WT/TPR/OV/W/12  
 
10 July 2018  
(18-4339) Page: 1/158 
Trade Policy Review Body    
 
REPORT TO THE TPRB F ROM THE DIRECTOR -GENERAL ON  
TRADE -RELATED DEVELOPMENTS  
(Mid-October  2017 to mid -May 2018)  
Table of contents  
KEY FINDINGS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  2 
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 6 
1   INTRODUCTION  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  8 
2   RECENT ECONOMIC AND TRADE DEVELOPMENTS  ................................ ......................  10 
2.1   Overview  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 10 
2.2   Economic Dev elopments  ................................ ................................ .............................. 11 
2.3   Merchandise Trade  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....13 
2.4   Trade in Commercial Services  ................................ ................................ ...................... 16 
2.5   Trade Forecast and Economic Outlook  ................................ ................................ ........... 16 
3   TRADE AND TRADE -RELATED POLICY DEVEL OPMENTS  ................................ ..............  22 
3.1   Overview of Trends Identified during the Period under Review  ................................ ......... 22 
3.1.1    Measures Facilitating Trade  ................................ ................................ ....................... 22 
3.1.2    Trade Remedy Actions  ................................ ................................ .............................. 23 
3.1.3    Other Trade and Trade -Related Measures  ................................ ................................ ...24 
3.2   Trade -Remedies  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 28 
3.3   Sanitary and phytosanitary measures  ................................ ................................ ........... 39 
3.4   Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT)  ................................ ................................ ................. 46 
3.5   Trade Concerns Raised in Other WTO Bodies  ................................ ................................ ..54 
3.6   Policy Developments in Agriculture  ................................ ................................ ............... 61 
3.7   General Economic Support  ................................ ................................ ........................... 70 
3.8   Other Selected Trade Policy Developments  ................................ ................................ ....71 
4   POLICY DEVELOPMENT I N TRADE IN SERVICES  ................................ ........................  82 
5   POLICY DEVELOPMENTS IN TRADE IN INTELLEC TUAL PROPERTY  .............................  87 
ANNEX 1 - MEASURES FACILITATIN G TRADE  ................................ ................................ . 91 
ANNEX 2 - TRADE REMEDIES  ................................ ................................ ........................  104  
ANNEX 3 - OTHER TRADE -RELATED MEASURES  ................................ ............................  118  
ANNEX 4 - MEASURES AFFECTING T RADE IN SERVICES  ................................ ...............  128  
 WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  KEY FINDINGS  
 This Report covers new trade and trade -related measures implemented by WTO Members 
between 16 October 2017 and 15 May 2018. It reveals a number of important trends in 
global trade policy making.  While WTO Members continue to implement trade -facilitating 
measures, the more worrying trend during this period is the increase in trade -restrictive 
measures which has come at a time of increasing trade tensi ons and associated rhetoric. 
This should be of real concern to the international community.   
 
 WTO Members applied 75 new trade -restrictive measures during the review period , including 
tariff increases, quantitative restrictions , imposition of import taxes and stricter customs 
regulations . This equates to an average of almost 11 new measures per month , which is 
higher compared to the average of 9 measures recorded in the previous Report . 
 
 During the review period, WTO Members also implemented 89 measures aimed at facilitating 
trade, including reduced  or eliminated tariffs, simplified customs procedures , reduction of 
import taxes and eliminat ion of import bans. At almost 13 trade -facilitating measures per 
month, this is an increase compared to the average o f 11 measures recorded in the previous 
Report . 
 
 The trade coverage of the import -facilitating measures (US$107.3 billion) is larger than that 
of the import -restrictive measures (US$84.5 billion). Although this is an encouraging 
development for global trade at this juncture, it is of concern that the ratio of the trade 
coverage  of import -facilitating over import -restrictive measures has fallen significantly  for 
the current review period . This ratio was two-to-one in favour of trade -liberalizing measures , 
as recorded in the previous Report.  
 
 The review period recorded  a stable pace in initiations of trade remedy investigations by 
WTO Members  and an increase in terminations  of trade remedy actions , compared to the 
previous period. Initiations of trade remedy investigations represent almost 40% of all trade 
measures recorded during the review period. The trade coverage of trade remedy initiations 
recorded in this Report is estimated at US$52.7 billion , almost double the trade cover age 
recorded for these measures  during the same period in 2016 -2017. The trade coverage of 
trade remedy terminations recorded in the review period is estimated at US$6.8 billion.  
 
 At a point where the global economy is finally beginning to generate sustained economic 
momentum following the global financial crisis, the uncertainty crea ted by a proliferation of 
trade -restrictive actions could place economic recovery in jeopardy. The multilateral trading 
system was built to resolve  such problems and it has the tools to do so again. However, 
further escalation could carry potentially large risks for the system itself. Its resilience and 
functionality in the face of these challenges will depend on each and every one of its 
Members. WT O Members must use all means at their disposal to de -escalate the situation 
and promote further trade recovery.  
 
 
 
 WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  Trade -restrictive measures   
(average per month)  
 
Note:   Values are rounded. Changes to averages of previous years reflect continuing updates of the  
 TMDB.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Trade -facilitating measures   
(average per month)  
 
Note:  Values are rounded. Changes to averages of previous years reflect continuing updates of the TMDB.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
13 14 14 19 
11 
9 9 11 
0510152025
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 mid-Oct16 to
mid-Oct17mid-Oct17 to
mid-May18Chart KF1
Trade restrictive measures, excluding trade remedies
Source:   WTO Secretariat.(Average per month)
Values are rounded.
16
121521
15
11 1113
0510152025
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 mid-Oct16 to
mid-Oct17mid-Oct17 to
mid-May18Chart KF2
Trade facilitating measures, excluding trade remedies
Source:   WTO Secretariat.(Average per month)
Values are rounded.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  WTO trade remedies  initiations and terminations  
(average per month)  
 
Note:  Values are rounded.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Trade measures, mid -October 201 7 to mid -May 2018  
(by number)  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
21 28 
25 
23 29 
25 25 25 
17 
16 18 18 
14 
13 
10 13 
 - 5 10 15 20 25 30 35
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 mid-Oct16 to
mid-Oct17mid-Oct17 to
mid-May18
Initiations avg per month Terminations avg per monthChart KF03
WTO trade remedies initiations and terminations
Source:  WTO Secretariat.
173 92 89 75 
Trade remedy initiations Trade remedy terminations
Measures facilitating trade Trade-restrictive measures429Chart 04.KF
Trade measures, mid -October 2017 to mid -May 2018
Source:  WTO SecretariatWT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  Trade coverage of import measures, mid -October 201 7 to mid -May 2018  
(US$ billion)  
 
Note:  2016 figures. ITA expansion measures are not included.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
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 Reports 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 amo ng WTO Members that several 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 Antidumping and Subsidies Agreements permit WTO 
Members to im pose antidumping (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 disto rtive 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 add itioinal  transparency 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 neith er classified 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 consiste ntly 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. Finall y, the 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 a nd objective. 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 restrictiv e 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.  
53 7 107 85 
Trade remedy initiations Trade remedy terminations
Measures facilitating trade Trade-restrictive measuresUS$251Chart 05.KF
Trade coverage of import measures, mid -October 2017 to mid -May 2018
Source: WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  EXECUTIVE SUMMARY  
This WTO Trade Monitoring Report covers  new trade and trade -related  measures  implemented  by 
WTO Members  between  16 October  2017 and 15 May 2018.1  
 
World trade grew in 2017 at the fastest pace since the financial crisis , in both value and volume 
terms. The volume of world merchandise trade recorded growth of 4.7 % last year, up from 1.8% 
in 2016. Trade growth was faster in the second half of 2017 than in the first. The dollar value of 
merchandise expor ts was up 11 % to US$17.7 trillion in 2017 while commercial services exports 
grew by 7% to US$5.3 trillion. The pace of world GDP growth also picked up to 3% in 2017 from 
2.3% in 2016. Stronger than expected trade and output growth in 2017 was largely due t o cyclical 
factors, including increased investment spending, which has a high import content. Trade growth is 
expected to remain strong in 2018 and 2019 but continued expansion depends on governments 
pursuing appropriate monetary, fiscal and especial ly trade policies.   
 
Recently, some forward -looking trade -related indicators have turned down. This is at a juncture 
where the global economy is finally beginning to generate sustained economic momentum 
following the global financial crisis, and where any uncert ainty created b y a proliferation of 
trade -restrictive actions, including some recent trade actions not captured in this Report, could 
place economic recovery in jeopardy. The multilateral trading system was built to resolve such 
problems and it has the too ls to do so again. However, further escalation could carry potentially 
large risks for the system itself. Its resilience and functionality in the face of these challenges will 
depend on each and every one of its Members. WTO Members must use all means at t heir disposal 
to de-escalate the situation and promote further trade recovery.  
 
This Report shows that d uring the review period, WTO Members applied 75 new trade -restrictive 
measures , including tariff increases, quantitative restrictions , imposition of import taxes and 
stricter customs regulations, amounting to a monthly average of almost 11 new measures per 
month. This represents a n increase compared to the average of nine measures recorded in the 
previous Report.  
  
WTO Members also implemented 89 measu res aimed at facilitating trade during the review period, 
including eliminated or reduced tariffs, simplified customs procedures , reduction of import taxes 
and elimination of import bans. At almost 13 trade -facilitating measures per month, this is an 
increase compared to the average of 11 measures recorded for the previous  review period .  
 
In line with the findings of previous Reports, the trade coverage of the import -facilitating measures 
(US$107.3 billion) is larger than that of the import -restrictive mea sures (US$84.5 billion). 
Although this an encouraging development for global trade at this  point, the ratio between the 
estimated trade coverage for import -facilitating  measures and that of import -restrictive ones was 
two-to-one in favour of the former in the November 2017 Report . In the current review period this 
ratio has fallen significantly . This is a source of considerable concern and an area where continued 
monitoring is required.  
 
On trade remedy measures, the review period recorded a stable pace in initiations of investigations 
by WTO Members  and an increase in trade remedy terminations , compared to the previous Report . 
Initiations of trade remedy investigations represented 40% of all trade measures taken d uring the 
review period, with initiations of anti -dumping investigations accounting for almost 80% of these . 
The main sectors affected by trade remedy initiations during the review period were iron and steel, 
plastics and articles thereof, vehicles, parts and accessories thereof, articles of iron and steel and 
electrical machinery and parts thereof. The trade covered by trade remedy initiations recorded in 
this Report is estimated at US$52.7 billion , almost double the trade coverage recorded for these 
measu res during the same period in 2016 -2017.  The trade coverage of trade remedy terminations 
recorded in the review period is estimated at US$6.8  billion.   
 
A range of other subjects are also covered by this Report. WTO Members ' notifications of Sanitary 
and P hytosanitary (SPS) measures and of Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) measures have 
increased during the review period, with the majority of new notifications being submitted by 
developing Members.  The SPS and TBT notification obligations are meant to promo te enhanced 
predictability and transparency regarding measures taken to address legitimate policy objectives. 
                                                
1 Unless otherwise indicated in the relevant Section.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  As in previous Reports, the majority of regular SPS notifications related to food safety , whereas 
the bulk of emergency SPS measures related to an imal health. The majority of TBT measures 
indicated the protection of human health or safety  as their main objective . In both the SPS and 
TBT Committees, WTO Members have dedicated considerable time to discussing Specific Trade 
Concerns (STCs), suggesting the increasing use of the Committees by WTO Members as fora in 
which trade  concerns may be effectively resolved non -litigiously.  
 
During  the review  period , a greater  number  of other  trade concerns  such as quantitative  
restrictions,  customs  fees and safeguard  measures  were raised  in various  WTO bodies  compared  to 
the previous  Report.  Several  trade  concerns  were also raised  in more than one WTO body,  
seemingly  confirming  that these  concerns  involve  increasingly  complex  and cross-cutting  issues.  
WTO Members  appear  to be seeking  multiple  platforms  within  the WTO committee  structure  to 
address  various  aspects  of such trade  concerns.  From a systemic  point of view, this is significant  
because  of the increased  transparency  which  it brings  and because  it demonstrates  that WTO 
committees  provide  constructive  platforms  where  trading  partners  can engage  on potential  areas  
of trade  friction.   
 
In the area of agriculture, W TO Members continued to make use of the Committee on Agriculture 
(CoA) as a forum to discuss agricultural policies and is sues related to the implementation of 
commitments. WTO Members continued asking questions on individual notifications and under 
Article  18.6 of the Agreement on Agriculture (AoA). One third of new issues raised during the 
review period related to Members' domestic support policies and one third sought clarifications on 
policies that potentially subsidized exports . 
 
Work on the implementation of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement continues to advance. 
Many Members concluded their domestic ratification processes, raising the total number of 
acceptances to about 83%  of the entire WTO membership.  
 
Several  new measur es affecting  trade  in services , some  horizontal  in nature  and some  affecting  a 
variety  of service  sectors , were introduced  by WTO Members  during  the review  period . In line with 
the findings  of previous  Reports,  the majority  of the measures  provided  for additional  liberalization  
or aimed  at strengthening  or clarifying  regulatory  frameworks . However,  several  new policies  
implemented  during  the review  period  appear  to be trade -restrictive.   
 
The Report also draws attention to developments in the area of Trade-Related  Aspects  of 
Intellectual  Property  Rights  (TRIPS) . WTO Members continued to develop their own national 
strategies to streamline intellectual property (IP) into the economy and to modernize and fine -tune 
their IP -legislation, thereby strengthening the relation ship between IP and trade .  
 
Following MC11, w ork continued throughout the first half of 2018  to advance negotiations on 
fisher ies subsidies , building on the decision taken by WTO Members in Buenos Aires, as well as on 
a number of other issues.  Groups of Members also continued to pursue their discussions on issues 
including electronic commerce, investment facilitation, micro, small and medium enterprises 
(MSMEs) and women's economic empowerment.  
 
 WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTION  
1.1.  This Monitoring  Report1 reviews trade and trade -related developments during the period 
16 October 2017 to 15 May 2018.2 It is a mid -year preparatory contribution to the annual report 
by the Director -General provided for in paragraph (g) of the Trade Policies Review Mecha nism 
(TPRM) mandate which aims to assist the TPRB in undertaking an annual overview of 
developments in the international trading environment that are having an impact on the 
multilateral trading system. This R eport is intended to be purely factual and is i ssued 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 implication with respect to the conformi ty of any measure 
noted in the R eport with any WTO Agreement or  any provision thereof  (see Box 1 ). 
1.2.  Section 2 of the Report provides an overview of recent economic and trade trends. Section 3 
presents an account of selected trade and trade -related policy developments during the review 
period. Policy developments in trade in services and trade in intellec tual property are included in 
Sections 4 and 5, respectively. Annexes to the Report list specific trade policy measures of 
individual Members 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). Once a gain, it has not been 
possible to establish a separate annex on general economic support measures implemented by 
WTO Members. The country -specific measures listed in the four annexes are new measures 
implemented by Members and Observers during the period under review.3 Measures implemented 
outside this period are not included in these annexes.  The compilation of all measures recorded by 
the trade -monitoring reports since October  2008 is available in the Trade Monitoring Database.4 
1.3.  Specific developments related to Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures and Technical 
Barriers to Trade (TBT) are covered separately under Section 3.  
1.4.  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. Replies to 
the Director -General's request for information on measures taken during the period under revie w 
were received from 71 Members5, which represents 43% of the membership and covers 91.9% of 
world imports.6 Two Observer s also replied to the request for information. The WTO Secretariat 
has drawn on these replies, as well as on a variety of other sources, to prepare this Report. 
Country -specific information was sent for verification to 74 delegations.  Participation in the  
verification process was uneven, and in a number of cases the Secretariat received only partial 
responses and often after the indicated deadline.7 Where it has not been possible to confirm the 
information, this is noted in the Annexes.  
1.5.  The OECD has contributed three topical boxes to this Report. The first shows the effects of 
non-tariff measures on prices and volumes of trade , the second deals with agricultural transfers 
and the third focuses on the increasingly tighter regulatory condit ions on global services trade 
markets. The International Trade Centre (ITC) has provided a box on digital technologies as a tool 
for gender -inclusive trade. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has contributed a box on a 
multidimensional approach to trade  policy indicators.  
                                                
1 The previous WTO Trade Monitoring Report presented to the TPRB (WT/TPR/OV/20, 
16 November  2017) covered measures taken over the period from mid -October 2016 to mid -October 2017. 
The WTO trade monitoring reports have been prepared by the WTO Secretariat sin ce 2009. On 4 July  2018, the 
WTO Secretariat, together with the Secretariats of the OECD and UNCTAD, issued a report on trade and 
investment measures implemented by G20 economies during the period mid -October 2017  to mid -May 2018 
(available on the WTO webs ite).  
2 Unless otherwise indicated in the relevant section.  
3 The in clusion of any measure in this R eport or in  its annexes implies no judgement by the WTO 
Secretariat on whether or not such measure, or its intent, is protectionist in nature. Moreover, no thing in this 
Report implies any judgement, either direct or indirect, as to the consistency of any measure referred to in the 
Report with the provisions of any WTO Agreement.  
4 http://tmdb.wto.org/ . Measures listed in  Annexes 1, 2 and 3 to this Report will feature in the TMDB 
after the TPRB meeting on 25 July 2018.  
5 The European Union and its member States counted separately.  
6 This figure includes intra -EU trade.  
 7 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/W/1 2 
 
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  Participation in the preparation of this Report 
Argentina  
Australia  
Brazil  
Canada  
Chile 
China  
Colombia  
Costa Rica  
Dominican Republic  
El Salvador  
European Union (28)  
Hong Kong, China  
India 
Indonesia  
Iraq, Rep. of*  Japan  
Jordan  
Kazakhstan  
Korea, Republic  of 
Macao, China  
Malaysia  
Mauritius  
Mexico  
Moldova, Republic  of 
Morocco  
New Zealand  
Norway  
Pakistan  
Panama  
Peru Philippines  
Qatar  
Russian Federation  
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
Serbia*  
Seychelles  
Singapore  
South Africa  
Switzerland  
Chinese Taipei  
Thailand  
Turkey  
Ukraine  
United States of America  
Uruguay  
* Observer . WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  2   RECENT ECONOMIC AND TRADE DEVELOPMENTS  
2.1  Overview  
2.1.  World trade growth accelerated in the second half of 2017 as economic activity picked up 
globally. Year -on-year growth in the seasonally -adjusted volume of world merchandise trade 
increased to 5.2% in the second half of the year, up from 4.2% in the first half as measured by 
the average of exports and imports. The faster pace of expansion in the second half brought trade 
growth for the whole of 2017 to 4.7%, marking the strongest annual increase in merchandise 
trade since 2011.  
2.2.  Trade growth in 2017 was eve n stronger in value terms, as merchandise exports rose 10.6% 
to US$17.73 trillion and commercial services exports grew 7.4% to US$5.25 trillion. The faster 
rate of increase in merchandise trade compared to commercial services trade partly reflects higher 
primary commodity prices. Energy prices increased by nearly 24% in 2017 while prices of 
non-energy commodities rose 5.5% according to World Bank statistics.  
2.3.  Trade growth in 2017 was significantly stronger than in 2016, when the volume of world 
merchandise t rade recorded weak expansion of just 1.8%.  Merchandise exports fell 3.0% in value 
terms in 2016 to US$15.54 trillion while the value of commercial services exports registered a 
modest increase of 0.7%, rising to US$4.89 trillion.  The stronger -than-expected  recovery of trade 
in 2017 is mainly attributable to cyclical factors, as estimates of gross domestic product (GDP) 
from forecasting agencies were revised steadily upwards over the course of the year. World real 
GDP at market exchange rates recorded growth  of 3.0% in 2017, up from 2.3% in 2016. Economic 
activity was in turn driven by stronger investment spending, particularly in the United States, and 
rising consumption, notably in Japan. Meanwhile, China and the European Union maintained a 
steadier pace of  output growth, providing a solid base for global demand.  
2.4.  Asia made the biggest contribution of any region to world trade volume growth in 2017, 
accounting for 51% of the increase in merchandise exports and 60% of growth in merchandise 
imports. South and Central America and the Caribbean also made a positive cont ribution to global 
import demand for the first time since 2013, reducing the region's drag on world trade. Overall, 
trade growth in 2017 was more regionally balanced than at any time since the onset of the 
financial crisis.  
2.5.  Merchandise exports of developed  economies grew 3.5% in volume terms in 2017 after 
recording an increase of just 1.1% in 2016. Exports of developing and emerging economies also 
picked up last year, with growth accelerating to 5.7% from 2.3% in the previous year. Developed 
economies recor ded import volume growth of 3.1% in 2017, which was stronger than the 2.0% 
increase recorded for 2016.  Imports of developing and emerging economies were up strongly in 
2017, with growth rising to 7.2% from 1.9%  in 2016 . 
2.6.  World merchandise trade growth is ex pected to remain strong in 2018 and 2019. The 
economic outlook remains positive, but continued expansion depends on governments pursuing 
appropriate monetary, fiscal and especially trade policies.  In its latest statistical press release of 
12 April 2018, t he WTO forecasted trade volume growth of 4.4% for 2018, roughly in line with the 
4.7% increase recorded for 2017. In recognition of the high degree of economic and policy 
uncertainty at the moment, the forecast for the current year is placed within a range  of from 3.1% 
to 5.5%.  World merchandise trade g rowth is predicted to slow slightly to 4.0% in 2019, below the 
4.8% average since 1990 , but firmly above the post -crisis average of 3.0%.  
2.7.  In light of recent trade policy developments , risks to the forecast are tilted to the downside. 
Increased use, as well as increasing threats , of restrictive trade policy measures contribute to 
uncertainty and could produce cycles of retaliation that would weigh on global trade and output. 
Other risks  to the forecast include the anticipated tightening of monetary policy by central banks 
and heightened geopolitical tensions, which could potentially have important negative 
consequences for trade. On the other hand, there is some upside potential if struc tural reforms 
and expansionary fiscal policy cause economic growth and trade to accelerate in the short run.  
2.8.  There are signs that escalating trade tensions may already be affecting business confidence 
and investment decisions and this could compromise th e current outlook. Recent trade -related WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  economic indicators are mixed. These indicators are summarized  in the WTO World Trade Outlook 
Indicator, which dipped to 101.8 in May from 102.3 in February (see Box 2.1 below). This suggests 
continued solid trade gro wth in Q2 but at a slower pace than in Q1.  
2.2  Economic Developments  
2.9.  Historically, world merchandise trade volumes have grown about 1.5 times faster than world 
real GDP at market exchange rates since 1950. The ratio of trade growth to GDP growth, referred 
to as the "elasticity of trade with respect to income", was greater than 2.0 in the 1990s, but fell 
back to around 1.0 in the years following the global financial crisis (2011 -2016). This measure of 
elasticity finally fell to 0.8 in 2016 before rebounding to 1 .5 in 2017, close to the historical 
average.  Stronger trade growth relative to GDP growth is expected to continue at least into 2018, 
barring any significant economic shock.  
2.10.   Global economic growth strengthened in the second half of 2017, but available data for the 
first quarter of 2018 suggest that economic activity has eased. In the United States, GDP growth 
picked up from an annualized rate of 3.1% in Q2 to 3.2% in Q3 and before moderating to 2.9% in 
Q4. Although output growth slowed to 2.3% in the first quarter of 2018, it remained well above 
the 1.2% rate recorded for the first quarter of 2017.  Investment made the largest contribution to 
US output growth in Q1 of 2018, followed by consumption.  Unemployment continued to fall in the 
first quarter, dropping  to 3.9% in April from 4.1% in March, raising the probability of faster 
monetary policy tightening by the Federal Reserve.  
2.11.   Economic activity also slowed in the European Union (EU) in the first quarter of 2018, as 
growth fell to 1.6% from a sustained rate o f around 2.7% throughout 2017 (all rates annualized).  
Growth in the narrower euro area was nearly identical to the wider EU, 1.6% in Q1 and 2.8% on 
average in 2017. Meanwhile, growth continued to slow in the United Kingdom, as output grew at 
an annualized rate of just 0.4% in Q1, down from 1.6% in Q4 of 2017 and 1.9% in Q3. EU -wide 
unemployment continued to trend gradually downward, dropping to 7.1% in March from an 
average rate of 7.6% in 2017. Unemployment rates differ widely across EU countries, with a l ow 
rate of 3.4% prevailing in Germany and a higher rate of 8.8% in France.   
2.12.   Japan 's rate of GDP growth slowed from an annualized rate of 2.0% in Q3 of 2017 to 0.6% 
in Q4 and further to -0.6% in the first quarter of 2018. The decline in Q1 was driven by a d ip in 
investment, including inventory investment, while consumption, government spending and 
external balances each contributed very little to growth. Japan 's unemployment rate remained 
steady at 2.5% in March, which is lower than the 2.8% average rate for  2017.  
2.13.   GDP growth in China remains strong, but has moderated since the first half of 2017.  China 's 
economy expanded at an annualized rate of around 7.5% in Q3 of 2017, 6.5% in Q4, and roughly 
6% in the first quarter of 2018. No harmonized unemployment rat e is available for China, but the 
country 's economic rebalancing away from manufacturing and toward services continues.  
2.14.   Economic growth in South and Central America has been mixed recently. Brazil's rate of 
GDP growth slowed to 0.2% annualized in the firs t quarter of 2018 from 1.0% in  Q4 of 2017 . 
Meanwhile, growth in Argentina accelerated to 3.9% in Q4 from 3.1% in Q3. Rising commodity 
prices should boost export revenues and support stronger regional growth going forward.  
2.15.   Fluctuations in prices and exchang e rates can strongly influence nominal trade statistics, 
which are usually expressed in current US dollar terms. Recent developments are illustrated by 
Chart  2.1, which shows indices of nominal effective exchange rates for selected economies through 
March 2018.  Currencies, including the dollar, have been relatively stable during the review period , 
with the dollar rising 0.9% on average against currencies of trading partners since last October. 
The dollar is down nearly 6% in nominal effective terms since Ja nuary 2017, but currently trades 
at roughly the same rate as in October of 2015.  China 's currency appreciated by around 5% 
between October 2017 and March 2018 while the euro rose nearly 3% in nominal effective terms 
(i.e. on average against a broad basket of currencies) over the same period.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 12 - 
 
  Chart 2.1 Nominal effective exchange rate indices for s elected economies, 
January  2014 -March 2018a  
(index, January 2014 = 100)  
 
 
a  Nominal effective exchange rate indices against a broad basket of currencies.  
Source:   Bank for International Settlements.  
Chart 2.2 Prices of primary commodities, January 2014 – April 2018  
(index, January 2014 = 100)  
 
Source:   World Bank Commodity Prices.  
2.16.   Chart 2.2 shows the latest developments in primary commodity prices, which have 
increased strongly in recent months. Since October of 2017, prices for food, fuels and metals have 
climbed 9.5%, 35% and 6%, respectively.  Considering the relative stability of the dollar during 
this period, these increases represent a real strengthening of commodity prices compared to other 
goods rather than a change in the value of the denomination currency.  
60708090100110120130
United States China Japan Euro area Brazil United KingdomChart Coleman.1
Exchange rate indices for selected economies, January 2014 -March 2018a
Index, January 2014=100
Source:  Bank for International Settlements (BIS).a   Nominal effective exchange rate indices against a broad basket of currencies.
20406080100120
Food Agricultural raw materials Metals FuelChart Coleman.2
Prices of primary commodities, January 2015 -April 2018
Indices, January 2014=100
Source:  World Bank Commodity Price Data.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 13 - 
 
  2.17.   Robust US crude oil production has kept oil pric es from returning to the elevated levels that 
prevailed until the middle of 2014, but the recent upward trend is stronger than most forecasts 
from last year. Higher oil prices will squeeze household budgets in importing countries but could 
stimulate invest ment in the energy sector, making their overall economic impact ambiguous.  
2.3  Merchandise Trade  
2.18.   Chart  2.3 shows year -on-year growth in the dollar value of world merchandise trade (red 
line), as well as contributions to nominal trade growth from developed and developing economies 
(stacked bars). World exports were up 11.4% in the fourth quarter of 2017. Developing economies 
contributed slightly less than half of that growth (5.3 percentage points, or 46%), while developed 
economies were responsible for the rest  (6.1 percentage points, or 54%). Developments on the 
import side were similar, with developed economies contributing more to the total increase 
(7.1 percentage points, or 59%) and with develop ing economies ac counting for the remainder 
(5 percentage points , or 41%).  
2.19.   Merchandise trade volume growth trended gradually upwards in most major economies in 
the second half of 2017 (Chart 2.4). One notable exception was Brazil, where export and import 
volumes recorded larger percentage increases from a lower base re corded in the second half of 
2016. Seasonally -adjusted exports and imports were up 3.7% and 4.3%, respectively, in the 
United States in the second half of 2017 compared to the same period in 2016.  Extra-EU exports 
were up 5.4% year -on-year in the second ha lf, up from 4.0% in th e first half.  Meanwhile, extra -EU 
imports were up 2.8% in the second half after registering a slight decline in the first half ( -0.3%). 
Intra-EU trade growth also picked up in the second half of 2017, as shipments between EU 
countries  rose 4.4% year -on-year, compared to 2.2% in the first half.   
2.20.   Japan's exports and imports were up 6.8% and 3.8% year -on-year, respectively, in the 
second half of 2017, with little change compared to the first half of the year. Developing Asia 
(including Ch ina) recorded a 7.1% year -on-year increase in the volume of its exports in the second 
half of 2017, compared to 7.4% in the first half.  Meanwhile, the region 's imports were up by 7.5%, 
down from 10.4% in the first half. Brazil's exports jumped 13.4% in the  second half of 2017 while 
imports rose by 9.6%.  
2.21.   Monthly merchandise trade statistics in nominal terms are more timely than quarterly 
statistics in volume terms. These are shown in Chart  2.5 through March 2018.  Dollar values of 
exports and imports continue  to rise in most countries, reflecting increases in both price and 
volume. Trade statistics in current US dollar terms should be interpreted with caution since they 
are strongly affected by fluctuations in prices and exchange rates.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 14 - 
 
  Chart 2.3 Contributions to year -on-year growth in world merchandise exports and 
imports, 2014Q1 - 2017Q4  
(% change in US$ 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.  
1.80.8 0.6
-2.2
-6.8 -6.6 -6.3-5.5-2.2-0.1 -0.11.13.72.34.66.1
-0.41.2 1.7
-2.2
-5.9-7.2-9.0-7.0-5.5-3.2-1.51.15.5
4.24.95.3
1.42.1 2.3
-4.4
-12.6
-13.9
-15.3-12.5-7.7-3.3-1.72.29.1
6.59.511.4
-20-15-10-5051015
2014Q1 2014Q2 2014Q3 2014Q4 2015Q1 2015Q2 2015Q3 2015Q4 2016Q1 2016Q2 2016Q3 2016Q4 2017Q1 2017Q2 2017Q3 2017Q4Chart Coleman.3
Contributions to year -on-year growth in world merchandise exports and imports, 2014Q1 
-2017Q4
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 change2.22.3
1.2
-2.4
-6.8
-7.1-7.0-5.2-2.3-0.3 -0.1 0.53.52.74.87.1
-0.1 -0.30.5
-0.9
-5.5-5.9
-7.0-6.6-5.0-2.7-1.81.05.6
4.34.85.0
2.0 2.01.7
-3.3
-12.4-13.0
-13.9-11.8-7.3-3.1-1.91.59.0
7.09.612.1
-20-15-10-5051015
2014Q1 2014Q2 2014Q3 2014Q4 2015Q1 2015Q2 2015Q3 2015Q4 2016Q1 2016Q2 2016Q3 2016Q4 2017Q1 2017Q2 2017Q3 2017Q4Exports
ImportsWT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 15 - 
 
  Chart 2.4 Volume of exports and imports of selected economies, 2012Q1 - 2017Q4  
(seasonally -adjusted volume indices, 2012Q1 = 100)  
 
 
Note:   Data for the United States, Japan and the EU w ere obtained from national statistical sources while 
figures for Brazil and Developing Asia are seasonally -adjusted Secretariat estimates.  
Source:   WTO Secretariat and UNCTAD.  
  
708090100110120130140
2012Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2013Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2014Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2015Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2016Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2017Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4Chart Coleman.4
Volume of exports and imports of selected economies, 2012Q1 -2017Q4
708090100110120130140
2012Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2013Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2014Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2015Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2016Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2017Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4(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/W/1 2 
 
- 16 - 
 
  2.4  Trade in Commercial Services  
2.22.   Year-on-year growth of commercial services export s in dollar value picked up in most major 
economies in the fourth quarter of 2017 , except for India where export growth merely moderated. 
These developments are illustrated in Chart 2.6, which shows growth in quarterly services trade 
for selected economies.  Exports were up 6.0% year -on-year for the United States, 14.8% for the 
European Union, 9.1% for Japan, 11.9% for China, 8.1% for India and 2.6% for Brazil.1 
2.23.   On the import side, a sharp increase in the European Union was balanced by a slowdown in  
China in the fourth quarter.  Imports rose 8.2% in the United States, 9.2% in the European Union, 
1.3% in Japan, 9.9% in India and 8.3% in Brazil in Q4. However, commercial services imports of 
China fell 7.2% year -on-year in the latest period.  
2.24.   According to  preliminary Secretariat estimates, g lobal exports of commercial services were 
up 7.4% in 201 7 to US$5.25  trillion. The fastest growing services sector in 201 7 was transport, 
which recorded year -on-year growth in U .S. dollar  value of 8.3%, followed by othe r commercial 
services (7.4%, including financial services), travel (7.2%) and goods related services (5.2%).   
2.5  Trade Forecast and Economic Outlook  
2.25.   Some leading and coincident indicators of merchandise trade have continued to point in a 
generally positive di rection in the first quarter of 2018 while others have taken a more negative 
turn. An index of container port throughput from the Institute for Shipping Economics and Logistics 
(ISL) was up 4.2% year -on-year in March but has turned down recently, dropping 2.3% since 
January. Similarly, a measure of global export orders derived from HIS -Markit's global purchasing 
managers' index fell to 50.9 in April from 54.1 in January. A value above 50 still indicates 
expansion, but the recent weakening may be attributed to the uncertainty characterizing the 
international  trading environment  at this point .  
2.26.   An index based on the frequency of phrases in press accounts of economic policy 
uncertainty jumped to 154.9 in April from 110.2, compared to a baseline of 100 equal to the 
average value of the index for the period 1997 -2015 (www.PolicyUncertainty.com). This index 
encompasses all types of policy uncertainty, including monetary, fiscal and trade policy. For 
example, p lanned investments could be postponed or curtailed due t o rising economic uncertainty . 
This is important because investment is strongly correlated with world trade due to its high import 
content.  
2.27.   Table 2.1 summarizes the WTO 's latest trade forecast of 12 April 2018. If current forecasts 
for GDP growth are reali zed, the WTO anticipates world merchandise trade volume growth of 4.4% 
in 2018, with stronger growth in developing economies on both the export side (5.4%) and the 
import side (4.8%). Developed countries should also experience reasonably strong growth in b oth 
exports (3.8%) and imports (4.1%). In recognition of the current high level of economic and policy 
uncertainty, the WTO's trade forecast for 2018 has been placed within a range from 3.1% to 
5.5%.  
2.28.   In 2019 , global trade growth is expected to moderate to  4.0%, with developing economies 
still outpacing developed countries in both exports (5.1% compared to 3.1%) and imports (4.4% 
compared to 3.3%). However, economic activity and trade could be hit by escalating trade 
restrictions, which might result in more  negative scenarios  playing out . Other risks to the forecast 
include rising inflation, which could  cause premature monetary policy tightening in developed 
countries, and geopolitical tensions, which could potentially have important negative consequences 
for trade. Economic forecasters generally expect monetary authorities to manage monetary policy 
challenges successfully, but low unemployment and shrinking output gaps leave policymakers less 
room for manoeuvre.  As a result, financial volatility could come t o the fore if economic conditions 
change.  
                                                
1 No comparable figures were available for the Russian Federation in 2017Q4.  
 WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 17 - 
 
  Chart 2.5 Merchandise exports and imports of selected economies, January 2012 – 
March  2018  
(US$ billion)  
 
 
 
 
 
Chart Coleman.1
Merchandise exports and imports of G20 economies, January 2012 -March 2018
United States Japan(US$ billion)
European Union (extra -trade) China
Canada Turkey050100150200250
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-180102030405060708090
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18
050100150200250
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18050100150200250
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18
0102030405060
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-1805101520
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18Australia Republic of Korea
051015202530354045
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-180510152025
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18
05101520
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18Indonesia
051015202530
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18BrazilWT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 18 - 
 
   
 
Source:  IMF International Financial Statistics, Global Trade Information Services, Global Trade Atlas database  
and national statistics.  
Russian Federation India
MalaysiaViet Nam
Mexico Argentina
Imports ExportsChart Coleman.1 (continued)
0102030405060
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-1805101520253035404550
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18
024681012
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18South Africa
01020304050
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18Singapore
0510152025
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-170100200300400500600
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17
01020304050
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-180123456789
Jan-12 Jan-13 Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 19 - 
 
  Chart 2.6 Commercial services exports and imports of selected economies, 2016Q4 - 
2017Q4  
(year -on-year percentage change  in current US$ values)  
 
Source:  WTO and UNCTAD Secretariats.  
  
-35-30-25-20-15-10-50510152025
United States European Union
(extra)Japan China India Brazil Russian
FederationChart Coleman.6
Commercial services exports and imports of selected G -20 economies, 2016Q4 -2017Q4
-30-25-20-15-10-5051015202530
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.2017Q3 2016Q4 2017Q1 2017Q2 2017Q4WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 20 - 
 
  Table 2.1 Merchandise trade volume and real GDP growth, 201 4-2019  
(annual percentage change)  
  2014  2015  2016  2017  2018a 2019a 
Volume of world merchandise tradeb 2.7 2.5 1.8 4.7 4.4 4.0 
Exports              
Developed economies  2.1 2.3 1.1 3.5 3.8 3.1 
Developing economiesc 2.7 2.4 2.3 5.7 5.4 5.1 
North America  4.6 0.8 0.6 4.2 4.5 4.5 
South and Central America and the    
 Caribbean  -2.1 1.8 1.9 2.9 2.8 2.6 
Europe  1.6 2.9 1.1 3.5 3.6 2.9 
Asia 4.5 1.5 2.3 6.7 5.7 5.0 
Other regionsd -1.0 5.5 2.6 2.3 4.7 4.4 
Imports              
Developed economies  3.4 4.3 2.0 3.1 4.1 3.3 
Developing economiesc 2.4 0.6 1.9 7.2 4.8 4.4 
North America  4.3 5.4 0.1 4.0 5.7 5.0 
South and Central America and the 
 Caribbean  -2.7 -6.4 -6.8 4.0 3.9 5.7 
Europe  3.0 3.7 3.1 2.5 3.5 2.8 
Asia 3.7 4.0 3.5 9.6 5.9 4.7 
Other regionsd 0.5 -5.6 0.2 0.9 0.4 1.8 
Real GDP at market exchange rates  2.7 2.7 2.3 3.0 3.2 3.1 
Developed economies  2.0 2.3 1.6 2.3 2.4 2.2 
Developing economiesc 4.3 3.7 3.6 4.3 4.6 4.6 
North America  2.6 2.7 1.5 2.4 2.8 2.7 
South and Central America and the 
 Caribbean  0.9 -0.9 -2.1 1.0 2.3 2.8 
Europe  2.0 2.3 1.9 2.6 2.4 2.1 
Asia 4.1 4.2 4.1 4.5 4.5 4.4 
Other regionsd 2.5 1.1 2.2 2.0 2.8 2.9 
a  Figures for 2018 and 2019 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/W/1 2 
 
- 21 - 
 
  Box 2.1 The WTO World Trade Outlook Indicator  
The World Trade Outlook Indicator (WTOI) is a composite leading indicator for world trade laun ched by the 
WTO in 2016. Designed to provide "real time" information on the trajectory of world trade relative to recent 
trends, the WTOI is not intended as a short -term forecast, although it does provide an indication of trade 
growth in the near future. I ts main contribution is to identify turning points and gauge momentum in global 
trade growth. As such, it complements trade statistics and forecasts from the WTO and other organizations.  
 
The WTOI combines six component indices of trade related data into an overall index that signals trade 
conditions 3 -4 months ahead of quarterly trade volume data. Readings of 100 indicate growth in line with 
medium -term trends; readings greater than 100 suggest above -trend growth, while those below 100 indicate 
the revers e. The direction of change reflects momentum compared with the previous month.  The WTOI 's 
component indices include the following:  
 
- global export orders reported by manufacturers in national purchasing managers indices;  
- international air freight in fre ight tonne kilometres (FTKs) from the International Air  
 Transport Association (IATA);  
- container throughput of major ports, in twenty -foot equivalent units (TEU);  
- automobile sales and/or production in selected economies;  
- customs data on electronic components trade in physical units; and  
- customs data on agricultural raw materials trade in physical units.  
 
The latest WTOI of 17 May 2018 remained above trend with a value of 101.8, but displayed a loss of 
momentum compared to the previous release of 12 February, which came in at 102.3.  These values suggest 
continued solid trade growth in the second quarter of 2018 but probably at a somewhat slower pace than in the 
first quarter.  
 
The recent dip in the WTOI reflects declines in export orders in partic ular but also for air freight, which may be 
linked to rising economic uncertainty due to increased trade tensions.  The forward -looking export orders index 
dropped sharply, falling below -trend to 98.1 in the latest month. Although the air freight index rema ins above 
trend at 102.5, it has declined in recent months. While container throughput remains above trend (105.8), 
automobile sales (97.9) and agricultural raw materials (95.9) are currently weighing down the overall index. In 
contrast to the other indice s, the electronic components index (104.2) has turned up, rising above trend.  
 
