments to the 2017 Tanzania 
Shipping Agencies Act (2017 Act)  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.mcdgc.go.tz/data/THE_WRITTE
N_LAWS_MISCELLENEOUS_NO.3_ACT_OF_
2019__.pdf  27 June 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 223 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
In addition, the measure provides that licences 
for shipping agencies cannot be issued if the 
applicant or its shareholder is ship owner, ship 
operator, ship charterer, dry port operator or 
clearing and forwarding agent.  
 
SERVICES SUPPLIED THROUGH THE MOVEMENT OF NATURAL PERSONS  
Angola  
The immigration authority in Angola replaced the 
Ordinary Visa with the Tourism Visa for business 
visitors. The Tourisms Visa is issued for 120 days, 
allows multiple entries and may be extended 
twice for 30 days, whereas the Ordinary Visa was 
issued for 90 days. An online portal for foreign 
nationals to submit Tourism Visa applications has 
also been opened, removing the need to apply at 
an Angolan consular post prior to travel.  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at: 
http://www.mondaq.com/x/841690/work+
visas/Online+Portal+For+Tourism+Visa+Ap
plications+Now+Open  
 Effective 23 July 2019   
Canada  
Canada announced that the Global Talent Stream 
will become a permanent program. The program 
provides for a streamlined Labour Market Impact 
Assessment and expedited work permit processing 
for highly -skilled foreign workers in STEM -related 
professions (science, te chnology, engineering, 
math). It had originally been introduced in 2017 
as a two -year pilot as part of the Global Skills 
Strategy.  
  Mode 4  Various sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.immigration.ca/canada -to-
make -global -talent -stream -permanent  Effective April 2019  YES 
France  
New application requirements under the EU Intra -
Corporate Transferee (ICT) Permit require that 
foreign nationals be employed by their home 
employer for at least six months prior to the 
transfer to France, up from three months 
previously, and that they remain outside the 
European Union for at least six months before 
they can fill a new EU ICT application in France.  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed a t: 
https://bluemarblepayroll.com/new -
immigration -law-france -eases -visa-
requirements  Effective April 2019  YES 
Guatemala  
The "Business Visa" category has been eliminated, 
and business travellers can now enter Guatemala 
only to perform consulting and advisory activities 
under the category of "Tourist or Traveller". Their 
permitted duration of stay has been reduced to 90 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.fragomen.com/insights/alerts/i
mmigration -reforms -forthcoming  Effective 19 April 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 224 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
days,  with the possibility of extension for an 
additional 90 days, down from the current 180 
days with the possibility of a 180 -day extension. 
The validity of temporary residence permits has 
been extended to five years, up from the previous 
two years.  
 
India  
The government decided to increase the permitted 
duration of stay under the electronic Business Visa 
to 180 days, up from the previous 60 days. 
Multiple visits will be allowed in a calendar year 
(up from 3 times per calendar year). In addition, 
foreign nat ionals holding an employment visa will 
now be able to extend it for up to ten years, up 
from the previous five.  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.financialexpress.com/industry/
easier -e-visa-for-business -trip-to-india-
year-long-validity -longer -stay-and-more-
all-about -new-norms/1499169  February 2019   
Japan  
The Japan ese government  expanded the range of 
fields in which foreign students who have 
graduated from a Japan ese university or graduate 
school are able to find employment under the 
status of residence of "Designated Activities". 
Foreign students are granted the status of 
residence of "Designated Activities" under certain 
conditions, such as acquiring a high level of  
Japanese language skills, being a full -time 
employee, and receiving remuneration equivalent 
or superior to the remuneration that a Japanese 
national would receive for the same work.  
 Mode 4  Various sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2019/0
5/28/national/japan -open-job-fields-
foreign -graduates -
universities/#.XY45TOQ7bVg  
 
http://www.moj.go.jp/nyuukokukanri/kouh
ou/nyuukokukanri07_00210.html  
 Effective 30 May 2019  YES 
The Immigration Services Agency has introduced 
the following two new status of residence for 
acceptance of work -ready foreigners who possess 
certain expertise and skills in fields where labour 
shortages exist in Japan:  
 
- Status of residence of Specified Skilled Worker 
(i) – Based on the Basic Policy, this status of 
residence is applicable to foreigners who have 
successfully completed "Technical Intern Training 
(ii)" or who pass a qualifying test in 14 fields, 
many of which are service fields. The period of 
stay will be initially one year, six or four months 
and can be renewed for  a maximum of five years 
in total.  Mode 4  Various sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page3e_00
1006.html   Effective April 2019   YES 
  
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 225 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
- Status of residence of Specified Skilled Worker 
(ii) – This status of residence is applicable to 
foreigners who pass a higher -level qualifying test 
in two fields at the moment, including 
construction services. The perio d of stay will be 
initially three years, one year or six months and 
can be renewed without limitation.  
 