 
 
The latest results are broadly in line with the WTO's most recent trade forecast issued on 12 April 2018, which 
predicted a moderation of merchandise trade volume growth from 4.7% in 2017 to 4.4% in 2018. The WTOI 
should be monitored closely going forward as it would likely provide an early signal of the uncertainty and 
impact created by the proliferation of trade -restrictive measures.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 22 - 
 
  3  TRADE AND TRADE -RELATED POLICY DEVEL OPMENTS  
3.1  Overview of Trends Identified during the Period under Review  
3.1.  The following provides analysis of a number of selected trade and trade -related policy 
developments during the period from  16 October 2017 to 15 May 2018.  
3.2.  The WTO trade monitoring exercise is, f irst and foremost, a transparency exercise. It is not a 
legal exercise. It is intended to be factual and without prejudice to the rights and obligations of 
WTO Members. The regular Monitoring Reports seek to capture recent trends in the 
implementation of t rade measures and contextualize them with the global economic environment 
and other developments in the international trading system. The contribution of Members in the 
trade monitoring effort and in maintaining a platform for a regular and collective peer  review of 
trade policies is fundamental for enhancing transparency and predictability in trade policy -making 
(Box 1).  
3.3.  The trade measures compiled for this Report are presented in three categories: (i) measures 
that clearly facilitate trade (Annex 1); (ii)  trade -remedy measures (Annex  2); and (iii) other trade 
and trade -related measures (Annex 3).  
3.4.  The total number of such measures over the review period was 429. This figure includes 
89 trade -facilitating measures, 265 trade -remedy measures , and 75 other trade and trade -related 
measures  (Chart 3.1).1 
3.1.1   Measures Facilitating Trade  
3.5.  Annex 1 to this Report lists measures which are clearly trade -facilitating . 
3.6.  During the review period, 89 new measures aimed at facilitating trade were recorded for 
WTO Members ( Table 3.1), some of a temporary nature (24). This represents 21% of the total 
number of measures recorded. The monthly average of just below 13 trade -facilitating measures 
recorded for the period is higher than the average of almost 11 measures recorded for the 
previous period.  
3.7.  Table 3.1 shows that , among trade -facilitating measures, the reduction or elimination of 
import tariffs continues to make up the bulk, followed by simplified customs procedures for 
imports, var ious reductions of import taxes2 and the elimination of import bans .3 On the export 
side, the elimination and simplification of customs procedures, as well as the eliminations of an 
export duty and an export ban , were recorded.  
3.8.  The trade coverage of the i mport -facilitating measures recorded during the review period was 
US$107.3  billion, i.e. 0.68% of the value of world merchandise imports.4 The HS Chapters within 
which the majority of trade -facilitating measures were taken include machinery and mechanical 
appliances (HS84) 18.2%, pharmaceutical products (HS30) 16.6%, electrical machinery and parts 
thereof (HS85) 12.1% and mineral fuels and oils (HS27) 5.2%.5 
                                                
1 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.  
2 E.g. taxes on: used vehicles, donkey skins, products of animal origins and fats and oils.  
3 E.g. QRs applied on: second hand goods, flat -rolled products of iron or non -alloy steel, miscellaneous 
edible preparations and eggs.  
 4 2016 figures. The  trade cov erage of a measure is calculated to be the value of annual imports of the 
specific product concerned from countries affected by the measure. The share of this value is calculated over 
the total world merchandise imports. Highly -traded goods may significant ly influence the estimation of the 
trade coverage. The trade coverage calculation includes: one measure by China (reduction of interim tariffs) 
accounting for 27.5% of the total, two measures by Brazil (reduction of import tariffs on capital goods) 
account ing for 18.2% of the total, and one measure by Colombia (temporary elimination of import tariffs on 
raw materials and capital goods) accounting for 17.6% of the total . 
5 These figures do not include import -facilitating measures implemented in the context o f the ITA 
Expansion Agreement.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 23 - 
 
  Table 3.1 Measures facilitating trade (Annex 1)  
Type of measure  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
Mid-Oct 16 to 
mid-Oct 17  
(WT/TPR/OV/20)  
Mid-Oct 17 to 
mid-May 18 
(7 months)  
Import  171 137 172 202 148 113 110 74 
- Tariff 149 107 143 160 113 92 94 51 
- Customs procedures  12 25 17 31 28 19 14 17 
- Tax 2 4 2 6 4 2 2 3 
- QRs 7 1 10 5 1 0 0 3 
- Other  1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 
Export  17 8 9 40 33 24 18 15 
- Duties  7 3 3 18 5 1 2 1 
- QRs 8 4 3 3 2 2 1 1 
- Other  2 1 3 19 26 21 15 13 
Other  6 1 1 4 3 0 0 0 
Total  194 146 182 246 184 137 128 89 
Average per month  16.2 12.2 15.2 20.5 15.3 11.4 10.7 12.7 
Note:  Revisions of the data reflect changes undertaken in the TMDB to fine -tune and update the available 
information. Facilitating measures now mainly cover Annex 1 measures and those Annex 3 measures 
which have been reported as terminated by Members.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.9.  Contrary to the two previous R eports which reported on the very significant trade coverage of 
measures resulting from the implementation of the ITA Ex pansion Agreement  (Section 3.8) , the 
present review period includ es only one such measure, i.e. by Guatemala . 
3.1.2   Trade Remedy Actions6 
3.10.   During the review period, 265 trade remedy actions were recorded ( Table 3.2), i.e. 62% of 
the total of all trade measures recorded in this Report.7 A comprehensive overview of these trade 
remedy measures can be found in Annex 2. Members continue to initiate a significantly higher 
number of new trade remedy investigations compared to the number of trade remedy actions they 
terminate.8 Initiations of trade remedy investigations during the review period outpaced 
terminations of trade remedy actions by a ratio of almost two -to-one. Overall, initiations of trade 
remedy investigations alone  represented 40% of the total number of trade measures recorded in 
this Report. The monthly average of initiations of trade remedy actions b etween mid -October 2017 
and mid -May 2018 is broadly similar  to the year 2017.  The monthly average of terminations is  
higher compared to the previous period overview.  
3.11.   The trade remedy actions taken during the review period covered a wide range of products. 
In the case of initiations of investigations, the main sectors were iron and steel (HS72) 40.2%, 
plastics and artic les thereof (HS39) 11.2%, vehicles, parts and accessories thereof (HS87) 10.2%, 
articles of iron and steel (HS73) 9% and electrical machinery and parts thereof (HS85) 6%.  
                                                
6 The coverage of trade remedy actions in this Report does not prejudge the right of WTO Members to 
take trade remedy actions.  
 7 A single methodology for the counting of AD and CVD investigations is being applied across the  
Report, i.e. on the basis of the number of exporting countries or customs territories affected by an 
investigation or by a termination. Thus, one AD or CVD investigation involving imports from n 
countries/customs territories is counted as n investigations . Similarly, the termination of an AD or CVD action 
is counted as n terminations.  
8 Termination means either the termination of the investigation (without imposition of a measure) or 
elimination of the imposed measure.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 24 - 
 
  3.12.   The trade coverage of trade -remedy initiations introduced during the review period by  WTO 
Members was US$52.7 billion (0.33% of world merchandise imports). For terminations, the trade 
coverage 9 was valued at US$6.8 billion (0.04% of world merchandise imports).  
Table 3.2 Trade remedy actions ( Annex 2)  
Type of measure  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
Mid-Oct 16 to 
mid-Oct 17  
(WT/TPR/OV/20)  
Mid-Oct 17 to 
mid-May 18 
(7 months)  
Initiations  255 338 304 277 343 297 301 173 
- AD 208 287 236 229 298 248 251 137 
- CVD 23 33 45 31 34 41 42 28 
- SG 24 18 23 17 11 8 8 8 
Average per month  21.3 28.2 25.3 23.1 28.6 24.8 25.1 24.7 
Terminations  208 186 221 212 173 153 125 92 
- AD 177 160 186 167 143 123 108 74 
- CVD 21 17 23 25 15 13 12 14 
- SG 10 9 12 20 15 17 5 4 
Average per month  17.3  15.5  18.4  17.7  14.4  12.8 10.3 13.1 
Note:  The information on trade remedy actions for 2012 -17 is based on the semi -annual notifications by 
WTO Members. For January 2018 to mid -May 2018, the information is based on the responses and 
the verification received directly from WTO Members. Anti -circumvention measures are not included 
in the above numbers.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.1.3   Other Trade and Trade -Related Measures  
3.13.   Annex 3 to this Report lists measures which may be considered to have a trade -restrictive 
effect.  During the review period, 75 new trade -restrictive measures were recorded, representing 
17% of the total number reported in Annexes 1 to 3  (Table 3.3). The monthly average of almost 
11 trade-restrictive measures is higher compared to the average of nine measures recorded for 
the previous Report.  
3.14.   Out of the total number of the measures rec orded in Annex 3, almost 90% were applied to 
imports. Tariff increases account for more than two -thirds of all import restrictive measures, 
followed by a range of quantitative restrictions  (QRs)10, imposition of import taxes11, and stricter 
customs procedure s. With respect to export, the majority of measures taken were QRs12, followed 
by duties.13  
3.15.   The other trade and trade -related measures recorded in Annex 3, and which may be 
considered trade -restrictive, cover a wide range of products. The main sectors were mineral fuels 
and oils (HS27) 26.5%, electrical equipment and parts thereof (HS85) 19.9%, iron and steel 
(HS72) 10%, vehicles, parts and accessories thereof (HS87) 9.4%, and aluminium and articles 
thereof (HS76) 9%. The trade coverage of the import -restric tive measures14 introduced during the 
review period was US$84.5 billion, i.e.  0.53% of the value of world merchandise imports.  
                                                
9 2016 figures.  
10 E.g. QRs applied on seal skins, fruits and vegetables, medication, animal feed, food products, 
electrical appliances, machinery, and second hand garments.  
11 E.g. social welfare surcharge, synthetic greenhouse gas levies, and taxes on perfumes, motorcycles , 
machinery and mechanical appliances, and miscellaneous edible preparations.  
12 E.g. QRs on iron and steel ferrous waste and scrap, palm oil, vegetable products, and prepared 
foodstuffs.  
13 E.g. duties on tungsten and cermet waste and scrap.  
14 2016 figure s. The trade coverage calculation includes: one measure by Mexico (mandatory prior 
import authorization for oil products) accounting for 26.5% of the total, and one measure by India (increase of 
import tariffs on several products) accounting for 14.4%.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 25 - 
 
   
Table 3.3 Other trade and trade -related measures (Annex 3)  
Type of measure  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
Mid-Oct 16 to 
mid-Oct 17 
Mid-Oct 17 to 
mid-May 18 
(7 months)  
Import  124 131 125 169 99 78 78 65 
- Tariff 70 82 77 105 64 48 46 44 
- Customs procedures  32 26 18 30 16 19 21 5 
- Tax 6 5 8 16 6 3 3 8 
- QRs 14 16 7 12 12 7 7 8 
- Other  2 2 15 6 1 1 1 0 
Export   22 31 25 44 20 19 17 7 
- Duties  3 5 11 13 6 5 5 2 
- QRs 12 10 8 7 10 8 7 4 
- Other  7 16 6 24 4 6 5 1 
Other  13 7 12 15 13 13 13 3 
- Othera 8 1 1  4 1 1 2 
- Local content  5 6 11 15 9 12 12 1 
Total  159 169 162 228 132 110 108 75 
Average per month  13.3  14.1  13.5  19.0  11.0  9.2 9.0 10.7 
a Other than local content measures.  
Note:  Revisions of the data reflect changes undertaken in the TMDB to fine -tune and update the available 
information.   
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Chart 3.1 Overview of trade measures, mid -October 2017 to mid -May 2018  
(by number)  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
173 92 89 75 
Trade remedy initiations Trade remedy terminations
Measures facilitating trade Trade-restrictive measures429Chart 04.KF
Trade measures, mid -October 2017 to mid -May 2018
Source:  WTO SecretariatWT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 26 - 
 
  Chart 3.2 Trade coverage of import measures, mid -October 2017 to mid -May 2018  
(US$ billion)  
 
Note:  2016 figures. ITA expansion measures are not included.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.16.   The above Sections have provided detailed information on the latest trends am ong WTO 
Members in trade policy -making and has confirmed a number of findings of previous reports. For 
example, the numerical importance of trade remedy measures, AD measures in particular, in the 
overall number of trade and trade -related measures is fully consist ent with previous reports.  
3.17.   This Report has recorded a moderate increase in the monthly average of import -facilitating 
measures. Although this is an encouraging development for global trade at this point, it is of 
concern th at the monthly average of trade -restrictive measures recorded has also increased 
compared to the previous Report. While the estimated trade coverage for import -restrictive 
measures is lower than that of import -facilitating measures, it should be noted that in the 
November 2017 Report thi s relationship wa s two -to-one in favour of trade -liberalizing measures. 
The fact that this ratio has fallen significantly for the current review period is a source of 
considerable concern and an area where continued monitoring is required.  
3.18.   Two trade measur es by the United States on steel and aluminium products, following an 
investigation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 , were implemented within the 
review period and received considerable attention. A number of measures were taken or 
announced in response to the above tariffs. The majority of these measures did not enter into 
force before 15 May 2018 and as a result do not feature in the Annexes to this Report. The WTO 
Secretariat will continue to monitor this situation and seek further in formation on these measures.  
3.19.   On a more general note, although this Report has confirmed a number of important trends 
in global trade policy -making, including the fact that WTO Memb ers continue to implement 
trade -facilitating measures, there are strong reasons for concern. At a juncture where the global 
economy is finally looking to generate sustained economic momentum , the uncertainty create d by 
the proliferation of trade -restrictive actions and the reaction to them could place an economic 
recovery in j eopardy. These developments will be closely monitored in the Overview of 
Developments in the International Trading Environment at the end of 2018.  
3.20.   The box below on the effects of non -tariff measures on prices and volumes of trade has 
been contributed by th e OECD.  
53 7 107 85 
Trade remedy initiations Trade remedy terminations
Measures facilitating trade Trade-restrictive measuresUS$251Chart 05.KF
Trade coverage of import measures, mid -October 2017 to mid -May 2018
Source: WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 27 - 
 
  Box 3.1 Effects of non -tariff measures on prices and volumes of trade  
The term "non-tariff measures " (NTMs) covers a diverse set of measures in terms of purpose, legal form and 
economic effect. This dive rsity makes their quantitative analysis difficult, and they have been the object of 
substantial academic and policy attention. NTMs comprise all policy measures other than tariffs and tariff -rate 
quotas that have a more or less direct incidence on internat ional trade as they affect the price of traded 
products, the quantity traded, or both. Most importantly, domestic regulations may prescribe specific 
requirements for products to be sold on a given market. Generally, such measures aim to overcome or reduce 
the impacts of market imperfections, such as those related to negative externalities, risks for human, animal or 
plant health, or information asymmetries. However, they also tend to increase production and trade costs and 
may affect, positively or negative ly, the development of new technologies or production methods. These costs 
tend to be particularly burdensome for SMEs.  
New OECD estimates disentangle the distinct effects that NTMs can have on trade volumes versus prices. The 
econometric estimates disting uish five different types of NTMs, following the UNCTAD MAST classification: 
technical regulations in the areas of SPS, TBT and pre -shipment inspection as well as quantitative import 
restrictions such as quotas and non -automatic licensing. The price -based estimations yield a large set of 
ad valorem  tariff-equivalents  (AVEs) that are specific for bilateral trade between more than  80 countries and 
roughly 5, 000 products. The average AVEs across countries are found to range from 29% (processed food) to 
6% (mac hinery and electrical equipment).  
The volume -based estimates, also proxied by AVEs, yield information that show how the trade cost associated 
with NTMs typically reduces trade volumes, but not always. In a number of cases, in particular in the SPS area, 
trade is found to expand, even though trade costs rise. This trade enhancing effect can come from regulatory 
features that reduce information asymmetries and strengthen consumer confidence in imported products.  
 
A growing body of evidence suggests that reduc ing regulatory heterogeneity  reduces trade costs. Indeed, the 
OECD study confirms the negative relationship between greater regulatory similarity (measured as the 
regulatory distance between pairs of countries ' MAST classifications for particular product NTMs) and the size 
of the AVEs. Complying with regulations is hardly ever costless, but this finding re -iterates the fact that costs 
that stem solely from regulatory differences between countries add to costs an d thus their reduction, through 
various regulatory co -operation mechanisms, could expand trade, particularly for SMEs.  
 
Price effect versus regulatory distance with partners  
 
 
 
______________  
Note:  Regulatory similarity is measured by scoring the degree to which a country pair has the same measure 
 on a given HS6 product (index =1) or not (index = 0) and subsequently aggregating a normalizing to a 
 number between zero and one.  
Further reading:  
OECD (2 017), International Regulatory Co -operation and Trade: Understanding the Trade Costs of Regulatory 
Divergence and the Remedies , OECD Publishing, Paris, http://dx.doi.org/10.1787/9789264275942 -en . 
 
OECD (2018), Combining price -based and quantity -based approaches , TAD/TC/WP (2017)12/FINAL  
Cadott, O., J. Gourdon, F. van Tongeren (2018), Estimating Ad Valorem Equivalents of Non -Tariff Measures: 
Combining price -based and quantity -based approaches , OECD Trade Policy papers, no 215, 
http://dx.doi.org/10.1787/18166873  
Source:  OECD (2018)  
WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 28 - 
 
  3.2  Trade -Remedies15 
3.21.   This section provides an assessment of trends in trade -remedy actions in the periods from 
January - December 2015, January - December 2016 and January - December 2017 .16 Concerning 
anti-dumping, in 2017 data indicate a decrease in the number of new investig ations initiated. The 
number of countervailing investigations initiated increased significantly between 2015 and 2017,  
while the number of safeguard investigations initiated  fell. The total number of initiations for the 
latter two types of trade -remedy inv estigations remained considerably lower than for 
anti-dumping.  
Anti-Dumping Measures17 
3.22.   Global ly, anti-dumping initiations significantly increased between 2015 and 2016 , from 229 
to 298, before decreasing to 248 in 2017 (Table 3.4). The table also provides more information on 
which Members initiated anti -dumping investigations.  
Table 3.4 Initiations of anti -dumping investigations  
Reporting Member  2015  2016  2017  
Argentina  6 23 8 
Australia  10 17 16 
Brazil  23 11 7 
Canada  3 14 14 
Chile 2 1 1 
China  11 5 24 
Colombia  7 1 8 
Costa Rica  1 1 0 
Dominican Republic  0 1 0 
Egypt  4 14 0 
El Salvador  0 1 1 
European Union  11 14 9 
India 30 69 49 
Indonesia  6 7 1 
Israel  1 1 3 
Japan  2 1 2 
Korea, Republic of  4 4 7 
Malaysia  14 0 4 
Mexico  9 6 8 
Morocco  2 4 1 
New Zealand  0 0 2 
Pakistan  12 24 3 
Paraguay  0 1 0 
Peru 1 0 3 
Philippines  0 1 0 
Russian Federationa 1 1 1 
Saudi  Arabia, Kingdom of; Bahrain, Kingdom of; Kuwait; 
Oman, State of; Qatar; United Arab Emiratesb 1 0 4 
Chinese  Taipei  0 8 0 
Thailand  7 10 3 
                                                
15 This section is without prejudice to the right of Members to take trade remedy actions under the 
WTO.  
16 These periods coincide with the Member's semi -annual reporting periods . 
17 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/customs territories is counted as n investigations.   
 WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 29 - 
 
  Reporting Member  2015  2016  2017  
Turkey  16 17 8 
Ukraine  2 1 7 
United States  42 37 54 
Uruguay  1 0 0 
Viet Nam  0 3 0 
Total  229 298 248 
a Notified by the Russian Federation; investigations are initiated by the Eurasian Economic Union 
(EAEU) on behalf of all of its members collectively.  
b Investigations are initiated at the level of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).  
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
3.23.   Chart 3.3 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, 
then climbed in 2016 to 298 investigations. This is the highest number of initiations since the 311 
of 2002, but still off the all -time high of 372 in 2001. In 2017 the number of initiations decreased 
by 17% to 248.  
Chart 3.3 Total anti -dumping investigation initiations  
 
Source:   WTO Secretariat .  
3.24.   While anti -dumping investigations do not necessarily lead to the imposition of measures, the 
significant rise in the number of investigations initiated is an important indicator of a likely rise in 
the number of measures imposed. Between 2015 and 2017 , a total of 546 anti -dumping measures 
were imposed (as shown in  Table 3.5). How ever, as it can t ake up to 18 months for an 
anti-dumping investigation to be concluded, these measures may not necessarily be the result of 
initiations in the same period.   
218 217
173
165208287
236
229298
248
050100150200250300
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017Chart TR.1
Total anti -dumping investigation initiations
Source:    WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 30 - 
 
  Table 3.5 Number of anti-dumping measures imposed  
Reporting Member  2015  2016  2017  
Argentina  11 1 2 
Australia  10 5 14 
Brazil  31 13 10 
Canada  13 3 10 
Chile 0 1 2 
China  5 11 5 
Colombia  2 1 1 
Costa Rica  0 0 1 
Dominican Republic  0 0 1 
Egypt  1 4 6 
European Union  10 5 11 
India 38 37 47 
Indonesia  6 0 3 
Israel  0 1 0 
Japan  1 2 1 
Korea, Republic of  3 3 4 
Malaysia  5 5 0 
Mexico  9 12 2 
Morocco  1 0 3 
Pakistan  1 2 12 
Peru 1 1 0 
Philippines  1 0 1 
Russian Federationa 5 4 1 
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of; Bahrain, Kingdom of; 
Kuwait, State of; Oman; Qatar; United Arab 
Emiratesb 0 0 1 
South Africac 5 0 0 
Chinese  Taipei  0 8 0 
Thailand  0 5 7 
Trinidad and Tobago  0 1 0 
Turkey  7 9 10 
Ukraine  1 2 3 
United States  14 35 33 
Viet Nam  0 0 3 
Total  181 171 194 
a Notified by the Russian Federation; measures are imposed at the level of the EAEU.  
b Measures are imposed at the level of the GCC.  
c Notified by South Africa; measures are imposed at the level of the SACU.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.25.   Chart 3.4 shows that there was little change in terms o f the products affected by 
anti-dumping investigations initiated over the last three years , with the majority of initiations 
focused on products  in the metals, chemicals, and plastics and rubber sectors.  
3.26.   Metal products were subject to the most initiations in each period, accounting for 46% of all 
initiations in  2015, 43% in 2016 and 32% in  2017. In each period, at least 80 initiations targeted 
metals, of which 93% focused on steel products (goods classified under chapters 72 and 73 of the 
HS classification). Over all, between 2015 and 2017, the United States (79), Australia (33), the 
European Union (22), Thailand (19), Malaysia (18), Canada (17), a nd Mexico (17) accounted for 
two-thirds of 314 initiations on metals. An increase in the number of initiations against metal 
products was seen in 2017, with 28 investigations initiated by the United States and 15 by 
Australia. Initiations against metals ac ross the three periods affected mostly products from China 
(91, of which 82 involved steel products), the Republic of Korea (29, of which 28 involved steel), 
India (17, of which 16 involved steel) and Viet  Nam (16, of which 14 involved steel). In many 
instances, investigations were launched on the same product from several exporting countries. For 
instance, five steel products were the focus of 77 investigations.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 31 - 
 
  Chart 3.4 Anti-dumping initiations by product  
 
 
 
 
Note:  Values are rounded.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
3.27.   Chemical products accounted for the second -largest share of initiations over the three 
reporting periods, with a 17% share of initiations in 2015 and 2016  and a 2 6% share in  2017. 
India accounted for 60 of the 153 new investigations on products in this sector over the three 
periods, followed by China (18) and the United States (13). The initiations involved mostly 
chemical products from China (29) and the Republic of Korea (19). A s with the metals sector, 
investigations into chemicals frequently involved the same product from different countries – 12 
products accounted for 69 of the investigations in this area.  
3.28.   Plastics and rubber ranked third over the three periods examined, acco unting for 10% of all 
initiations in 2015, 12% in  2016 and 11% in  2017. Almost one quarter of the 88 plastics and 
rubber investigations were initiated by the United States (19), followed by Brazil (13) and India 
(10). China was once again the main subject  of investigations in this sector (19), followed by the 
Republic of Korea (11), India (6) and Thailand (6).  
Chart TR.2
Anti-dumping initiations by product
2015 2016
Chemicals
17%Plastics 
10%Metals
46%
Other
12%Metals
43%
Chemicals
17%Plastics
12%Other
6%Machinery
3%Paper
3%
Paper
6%Textiles
5%Glass/Ceramics
5%Textiles
4%Glass/Ceramics
5%Machinery
5%
Source: WTO Secretariat.2017
Chemicals
26%Textiles
10%Metals
32%Glass/Seramics
2%
Plastics
11%Other
10%
Note: Values are rounded.Paper
4%Machinery
3%WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 32 - 
 
  3.29.   In terms of countries affected by new anti -dumping investigations, 42 exporting Members 
were affected in 2015 , while 43 were affected in 2016 and 49  in 2017. China remained, by far, the 
most frequent ly target ed in anti-dumping initiations during the three reporting periods – 
investigations into Chinese products accounted for 28% of all investigations during these periods. 
The second most affected Member between 2015 and 2017  – the Republic of Korea – accounted 
for 9% of the total initiations during these periods, followed by India at 5%.  
Countervailing Measures  
3.30.   As shown in Table 3.6, global initiations of counte rvailing duty investigations increased 
significantly to 41 in 2017 compared to 34 in 2016.  Between 2015 and 2017 , 92% of 
countervailing investigations were conducted concurrently with an anti -dumping investigation.   
3.31.   Among the twelve Members initiating countervailing measures between 2015 and 2017 , the 
United States initiated the most new investigations (63), accounting for 59% of initiations. 
Canada, the second largest user, accounted for 15% , and Australia for 9%. The remaining 
investigations were conducte d by nine different countries.  
Table 3.6 Initiations of countervailing duty investigations  
Reporting Member  2015  2016  2017  
Australia  2 8 0 
Brazil  0 1 1 
Canada  3 2 11 
China  0 1 1 
Egypt  0 2 0 
European Union  2 1 2 
India 0 1 0 
New Zealand  0 1 1 
Pakistan  0 1 0 
Peru 0 0 1 
Turkey  1 0 0 
United States  23 16 24 
Total  31 34 41 
Note:  Counted on the basis of exporting countries or customs territories affected.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
3.32.   Chart 3.5, reflecting annual figures, shows an upward trend in countervailing initiations from 
2010 to 2014, notwithstanding some fluctuation in 2012. The number of initiations recorded in 
2014 (45) ex ceeded the previous peak of 41 initiations observed in 1999.18 The number of 
countervailing initiations has steadily increased for the last three years.  
                                                
18 Report to the TPRB from th e Director -General on the Financial and Economic Crisis and Trade Related 
Developments, 26  March  2009, p. 18.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 33 - 
 
  Chart 3.5 Countervailing investigation initiations  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
3.33.   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. Between 2015 and 2017 , a total of 
57 countervailing measures were imposed ( Table 3.7). However, as it can take up to 18 months 
for an investigation to be conc luded, these measures may not necessarily be the result of 
initiations in the same period.  
Table 3.7 Number of countervailing measures imposed  
Reporting Member  2015  2016  2017  
Australia  2 1 3 
Brazil  0 1 0 
Canada  2 2 1 
China  0 0 1 
European Union  1 1 1 
India 0 1 1 
Peru 0 1 0 
Ukraine  0 1 0 
United States  10 16 11 
Total  15 24 18 
Source:  WTO Secretariat  
3.34.   Concerning the products affected by countervailing investigations, Chart 3.6 shows that 
metals accounted for most of the initiations reported between 2015 and 2017 , accounting for 77%, 
59% and 37% of all initiations, respectively. For the three periods combined, 58 of the 106 total 
initiations recorded covered metals and 48 of these targ eted steel products. The United  States 
initiated 28 of the 48 investigations on steel products. Five of the 11 steel -related initiations in 
2017 involve pro ducts from China.   
3.35.   Plastics and chemicals were the second -most investigated sectors between 2015 and 2017, 
with 14 initiations for each, followed by paper products with 6 initiations.  
1628
925
233345
313441
05101520253035404550
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017Chart TR.3
Countervailing investigation initiations
Source:      WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 34 - 
 
  Chart 3.6 Countervailing  duty initiations by product  
 
 
 
Source:   WTO Secretariat.  
3.36.   In terms of countries or customs territories affected by new countervailing investigations, 
12 exporting Members were affected in 2015 , 11 in 2016  and 19 in 2017 . China was the most 
frequent target of investigations, accounting for 37% of all investigations between 2015 and 2017 . 
India, the second most frequent target , accounted for 16% of all initiations, followed  by Turkey, 
which accounted for  7%. 
Chart TR.4
Countervailing duty initiations by product
2015 2016
Paper
6%
Metals
77%Metals
59%
Plastics
15%Plastics
10%Other
3% Other
15%Paper
10%
Chemicals
6%
Source: WTO Secretariat.2017
Other
20%
Metals
37%
Chemicals
29%Plastics
15%WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 35 - 
 
  Sunset Reviews  
3.37.   This Section examines the effect the global financial crisis may have had on anti -dumping 
(AD) and countervailing actions (CVD), by analy sing the extent to which measures imposed 
following the financial crisis have been extended or have expired (or have otherwis e been 
terminated) - suggesting that the financial crisis could have been a factor that contributed to the 
imposition of the measure. This Section, therefore, examines measures imposed as a result of 
investigations initiated in 2008, before the financial c risis, as well as 2009 and 2010, when the full 
effects of the financial crisis were being felt.19  
3.38.   The relevant WTO Agreements stipulate that AD and CVD measures can remain in force only 
for as long as necessary to counteract injury caused by dumped or subsidized  imports. In addition, 
they must expire no later than five years after their imposition unless it is determined, through a 
review, that removal of a measure would likely lead to a continuation or recurrence of dumping or 
subsidization  and injury. In such a case, the measure can be extended for up to a further five 
years. This review process is often referred to as a sunset review. Investigating authorities 
generally invite applications for a sunset review before a measure expires, and in the absence o f a 
review, they allow the measure to lapse.   
3.39.   As at 31 December 2017, measures imposed as a result of i nvestigations initiated in 
2008-2010 were in various stages of their lifecycle , with s ome under review20, some be ing 
extended and some hav ing expired. Chart 3.7 shows the status as at 31  December  2017 of AD and 
CVD measures resulting from investigations initiated in 2008, 2009 and 2010 by WTO Members.  
Chart 3.7 Status of measures resulting from AD and CVD investigations initiated in 2008, 
2009 and 2010  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.40.   All of the 168 measures resulting from investigations initiated by WTO Members in 2008 
have now been subject to expiry action ( either a sunset review or termination), along with all of 
                                                
19 Given the application requirements for AD and CVD investigations, it is assumed that investigations in 
response to the financial crisis would no t have been initiated before January 2009.  
20 A sunset review must be initiated prior to the expiration date of the measure, but the measure may 
remain in force after this date pending the outcome of the review.  
020406080100120140160180
2008 2009 2010
Original measure Under review Extended No longer in effectChart TR.5
Status of measures resulting from AD and CVD investigations initiated in 
2008, 2009 and 2010
Source:   WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 36 - 
 
  the 166 measures for 2009. Only one of the 113 measures resulting from investigations initiated in 
2010 has not yet been subject to any expiry action.  
Table 3.8 Proportion of expiring measures that were subject to a sunset review for all 
WTO Members (based on the year the investigation was initiated)  
Expiring measures  Investigation initiated in  
2008  2009  2010a 
Not reviewed  36% 28% 22% 
Reviewed  64% 72% 78% 
a Only 81 measures resulting from investigations initiated in 2010 have so far expired or been subject 
to review.  
Note:  Based on the year the investigation was initiated.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.41.   Table 3.8 shows the proportion of measures that were due to expire for which a sunset 
review has been conducted. Measures not reviewed will automatically expire. For measures 
resulting from investigati ons initiated in 2009 ("the 2009 measures"), 72% were reviewed, higher 
than the 64% found for 2008 ("the 2008 measures") ; however, there is insufficient information to 
determine whether this difference is significant.  
3.42.   As at 31 December 2017, 107 sunset rev iews had been completed for measures resulting 
from investigations initiated in 2008, 120 for 2009 and 64 for 2010 ( Table 3.9). Available 
information suggests that the expiry of the measure would lead to a continuation or recurrence of 
dumping/subsidization and injury and, as a result, governments 89% of the 2008 me asures and 
84% of the 2009 measures  were extended, i.e.  no significant change after the financial crisis 
began. Preliminary data for 2010 remain broadly along the same lines. In other words, based on 
the data currently available, there is no discernible ch ange in extension versus expiry of measures 
coinciding with the financial crisis.  
Table 3.9 Results from completed reviews (based on the year the investigation was initiated)  
 Investigation initiated in  
 2008  2009  2010  
Number of completed reviews  107 120 64 
Measure extended  89% 84% 63% 
Expiry of measure  11% 16% 16% 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Safeguard measures  
3.43.   Unlike AD and CVD measures, 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 exporting countries.  Thus, safeguards are subject to different rules and timelines 
than AD and CVD measures , and are not directly comparable to these other type s of trade 
remedies.  
3.44.   Chart 3.8 shows the recent trend of initiations of safeguard investigations. Setting aside the 
exceptionally large figure (34) recorded in 2002, the year 2009 saw the largest number of 
safeguard initiations (25) since 1995 (in 2000 25 initiations were also recorded ), and the years 
2012 an d 2014 saw the second and third -largest. From that high level, initiations of safeguard 
investigations have declined for three consecutive years and its major users have remained 
relatively inactive. For example, Indonesia, which ha d been imposing on average three safeguard 
measures per year between 2011 and 2015, did not impose any measure in 2016 or 2017.  
Conversely , new users have appeared ; for example, the GCC countries initiated three safeguard 
investigations in 2016 and 2017 . Table 3.10 shows the breakdown of the Members that initiated 
these investigations. The United States, whose last safeguard investigation was in 2001, in itiated 
two safeguard investigations in 2017; i.e. one on solar cells and one on washing machines.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 37 - 
 
  Chart 3.8 Safeguard investigation initiations (2008 -2017)  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
Table 3.10 Initiations of safeguard measures  
(number of new investigations)  
Reporting Member  2015  2016  2017  
Chile 4 0 0 
China  0 1 0 
Egypt  2 0 0 
India 2 1 1 
Indonesia  1 0 0 
Jordan  0 1 0 
Malaysia  1 2 0 
Morocco  1 0 0 
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom ofa 0 2 1 
South Africab 0 2 0 
Thailand  0 1 0 
Tunisia  1 0 0 
Turkey  1 0 2 
Ukraine  1 0 1 
United States  0 0 2 
Viet Nam  2 1 1 
Zambia  1 0 0 
Total  17 11 8 
a  Investigations are initiated at the level of the GCC.  
b  Notified by South Africa; investigations are initiated by SACU on behalf of all of its members 
collectively.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
1025
20
1224
1823
17
11
8
051015202530
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Source:  WTO Secretariat.Chart TR.7
Safeguard investigation initiations, 2008 -2017WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 38 - 
 
  3.45.   The decline in the number of initiations is mainly driven by the fact that Members that 
previously often resort ed to safeguard  actions  now do so less often. In dia, having initiated the 
most investigations in the years 2014 and 2015, initiated only one in 2016 and one in 2017.  
3.46.   On the other hand, imposition figures paint a different picture. There were 10 impositions in 
2017, which takes the level almost back to the same as the recent highs of 11 impositions 
recorded in 2011, 2014 and 2015.  
Table 3.11 Imposition of safeguard measures by calendar year  
Year Number  Year Number  Year Number  
2000 7 2006 7 2012 6 
2001 9 2007 5 2013 8 
2002 14 2008 6 2014 11 
2003 15 2009 10 2015 11 
2004 6 2010 4 2016 6 
2005 6 2011 11 2017 10 
Note:  Some notifications are ambiguous about the timing when the measure takes effect. For those 
notifications, Members sometimes subsequently file an additional notification clarifying, ex post , the 
timing of the taking effect. For this reason, the number of im position s indicated in past Reports can 
differ from the figures indicated in the most recent Report.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
3.47.   Chart 3.9 shows the products covered by these investigations. The number of investigations 
initiated in the metals sector (the vast majority of which involve steel products) dropped to zero in 
2017. It s share ha d been rapidly rising from 35% (in 2014), to 53% (in 2015), and then to 91% in 
2016. While this drop does not mean that safeguard measures in the metal sector have saturated, 
it marks a notable break from the trend.  
 
3.48.   Further to the initiation of the two safeguard investigations in 2017 , the U nited States 
imposed these two measures in February 2018 (th ese are not included in the statistics above). The 
last time the United States imposed a safeguard measure was in March 2002 (on steel products).  
Also not included in the statistics above is the European Union's  safeguard investigation on steel 
products in March 2018. The last time the European Union initiated a safeguard investigation was 
in 2002 (on steel products).  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 39 - 
 
  Chart 3.9 Safeguard initiations by product  
 
 
 
Source:   WTO Secretariat.  
3.3  Sanitary and phytosanitary measures21 
3.49.   Under the SPS Agreement, WTO Members are obliged to provide advance notice of intention 
to introduce new or modified SPS measures22, or to notify immediately when emergency measures 
                                                
21 Information presented in this Section has b een retrieved from the SPS Information Management 
System (SPS IMS: http://spsims.wto.org ). This Section is based on notifications to the WTO for the period 
1 October 2017 to 31 March 2018. Specific trade concerns (STCs ) are only raised at SPS Committee meetings. 
The information in this Section summarizes the STCs raised at the 2 -3 November 2017 and 1 -2 March 2018 
SPS Committee meetings.  
22 Transparency obligations are contained in Article 7 and Annex B of the SPS Agreement. Annex B of 
the Agreement requires that Members notify measures whose content is not substantially the same as that of 
an international standard, guideline or recommendat ion, and when the measure may have a significant effect 
on trade.  However, the Recommended Procedures for Implementing the Transparency Provisions of the SPS 
Agreement, adopted by the SPS Committee in 2008 (G/SPS/7/Rev.3), recommend that Members also noti fy 
Chart 3.9 Safeguard initiations by product
2015 2016
Paper
6%
Metals
53%
Metals
91%Foodstuff
12%Chemicals
6%
Plastics
12%Glass/Ceramics
12%Foodstuff
9%
Source: WTO Secretariat.2017
Chemicals
38% Plastics
13%
Machinery
38%Miscellaneous 
manuf.
13%WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 40 - 
 
  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 trade. Therefore, an 
increased num ber of notifications does not automatically imply greater use of protectionist 
measures, but rather enhanced transparency regarding these measures.  
3.50.   From October 2017 to March 201823, 764 SPS notifications (regular and emergency, 
including addenda) were subm itted to the WTO. Notifications from developing -country Members 
accounted for 73%  of the total number. In the previous six -month period, from April through 
September  2017, a total of 663 notifications were submitted, of which 65% were by 
developing -country  Members. Consequently, in the period under review, there has been a 12% 
increase in the share of notifications made by developing -country Members as compared to the 
previous six -month period.  
3.51.   With respect to regular notifications (including addenda) durin g the period under review, 
WTO Members submitted 652 notifications , 70% of which were submitted by developing -country 
Members. In the previous six -month period, from April through September 2017, a total of 551 
regular notifications were submitted, of whic h 60% were by developing -country Members. Overall, 
during the period under review, there was an 18% increase in the total number of regular 
notifications.  
3.52.   The total number of notifications of emergency measures as well as the share of emergency 
notificatio ns submitted by developing -country Members remained stable as compared with the 
previous period ( Chart 3.10). In the review period, 92% of the 1 12 notifications of emergency 
measures were submitted by developing -country Members, a similar share to that recorded 
between April and September 2017. This high proportion of emergency measures notified by 
developing -country Members might stem from the fact  that they do not have as extensive SPS 
regulatory systems as developed -country Members. Consequently, when facing emergency 
challenges, they are relatively more likely to have to introduce new regulations or change existing 
ones.  
Chart 3.10 Number of SPS notifications, including regular, emergency and addenda  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat . 
3.53.   Many Members are following the recommendation to notify SPS measures even when these 
are based on a relevant international standard, as this increases transparency. Of the 546 regular 
notifications (excluding addenda) submitted from October 2017 to March 2 018, 252 (48% of the 
                                                                                                                                                  
measures which are based on the relevant international standards, and provide a broad interpretation of 
effects on trade.  
23 For the SPS section, the review period covers 1 October 2017 to 31 March 2018.  
551
333652
454112
98112
103
02004006008001,000
All Members Developing-country
MembersAll Members Developing-country
MembersChart SPS.1
Number of SPS notifications, including regular, emergency and addenda
Source: WTOSecretariat.Regular notifications Emergency notificationsApr. 2017 -Sep. 2017 Oct. 2017 -Mar. 2018WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 41 - 
 
  total) indicated that an international standard, guideline or recommendation was applicable to the 
notified measure. Of these,  58% referred to Codex, 28% to IPPC and 14% to OIE ( Chart 3.11). 
Furthermore, the notification formats include an entry enquiring whether the proposed regulation 
conforms to the relevant international standard. Of the notifications that have identified a relev ant 
international standard, 88% indicated that the measure was in conformity with, or substantially 
the same as, the existing international standard, guideline or recommendation.  
Chart 3.11 Regular SPS notific ations and international standards  
 
Note:  Codex, OIE and IPPC.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Chart 3.12 Emergency SPS notifications and international standards  
 
 
Note:  Codex Alimentarius (Codex), World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and International Plant 
 Protection Convention (IPPC).  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.54.   International standards often provide useful guidance regarding measures to address 
disease outbreaks and other emergency situations. For example, 82% of the 67 emergency 
Codex
58%
OIE
14%
IPPC
28%
Source: WTO Secretariat.Chart SPS.2
Regular SPS notifications and international standards
None
52%Relevant 
international 
standard
48%
Codex
5%
OIE
80%
IPPC
14%
Source: WTO Secretariat.Chart SPS.3
Emergency SPS notifications and international standards
None
18%Relevant 
international 
standard
82%WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 42 - 
 
  notifications (excluding addenda) submitted in the review period indicated that an international 
standard, guideline or recommendation was applicable to the notified measure ( Chart 3.12). All of 
these indicated that the measure was in conformity with the existing international standard.  
3.55.   Of the 546 regular notifications (excluding adden da) submitted during the review period, 
the majority were related to food safety.24 The remaining notifications related to plant protection, 
animal health, the protection of humans from animal diseases or plant pests and the protection of 
the Member's terri tory from other damage from pests. Several of the regular notifications 
identified more than one objective per measure.  
3.56.   Of the 67 emergency measures (excluding addenda), the majority related to animal health, 
followed by food safety, the protection of huma ns from animal diseases or plant pests, plant 
protection and the protection of the Member's territory from other damage from pests. Similarly, 
most of the emergency measures notified identified more than one objective per measure.  
3.57.   While no formal provision  for "counter notification"  exists , concerns regarding the failure to 
notify an SPS measure, or on a notified SPS measure, can be raised as a n STC at any of the three 
regular meetings of the SPS Committee each year. In th e two Committee meetings of 
2-3 November 2017 and 1 -2 March 2018, 12 new STCs were raised. Four of these STCs related to 
food safety, three to animal health, three to plant health, and two to other types of concerns 
(Table 3.12). 
Table 3.12 New SPS STCs raised between November 2017 and March  2018  
STC Document title  Members 
maintaining 
the measure  Members 
raising 
the 
concern  Members 
support ing the 
concern  Date 
raised  Primary 
objective  
428 EU maximum 
residue levels for 
acrinathrin, 
metalaxyl and 
thiabendazole  European 
Union  Peru Bolivia, Plurinational 
State of; Brazil; 
Colombia; Costa 
Rica; Dominican 
Republic; Ecuador; 
Guatemala; Nigeria; 
United States  02/11/2017  Food 
safety  
429 United Arab 
Emirates measures 
on plant protection 
products  United Arab 
Emirates  Turkey   02/11/2017  Plant 
health 
430 EU maximum level 
of cadmium in 
foodstuffs  European 
Union  Peru Colombia; Costa 
Rica; Côte d'Ivoire; 
Dominican Republic; 
Ghana; Guatemala; 
Madagascar; Nigeria  02/11/2017  Food 
safety  
431 South Africa's 
import restrictions 
on poultry due to 
Highly Pathogenic 
Avian Influenza  South Africa  European 
Union   02/11/2017  Animal 
health 
432 EU restrictions on 
poultry meat due to 
Salmonella detection  European 
Union  Brazil   02/11/2017  Food 
safety  
433 Turkey's restrictions 
on rough rice 
imports  Turkey  United 
States   02/11/2017  Plant 
health 
434 India's fumigation 
requirements for 
teak tree wood  India Colombia  Belize; Costa Rica; 
Liberia  02/11/2017  Plant 
health 
                                                
24 The objective of an SPS measure falls under one or more of the following categories:  (i) food safety, 
(ii) animal health, (iii) plant protection, (iv) protect humans from animal/plant pest or disease, and (v)  protect 
territory from other damages from pes ts. 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.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 43 - 
 
  STC Document title  Members 
maintaining 
the measure  Members 
raising 
the 
concern  Members 
support ing the 
concern  Date 
raised  Primary 
objective  
435 Viet Nam's draft 
amendment to 
circular 24 on MRLs 
for veterinary drugs 
- concerns of the  
United States  Viet Nam  United 
States  Canada;  
New Zealand  01/03/2018  Food 
safety 
436 Mexico's market 
access requirement 
for casein products  Mexico  India  01/03/2018  Animal 
health 
437 Kingdom of Saudi 
Arabia's temporary 
ban on the 
importation of fish, 
crustaceans and 
other aquatic animal 
products  Saudi Arabia, 
Kingdom of  Viet Nam   01/03/2018  Animal 
health 
 
438 Viet Nam's market 
access r equirements 
for ''white'' offal  Viet Nam  United 
States  New Zealand  01/03/2018  Other 
concerns  
439 US import 
restrictions on 
apples and pears  United States  European 
Union   01/03/2018  Other 
concerns  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.58.   Twenty -two previously -raised STCs were discussed at the November 2017 or March 2018 
SPS Committee meetings.25 Of these, five addressed persistent problems that have been discussed 
seven times or more, including two STCs which have been discussed 10 and 32 times respectively 
(Table 3.13). In addition, four STCs raised for the first time in November 2017 were discussed 
again in March 2018.26 
Table 3.13 Previously -raised SPS STCs discussed in November  2017 and/or March  2018  
STC Document title  Members 
maintaining 
the 
measure  Members 
raising the 
concern  Members 
supporting the 
concern  First date 
raised  Times 
subsequently  
raised  
184 Lack of 
transparency for 
certain SPS 
measures  China  Israel;  
United States  Australia; 
Canada; Chile; 
Costa Rica; 
European Union; 
Guatemala; 
Japan; Mexico; 
Norway; 
Singapore; 
Switzerland; 
Thailand  01/03/2004  5 
193 General import 
restrictions due to 
BSE  European 
Union;  
United States  Canada; 
Switzerland; 
Uruguay  01/06/2004  32 
271 Restrictions on 
imports of swine 
meat Mexico  Brazil   24/06/2008  3 
                                                
25 Fourteen of the previously raised STCs were discussed in both meetings.  
26 These were ST C 428, STC 430 , STC 431 and STC 432.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 44 - 
 
  STC Document title  Members 
maintaining 
the 
measure  Members 
raising the 
concern  Members 
supporting the 
concern  First date 
raised  Times 
subsequently  
raised  
382 European Union 
revised proposal 
for categorization 
of compounds as 
endocrine 
disruptors  European 
Union  Argentina; 
China;  
United States  Australia; Benin; 
Brazil; Burkina 
Faso; Burundi;  
Canada; Central 
African Republic; 
Chile; Colombia; 
Costa Rica; 
Dominican 
Republic; 
Ecuador; Egypt; 
The Gambia; 
Guatemala; 
Guinea; India; 
Indonesia; 
Jamaica; Kenya; 
Madagascar; 
Malaysia; 
Mexico; New 
Zealand; 
Nigeria; 
Pakistan; 
Paraguay; Peru; 
Philippines; 
Senegal; Sierra 
Leone; South 
Africa; Chinese 
Taipei; Thailand; 
Togo; Uruguay; 
Viet Nam; 
Zambia  25/03/2014  10 
390 The Russian 
Federation's 
import 
restrictions on 
processed fishery 
products from 
Estonia and 
Latvia  Russian 
Federation  European 
Union   15/07/2015  8 
392 China's import 
restrictions due to 
African swine 
fever China  European 
Union   15/07/2015  8 
393 Republic of 
Korea's import 
restrictions due to 
African swine 
fever Korea, 
Republic of  European 
Union   15/07/2015  8 
395 China's proposed 
amendments to 
the 
implementation 
regulations on 
safety 
assessment of 
agricultural GMOs  China  Paraguay; 
United States   15/07/2015  6 
406 China's import 
restrictions due to 
Highly Pathogenic 
Avian Influenza  China  European 
Union; United 
States   16/03/2016  5 
411 Russian 
Federation import 
restrictions on 
certain animal 
products from 
Germany  Russian 
Federation  European 
Union   30/06/2016  5 WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 45 - 
 
  STC Document title  Members 
maintaining 
the 
measure  Members 
raising the 
concern  Members 
supporting the 
concern  First date 
raised  Times 
subsequently  
raised  
415 US seafood 
import monitoring 
programme  United States  China  Chile; Russian 
Federation  27/10/2016  4 
416 China's import  
ban on fresh 
mangosteen  China  Indonesia   27/10/2016  2 
418 Viet Nam's 
suspension of 
groundnut seed 
imports  Viet Nam  Senegal   22/03/2017  2 
421 Thailand's import 
restriction on 
papaya seeds  Thailand  Chinese 
Taipei   22/03/2017  3 
422 France's 
dimethoate -
related 
restrictions on 
imports  European 
Union  United States  Argentina; 
Canada  13/07/2017  2 
423 Brazil's measures 
on bananas  Brazil  Ecuador   13/07/2017  1 
426 The Russian 
Federation's 
import 
restrictions on 
wine Russian 
Federation  Montenegro  Moldova, 
Republic of  13/07/2017  1 
427 India's fumigation 
requirements for 
cashew nuts  India Senegal  Burkina Faso; 
Colombia; 
Kenya; 
Madagascar; 
Mozambique; 
Nigeria; Russian 
Federation; 
Togo; Ukraine; 
United States  13/07/2017  1 
428 EU maximum 
residue levels for 
acrinathrin, 
metalaxyl and 
thiabendazole  European 
Union  Peru Bolivia, 
Plurinational 
State of; Brazil; 
Colombia; Costa 
Rica; Dominican 
Republic; 
Ecuador; 
Guatemala; 
Nigeria; United 
States  02/11/2017  1 
430 EU maximum 
level of cadmium 
in foodstuffs  European 
Union  Peru Colombia; Costa 
Rica; Côte 
d'Ivoire; 
Dominican 
Republic; 
Ghana; 
Guatemala; 
Madagascar; 
Nigeria  02/11/2017  1 
431 South Africa's 
import 
restrictions on 
poultry due to 
Highly Pathogenic 
Avian Influenza  South Africa  European 
Union   02/11/2017
  1 
432 EU restrictions on 
poultry meat due 
to Salmonella 
detection  European 
Union  Brazil   02/11/2017  1 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 46 - 
 
  3.59.   In September 2017, the Secretariat contacted all Members who had raised STCs that had 
not been discussed in  the previous year, to request an update on their status. Twelve Members 
responded and indicated that 17 STCs had been resolved, and seven STCs had been partially 
resolved. An STC was reported as partially resolved when (i) it was only reported as resolved  by 
some of the Members that had raised the STC; (ii) trade had resumed for some, but not all, of the 
products covered by the STC; or (iii) trade had resumed with one of the Members maintaining the 
measure subject to the STC.27 
Box 3.2 Enhancing monitoring and transparency in SPS and TBT  
Accessing relevant information on SPS or TBT product requirements in export markets can be an important 
challenge, especially 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 Management Systems (SPS/TBT IMSs) and ePing.  
WTO Members are required to  notify proposed SPS and TBT measures if they may significantly affect 
international trade. Each year, the WTO receives more than 3,500 such notifications.  
Publicly available online tools help stakeholders find 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 help find, among others, SPS or TBT notifications by using 
parameters such as products, notifying Member and objective. The ePing  is an online alert system allowing 
users (governments, economic operators, 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.  
3.4  Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT)28 
3.60.   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.29 Therefore, an increased 
number of notifications does not necessarily imply 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 enviro nment.30 
3.61.   From 1  October  2017 to 30 April 2018, WTO  Members submitted 1,148  new regular 
notifications of TBT measures31, which represents a n 18% increase compared to the preceding 
seven -month period.32 The vast majority of regular TBT notifications (around 85% ) continue to 
come from developing countries.  
                                                
27 This information was circulated in document RD/SPS/28/Rev.1 of 19 February 2018.  
28 For the TBT Section, the review period covers 1 October 2017 to 30 April 2018.  
29 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 measures 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 guides or 
recommendations issued by international standardizing bodies (in the case of conformity assessment 
procedures). However, the TBT Committee, in its Sixth Tri ennial 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 procedure may  have a 'significant eff ect on 
trade of other Members', to notify such measures."  
30 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 fl exibilities. 
The TBT  Agreement contains more S&D provisions than any other WTO agreement apart from the GATT  1994.  
31 Viewed at: http://tbtims.wto.org . 
32 From 1 March to 30 September 2017, the overall number of new regu lar notifications was 973.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 47 - 
 
  3.62.   The Members which notified the most measures during the review period  - covering more 
than 70% of all new regular notifications  - were the United Arab Emirates, Kingdom of Bahrain, 
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oman , Qatar, State of Kuwait and Yemen  (214 collectively as 
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Standardization Organization (GSO) members)33, Uganda  (83), 
Kenya  (77), the European  Union  (70)34, Rwanda  (64), Brazil  (63), United  States  (54), China  (51), 
Tanzania  (49), Israel  (39), the Republic of Korea  (33), and Mexico  (31). 
3.63.   Of the 1,148  new regular notifications received during the review  period, the majority 
indicated as the main objective the protection of human health or safety.35 The remaining 
notifications related  to quality requirements, the protection of the environment and the prevention 
of deceptive practices and consumer protection. Although national security does not feature among 
the most indicated objectives, since 2007, there has been a marked spike in not ified TBT measures 
mentioning this as an objective ( Chart 3.13).  
Chart 3.13 Regular notifications indi cating national se curity as their objective, 
1995 -2017  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.64.   In terms of "follow -up notifications"36, a total of 495 were submitted during the review 
period, similar to the 466 notified during the preceding seven -month  period. The conti nuing and 
                                                
33 The GSO -GCC has ad hoc observer status to the TBT  Committee. Consistently with the trend already 
noted in previous reports, during the current review  period the increase in regionally -harmonized GCC draft 
technical regulations notified by GCC -GSO members in joint notifications on behalf of all its seven members 
(providing a common deadline for comments and facilitating the handling of comments received) has 
continued.  
34 Fifty-one EU-wide regular notifications plus 19 notificatio ns from certain individual EU member States: 
Estonia (1); France (7); Italy (2); Lithuania (1); Slovenia  (2); Spain (2); Sweden  (1); and the 
United  Kingdom  (3). 
35  A TBT measure may  pursue a variety of legitimate objectives, although  historically the majority fall  
under one of the following categories: the protection 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 for a measure.  
36 Follow -up notifications are called "addenda", "corrigenda", or "supplements". They can also be in the 
form of "revisions" when the original measure has been substantially re -drafted prior to adoption o r entry into 
force. A revision replaces the original notification. They are linked to the original notification of a measure, and 
0246810121416
1995 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Source:  WTO Secretariat.Chart 1.[TBT]
Regular notifications indicating national security as their objective, 1995 -2017WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 48 - 
 
  frequent use by Members of this type of notifications is a positive development as they help 
increase transparency and predictability across the measures' regulatory lifecycle.  
3.65.   WTO Members use the TBT Committee as a forum for discussing trade is sues related to 
specific measures (technical regulations, standards or conformity assessment procedures) 
maintained by other Members. These STCs normally relate to proposed draft measures notified to 
the TBT Committee, or to the implementation of existing measures. Issues raised in such STCs can 
range from simple requests for additional information and clarification , to questions on the 
consistency of measures with TBT Agreement disciplines.  
3.66.   During the review period, a total of  121 (13  new and 108  previous ly-raised) STCs were 
discussed during the two Committee meetings that fell within this peri od: 62 (7  new and 55 
previously -raised)  at the  November  2017 meeting, and 59 (6  new and 53 previously -raised) at the 
March  2018 meeting.  
3.67.   With respect to the 13  new STCs raised during the review period, as depicted in Table 3.14, 
measures by the European Union  (4), China  (3) and Viet Nam  (2) attracted the majority of these 
concerns, followed by Ecuador, India, Israel and Thailand (1 each). These new STCs covered a 
wide range of products/issues, including: cybersecurity, solid wastes, toys, processed food and 
food products, refrigerating appliances, automobiles, tobacco products, cosmetic and medicinal 
products, biofuels and spirits.  
Table 3.14 New STCs raised in the TBT Committee meetings of November 2017 and 
March 2018  
New STCs with respect to measures maintained by Members  
Viet Nam:  Concerning draft Cybersecurity Law (ID 544) (raised by Japan, United States and New Zealand)  
China: Concerning Catalogue of Solid Wastes Forbidden to Import into China (ID 545) ( raised by Japan, 
United  States, European Union, Australia and Canada ); 
India : Concerning amended regulation on toy imports (ID 546) ( raised by European Union, China, 
United  States, Mexico and Canada) ; 
China: Concerning certification requirements for processed foods (ID 547)   (raised by European Union, 
United States, Guatemala, Singapore and  Chinese Taipei );  
Ecuador: Concerning household refrigerating appliances (ID 548) ( raised by Colombia ); 
Viet Nam:  Concerning the Decree on the regulation on conditions for automobiles manufacturing, assembling 
importing and automotive warranty and maintenance services (ID 549) ( raised by Japan, United States and 
Thailand); 
European Union: Concerning the establishment and operation of a traceability system for tobacco products 
(ID 550) ( raised by Cuba ); 
China: Concerning Chinese environmental protection control standards for imported solid waste as raw 
materials (ID  551) ( raised by European Union, United States, Australia, Japan and Canada ); 
Israel: Concerning addendum to the Pharmacist Regulations (Cosmetics 5778 -2018) (ID 552) ( raised by 
European Union and United States) ; 
European Union:  Concerning amendments to the Renewable Energy Directive (2009/28/EC) (ID 553) ( raised 
by Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Nigeria ); 
European Union:  Concerning laws, regulations, procedures and guidelines on marketing authorization for 
medicinal products (ID 554) ( raised by India ); 
European Union : Concerning application of Regulation No. 1169/2011 and Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 
regarding the labelling of food products, in not prohibiting or examining the use of "pal m oil free" labels (ID 
555) ( raised by  Colombia, Indonesia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Thailand and Malaysia ); 
Thailand : Concerning new certification requirements under the Thai Ministry of Finance 's Ministerial 
Notification on Importation of Spirits into the  Kingdom of Thailand (B.E 2560) (ID 556) ( raised by  Australia, 
United States, Japan and European Union) . 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.68.   As indicated in  Chart 3.14, STCs are frequently discussed in the regular meetings of the 
TBT Committee, with almost 60 STCs discussed per  meeting in recent years. Depending on the 
extent of the trade -restrictiveness  and importance of the issue to the Members 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 
                                                                                                                                                  
include additional pertinent information, such as the extension of a notification comment period (addenda), the 
withdrawal or revocation of a measure (addenda), or 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 G/TBT/35 for further information on different typ es of TBT notifications.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 49 - 
 
  trade concern m ay be found. Alternatively, an STC may be 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 554 new STCs.  
Chart 3.14 STCs raised per committee meeting, January 2007 to December 2017  
 
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 counting previously -raised STCs  has been 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 new 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 Secretar iat. 
223544354465
40515560 57303447
365159
39465056 59
263740
465535
5151565762
78106131
117150159
130148161173178
020406080100120140160180200
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
March Meeting June Meeting November MeetingChart TBT.4
STCs raised per committee meeting, January 2007 to November 2017
Source:  WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 50 - 
 
  Chart 3.15 STCs raised, January 1995 to December 2017  
 
Note:  See note for Chart 3.14 above.  
Sourc e: WTO Secretariat.  
3.69.   Overall, t he number of new and previously -raised STCs has been increasing every year, 
despite Members raising fewer new STCs and more previous  STCs recently. Since 2008, Members 
have raised more than 100  STCs (new and previous) every year ( Chart 3.15).37 During the three 
Committee meetings he ld in 2017 more than 178  STCs were discussed, which represents a 174% 
increase compared to 2007, when 65 STCs were raised. Additionally, as indicated above, the total 
number of STCs discussed in the first Committee meeting of 2018 was 59 and similar to the  trend 
identified in 2017.  
3.70.   As illustrated in Chart 3.16, there is a marked correlation between the number of new 
notifications and new STCs raised each  year, although in  2011, 2013, and as of 2016  the number 
of new notifications has grown while the number of new STCs has fallen, marking a break in the 
trend.38 In any event, the overall trend suggests an increasing use of the TBT Committee as a 
forum for M embers to raise and resolve trade concerns non -litigiously, rather than allowing them 
to escalate into formal disputes.  
                                                
37 In 2017, Members reviewed a total of 178 STCs, a record number . The number of new concerns, 
however, dropped to 27, 4 less than in 2016. This continues the declining trend in the number of new concerns 
raised in the Committee sin ce 2014 (47), a decrease of 43%. Source: Twenty -Third Annual Review of the 
Implementation and Operation of the TBT Agreement , G/TBT/40 (12 March 2018), para. 3.23.  
38 See Twenty -Third Annual Review of the Implementation and Operation of the TBT Agreement , 
G/TBT/40 (12 March 2018), para.  3.35. 
4 611 13513 152015 14 1224 24 273246
2943354247
3127
4612
12322034
2235
201241517485
88107 124
88101142 151
4101725
1745
3554
3749
32366578106131
117150159
130148173178
020406080100120140160180200
New STCs Previous STCsChart TBT.5
STCs raised, January 1995 to December 2017
Source: WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 51 - 
 
  Chart 3.16 Number of TBT notifications and new STCs, January 1995 to December 2017  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.71.   As mentioned, STCs may be discussed at subseque nt meetings, as previously -raised STCs, 
and usually represent long -standing and more serious concerns. The majority of STCs (57%) have 
been raised at one or two Committee meetings, whe reas 26% were raised three to five times and 
17% were raised more than five times ( Chart 3.17). The share of "persistent"  STCs, i.e.  those 
raised more than five times , decreased in 2017 in comparison with 2016.  
Chart 3.17 STCs raised in the TBT Committee, 1995 -2017  
(number of times)  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat. Twenty -Third Annual Review of the Implementation  and Operation of  the TBT 
 Agreement, G/TBT/40 (12 March 2018), Chart  27. 
3.72.   During the review period, six persistent  STCs that were raised more than 16 times in TBT 
Committee meetings, were discussed ( Table 3.15).  
0102030405060
0200400600800100012001400160018002000
New Notifications New STCs Expon. (New STCs)Chart TBT.3
Number of TBT notifications and new STCs. January 1995 to 2017
Source: WTO Secretariat.
1-2 Meetings
57%
3-5 Meetings
26%>5 Meetings
17%Chart1.[TBT]
Number of times an STC is raised in the TBT Committee, 1995 -2016
Source: WTO Secretariat. Twenty Second Annual Review of the Implementation and Operation of 
the TBT Agreement, G/TBT/39/Rev.1 (24 May 2017).WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 52 - 
 
  Table 3.15 Persistent STCs raised between 1 October 2017 and 30 April  2018  
Persistent STCs  
India:  Pneumatic tyres and tubes for automotive vehicles (ID 133) - raised 34 times  since 2006  
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 20 10); and No. 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 22 tim es since 2010  
China:  Provisions for the Administration of Cosmetics Application Acceptance (ID 296) - raised 22 times  
since 2011 
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 on -going 
revision and the Multi -Level Protection Scheme (MLPS) (ID 294) - raised 21 times  since 2011  
Korea, Republic of:  Regulat ion on Registration and Evaluation of Chemical Material (ID 305) - raised 18 times  
since 2011  
Indonesia: Technical Guidelines for the Implementation of the Adoption and Supervision of Indonesian 
National Standards for Obligatory Toy Safety (ID 328) - raised 18 times since 2011  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.73.   Some of the new and previously -raised STCs discussed during the review period involved 
regulations in the area of renewable energy.  Box 3.3 takes a closer look these types of measures 
as notified to, and discussed in, the TBT Committee over the years.   WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 53 - 
 
  Box 3.3 Regulations on renewable  energy sources and the TBT Agreement  
In 2015, renewables accounted for almost 23% of global electricity generation. According to forecasts, the 
share of renewable energy in global power generation will rise to over 30% by 2020.a 
 
Since 1995, 162 regular n otifications submitted to the TBT Committed have related to renewable energy 
sources ("renewables notifications").b The number of renewables notifications has fluctuated from year to year, 
with the highest number (22) submitted in 2010, a significant incre ase since 1995, when only one renewables 
notification was submitted.c The vast majority of these notifications ( 96%)d concern technical  regulations .  
 
A significant share of the renewables notifications (around 80%) have been submitted  by both developing and 
developed members, with LDC members submitting the remaining 20%. Most of such notifications have been 
made by African Members (51) and Members in North America (30) and Europe (29). Individually, the top 
notifying Members are Ugand a (25), the United States (24) and Kenya (20).  More than half of the notified 
renewables regulationse addressed the protection of the environment. Other objectives covered include the 
protection of human health and safety (21%) followed by the prevention o f deceptive practices and consumer 
protection (13%) and quality requirements (12%).  
 
Since 2009, Members have been raising STCs in the TBT  Committee specifically on measures regulating 
renewable energy sources ("renewables STCs"). A total of six renewables  STCs have been raised, five of which 
concerned biofuels -related measures. All six targeted measures addressing environmental protection 
objectives (some of these measures also indicated quality requirements and/or the protection of human health 
and safety  as their objectives).  
 
Members were mainly concerned about "transparency" and the "measure's rationale" when raising renewables 
related trade measures in the TBT Committee.f Other reasons of concern dealt with: (i) "further information 
and clarification' ', "international standards" and "unnecessary barriers to trade" (indicated in five STCs) ; and 
(ii) "discrimination" (indicated in three STCs). In terms of substance, the specific issues discussed under these 
STCs included: the calculation methods for dete rmining sustainability criteria; minimum volume of biodiesel to 
be used in the national transportation fuel supply; certification procedure for biodiesel; establishing 
compulsory percentages of blends of ethanol; market access for thin -film solar panels; a nd discriminatory 
treatment against biofuels and bioliquids produced from palm oil and other types of vegetable oils.  
 
These six renewables STCs concerned measures by both developed  (4) and developing  (2) Members. EU 
measures have been subject to half of t hese STCs. Other WTO Members subject to the m were the 
United  States, Colombia and the Republic of Korea. In the aggregate, 11 Members have raised these six 
STCs,g with developing Members accounting for the vast majority (9 out of 11). Individually, Argenti na, 
Indonesia and Malaysia have been the most active Members in raising renewables STCs. They have been 
involved in three STCs each. The European  Union and the United States are next with two STCs each.  
_______________  
a Source: International Energy Agency, Renewables  2017.  
b As defined by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), renewable energy "includes all 
forms of energy produced from renewable sources in a sustainable manner, including bioenergy, geothermal 
energy, hydropower, ocean energy, solar energy and win d energy." Commonly -used renewable energy sources 
include biomass (i.e. wood and wood waste, municipal solid waste, landfill gas and biogas, ethanol and 
biodiesel) hydropower, geothermal, wind and solar.  
c Notifications submitted from January 1995 to May 2018.  
d The remaining portion of renewables notifications mostly concern  conformity assessment.  
e Around 52% of 162 renewables notifications , or 84 notifications.  
f The fact that only 2 of the 6 measures targeted in these renewables STCs have been notified  to the 
TBT Committee seems to correlate with the fact that "transparency" was one of the most frequent issues of 
concern.  
g STCs can be raised, maintained or supported by more than one Member.  
 
Note: This Box considers only notifications and STCs concerni ng TBT regulations and measures addressing 
renewable energy sources specifically. Apart from such measures, renewable energy sources can, and 
commonly are, also subject to other regulations covering a variety of products and/or situations, for instance: 
general inspection  of voltage  of electrical installations; testing the  safety standards  of vehicles  run by biofuels 
and biodiesel; grid connections enabling physical connections, transmission and distribution; or energy 
conservation program mes including ener gy conservation standards for uninterruptible power supplies. 
Renewable energy sources can also be affected by measures regulating general fuel quality, controls of 
emissions in the energy sector or land use and noise regulations. The scope of measures aff ecting renewable 
energy sources is broader than that included in this Box.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 54 - 
 
  3.5  Trade Concerns Raised in Other WTO Bodies39 
3.74.   During the review period, a number of trade concerns were raised by Members in formal 
meetings of various WTO bodies. This Section provides a factual overview of such concerns raised 
between mid -October 2017 and mid -May 2018 .40 The trade concerns covered in this Section have 
neither the status nor the procedural framework of the STCs raised in the SPS and TBT 
Commi ttees. 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 important 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 particular 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 conc erns and issues mentioned in this Section is not 
exhaustiv e. 
3.75.   At the 30 November 2017 meeting of the General Council (GC)41, concerns were raised on 
Kazakhstan's border (raised by the Kyrgyz Republic under "Other Business"). At the 7 March 2018 
GC meeting42, concern s were raised on possible trade -restrictive measures by a Member (raised by 
China under "Other Business" – 18 delegations intervened) . At the 8 May 2018 GC meeting43, 
concerns were raised on (i) the United States' Section 232 investigations and meas ures on steel 
and aluminium products (raised by China – 17 other delegations intervened) and; (ii) the United 
States' investigations and measures under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 (raised by China – 
10 other delegations intervened).  
3.76.   At the meetin g of the Council for Trade in Goods  (CTG) on 10 November 201744, new 
concerns were raised on (i) India's QRs on imports of mungo be ans (raised by Australia); 
(ii) Kazakhstan's border restrictions (raised by Kyrgyz Republic); (iii) Mexico's AD duties on 
Russian Federation on the basis of a non -market methodology (raised by Russian Federation); and 
(iv) China's customs duties on certain semiconductors (raised by European Union,  Chinese Taipei , 
and United States). At that meeting, concerns were again raised abo ut (i) India's customs duties 
on ICT  products - previously considered under a broader title (raised by Canada, European Union, 
Norway, Japan, Chinese Taipei, and United States); (ii) the United States Section  232 
investigations on steel and aluminium produ cts (raised by Russian Federation); (iii) the United 
States  Seafood Import Monitoring Programme (SIMP) (raised by China); (iv) Nigeria's import 
restricting measures (raised by Norway); (v) Indonesia's import and export restricting policies and 
practices (r aised by European Union, Japan and United States); (vi)  the Russian Federation's trade 
restricting practices (raised by European Union); (vii) Egypt's manufacturer registration system 
(raised by European Union); and (viii) Brazil's restrictions on banana i mports (raised by Ecuador).  
3.77.   At the CTG meeting on 23 -26 March 201845, new concerns were raised under the regular 
agenda on: (i) the United States Section 232 investigations and measures on imports of steel and 
aluminium (raised by China and Russian Federati on);46 (ii) Mexico's customs processing fee (raised 
by Ecuador); (iii) Viet Nam's decree on the regulation on conditions for automobile manufacturing, 
assembling, importing and maintenance services (raised by Japan and United States); (iv) China's 
new expor t control law (raised by Japan); (v) Mongolia's QRs on certain agricultural products 
(raised by Russian Federation); (vi) China's measures restricting imports of scrap materials (raised 
by United States); (vii) the European Union Directive 2009/28/EC on re newable energy (raised by 
Malaysia); (viii) the United States safeguard measures against imported crystalline silicon 
photovoltaic cells and residential washers (raised by China) and, under Other Business; (ix) the 
United States Section  301 (raised by Chin a) and (x) the United States'  certification on aviation 
security equipment (raised by China).  
                                                
39 This Section does not include SPS and TBT Committees (covered separately) or issues brought to the 
Dispute Settlement Body. Some of the trade concerns raised may subsequently have become the subject of a 
dispute.  
40 Members and Observers are encouraged to communicate to the WTO's Trade Policy Review Division 
the non -tariff measures which they have raised in WTO bodies and which they believe are relevant to the 
monitoring exercise.  
41 Document WT/GC/M/170.  
42 Document WT/ GC/M/171.  
43 Document WT/GC/M/172 (to be issued).  
44 Document  G/C/M/130.  
45 Document  G/C/M/131 (forthcoming).  
46 This issue was previously raised at the CTG when the measures had not yet entered into force.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 55 - 
 
  3.78.   At the same meeting, the CTG again considered trade concerns that had already been 
brought to its attention at previous meetings  on: (i) Indonesia's import and export policies (raised 
by European Union, Japan and United States); (ii) India's QRs on imports of mungo beans (raised 
by Australia); (iii) India's customs duties on ICT  products (raised by Canada, China, 
European  Union, Japan , Norway, Chinese Taipei and United States); (iv) the United 
States'  measures related to imports of fish and seafood products (raised by China); (v) the 
Russian Federation's trade restricting practices (raised by European  Union and United States); 
(vi) Egypt's manufacturer registration system (raised by European Union and United States); 
(vii) China's customs duties on certain integrated circuits (raised by European Union, Japan, 
Chinese Taipei and United States; and (viii) import levy by WTO  Members of the  African Union 
(raised by European Union and United States).  
3.79.   At the 26 April 2018 meeting of the Committee on Market Access47 new and persistent trade 
concerns were raised on: (i) Angola's consumption tax (raised by European Union)48 which had 
been previousl y raised in 2017; (ii) China's customs duties on certain integrated circuits (raised by 
European Union, Japan, Chinese Taipei, and United States) ;49 (iii) Haiti's modification of 
Schedule  XXVI (raised by Dominican Republic and supported by United States) ; (iv) India's 
customs duties on telecommunication and other products (raised by Canada, China, European 
Union, Japan, Norway, Chinese Taipei, and United States and supported by  Australia;  Korea, 
Republic of; Norway;  Singapore;  Switzerland;  and Thailand) ;50 (v) Oman's MFN customs duties on 
cigarettes (raised by European Union and Switzerland); (vi) the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's excise 
tax on energy drinks and carbonated soft drink products (raised by European Union and 
Switzerland); (vii) the United States' pr ohibited electronic equi pment (raised by China); 
(viii) India's restrictions on the importation of mungo beans and yellow peas (raised by Australia) 
and; (ix) the European Union's (Croatia) regulation o n the importation and sale of certain oil and 
biodiese l products (raised by Russian Federation) .51 
3.80.   At the meeting  of the Committee of Participants on the Expansion of Trade in Information 
Technology Products  on 6 November 201752, trade concerns continued to be raised regarding 
India's Customs Notifications No. 11/2014 and No. 56/2017 on the 10% import duty increase on 
certain telecommunication equipment (bound at duty -free) (raised by Canada; European Union; 
Japan; Korea, Republic of; Norway; Chinese Taipei and United States  and echoed by Australia; 
Thailand; Switzerland and Viet Nam). In addition, concerns were reiterated with respect to China's 
application of tariffs on certain semiconductor devices, i.e. "multi -component integrated circuits" 
(MCOs ) (raised by European Unio n; Japan; Chinese Taipei and United States and echoed by Korea, 
Republic of; and Thailand).  
3.81.   At the meetings of the Committee on Import Licensing on 3 October 201 753 new and 
persistent trade concerns were raised as per Table 3.16. 
Table 3.16 Concerns raised on import licensing measures  
Measure implemented by  Member(s) raising the concern  
Argentina  
Non-automatic licensing procedures on certain 
products54 European Union  
Brazil  
Import restrictions of nitrocellulose for industrial use55 European Union  
China  
Import licensing measures on importation of solid 
waste and recoverable materials56 European Union, United State, shared by Japan, 
Republic of Korea, Australia, Canada  
India  
Import licensing requirements on boric acid  United States  
                                                
47 Includes issues raised under "other business". Document G/MA/M/67 (forthcoming).  
48 The issue had been previously raised in 2017.  
49 The issue had been repeatedly raised in previous meetings as well as the ITA Committee.  
50 The issue has been repeatedly raised in previous meetings of the Committee and other WTO bodies.  
51 This issue had been previously raised in October 2016.  
52 Documents G/IT/M/67 . 
53 Document G/LIC/M/47 (forthcoming) . 
54 Document G/LIC/Q/ARG/16.  
55 Document G/L IC/Q/BRA/22.  
56 Document G/LIC/Q/CHN/27.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 56 - 
 
  Measure implemented by  Member(s) raising the concern  
Import requirements for beans of the species vigna 
mungo hepper or vigna radiata wilczek and pigeon 
peas (cajanus cajan)  Australia, shared by European Union, United States, 
Ukraine, Canada and Japan  
Indonesia  
Import licensing regime for cellphones, handheld 
computers and tablets  United States, shared by Chile  
Import requirements related to milk supply and 
circulati on United States, shared by E uropean Union, 
Switzerland, Chile, New Zealand  
Russian Federation  
Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificate 
procedures on the importation of specified medicines 
and pharmaceutical products57 European Union  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.82.   At the meeting s of the Committee on Customs Valuation on 6 November 2017 and 
23 April 201858, concerns were repeated on: (i) Pakistan's determination of customs value of paper 
(raised by Thailand); (ii) Armenia's alleged use of ref erence prices  (raised by United  States); 
(iii) Indonesia's status of PSI notifications (raised by United States); (iv) Egypt's status of PSI 
notifications (raised by United  States). New concerns were raised on: (i) Colombia's use of 
reference pricing for apparel (raise d by Canada at the November 2017 meeting) ; and (ii) Oman's 
customs valuation of cigarettes and introduction of the selective tax (raised by Switzerland at the 
April 2018 meeting).  
3.83.   In the Committee on Agriculture  (CoA) on 17 -18 October 2017 and 20 February 201859, a 
number of questions and concerns were raised with respect to Members' individual notifications 
and on implementation -related issues under Article  18.6. During the period concerned, a total of 
215 questi ons were discussed , on individual notifications (141 questions), Article 18.6 issues (64 
questions on 26 implementation -related issues) and on overdue notifications (10 questions). 
Additional details regarding these questions and concerns can be found in Section 3.6 of this  
Report.  
3.84.   At the meetings of the Committee on Anti -Dumping Practices60 on 27 October 2016 and 
27 April 2017, concerns were raised as per  Table 3.17. 
Table 3.17 Concerns raised on AD practices  
Measure implemented by  Member(s)  
raising the concern  
Brazil  
Investigation on hot -rolled steel  Russian Federation  
Sunset review on PET films  Turkey  
Investigation on PET films  Peru 
Canada  
Investigation on silicon metal  Lao PDR, Kazakhstan  
China  
Investigation on styrene monomers  Korea, Republic of  
Investigation on broiler products  Brazil  
Investigation on acrylonitrile -butadiene rubber  Japan  
Colombia  
Investigation on frozen fries  European Union  
Dominican Republic  
Measure on steel reinforcing bar  Turkey  
Egypt  
Investigation on steel rebar  Ukraine, Turkey  
European Union  
Interim review on solar panels  China  
Investigation on tubes and pipe fittings of stainless steel  China  
                                                
57 Document G/LIC/Q/RUS/4 . 
58 Documents G/VAL/M/65 and G/VAL/M/66 (forthcoming).  
59 Questions and responses to the issues raised under the review pr ocess in the CoA meetings on 
17-18 October 2017 and 20 February 2018 ar e available in documents G/AG/W/170 issued on 
12 December  2017 and G/AG/W/173 issued on 6 April 2018.  
60 Minutes documents G/ADP/M/53 and G/ADP/M/54 (forthcoming), respectively.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 57 - 
 
  Measure implemented by  Member(s)  
raising the concern  
India  
Investigation on sodium dichromate  Turkey  
Investigation on resorcinol  Japan  
Investigation on ammonium nitrate  Russian Federation  
Measure on linear alkyl benzene  Qatar  
Investigation on caustic soda  Qatar  
Indonesia  
Sunset review on hot -rolled coil  Kazakhstan  
Sunset review on hot -rolled plates  Ukraine  
Israel  
Investigation on low voltage copper cables  Turkey  
Investigation on Portland cement  Turkey  
Measure on float glass  Turkey  
Korea, Republic of  
Measure on stainless steel bar  Japan  
Measure on ferrosilicon manganese  Ukraine  
Mexico  
Measure on cold -rolled sheet  Kazakhstan  
Morocco  
Measure on refrigerators  Turkey  
Pakistan  
Investigation on certain uncoated writing and printing paper  Brazil  
Russian Federation, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyz Republic  
Investigation on herbicides  European Union  
Turkey  
Investigation on unbleached kraftliner paper  Brazil  
Measure on copper wire rod  Ukraine  
Ukraine  
Interim review on ammonium nitrate  Russian Federation  
Investigation on armature and wire rod  Russian Federation  
Investigation on carbamide -formaldehyde products  Russian Federation  
Investigation on syringes  Turkey  
United States  
Investigation on wire rod  Russian Federation  
Investigations on colour -coated, hot -rolled, cold -rolled steel sheets and steel 
plates  Korea, Republic of  
Administrative review on oil country tubular goods  Korea, Republic of  
Investigation on biodiesel  Indonesia  
Investigation on carbon and alloy steel wire rod  Ukraine  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.85.   Other additional issues and concerns were raised on: (i) the recent rapid increase in AD 
measures, especially in the steel sector (raised by Japan); (ii) the European Union' s and United 
States' "surrogate country methodology" in investig ations (raised by China); (iii)  India's 
methodology to calculate the amount of AD duties on investigations (raised by Japan); (iv) the 
length of the United States'  AD measures (raised by Japan ); (v) the United States' practice of 
applying adverse facts available ("AFA") in investigations (raised by Korea, Republic of); (vi) the 
United States' methodology of regarding SOEs as one whole entity (raised by China) ; and (vi) the 
European Union's draf t amendments to the Basic AD Regulation (raised by the Russian 
Federation).  
3.86.   At the meetings of the  Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures61 on 
24 October 2017 and 24 April 2018, concerns were raised on CVD actions  as per  Table 3.18. 
                                                
61 Minutes G/SCM/M/103 and G/SCM/M/105 (forthcoming), respectively.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 58 - 
 
  Table 3.18 Concerns raised on CVD actions  
Measure implemented by  Member(s)  
raising the concern  
European Union  
Investigation on hot -rolled steel  China  
United States  
Investigation on ripe olives  European Union  
Measures on iron and steel products  Turkey  
Investigation on silicon metal  Australia and Kazakhstan  
Various investigations  India 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.87.   At the same meetings concerns were raised on subsidies  as per  Table 3.19. 
Table 3.19 Concerns raised on subsidies  
Measure implemented by  Member(s)  
raising the concern  
China  
Non-notification of alleged subsidies in the steel sector  United States  
Non-notification of alleged subsidies in the fisheries sector  United States  
Non-notification of alleged subsidies under the Internationally Well -
known Brand Programme  United States  
Requests for information on certain alleged subsidy programmes in the 
steel sector  European Union and United States  
India  
Export subsidies in the textile and apparel sector  United States  
Export Subsidies (India's Graduation from Annex VII(b) of the 
Agreement)  United States  
United States  
Request for information on certain alleged subsidy programmes  China  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.88.   Additional concerns were raised on: (i) the elimination 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 info rmation pursuant to Article s 25.8 and 25.9 (proposal from the United States); (iv) 
enhancing fisheries subsidies transparency (raised by United States); (v) subsidies and 
overcapacity (raised by Canada, European Union, Japan, Mexico, and United States); ( vi) 
Implementation of Paragraph  2 of the Ministerial Decision on Fisheries Subsidies (raised by 
Australia, Canada, European Union, Iceland, New Zealand, Norway and United States).  
3.89.   At the meeting of the Trade -Related Investment Measures  (TRIMs) Committee on 
6 November 201762, the following new or continuing issues ( Table 3.20) were raised:  
                                                
62 Minutes G /TRIMS/M/43.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 59 - 
 
  Table 3.20 Concerns raised at the TRIMs Committee  
Measure implemented by  Member(s)  
raising the concern  
Argentina  
Act 27,263 on the development and strengthening of auto -partsa Mexico  
China  
Provisions on insurance system informatizationb United States  
Indonesia  
Requirements for 4G LTE mobile devicesc European Union; Japan; United 
States  
Provisions in the energy sector (mining,  oil and gas)d Canada; European Union; Japan; 
United States  
Industry Law and Trade Lawe European Union; Japan  
Minimum local product requirement for modern retail sectorf European Union; Japan  
Measures relating to investment in the telecommunications sectorg Japan  
Requirements for dairy importation and distribution  United States  
Nigeria  
Guidelines on information communications technology (ICT)h United States  
Russian Federation  
Measures implementing the Russian Federation's import substitution 
policyi European Union; United States  
Turkey   
Localization  policy in the pharmaceutical sector  European Union; United States  
a See documents G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/1; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/2; G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/3; and G/TRIMS/Q/ARG/4.  
b See document G/TRIMS/Q/CHN/1.  
c See documents G/TRIMS/W/148 and G/TRIMS/W/162.  
d See documents G/TRIMS/W/70; G/TRIMS/W/74; G/TRIMS/W/79; G/TRIMS/W/88; G/TRIMS/W/100; 
G/TRIMS/W/108; G/TRIMS/W/123; G/TRIMS/W/128; G/TRIMS/W/137; and G/TRIMS/W/137/Corr.1.  
e See documents G/TRIMS/W/138; G/TRIMS/W /140; G/TRIMS/W/157; and G/TRIMS/W/158.  
f See documents G/TRIMS/W/139; G/TRIMS/W/141; G/TRIMS/W/159; and G/TRIMS/W/161.  
g See documents G/TRIMS/W/61; G/TRIMS/W/63; G/TRIMS/W/71; G/TRIMS/W/75; G/TRIMS/W/78; 
G/TRIMS/W/80; G/TRIMS/W/86; G/TRIMS/W/96; G/TRIMS/ W/104; G/TRIMS/W/131; 
G/TRIMS/W/154; G/TRIMS/W/160; and G/TRIMS/Q/IDN/1.  
h See document G/TRIMS/Q/NGA/1.  
i See documents G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/4; G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/5; G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/6; G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/7; and 
G/TRIMS/Q/RUS/8.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.90.   At the meetings of the Committee on Safeguards63, on 23 October 2017 and 23 April 2018, 
concerns were raised on specific safeguard actions as per  Table 3.21. 
Table 3.21 Concerns raised at the Committee on Safeguards  
Measure implemented by  Member(s) raising the concern  
Chile   
Investigation on Powdered Milk and Gouda Cheese  United States, European Union, Argentina, Australia, 
New Zealand   
China   
Investigation on Sugar Brazil, Australia, European Union  
Costa Rica   
Investigation on Bars and Rods of Steel for Concrete 
Reinforcement  Turkey  
European Union   
Investigation on Certain Steel Products  Korea Republic of; Turkey; Argentina; China; Egypt; 
Viet Nam; Chile; India   
Bahrain, Kingdom of ; Kuwait, State of ; Oman; 
Saudi Arabia, K ingdom of; United Arab Emiratesa   
Investigation on Flat -Rolled Products of Iron or 
Non-Alloy Steel  European Union  
India   
Investigation on Solar Cells  European Union, Japan  
Indonesia   
Investigation on Fla t-Rolled Product of Iron or 
Non-Alloy Steel  European Union  
                                                
63 Documents G/SG/M/50 and G/SG/M/51.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 60 - 
 
  Measure implemented by  Member(s) raising the concern  
Investigation on Ceramic Flags and Paving, Hearth or 
Wall Tiles; Ceramic Mosaic Cubes and the Like  European Union, Japan  
Jordan   
Investigation on Aluminium Bars, Rods and Profiles  United States  
Malaysia   
Investigation on Steel Concrete Reinforcing Bars  European Union  
Investigation on Steel Wire Rod and Deformed Bar -In-
Coil European Union  
South Africa   
Investigation on Certain Flat Hot -Rolled Steel Products  United States, Japan, European Union  
Thailand   
Investigation on Non -Alloy Hot Rolled Steel Flat 
Products in Coils and Not in Coils   Turkey  
Turkey   
Investigation on Pneumatic Tires  Ecuador, European Union, Japan  
Investigation on Polyethylene Terephthalate  European Union  
Investigation on Toothbrushes  Ecuador  
Investigation on Wallpaper and Similar Wallcoverings  European Union  
Ukraine   
Investigation on Flexible Porous Plates, Blocks and 
Sheets of Polyurethane Foams  European Union  
United States   
Investigation on Large Residential Washers   Korea, Republic of; Viet Nam;  China and Mexico  
Investigation on Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaic Cells  European Union; Korea, Republic of; Australia;  Japan; 
the Philippines; China; Singapore; Switzerland; 
Norway; Malaysia  
Measures Taken Following Section 232 Investigations  
 
 China; Russian Federation; Venezuela, Bolivarian 
Republic of; Turkey; Norway; Switzerland; India and 
Singapore  
Viet Nam   
Investigation on Diammonium Phosphate and 
Monoammonium Phosphate Fertilizer  Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of; United States  
Zambia   
Investigation on Fl at–Rolled Products of Iron, 
Non-Alloy Steel, Trailers and Semi -Trailers  United States  
a Investigations are initiated at the level of the GCC.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.91.  At the meetings of the Working Party on State Trading Enterprises  on 9 November 201764, 
trade concerns were raised  on India's Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation Limited  (raised by 
European Unio n). 
3.92.   Additional concerns were raised on: (i) the non -notification by the Russian Federation of its 
state trading enterprises (questions from the European Union and t he United States); (ii) the 
non-notification by the United Arab Emirates of its state tradin g enterprises (questions by the 
United States); and (iii) the overall poor level of compliance among Members with the notification 
obligations of Article XVII of GATT 1994 regarding state trading enterprises.  
3.93.   At the meeting of the Council for Trade in Serv ices (CTS) held on 2 March 2018, concerns 
were repeated about certain measures related to Ukraine's reforms of its Unified Gas 
Transportation System (raised by Russian Federation).65 These concerns were first mentioned in 
November 2014, and have been restated at all subsequent regular meetings of the CTS.66 At that 
same meeting, concerns were reiterated about cybersecurity measures by China and Viet  Nam 
(raised by Japan and United States67 and supported by European Union, Canada, New Zealand, 
Australia a nd Chinese Taipei).  Concerns were also raised about measures by China on the use of 
virtual private networks and leased lines (raised by United  States68 and supported by Japan).69  
                                                
64 Minutes G/STR/M/32.  
65 Document S/C/M/134.  
66 Documents S/C/M/122 to 124, S/C/M/126 to 130, and S/C/M/132 to 133.  
67 Communication by the United States,  entitled "Measures adopted and under development by China 
relating to its Cybersecurity Law" (document S/C/W/376).  
68 Communication by the United States,  entitled "Measures adopted and under development by China 
relating to its Cybersecurity Law" (document S/C/W/376).  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 61 - 
 