Oman  
Oman's Ministry of Manpower has extended the 
temporary ban on the recruitment of foreign 
nationals in a number of sectors. The ban was 
originally introduced early in 2018 and has now 
been extended twice.  
 Mode 4  Various sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.jdsupra.com/le galnews/the -
oman -update -official -gazette -1269-79650   Effective 30 November 2018   
Oman's Ministry of Manpower introduced a  ban on 
the recruitment of foreign nationals  to senior 
management positions in the private sector. It has 
also extended the suspension of the recruitment 
of foreign workers in 87 professions across 
various industries for another six months, starting 
5 August 2019.  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1496436/
business -economy   
 
http://bbgdubai.org/news/news -
details?id=1293  
 
 Effective May 2019  and 5 
August 2019   
Panama  
In Panama, several Executive Decrees were 
enacted that introduce the following changes:  
 
- The period of validity for work permits within the 
10% or 15% quotas  has been extended to two 
years (previously one year), renewable for two 
years each time (previously one year) ;  
 
- A formal requirement now provides that to apply 
for a work permit under the Marrakech 
Agreement, a company must employ a minimum 
of three Panamanian employees (previously, 
companies formally had to employ only one 
Panamanian empl oyee) . Marrakech Agreement 
work permits are for companies with fewer than 
ten employees ;  
 
- The Work Permit for Foreign Professionals will 
now be issued initially for two years (previously 
one year), renewable for three years (previously 
one year). In add ition, the application may now 
be submitted before the applicant 's residence is Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://blog.newlandchase.com/panama -
changes -to-residence -and-work-permit -
rules 
 Effective 28 May 2019    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 226 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
approved.  
 
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
Labour Market Tests are no longer required before 
a block visa request is submitted by employers 
seeking to hire foreign nationals.  Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.asp
x?g=ec3265e1 -7860-428e-af30-
988aab56d81b  
 Effective November 2018  YES 
United Arab Emirates  
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and 
Emiratization (MOHRE) expanded the labo ur 
market testing requirement  to companies of all 
sizes. Additionally, the MOHRE introduced an 
alternate labour market test that requires 
employers to schedule an Open Day appointment 
with the Emiratization Department where the 
employer interviews Emirati candidates for the 
open position. If the company cannot find a 
suitable Emirati candidate, it can extend a job 
offer to a foreign candidate , but must provide a 
justification for any rej ected candidates . 
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
http://bbgdubai.org/news/news -
details?id=1293  
 Effective 1 August 2019   
In February 2019, the UAE implemented a new 
system for long-term residence visas. The system 
enables persons with "specialised talents" and 
researchers in the fields of science and 
knowledge, such as doctors, specialists, scientists, 
inventors, as well as creative individuals in the 
field of culture and art, t o apply for a 10 -year visa 
to live and work in the UEA. The visa advantage 
extends to the spouse and children. All categories 
are required to have a valid employment contract 
in a specialized field of priority in the UAE.  
 Mode 4  Various sectors  Viewed at:  
https://government.ae/en/information -and-
services/visa -and-emirates -id/residence -
visa/long -term-residence -visas-in-the-uae Effective February 2019   
Viet Nam  
A new decree provides that the Ministry of Labour, 
Invalids and Social Affairs will process all work 
permit applications within five business days of 
submission, down from the previous two - to 
three-week processing time. Moreover, the decree 
stipulates that foreign nationals responsible for 
establishing a commercial presence in Viet Nam 
are now exempt from obtaining a work permit.  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Decree No. 140/2018/ND -CP 
Viewed at:  
https://www.bakermc kenzie.com/en/insight
/publications/2018/10/vietnams -official -
guidance -on-compulsory   Effective October 2018    
  WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 227 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Zambia  
Under a new law, foreign nationals seeking to 
work in Zambia may only apply for positions 
appearing in an official critical skills list. 
Employers are additionally required to designate a 
local worker to be trained by each foreign worker 
over a two -year period.  Mode 4  All sectors  Employment Code Act No. 3 of 2019  
 
Viewed at:   
https://www.fragomen.com/insights/alerts/
new-occupational -limitations -and-local-
worker-succession -plan-requirements -
introduced -work-authorization -applications  
 
 Effective 1 June 2019   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 228 - 
 