  3.94.   At the meetings of the Committee on Trade and Development  (CTD) on 15 Novembe r 2017 
and 24 April 2018 , developing Members reiterated concerns, in the context of the 1998 work 
programme on e -commerce, with respect to capacity and infrastructure constraints which prevent 
them from fully benefitting from the opportunities presented by  e-commerce.70 At the same 
meetings, LDCs raised concerns with regard to duty -free quota -free (DFQF) market access and , in 
particular, in the context of the implementation of the DFQF and related decisions . 
3.95.   The above Section shows that a greater number of t rade concerns were raised in the 
various WTO bodies where meetings took place between mid -October 2017 and mid -May 2018 
compared to the same period in 2016 -2017. A larger number of trade concerns on measures 
implemented by WTO Members were raised in nearly  all Committees and Councils. Several trade 
concerns were raised in successive meetings of the same WTO body, suggesting more profound or 
persistent problems. Continuing a trend observed previously, several trade concerns were raised in 
more than one WTO b ody during this period, suggesting that these concerns involve increasingly 
complex and cross -cutting issues. It may also provide an indication that WTO Members are 
seeking multiple platforms within the WTO committee structure to address various aspects of  such 
trade concerns. From a systemic point of view, this is significant because of the increased 
transparency which it brings, but also because it demonstrates that Members are actively using 
the WTO committees to constructively engage trading partners on  potential areas of trade friction. 
Finally, the period under review also saw a number of trade concerns raised in successive GC 
meetings , suggesting a political rather than technical focus.   
3.6  Policy Development s in Agriculture  
3.96.   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 the Members' implementation of 
commitments under the Agreement on Agriculture (AoA), including rules -based commitments. The 
review  work by the CoA is based on notifications Members make on their commitments. There is 
also a provision in Article 18.6 that allows Members to raise any matter relevant to the 
implementation of the commitments under the AoA.  
3.97.   In the framework of the CoA me etings on 17-18 October 2017 and 20 February 2018, 
Members posed a total of 205 questions, including questions on both individual notifications and 
those under Article 18.6, with a large number of these questions directed at issues related to 
domestic support notifications or implementation of domestic support commitments.  
3.98.   In total, nine Members raised 64 questions on 26 implementation -related issues 
(Article 18.6) in the October 2017 and February 2018 CoA meetings. As can be seen in Chart 3.18, 
the average number of questions raised under Article 18.6 per meeting has been increasing since 
2011, reaching an all -time high in 2017 with an average of 38 questions per meeting. The latter 
38 was also the number of questions raised in the first CoA meeting of 2018.71 These numbers 
include questions that were re peated from one meeting to the next because responses were not 
provided within the relevant time -frames.  
                                                                                                                                                  
69 Document S/C/M/134.  
70 Documents WT/COM TD/M/104 and WT/COMTD/M/105 (forthcoming).  
71 The 86th CoA meeting held on 20 February 2018.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 62 - 
 
  Chart 3.18 Average number of questions raised under Article 18.6 per meeting  
(1995 -2018a)  
 
a 2018 dat a covers the February 2018 CoA meeting.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.99.   Out of the 26 implementation -related issues raised in the CoA during the review period, 
15 were discussed for the first time, whereas the remaining issues had been discussed one or 
more times  in previous Committee meetings under matters raised under Article 18.6. Table 3.22 
indicates the specific issues relating to implementation commitments that were discussed for the 
first time in the CoA during the two meetings.72  
3.100.   One third of the new issues raised at the two meetings related to domestic support policies 
benefiting producers of cereal, cotton and dairy products , such as Canada's new dairy sector 
programme, EU 's intervention stocks of milk powder, Egypt's domestic support for wheat, India's 
minimum support p rices and US support to the cotton sector. One third of the questions sought 
clarification on policies that potentially subsidized exports of cereals, dairy products, sugar and 
pork meat , such as the questions raised on Argentina's export subsidies to pork  meat and its 
Reintegros programme, Pakistan's sugar policies, Russia's railway subsidies and US dairy policies. 
Members also raised four new issues in relation to measures that restricted, or had the potential to 
restrict, trade of agricultural products , such as India's QRs, Indonesia's imports of soybean, 
Mongolia's quota regime for importation and Suriname's tariffs on poultry. Another issue was 
raised on Indonesia's new regulation on milk which concerned local content requirements.  
                                                
72 The complete questions and answers can be accessed through the Agriculture Information 
Management System (AG IMS) by using the ID numbers provided in the tables. 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.  
010203040Chart Agri.1
Average number of questions raised under Article 18.6 per meeting (1995 -2018a)
a2018 data covers the February 2018 CoA meetings.
Source:  WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 63 - 
 
  Table 3.22 Article 18.6 new issues  
Question 
Summary  Question 
raised by  Products  Number of 
questions  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  5 85, 86  86010, 86068, 
86067, 86038, 
86047, 85036  
India's 
minimum 
support prices  Australia, 
Canada, 
European 
Union  Cereals, wheat, 
corn, rice, malt, 
coarse grains  3 86 86005, 86074, 
86066  
India's QRs Australia, 
United States  Fresh vegetables  3 85, 86  86006, 86037, 
85060  
Pakistan's 
sugar policies  Australia, Brazil  Sugar, cane or beet 
sugar, other  3 85, 86  86007, 86009, 
85069  
EU intervention 
on stocks of 
skim milk 
powder Australia, 
Canada, New 
Zealand  Milk powders  2 85, 86  86003, 86032, 
85059  
U.S. dairy 
policies  Canada  Dairy, milk, milk 
powders, butter, 
cheese, other  2 85, 86  86084, 85079  
Argentina's 
export 
subsidies to 
pork meat  European 
Union  Swine  1 86 86064  
Egypt's 
domestic 
support for 
wheat  Canada  Wheat  1 86 86060  
Indonesia's 
soybean 
imports  United States   Soybean  1 86 86048  
Mongolia's 
quota regime 
for importation  Russia  Milk, cereal  1 86 86001  
Suriname's 
poultry tariffs  United States  Poultry  1 86 86049  
US support to 
the cotton 
sector  European 
Union  Cotton  1 86 86069  
Argentina's 
Reintegros 
programme  European 
Union    1 85 85034  
Canada's new 
programmes 
on dairy sector  New Zealand  Dairy, milk, milk 
powders, butter, 
cheese, other 1 85 85010  
Indonesia's  
new regulation 
on milk  United States  Dairy, milk, milk 
powders, butter, 
cheese, other 1 85 85013  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.101.   Other measures that were discussed related to follow -up questions on persistent areas of 
concern which have been raised in the CoA multiple times ( Table 3.23). One case  - i.e. Brazil's 
domestic support programmes - has been raised in 20 CoA meetings , while Canada's new milk 
ingred ient class, its wine sale policy and its TRQ for cheese received a total of 39, 18 and 9 
questions, respectively, with a number of these questions being co -sponsored by two or three 
WTO Members. India's pulse policies ha ve been discussed in three CoA meeti ngs, generating in 
total nine questions, six of which were raised at the CoA meeting  in February  2018. Other 
recurrent issues included policies affecting market access of wheat and rice (i.e. Thailand's import 
permit for wheat, Philippine's rice waiver and the Republic of Korea's rice import).  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 64 - 
 
  Table 3.23 Ques tions previously raised under Article 18.6  
Question 
Summary  Question 
raised by  Answer by  Products  Number of 
questions  Number 
of CoA 
meetings 
in which 
the issue 
was 
discussed  CoA 
meetings  ID number  
Canada's New 
Milk 
Ingredient 
Class Australia, 
India, New 
Zealand, 
United States  Canada  Dairy, 
milk, milk 
powders, 
butter, 
cheese, 
other 39 8 79, 80, 81, 
82, 83, 84, 
85, 86  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, 82001, 
81001, 81009, 
81049, 81054, 
81055, 81056, 
80003, 80005, 
80006, 80025, 
79035  
Brazil's 
domestic 
support 
programmes  United 
States, 
Ukraine  Brazil  Wheat, 
corn, rice, 
malt, 
coarse 
grains, 
cotton 20 20 65, 66, 68, 
69, 70, 71, 
72, 73, 74, 
75, 76, 77, 
78, 79, 80, 
81, 83, 84, 
85, 86  86031, 85049, 
84073, 83038, 
81008, 80024, 
79001, 78002, 
77066, 76039, 
75023, 74021, 
73026, 72051, 
71028, 70007, 
69027, 68007, 
66002, 65011  
Canada's 
wine sale 
policy  Australia, 
European 
Union, New 
Zealand, 
United States  Canada  Alcoholic  18 8 79, 80, 81, 
82, 83, 84, 
85, 86  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  
Canada's 
tariff-rate 
quota for 
cheese, and 
domestic 
support  New Zealand, 
Norway, 
Switzerland, 
United States  Canada  Cheese  9 8 75, 76, 77, 
80, 81, 83, 
84, 85  85009, 84110, 
84108, 83003, 
83004, 83005, 
81004, 81051, 
81052, 80001, 
80002, 80007, 
77037, 77001, 
76023, 75026  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 65 - 
 
  Question 
Summary  Question 
raised by  Answer by  Products  Number of 
questions  Number 
of CoA 
meetings 
in which 
the issue 
was 
discussed  CoA 
meetings  ID number  
India's pulses 
policies  Australia, 
Canada, 
Russian 
Federation, 
Ukraine  India Processed 
vegetable
s 9 3 84, 85, 86  86004, 86061, 
86062, 86063, 
86065, 86039, 
86035, 85064, 
84044  
Thailand's 
import 
permits for 
feed wheat  Australia, 
European 
Union, United 
States  Thailand  Animal 
feed, 
wheat, 
corn 7 4 83, 84, 85, 
86 86106, 85039, 
84074, 84059, 
83107, 83045, 
83013  
Philippines' 
rice waiver  Australia, 
Thailand, 
United States  Philippines  Rice 5 3 84, 85, 86  86008, 85071, 
84057, 84015, 
84079  
Korea's , Rep. 
of rice 
imports  Australia, 
Thailand, 
United States  Korea, 
Republic of  Rice 4 3 23, 78, 86  86036, 23006, 
78020, 78024  
Indonesia's 
dairy import 
system  United States  Indonesia  Dairy, 
milk, milk 
powders, 
butter, 
cheese, 
other 2 2 84, 86  86046, 84075  
Turkey's IPR 
programme  Russian 
Federation  Turkey  Wheat  2 2 84, 86  86029, 84113  
Brazil's tax 
credit 
programmes 
(Reintegros 
programme)  European 
Union  Brazil    1 2 75, 85  85035, 75002  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.102.   The CoA continued its review of the implementation of Members' commitments under the 
Agreement. Timely and complete notifications are fundamental for effective monitoring of the 
implementation of commitments. Twelve d istinct notification requirements are applicable in 
agriculture , covering the following areas: market access, domestic support, export subsidies, 
export 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 "regular" or "annual" notification requirements: (i)  imports under 
tariff and other quotas (MA:2) ; (ii) special safeguards (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 da ys following the end of the year in question, in 
accordance with the deadlines set out in document G/AG/2.  
3.103.   For the period 1995 -2016, there are a total of 1,909 outstanding regular notifications.73 
Out of the five annual notification requirements, Domestic Support (DS:1) and Export  Subsidy 
(ES:1) notifications have the highest number of outstanding notifications, as seen in Chart 3.19 
and frequently constitute the majority of pending notifications in every year since 1995. The 
number of Members' outstanding notifications of imports under tariff and other quotas (MA:2), 
special safeguards (MA:5) and notification of total exports (ES:2) is much lower. It should be 
noted, however, that domestic support and export subsidy notifications must be submitted by the 
whole Membership, whereas, in the other areas , the obligation to not ify will depend upon each 
Members' commitments.   
                                                
73 "Ad hoc " notification obligations applicable only upon maintenance of a specific measure (e.g.  ER:1 
required upon the application of export restrictions) as well as the annual notifications where it was not 
possible to determine a priori  whether the concerned not ification requirement would be applicable (e.g.  NF:1 
applicable to donor Members only) are excluded.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 66 - 
 
  Chart 3.19 Total outstanding notifications per type of notification requirement per year 
(1995 -2016)  
 
Note:   MA:2 - Imports under tariff and other quotas, MA:5  - Special safeguards, DS:1 - Domestic  
 support,  ES:1 - Export subsidies, ES:2 - Total exports.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.104.   While a large number of outstanding notifications remain, there has been a concerted 
effort by Members to bring their notifications u p-to-date. As can be seen in  Chart 3.20, 
notifications which report more than one year (which might include the required year and/or any 
pending previous years) have been submitted by Members. Since  2009, the average number of 
years reported per notification has fluctuated between two and three.  
3.105.   On average, Members have submitted 61% of expected no tifications for the period 
1995-2016, although compliance varies according to region. As noted in  Table 3.23, the region 
with the highest level of compliance is North America (Canada, Mexico and the United States) with 
94% compliance, followed by Europe with 78% compliance.  
3.106.   Only 48 Members, about 29% o f the membership, display an average compliance with 
their notification obligations of between 90 % and 100%. It should be noted that the number of 
annual notification obligations varies per Member . While all Members are required to submit 
domestic support and export subsidy notifications (DS:1 and ES:1), only some Members are 
required to submit MA:2, MA:5 and/or ES:2 notifications.  
3.107.   More than 5,000 questions have been raised regarding individual notifications under the 
CoA's review process from 1995 -2018 (u p until the February 2018 CoA meeting). Throughout the 
years , the vast majority of questions have focused on domestic support notifications (DS:1 and 
DS:2) followed by questions concerning market access, in particular TRQs (MA:1 and MA: 2) 
(Chart  3.21).  
050100150200250
MA:2 MA:5 DS:1 ES:1 ES:2Chart Agri.2
Total outstanding notifications per type of notification requirement per year (1995 -
2016)
Source:    WTO secretariat.Note: MA:2 -Imports under tariff and other quotas, MA:5 -Special safeguards, DS:1 -Domestic support, ES:1 -
Export subsidies, ES:2 -Total exports.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 67 - 
 
  Chart 3.20 Number of regular agriculture notifications and years reported (1995 -2018a) 
 
a Until 1 May 2018.  
Note:  The total number of years reported might include the required year and/or any pending previous  
 year(s). For example, a Member may submit one MA:2 notification reporting in -quota imports  
 for eight years (2000 -2007). For the purpose of this table, this means that the Member  
 therefore  reported  eight implementation years.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Table 3.24 Average compliance with notifications by region (1995 -2016)  
Region  Average Compliance (%)  
Africa  49 
Asia 63 
CIS, including associate and former member States  64 
Europe  78 
Middle East  63 
North  America  94 
South and Central America and the Caribbean  66 
Average  61 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
3.108.   From 15 October 201 7 to 30 April 2018, Members submitted 133 notifications (including 
addenda and corrigenda). A total of 141 questions were posed during the two CoA meetings 
(October 2017 and February 2018). As seen in Chart 3.222, during the review period the majority 
of questions raised related to domestic support notifications (86%). In particular, domestic support 
notifications by United States, European Union and Russian Federation attracted a considerable 
number of questions. In addition, 19 questions were raised concerning the lack of notifications 
from Egypt, European Union, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Thailand and Turkey.  
050100150200250300350400450
Number of regular notifications Total number of years reportedChart Agri.3
Number of regular notifications and years reported, 1995 -2018a
a   Until 1 May 2018.
Source:  WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 68 - 
 
  Chart 3.21 Questions raised on individual notifications per section per year 
(1995 -2018a) 
 
a 2018 data covers the February 2018 CoA meeting.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Chart 3.22 Number of questions rai sed per section (mid -October 2017 – mid May 2018a) 
 
a Questions raised in the CoA meetings in October 2017 and February 2018.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
020406080100120140160180200220240260280300
NFIDC Decision Domestic Support Market Access Export restrictions Export competition
Source:  WTO Secretariat.Chart Agri.4
Questions raised on individual notifications per section per year, 1995 -2018a
a   2018 data covers the February 2018 CoA meeting.
Number of questions
Overdue 
Notifications
10Market access
13
Export competition
3
NFIDC Decision
1Article 18.6
64Individual 
notifications
141Domestic 
support
124Chart Agri.5
Number of questions raised per section (mid -October 2017 -mid-May 2018a)
a   Questions raised in the CoA meetings in October 2017 and February 2018.
Source:  WTO Secretariat.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  3.109.   The following box on agricultural transfers has been provided by the OECD.  
Box 3.4 Almost two -thirds of the US$0.5  trillion transferred annually to farmers comes 
in distorting, inefficient forms  
In 2015 -17, agricultural policies in 51 OECD and key emerging economies transferred US$484  billion a year on 
averag e directly to farmers. Put differently: more than 15 cents in every dollar received by farmers ( "gross 
farm receipts ") originates in some form of public support. Of these transfers, on average, 64% was provided 
via highly trade - and production -distorting m easures – namely, market price support, and payments based on 
output or on unconstrained variable input use. An additional US$86  billion a year was spent on general support 
to the sector. The OECD 's Agricultural Policy Monitoring and Evaluation 2018  report  looks at how this support is 
provided, assesses its possible effects and suggests ways forward.  
Compared with the mid -1990s, the level of producer support has fallen in most countries covered by the report 
(Figure 1). Just as importantly, the nature of th is producer support is changing, with reductions in the share 
provided via highly trade - and production -distorting measures. In some large emerging economies, however, 
both the level of producer support and the share of most distorting support ha ve increas ed. Overall, there are 
wide differences across countries:  some countries – both OECD and emerging economies – have very low 
levels of support, while support levels in four OECD countries remain above 50% of gross farm receipts.  
It is not just the level of support but how it is provided that matters. Many countries have reduced the trade 
impacts of their policies by more than the decline in their overall levels of support by shifting the type of 
support provided to less trade -distorting forms (Figure 2). In contrast, other countries have increased the 
share of their support given in the most distorting forms, so the trade impacts have increased by more than 
the increase in support would suggest.  
Moreover, most agricultural policies in place today are not wel l-aligned with countries ' goals for the sector: 
increasing productivity growth, enhancing the sector 's environmental performance, improving resilience, and 
enabling farm households to improve their standard of living. As a priority, eliminating production - and trade -
distorting support would allow farmers to benefit fully from market opportunities and discourage overuse of 
farm inputs. Importantly, it would also make scarce public funds available for more efficient and effective 
investments, including target ed support for improved environmental outcomes and other public goods. 
Agricultural support could also be better focused on key services for the sector where there is a net benefit to 
society, including investments in agricultural innovation systems, secto ral infrastructure, and biosecurity 
controls. Using freed -up resources for ensuring social protection for low -income households would address food 
insecurity more efficiently than farm support.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  Figure  1. Level and composition of the Producer 
Support Estim ate by country, 2015 -17 
Percentage of gross farm receipts  
 
 
Source: OECD (2018), "Producer and Consumer Support 
Estimates", OECD Agriculture statistics (database), 
http://dx.doi.org/10.1787/agr -pcse-data-en. 
Note: the Producer Support Estimate measures support 
provided to agricultural producers, both in the form of 
direct payments and as a result of domestic policies 
affecting prices and through  protection.  It is expressed as 
a percentage of gross farm revenue s.  Figure  2. Percentage point changes in %PSE and 
Trade Impact Index, 1995 -97 to 2015 -17 
Selected economies  
 
Source : OECD calculations based on PEM model results 
and OECD (2018), "Producer and Consumer Support 
Estimates", OECD Agriculture statistics (dat abase), 
http://dx.doi.org/10.1787/agr -pcse-data-en. 
Notes : EU: EU15 for 1995 -97, EU28 for 2015 -17  
Viet Nam and Philippines: 1995 -97 replaced by 2000 -02  
Source:  OECD. For more information: OECD (2018), Agricultural Policy Monitoring and Evaluation 2018 , 
OECD Publishing, Paris. https://doi.org/10.1787/22217371 . 
3.7  General Economic Support  
3.110.   The number of WTO Members that provided information on general economic support 
measures for this Report was similar to the most recent reports. More than 30 Members were 
requested to verify various general support measures or subsidy programmes. The response rate 
to this request was di sappointingly low and many insisted that these measures not be included in 
the Report. Inevitably, this reinforced the conclusion of previous reports that Members appear 
reluctant to enhance transparency in this area and also that the universe of general e conomic 
support measures is much greater than what the monitoring exercise has managed to capture.  At 
the same time, it is imperative  to recognize that despite the often significant financial cost of such 
programmes, not all general economic support measur es have trade -related effects and 
determining their impact on trade flows can be a complex exercise.  
3.111.   This Report identified and requested verification of over 60 general economic support 
measures or subsidy programmes covering a multitude of economic secto rs, including transport, 
mining, energy and electricity, agriculture and aid schemes to assist SMEs. Many of these were 
multi-year programmes with financial disbursements staggered over the lifetime of the project. 
Other measures were one -off grants or aid  schemes. In monetary terms, programmes ranged from 
several hundred thousand U.S. dollars to in excess of US$19 billion.  
3.112.   Almost 40% of these programmes were taken within the framework of one WTO Member 
which generally publishes detailed information of such  measures and programmes. However, 
taking into account the low participation and response rate , there was little basis to create an 
annex for these types of policies. Such an annex would likely not have presented a balanced and 
credible account of recent developments in the area of subsidies and general economic support 
measures among the WTO member ship. In the November 2016 Trade Monitoring Report, the 
Secretariat provided a brief historical overview of trends in the area of these measures recorded 
-20% -15% -10% -5% 0% 5% 10% 15%
European
Union
Japan
Colombia
Viet Nam
Canada
United
States
Philippines
ChinaPercentage points, relative to gross farm receipts%TII change %PSE changeWT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  since 2008. This concluded that although the large economy -wide subsidies and high -profile 
bail-outs o f the early years of the financial crisis are no longer prevalent, there was no evidence 
that governments had turned their back on subsidization as a policy tool, particularly in certain 
strategic industries or sectors.  
3.113.   WTO Members may wish to reflect and  provide further guidance on how this issue might be 
best addressed in future Reports, including whether  an alternative approach for reporting general 
economic support measures should be considered.  
3.8  Other Selected Trade Policy Developments  
3.114.   The following Se ction provides a brief overview of other selected trade policy issues where 
important developments took place during the review period, including follow -up to a number of 
issues which saw outcomes at MC11 in Buenos Aires.  
Trade Facilitation  
3.115.   Members have co ntinued to notify instruments of acceptance of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement (TFA), since it's entry into force on 22 February 2017. Between mid -October 2017 and 
mid-May 2018, 15 additional instruments were deposited. This brought the overall number to 136 
ratifications, covering close to 83% of WTO membership.  
3.116.   Advances were made in the area of notifications, where Members submitted information 
regarding commitments that will be implemented immediately, those that require additional time 
and those that also require capacity building support .74 By mid -May 2018, a total of 112 Members 
had presented notifications to the Committee concerning category A, 62 Members on category B 
and 52 on category C.  
3.117.   By mid -May 2018 , 50 Members ha d also presented a series of transparency notifications as 
mandated under Section I of the TFA.75 In addition, 13 donor Members provided information on 
their technical assistance activities.  
ITA Expansion  
3.118.   Under the ITA Expansion Agreement, import tariffs on most of the 201 IT products  covered 
by the Agreement have been progressively reduced since 1 July 2016 and will be eliminated after 
three years (by 1 July 2019), whereas other duties and charges are to be removed upon entry into 
force. For a limited number of sensitive products, tar iffs will be phased out over five or seven 
years for the most exceptional cases. On 3 November 2017, Georgia joined the ITA Expansion 
Agreement, bringing the total number of Participants to 26, representing 55  WTO Members.  
3.119.   As of May 2018, 22 Participants were on track with the implementation of the tariff cuts, 
while the others were awaiting the completion of domestic procedural requirements.76 As required 
by Paragraph 6 of the Declaration, 25 Participants have also initiated the 1980 Procedures for 
Modific ation and Rectification of Schedules in order to include the new ITA Expansion concessions 
into their WTO Schedules and extend them to all WTO Members on an MFN  basis. To date, the ITA 
Expansion schedules of 22 Participants have been certified by the WTO  Director General, and their 
concessions properly reflected in their WTO Schedules. Remaining Participants' ITA Expansion 
schedules were waiting for the completion of domestic procedures before they could be certified.  
3.120.   The ITA Expansion Declaration also provides for further work on non -tariff barriers in the 
IT sector, and for keeping the list of products covered under review to determine whether further 
expansion may be needed to reflect future technological developments.  
                                                
74 Referred to as "category A, B and C notifications".  
75 Articles 1:4, 10:4:3, 10:6:2 and 12:2:2.  
76 Members implementing the ITA Expansion Agreement are re flected in Annex 1.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  Government Procurement  
3.121.   The WTO A greement on Government Procurement (GPA) continues to gain importance as 
an instrument for promoting trade, good governance and sustainable development in government 
procurement markets. The updated and modernized version of the Agreement that was adopted by 
the Parties in 2012 is now in force for all but one of the Agreement's Parties.77 The Agreement 
covers the procurement of goods, services and construction services, subject to relevant 
thresholds and other exclusions, and contains important disciplines o n transparency , the 
prevention of corruption  and market access.  
3.122.   The total number of WTO Members covered by the Agreement reached 47. The number of 
WTO Members participating in the GPA Committee as observers is now 31. Increasingly, WTO 
Members are joining the GPA for reasons relating to the promotion of good governance and 
economic reform, in addition to market access benefits for their national suppliers. Further 
additions to the Agreement's membership are expected in the short to medium term. The 
negotiat ion on Australia's accession is expected to be officially concluded in 2018.  Discussions on 
the Kyrgyz Republic's and Tajikistan's accessions are approaching their final stage , with a limited 
number of issues remaining to be addressed. The Russian Federation circulated its initial market 
access in June 2017 and its replies to the Checklist of Issues Concerning GPA Accession in January 
2018.  The Former  Yugoslav Republic of Macedo nia circulated its first market access offer in late 
February 2018, which was discussed at the Committee's meetings. China announced recently that 
it would expedite the process of accession to the GPA . The accessions of four other WTO Members 
— Albania, Ge orgia, Jordan and Oman — are pending. Another five WTO Members have provisions 
regarding accession to the Agreement in their respective Protocols of Accession to the WTO: 
Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Seychelles.  
3.123.   With regard to the Committee's ongoing work, the GPA Parties have initiated discussions 
on a number of specific work programmes. These address, inter alia : (i) promoting access to 
government procurement markets by SMEs; (ii)  ensuring sustainability in public pr ocurement 
activities; and (iii) improving the statistics that Parties submit pursuant to relevant provisions of 
the GPA. Work has already been conducted on a separate work programme on identifying and 
(potentially) reducing the number of exceptions and exc lusions to coverage that are included in 
the Parties' market access schedules. The purpose of these work programmes is to enhance 
transparency and, where relevant, contribute to the future evolution of the Agreement. The 
Secretariat, at the Committee's req uest, has also worked to strengthen the new "e -GPA system", 
an interactive, automated web portal to enhance the accessibility and usability of the market 
access and other information provided by Parties pursuant to the Agreement.  
                                                
77 Switzerland is in the process of modifying its domestic legislation in order to implement the revised 
GPA and will become a Party to it when relevant domestic procedures are completed.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  3.124.   Box 3.5 takes a closer loo k at effects of technology and trade on labour markets.  
Box 3.5 Trade, technology and jobs  
What are the effects of technology and trade on labour markets? Are all countries benefitting equally or are 
some being left behind by globalization and advances in technology? What are governments already doing and 
what else could they do to ensure that trade and technology are as inclusive as possible?  
 
Technology and trade – two of the most powerful drivers of global eco nomic progress – can also raise 
economic adjustment challenges. Available evidence suggests that technological advances and trade have 
yielded important benefits for economies overall and do not have significant effects on aggregate labour 
market outcomes,  but that they may sometimes adversely affect certain types of workers and/or regions. 
Helping workers adjust to changes in the labour market and ensuring that benefits are spread more widely can 
increase the positive impact of open trade and technological  progress.  
 
While both forces can have similar effects on workers, empirical evidence attributes most of the disruptions of 
the labour market to technological change, including automation. In many countries, technological progress 
combined with an income e lasticity of demand that is higher for services than for manufacturing products, and 
to a lesser extent trade, have contributed , and continue to contribute , to a decline in the share of 
manufacturing jobs as employment shifts toward the services sector (se e Figure). All over the world, both 
forces contribute to an increase in the demand for skilled workers. Recent research also shows that the effects 
of trade on employment may vary significantly by region depending on exposure to import competition. These 
changes raise important adjustment challenges , as workers who lose their jobs in declining sectors and/or in 
exposed regions are not always well equipped and well placed to access newly created jobs.  
 
Evolution of employment share by sector (1970 to 2012)  
 
 
_______________  
Source: Timmer, M. P., de Vries, G. J., & de Vries, K. (2015) . 
Note: This figure covers 40 countries:  10 developed and 30 developing. The agriculture sector includes activities in 
agriculture, hunting, forestry and fishing. The industry sector includes mining and quarrying, manufacturing, 
construction and public utilities (electricity, gas and water).  
0.10.20.30.40.50.6
1970
1971
1972
1973
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
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1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012World employment share (%)
Agriculture Industry ServicesWT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  Technological change does not only lead to the reallocation of workers between sectors, it also affects the 
relative earnings of workers with different skills, and the skill composition of employment. For the United 
States, it has recently been estimated tha t computerization is the central force driving changes in wage 
differentials between workers with different levels of education, accounting for 60% of the rise in the skill 
premium. With few exceptions, empirical literature confirms the idea that technolog ical change is a major 
driver of the decline in routine occupations, and of the consequent employment polarization, in developed 
economies, while in the case of developing countries, the evidence that technological change is biased against 
routine employme nt is mixed.  
 
Like technological change, trade leads to a reallocation of economic activity and therefore induces changes in 
countries' employment structure s at the level of tasks, occupations, firms or sectors. In advanced economies, 
trade increases the r elative demand for high ly-skilled workers, especially in non -routine occupations. Trade 
also raised the demand for skilled workers in some developing countries. The increased demand for skills often 
translates not only into an increased share of skilled wo rkers in employment but also into a higher skill 
premium, that is, an increase in nominal wages of highly -skilled workers relative to low -skilled workers.  
 
Some experts argue that history will repeat itself, and that the next wave of technological advances  will replace 
many existing jobs, creating new ones. Other experts disagree, arguing that the new wave of technologies is 
different (in terms of speed, scale and force) and will replace human jobs on a massive scale, leading to a 
"jobless future". Several studies and reports have attempted to estimate the share of jobs that are at high risk 
of automation. Different methodologies and underlying assumptions lead to substantially different estimated 
shares of jobs vulnerable to automation, where the largest es timates are up to four times larger than the 
smallest. Yet, independently of the methodology used, the estimated probability of automation is not 
equivalent to future unemployment and should therefore be interpreted with caution.  
 
In any case, people will need more creative and effective help to adjust to economic change, irrespective of its 
specific causes. Many Member countries are currently stepping up their efforts to ensure that no one is left 
behind by globalization and technological progress. Obstacl es to the mobility of workers between jobs 
considerably raise the cost of adjustment. These obstacles can take various forms, such as the mismatch 
between the new skills demanded by an increasingly information -driven global economy and the older skill set 
of many workers.  
 
In that context, domestic policies and institutions play a key role in helping economies to make the most of 
economic change, by facilitating labour adjustment and sharing benefits more widely. Experience suggests that 
success in facilit ating adjustment involves finding an appropriate balance between labour market flexibility, on 
the one hand, and employment security, on the other. Active labour market policies which help workers retrain 
and find new job openings, and assist them with rel ocation, can support people and encourage their transition 
into new opportunities.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Dispute Settlement  
3.125.   During the review period, 36 panel -, appellate - and arbitration proceedings were handled, 
on average, each month. Twelve  dispute settlement reports, awards and decisions were circulated 
during this period ( Chart 3.23). Six of the circulated reports were issued by panels, and three 
reports were issued by compliance panels established under Article 21.5 of the DSU. The Appellate 
Body circulated two reports.  In addition, Article 21.3(c) of the DSU arbitrators issued one decision 
regarding the reasonable period of time for implementation of DSB recommendations and rulings. 
By mid -May 2018, an additional 13 panel reports and eight appeals were pending, and four  panel 
reports issued to parties were being translated for circulation to Members. Four Members have 
requested authorization to suspend concessions or other obligations in disputes where the 
responding parties have failed to make their measures consistent with their WTO obligations.   
3.126.   Although the dispute settlement system is under pressure at the moment, including as a 
result of the ongoing impasse over the filling of Appellate Body vacancies, Members continue to 
use it as a means of resolving their trade d isputes. During the review period, WTO Members filed 
13 requests for consultations concerning new disputes and two requests seeking compliance 
proceedings. Four new panels and three Article 21.5 panels were established. In addition, three 
new panels were c omposed during the review period. As of mid -May 2018, seven established 
panels were in composition. While there are no longer any delays in a panel beginning its work due 
to unavailability of Secretariat staff, delays are being experienced at the appeal st age due to the 
high number of recently circulated panel reports which has resulted in an increased workload for 
the Appellate Body. By mid -May 2018, there were eight ongoing appeal proceedings, including in 
the compliance proceedings in the EC and Certain Member States – Large Civil Aircraft (Article 
21.5 – US) and US — Large Civil Aircraft (second complaint) (Article 21.5 – EU) disputes.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 75 - 
 
  3.127.   The subject matter of disputes brought to the WTO continues to span a wide range of 
agreements, including the GATT 1994,  the AD Agreement, the SCM Agreement, the Safeguards 
Agreement, the SPS Agreement, the TBT Agreement, the GATS, the TRIPS Agreement and the 
AoA. The first request for consultations citing the TFA has also been made. Both developed and 
developing countr y Members continue to be active in the dispute settlement mechanism, both as 
complainants and as respondents.  
Chart 3.23 Total number of active disputes per year (as at April 2018)  
 
a  2018 data are based on the  average of the number of active disputes in January, February, March 
 and April.  
Note:  Several disputes are counted as one if they deal with the same subject matter.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Trade Finance  
3.128.   The global trade finance gap, as measured by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in 2017, 
has remained high since 2013, at around US$1.5 trillion , or some 10 % to 15% of the total value of 
trade finance markets. WTO Members are concerned by the fact that the g aps disproportionately 
affect developing countries and SMEs who, on average, see 60% of their requests for trade finance 
rejected. According to the Global Enabling Trade Report by the World Economic Forum, lack of 
trade finance is among the top three obsta cles to exporting for half of the countries in the world.  
3.129.   In the past year or so, progress on trade finance has been recorded in several areas, 
thanks to the joint action of partner institutions such as multilateral development banks (MDBs) 
and the Intern ational Chamber of Commerce. In 2017, total financing and guarantees provided by 
MDBs under trade finance facilitation program mes in developing countries reached approximately 
US$30 billion, up from about US$22 billion in 2016. With the recovery of global trade flows 
forecasted in 2018, demand for MDB credit and guarantee facilities are likely to increase. However, 
representatives of MDBs have indicated that an important long -term solution to the trade finance 
challenge remains bringing the private sector b ack into the most challenging markets. One way 
was to develop co -financing and co -risk sharing among MDBs where geographical coverage 
overlapped, and between MDBs and commercial banks. For example, the International Financial 
Corporation (IFC) and the Isla mic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) recently signed a 
Memorandum of Understanding to conduct joint trade finance operations in Western Africa. The 
051015202530354045
1995
1996
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2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
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2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018a
Source:  WTO Secretariat.Chart DS.1
Total number of active disputes per year (as at April 2018)a
a  2018 data are based on the average of the number of active disputes in January, February, March and April.WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 76 - 
 
  WTO will continue its advocacy and technical work in 2018 with the heads of multilateral agencies, 
the Finan cial Stability Board and other stakeholders.  
Fishery Subsidies  
3.130.   At MC11, Ministers adopted a Decision on the fisheries subsidies negotiations, with 
sustainable development considerations at its core. In particular, the Decision incorporates the 
main eleme nts of SDG Target 14.6, including its deadline. It instructs Members to engage 
constructively in the fisheries subsidies negotiations, with a view to adopting, by the WTO's 
Ministerial Conference in 2019, comprehensive and effective disciplines that prohib it certain forms 
of fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing, and eliminate subsidies that 
contribute to IUU fishing recognizing that appropriate and effective special and differential 
treatment for developing country Members and  LDC Members should be an integral part of these 
negotiations.  
3.131.   On the basis of this Decision, the Negotiating Group on Rules is engaged in an active 
programme of work structured around the main issue areas previously identified in the fisheries 
subsidies negotiations. The WTO is thus in a position to deliver, at its next Ministerial Conference, 
on the sustainable trade and development promise of the fisheries subsidies negotiations.  
Electronic Commerce  
3.132.   Discussions on electronic commerce in the WTO gained momentum in 2016 and 
engagement remained very high in 2017 and 2018. In the many submissions received from 
Members, numerous ideas have been put forward on how the WTO should address e -commerce 
given the changing nature of trade. The increased momentum and  interest was reflected in the 
run-up to and at MC11 where ministers adopted a decision on the Work Programme on Electronic 
Commerce. In that Decision, ministers agreed to continue and reinvigorate work under the Work 
Programme and extended the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions until  
MC12 . In addition, on the margins of MC11, a diverse group of more than 70 Members endorsed a 
Joint Statement on Electronic Commerce78, with the objective of exploring work towards future 
WTO negotiations on trade -related aspects of electronic commerce. Since MC11, work is ongoing 
under the auspices of the GC and the relevant bodies as well as under the Joint Statement 
initiative where participation is open to all WTO Members.  
3.133.   The Work Programme on E -commer ce is based on a broad definition of "electronic 
commerce" that covers the production, distribution, marketing, sale or delivery of goods and 
services by electronic means. The definition therefore includes the use of networks, such as the 
Internet, to sear ch, purchase, advertise and sell goods and services online , as well as to supply 
services electronically across borders. For retail shopping, where statistics are more readily 
available, an estimated 1.66 billion people worldwide purchased merchandise onli ne in 2017, with 
global e -retail sales at US$2.3 trillion. This represented a 24.8% increase over 2016, and, by 
2021, growth of up to US$4.48 trillion is anticipated. In Asia Pacific, online retail sales accounted 
for 12.1% of retail sales in 2016, but acc ounted only for only 1.8% in the Middle East and Africa.79 
Data on wholesale sales, and business -to-business e -commerce and online services are much 
harder to come by, but are conservatively estimated at 10 times the volume of retail e -commerce.  
More recently, sales over mobile devices have become a key factor. This so -called M -commerce 
reportedly accounted for 58.9% of digital sales of merchandise in 2017 , and is expected to 
represent 70% of the e -commerce traffic by the end of 2018.  
3.134.   As ha s been ackno wledged in WTO discussions, connectivity is essential to participation in 
e-commerce , and developing countries lag behind. Moreover, although nearly 54% of the world 's 
households ha d access to Internet as of 2017, the figure was 15% for LDCs.  However, the bar 
continues to rise , as broadband Internet access, where the gap is greater, is now considered 
essential.  Nevertheless, mobile broadband shows promise, growing more than 20% annually. As of 
2017, mobile broadband penetration in developed countries was fo ur times higher than in LDCs, 
                                                
78 WT/MIN(17)/60.  
79 Statista.com, "E -commerce Worl dwide", https://www.statista.com/topics/871/online -shopping/ , 
accessed April 2017.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 77 - 
 
  but the annual growth rate of subscriptions in LDCs is over 50% and prices in these markets are 
continuing a downward trend .80 
3.135.   At the same time, governments , both developed and developing , continue to take steps to 
enhance connectivity. Many are now including broadband Internet in universal service 
programmes, mandating minimum access speeds, and creating dedicated funds or incentive 
projects to promote broadband penetration. Some of the te lecom/ICT measures listed in this 
Report illustrate this trend. For example, Chile is mandating minimum access speeds for both fixed 
and mobile Internet providers , and Togo is expanding the scope of its universal service programme 
to include Internet. To h elp reduce prices, the U nited Kingdom  published regulation of wholesale, 
high-speed broadband services and Niger has abolished taxes on incoming telecommunications 
traffic.  Another entry shows that Benin has joined a West African roaming arrangement that 
permits subscribers to roam at local rates. Improving the competitive and regulatory framework 
also contribut es to connectivity. For example, also cited in this Report, Guyana is now setting up 
an independent telecommunications regulator.  In addition, the K ingdom of Saudi Arabia has 
introduced a technology neutral licensing regime so that licensees can provide a broader array of 
services.  
3.136.   Meanwhile, as on -line commerce becomes more widespread, governments are struggling 
to adapt their regulations and taking varied paths to do so. Examples cited in Section  4 include the 
entry into force of the new European data privacy regulation, a U.S. FCC ruling to reduce controls 
over Internet providers, reversing their classification as a regulated "common carrier " 
service,  South African measures to regulate online content, including videos, streaming and social 
media, Russian Federation rules on the registration of electronic messenger services and rules to 
prevent the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) to circ umvent blocked content,  Chinese 
measures enforcing mandatory licensing of VPNs, and an agreement, announced by the European 
Commission, on a new requirement covering, for example,  video -on-demand and video sharing, 
such as levels of European content requir ed and the extension of the rules to user -generated 
platforms.  
Investment Facilitation  
3.137.   One important outcome from MC11 was the Joint Ministerial Statement on Investment 
Facilitation for Development81, co-sponsored by 70 WTO Members , which calls for launchi ng 
"structured discussions with the aim of developing a multilateral framework on Investment 
Facilitation". A significant feature of the initiative is its focus on "facilitating ", rather than 
"protecting ", investment ,  the traditional concern of  internatio nal investment regimes. In the same 
way that the WTO is helping to facilitate global trade , with the 2017 T FA, co-sponsoring Members 
argue that the WTO could also help to facilitate global investment. Another feature of the initiative 
is that developing co untries were the initial proponents, although key developed economies have 
now joined as well.  The co -sponsors ' Joint Ministerial Statement account s for over 74 % of world 
trade, 6 6% of inward FDI, and 61%  of global GDP , and include Members from all major r egions 
and all levels of development. The third, and perhaps most, significant feature of the initiative is 
that it is being driven by a group of like -minded Members , not by the full WTO membership , but 
their explicit goal remains reaching a non -discrimina tory, multilateral outcome.  
Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)  
3.138.   At MC11 , 88 WTO Members - the Friends of MSMEs - issued a Joint Ministerial Statement82 
establishing an Informal Working Group to look into how challenges faced by MSMEs could be 
addressed in a cohesive way within the WTO context. The Friends of MSMEs, led by a nine -Member 
Coordinating Committee83, have since then developed a Road Map of them atic sessions to be held 
over the course of 2018. The first event took place on 27 March 2018 and focused on Access to 
Information for MSMEs and on how to operationalize the Global Trade Helpdesk. Forthcoming 
sessions will cover: access to trade finance , reduction of trade costs , how technical assistance and 
capacity building initiatives could better take into account the trade needs and challenges of 
                                                
80 "ICT Facts and Figures 2017 ", ITU.  
81 Document WT/MIN(17)/59.  
82 Document WT/MIN17/58/Rev.1.  
83 Bahrain, Kingdom of ; Côte d 'Ivoire; El Salvador; Hong -Kong, China; Nigeria; Pakistan; the 
Philippines; Switzerland; and Uruguay (general coordinator).  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  MSMEs , and access to global markets - the Internet as a tool to address challenges for MSMEs in 
their effor ts to reach global markets. These sessions, of an exploratory nature, aim at identifying a 
set of concrete, horizontal and non -discriminatory measures that Members could take in order to 
strengthen MSME participation in global trade.  
Women's Economic Empow erment  
 
3.139.   Supporting the participation of women in international trade is a key component of the 
inclusive trade solutions that many governments are now adopting. The Buenos Aires Declaration 
on Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment84, signed by 122 WTO Memb ers and Observers, 
seeks to ensure that the WTO works to make trade more inclusive and increases the participation 
of women in trade. To date, the Declaration's signatories represent 75% of world trade. 
Signatories have specifically agreed to explore and f ind ways to best tackle barriers to trade faced 
by women; to better understand the links between trade and women's empowerment through 
dedicated events, discussions and exchange of information , and to collect relevant economic data.  
3.140.   Many Members have devel oped national strategies and development programmes including 
gender equality goals and women's empowerment priorities. One major objective is to increase 
women's participation in the workforce. Particular attention is being paid to empowering women in 
areas such as finance, agriculture government procurement, tourism and construction. In 
particular, a diverse range of support programmes are being reported. These include training and 
technical assistance (finance literacy, vocational training, competing in international markets); 
accessing credit, loans and guarantees for small businesses (rural producers and innovative 
companies) and strengthening the development of MSMEs. In agriculture, some domestic support 
is targeted at women (mostly supporting trainin g activities) with the objective of increasing 
productivity and production. Some Members have government procurement schemes giving 
preferences to companies with gender equality policies or to women -led SMEs.  
3.141.   The following box, on digital technologies as a  tool for gender -inclusive trade, has been 
contributed by the ITC.  
Box 3.6 Digital technologies as a tool for gender -inclusive trade  
Women represent a great untapped resource in governments ' economic and development arsenals. Women 's 
labour force participation continues to lag behind that of men. Firms are much more likely to be owned or 
managed by men. Yet, income earned by women is more likely to be invested in children 's education, health 
and nutrition.a Enabling women to generate higher incomes would therefore contribute to communities ' 
long-term well-being. It has been estimated that raising female labour force participation and entrepreneurship 
to male levels could raise GDP by 15 to 27% , depending on the region.b  
 
Women also continue to be under -represented in international trade with only one of every five exporting 
companies being led by a woman.c Legal, cultural, financial and digital barriers continue to prevent women 
from fully con tributing to their economies. Acknowledging this reality, the 2017 Buenos Aires Declaration on 
Women and Trade calls for more action towards identifying and removing barriers to women 's economic 
empowerment and increasing their participation in internation al trade.  
 
A series of recent data -gathering exercises by the ITC have shed light on barriers that continue to prevent 
women from reaching their full potential as equal economic actors.  
 
ITC business surveys on non -tariff measures (NTMs) show that female -owned exporter  companies  report 
procedural obstacles to trade more frequently than their male -owned counterparts (Figure). In particular, 
female -owned micro firms report a higher share of procedural obstacles due to 'informal or high payments ' and 
'discrim inatory behaviour ' than male -owned micro firms. Since micro firms are often one -person enterprises, it 
is plausible that women owner -managers are also responsible for trade -related administrative processes, 
leaving them more exposed to potential discrimina tion by officials.d The digitalization  of export procedures 
could help overcome gender discrimination by reducing face -to-face interaction to obtain export -related 
documentation.  
                                                
84 Viewed at https://www.wto.org/english/thewto_e/minist_e/mc11_e/genderdeclarationmc11_e.pdf . WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  Figure: Share of procedural obstacles at home and abroad, by gender  
 
 
_______________  
Note:  The box plot shows the distribution of the share of burdensome procedural obstacles in terms of quartiles at 
 home and by the partner country. A transaction is a firm−product−partner combination.  
Source: SME Competitiveness Outlook 20 16 
However, women are 6% less likely to have Internet accesse, which hampers access to digital tools. It is also 
the case that female entrepreneurs are under -represented in the ICT sector, where they account for only 18% 
of businesses (compared to 30% in t he clothing sector).f There is nevertheless increased evidence that women 
successfully use digital tools when they are available. For example, ITC data shows that  about 80% of 
women -led services companies surveyed in Sri Lanka, Kenya and Indonesia engage i n social media 
advertising, while less than half use traditional advertising.g 
  
Digital solutions have contributed to bringing down barriers to female entrepreneurship in a number of areas. 
For instance, the use of mobile money solutions has in some countries represented a means for women to 
overcome their traditionally limited access to banking services.h By becoming early adopters of more efficient 
new payment procedures, women keep records of all transactions, which makes it easier to obtain loans.   
 
A recent ITC e -commerce survey found that female -owned firms are significantly more active in e -commerce 
than in traditional trade: among exporters conducting e -commerce alone, women entrepreneurs accounted for 
a share twice as high as for firms conduct ing only traditional off -line trade.i 
 
Notwithstanding a gender gap , when it comes to access to  ICT digital technologies hold the promise to unleash 
women 's potential in business development and trade. Policy makers can contribute to making it happen by 
boosting digital solutions for business transactions - including through the implementation of the TFA - and 
promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education for girls and women.   
_______________  
a Morrison, A.; Raju, D.; Sinha,  N. (2007). Gender Equality, Poverty and Economic Growth. Policy 
Research Working Paper; No. 4349. World Bank, Washington, DC.  
b McKinsey Global Institute (2015). The power of parity , Cuberes D. & Teigner M. (2012), Gender gaps 
in the labor market and agg regate productivity, Sheffield Economic Research Paper Series, SERP Number: 
2012017  
c Davies, R. B., and Mazhikeyev, A. (2015). The glass border: gender and exporting in developing 
countries UCD Centre for Economic Research Working Paper Series, N.2015&25,  University College Dublin, 
School of Economics; ITC business surveys on NTMs, 2010 -2017, www.ntmsurvey.org.  
d ITC (2016) Meeting the standard for trade, SME Competitiveness Outlook . 
e International Telecommunication Union (2016), ICT facts and figures . 
f ITC business surveys on NTMs, 2010 -2017, www.ntmsurvey.org . 
g ITC (2017) Promoting SME competitiveness in Kenya and ITC (2017) Promoting SME competitiveness 
in Indonesia,  and ITC (2018) Promoting SME competitiveness in Sri Lanka.  
h ITC (2017) Closing the small -business and gender gap to make trade more inclusive in: OECD & WTO, 
Aid for Trade at a glance 2017, Promoting Trade, Inclusiveness and Connectivity for Sustainable Development  
i ITC (2017). New Pathways to E -commerce: A Globa l MSME Competitiveness Survey. ITC. Geneva 
http://www.intracen.org/publication/New -Pathways -to-E-commerce/ . 
Source:  ITC. 
WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  3.142.   The following box on a multidimensional approach to trade policy indicators has been 
contributed by the IMF.  
Box 3.7 A multidimensional approach to trade policy indicator s  
Recent events have underscore d the importance of trade and trade policy to the global economy. A move 
towards inward looking policies can risk undermining the economic recovery underway. More broadly, 
addressing trade distortions can also raise productivity and growth, and a generalize d move to more open 
trade that reduces foreign barriers can facilitate adjustment in countries facing greater import competition (see 
IMF-WTO-WB, 2017). Trade policy discussions stand to benefit from having a strong factual basis covering the 
multiple dime nsions that are nowadays relevant to assess trade policy. To this end, this Box describes and 
discusses a set of indicators of trade regimes which can be a helpful tool to guide policy discussions (see 
Cerdeiro and Nam, 2018).  
Barriers to trade can take m any different forms, ranging from import tariffs, to regulatory barriers, to 
restrictions on services trade, to controls on foreign investment. Because of this diversity, no single indicator 
can provide a complete characterization of a country 's trade regi me. The indicators relate to three different 
areas of trade policy – trade in goods, trade in services, and FDI. It is worth stressing that none of the 
indicators described aims to benchmark countries ' performance against commitments they may have, either 
under the WTO or vis-à-vis any other forum or agreement.  
Figure 1 illustrates the results for the G20 as well as its advanced country and emerging market (EM) 
members. On the left -hand-side panel of the Figure, four of the indicators aim to measure barrie rs to goods 
trade: average tariffs, the fraction of imports covered by non -automatic licensing procedures, an index on 
trade facilitation, and the level of agricultural support. In addition, there are two indicators measuring 
restrictions to services trade , and two indicators that aim to capture barriers to FDI. All indicators are 
normalized such that being closer to the edge of the chart should be read as being more open.a 
There are at least two salient features in the chart. First, on average G20 advanced  economies (AE) appear to 
have more open trade regimes than their emerging -market counterparts, with the exception of agricultural 
support, which remains relatively large in some AEs. We should not necessarily expect emerging market 
countries to be as open  as AEs, which began to open to trade much earlier, and it is worth noting that EMs 
have liberalized faster over the last two decades, particularl y from the mid -1990s to the mid -2000s, after 
which liberalization slowed across all countries. Second, the gap  between advanced economies and 
emerging -market economies is particularly pronounced for one of the services trade measures and trade 
facilitation. This lends partial support to the view that liberalization efforts have been somewhat asymmetric 
not just ac ross countries, but also across sectors.  
In light of concerns that the period since the 2008 financial crisis has seen an increase in different forms of 
protectionism despite pledges to avoid this outcome, we also present indicators that reflect the evolut ion of a 
more granular set of trade policies since 2008. While there is considerable heterogeneity within groups of 
countr ies, overall, however, emerging -market G20 members appear to have adopted more trade -restricting 
measures since the 2008 financial cri sis (Figure 1, right -hand-side panel).  
_______________  
 a Since the different indicators are not expressed in comparable units of measure, we normalize every 
indicator with respect to a reference set of countries (G20 members in this Box), where 0 correspo nds to the country 
that is least open and 1 to the country that is most open for that indicator. It is important to bear in mind that the 
comparability across different policy dimensions that this normalization allows is only in a distance -to-frontier sens e. 
 
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  Figure 1. Selected Trade Policy Indicators –Example with G20 Member Countries  
 
All countries, however, including AEs, remain relatively far from free trade. Figure 2 shows the resulting 
indicators of countries ' trade regimes if the edge of the chart represents free trade, rather than the most open 
country within the G20. The distance from free trade is largest for services restrictions, investment 
restrictions, trade facilitation, and, interestingly, in further MFN tariff reductions.  
Because of the limitations inherent in any 
summary indicator, and given the lack of 
quantitative information for some important 
policy areas, these indicators are best used in 
conjunction with qualitative sources, including 
WTO Trad e Policy Reviews. Information about 
countries ' specific context is also essential for 
discussions about the scope, sequencing and 
pace of trade reforms (see e.g. IMF, 2010). It 
would also be useful to quantify the other 
aspects of countries ' trade regimes – including in 
areas such as behind -the-border regulations that 
can hinder trade, state support (subsidies, 
SOEs), government procurement, and 
intellectual property. Better data, both across 
countries and in terms of policy areas that 
significantly affect trade, would encourage 
better -informed policy discussions.  
_______________      Figure 2. Free -Trade Normalization  
 
References  
 Cerdeiro, D. A. and Nam , R.J.  2018. "A Multidimensional Approach to Trade Policy Indicators, " IMF 
Working Paper 18/32.  
 International Monetary Fund (IMF). 2010. "Reference Note on Trade Policy, Preferential Trade 
Agreements, and WTO Consistency, " September 2010, Washington, DC.  
 International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Trade Organization (WTO), World Bank (WB). 2017. "Makin g 
Trade an Engine of Growth for All - The Case for Trade and for Policies to Facilitate Adjustment", March 2017, 
Frankfurt, Germany.  
Source:  IMF. 
1\ Import (export) coverage ratio, except for the case of FDI (number of measures).(0 = least open country in G20; 1 = most open country in G20)
Notes : The indicators reflect no judgment as to WTO compliance of underlying measures, nor whether certain measures (such as trade defense) are an appropriate response to the actions of other countries. The "ease of 
starting a business" indicator is based on perceptions as part of an established IFC survey process. 
Sources : Tariff data are from the WTO, World Tariff Profiles;  the import licensing measure is based on UNCTAD TRAINS and COMTRADE data; the average trade facilitation performance, agricultural support measure, Services 
Trade Restrictiveness Index (STRI), and FDI Restrictiveness Index are from the OECD; WB STRI is from the World Bank; the post-GFC indicators are from Global Trade Alert.-0.20.00.20.40.60.81.0Non-automatic licensing
[2010-2016]
OECD average trade facilitation
performance [2017]
Agricultural support: producer
support equivalent (OECD)
[2015-2016]
OECD Services Trade
Restrictiveness Index [2017]
WB STRI for services exports
under commercial presence
[2008-2011]OECD FDI Regulatory
Restrictiveness Index [2016]WB-IFC ease of starting a foreign
business [2008-2011]Average applied MFN tariff
[2015-2016][year of data in square brackets]
G20 Average G20 AE Average G20 EM AverageGoods
Services
FDI
-0.20.00.20.40.60.81.0Import duties and taxation
Non-tariff import
restrictions
Trade defense
Export restrictionsLocalization requirements# of FDI measuresTrade Restrictive Measures Adopted since 2008 1 \
measures in effect as of end -January 2018
G20 Average G20 AE Average G20 EM Average-
Overall Trade and Investment Policy Stance
Non-automatic licensing      [2010-2016]
OECD average trade facilitation performance [2017]
Agricultural support: producer support equivalent (OECD)      [2015-2016]
Average applied MFN tariff [2015-2016]
OECD Services Trade Restrictiveness Index [2017]
WB STRI for services exports under commercial presence [2008-2011]
OECD FDI Regulatory Restrictiveness Index [2016]
WB-IFC ease of starting a foreign business [2008-2011]
Post-GFC Trade Restrictiveness Measures
Non-tariff import restrictions
Trade defense
Export restrictions-0.20.00.20.40.60.81.0Non-automatic licensing
[2010-2016]
OECD average trade facilitation
performance [2017]
Agricultural support: producer
support equivalent (OECD)
[2015-2016]
OECD Services Trade
Restrictiveness Index [2017]
WB STRI for services exports
under commercial presence
[2008-2011]OECD FDI Regulatory
Restrictiveness Index [2016]WB-IFC ease of starting a foreign
business [2008-2011]Average applied MFN tariff
[2015-2016]Alternative normalization: G20 most closed=0; Free trade=1
G20 Average G20 AE Average G20 EM AverageGoods
Services
FDIWT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  4  POLICY DEVELOPMENT I N TRADE IN SERVICES  
4.1.  Several new measures affecting trade in services were introduced by WTO Members and 
Observers during the period covered by this Report. The large majority of these measures are 
either horizontal in nature and affect the supply of services through commercia l presence (1 8 
entries) or the movement of natural persons (14) across a broad range of sectors, or relate to 
financial services (14) and telecommunication, ICT and audiovisual services (18). Other sectors 
concerned are transport, distribution, education and professional services. An important number of 
measures appear to be trade restrictive, even though the majority are trade facilitating. Annex 4 
provides additional information on all these measures, which concern 40 WTO Members and two 
Observers.  
Measu res affecting supply through commercial presence  
 
4.2.  Various governments introduced changes to their investment policy that affect the supply 
through commercial presence (mode 3) across various sectors.  Most of these new measures eased 
ownership or other limi ts on foreign investment.  For example, the Government of Zimbabwe  
removed the requirement that at least 51% of all businesses be owned by indigenous 
Zimbabweans.  The requirement is only maintained for companies involved in the diamond and 
platinum extracti ve industries. Certain other sectors that were reserved for indigenous 
Zimbabweans are now reserved for Zimbabwean citizens.  
4.3.  India modified its FDI policy and allowed FDI in single brand retailing up to 100% under the 
automatic route.  Previously, FDI above  49% required government approval.  Further, foreign 
airlines are allowed to invest up to 49% in Air India under the approval route, subject to certain 
conditions.  Lao PDR  abolished the general requirement that foreign investors establishing a 
company inves t a minimum of US$120 ,000, while i n the United Arab Emirates , amendments to the 
Commercial Companies Law give the Government the power to relax the requirement that at least 
51% of shares in limited liability companies be held by nationals of the United Ar ab Emirates.   
4.4.  Myanmar  allowed companies that have up to 35% of their shares held by foreign nationals to 
be considered domestic companies under the law, thereby permitting foreign investors to 
participate in business activities that were previously limited  to wholly domestically -owned 
companies.  In the Philippines , the President signed an Order directing the National Economic and 
Development Authority to take immediate steps to lift or ease existing restrictions on foreign 
participation in a series of secto rs. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 's General Investment  Authority 
extended the duration of foreign investment licen ces to five years, up from one year.  
4.5.  China  took measures to facilitate implementation of reforms in the country's free trade zones.  
Among the changes, wholly foreign -owned enterprises are allowed to operate entertainment 
venues, joint foreign -Chinese travel agencies may provide services for certain travel abroad, and 
foreign investors are permitted to establish wholly foreign -owned enterprises t o undertake 
international shipping, international ship management and international maritime cargo handling 
businesses.   
4.6.  In addition, a number of governments took steps to streamline procedures or otherwise 
facilitate investment in services and other secto rs. These include Angola , Argentina , Botswana , and 
Thailand . For example, Botswana established a new "One Stop Service Centre" aiming to facilitate 
investment by minimizing inconveniences and impediments, and improving the ease of doing 
business.  
4.7.  Other mea sures adopted during the period reviewed were more restrictive.  For example, in 
Tanzania , a new measure affecting trade through both modes 1 and 3 impose s preferences for 
local services and suppliers.  Among other things, the regulations require a non -indigenous 
Tanzanian company wishing to provide services in the mining industry to incorporate a joint 
venture company in which a local company holds equity participation of at least 20%.  The 
regulations also require risks relating to mining activities to be in sured through an indigenous 
brokerage company and, where applicable, an indigenous reinsurance broker.  Companies engaged 
in mining activities can only retain the services of a Tanzanian legal practitioner or a legal firm 
whose principal office is located i n Tanzania.  In a similar fashion, the regulations require 
maintenance of a bank account with an indigenous Tanzanian bank and t he conduct of financial WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  transactions with banks in the country.1 In Italy, a new measure extends the Government's 
"golden powers", which allow blocking and imposing conditions on takeovers by non -EU companies 
in high technology sectors in cases of threats to national security and public order.  Sectors 
concerned now include critical or sensitive infrastruct ure such as storage and management of data, 
as well as critical technology, including artificial intelligence.  
Communication services  
4.8.  Several Members adopted new measures in relation to the communication sector.  The 
Government of the Russian Federation  introduced new rules for owners of electronic messenger 
services.  Owners have to register with the national regulator and are required to maintain certain 
information on local servers.  In China , the use of unlicensed virtual private networks (VPNs) is 
banned as of 1 April 2018, pursuant to the Circular on Cleaning Up and Regulating the Internet 
Access Service Market . The Circular requires all VPN providers to be licensed by the Ministry of 
Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), and mandates pre -approval f or cross -border business 
operations intending to set up their own or leasing private leased circuits (PLCs), including VPNs.  If 
approved, PLCs can only be used to handle internal official business and not to connect onshore 
and offshore data centres or bus iness platforms to carry out telecom business operations.  
4.9.  Benin  entered the free mobile roaming zone established by  countries in West Africa 
(Cote  d'Ivoire, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, Sierra Leone, Senegal and Togo).  Travellers in the 
region benefit from  outgoing calls billed at local rates, plus free incoming calls (currently capped at 
300 incoming minutes/month).  In Chile, the parliament approved a bill establishing an obligation 
for providers of fixed and mobile Internet services to provide guaranteed minimum Internet access 
speed.  The European Union 's new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) entered into force on 
25 May 2018, strengthening the rights of data subjects and imposing new requirements on 
organizations that process personal data.  Guyana  established the National Telecommunications 
Agency, a new independent regulatory body for telecoms, while Niger  abolished its tax on 
incoming international traffic.  Togo set new minimum levels of service under the universal service 
scheme.  The decree updates the scope of universal service to, most notably, include Internet 
access and set minimum Internet bandwidth requirements.  In the United States , the Federal 
Communications Commission repealed net neutrality rules previously put into place.   
4.10.   A number  of policy changes during the period under review relate to audiovisual services.  
The Government of Italy adopted new measures regulating the audiovisual sector, including 
increased quotas for Italian and EU content.  The overall quota for the broadcasting of EU works 
will increase from 50% to 53% in 2019, to 56% in 2020, and to 60% in 2021.  For public 
broadcasters, at least half of that quota has to be used for Italian works, and at least one third in 
the case of private broadcasters.  In the European Union , agreement was reached between the 
European Commission, Parliament and Council on the main elements of revised audiovisual rules 
that will apply to broadcasters, video -on-demand and video -sharing platforms.  The revisions 
include requirements that on -demand  catalogues contain at least a 30% share of European 
content.   
4.11.   In Turkey , a new measure requires media service suppliers to obtain a broadcasting licence 
and platform operators to receive an authorization from Turkey's Radio and Television Supreme 
Council in order to provide radio, television and on -demand broadcasting services on the Internet.  
Lack of a valid licence can result in the removal of the content or blocking of access.  For its part, 
the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia  approved licensing regulations for cinemas, lifting the long -standing 
prohibition on this activity.  
Financial services  
4.12.   Various policy changes took place during the review period in the financial services sector. 
For instance, China  lifted some limits on the operation of foreign -owned non -banking payment 
institutions. Foreign suppliers wishing to provide electronic payment services for domestic 
transactions and cross -border transactions must obtain a payment service licence and establish 
foreign -invested enterprises within China's territory.  The foreign -invested payment institution shall 
                                                
1 Indigenous companies are defined as those with at least 51% of equity owned by Tanzanian citizens, 
and at least 80% of executive and senior management positions and 100% of othe r positions held by 
Tanzanian citizens.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  be capable of independently completing the payment business within the territory of China. The 
storage, processing and analysis of personal information and financial information collected and 
generated by fore ign investment payment agencies in China must be conducted within the 
territory.  In order for the information to be transferred overseas, the supplier must comply with 
the laws and regulations of the relevant regulatory authorities, fulfil corresponding in formation 
confidentiality obligations, and obtain the consent of the personal information subject.  
4.13.   China also removed a number of impediments to the operation of foreign -owned banks in its 
territory, for example allowing locally incorporated foreign -invest ed banks to establish or invest in 
regulated banking financial institutions, and removing approval requirements and replacing them 
with reporting requirements for certain services provided by foreign -invested banks.  
4.14.   In India, the Reserve Bank issued a Dir ective requiring all payment system operators to 
store data within the country.  Operators are given a maximum of six months to comply with the 
requirement and to submit an audit report certifying compliance.  In addition, the Reserve Bank 
announced that sub -targets for lending to small and marginal farmers and micro enterprises will 
be applied to foreign banks of 20 branches or above.  For example, the sub -target of 8 % of 
Adjusted Net Bank Credit or Credit Equivalent Amount of Off -Balance Sheet Exposure, whic hever is 
higher, will apply for lending to small and marginal farmers.   
4.15.   Indonesia  adopted a measure requiring domestic retail debit and credit transactions to be 
processed through switching institutions located in Indonesia and licensed by the Bank of 
Indonesia.  The measure also imposed a 20% foreign equity cap on firms that wish to ob tain 
switching licenses to participate in the National Payment Gateway (NPG).  Foreign firms that wish 
to process transactions through the NPG must form partnership agreements with licensed NPG 
switch institutions and agree to transfer technology as part of  these agreements.  Indonesia also 
adopted a new measure requiring that insurance services for the maritime transport of exports of 
coal and crude palm oil, and imports of rice can only be supplied by national companies.  
4.16.   In South Africa , the new Insurance A ct introduced regulations on activities of foreign -based 
insurers.  It prohibits such insurers and reinsurers from soliciting business in South Africa on a 
cross-border basis, except where foreign reinsurers conduct business through a branch established 
in South Africa.   
Other services sectors  
4.17.   A more limited number of policy changes over the review period touched on services sectors 
not mentioned above.  As regards distribution services, Viet Nam  eased regulations in relation to 
the activities of foreign -invested enterprises engaged in trade in goods and related activities, 
Myanmar  allowed joint ventures between foreign and domestic companies for the retail and 
wholesale trade of agricultural machinery, and Iraq, an Observer, introduced a law limiting the 
importation of goods for resale to registered commercial agents, which can only be Iraqi nationals 
or companies wholly -owned by Iraqi nationals.   
4.18.   With respect to education services, the President of Indonesia  instructed his Cabinet to 
allow 100% foreign owners hip in universities, and to permit foreign institutions to open campuses 
in the country.  Myanmar  allowed full foreign capital participation in private education institutions.   
4.19.   Regarding transport services, Indonesia  adopted a new measure requiring that Ind onesian -
flagged vessels be used for exports of coal and crude palm oil, and for imports of rice.  Viet Nam  
issued new regulations for logistics services that eliminate the requirement that foreign investors 
establish through joint -ventures with local enterp rises.   
Services supplied through the movement of natural persons  
4.20.   Various Members adopted measures affecting the supply of services through the movement 
of natural persons.  In Nigeria , a new executive order prohibits the Ministry of Interior from giving 
visas to foreign workers whose skills are readily available in the country.  Oman  banned the 
recruitment of foreign workers by private companies for a range of occupations across various 
sectors, such as information and technology, insurance, media, aviation,  engineering, and medical WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  services.  In the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia , a prohibition on foreign workers was introduced in 12 
additional sectors.  
4.21.   A number of the new policies adopted appear to facilitate the supply of services through the 
movement of natural persons.  For example, Colombia 's new Immigration Law replaces the 
previous 21 visa categories with three types of visas, namely visitor visas, migrant visas and 
resident visas.  As part of the reorganization , the duration of stay for short -term technical vi sitors 
has been increased from 180 days to up to two years.  Moreover, immigration authorities are now 
required to adjudicate a complete visa application within five business days of submission.  In 
Brazil , the new Migration Law simplified procedures for the  entry and residence of foreigners, and 
reorganized  the visa system into the following categories: visitor visas, temporary visas, and 
official, diplomatic and courtesy visas.  
4.22.   Chile launched a pilot programme for a new streamlined visa application process,  called 
Tech Visa, which allows certain companies to hire specialized  professional and technical personnel 
not available in the country for a period of up to two years.  In Chinese Taipei , the term of work 
permits for foreign special professionals was exten ded from three  to five years, and a new visa 
category, called Employment Gold Card, enables foreign special professionals to obtain work 
permit s, residence visa s, residency permit s and re -entry permit s in a single card and with a single 
online application process.  Thailand  created a new SMART visa programme to attract qualified 
foreigners that are experts, senior executives, investors and start -up entrepreneurs.  This new 
programme provides for the possibility of multiple entries and the option to work durin g the 
validity of the visa without needing to obtain a separate work permit.  
4.23.   For its part, Switzerland  has increased the yearly ceilings for work permits for highly 
qualified workers from non -EU/EFTA States by 500 in 2018, reaching a total of 8,000.  4,500 work 
permits are allocated for short stays (L permits), and 3,500 for long stays (B permits).  Further, a 
new measure in Switzerland requires employers hiring foreign workers to undertake a labour 
market test for certain occupations where the rate of unempl oyment is above 8%.  This threshold 
will be lowered to 5% on 1 January 2020.  In Australia , the Temporary Work (Skilled) Visa 
(subclass 457) was replaced with the new Temporary Skill Shortage Visa on 18 March 2018.  
4.24.   The following box, on measures restricting services trade, has been contributed by the 
OECD.  
Box 4.1 Increase in measures restricting services trade between 2014 and 2017  
Services markets are subject to complex and ever -changing regulatory environments where new measures can 
lower trade barriers or bring about more stringent conditions for foreign suppliers. The OECD Services Trade 
Restrictiveness Index (STRI) collects information annually on the nature and extent of regulatory barriers 
affecting service s trade in 44 countries across 22 services sectors. The periodical review of trade -relevant laws 
and regulations provides new insights into key changes and emerging global trends on services trade 
regulations.  
Results from the 2017 STRI update show an incr easingly tighter global regulatory environment for services 
trade in some sectors (Figure 1). Overall, the net effect of services' trade-restricting measures on the STRI 
scores has bee n larger than that of the trade -liberali zing measures between 2014 and 2 017. These results are 
largely due to restrictive economy -wide policy changes being implemented in a number of countries. This was 
particularly the case for measures affecting services supplied through the temporary movement of natural 
persons (Mode 4), du e to more stringent entry conditions being applied to persons seeking to provide services 
on a temporary basis, such as intra -corporate transferees, or contractual or independent services suppliers. In 
addition, some countries have tightened the screening process for foreign investments and others have 
introduced economy -wide limitations on cross -border data flows.  
Recent OECD analysis reveals that the costs of services trade restrictions are high, creating significant 
obstacles for businesses both in services and manufacturing industries. For instance, in certain transport and 
logistics segments, average trade restrictions can raise prices by 20% for business users of services inputs.  
 
 WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 86 - 
 
  Figure  1. Impact of policy changes on the STRI  results, 2014 -2017  
Cumulative changes in results across countries  
 
_______________  
Source: STRI database  (http://oe.cd/stri -db) 
Note: Regulatory changes have been recorded in the STRI database until October 2017.  
For more information:  
OECD (2018), OECD Services Trade Restrictiveness Index: Policy Trends Up To 2018 , OECD Publishing, Paris.  
http://www.oecd.org/trade/services -trade/STRI -Policy -trends -up-to-2018.pdf .  
 
Source:  OECD.-1.2-1-0.8-0.6-0.4-0.200.20.40.60.81
Motion pictures
Telecommunications
Sound recording
Computer services
Broadcasting
Freight forwarding
Cargo-handling
Courier services
Custom brokerage
Storage and warehousing
Rail freight transport
Air transport
Distribution services
Road freight transport
Maritime transport
Insurance
Commercial banking
Accounting services
Legal services
Engineering services
Construction
Architecture services
Digital network Transport and distribution supply chain Market bridging and
supporting servicesPhysical
infrastructure
servicesCumulative trade liberalisations (2014 to 2017) Cumulative trade restrictions (2014 to 2017)WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 87 - 
 
  5  POLICY DEVELOPMENTS IN TRADE IN INTELLEC TUAL PROPERTY  
5.1.  During the period under review, Congo, Gabon, Madagascar and Côte d'Ivoire deposited 
instruments of acceptance of the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement. The  Protocol gave 
effect to the 2005 Decision1 to amend the TRIPS Agreement in order to address public health 
needs of countries with limited or no domestic pharmaceutical production capacity by creating an 
additional legal pa thway for production and export of generic medicines. The Amended TRIPS 
Agreement entered into force in January 2017 and applies to all Members which have accepted the 
Protocol.2 A waiver, agreed in 2003,3 continues to apply to the 39 Members yet to accept  the 
Protocol.  
5.2.  On the bilateral and regional fronts, Members continued to implement and negotiate a 
network of trade agreements that contain substantive intellectual property (IP) provisions. 
Currently, 219 RTAs in force notified to the WTO contain specifi c IP provisions. Over time, 
conclusion and implementation of RTAs has further developed the interconnection between IP and 
trade in goods and services, and the links of the IP system to other normative areas, such as 
investment, e -commerce, and competition . Notable provisions on IP standards and work 
programmes were contained in several agreements signed during the reporting period, including 
the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership4 and the African 
Continental Free Trade Ar ea.5 Significant IP issues were reportedly under consideration during the 
re-negotiations of the NAFTA6 and the Association Agreement between Mexico and the European 
Union7, as well as in the continuing negotiations in the framework of the Pacific Alliance8 and 
between MERCOSUR and the European Union.9 
5.3.  At the national level, newly notified measures demonstrated the complex interaction between 
IP and other areas of trade and public policy generally, including on public health and 
procurement. The Republic of  Moldova enacted legislation to implement its commitments under its 
Association Agreement with the European Union; Mauritius amended its Customs Act to include IP 
enforcement provisions; Panama issued the regulation to implement the amended Industrial 
Property Law; Turkey amended its Copyright Law to take account of digital developments, improve 
transparency of collecting societies and address problems related to licensing;10 and Malaysia 
announced the issuance of  a compulsory license for a hepatitis  C treat ment in September 2017.11 
At the request of some Members during its Trade Policy Review in February 2018, Malaysia 
provided further details about the legal basis for this measure.12  
5.4.  The relation between IP and trade continued to develop and diversify, as Members developed 
their own national strategies to streamline IP into the economy (Box 5.1) , and continued to 
modernize and fine -tune their IP legislation (Box 5.2).  
                                                
1 Document WT/L/641.  
2 Viewed at: https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/trips_e/amendment_e.htm . 
3 Document WT/L/540 and its Corr.1.  
4 Viewed at  https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/trade/free -trade -agreements/free -trade-agreements -
concluded -but-not-in-force/cptpp/cptpp -overview/ . 
5 Viewed at   https://au.int/en/pressreleases/20180321/au -member -countries -create -history -massivel y-
signing -afcfta -agreement -kigali; and Articles 6 to 8 as viewed at   
https://www.tralac.org/documents/r esources/african -union/1870 -agreement -establishing -the-afcfta -kigali-
draft-text-march -2018-1/file.html .  
6 Viewed at  https://ustr .gov/about -us/policy -offices/press -office/press -releases/2017/november/ustr -
releases -updated -nafta.  
7 Viewed at  http://ec.europa.eu/trade/policy/in -focus/eu -mexico -trade-agreement/ .  
8 Viewed at  https://alianzapacifico.net/inicio -en-chile-la-tercera -ronda -de-negociaciones -con-los-
candidatos -a-estado -asociado/ .  
9 Viewed at  http://www.sice.oas.org/TPD/MER_EU/MER_EU_s.asp .  
10 Submissions by the Republic of Moldova, Mauritius, Panama and Turkey for the WTO Trade Monitoring 
Report.  
11 Viewed at  https://kpkesihata n.com/2017/09/20/press -statement -minister -of-health -20th-september -
2017-implementation -of-the-rights -of-government -for-sofosbuvir -tablet -to-increase -access -for-hepatitis -c-
treatment -in-malaysia/ .  
12 Document WT/TPR/M/366/Add.1 . WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 88 - 
 
  Box 5.1 National IP strategies  
Canadaa 
In April 2018, Canada launched its IP Strategy to help  entrepreneurs better understand and protect  IP; and 
improve access to shared  IP. Its objective is improving IP legislation, literacy and advice. It will also provide 
tools to support businesses to pursue their own IP strategies.  
 
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom ofb 
As part of the National Transformation Program 2020, the Saudi Intellectual Property Authority  was established 
in 2017. Its objective is to develop a national IP strategy and to follow up its implementat ion.  
 
Moldova, Republic ofc 
In April 2018, the Republic of Moldova approved the Action Plan for the years 2018 -2020 to implement the 
National IP Strategy. This would be the final stage of the implementation of the Strategy and, hence, the plan 
sets out co ncrete actions and applicable deadlines , delegates responsibility , provides cost estimates , identifies 
financing sources , and indicates expected results and the monitoring indicators.  
 
----------------------------  
a Viewed at http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/108.nsf/eng/h_00000.html .  
b Submission by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report . 
c Submission by the Republic of Moldova for the WTO  Trade Monitoring Report . 
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
Box 5.2 Domestic legislation   
Chinaa 
China's Anti -unfair Competition Law entered into force in January 2018. Supporting regulations related to IP 
rights will be formulated, inter alia , on market confusion, infringement of business secrets and Internet unfair 
competition. Special law enforceme nt actions and coordinated deployment and investigation will be undertaken 
to strengthen IP enforcement and fair competition.  
 
Mexicob 
In March 2018, Mexico amended its Industrial Property Law by introducing a new specific regime for 
geographical indicatio ns, in addition to the one of denominations of origin; strengthening the right of inventors 
and designers to be named in patent/design application s; reducing the period of protection for industrial 
designs from 15 non -renewable years to 5 renewable years a nd for a maximum of 25 years; regulating the 
priority of inter -related patent applications; establishing a non -extendable period of one month for trademark 
opposition; and increasing penal sanctions for trademark counterfeiting.  
 
Seychellesc 
 
In February 2 018, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the establishment of the Seychelles centralized IP Office, 
which includes the assignment of all operational matters to the Office of Registration and of policy matters to 
the Ministry of Finance, Trade and Economic Pl anning.   
 
Singapored 
 
In October 2017, Singapore amended its Patent and Registered Designs Laws to fine -tune them and adapt 
them to technological advances, e.g. protection of designs of non -physical products such as virtual keyboards.  
 
Thailande 
 
Since November 2017, Thailand has implemented its Accession to the Protocol Relating to the Madrid 
Agreement Concerning the International Registration of Marks.  
 
Turkeyf 
 
In November 2017, Turley amended its Copyright Law to take account of digital develop ments, improve 
transparency of collecting societies , and address problems related to licensing.  
 
 
----------------------------  
a Submission by China for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
b Submission by Mexico for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report and documen t IP/N/1/MEX/16.  
c Submission by Seychelles for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
d Submission by Singapore for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
e Submission by Thailand for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
f Submission by Turkey for the WTO Trade Monitoring Report.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 89 - 
 
  TRIPS Council  
5.5.  During the review period, the TRIPS Council met on two occasions , i.e.  from 19 to 
20 October  2017 and on 27  February 2018.  
5.6.  At the October 2017 meeting, India posed questions13 to the European Union regarding the 
Commission Notice on the Customs Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) concerning 
goods brought into the Customs Authority of the Union without being released for free circulation 
including goods in transit .14 The objective of the Commission Notice is to update the EC Guidelines 
concerning the enforcement by E uropean Union customs authorities of IPRs with regard to goods, 
in particular medicines, in transit through the European Union by reflecting EC Regulati on 
No .1383/2003 and the European Union Trademark Package. In response, the European Union 
indicated that the Regulations were compliant with the TRIPS Agreement, particularly its 
enforcement provisions. It also indicated its willingness to engage in bilat eral talks with Members 
concerned.15 
5.7.  In October 2017, Members also adopted the annual report on the functioning of the special 
compulsory licensing system under the TRIPS Amendment , and agreed on a two -year extension of 
the period for acceptance of the Prot ocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement, until 31 December 
2019. After several years of consideration, the TRIPS Council reached consensus on granting 
observer status to the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and the African 
Intellectual  Property Organization (OAPI).  
5.8.  The discussion on non -violation and situation complaints under the TRIPS Agreement 
continued in the run -up to MC11. In December 2017, ministers agreed to extend the moratorium 
until MC12 . At the February 2018 meeting, Members  reflected on how to move forward on the 
examination of the scope and modalities for non -violation and situation complaints.  
5.9.  During the two meetings, Members continued to share their national experiences and 
engaged in constructive policy discussions on tw o ad hoc  agenda items: (i) IP and innovation; and 
(ii) IP and the public interest. Exchanges revolved around inclusive innovation and trade of 
MSMES ,16 the societal value of IP in the new economy ,17 compulsory licences ,18 and regulatory 
review exemption.19 
5.10.   Effective implementation of the TRIPS Agreement provisions on transparency remained a 
central responsibility of the TRIPS Council. During the review period, 10 Members20 notified 
legislative measures under Article 63.2. Several Members gave accounts of the rationale for these 
measures, which provided insights into recent legislative changes in the areas, such as copyright 
and related rights , trademarks , geographical indications , industrial designs , patents , plant variety 
protection and enforcement. Finland a nd Mauritius also submitted their checklist of issues on 
enforcement , and Finland and Macao, China, submitted their contact points for technical 
cooperation under TRIPS.  
5.11.   In February 2018, Members also discussed the proposal presented by the LDCs' 
Consulta tive Group on how to improve transfer of technology.21 
                                                
13 These questions were a follow -up to the presentation provided by the European Union, in June 2016, 
on the main features of its Trademark Package (Directive 2015/2436 and Regulation 2015/2424).  
14 Document IP/C/W/636.  
15 In 2009, the TRIPS Council had intensive discussions on the d etention , on patent infringement 
grounds , of generic drugs originating in India, transiting through ports in EU member States to third country 
destinations, pursuant to EC Regulation No . 1383/2003. India and Brazil alleged that the measures at issue 
were, in several respects, inconsistent as such and as applied, with the obligations of the E uropean Union 
under the TRIPS Agreement, in particular Articles 28, 31, 41 and 42. In May 2010, India and Brazil requested 
consultations with the E uropean Union on this issue (DS408 and DS409, respectively), which are still pending.  
16 Document IP/C/W/635 and IP/C/W/638 . 
17 Document IP/C/W/641 . 
18 Document IP/C/W/630 . 
19 Document IP/C/W/639 . 
20 United States; Mexico; Australia; Norway; Ukraine; Kyrgyz Republic; Finland; Mauri tius; Macao, 
China; and China.  
21 Document IP/C/W/640 . WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 90 - 
 
  TRIPS -related discussions in Trade Policy Reviews  
5.12.   During the review period, the Trade Policy Reviews of 15 Members22 took place. 
These  Reviews included discussions on a wide range of IP issues with a bearing on trade policy, 
including: exhaustion regimes and parallel imports; copyright registration, exceptions and 
limitations; folklore protection; collective management organizations; trademark pre -registration; 
well-known marks; geographical indications;  patent exceptions and certificates of supplementary 
protection; patentability criteria; protection of undisclosed information and test data; registration 
of industrial designs; enforcement; ex officio  authority for boarder measures; application of border 
measures to goods in transit; acceptance of the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement; absence 
of notifications to the TRIPS Council ;23 regional IP regimes ;24 accession to and ratification of WIPO 
treaties and the UPOV Convention; reduction of red -tape in th e administration of IP rights; 
operation of an "IPR marketplace" and IP monetization roadmap ;25 and IP education and outreach 
programmes.  
e-TRIPS  
5.13.   e-TRIPS is an online information submission and management system designed to facilitate 
the processing of and access to TRIPS -related information. As a substantial advancement in the 
development of e -TRIPS, the Secretariat is now using the e -TRIPS system to process notifications 
and other types of TRIPS documents, internally to test and fine -tune the system during  this initial 
phase of Secretariat -use only, with the aim of making it publicly available in the near future.  
                                                
22 Members of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, 
Guinea -Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo), the Plurinational State of Bolivia, Cambodia, The Gambia, 
Malaysia, Egypt, Philippines and Montenegro.   
23 Question posed by the European Union to Guinea -Bissau, document RD/TPR/850 . 
24 Namely the Andean Community and the  OAPI. 
25 Question posed by Hong Kong, China,  to Malaysia, document RD/TPR/887/Rev.2 . WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 91 - 
 
  ANNEX 1  - MEASURES FACILITATIN G TRADE1 
(MID-OCTOBER 2017 TO MID -MAY 2018)  
Confirmed information2 
Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Argentina  
Trade facilitation measure for importers 
through the implementation of the "Authorized 
Economic Operator" scheme  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and 
Administración Federal de 
Ingresos Públicos - 
Resolución General No. 
4150-E (26 October 2017)  Effective 28 October 2017  
Trade facilitation measure for exporters 
through the implementation of the "Authorized 
Economic Operator" scheme  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and 
Administración Federal de 
Ingresos Públicos - 
Resolución General No. 
4150-E (26 October 2017)  Effective 28 October 2017  
Elimination of the requirement for exporters to 
settle their foreign currency originating from 
export operations (all sectors)   Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina  to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Decreto 
No. 893/2017 - Entidades 
Financieras  
(1 November 2017)  Effective 2 November 2017  
Elimination of the sworn declaration 
requirement ( Declaración Jurada de Ventas al 
Exterior "DJVE" ) for the export of certain 
products (with small export volume) (e.g. rye; 
oats; millet; worked oat grains; certain oil 
seeds ( cartamo ); linseed oils and its fractions; 
oil-cake and other solid residues, whether or 
not ground or in the form of pellets, resulting 
from the extraction of soyabea n oil ( tortas de 
soja y expellers de soja ); certain oil -cake and 
other solid residues, resulting from the 
extraction of vegetable fats or oils ( lino, nabo y 
colza) (NCM 1002; 1004; 1008; 1104; 1207; 
1515; 2304; 2306)  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to th e WTO 
(28 May 2018) and 
Resolución No. 364 -E/2017 - 
Ministerio de Agroindustria 
(16 November 2017)  Effective 23 November 2017  
Elimination of "reference values" for exports of 
all goods  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and 
Administración Federal de 
Ingresos Públicos - 
Resolución General No. 
4161-E (23 November 2017)  Effective 28 November 2017  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 
certain machinery, equipment and goods 
(NCM  Chapters 39; 70; 72; 73; 74; 84; 85; 
90) destined for the production of renewable 
energy ( Régimen de Fomento de las Energías 
Renovables )  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Decreto 
No. 814/2017  
(10 October 2017)  Effective 1 January 2018 for 
60 months  
                                                