  APPENDIX 1 PARTICIPA TION  
Member/  
Observer  Replies to DG 
email  
(OV/W/13)  
(√ = replies 
received)  Replies to 
DG email 
(OV/22)  
(√ = replies 
received)  Annual 
overview  
(OV/22) – 
Replies to 
request for 
verification  
(√ = replies 
received)  New 
measures  
(√ = 
information 
sent)  Services  
(√ = 
information 
sent)  Summary  
and 
status  
(√ = 
information 
sent)  
1. Afghanistan  √ √     
2. Albania  √  √ √   
3. Algeriaa    √ √  
4. Angola   √  √ √  
5. Argentina  √ √ √ √  √ 
6. Armenia 
(EAEU)    √   
7. Australia  √ √ √ √  √ 
8. Azerbaijan   √     
9. Bahrain, 
Kingdom of 
(GCC)     √   
10. Bangladesh   √     
11. Belarus 
(EAEU)    √   
12. Botswana 
(SACU)     √   
13. Brazil  √ √ √ √ √ √ 
14. Burkina Faso     √   
15. Cambodia      √  
16. Canada  √ √ √ √  √ 
17. Chile √ √   √  
18. China  √ √ √ √ √ √ 
19. Colombia  √ √ √ √ √  
20. Costa Rica  √ √ √ √   
21. Cuba  √     
22. Dominican 
Republic  √ √  √   
23. Egypt   √ √ √ √  
24. El Salvador   √ √ √   
25. Eswatini 
(SACU)     √   
26. Ethiopia      √  
27. European 
Union  √ √ √ √ √ √ 
28. The Gambia  √      
29. Guatemala  √   √   
30. Guyana   √ √ √   
31. Hong Kong, 
China  √ √     
32. India √ √ √ √ √ √ 
33. Indonesia  √ √  √ √ √ 
34. Iraqa √ √  √   
35. Israel     √   
36. Japan  √ √ √ √ √ √ 
37. Jordan   √  √   
38. Kazakhstan 
(EAEU)  √  √   
39. Kenya   √     
40. Korea, 
Republic  of √ √ √ √  √ 
41. Kuwait, the 
State of 
(GCC)     √   
42. Kyrgyz 
Republic 
(EAEU)    √   
43. Lesotho 
(SACU)     √   
44. Macao, China   √ √  √  
45. Madagascar     √   
46. Malaysia     √   WT/TPR/OV/22  
 
- 229 - 
 
  Member/  
Observer  Replies to DG 
email  
(OV/W/13)  
(√ = replies 
received)  Replies to 
DG email 
(OV/22)  
(√ = replies 
received)  Annual 
overview  
(OV/22) – 
Replies to 
request for 
verification  
(√ = replies 
received)  New 
measures  
(√ = 
information 
sent)  Services  
(√ = 
information 
sent)  Summary  
and 
status  
(√ = 
information 
sent)  
47. Mauritius  √ √ √ √   
48. Mexico  √ √ √ √  √ 
49. Montenegro  √ √ √ √   
50. Morocco    √ √   
51. Myanmar  √      
52. Namibia 
(SACU)     √   
53. Nepal    √  √  
54. New Zealand  √ √ √ √   
55. Niger     √   
56. Nigeria     √   
57. Norway  √ √     
58. Oman (GCC)     √ √  
59. Panama   √  √ √  
60. Peru √      
61. Philippines  √ √ √ √ √  
62. Qatar (GCC)     √   
63. Russian 
Federation 
(EAEU)  √ √ √ √  √ 
64. Saint Vincent 
and the 
Grenadines   √     
65. Saudi Arabia, 
Kingdom of  
(GCC)  √ √ √ √ √ √ 
66. Senegal      √  
67. Serbiaa  √ √  √  
68. Seychelles  √ √   √  
69. Singapore  √  √  √  
70. South Africa 
(SACU)  √ √ √ √ √ √ 
71. Sri Lanka   √     
72. Switzerland  √ √ √ √ √  
73. Chinese 
Taipei  √ √ √ √ √  
74. Tajikistan   √     
75. Tanzania      √  
76. Thailand  √ √ √ √ √  
77. Tunisia     √   
78. Turkey  √ √ √ √ √ √ 
79. Ukraine  √ √ √ √   
80. United Arab 
Emirates 
(GCC)     √ √  
81. United States 
of America  √  √ √ √ √ 
82. Viet Nam    √ √ √  
83. Zambia      √  
84. Zimbabwe      √  
a Observer.  
Fuente:  WTO Secretariat.  
 
__________