1 The incl usion of any measure in this Annex implies no judgement by the WTO Secretariat on whether 
or not such 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 referred to with the provisions of any 
WTO agreement.  
2 This Section includes information which has either been provided by the Member concerned or has 
been confirmed at the request of the Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 92 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Elimination of the Register Export Operation 
(Registro de Operaciones de Exportación - 
ROE-ROJO ) for the export of certain live bovine 
animals, bovine meat and edible offal, certain 
products of animal origin, certain prepared or 
preserved meats, extracts and juices of meat, 
soups and broths, gelatine of animal origin  
(NCM 0102; 0201; 0202; 0206; 0210; 0504; 
1602; 1 603; 2104; 3503) requiring the 
recording of export operations (established in 
2006)  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and 
Resolución Conjunta General 
No. 4170 -E/2017 - 
Ministerio de Agroindustria y 
Administración Federal de 
Ingreso s Públicos  
(14 December 2017)  Effective 20 December 2017  
Temporary reduction of import tariffs (to 2%) 
on static converters and (to 10%) on electrical 
motor vehicles for the transport of 10 or more 
persons (NCM 8504.40.10; 8702.40.90). 
Further reduction of the Mercosur Common 
Tariff depends on multiple variables, including 
local content thresholds  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Decreto 
No. 51/2018  
(16 January 2018)  Effective 20 January 2018  
Inclusion in the "Authorized Economic 
Operator" scheme of "in -factory customs 
regime" users ( Plan Piloto Operador Económico 
Autorizado para Usuario del Régimen de 
Aduana en Factoría (RAF )) Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and 
Resolución General AFIP No. 
4197-E (29 January 2018)  Effective 31 January 2018  
Australia  
Elimination of the "special duty" of $A 12,000 
on imports of used passenger vehicles (the 
previous duty was 5% plus $A 12,000 and is 
now 5%)  Permanent Delegation of 
Australia to the WTO  
(25 May 2018)  Effective 1 January 2018  
Brazil  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 
certain vaccines for human medicine, under an 
import quota of 11 million doses  
(NCM 3002.20.27; 3002.20.29) (effective  
1 December 2017 to 30 November 2018); and 
on certain  vaccines for human medicine 
(hepatite A ), under an import quota of 
2,250,000 doses (NCM 3002.20.29) (effective 
2 April 2018 to 1 October 2018). Temporary 
reduction (to 2%) of import tariffs on certain 
polyester s, under an import quota of 
850 tonnes (NCM 3 907.99.99) (effective  
18 October 2017 to 17 January 2018); and on 
jute (NCM 5303.10.10), under an import quota 
of 7,000 tonnes (effective  
18 October 2017)  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018), Camex 
Resolution Nos. 84/2017  
(17 Octobe r 2017) and 
89/2017 (30 November 
2017) and Secex Portaria 
Nos. 40/2017  
(19 October 2017), 42/2017 
and 43/2017  
(1 December 2017)  Effective: see individual dates 
in measure  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 
1,105 capital goods tariff lines (NCM Chapters 
84; 85; 86; 87; 89; 90; 94), and 3 informatics 
and telecommunications goods tariff lines 
(NCM  8517.62.39; 8543.70.99; 9032.89.81), 
through the "ex -out" regime (mechanism 
designed to temporarily reduce import tariffs 
on capital goods and informatic s and 
telecommunications equipment not locally 
produced)  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018), Camex 
Resolution Nos. 80/2017, 
81/2017 (17 October 2017) 
and 90/2017  
(13 December 2017)  Effective until 30 June 2019  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 93 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Decrease of import tariffs (from 14% to 2%) 
on sensitized photographic plates and film in 
the flat for x -ray; and on certain polyesters, 
certain organic surface -active agents, and 
certain acrylic polymers in primary forms; 
(from 16% to 2%) on plastics of poly(vinyl 
butyral),  on electrical fixed capacitors 
(i.e. single layer ceramic dielectric, multilayer 
ceramic dielectric, dielectric of paper or 
plastics, variable or adjustable (pre -set)), on 
other variable resistors, including rheostats and 
potentiometers, and on other appa ratus for 
protecting electrical circuits, fixed resistors for 
a power handling capacity not exceeding 20 W 
(effective 1 January 2018); and on tantalum, 
multilayer ceramic dielectic and certain 
apparatus for switching or protecting electrical 
circuits (NCM 8532.21.20; 8532.24.20; 
8536.90.60) (effective 2 March 2018); and 
(from 4% to 2%) on certain supported 
catalysts (effective 1 January 2018). 
Elimination of import tariffs (from 6%) on 
transistors, other than photosensitive 
transistors, with a dissipation r ate of less than 
1 W (NCM 3701.10.10; 3907.99.93; 
3907.99.94; 3907.99.95; 3920.91.00; 
3921.90.13; 8532.23.10; 8532.24.10; 
8532.25.10; 8532.29.10; 8532.30.10; 
8533.40.12; 8536.30.10; 8541.21.20; 
3404.90.22; 3815.90.93; 3906.90.48; 
8533.21.20)  Permanent Dele gation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018), Camex 
Resolution Nos. 54/2017  
(5 July 2017) and 95/2017 
(19 December 2017) and 
11/2018 (28 February 2018)  Effective: see individual dates 
in measure  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 94 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Temporary reduction (to 2%) of import tariffs 
on certain poly(ethylene terephthalate) 
(NCM  3907.61.00), under an import quota of 
10,000 tonnes (effective 30 December 2017 to 
29 December 2018); on certain printing ink 
(NCM 3215.19.00), under an import quota of 
600 tonnes  (effective 30 December 2017 to  
29 Decembe r 2018); on non -alloyed nickel 
(catodos ) (NCM 7502.10.10), under an import 
quota of 1,350 tonnes (effective  
4 January 2018 to 3 April 2018); on 
dimethylamine (NCM 2921.11.21), under an 
import quota of 12,000 tonnes (effective  
23 January 2018 to 22 Januar y 2019); on black 
printing ink (NCM 3215.11.00), under an 
import quota of 350 tonnes (effective  
23 January 2018 to 22 January 2019); on 
non-roasted malt (NCM 1107.10.10), under an 
import quota of 156,531 tonnes (effective  
22 December 2017 to 21 December 2018); on 
polycarbonates (NCM 3907.40.90), under an 
import quota of 35,040 tonnes (effective  
1 January 2018 to 31 December 2018); on 
certain compounded rubber, unvulcanized in 
primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip 
(NCM 4005.99.90), under an import q uota of 
1,300 tonnes (effective 2 January 2018 to  
1 July 2018); on certain synthetic filament yarn 
(other than sewing thread), not for retail sale 
(NCM 5402.47.10), under an import quota of 
2,200 tonnes (effective 2 January 2018 to  
1 January 2019); and o n certain boards, 
panels, consoles, desks, cabinets and other 
bases, equipped with two or more apparatus 
under heading HS 8535 or 8536, for electrical 
control or the distribution of electricity, 
including those incorporating instruments or 
apparatus under HS Chapter 90, and numerical 
control apparatus, other than switching 
apparatus under heading HS 8517  
(NCM 8537.20.90), under an import quota of 
31 units (effective 2 January 2018 to  
1 January 2019). Temporary elimination of 
import tariffs on sardines (NC M 0303.53.00), 
under an import quota of 50,000 tonnes 
(effective 22 December 2017 to  
21 June 2018); on p -xylene (NCM 2902.43.00), 
under an import quota of 180,000 tonnes 
(effective 22 December 2017 to  
21 December 2018); and on certain vaccines 
for humans  (dengue ) (NCM 3002.20.29)  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018), Camex 
Resolution Nos. 97/2017  
(20 December 2017), 
98/2017  
(21 December 2017) and 
99/2017 (29 December 
2017), and Secex Portaria 
Nos. 48/2017, 49/2017, 
50/2017,  51/2017  
(22 December 2017)  and 
1/2018 (2 January 2018)  Effective: see individual dates 
in measure  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 95 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Elimination of import tariffs (from 8%) on 
certain medicines consisting of mixed or 
unmixed products for therapeutic or 
prophylactic uses, put up in measured doses 
(including those in the form of transdermal 
administration systems) or in forms or 
packings for retail sale ( dicloridrato de 
daclatasvir and dasatinibe ) (NCM 3004.90.69; 
3004.90.79) (effective 1 February 2018), and 
on certain medicaments ( idursulfase )  
(NCM 3003.90.24; 3004.90.14) (effective  
1 February 2018); (from 14%) on certain parts 
for teleferics (NCM 8431.39.00) (effective  
6 February 2018), and teleferics, chair -lifts, 
ski-draglines, and traction mechanisms for 
funiculars (NCM 8428.60.00) (effective   
7 March 2018); (from 20%) on certain 
fairground amusement parts (NCM 9508.90.90) 
(effective 6 February 2018); and on certain 
industrial robots (NCM 8479.50.00) (effective 
28 February 2018); (from 6%) on diodes, 
other than photosensitive or light emitting  
diodes (NCM 8541.10.22; 8541.10.29) 
(effective 28 February 2018); and on 
unwrought aluminium, non -alloyed 
(NCM  7601.10.00), under an import quota of 
353,000 tonnes (effective until 30 June 2018)  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018), Ca mex 
Resolution Nos. 1/2018  
(15 January 2018), 4/2018 
(5 February 2018), 9/2018 
(28 February 2018),  
11/2018 (28 February 2018) 
and 16/2018  
(7 March 2018)  Effective: see individual dates 
in measure  
Temporary reduction (to 2%) of import tariffs 
on disodium sulphate, under an import quota of 
910,000 tonnes (NCM 2833.11.10) (effective 
31 January 2018 to 30 January 2019); on 
rectangular (including square) aluminium 
plates and sheets of aluminium alloys, under 
an import quota of 2,937 tonnes  
(NCM 7606.12.90) (effective 1 February 2018 
to 31 January 2019); on aluminium foil, rolled 
but not further worked, under an import quota 
of 2,137 tonnes (NCM 7607.11.90) (effective  
1 February 2018 to 31 January 2019) ; on 
viscose rayon staple fibres (NCM 5504.10.00), 
under an import quota of 40,000 tonnes 
(effective 28 March 2018 to 27 March 2019); 
on non alloyed nickel (catodos)  
(NCM 7502.10.10), under an import quota of 
7,200 tonnes; on titanium oxides  
(NCM 2823.00 .10), under an import quota of 
8,000 tonnes; on palm kernel or babassu oil 
and fractions thereof (NCM 1513.29.10), under 
an import quota of 224,785 tonnes; and on 
certain electrical apparatus for switching or 
protecting electrical circuits (NCM 8535.90.00) , 
under an import quota of 500 units (effective 
25 April 2018). Temporary elimination of 
import tariffs on certain pharmaceutical 
products ( cloridrato de duloxetina, clavulanato 
de potássio ) (NCM Chapters 3003.90.89), 
under an import quota of 48 tonnes (ef fective  
3 May 2018, for 12 months)  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018), Camex 
Resolution Nos. 3/2018  
(30 January 2018), 17/2018 
(27 March 2018), 27/2018 
(24 April 2018) and 32/2018 
(2 May 2018), and Secex 
Portaria Nos. 4/2018  
 (31 Ja nuary 2018) and 
15/2018 (28 March 2018)  Effective: see individual dates 
in measure  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 
1,115 capital goods tariff lines, and 97 
informatics and telecommunications goods 
tariff lines (NCM Chapters 84; 85; 89; 9 0), 
through the "ex -out" regime  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018), and Camex 
Resolution Nos. 14/2018 
and 15/2018 (28 February 
2018), 22/2018 and 
23/2018 (27 March 2018), 
and 30/2018 and 31/2018 
(2 May 2018)   Effective until  
31 December 2019 WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 96 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
New legislation streamlining the medical device 
importation process  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and 
Resolucão da Diretoria 
Colegiada - RDC No. 208 - 
Ministério de Saúde -MS, 
Agência Nacional de 
Vigilância Sanitária - 
ANVISA (5 January 2018)  Effective 8 January 2018  
Chile  
New law updating import customs procedures 
and establishing the "Authorized Economic 
Operator" (AEO) scheme (e.g. AEO certification 
requirements, activities liable to be taken into 
consideration for certification, and the 
requirements, conditions, rights and obligations 
of the AEO terms and procedures)  Permanent Delegation of 
Chile to the WTO  
(18 May 2018)  Effective 12 January 2018  
New law updating export customs procedures 
and establishing the "Authorized Economic 
Operator" (AEO) scheme (e.g. AEO certification 
requirements, activities liable to be taken into 
consideration for certification, and the 
requirements, conditions, rights and obligations 
of the AEO terms and procedures)  Permanent Delega tion of 
Chile to the WTO  
(18 May 2018)  Effective 12 January 2018  
China  
Imposition of interim tariffs  resulting in the 
temporary reduction of import tariffs  on certain 
fish and crustaceans, molluscs and other 
aquatic invertebrates (HS Chapter 03); on 
cheese and curd (HS Chapter 04); on certain 
edible fruit and nuts (HS Chapter 08); on 
sausages and similar products  
(HS 1601.00.10; 1601.00.20); on certain 
preparations of cereals, flour, starch or milk 
(HS 1901.10.90; 1902.19.00); on jams  
(HS 2007.10.00); on other food preparations 
(HS 2106.90.50; 2106.90.90); on certain 
beverages, spirits and vinegar (HS 2201.10.10; 
2205.10.00; 2208.20.00; 2208.30.00); on 
medicaments (HS 3004); on certain essential 
oils and resinoids (HS Chapter 33); on certain 
articles of leather (HS Chapter 42); on certain 
articles of apparel and clothing accessories  
(HS Chapters 61 and 62); on blankets and 
travelling rugs (HS 6301.20.00); on certain 
footwear (HS Chapter 64); on certain nuclear 
reactors, boilers, and machinery (HS Chapter 
84); on certain electrical machinery and 
equipment (HS Chapter 85); on baby carri ages 
(HS 8715.00.00); on certain optical, 
photographic, cinematographic, measuring, 
checking, precision medical or surgical 
instruments (HS 9004.90.10; 9021.29.00); on 
certain toys, games and sports requisites  
(HS 9506.11.00; 9506.12.00; 9506.19.00; 
9506. 70.10; 9506.70.20); and on certain 
miscellaneous manufactured articles  
(HS Chapter 96)  Permanent Delegation of 
China to the WTO  
(28 May 2018)  Effective December 2017  
Reduction of import taxes (from 5% to 2%) on 
raw donkey skins (HS 4101.20.20)  Permanen t Delegation of 
China to the WTO  
(28 May 2018)  Effective 1 January 2018  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 97 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Colombia  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on raw 
materials and capital goods not produced 
locally (3,650 tariff lines)  (HS Chapters 03; 25; 
26; 27; 28; 29; 30; 31; 32; 34; 35; 36; 37; 
38; 39; 40; 41; 42; 43; 44; 45; 47; 48; 50; 
51; 52; 53; 54; 55; 56; 58; 59; 60; 63; 65; 
66; 67; 68; 69; 70; 71; 72; 73; 74; 75; 76; 
78; 79; 80; 81; 82; 83; 84; 85; 86; 87; 88; 
89; 90; 91; 92;  94; 96)  Permanent Delegation of 
Colombia to the WTO 
(24 April 2018) and Decreto 
No. 272 Ministerio de 
Comercio, Industria y 
Turismo (13 February 2018)  Effective 13 February 2018  
New law updating customs procedures, 
resulting in improvement of import procedures  Permanent Delegation of 
Colombia to the WTO 
(24 April 2018) and Decreto 
No. 349 Ministerio de 
Hacienda y Crédito Público 
(20 February 2018)  Effective 7 March 2018  
New law updating customs procedures, 
resulting in improvement of export procedures  Permanent Delegation of 
Colombia to the WTO 
(24 April 2018) and Decreto 
No. 349 Ministerio de 
Hacienda y Crédito Público 
(20 February 2018)  Effective 7 March 2018  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 
certain equipment and goods (245 HS tariff 
lines) for the construction of ships, boats and 
floating structures ( Programa de Fomento de la 
Industria de Astilleros ) (HS Chapters 27; 28; 
32; 34; 35; 38; 39; 40; 44; 48; 56; 59; 63; 
68; 69; 70; 72; 73; 74; 75; 76; 79; 80; 81; 
82; 83; 84; 85; 87; 89; 90; 91; 94; 96)  Permanent Delegation of 
Colombia to the WTO 
(24 April 2018) and Decreto 
No. 590 Ministerio de 
Comercio, Industria y 
Turismo (2 April 2018)  Effective 2 April 2018  
Costa Rica  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on rice 
in the husk (paddy or rough) (HS 1006.10.90), 
under an import quota of 42.176 metric tonnes  Permanent Delegation of 
Costa Rica to the WTO  
(20 April 2018)  Effective January 2018 to  
June 2018  
Dominican Republic  
Trade facilitation measures through the 
establishment of the National Trade Facilitation 
Committee and the interlink to the single -
window system ( ventanilla única de comercio 
exterior "VUCE" ) of agencies associated with 
import operations  Permanent Delegation of the 
Dominican Republic to the 
WTO (1 May 2018)  Effective December 2017  
Trade facilitation measures through the 
establishment of the National Trade Facilitation 
Committee and the interlink to the 
single -window system ( ventanilla única de 
comercio exterior "VUCE" ) of agencies 
associated with export oper ations  Permanent Delegation of the 
Dominican Republic to the 
WTO (1 May 2018)  Effective December 2017  
Guatemala  
Further reduction of import tariffs under the 
Expansion of the Information Technology 
Agreement (ITA) (206 tariff lines at 8 -digit 
level in HS  Chapters 32; 35; 37; 39; 49; 68; 
84; 85; 88; 90; 95)  WTO document 
G/MA/W/117/Add.8,  
28 January 2016  Effective 1 January 2018, with 
all covered tariffs to be phased 
out by no later than  
1 July 2024  
India  
Elimination of export duties on electrodes of a 
kind used for furnaces (HS 8545.11.00)  Notification No. 23/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of 
Finance (Department of 
Revenue) (2 February 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  
Elimination of import tariffs on specified p arts 
of cellular mobile phones and other electronic 
goods (e.g. inputs or parts for use in the 
manufacture of chargers or adapters for 
cellular mobile phones (HS 8504.90.90; 
3926.90.99)  Notification No. 22/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of 
Finance (Department of  
Revenue) (2 February 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 98 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Decrease of import tariffs on motor cycles 
(including mopeds) and cycles fitted with an 
auxiliary motor, with or without side cars, and 
side cars, new, which have not been registered 
anywhere prior to importation - (1) as a 
completely knocked down (CKD) kit containing 
all the necessary components, parts or sub -
assemblies for assembling a complete vehicle 
with: (from 30% to 25%) (i) engine, gearbox 
or transmission mechanism in pre -assembled 
form, not mou nted on a body assembly; and 
(from 60% to 50%) (ii) in a form other than 
included in (1) above (HS 8711)  Notification No. 26/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of 
Finance (Department of 
Revenue)  
(12 February 2018)  Effective 12 February 2018  
Decrease of import tariffs (from 10% to 7.5%) 
on bricks, blocks, tiles and other ceramic goods 
of siliceous fossil metals (e.g. kieselguhr, 
tripolite or diatomite) or of similar siliceous 
earths (HS 6901). Elimination of import tariffs 
(from 5%) on solar t empered glass or solar 
tempered (anti -reflective coated) glass for the 
manufacture of solar cells/panels/modules  
(HS Chapter 70)  Notification No. 6/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of 
Finance (Department of 
Revenue) (2 February 2018) 
and Finance Bill 2018  
(14 Ma rch 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  
Elimination of import tariffs on inputs or parts 
for the manufacture of printed circuit board 
assembly (PCBA) and moulded plastics of 
chargers or adapters of cellular mobile phones 
(HS 3926.90.99; 8504.90.90)  Notification No. 22/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of 
Finance (Department of 
Revenue) (2 February 2018) 
and Finance Bill 2018  
(14 March 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  
Extension of the concessional rate (2.5% of the 
basic customs tariff) on certain products, 
i.e. ball screws (HS 8483.40.00), linear motion 
guides (HS 8466.93.90), and CNC systems  
(HS 8537.10.00) for the manufacture of all 
types of CNC machine tools fallin g under  
HS 8456 and 8463  Notification No. 6/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of 
Finance (Department of 
Revenue) (2 February 2018) 
and Finance Bill 2018  
(14 March 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  
Elimination of the import ban on second hand 
goods imported for the  purpose of 
repair/refurbishing/re -conditioning or 
re-engineering, subject to items being re -
exported  Permanent Delegation of 
India to the WTO  
(9 May 2018) and 
Notification No. 58/2015 -
2020, Ministry of Commerce 
and Industry - Directorate 
General of Forei gn Trade  
(28 March 2018)  Effective 28 March 2018  
Indonesia  
Elimination of VAT on imports of certain 
products, e.g. certain products of animal 
origin; maize; oil seeds; miscellaneous grains, 
fats and oils and their fractions, of fish or 
marine mammals; inactive yeasts; residues 
and waste from food industries, prepared 
animal fodder; and lecithins and other 
phosphoaminolipids (HS 0505; 0511; 1005; 
1201; 1212; 1504; 2102; 2301; 2302; 2303; 
2304; 2306; 2308; 2923)  Permanent Delegation of  
Indonesia to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and 
Regulation 
142/PMK.010/2017  Effective 23 November 2017  
Reduction of import tariffs (under the APEC 
Environmental Goods Initiative) (to 8%) on 
auxiliary plants for use with boilers; condensers 
for steam or other vapo ur power units; non -
electric instantaneous or storage water 
heaters; automatic service -vending machines; 
AC generators (alternators) of an output 
exceeding 750 kVA; and wind -powered 
generating sets (HS Chapters 44; 84; 85; 90)  Permanent Delegation of  
Indon esia to the WTO  
(25 April 2018) and 
Regulation 
213/PMK.010/2017  
(29 December 2017)  Effective 1 January 2018  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 99 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Elimination of import tariffs (from 10%) on 
non-industrial diamonds, unworked or simply 
sawn, cleaved or bruted  Permanent Delegation of  
Indonesia to the WTO  
(25 April 2018) and  
Regulation 
17/PMK.010/2018  
(1 March 2018)  Effective 1 March 2018  
Iraq, Rep. of  
Reduction of the customs duty rates to four 
levels (0.5%, 10%, 15% and 30%), and 
adoption of the Harmonized System 
Nomenclature (21 Categories), resulting in the 
decrease of import tariffs for certain products  Permanent Delegation of the 
Republic of Iraq  
(24 April 2018)  Effective 1 January 2018  
Japan  
On 31 March 2018, elimination of "tariff 
emergency measures" (applied tariff rate 
(38.5%)  back to the bound tariff rate (50%)) 
on frozen beef (HS 0202) (implemented on  
1 August 2017)   Permanent Delegation of 
Japan to the WTO  
(25 May 2018)    
Elimination of import tariffs on aluminium 
hydroxide (HS 2818.30),  zirconium oxychloride 
(HS 2827.49),  
p-tertiary -butylphenol (HS 2907.19),  
1-adamantyl trimethylammonium hydroxide 
"ADAH" and tetraethylammonium hydroxide 
"TEAH" (HS 2923.90), dysprosium iron alloys 
(HS 3824.99), single flax yarn (HS 5306.10), 
ramie yarn ( HS 5308.90), and kote for kendo 
(HS 6216.00). Reduction of import tariffs on 
certain cosmetics (HS 3307.90) and on apparel 
and clothing accessories (HS Chapters 61; 62; 
63)  Permanent Delegation of 
Japan to the WTO  
(25 May 2018)  Effective 1 April 2018  
Kazakhstan  
Trade facilitation measure for importers 
through the establishment of the National 
Trade Facilitation Committee and the 
implementation of the Customs Code of the 
Eurasian Economic Union, resulting in quicker 
release of goods from one day to fou r hours  Permanent Delegation of 
Kazakhstan (2 May 2018)  Effective 25 January 2018  
Trade facilitation measure for exporters 
through the establishment of the National 
Trade Facilitation Committee and the 
implementation of the Customs Code of the 
Eurasian Economic Union, resulting in quicker 
release of goods from one day to four hours  Permanent Delegation of 
Kazakhstan (2 May 2018)  Effective 25 January 2018  
Korea, Rep. of  
Trade facilitation measure for importers 
through the extension of the electronic 
clearance examination to all goods imported by 
Authorized Economic Operator companies  Permanent Delegation of 
Korea to the WTO  
(4 June 2018)  Effective 23 October 2017  
Malaysia  
Amendments introduced to the list of 
prohibited export products, resulting in the 
removal of certain items (e.g. certain 
miscellaneous edible preparations; 
pharmaceutical goods; certain articles of iron 
and steel; certain articles of copper; nick el 
bars, rods, profiles and wire; aluminium and 
articles thereof; certain articles of lead; certain 
articles of zinc; split air conditioning; certain 
freezers) (18 tariff lines) (HS 2103; 3006; 
7310; 7419; 7505; 7612; 7806; 7611; 7907; 
8418; 8415)  Permanen t Delegation of 
Malaysia to the WTO  
(5 June 2018)  Effective 20 October 2017  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 100 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Amendments introduced to the list of 
prohibited import products, resulting in the 
removal of certain items (e.g.  flat-rolled 
products of iron or non -alloy steel; 
miscellaneous edible preparations; certain 
products of animal origin; coral; cereal pellets; 
oil-cake and other solid residues, resulting from 
the extraction of soyabean oil; organic or 
inorganic compounds of mercury; plastic 
articles for the conveyance or packing of 
goods; iron and steel reservoirs; certain 
articles of copper; certain articles of nickel; 
aluminium reservoirs; certain articles of lead; 
certain articles of zinc; drying machines; 
washing, bleaching or dyeing machines; and 
certain preparations of fish and c rustaceans 
(29 tariff lines) (HS 7211; 2103; 0507; 0508; 
0511; 1103; 2304; 2852; 3923; 7309; 7310; 
7419; 7508; 7611; 7612; 7806; 7907; 8451; 
1604; 1605)  Permanent Delegation of 
Malaysia to the WTO  
(5 June 2018)  Effective 23 February 2018  
Mauritius  
Elimination of import tariffs on knock -down 
furniture under certain requirements such as 
the integration of 20% local value addition  Permanent Delegation of 
Mauritius to the WTO  
(24 April 2018)  Effective 11 November 2017  
Trade facilitation measure for importers 
through the implementation of the "E -Customs 
Strategy", e.g. mobile application for bill of 
entry and online currency declaration platform  Permanent Delegation of 
Mauritius to the WTO  
(24 April 2018)  Implemented a s from  
February 2018  
Trade facilitation measure for exporters 
through the implementation of the "E -Customs 
Strategy", e.g. mobile application for bill of 
entry and online currency declaration platform  Permanent Delegation of 
Mauritius to the WTO  
(24 April 2018)  Implemented as from  
February 2018  
Mexico  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs on 
onions and lemons (HS 0703.10.01; 
0805.50.01; 0805.50.02; 0805.50.99), under 
certain import quotas  Permanent Delegation of 
Mexico to the WTO 
(30 May 2018) and Diario 
Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal),  
26 December 2017   Effective 27 December 2017  
Extension of the temporary elimination of 
import tariffs on certain toys and baby products 
(HS 39 24.90.99; 8715.00.01; 9401.80.01; 
9503.00.01; 9503.00.02; 9503.00.03; 
9503.00.04; 9503.00.05; 9503.00.06; 
9503.00.11; 9503.00.12; 9503.00.14; 
9503.00.15; 9503.00.16; 9503.00.20; 
9503.00.24; 9503.00.36; 9503.00.99; 
9504.90.99; 9506.62.01), under certain imp ort 
quotas (originally effective from March 2015 to 
31 December 2017)  Permanent Delegation of 
Mexico to the WTO 
(30 May 2018) and Diario 
Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal),  
26 December 2017   Effective until  
31 December 2020  
Elimination of import tariffs on microwave 
ovens (HS 8516.50.01)  Permanent Delegation of 
Mexico to the WTO 
(30 May 2018)  Effective December 2017  
New Zealand  
Trade facilitation measure through: 
(i) cooperation in customs procedures; 
(ii) supply chain security and risk 
management; (iii) mutual administrative 
assistance; (iv) information exchanges; and 
(v) exchange of personnel with European Union 
counterparts (imports)  Permanent Delegation of 
New Zealand to the WTO 
(20 April 2018)  Effective 1 May 2018  
Trade facilitation  measure through: 
(i) cooperation in customs procedures; 
(ii) supply chain security and risk 
management; (iii) mutual administrative 
assistance; (iv) information exchanges; and 
(v) exchange of personnel with European Union 
counterparts (exports)  Permanent Delegation of 
New Zealand to the WTO 
(20 April 2018)  Effective 1 May 2018  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 101 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Panama  
Implementation of the Central American Import 
Tariff (for 2,200 tariffs lines), resulting in the 
decrease of tariffs for certain products  Permanent Delegation of 
Panama to the WTO  
(24 April 2018)  Effective 1 March 2018  
Peru  
Trade facilitation measure for importers 
through the implementation of the 
Multi-sectoral Commission for Trade Facilitation 
on a permanent basis. The aims of the 
Commission are to strengthen the coordination 
between state entities linked to foreign trade, 
to reduce logistic costs, and to increase 
transparency and predictability in the 
operations of foreign trade  Permanent Delegation of 
Peru to the WTO  
(23 May 2018) and Decreto 
Supremo No. 122/2017/PCM 
(20 December 2017)    
Trade facilitation measure for exporters 
through the implementation of the 
Multi-sectoral Commission for Trade Facilitation 
on a permanent basis. The aims of the 
Commission are to strengthen the coordination 
between state entities linked to foreign trade, 
to reduce logistic costs, and to increase 
transparency and predictability in the 
operations of foreign trade  Permanent Delegation of 
Peru to the WTO  
(23 May 2018) and Decreto 
Supremo No. 122 /2017/PCM 
(20 December 2017)    
Russian Federation  
Introduction of import tariff quotas on wood in 
the rough, whether or not stripped of bark or 
sapwood, or roughly squared (HS 4403). 
In-quota rate fixed at 6.5% but not less than 
€4/m3 (out-of-quota rate for the year 2018 
fixed at 25% but not less than €15/m3) Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian Federation to the 
WTO (30 May 2018)  Effective 1 January 2018  
Eurasian Economic Union  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs (from 
8%) on magnetrons with an operating 
frequency of at least 2.44 GHz but not more 
than 2.47 GHz and an output power of not less 
than 600 W but not more than 1 kW (effective 
6 February 2018 to 31 December 2019); ( from 
5%) on turbo -jets of a kind used in civil aircraft 
of a thrust exceeding 110 kN but not exceeding 
132 kN, and turbo -jets of a kind used in civil 
aircraft of a thrust exceeding 132 kN but not 
exceeding 145 kN (effective 1 January 2018 to 
31 December 20 20); (from 8%/7%/3%) on 
certain fish and crustaceans, molluscs and 
other aquatic invertebrates (effective  
29 December 2017 to 31 December 2019); 
(from 8%/5%) on certain preparations of fish 
or of crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic 
invertebrates (effec tive 29 December 2017 to 
31 December 2019); (from 6.5%) on 
polyethylene of a kind used for applying 
three -layer anti -corrosion coating on pipes 
(effective 1 January 2018 to 30 September 
2018); and (from 5%) on compressors of a 
kind used in refrigerating eq uipment of a power 
not exceeding 0.4 kW (effective 3 March 2018 
to 31 December 2019) (HS 8540.71.00; 
8411.12.30; 8411.12.80; 0306.19.90; 
0307.43.19; 0307.43.38; 0307.43.90; 
0307.52.90; 1605.40.00; 1605.53.90; 
3901.20.90; 8418.30.20)  Permanent Delegation of  the 
Russian Federation to the 
WTO (30 May 2018)  Effective: see individual dates 
in measure  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 102 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Reduction of import tariffs (from 10% but not 
less than €0.25/ kg to 10% plus €0.08/kg) on 
linoleum; (from 15% but not less than €0.165/l 
to 15%) on household refr igerators; (from 
15% but not less than €0.165/l to 15%) on 
household freezers of a capacity exceeding 400 
l but not exceeding 800 l; (from 15% but not 
less than €0.16/l to 15%) on household 
freezers of a capacity exceeding 250 l but not 
exceeding 900 l; (f rom 5% but not less than 
€0.5/1 cm3 of cylinder capacity to 5%) on 
dumpers designed for off -highway use with 
compression -ignition internal combustion 
piston engines (diesel or semi -diesel engines) 
and of a cylinder capacity exceeding 2,500 cm3 
or with spar k-ignition internal combustion 
piston engines and of a cylinder capacity 
exceeding 2,800cm3 with a number of axles not 
exceeding two; (from 15% but not less than 
€2,907 per1 p/st to 15%) on car bodies; (from 
9% but not less than €13.8 per 1 t of total 
weight to 9%) on automobile semi -trailers, 
with a total weight more than 15 tonnes and 
with an overall length of less than 13.6 m; and 
(from 9% but not less than €9.7/m3 of internal 
body space to 9%) on refrigerating equipment, 
with an internal body space of n ot less than 
76 m3 Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian Federation to the 
WTO (30 May 2018)  Effective 24 March 2018  
Extension of the temporary elimination of 
import tariffs on cocoa paste and cocoa butter 
(HS 1803.10.00; 1804.00.00) (originally 
implemented on 26 March 2016 until  
31 December 2017)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian Federation to the 
WTO (30 May 2018)  Effective 1 January 2018 to  
31 December 2019  
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
Trade facilitation measure for importers 
through the implementation of a National 
Single Window and the "Authorized Economic 
Operator" scheme  Permanent Delegation of 
Saudi Arabia to the WTO 
(30 May 2018)  Effective 31 December 2017  
Trade facilitation measure for exporters 
through the implementation of a National 
Single Window and the "Authorized Economic 
Operator" scheme  Permanent Delegation of 
Saudi Arabia to the WTO 
(30 May 2018)  Effective 31 December 2017  
Seychelles  
Elimination of import tariffs on dietary 
supplements; certain food preparations; 
asbestos -cement corrugated sheets; bicycles 
and other cycles (including delivery tricycles) 
with motors for propulsion (effective  
1 January 2018); and protective clothing for 
industrial, agriculture or marine use (effective 
1 April 2018) (HS 2106; 6811; 8711; 6211)  Permanent Delegation of 
Seychelles to the WTO  
(9 May 2018)  Effective: see individual dates 
in measure  
Switzerland  
Increase of the import quota (by 1,000 tonnes 
to 17,428 tonnes) on eggs for consumption 
(HS 0407.21.10; 0407.29.10; 0407.90.10)  Permanent Delegation of 
Switzerland to the WTO  
(14 May 2018)  Effective 1 January 2018  
Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
Elimination of import tariffs (from 20%) on 
palm kernel shell (HS1404.90.99); (from 5%) 
on silicone adhesive (HS 3214.10.90); and on 
certain plastics and articles thereof  
(HS 3920.59.10); (from 8%) on glass  
(HS 7007.19.00); (from 10%) on raw silk 
products (HS 5002; 5003; 5004); (from 4%) 
on other machinery under heading HS 8479 
(HS8479.89.99); and (from 4.5%) on other 
electrical machines and apparatus  
(HS 8543.70.99)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Separate Cus toms Territory 
of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen 
and Matsu  to the WTO  
(30 May 2018)  Effective 24 November 2017  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Trade facilitation measure for importers to 
allow cargo to be examined and released next 
to the airplane through the implementation of 
joint examinatio n by licensing agencies 
(quarantine and sanitation authorities)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Separate Customs Territory 
of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen 
and Matsu  to the WTO  
(20 April 2018)  Effective 11 December 2017  
Thailand  
Introduction of automatic import license for 
certain minerals  Permanent Delegation of 
Thailand to the WTO  
(5 June 2018)  Effective 31 January 2018  
Introduction of automatic export license for 
certain minerals  Permanent Delegation of 
Thailand to the WTO  
(5 June 2018)  Effective 31 January 2018  
Turkey  
Temporary elimination of import tariffs (from 
19.3%) on certain dried leguminous vegetables 
(e.g. chickpeas ( garbanzos ), beans) (effective 
2 December 2017 to 1 June 2018); and (from 
35%) on barley (effective 31 December 2017 
to 1 April 2018). Temporary reduction of 
import tariffs (from 34% to 5%) on paddy or 
rough rice; (from 45% to 10%) on brown rice; 
and (from 45% to 15 %) on semi -milled or 
wholly milled rice, and broken rice (effective  
31 December 2017 to 1 July 2018)  Permanent Delegation of 
Turkey to the WTO  
(30 May 2018)  Effective: see individual dates 
in measure  
Elimination of import tariffs (from 4%) on bran 
of maize (corn); (from 5%) on bran of other 
cereals or leguminous plants; (from 2%) on 
flours of fish (effective 22 November 2017); 
(from 7.8%) on pure -bred breeding bovine 
animals; and (from 10%) on live bov ine 
animals for stockbreeding (effective  
31 December 2017). Reduction of import tariffs 
(from 30% to 10%) on cashew nuts; (from 
43.2% to 15%) on almonds and walnuts; and 
(from 13.5% to 6.5%) on certain residues of 
cotton seeds, linseed, sunflower seed, ra pe or 
colza seed;  and on residues of other seeds 
(effective 31 December 2017)  Permanent Delegation of 
Turkey to the WTO  
(30 May 2018)  Effective: see individual dates 
in measure  
 
Recorded, but non -confirmed information3 
Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Algeria  
Temporary special authorization ( exclusion du 
régime des restrictions à  l'importation ) to import 
self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip 
and other flat shapes, of plastic, whether or not 
in rolls (HS 3919.90.11; 3919.90.12; 
3923.21.3 0; 3923.21.90; 3923.29.30)  Press reports referring to 
Communiqué relatif aux 
Mécanismes d'Encadrement des 
Opérations d'Importation de 
Marchandises - Ministère du 
Commerce  Effective 1 January 2018  
                                                
3 This Section includes information which has been obtained from public sources but has not yet been 
confirmed by the delegation concerned.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  ANNEX 2  - TRADE REMEDIES1 
(MID-OCTOBER 201 7 TO MID -MAY 2018) 
Confirmed information2 
Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Argentina  
Initiation on 7 November 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of vacuum cleaners (NCM 8508.11.00; 
8508.19.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/ARG,  
16 February 2018    
Termination on 1 December 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of woven fabrics of wool 
(NCM  5112.11.00; 5112.19.10; 5112.20.10; 
5112.30.10; 5112.90.00; 5515.13.00) from Brazil, 
China and Peru (investigation initiated on  
31 May 2016 and provisional duty imposed on  
7 December 2016)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/ARG,  
16 February 2018    
Termination on 31 December 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of electrical connection terminals for cable 
diameters of up to 35 mm2 (NCM 8536.10; 
8536.50; 8536.90) from Germany (imposed on  
4 September 2009)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/ARG,  
16 February 2018    
Termination on 16 February 2018 (without 
measure) of AD investigation on imports of 
electrical transformers having a power handling 
capacity exceeding 10,000 kVA but not exceeding 
600,000 kVA (NCM 8504.23.00) from India 
(initiated on 19 August 2016)  Perman ent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Resolución 
No. 76/2018 Ministerio de 
Producción  
(15 February 2018)    
Initiation on 21 February 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of denim (tejidos de mezclilla)  
(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, China and 
Peru Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Resolución 
No. 82/2018 Secretaría de 
Comercio, Ministerio de 
Producción  
(20 February 2018)    
Termination on 21 February 2018  of AD duties on 
imports of men's or boys' suits, blazers and 
jackets (NCM 6203.11.00; 6203.12.00; 
6203.19.00; 6203.22.00; 6203.23.00; 
6203.29.10; 6203.29.90; 6203.31.00; 
6203.32.00; 6203.33.00; 6203.39.00) from China 
(investigation initiated on 16 February 2010 and 
definitive duty imposed on 3 January 2012)  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Resolución 
No. 88/2018 Ministerio de 
Producción   
(20 February 2018)    
Initiation on 28 February 2018  of AD investigation 
on imports of zinc oxide  (blanco de cinc) (NCM 
2817.00.10) from Brazil and Peru  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Resolución 
No. 103/2018 Secretaría de 
Comercio, Ministerio de 
Producción  
(26 February 2018)    
Initiation on 5 March 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of pliers  (tenazas de mano)  
(NCM 8203.20.90) from China and India  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Resolución 
No. 116/2018 Secretaría de 
Comercio, Ministerio de 
Producción (1 March 2018)    
                                                
1 The inclusion of any measure in this Annex implies no judgement by the WTO Secretariat on whether 
or not such measu re, 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 referred to with the provisions of any 
WTO agreement.  
2 This Section includes information whic h has either been provided by the Member concerned or has 
been confirmed at the request of the Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
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  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 23 April 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of shock absorbers for motorcycles  
(NCM 8714.10.00; 8714.99.90) from China  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Resolución 
No. 235/2018 Secretaría de 
Comercio, Ministerio de 
Producción (20 April 2018)    
Termination on 23 April 2018 (without measure) of 
AD investigation on imports of emergency lighting 
devices (NCM 9405.10.99) from China (initiated on 
5 September 2017)  Permanent Delegation  of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Resolución 
No. 237/2018 Secretaría de 
Comercio, Ministerio de 
Producción (20 April 2018)    
Australia  
Initiation on 19 October 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of certain aluminium extrusions  
(HS 7604.10.00; 7604.21.00; 7604.29.00; 
7608.10.00; 7608.20.00; 7610.10.00; 
7610.90.00) from China and Thailand  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/AUS,  
13 March 2018    
Initiation on 13 November 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of steel pallet racking  
(HS 7308.90.00) from China and Malaysia  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/AUS/Corr.1, 
21 March 2018    
Termination on 20 December 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of hot rolled coil steel "HRC"  
(HS 7208.25.00; 7208.26.00; 7208.27.00; 
7208.36.00; 7208.37.00; 7208.38.00; 
7208.39.00; 7208.53.00; 7208.54.00; 
7208.90.00; 7211.14.00; 7211.19.00) from 
Japan; Korea, Rep. of and Malaysia  (investigation 
initiated on 15 June 2012. Provisional and 
definitive duties imposed on 5 October and  
20 December 2012)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/AUS,  
13 March 2018    
Termination on 6 February 2018 (without 
measure) of AD investigation on imports of certain 
wind towers (HS 7308.20.00; 7308.90.00; 
8502.31.10) from Viet Nam (initiated on  
8 June 2017)  Permanent Delegation of 
Australia to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and Australia 
Customs Dumping Notice No. 
2018/20 (5 February 2018)    
Initiation on 19 March 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of A4 copy paper (HS 4802.56.10) from 
Austria; Finland; Korea, Rep. of; the Russian 
Federation and the Slovak Republic  Permanent Delegation of 
Australia to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and Australia 
Customs Dumping Notice No. 
2018/39 (19 March 2018)    
Termination on 23 March 2018 (without measure) 
of AD investigation on imports of steel rod in coils 
(HS 7213.91.00; 7227.90.90) from Indonesia; 
Korea, Rep. of and Viet Nam (investigation 
initiated on 7 June 2017)  Permanent Delegation of 
Australia to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and Australia 
Customs Dumping Notice No. 
2018/53 (26 March 2018)    
Initiation on 18 April 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of railway wheels (HS 8607.19.00) from 
China and France  Permanent Delegation of 
Australia to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and Australia 
Customs Dumping Notice No. 
2018/59 (18 April 2018)    
Initiation on 18 April 2018 of CVD investigation on 
imports of railway wheels (HS 8607.19.00) from 
China  Permanent Delegation of 
Australia to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and Australia 
Customs Dumping Notice No. 
2018/59 (18 April 2018)    
Resumption on 2 May 2018 of AD 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 (originally 
initiated on 10 January 2017 and terminated on  
25 January 2018)  Permanent Delegation of 
Australia to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and Australia 
Customs Dumping Notice Nos. 
2018/17 (25 January 2018) 
and 2018/73 (2 May 2018)    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 106 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Brazil  
Initiation on 17 October 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of plasterboards or plaster 
compositions,  faced or reinforced with paper or 
paperboard only (NCM 6809.11.00) from Mexico  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/BRA, 
11 April 2018; and Camex 
Resolution No. 19/2018  
(27 March 2018)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
28 March 2018  
Termination on 18 October 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of cold polymerized emulsion styrene -
butadiene rubber (E -SBR) (NCM 4002.19.11; 
4002.19.19) from the European Union 
(investigation initiated on 27 May 2014 and 
definitive duty imposed on 20 November 201 5)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/BRA, 
11 April 2018   
Termination on 7 December 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of stainless steel cutlery of a high standard 
(NCM 8211.10.00; 8211.91.00; 8215.20.00; 
8215.99.10) from China (investigation initiated on 
13 June 2011 and definitive duty imposed on  
6 December 2012)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/BRA, 
11 April 2018   
Initiation on 2 January 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of poly(ethylene terephthalate) films  
(NCM 3920.62.19; 3920.62.91; 3920.62.99) from 
the Kingdom of Bahrain and Peru  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and Secex 
Circular No. 68  
(29 December 2017)    
Temporary suspension on 18 January 2018 of AD 
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 
and defin itive duty imposed on 18 January 2018)  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018)    
Initiation on 26 March 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of rolls for rolling mills (NCM 8455.30.10; 
8455.30.90) from China  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and Secex 
Circular No. 14/2018  
(23 March 2018)    
Termination on 9 April 2018 of AD duties on 
imports of light -weight coated paper (NCM 
4810.22.90) from Canada and the United States 
(investigation initiated on 10 December 2010. 
Provisional and definitive duties imposed on  
10 November 2011 and 23 April 20 12) Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and Camex 
Resolution No. 25/2018  
(23 March 2018)    
Canada  
Initiation on 27 October 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of certain copper pipe fittings  
(HS 7412.10.00; 7412.20.00) from Viet Nam WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/CAN,  
14 March 2018  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
25 January 2018  
Initiation on 27 October 2017 of CVD investigation 
on imports of certain copper pipe fittings  
(HS 7412.10.00; 7412.20.00) from Viet Nam  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/328/CAN,  
26 March 2018  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
25 January 2018  
Termination on 2 November 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of certain silicon metals (HS 2804.69.00) 
from Brazil, Kazakhstan, Lao People's Democratic 
Republic, Malaysia and Thailand (investigation 
initiated on 20 February 2017 and provisional duty 
imposed on 5 July 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/CAN,  
14 March 2018    
Termination on 2 November 2017 of CVD duties on 
imports of certain silicon metals (HS 2804.69.00) 
from Brazil, Kazakhstan, Malaysia and Norway 
(investigation initiated on 20 February 2017 and 
provisional duty imposed on 5 July 2017)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/328/CAN,  
26 March 2018    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 107 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 28 December 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of certain dry wheat pasta 
(HS 1902.19.21; 1902.19.22; 1902.19.23; 
1902.19.29; 1902.19.93; 1902.19.91; 
1902.19.99; 1902.19.92) from Turkey  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/CAN,  
14 March 2018; Permanent 
Delegation of Canada to the 
WTO (28 May 2018) and 
Canada Border Service 
Agency Notice DWP 2017 IN 
(28 March 2018)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
28 March 2018  
Initiation on 28 December 2017 of CVD 
investigation on imports of certain dry wheat pasta 
(HS 1902.19.21; 1902.19.22; 1902.19.23; 
1902.19.29; 1902.19.93; 1902.19.91; 
1902.19.99; 1902.19.92) from Turkey  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/328/CAN,  
26 March 2018; Permanent 
Delegation of Canada to the 
WTO (28 May 2018) and 
Canada Border Service 
Agency Notice DWP 2017 IN 
(28 March 2018)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
28 March 2018  
Termination on 16 March 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of certain polyethylene terephthalate 
(PET resin) (HS 3907.61.00; 3907.69.00) from 
China, India, Oman and Pakistan (investigation 
initiated on 18 August 2017 and provisional duty 
imposed on 16 Nov ember 2017)  Permanent Delegation of 
Canada to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and Canadian 
International Trade Tribunal 
Inquiry No. NQ -2017-003  
(16 March 2018)    
Termination on 16 March 2018 of CVD duties on 
imports of certain polyethylene terephthalate (PET 
resin) (HS 3907.61.00; 3907.69.00) from China, 
India, Oman and Pakistan (investigation initiated 
on 18 August 2017 and provisional duty imposed 
on 16 November 2017)  Permanent Delegation of 
Canada to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and Canadian 
International Trade T ribunal 
Inquiry No. NQ -2017-003  
(16 March 2018)    
Chile  
Termination on 17 November 2017  of AD duties on 
imports of  steel bars (HS 7213.10.00; 7214.20.00; 
7227.90.00; 7228.30.00) from Mexico 
(investigation initiated on 27 November 2015. 
Provisional and definitive duties imposed on 19 
May and 17 November 2016)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/CHL,  
22 March 2018    
Initiation on 8 March  2018 of SG investigation on 
imports of powdered milk and Gouda cheese  
(HS 0402; 0406)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/CHL/20,  
9 March 2018   
Initiation on 8 March 2018  of AD investigation on 
imports of  steel bars (HS 7213.10.00; 7214.20.00; 
7227.90.00; 7228.30.00) from Mexico  Permanent Delegation of Chile 
to the WTO (18 May 2018)    
China  
Initiation on 16 October 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of hydriodic acid (HS 2811.19.90) from 
Japan and the United States  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/CHN,  
18 April 2018    
Initiation on 30 October 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of ethanolamines (HS 2922.11.00; 
2922.12.00; 2922.13.10) from Malaysia, the 
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Thailand and the 
United  States  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/CHN,  
18 April 2018    
Initiation on 9 November 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of acrylonitrile -butadiene rubber (NBR) 
(HS 4002.59.10; 4002.59.90) from Japan and 
Korea, Rep. of  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/CHN,  
18 April 2018    
Initiation on 29 December 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of butan -1-ol  
(n-butyl alcohol)  (HS 2905.13.00) from Malaysia, 
Chinese  Taipei and the United States  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/CHN,  
18 April 2018    
Initiation on 23 January 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of ortho dichlorobenzene (ODCB)  
(HS 2903.91.10) from India and Japan  Permanent Delegation of 
China to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and MOFCOM 
Announcement No. 6/2018 
(24 January 2018)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
20 April 2018  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 108 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 4 February 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of grain sorghum (HS 1007.90.00) 
from the United States  Permanent Delegation of 
China to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and MOFCOM 
Announcement Nos. 12/2018 
(4 February 2018) and 
38/2018 (18 April 2018)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
18 April 2018  
Initiation on 4 February 2018 of CVD investigation 
on imports of grain sorghum (HS 1007.90.00) 
from the United States  Permanent Delegation of 
China to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and MOFCOM 
Announcement Nos. 13/2018 
(4 February 2018) and 
38/2018 (18 April 2018)  Provisional duty 
imposed on  
18 April 2018  
Termination on 27 February 2018 of AD duties on 
imports of broiler chicken products 
(HS 0207.11.00; 0207.12.00; 0207.13.11; 
0207.13.19; 0207.13.21; 0207.13.29; 
0207.14.11; 0207.14.19; 0207.14.21; 
0207.14.22; 0207.14.29; 0504.00.21) from the 
United States (investigation initiated on 27 
September 2009. Provisional and defin itive duties 
imposed on 5  February  and 27  September  2010)  Permanent Delegation of 
China to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and MOFCOM 
Announcement No. 5/2018 
(27 February 2018)    
Termination on 27 February 2018 of CVD duties 
investigation on imports of broiler chicken products 
(HS 0207.11.00; 0207.12.00; 0207.13.11; 
0207.13.19; 0207.13.21; 0207.13.29; 
0207.14.11; 0207.14.19; 0207.14.21; 
0207.14.22; 0207.14.29; 0504.00.21) from the 
United States (investigation initiated on  
27 September 2009. Provisional and definitive 
duties imposed on 28  April and 29 August 2010)  Permanent Delegation of 
China to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and MOFCOM 
Announcement No. 5/2018 
(27 February 2018)    
Termination on 13 March 2018 of AD duties on 
imports of toluene diisocyanate (TDI80/20)  
(HS 2929.10.10) from the European Union 
(investigation initiated on 23 March 2012. 
Provisional and definitive duties imposed on  
13 November 2012 and 12 March 2013)  Permanent Delegation of 
China to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and MOFCOM 
Announcement No. 26/2018 
(12 March 2018)    
Initiation on 26 March 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of phenol (HS 2907.11.10) from the 
European Union; Japan; Korea, Rep. of; Thailand 
and the United States  Permanent Delegation of 
China to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and MOFCOM 
Announcement No. 33/2018 
(28 March 2018)    
Costa Rica  
Initiation on 29 March 2018 of SG 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)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/CRI/4, 
26 March  2018    
Egypt  
Termination on 23 October 2017 (without 
measure) of AD investigation on imports of 
polyvinyl chloride (HS 3904.10.00) from the 
United States (initiated on 16 November 2016)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/EGY,  
31 January 2018    
El Salvador  
Initiation on 16 November 2017 of AD 
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  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/SLV,  
22 January 2018    
European Union  
Initiation on 20 October 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of electric bicycles "e -bikes"  
(HS 8711.60.10; 8711.60.90) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/EU,  
29 March 2018    
Initiation on 19 December 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of silicon (HS 2804.69.00) 
from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Brazil  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/EU,  
29 March 2018    
Initiation on 21 December 2017 of CVD 
investigation on imports of electric bicycles "e -
bikes" (HS 8711.60.10; 8711.60.90) from China  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/328/EU,  
28 March 2018    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 109 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Termination on 30 January 2018 (without 
measure) of AD investigation on imports of certain 
cast iron articles (HS 7325.10.00; 7325.99.10) 
from India (initiated on 10 December 2016)  Commission Implementing 
Regulation No. 2018/140  
(29 January 2018)    
Initiation on 31 January 2018 of CVD 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 
Argentina  Commission Notice 2018/C 
34/11 (31 December 2017)    
Initiation on 26 March 2018 of SG investigation on 
imports of certain steel products (HS Chapters 72 
and 73)  Commission Notice 2018/C 
111/10 (26 March 2018) and 
WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/EU/1, 
27 March  2018   
India  
Initiation on 2 November 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of uncoated copier paper (HS 4802) 
from Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 28 November 2017 (without 
measure) of AD investigation on imports of n -butyl 
alcohol (HS 2905.13.00) from the Kingdom of 
Saudi Arabia (investigation initiated on  
2 September 2016)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 9 November 2017 of  AD duties on 
imports of metronidazole (HS 3004.90.22) from 
China (imposed on 17 April 2000)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 9 November 2017 of  AD duties on 
imports of cellophane transparent film (HS 
3920.71.11) from China (imposed on  
30 March 2006)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 9 November 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of geogrid/geostrips/geostraps made of 
polyester or glass fiber in all its forms (including all 
widths and lengths) (HS 3902.10.00; 3914.00.90; 
3920.10.19; 3926.90.99; 5503.40.00; 
5603.13.30; 5603.94.00; 5604.90.00; 
5903.10.90; 5911.10.00; 5911.31.50; 
5911.31.90; 5911.90.90; 7019.40.00; 
7019.59 .00; 7019.90.10; 7019.90.90) from China 
(investigation initiated on 20 December 2010 and 
definitive duty imposed on 24 January 2012)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 9 November 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of phosphoric acid of  all grades and all 
concentrations (excluding agriculture/fertilizer 
grade) (HS 2809.20.10) from Israel and Chinese 
Taipei (investigation initiated on 4 February 2011. 
Provisional and definitive duties imposed on 13 
January and 4 April 2012)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 23 November 2017 of  AD duties on 
imports of phosphoric acid - technical grade and 
food grade (HS 2809.20.10) from China (imposed 
on 14 September 2007)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 25 November 2017 of  AD duties on 
imports of caustic soda -I (HS 2815.11.10; 
2815.11.20) from Iran, Islamic Rep. of (imposed 
on 26 December 2000)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 11 December 2017 (without 
measure)  of AD investigation on imports of 
polybutadiene rubber (butadiene rubber "PBR")  
(HS 4002.20.00) from Iran, Islamic Rep. of; 
Korea, Rep. of; Russian Federation; Singapore and 
South Africa (investigation initiated on  
16 September 2016)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N /308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 13 December 2017 of  AD duties on 
imports of sodium hydrosulphite –I (HS 2831; 
2832) from China (imposed on 28 March 2001)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 110 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 19 December 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of sodium nitrite  
(HS 2834.10) from the Russian Federation  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Initiation on 19 December 2017 of SG 
investigation on imports of solar cells, whether or 
not assembled in modules or panels  
(HS 8541.40.11)  WTO document  
G/SG/N/6/IND/44,  
3 January 2018    
Termination on 20 December 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of choline chloride, in all forms and 
concentrations, used for animal feed  
(HS 2309.90.10; 2923.10.00) from China 
(investigation initiated on 25 October 2011 and 
definitive duty imposed on 21 Decembe r 2012)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 30 December 2017 of  AD duties on 
imports of saccharin (HS 2925.11.00) from China 
(imposed on 6 June 2006)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IND, 
19 April 2018   
Termination on 31 December 2017 of SG duties on 
imports of sodium citrate (HS 2918.15.20) 
(investigation initiated on 4 March 2014 and 
definitive duty imposed on 31 December 2014)  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018)    
Initiation on 2 January 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of zeolite 4A (detergent grade)  
(HS 2839.90.90) from China  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018) and 
Notification F. No. 6/14/2017 -
DGAD - (Case No. OI -
25/2017) Ministry of 
Commer ce and Industry - 
Directorate General of Anti -
Dumping and Allied Duties  
(2 January 2018)    
Initiation on 2 January 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of fluoroelastomers "FKM" (HS 3904) from 
China  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018) and 
Notification F. No. 6/25/2017 -
DGAD - (Case No. OI -
30/2017) Ministry of 
Commerce and Industr y - 
Directorate General of 
Anti-Dumping and Allied 
Duties (2 January 2018)    
Initiation on 17 January 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of sun - and/or dust -control film  
(HS 3920.69.29) from China; Hong Kong, China; 
Korea, Rep. of and Chinese Taipei  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018) and 
Notification No. 6/44/ 2017-
DGAD - Ministry of Commerce 
and Industry - Directorate 
General of Anti -Dumping and 
Allied Duties  
(17 January 2018)    
Initiation on 22 January 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of dimethylformamide "DMF"  
(HS 2921.11.10) from China, Germany and the 
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018) and 
Notification F. No. 6/37/2017 -
DGAD - Ministry of Commerce 
and Industry - Directorate 
General of Anti -Dumping and 
Allied Duties  
(22 January 2018)    
Initiation on 23 January 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of coated paper (HS 4810) from China, 
the European Union and the United States  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018) and 
Notification F. No. 6/42/2017 -
DGAD - (Case No. OI -
45/2017) Ministry of 
Commerce and Industry - 
Directorate General of Anti -
Dumping and Allied Duties  
(23 January 2018)    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 111 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 24 January 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of meta -phenylene diamene -4-
sulphonic acid "MPDSA" (HS 2922.29.26) from 
China  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018) and 
Notification F. No. 6/35/2017 -
DGAD - Ministry of Commerce 
and Industry - Directorate  
General of Anti -Dumping and 
Allied Duties  
(24 January 2018)    
Initiation on 5 February 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of textured 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) from Malaysia  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018) and 
Notification F. No. 6/45/2017 -
DGAD - Ministry of Commerce 
and Industry - Directorate 
General of Anti -Dumping and 
Allied Duties  
(5 February 2018)    
Initiation on 7 February 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of flax yarn (HS 5306.10.90; 
5306.20.90) from China  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018) and 
Notification F. No. 6/3/2018 -
DGAD - (Case No. OI -3/2018) 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry - Director ate General 
of Anti -Dumping and Allied 
Duties (7 February 2018)    
Termination on 13 March 2018 of SG duties on 
imports of hot -rolled flat products of non -alloy and 
other alloy steel in coils of a width of 600 mm or 
more (HS 7208; 7225.30.90) (initiated on 7 
September 2015. Provisional and definitive duties 
imposed on 14 September 2015 and  
29 March 2016)  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018)    
Initiation on 27  March  2018 of CVD investigation 
on imports of new pneumatic tyres for buses and 
lorries (HS  4011.20) from China  Notification F. No. 6/8/2018 -
DGAD - Ministry of Commerce 
and Industry - Directorate 
General of Anti -Dumping and 
Allied Duties (27 March 2018)    
Initiation on 4 April 2018 of AD 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  Notification F. No. 6/10/2018 -
DGAD - (Case No. OI -7/2018) 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry - Directorate General 
of Anti -Dumping and Allied 
Duties (4 April 2018)    
Initiation on 4 April 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) sheet for 
solar modules (HS 3901; 3902; 3921) from China; 
Korea, Rep. of; Malaysia; the Kingdom of Saudi 
Arabia and Thailand  Notification F. No. 6/9/2018 -
DGAD - (Case No. OI. 6/2018) 
Ministry of C ommerce and 
Industry - Directorate General 
of Anti -Dumping and Allied 
Duties (4 April 2018)    
Initiation on 10 April 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of non -plasticized industrial grade 
nitrocellulose (excluding nitrocellulose damped in 
ethanol and waterwet) (HS 3912.20.19) from 
Brazil, Indonesia and Thailand  Notification F. No. 6/12/2018 -
DGAD - (Case No. OI -9/2018) 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry - Directorate General 
of Anti -Dumping and Allied 
Duties (10 April 2018)    
Indonesia  
Initiation on 27 October 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of spin drawn yarn "SDY"  
(HS 5402.47.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/IDN, 
20 April 2018   
Initiation on 29 March 2018 of SG investigation on 
imports of ceramic flags and paving, hearth or wall 
tiles; and ceramic mosaic cubes and the like, 
whether or not on a backing  (HS 6907)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/IDN/28, 
3 April 2018    
Israel  
Termination on 25 October 2017 (without 
measure) of AD investigation on cocoa spread (HS 
1806.90.99; 1806.90.20) from the European Union 
(initiated on 27 September 2016)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/ISR, 
14 February  2018   WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 112 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Korea, Rep. of  
Termination on 29 December 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of PET film (HS 3920.62) from Japan 
(investigation initiated on 2 December 2013 and 
definitive duty imposed on 30 December 2014)  Permanent Delegation of 
Korea to the WTO  
(4 June 2018)    
Mexico  
Initiation on 14 November 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of steel plate in sheets 
(HS 7208.51.01; 7208.51.02; 7208.51.03; 
7208.52.01; 7225.40.99)  from Italy and Japan  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/MEX,  
12 March 2018    
Termination on 15 January 2018 of AD  duties on 
imports of  graphite electrodes for electric arc 
furnaces (HS  8545.11.01)  from China 
(investigation initiated on 1 September 2010. 
Provisional and definitive duties imposed on 
31 May 2011 and 1 March 2012)   Permanent Delegation of 
Mexico to the WTO 
(30 May 2018) and Diario 
Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal),  
15 January 2018     
Initiation on 6 February 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of  short-fibre polyester  (HS 
5503.20.01; 5503.20.99) from Chin a Permanent Delegation of 
Mexico to the WTO 
(30 May 2018) and Diario 
Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal),  
6 February 2018     
Termination on 6 March 2018 of AD duties on 
imports of monobutyl ether of ethylene glycol (HS 
2909.43.01) from the United States (investigation 
initiated on 11 March 2011. Provisional and 
definitive duties imposed on 9 April and  
12 September 2012)  Permanent Delegation of 
Mexico to the WTO 
(30 May 2018) and Diario 
Oficial de la Federación 
(Official Journal),  
6 March 2018     
Morocco  
Termination on 9 November 2017 (without 
measure) of AD investigation on imports of 
ceramic tiles (HS 6908.90.00) from  Spain 
(initiated on 18 May 2016)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/MAR,  
29 March 2018    
New Zealand  
Termination on 8 February 2018 of AD duties on 
imports of preserved peaches (HS 2008.70.09) 
from China (imposed on 21 August 2006)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/NZL,  
19 March 2018    
Termination on 3 March 2018 (without measure) of 
AD investigation on imports of reinforcing steel bar 
and coil (rebar) (HS 7213.10.90; 7213.91.90; 
7213.99.90; 7214.20.90; 7214.99.90; 
7227.90.00; 7228.30.00; 7 228.50.00; 
7228.60.00) from China and Malaysia (initiated on 
15 August 2017)  Permanent Delegation of 
New Zealand to the WTO  
(20 April 2018)    
Termination on 3 March 2018 (without measure) of 
CVD investigation on imports of reinforcing steel 
bar and coil (rebar) (HS 7213.10.90; 7213.91.90; 
7213.99.90; 7214.20.90; 7214.99.90; 
7227.90.00; 7228.30.00; 7228.50.00; 
7228.60.00) from China (initiated on   
15 August 2017)  Permanent Delegation of 
New Zealand to the WTO  
(20 April 2018)    
Initiation on 9 April 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of certain hollow steel sections  
(HS 7306.30.19; 7306.61.00) from China and 
Malaysia  Permanent Delegation of 
New Zealand to the WTO  
(20 April 2018)    
Initiation on 9 April 2018 of CVD investigation on 
imports of certain hollow steel sections  
(HS 7306.30.19; 7306.61.00) from China  Permanent Delegation of 
New Zealand to the WTO  
(20 April 2018)    
Pakistan  
Termination on 18 October 2017 of CVD duties on 
imports of fine cotton yarn (HS 5205.15.00; 
5205.27.00; 5205.28.00; 5205.35.00; 
5205.47.00; 5205.48.00) from India (investigation 
initiated on 20 April 2016 and provisional duty 
imposed on 18 January 2017)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/328/PAK, 
26 February 2018    
Initiation on 13 December 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of lead pencils  
(HS 9609.10.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/PAK, 
26 February 2018    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 113 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Termination on 16 December 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of phthalic anhydride (HS 2917.35.00) 
from the Russian Federation (investigation initiated 
on 13 February 2016 and provisional duty imposed 
on 31 May 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/PAK, 
26 February 2018    
Peru  
Termination on 25 October 2017 of AD  duties on 
imports of all types of footwear (other than 
sandals and flip -flops) with uppers of materials 
other than plastic, rubber and leather (except 
textile materials)  (HS 64) from China (imposed on 
31 January 2000)  Permanent Delegation of Peru 
to the W TO (23 May 2018)    
Initiation on 2 November 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of certain steel bars (HS 7213; 7214; 
7217; 7228) from China and Mexico  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/PER,  
17 April 2018    
Philippines  
Termination in May 2018 of SG duties on imports 
of newsprint (HS  4801.00.10; 4801.00.90) 
(investigation initiated on 20 September 2013 and 
definitive duty imposed on 5 May 2015)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Philippines to the WTO  
(24 April 2018)    
SACU - Southern African Customs Union  
(Botswana, Eswat ini, Lesotho, Namibia and South Africa)  
Initiation on 20 April 2018 of SG investigation on 
imports of other screws fully threaded with 
hexagon heads made of steel  
(HS 7318.15.39)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/ZAF/6,  
24 April 2018    
Termination on 4 May 2018 of AD duties on 
imports of fully threaded screws with hexagon 
heads, excluding those of stainless steel  
(HS 7318.15.39) from China (investigation 
initiated on 18 November 2011. Provi sional and 
definitive duties imposed on 4  May and 16 
November 2012)  Permanent Delegation of 
South Africa to the WTO (28 
May 2018) and International 
Trade Administration 
Commission Notice No. R. 470  
- Government Gazette No. 
41605 (4 May 2018)    
Thailand  
Initiation on 29 November 2017 of AD 
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 Austra lia and Egypt  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/THA, 
2 February  2018   
Initiation on 29 November 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of melamine tableware 
(HS 3924.10.10) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/THA, 
2 February  2018   
Termination on 8 March 2018 (without measure) of 
AD investigation on imports of  galvanized flat 
sheet and coil (HS 7212.30; 7225.92.90) from 
China; Korea, Rep. of and Chinese Taipei 
(investigation initiated on 14 September 2016)  Permanent Delegation of 
Thailand to the WTO (5 June 
2018)   
Turkey  
Termination on 28 November 2017 (without 
measure) of AD investigation on imports of tubes 
and pipes of cast iron (HS 7303.00.10; 
7303.00.90) from India and the United Arab 
Emirates (initiated on 31 July 2016)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/TUR,  
14 March 2018    
Initiation on 28 November 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of polycarboxylate 
polymers (HS 3824.40; 3906.90.90) from  
Korea, Rep. of  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/TUR,  
14 March 2018    
Initiation on 30 November 2017 of AD 
investigation on  imports of lighters (gas, oven and 
cooker component) (HS 9613.80.00) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/TUR,  
14 March 2018    
Termination on 29 December 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of copper wired rod (HS 7408.11) from the 
Russian Federation (imposed on  
9 November 2005)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/TUR,  
14 March 2018    
Termination on 29 December 2017 of AD duties on 
imports of copper wired rod (HS 7408.11) from 
Ukraine (imposed on 8 June 2006)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/TUR,  
4 March 2018    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 114 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Termination on 5 January 2018 (without measure) 
of SG investigation on imports of pneumatic tyres 
(HS 4011.10; 4011.20; 4011.70; 4011.80; 
4011.90; 8708.70) (initiated on 6 April 2017)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/TUR/22/Suppl.1, 
17 January 2018    
Initiation on 23 February 2018 of SG investigation 
on imports of wallpaper and similar wallcoverings 
(HS 4814.20.00; 4814.90.10; 4814.90.70)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/TUR/20/Suppl.1,  
9 March 2018    
Initiation on 6 March 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of cored wire of base metal, for electric 
arc-welding  (HS 8311.20.00) from Viet Nam  Permanent Delegation of 
Turkey to the WTO  
(30 May 2018)    
Initiation on 20 March 2018 of CVD investigation 
on imports of acrylic or modacrylic  
(HS 5501.30.00) from China  Permanent Delegation of 
Turkey to the WTO  
(30 May 2018)    
Initiation on 21 March 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of acrylic or modacrylic (HS 5501.30.00) 
from China; Germany; Korea, Rep. of and Thailand  Permanent Delegation of 
Turkey to the WTO  
(30 May 2018)    
Initiation on 27 April 2018 of SG investigation 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)  WTO document 
G/SG/N/6/TUR/24,  
3 May 2018    
Ukraine  
Initiation on 2 November 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of syringes (HS 9018.31.10) from 
China, India  and Turkey  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/UKR, 
19 March  2018   
Initiation on 3 November 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of kitchen salt, extra class  
(HS 2501.00.91) from Belarus  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/UKR, 
19 March  2018   
Initiation on 29 December 2017  of AD 
investigation on imports of electric incandescent 
lamps (HS 8539.22.90) from Belarus  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/UKR, 
19 March  2018   
United States of America  
Termination on 16 October 2017 (without 
measure) of AD investigation on imports of 
titanium  sponge (HS 8108.20.00) from Japan and 
Kazakhstan (initiated on 20 September 2017)  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/USA,  
21 March 2018    
Termination on 16 October 2017 (without 
measure) of CVD investigation on imports of 
titanium sponge (HS 8108.20.00) from Kazakhstan 
(initiated on 20 September 2017)  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/328/USA,  
22 February 2018    
Initiation on 23 October 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of polyethylene terephthalate "PET" 
resin (HS 3907.61.00; 3907.69.00) from Brazil; 
Indonesia; Korea, Rep. of; Pakistan and  
Chinese Taipei  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/USA,  
21 March 2018    
Initiation on 26 October 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of polytetrafluoroethylene "PTFE" resin  
(HS 3904.61.00; 3904.69.50) from China and 
India  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/USA,  
21 March 2018    
Initiation on 26 October 2017 of CVD investigation 
on imports of polytetrafluoroethylene "PTFE" resin  
(HS 3904.61.00; 3904.69.50) from India  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/328/USA,  
22 February 2018    
Initiation on 1 November 2017 of AD investigation 
on imports of forged steel fittings  (HS 7307.99.10; 
7307.99.30; 7307.99.50; 7307.92.30; 
7307.92.90; 7326.19.00) from China, Italy and 
Chinese Taipei  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/USA,  
21 March 2018    
Initiation on 1 November 2017 of CVD 
investigation on imports of forged steel fittings  (HS 
7307.99.10; 7307.99.30; 7307.99.50; 
7307.92.30; 7307.92.90; 7326.19.00) from China  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/328/USA,  
22 February 2018    
Initiation on 28 November 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of common alloy 
aluminium sheet (HS 7606.12.30; 7606.11.30; 
7606.11.60; 7606.12.60; 7606.91.30; 
7606.91.60; 7606.92.30; 7606.92.60; 
7607.11.90) from China  WTO document 
G/ADP/N/308/USA,  
21 March 2018    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 115 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 4 December 2017 of CVD 
investigation on imports of common alloy 
aluminium sheet (HS 7606.12.30; 7606.11.30; 
7606.11.60; 7606.12.60; 7606.91.30; 
7606.91.60; 7606.92.30; 7606.92.60; 
7607.11.90) from China  WTO document 
G/SCM/N/328/USA,  
22 Febr uary 2018    
Initiation on 20 December 2017 of AD 
investigation on imports of sodium gluconate, 
gluconic acid and derivative products (HS 
2918.16.10; 2918.16.50; 2932.20.50; 
2918.16.50; 3824.99.28; 3824.99.92) from China 
and France  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -427-829 and 
A-570-071 Federal 
Register/Vol 83 FR No. 516  
(4 January 2018)  Terminated on  
22 January 2018 on 
imports from Fr ance 
Initiation on 20 December 2017 of CVD 
investigation on imports of sodium gluconate, 
gluconic acid and derivative products  
(HS 2918.16.10; 2918.16.50; 2932.20.50; 
2918.16.50; 3824.99.28; 3824.99.92) from China  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration C -570-072 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 499 (4 January 2018)    
Initiation on 16 January 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of certain plastic decorative ribbon (HS 
3920.20.00; 3926.40.00; 3920.10.00; 
3920.30.00; 3920.43.50; 3920.49.00; 
3920.62.00; 3920.69.00; 3921.90.11; 
3921.90.15; 3921.90.19; 3921.90.40; 
3926.90.99 ; 5404.90.00; 9505.90.40; 
4601.99.90; 4602.90.00; 5609.00.30; 
5609.00.40; 6307.90.98) from China  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -570-075 
Federal Register/V ol 83 FR 
No. 3126 (23 January 2018)    
Initiation on 16 January 2018 of CVD investigation 
on imports of certain plastic decorative ribbon  
(HS 3920.20.00; 3926.40.00; 3920.10.00; 
3920.30.00; 3920.43.50; 3920.49.00; 
3920.62.00; 3920.69.00; 3921.90.11; 
3921.90.15; 3921.90.19; 3921.90.40; 
3926.90.99; 5404.90.00; 9505.90.40; 
4601.99.90; 4602.90.00; 5609.00.30; 
5609.00.40; 6307.90.98) from China  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration C -570-076 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 3114 (23 January 2018)    
Termination on 2 February 2018 of AD duties on 
imports of 100 - to 150 -seat large civil aircraft (HS 
8802.40.00) from Canada (investigation initiated 
on 26 May 2017 and provisional duty imposed on 
13 October 2017)  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018)    
Termination on 2 February 2018 of CVD duties on 
imports of 100 - to 150 -seat large civil aircraft  
(HS 8802.40.00) from Canada (investigation 
initiated on 26 May 2017 and provisional duty 
imposed on 2 October 2017)  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018)    
Initiation on 9 February 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of large diameter welded pipe  
(HS 7305.11.10; 7305.11.50; 7305.12.10; 
7305.12.50; 7305.19.10; 7305.19.50; 
7305.31.40; 7305.31.60; 7305.39.10; 
7305.39.50) from Canada; China; Greece; India; 
Korea, Rep. of and Turkey  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and  
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -122-863, 
TA-484-803, TA -533-881, A -
570-077, A -580-897 and A -
489-833 Federal Register/Vol 
83 FR No. 7154  
(20 February 2018)    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 116 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 9 February 2018 of CVD investigation 
on imports of large diameter welded pipe  
(HS 7305.11.10; 7305.11.50; 7305.12.10; 
7305.12.50; 7305.19.10; 7305.19.50; 
7305.31.40; 7305.31.60; 7305.39.10; 
7305.39.50) from China; India; Korea, Rep. of and 
Turkey   Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration C -533-882, C -
570-078, C -580-898 and  
C-489-834 Federal 
Register/Vol 83 FR No. 7148 
(20 February 2018)    
Initiation on 15 February 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of cast iron soil pipes (HS 7303.00.00) 
from China  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -570-079 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 8053 (23 February 2018)    
Initiation on 15 February 2018 of CVD 
investigation on imports of cast iron soil pipes  
(HS 7303.00.00) from China   Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of  Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration C -570-080 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 8047 (23 February 2018)    
Initiation on 20 February 2018 of AD investigation 
on imports of rubber bands (HS 4016.99.35; 
4016.99.60) from China, Sri Lanka and Thailand  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -570-069, A -
542-802 and A -549-835 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 8424 (27 February 2018)  Terminated on  
22 March 2018 on 
imports from Sri Lanka  
Initiation on 20 February 2018 of CVD 
investigation on imports of rubber bands  
(HS 4016.99.35; 4016.99.60) from China, 
Sri Lanka and Thailand  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration C -549-836,  
C-570-070 and C -542-803 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 8429 (27 February 2018)  Terminated on  
22 March 2018 on 
imports from Sri Lanka  
Initiation on 27 March 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of laminated woven sacks  
(HS 6305.33.00; 3923.21.00; 3923.29.00; 
3917.39.00; 3921.90.11; 3921.90.15; 
5903.90.25; 4601.99.05; 4601.99.90; 
4602.90.00) from Viet Nam  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -552-823 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 14257 (3 April 2018)    
Initiation on 27 March 2018 of CVD investigation 
on imports of laminated woven sacks (HS 
6305.33.00; 3923.21.00; 3923.29.00; 
3917.39.00; 3921.90.11; 3921.90.15; 
5903.90.25; 4601.99.05; 4601.99.90; 
4602.90.00) from Viet Nam  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration C -552-824 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 14253 (3 April 2018)    
Initiation on 16 April 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of certain steel wheels (HS 8708.70.45; 
8708.70.60; 8716.90.50; 4011.20.10; 
4011.20.50; 8708.99.48) from China  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -570-082 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 17798 (24 April 2018)    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 117 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Initiation on 16 April 2018 of CVD investigation on 
imports of certain steel wheels (HS 8708.70.45; 
8708.70.60; 8716.90.50; 4011.20.10; 
4011.20.50; 8708.99.48) from China  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of  Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration C -570-083 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 17794 (24 April 2018)    
Initiation on 17 April 2018 of AD investigation on 
imports of glycine (HS 2922.49.43; 2922.49.80) 
from India, Japan and Thailand  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -533-883,  
A-588-878 and A -549-837 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 17995 (25 April 2018)    
Initiation on 17 April 2018 of CVD investigation on 
imports of glycine (HS 2922.49.43; 2922.49.80) 
from China, India and Thailand  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administra tion C -533-884,  
C-570-081 and C -549-838 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 18002 (25 April 2018)    
Initiation on 7 May 2018 of AD 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) from China  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration A -570-084 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 22613 (16 May 2018)    
Initiation on 7 May 2018 of CVD 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) from China  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and 
Department of Commerce, 
International Trade 
Administration C -570-085 
Federal Register/Vol 83 FR 
No. 22618 (16 May 2018)    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 118 - 
 
  ANNEX 3  - OTHER TRADE -RELATED MEASURES1 
(MID-OCTOBER 2017 TO MID -MAY 2018)  
Confirmed information2 
Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Argentina  
Updated list of "criterion values" ( valores criterio 
de carácter preventivo ) for imports of certain 
sugar confectionery ( caramelos blandos )  
(NCM 1704.90.20), from specific origins  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and 
Administración Federal de 
Ingresos Públicos - Resolución 
General No. 4144 -E  
(12 October 2017)  Effective  
17 October 2017  
Temporary export ban on iron and steel ferrous 
waste and scrap (NCM 7204; 7404; 7602)  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and Decreto 
No. 848/2017  
(23 Octo ber 2017)  Effective  
27 October 2017, for 360 
days 
Amendments introduced to the list of products 
requiring non -automatic import licensing 
requirements  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and  Resoluc ión 
Secretaría de Comercio 
Nos. 898/2017  
(24 November 2017),  
E-8/2018 (8 January 2018) 
and 170/2018  
(27 March 2018)  Effective  
1 December 2017  
Updated list of "criterion values" ( valores criterio 
de carácter preventivo ) for imports of boilers  
(NCM 8403.10.10), from specific origins  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and 
Administración Federal de 
Ingresos Públicos - Resolución 
General No. 4230  
(23 April 2018)  Effective 26 April 2018  
Updated list of "criterion values" ( valores criterio 
de carácter preventivo ) for imports of yarn of 
polypropylene, single, untwisted or with a twist 
not exceeding 50 turns per m; woven fabrics 
obtained from strip or the like; flexible 
intermediate bulk containers of man -made textile 
materials; sacks (bags) of polyethylene or 
polypropylene strip or the like  (NCM 5402.48.00; 
5407.20.00; 6305.32.00; 6305.33.90), from 
specific origins  Permanent Delegation of 
Argentina to the WTO 
(28 May 2018) and 
Administración Federal de 
Ingresos Públicos - Resolución 
General No. 4231  
(23 April 2018)  Effective 26 April 2018  
Brazil  
Elimination of the temporary reduction of import 
tariffs (to 2%) on certain isocyanates  
(NCM 2929.10.30), under an import quota of 
1,000 tonnes (originally effective 23 January 2017 
to 22 January 2018)  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018) and Camex 
Resolution No. 94/2017  
(13 December 2017)  Eliminated on  
13 December 2017  
                                                
1 The inclusion of any measure in this Annex implies no judgement by the WTO Secretariat on whether 
or not such measure, or its intent, is protectio nist in nature. Moreover, nothing in the Annex implies any 
judgement, either direct or indirect, on the consistency of any measure referred to with the provisions of any 
WTO agreement.  
2 This Section includes information which has either been provided by t he Member concerned or has 
been confirmed at the request of the Secretariat.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 119 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Increase of import tariffs (from 2% to 14%) on 
industrial fatty alcohols ( láurico)   
(NCM 3823.70.20) and ácido caprílico   
(NCM 3823.19.10); (from zero to 14%) on 
sinkers, needles and other articles used in forming 
stitches  (NCM 8448.51.10) (effective  
1 January 2018); (from 2% to 12%) on certain 
acyclic monoamines and their derivatives  
(NCM 2921.19.94) (effective 2 March 2018); and 
(to 25%) on onions and shallots  
(NCM 0703.10.19) (effective 22 December 2017 to 
31 December 2018)  Permanent Delegation of 
Brazil to the WTO  
(25 May 2018), and Camex 
Resolution Nos. 54/2017  
(5 July 2017)  95/2017  
(19 December 2017), 98 /2017 
(21 December 2017) and 
11/2018 (28 February 2018)  Effective: see individual 
dates in measure  
China  
The tariff reduction obligation for 128 items 
imported from the United States was suspended 
on 2 April 2018, and the tariff was hereafter 
imposed on the basis of the current tariff rate 
(15% on edible fruits and nuts; wine of fresh 
grapes; undenatured ethy l alcohol; ginseng roots; 
iron or steel seamless tubes, pipes and hollow 
profiles; and 25% on pork products; and 
aluminium waste and scrap)  Permanent Delegation of 
China to the WTO 
(28 May 2018)  Effective 2 April 2018  
Decrease of VAT rebate rates (from 17% to 16% 
and from 11% to 10%) on exports of certain 
products  Permanent Delegation of 
China to the WTO 
(28 May 2018)  Effective 1 May 2018  
Colombia  
Amendments introduced to import tariffs on 
articles of apparel and clothing accessories  
(HS 61; 62; 64). Ad valorem tariff (40%) on 
apparel and clothing accessories for FOB value 
declared of US$10/kg or less. For waterproof 
footwear; certain footwear with  outer soles and 
uppers of rubber or plastic; and footwear with 
outer soles of rubber, plastic, leather or 
composition leather and uppers of textile materials 
(HS 6401; 6402; 6404), ad valorem  tariff (35%) 
for FOB value declared of US$6/pair or less. For 
"other footwear" (HS 6405), ad valorem tariff 
(35%) for FOB value declared of US$7/pair or less. 
For footwear with outer soles of rubber, plastic, 
leather or composition leather and uppers of 
leather (HS 6403), ad valorem  tariff (35%) for 
FOB value declared  of US$10/pair or less  Permanent Delegation of 
Colombia to the WTO 
(24 April 2018) and Decreto 
No. 1786 Ministerio de 
Comercio, Industria y Turismo 
(2 November 2017)  Effective  
2 November 2017  
Introduction of specific import tariffs for certain 
textiles and textile products to avoid customs 
fraud and the use of arbitrary customs value  
(HS Chapter 52; 54; 55; 56; 58; 59; 60; 61; 62; 
63; 64)  Permanent Delegation of 
Colombia to the WTO 
(24 April 2018) and Decreto 
No. 2218 Ministerio de 
Hacienda y Crédito Público  
(27 December 2017)  Effective  
27 December 2017  
India  
Increase of import tariffs (to 50%) on peas ( pisum 
sativum ) (HS 0713.10.00) (effective 8 November 
2017) and (to 45%) on soya beans, whether or 
not broken (HS 1201.10.00; 1201.90.00) 
(effective 17 November 2017)  Notification Nos. 84/2017 -
Customs - Ministry of Finance 
(8 November 2017) and 
88/2017 -Customs - Minist ry of 
Finance (17 November 2017)  Effective: see individual 
dates in measure  
Increase of import tariffs (from 30% to 40%) on 
chickpeas ( garbanzos ) (HS 0713.20.00) (effective 
6 February 2018). On 1 March 2018, further 
increase of import tariffs (from 40% to 60%)  Notification Nos. 25/2018 -
Customs (6 February 2018) 
and 28/2018 -Customs  
(1 March 2018) - Ministry of 
Finance (Department of 
Revenue)  Effective: see individual 
dates in measure  
On 6 February 2018, further increase of import 
tariffs (from 50% to 100%) on raw sugar and 
refined or white sugar (raw sugar if imported by 
bulk consumer) (HS 1701). On 20 March 2018, 
import tariffs eliminated  Notification Nos. 24/2018 -
Customs (6 February 2018) 
and 30/2018 (20 March 2018) 
- Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue)    WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 120 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Increase of import tariffs (from 10% to 15%) on 
motor cycles (including mopeds) and cycles fitted 
with an auxiliary motor, wit h or without side cars, 
and side cars, new, which have not been 
registered anywhere prior to importation - (1) as a 
completely knocked down (CKD) kit containing all 
the necessary components, parts or sub -
assemblies for assembling a complete vehicle 
with: ( a) engine, gearbox and transmission 
mechanism not in a pre -assembled condition  
(HS 8711)  Notification No. 26/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue)  
(12 February 2018)  Effective  
12 February 2018  
Increase of import tariffs (from 10% to 15%) on 
certain parts, sub -parts or accessories of cellular 
mobile phones (e.g. heat dissipation sticker; 
battery cover; sticker -battery slot; protective film 
for main lens; Mylar for LDC FPC; film -front flash 
(HS 39 19.90.90); battery cover; front cover; front 
cover (with zinc casting); middle cover; back 
cover; main lens; camera lens (HS 3920.99.99); 
PU case; sealing gasket (HS 3926.90.91), sealing 
gaskets/cases from PE, PP, EPS, PC and all other 
individual polymers or combination/combination of 
polymers; SIM sockets/other mechanical items 
(plastic); conductive cloth; LCD conductive foam; 
LCD foam; and BT foam (HS 3926.90.99)  Notification No. 22/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue)  
(2 February 2018) and 
Finance Bill 2018  
(14 March 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  
Increase of import tariffs (from 10% to 20%) on 
kites (HS 4823.90.90); (from 5% to 7.5%) on 
refractory bricks, blocks, tiles and similar 
refractory ceramic constructional goods (HS 
6902); and on other refractory ceramic goods 
(e.g. retorts, crucibles, muffles, nozzles, plugs, 
supports, cupels, tubes, pipes, sheaths and rods) 
other than those of siliceous fossil metals or of 
similar siliceous earths (HS 6903); (from zero to 
5%) on pre form of silica for use in the 
manufacture of telecommunication garde optical 
fibres or optical fibre cables (HS Chapter 70); 
(from 7.5% -10% to 15%) on USB cables of 
cellular mobile phones (HS 8544) and on 
LCD/LED/OLED panels of television and certain 
parts (HS 8529); and (from 30% to 50%) on 
certain food preparations (excluding compound 
alcoholic preparations of a kind used for the 
manufacture of beverages, of an alcoholic strength 
exceeding 0.5% by volume, determined at a 
temperature of 20° centigrade) (HS  2106.90)   Notification No. 6/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue)  
(2 February 2018) and 
Finance Bill 2018  
(14 March 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  
Increase of import tariffs (from zero to 10%) on 
11 specified parts used in the manufacture of 
liquid crystal display and light emitting diode TV 
panels of HS 8529 (e.g. open cell (15.6'' and 
above), plate diffuser, film diffuser, reflector 
sheet, film -top, film -middle, film -bottom, bar led, 
bezel, back cover sheet, and black light unit 
modules (HS 8529); and on cushions/gaskets of 
liquid crystal display and light emiting diode TV 
panels (HS 4016)  Notification No. 6/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue)  
(2 February 2018) and  
Finance Bill 2018  
(14 March 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 121 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Increase of import tariffs (from 10% to 20%) on 
footwear (HS 6401; 6402; 6403; 6404; 6405) and 
on certain toys, games and sport requisites  
(HS 9503; 9504; 9505.90.10; 9506; 9507; 9508); 
and (from 10% to 15%) on certain footwear with 
uppers of leather or composition leather, and with 
uppers of textiles materials (HS 6406); on key 
pads, and GSM antennas of any technology  
(HS 8517.70.90); on ce rtain clocks and watches 
(HS 9101; 9102; 9103; 9105); on microphone 
rubber cases, sensor rubber cases, sealing 
gaskets, and silicone for use in the manufacture of 
cellular mobile phones (HS 4016.99.90); and on 
truck and bus radial tyres (HS 4011.20.10); an d 
(from 15% to 20%) on cellular mobile phones  
(HS 8517.12.10; 8517.12.90)  Indian Budget 2018 -19, 
Finance Bill 2018, Clause 
101(a) (14 March 2018)  Effective February 2018  
Increase of import tariffs (from 10% to 15%) on 
certain parts and accessories for cellular mobile 
phones: screws (HS 7318.15.00); SIM 
sockets/other mechanical items (metal)  
(HS 7326.90.99); chargers or adapters  
(HS 8504.40 except HS 8504.40.21); cells or  
batteries (HS 8506 except HS 8506.90.00); 
battery packs (other than lithium -ion batteries) 
(HS 8507 except 8507.90); microphones, wired 
headsets and receivers (HS 8518); and side key 
(HS 8538.90.00); and (from 10% to 20%) on 
lithium -ion batteries (8507.60 .00) and wrist 
wearable devices "smart watches"  
(HS 8517.62.90)  Notification No. 22/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue)  
(2 February 2018) and 
Finance Bill 2018  
(14 March 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  
Increase of import tariffs  (from 7.5% to 15%) on 
spark ignition engines and compression ignition 
engines (HS 8407; 8408) of motor vehicles  falling 
under HS 8702; 8703; 8704; 8711; on parts 
suitable for use (HS 8409) principally with the 
engines of HS 8407; 8408, of a kind used in m otor 
vehicles falling under HS 8702; 8704, motor cars 
falling under HS 8703, or motor cycles falling 
under HS 8711; on crank shafts (HS 8483.10.91; 
8483.10.92) for engines falling under HS 8407 and 
8408 and used in motor vehicles falling under  
HS 8702; 87 03; 8704; 8711; and on electrical 
ignition or starting equipment and cut -outs (HS 
8511) of motor vehicles falling under HS 8702; 
8703; 8704; 8711  Notification No. 6/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue)  
(2 February 2018) and 
Finance B ill 2018  
(14 March 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  
Elimination of the exemption of customs duties on 
printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) and 
moulded plastics for the manufacture of chargers 
or adapters of cellular mobile phones. Basic 
customs tariff (BCD) set at 10%  Notification No. 22/2018 -
Customs - Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue)  
(2 February 2018) and 
Finance Bill 2018  
(14 March 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  
Imposition of "Social Welfare Surcharge" (10%) on 
imported goods  Permanent  Delegation of India 
to the WTO (5 June 2018)  Effective 2 February 2018  
Imposition of minimum import price "MIP" on 
peppers resulting in an import ban on imports if 
their c.i.f. MIP is below Rs 500/kg (imports with a 
c.i.f. MIP of Rs 500/kg or above are f ree)  
(HS 0904)  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018) and 
Notification No. 53/2015 -
2020, Ministry of Commerce 
and Industry - Directorate 
General of Foreign Trade  
(21 March 2018)  Effective 21 March 2018  
Import ban on seal skins  
(HS Chapters 41; 42; 43)  Permanent Delegation of India 
to the WTO (9 May 2018) and 
Notification No. 9/2015 -2020, 
Ministry of Commerce and 
Industry - Directorate General 
of Foreign Trade  
(28 March 2018)  Effective 28 March 2018  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 122 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Increase of tariff (from zero to 10%) on camera 
modules for use in the manufacture of cellular 
mobile phones; connectors for use in manufacture 
of cellular mobile phones; and populated, loaded 
or stuffed printed circuit boards (HS 8517; 8525; 
8529)  Notifi cation Nos. 36/2018 and 
37/2018 - Customs  
(2 April 2018) - Ministry of 
Finance (Department of 
Revenue)  Effective 2 April 2018  
Increase of import tariffs (from 30% to 40%) on 
whey and modified whey, whether or not 
concentrated or containing added sugar or other 
sweetening matter (HS 0404) (whey, 
concentrated, evaporated or condensed, liquid or 
semi-solid exempted)  Notification No s. 43/2018 -
Customs and 44/2018 -
Customs (10 April 2018) - 
Ministry of Finance 
(Department of Revenue)  Effective 10 April 2018  
Indonesia  
Imposition of import tariffs on certain digital goods  Permanent Delegation of  
Indonesia to the WTO  
(25 April 2018)    
Iraq, Rep. of  
Reduction of the customs duty rates to four levels 
(0.5%, 10%, 15% and 30%), and adoption of the 
Harmonized System Nomenclature (21 
Categories), resulting in the increase of import 
tariffs for certain products  Permanent Delegation of the 
Republic of Iraq  
(24 April 2018)  Effective 1 January 2018  
Extension of the temporary import ban on certain 
vegetables and fruits, e.g. potatoes, tomatoes, 
lettuces, carrots, and melons (to protect local 
production) (HS 0701; 0702; 0705; 0706; 0807)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Republic of Iraq  
(24 April 2018)    
Malaysia  
Amendments introduced to the list of prohibited 
export products, resulting in the addition of palm 
oil and its fractions, whether or not refined, but 
not chemically modified (3 tariff lines)  
(HS 1511.90.31; 1511.90.32; 1511.90.41)  Permanent Delegation of 
Malaysia to the WTO  
(5 June 2018)  Effective  
20 October 2017  
Amendments introduced to the list of prohibited 
import products, resulting in the addition of certain 
items (e.g. preparations of a kind used in animal 
feed; certain antibiotics; and certain medications) 
(7 tariff lines) (HS 2309; 2941; 3003; 3004; 
2852; 2933)  Permanent Delegation of 
Malaysia to the WTO  
(5 June 2018)  Effective  
23 February 2018  
Mexico  
Further extension of the temporary increase of 
import tariffs (from zero to 15%) on 97 iron and 
steel tariff lines (HS Chapter 72) (originally 
implemented on 7 October 2015 for 180 days, 
extended on 4 April 2016  for an additional period 
of 180 days, and extended again on 6 April 2017 
for 180 days)  Permanent Delegation of 
Mexico to the WTO 
(30 May 2018); Diario Oficial 
de la Federación (Official 
Journal), 17 October 2017; 
and WTO document 
WT/TPR/OV/20,  
16 November 2017  On 17 October 2017, the 
measure was again 
extended for 180 days. 
On 16 April 2018, the 
measure was terminated  
Establishment of a list of petroleum and oil 
products (HS 2709; 2710; 2711) subject to 
mandatory prior import authorization by the 
Ministry of Energy  Permanent Delegation of 
Mexico to the WTO 
(30 May 2018)  Effective  
5 December 2017  
Establishment of a list of petroleum and oil 
products (HS 2709; 2710; 2711) subject to 
mandatory prior export authorization by the 
Ministry of Energy  Permanent Delegation of 
Mexico to the WTO 
(30 May 2018)  Effective  
5 December 2017  
New Zealand  
Amendments 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 3909; 8415; 8418; 8476; 8479; 8479; 8609; 
8704; 8716; 8901; 8902)  New Zealand - Climate 
Change (Synthetic 
Greenhouse Gas Levies) 
Regulation 2013 (SR 2013/46)  Effective 1 January 2018  
Panama  
Implementation of the Central American Import 
Tariff (for 2,200 tariffs lines), resulting in the 
increase of tariffs for certain products  Permanent Delegation of 
Panama to the WTO  
(24 April 2018)  Effective 1 March 2018  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 123 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Russian Federation  
Government Resolution No. 1469 established 
restrictions and conditions of access of bare metal 
stents for coronary arteries, stents for coronary 
arteries, releasing drugs, balloon standard 
catheters for coronary angioplasty, and aspirating 
catheters for embolectomies , originating from 
foreign states, for the purpose of procurement for 
state and municipal needs  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian Federation to the 
WTO (30 May 2018)  Effective  
4 December 2017 to  
1 July 2018  
Introduction of temporary export duties (from zero 
to 7.5%) on waste and scrap of tungsten 
(wolfram) and waste and scrap of cermets  
(HS 8101.97.00; 8113.00.40)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian Federation to the 
WTO (30 May 2018)  Effective  
30 December  2017 to  
30 December 2018  
Eurasian Economic Union  
Temporary increase of import tariffs (from zero to 
5%) on injection -moulding machines with a 
clamping force of not more than 2,200 tonnes 
(22,000 kN) and an injection volume of not more 
than 28,200 kN (HS 8477.10.00)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian Fe deration to the 
WTO (30 May 2018)  Effective  
15 December 2017 to  
15 December 2019  
Elimination of the temporary reduction of import 
tariffs (from 13% to 5%) on Brussels sprouts  
(HS 0704); and (from 5% to zero) on nuts, dates, 
and dried grapes (HS 0802; 0804; 0806) 
(originally implemented on 22 April 2016)  Permanent Delegation of the 
Russian Federation to the 
WTO (30 May 2018)  Effective 1 February 2018  
SACU - Southern African Customs Union  
(Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia and South Africa)  
Increase of import tariffs (from 5% to 15%) on 
certain aluminium bars, rods and profiles  
(HS 7604.21.15; 7604.29.15; 7604.29.65) 
(effective 17 November 2017); and (from zero to 
20%) on pre -fabricated buildings of iron or steel  
(HS 9406.90.10; 9406.90.90) (effective  
17 November 2017) and self adhesive tapes  
(HS 3919.10.41; 3919.10.43) (effective  
29 December 2017). Imports from the European 
Union, EFTA and Southern African Development 
Community (SADC) members exempted  Permanent Delegation of 
South Africa to the WTO  
(28 May 2018), International 
Trade Administration 
Commission Notice Nos. R. 
1282 and R. 1283 - 
Government Gazette No. 
41257 (17 November 2017) 
and R. 150 - Government 
Gazette No. 41363  
(29 December 2017)  Effective: see individual 
dates in measure  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 124 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Increase of import excise duties (from 5% to 7%) 
on certain perfumes and toilet waters; beauty or 
make up preparations; and certain motorcycles; 
(from 7% to 9%) on machines for the reception, 
conversion and transmi ssion of voice, image or 
other data; certain perfumes and toilet waters; 
fireworks; certain furskin articles; machinery and 
mechanical appliances; electrical machinery and 
equipment; water scooters; and arms, toys and 
games (HS 8517.62.20; 8517.69.10; 3303 .00.90; 
3304.10.90; 3304.20.90; 3304.30.90; 
3304.91.90; 3304.99.90; 3604.10; 4303.10; 
4304.00.10; 8415.10.10; 8415.10.20; 
8415.81.10; 8415.82.10; 8415.83.10; 
8415.90.05; 8517.11; 8517.12.10; 8518.21; 
8518.22; 8518.29; 8518.40; 8518.50; 
8519.81.90; 8519.89. 90; 8521.90.90; 
8525.80.90; 8527.13.10; 8527.19.10; 8527.21; 
8527.29; 8527.91.10; 8527.92.10; 8527.99.10; 
8528.49.10; 8528.49.90; 8528.52.20; 
8528.52.90; 8528.59.15; 8528.59.90; 
8528.69.90; 8528.71.10; 8528.71.90; 
8528.72.20; 8528.72.50; 8528.72.90; 
8528.7 3.20; 8528.73.50; 8528.73.90; 
8711.20.90; 8711.30; 8711.40; 8711.50; 
8711.90.20; 8711.90.30; 8903.99.10; 
9302.00.10; 9302.00.25; 9302.00.29; 
9302.00.39; 9303.10; 9303.20.11; 9303.20.12; 
9303.20.13; 9303.20.20; 9303.30.10; 
9303.30.20; 9303.30.90; 9304.00.20 ; 
9504.30.10; 9504.50.10; 9506.32); and (from 
25% to 30%) on motor vehicles (HS Chapter 87)   Permanent Delegation of 
South Africa to the WTO  
(28 May 2018) and 
International Trade 
Administration Commission 
Notice No. R. 347  - 
Government Gazette 
No. 41515 (23 March 2018)  Effective 23 March 2018  
Switzerland  
Decrease of the import quota (by 1,000 tonnes to 
16,307 tonnes) on eggs for further processing  
(HS 0407.21.10; 0407.29.10; 0407.90.10)  Permanent Delegation of 
Switzerland to the WTO  
(14 May 2018)  Effective 1 January 2018  
Turkey  
Increase of import tariffs on certain products; (to 
5%) on paracetamol; (from 2.3% to 20%) on hair 
clippers and other articles of base metal cutlery; 
(to 25%) on coated electrodes of base metals such 
as nickel and others for electric arc -welding; (to 
14.9%) on other kind of centrifugal pumps; (from 
6% to 7.6%) on works trucks fitted with mechanic 
lifting equipment; (to 20%) on pressure -reducing 
valves; valves fo r oleohydraulic or pneumatic 
transmission; and check "non return" valves 
composed of cast iron or steel; safety or relief 
valves; appliances for pipes, boiler shells, tanks, 
vats or the like (excluding pressure -reducing 
valves, valves for the control of pn eumatic power 
transmission, check "non -return" valves and safety 
or relief valves) and parts of valves; (to 9.3%) on 
AC motors, single -phase, of an output > 7,5 kW; 
(to 11.3%) and other AC motors, multi -phase, of 
an output > 750 W but <= 75 kW; (to 16.8%) on 
certain single axle tractors' pedestrian controlled 
agricultural tractors and similar tractors for 
industry (excluding tractor units for articulated 
lorries); (to 13.3%) on hydraulic steering boxes; 
(to 20%) on syringes, with or without needles, 
used in  medical, surgical, dental or veterinary 
sciences; (to 23.4%) on artists' brushes and 
writing brushes; (to 20%) on vacuum flasks and 
other vacuum vessels, and parts thereof 
(excluding glass inners) (HS Chapters 82; 83; 84; 
85; 87; 90; 96)  Permanent Delegat ion of 
Turkey to the WTO  
(30 May 2018)  Effective 28 March 2018  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 125 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
United States of America  
Imposition of an additional 25% ad valorem  rate 
of duty on certain steel articles (HS Chapters 72 
and 73) for national security reasons. See 
Presidential Proclamations for country specific 
exemptions  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and Presidential 
Proclamation o n adjusting 
imports of steel into the 
United States (8,  
22 March 2018, 30 April 2018, 
31 May 2018). Viewed at: 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/
presidential -
actions/presidential -
proclamation -adjusting -
imports -steel-united -states/ 
and 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/
presidential -
actions/presidential -
proclamation -adjusting -
imports -steel-united -states -2/ 
and 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/
presidential -
actions/presidential -
proclamation -adjusting -
imports -steel-united -states -3/ 
and 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/
presidential -
actions/presidential -
proclamation -adjusting -
imports -steel-united -states -4/  Effective 23 March 2018. 
See Presidential 
Proclamations for country 
specific exemptions  
Imposition of an 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 cast ings and forgings) for national 
security reasons. See Presidential Proclamations 
for country specific exemptions  Permanent Delegation of the 
United States to the WTO 
(4 June 2018) and Presidential 
Proclamation on adjusting 
imports of aluminium  into the 
United States (8 and  
22 March 2018, 30 April 2018, 
31 May 2018). Viewed at: 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/
presidential -
actions/presidential -
proclamation -adjusting -
imports -aluminum -united -
states/ and 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/
presidential -
actions/presidential -
proclamation -adjusting -
imports -aluminum -united -
states -2/ and 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/
presidential -
actions/presidential -
proclamation -adjusting -
imports -aluminum -united -
states -3/ and 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/
presidential -
actions/presidential -
proclamation -adjusting -
imports -aluminum -united -
states -4/ Effective 23 March 2018. 
See Presidential 
Proclamations for country 
specific exemptions  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 126 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Venezuela (Bolivarian Rep. of)  
Temporary export ban on vegetable products and 
prepared foodstuffs, until exporters settle their 
foreign currency originating from export 
operations with the financial system  Resolución - Vicepresidencia 
Sectorial de Economía, 
Jefatura del Comando para el 
Abastecimiento Soberano, 
Ministerios del Poder Popular 
para la Agricultura Productiva 
y Tierras, de Pesca y 
Acuicultura y para la 
Alimentación  
(17 January 2018)  Effective  
19 January 2018 for six 
months  
 
Recorded, but non -confirmed information3 
Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Algeria  
Extension of the list of imported products subject 
to the Internal Consumption Tax (30%) ( Taxe 
Intérieure de Consommation "TIC ") (e.g. salmon, 
cashew nuts, almonds, grapes, prunes, peppers, 
sugar confectionery, certain miscellaneous edible 
preparations, modems and decoders, burglar or 
fire alarms and similar apparatus, automatic data 
processing machines, yachts and other vessels for 
pleasure or sport) (HS Chapters 03; 08; 09; 17; 
21; 84; 85)  Press reports referring to 
Communiqué relatif aux 
Mécanismes d'Encadrement 
des Opérations d'Importation 
de Marchandises - Ministère 
du Commerce  Effective  
1 January 2018  
Increase of import tariffs on certain finished goods 
(129 HS tariff lines ), e.g. sunflower seeds, 
whether broken or not; certain articles of plastic;  
industrial furnaces; filtering or purifying machinery 
and apparatus; overhead travelling cranes, 
transporter cranes, gantry cranes, bridge cranes, 
mobile lifting frames and straddle carriers; printing 
machinery; automatic data processing machines 
and units thereof; taps, cocks, valves and similar 
appliances for pipes, boiler shells, tanks, vats or 
the like, including pressure -reducing valves and 
thermostatically controlled valves;  modems;  
telephone sets;  certain apparatus for 
communication in a wired or wireless network; 
cards incorporating a magnetic strip; smart -cards; 
electrical apparatus for switching or protecting 
electrica l circuits; insulated wire and cables 
(including co -axial cables);  bodies for certain 
vehicles; trailers and semi -trailers, other vehicles, 
not mechanically propelled, and parts thereof; 
prepared or preserved ground -nuts; jams and 
marmalades; liquid dielec tric transformers; water; 
primary cells and primary batteries; and beer 
made from malt (HS Chapters 12; 20; 21; 22; 39; 
84; 85; 87)  Press reports referring to 
Communiqué relatif aux 
Mécanismes d'Encadrement 
des Opérations d'Importation 
de Marchandises - Ministère 
du Commerce  Effective  
1 January 2018  
Temporary import ban on 45 products, e.g. dairy 
produce, edible fruits and nuts (except bananas), 
vegetables, meats, corn derivatives, meat and fish 
preparations, glucose syrup, sugar and sugar 
confectionery,  pasta, preparations of cereals, 
preserved vegetables, miscellaneous edible 
preparations, mineral waters, tanning or dyeing 
extracts, paper and paper board, plastics and 
articles thereof, carpets, marble, granite, 
ceramics, glass and glassware, certain veh icles, 
furniture, cement, electrical appliances and certain 
machinery  Press reports referring to 
Communiqué relatif aux 
Mécanismes d'Encadrement 
des Opérations d'Importation 
de Marchandises - Ministère 
du Commerce  Effective  
1 January 2018  
                                                
3 This Section includes information which has been obtained from public sources but has not yet been 
confirmed by the delegation concerned.  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 127 - 
 
  Measure  Source/Date  Status  
Imposition of import quota on certain vehicles, 
e.g. tractors, motor vehicles for the transport of 10 
or more persons, motor cars, motor vehicles for 
the transport of goods, and special purpose motor 
vehicles (semi -knocked -down "SKD" excepted) 
(HS 8701; 8702; 8703; 8704 ; 8705)  Press reports referring to 
Communiqué relatif aux 
Mécanismes d'Encadrement 
des Opérations d'Importation 
de Marchandises - Ministère 
du Commerce  Effective  
1 January 2018  
Angola  
Temporary export ban on scraps  Press reports referring to 
Ordinance  76/18, Ministry of 
Industry (March 2018)    
Russian Federation  
Imposition of certain counter -restrictive measures 
to maintain the volume of metallurgical production  World Service Wire  
(13 April 2018)    
Rwanda  
Temporary import ban on second hand garments  The Guardian  
(29 December 2017)  Effective January 2018  
Suriname  
Increase of import tariffs (from 20% to 40%) on 
poultry products  Press reports    
Tunisia  
Increase of import tariffs (to 20%) on IT products   Agence Ecofin  
(21 September 2017)  Effective  
1 January 2018  
Turkey  
Increase of import tariffs on plywood, veneered 
panels and similar laminated wood (HS 4412)  Press reports referring to 
Official Gazette 2018/11481  Effective March 2018  
Viet Nam  
Revised import requirements on used vehicles, 
establishing warranty period and issuing import 
business licences only to companies  Bangkok Post (28 April 2018) 
referring to Decree No. 116  Effective January 2018  
Zimbabwe  
Temporary import ban on fruits and  vegetables   Reuters (October 2017)  Effective October 2017    
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 128 - ANNEX 4 - MEASURES AFFECTING T RADE IN SERVICES1 
(MID-OCTOBER 2017 to MID -MAY 2018)  
Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
MEASURES AFFECTING VARIOUS SECTORS  
Angola  
Angola created a new single agency to 
facilitate private investment in the country 
and to promote exports. The Private 
Investment and Export Promotion Agency 
(AIPEX) replaces the Technical Unit for 
Private Investment (UTIP), the Investment 
Promotion Agency (Apiex) and the Technical 
Units to Support Private Investment 
(UTAIP).  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Presidential Decree no. 81/18  
 
Viewed at:  
https://macauhub.com.mo/2018/03/14/
pt-agencia -de-angola -para-o-
investimento -privado -e-promocao -das-
exportacoes -formalmente -criada/   
 
 3 March 2018   
Argentina  
The Government adopted a series of 
measures simplifying administrative 
procedures in order to encourage private 
investment.  Among changes, the Decree 
eliminates the Registro Industrial de la 
Nación , which required the registration of 
all companies, a process lasting eight 
months.   Mode 3  All sectors  Decreto 27/2018  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.boletinoficial.gob.ar/#!Detal
leNormaBusquedaAvanzada/177429/201
80111  Published in the 
Official Gazett e on 
11 January 2018   YES 
Botswana  
Botswana established a new "One Stop 
Service Centre" aiming to facilitate 
investment by minimizing inconveniences 
and impediments, and improving the ease 
of doing business.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  
 Viewed at:  
http://www.bitc.co.bw/botswana -
launches -one-stop-service -centre   
 
 Effective  
26 October 2017   
                                                
1 The inclusion of any measure in this Annex implies no judgement by the WTO Secretariat on whether or not such 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 re ferred to with  the provisions of any WTO 
agreement.    
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 129 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
China  
The State Council published a new Circular 
to facilitate implementation of reforms 
within the country's free trade zones.  
Changes include, but are not limited to the 
following:  
- foreign -invested enterprises are allowed 
to engage in printing activities;  
- foreign investors are allowed to establish 
wholly -foreign owned air transpo rt sales 
agencies and wholly -owned enterprises to 
operate freight storage, ground services,  
in-flight meals and car parks;  
- wholly -foreign owned enterprises are 
allowed to operate entertainment venues;   
- joint Chinese -foreign travel agencies that 
meet re quired conditions are permitted to 
provide abroad travel services (except for 
travels in Chinese Taipei);  
- With respect to direct selling, the 
requirement that foreign investors have at 
least 3 years of prior experience is 
suspended;  
- foreign investors a re permitted to 
establish wholly foreign -owned enterprises 
to conduct construction and operation of 
petrol stations;   
- foreign investors are permitted to 
establish wholly foreign -owned enterprises 
to undertake international shipping, 
international ship ma nagement, 
international marine cargo handling, and  
international maritime container freight 
station and container yard businesses;  
- foreign investors are allowed to establish 
equity joint ventures or cooperative joint 
ventures to undertake international 
shipping agency business, with the  
proportion of foreign shareholding relaxed 
to 51%.  
 Mode 3  Various sectors  Decision on Temporarily Adjusting 
Relevant Administrative Regulations, 
State Council Documents and 
Department Rules Approved by the State 
Council w ithin FTZs (State Council 
Circular No. 57, 2017)  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.china -
briefing.com/news/2018/02/08/china -
eases -foreign -investment -restrictions -
free-trade -zones.html  9 January 2018  YES   
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 130 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
India  
The Union Cabinet approved changes to 
India's FDI policy.  Among the modifications, 
FDI in single brand retailing is permitted up 
to 100% under the automatic route.  
Previously, FDI above 49% required 
government approval.  Under the new 
measure, a foreign single brand retailer 
can, for the first 5 years, satisfy the 
obligation to source 30% of its purchases 
from India through incremental sourcing of 
goods from India by its foreign oper ations.2 
After 5 years, the retailer will be required to 
meet the 30% sourcing norms directly 
towards its Indian operation on an annual 
basis.  Further, foreign airlines are allowed 
to invest up to 49% in Air India under the 
approval route, subject to certa in 
conditions.  Amendments also clarify that 
real estate broker services do not amount 
to real estate business and are therefore 
eligible for 100% FDI under the automatic 
route.  
 Mode 3  Various sectors  
 
 Amendments to the Consolidated FDI 
Policy  
 
Viewed at:  
http://dipp.nic.in/policies -rules-and-
acts/press -notes -fdi-circular  
 
 Approved on  
10 January 2018   
Indonesia  
The new regulation provides that only 
Indonesian -flagged vessels can be used for 
exports of coal and crude palm oil, and for 
imports of rice and goods of government 
procurement.  Further, such transport can 
only be insured by national insurance 
companies.  Foreign vessels and insurance 
services may be used if domestic supply is 
insufficient.  
 Modes 1 -3 Maritime transport 
services and 
insurance services  Trade Ministry Regulation No. 82/2017 
on the Terms of Use of National Shipping 
and Insurance Companies for the Export 
and Import of Certain Goods  
 
 Effective  
31 October 2017  YES 
                                                
2 For this purpose, incremental sourcing has been defined to mean the increase in terms of value of such global sourcing from I ndia for that single brand in a 
particular financial year from India over the preceding financial year, by the non -resident entitie s undertaking single brand retail trading, either directly or through their 
group companies.   
   
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 131 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Italy  
The new measure extends the 
government's "golden powers", which allow 
to block and impose conditions on 
takeovers by non -EU companies, to high 
technology sectors in cases of threats to 
national security and public order, subject 
to prior adoption of administrative 
regulations.  Sectors concerned can now 
include, if individuated by a regulation:  
critical or sensitive infrastructure such as 
storage and management of data; critical 
technology, including robotics and artificial 
intelligence; security of supply of critical 
inputs; access to sensitive information or 
ability to control sensitive information.  
 Mode 3  Various sectors  Legislative Decree no. 148/2017  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.gazzettaufficiale.it/eli/id/201
7/12/05/17A08254/SG   Approved on  
4 December 2017  
 YES 
Lao People's Democratic Republic  
The government abolished the minimum 
registered capital requirements for foreign 
investors, contained in the Law on 
Investment Promotion of 2009.  The 
previous requirement that foreign investors 
invest at least USD 120'000 was abolished 
for foreign investors seeking to register a 
company in the country, except where such 
minimum requirements are imposed 
through se ctor-specific regulations.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  
 Notification No. 2633/Cabinet/MOIC  7 November 2017   
Myanmar  
The new Companies Law adopted by the 
government will allow companies that have 
up to 35% of their shares held by foreign 
nationals to be considered a domestic 
company under the law.  This will permit 
foreign investors to participate in business 
activities that were previously limited to 
companies 100% domestically owned.  
  Mode 3  All sectors  Companies Law 2017  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.dica.gov.mm/en/news/mya
nmar-companies -law-2017 
 Approved on  
6 December 2017.  
Date of entry in 
effect to be 
determined.     
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 132 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Nigeria  
A new executive order prohibits the Ministry 
of Interior from giving visas to foreign 
workers whose skills are readily available in 
Nigeria.   
 
The new measure, which aims to promote 
science, technology and innovation in 
national economic development, also 
instructs all procuring authorities to give 
preference to  Nigerian companies in the 
award of contracts.  Further, Nigerian 
companies shall be leading in any 
consultancy services involving joint 
ventures relating such matters as law, 
engineering, ICT, and architecture.  
 Multiple 
modes  All sectors  
 Presidential Exe cutive Order 5 for 
Planning and Execution of Projects, 
Promotion of Nigerian Content in 
Contracts and Science, Engineering and 
Technology.  
 
Viewed at:  
http://statehouse.gov.ng/news/press -
release -president -buhari -signs-
executive -order -to-improve -local-
content -in-science -engineering -and-
technology -procurement/   
 
 Effective  
5 February 20 18  
The Philippines  
Through Memorandum Order no 16, the 
President of the Philippines directed the 
National Economic and Development 
Authority (NEDA) Board to take immediate 
steps to lift or ease existing restrictions on 
foreign participation in the following areas: 
private recruitment; practice of professions 
where foreign participation would be of 
public benefit; contracts for the 
construction and repair of locally -funded 
public works; public services, except where 
recognized as public utilities, su ch as 
transmission and distribution of electricity, 
water distribution, and sewage services; 
culture, production, milling, processing, and 
trading (except retailing) of rice and corn; 
teaching at higher education levels; retail 
trade enterprises; domestic market 
enterprises. The Order also calls for new 
measures to clarify the def inition of 'public 
utilities'.  
 Mode 3  Various sectors  
 Memorandum Order no. 16  
 
Viewed at:  
 
http://www.manilatimes.net/duterte -lift-
limits -foreign -investment/364705/  21 November 2017  
 YES   
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 133 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
The Saudi  Arabian General Investment  
Authority (SAGIA) extended the duration of 
foreign investment licenses to 5 years, up 
from 1 year.  The licensing per iod continues 
to be renewable.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.
aspx?g=fc92f8a2 -23c0-4e6d-a115-
58324ede1d2c  Effective  
27 February 2018  YES 
Tanzania  
The government's new regulations for the 
mining sector impose preferences for local 
services and suppliers.  For example, the 
regulations require a non -indigenous  
Tanzanian company wishing to provide 
goods or services in the mining industry to 
incorporate a joint venture company in 
which an indigenous company holds equity 
participation of at least 20%.  
 Modes 1 
and 3  Various sectors  
 Mining (Local Content) Regulatio ns, G.N. 
No 3 of 2018  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.tcme.or.tz/resources/view/th
e-mining -local-content -regulations -2018 
 Published on  
10 January 2018  
  
The Regulations also require all insurable 
risks relating to mining activities to be 
insured through an indigenous brokerage 
company and, where applicable, and 
indigenous reinsurance broker.  Companies 
engaged in mining activities can only retain 
the services o f a Tanzanian legal 
practitioner or a legal firm whose principal 
office is located in Tanzania.  In similar 
fashion, the regulations require 
maintenance of a bank account with an 
indigenous Tanzanian bank and to conduct 
of financial transactions with banks in the 
country.  
      
Indigenous companies are defined as those 
with at least 51% of equity owned by 
Tanzanian citizens, and at least 80% of 
executive and senior management positions 
and 100% of other positions held by 
Tanzanian citizens.  
        
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 134 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Thailand  
The new Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) 
Act sets out rules and procedures for 
promoting and easing investment in 10 
targeted industries, including automotive, 
smart electronics, robotics, aviation and 
logistics.  The EEC area covers Chonburi, 
Rayong, Chach eongsao and other provinces 
to be announced by royal decree.  Among 
other incentives, foreign investors are 
allowed to own land in special economic 
promotion zones (SEPZ), and to lease land 
for 50 years, with renewal for an additional 
49 years.  The Act also  allows waiving work 
permit requirements for c ertain skilled 
labour in SEPZ.  
 Modes 3 
and 4  Various sectors  Eastern Economic Corridor Act B.E. 2561  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.aseanbriefing.com/news/20
18/03/09/thailand -eastern -economic -
corridor -eec.html  
 Adopted on  
8 February 2018  
 YES 
The Board of Investment of Thailand 
published a series of announcements 
adding new sectors, and withdrawing 
others, from the list of activities eligi ble for 
investment incentives.  
 Mode 3  Various sectors  Announcements of the Board of 
Investment No. Sor. 3/B.E. 2560 (2017), 
No. Sor.1/ B.E. 2561 (2018), No. Por. 4/ 
B.E. 2560 (2017).  October 2017 – 
February 2018  
 YES 
United Arab Emirates  
Amendments to the Commercial Companies 
Law give the government the power to 
relax the requirement that at least 51% of 
shares in limited liability companies be held 
by nationals of the United Arab Emirates.  
The sectors concerned will be identified 
through subsequent regulations.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  
 Federal Law No. 18 of 2017  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.
aspx?g=6cd7f244 -17de-4581-9a9d-
59cad9275201  Effective  
28 October 2017  
    
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 135 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of  
The government adopted measures to 
modify its foreign investment regime.  
Among changes introduced, the minimum 
term required for foreign investment to 
remain in the country was reduced from 5 
to 2 years.  After such term, investors can 
send remittances abroad in relation to the 
capital originally invested.  The law specifies 
that foreign investors may not par ticipate 
directly or indirectly in the national political 
debate or contribute to the formation of an 
opinion on matters of public interest in 
social media.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  
 Constitutional Law on Productive Foreign 
Investment  
 
Viewed at:  
http://investmentpolicyhub.unctad.org/I
PM/MeasureDetails?id=3178&rgn=&grp=
&t=&s=&pg=1&c=121%2C122&dt=&df=
&isSearch=true  Effective  
29 December 2017  
  
Zimbabwe  
The government has removed the 
requirement that at least 51% of all 
businesses be owned by indigenous 
Zimbabweans.  The requirement is only 
maintained for companies involved in the 
diamond and platinum extractive industries.  
In addition, only Zimbabwean citizens may 
own a business in 12 reserved sectors, 
including passenger transportation, retail 
and wholesale trade, packaging, and 
advertising agencies.  Reserved sectors were 
previously limited to 'indigenous locals' 
instead of citizens.  
 Mode 3  All sectors  
 Amendments to the Indigenisation and 
Economic Empowerment Act, Chapter 
14:33  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.lexology.com/library/det ail.
aspx?g=264798c1 -24b0-4b7f-b7f9-
6a2403345085  
 Effective  
14 March 2018  
    
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 136 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
TELECOMMUNICATIONS/ICT/AUDIOVISUAL SERVICES  
Benin  
Benin entered the free mobile roaming zone 
established by countries in West Africa 
(Cote d 'Ivoire, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso,  
Sierra Leone, Senegal and Togo).  Travellers 
among the above countries benefit from 
outgoing calls billed at local rates, plus free 
incoming calls (currently capped at 300 
incoming minutes/month).  
 Modes 1 -2 Telecommunication 
services  ARCEP Decision No. 2018-11 
 
Viewed at:  
 
https://arcep.bj/free -roaming -de-
lafrique -de-louest/  
 Effective  
1 March 2018   
Chile  
The parliament approved a bill modifying 
the General Telecommunications Law in 
order to establish an obligation for 
providers of fixed and mobile internet 
services to provide guaranteed minimum 
access speed of the Internet.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Law No. 21.046 " Establece La Obligación 
De Una Velocidad Mínima Garantizada De 
Acceso A Internet", modifying Law No. 
18.168 "General De Telecomunicaciones " 
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.leychile.cl/Navegar?idNorm
a=1111298  
 25 November 2017  YES 
China  
As of 1 April 2018, the use of unlicensed 
virtual private networks (VPNs) is banned.  
In January 2017, a Circular required all VPN 
providers to be licensed by the Ministry of 
Industry and Information Technology 
(MIIT).  Providers were given up to 31 
March to comply, after which unlicensed  
services would be blocked.   
 
The Circular requires pre -approval for 
cross-border business operations intending 
to set up their own or leasing private leased 
circuits (PLCs), including VPNs.  If approved, 
PLCs can only be used to handle internal 
official bu siness and not to connect onshore 
and offshore data centres or business 
platforms to carry out telecom business 
operations.  Modes 1 -3 Telecommunication 
services  Circular on Cleaning Up and Regulating 
the Internet Access Service Market 
(Circular 32), issue d on 17 January 2017.  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.techradar.com/news/china -
will-block-all-non-approved -vpns-from-
next-month  
 
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.
aspx?g=9716093a -89af-46a3-b72b-
84023241a8f7  
 Effective  
1 April 2018     
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 137 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
European Union  
The new General Data Protection Regulation 
(GDPR), which entered into force on 25 May 
2018, overhauls the EU data protection 
regime by strengthening data subject rights 
and imposing new requirements on 
organizations that process personal data.  
 Modes 1 -3 Internet and other 
network enabled 
services  Regulation (EU ) 2016/679 of the 
European Parliament and of the Council 
of 27 April 2016  
 
Viewed at:  
http://eur -lex.europa.eu/legal -
content/en/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32016R
0679 
 Effective  
25 May 2018  YES 
The European Commission announced that 
preliminary agreement was reached with 
the European Parliament and Council on the 
main elements of revised audiovisual rules 
that will apply to broadcasters, video -on-
demand and video -sharing platforms.  
Revisions include:  
- a requirement that on -demand catalogues 
contain at least a 30% share of European 
content;  
- the possibility for Member States to 
impose financial contributions (direct 
investments in content or levies paid to a 
national fund) upon me dia service  
providers to contribute to the development 
of European productions;  Modes 1 -3 Audiovisual services  Viewed at:  
http://europa.eu/rapid/press -release_IP -
18-3567_en.htm  26 April 2018  YES 
- alignment of the procedures for 
exceptions to the country -of-origin principle 
for on -demand service providers as for TV 
broadcasters;  
- increased protections of minors and rules 
against hate speech for TV and on -demand 
services;  
- extension of certain audiovisual  
commercial communications rules to video 
sharing platforms;         
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 138 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
- extension of the scope to cover video -
sharing platforms and obligation for them to 
put in place measures to protect the 
general public, including minors, from 
certain content;  
- new rules to ensure that audiovisual 
regulators are legally distinct from the 
government and functionally independent 
from the government and any other public 
or private body;  
- increased flexibility regarding the airing of 
TV adver tising.  
      
France  
French telecoms regulator Arcep adopted 
decisions aimed at ensuring greater 
competition in the fixed markets for the 
period 2017 -2020, including by allowing 
alternative operators better access to 
Orange France 's infrastructure.  Mode 3 Telecommunication 
services  Decision No. 2017 -1347 
Decision No. 2017 -1348 
Decision No. 2017 -1349 
Decision No. 2017 -1488 
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.arcep.fr/uploads/tx_gsavis/
17-1347.pdf  
https://www.arcep.fr/uploads/tx_gsavis/
17-1348.pdf  
https://www.arcep.fr/uploads/tx_gsavis/
17-1349.pdf  
https://www.arcep.fr/uploads/tx_gsavis/
17-1488.pdf  
 Effective  
14 December 2017  YES 
Guyana  
The Minister of Public Telecommunications 
signed a commencement order to establish 
the National Telecommunications Agency 
(NATA), a new independent regulatory body 
for telecoms . This represents the first phase 
in the implementation of the 
Telecommunications Act of 2016.  The 
agency will be responsible for the 
finalization of licensing procedures in 
preparation for liberalization and issuance 
of new licenses to telecommunication 
entities.  
 Multiple 
modes  Telecommunication 
services  Viewed at:  
https://mopt.gov.gy/news/related -
news/national -telecommunications -
agency -in-effect/  
 Effective  
19 January 2018     
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 139 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Italy  
The government adopted new measures 
regulating the audiovisual sector, including 
increased quotas for Italian and EU content.  
The overall quota for the broadcasting of EU 
works will increase from 50% to 53% in 
2019, to 56% in 2020, and 60% in 2021.  
For public broadcasters, at least half of that 
quota has t o be used for works of Italian 
original expression, and at least one third in 
the case of private broadcasters.  The new 
rules also set out the minimum number of 
works of Italian original expression to be 
broadcast during prime time hours, and 
require addit ional investment by 
broadcasters in works of Italian original 
expression and European productions from 
independent producers.  
 
The rules further lay down specific quotas 
(30%) for European works and investment 
obligations for on -demand services.   
 Modes 1 -3 Audiovisual services  Legislative Decrees no. 202 on Provisions 
on Employment in the Film and 
Audiovisual Sector; no. 203 on Reform of 
Legislation on the Protection of Minors in 
the Film and Audiovisual Sector, and no. 
204 on Reform of Legislation on the 
Promotion of European and Italian Works 
by Providers of Film and Audiovisual 
Works.  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.medi alaws.eu/three -new-
pieces -of-legislation -implementing -
franceschini -act-on-cinema -and-audio -
visual -media -services/  
 Effective  
1 December 2017  YES 
Niger  
The government of Niger voted to abolish 
the country 's tax on incoming international 
traffic under the  Finance Act 2018.  Mode 1  Telecommunication 
services  Finance Act 2018  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.finances.gouv.ne/index.php/l
ois-de-finances/file/365 -2016-josp-n-26-
loi-de-finances -2018-1er 
 Effective  
1 March 2018  
    
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 140 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Russian Federation  
The government introduced new rules for 
owners of electronic messenger services.  
Owners have to register  with the national 
regulator and are required to maintain 
certain information on local servers.  Owners 
are also required to identify users through 
mobile phone numbers, and to store this 
information in the Russian Federation.   
 
Electronic messenger service s are defined 
in the law as any technology or software 
designed or used to exchange electronic 
messages among users.  Modes 1 -3 Electronic 
messaging services  
 Federal Law of 29 July 2017 No. 241 -FZ 
On Amendments to Articles 10.1 and 
15.4 of the Federal Law  of 27 July 2006 
No. 149 -FZ On Information, Information 
Technologies and Data Protection (the 
'Messengers Law ') 
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.gorodissky.com/publications/
articles/russia -further -regulates -instant -
messaging -services -providers/   
 
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.
aspx?g=6d53e547 -d732-4314-9b65-
c9508b093263  
 Effective  
1 January 2018  
  
A new measure requires operators of virtual 
private networks (VPNs) and similar 
technologies to prevent Russian users from 
accessing websites and other resources that 
have been blocked by Russian authorities.  
 Modes 1 -3 Virtual private 
network services  Law on Amendments to IT Law No.276 -
FZ, dated July 29, 2017 (the "Law on 
Amendments ") 
 
Viewed at:  
https://themoscowtimes.com/news/russi
an-law-banning -anonymous -online -
surfing -comes -into-effect -59434   
 Effective  
1 November 2017     
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 141 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
The government introduced a new 
technology -neutral and service -neutral 
licensing regime.  The "Facilities Based 
Unified License" allows a holder to provide a 
range of fixed, mobile, data and other 
services and networks, using any type of  
communications infrastructure and 
technology capable of delivering the desired 
service.   
 
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  
 CITC Decisions 337/1438, 336/1438, 
335/1438;  
Decision by Minister of Communications 
and Information Technology  
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.citc.gov.sa/en/RulesandSyst
ems/RegulatoryDocuments/Licenses/Lice
nsingRegulatoryFrameworks/Docum ents/
PL-SP-020-E-Licensing.pdf  
 
http://www.citc.gov.sa/en/RulesandSyst
ems/RegulatoryDocuments/Licenses/ Lice
nsingRegulatoryFrameworks/Documents/
PL-SP-019-E-Licensing.pdf  
 
http://www.citc.gov.sa/ar/Decisionsoffer
s/Decisions/Pages/335 -1438.aspx  
 
http://www.citc.gov.sa/ar/MediaCenter/P
ressReleases/Pages/2017092402.aspx  
 November  2017-
January 2018  YES 
The government approved licensing 
regulations for cinemas, lifting the long -
standing prohibition on this activity.  
 Mode 3  Audiovisual services  Viewed at:   
http://www.gcam.gov.sa/ar/MediaCenter
/News/Pages/default.aspx  
 Effective  
11 Dece mber 2017  
 
  YES 
South Africa  
A new measure adopted by Parliament 
gives the Film and Publications Board (FPB) 
the regulatory power to monitor and 
classify online content, including online 
videos, streaming services, and social 
media.  The Bill has been transmitted to the 
National Council of Provinces for approval, 
before the President can sign it into law.  
 Modes 1 -3  
 Online content   Films and Publications Amendment Bill  
 
Viewed at:  
https://altadvisory.africa/2018/03/07/so
uth-africas -national -assembly -passes -
the-films-and-publications -amendment -
bill/ Adopted by the 
National Assembly 
on 6 March 2018  
 YES   
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 142 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Togo  
The Council of Ministers adopted a decree 
establishing new minimum levels of service 
required under the universal service 
scheme.  The decree updates the scope of 
universal service, most notably, to include 
Internet access and set minimum Internet 
bandwidth req uirements.   
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Viewed at:  
http://numerique.gouv.tg/article/adoptio
n-du-decret -sur-le-service -universel -
pour-garantir -un-acces -minimum -aux 
 Adopted on  
18 April 2018  
  
Turkey  
The new measure requires media service 
suppliers to obtain a broadcasting licence 
and platform operators to obtain an 
authorization for transmission from 
Turkey's Radio and Television Supreme 
Council (RTÜK) in order to provide radio, 
television and on -demand broadcasting 
services on the Internet.  Lack of a valid 
licence can result in removal of the content 
or blocking of access.   
 Modes 1 -3 Internet 
broadcasting 
services  Addition of Article 29/A to Law No. 6112 
on the Establishment of Radio and 
Television Enterprises and Media Services  
  
Viewed at:  
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.
aspx?g=9cdac9b6 -6923-4bf3-9d47-
3b9fbaa6f58f   
 
http://www.mevzuat.gov.tr/MevzuatMeti
n/1.5.6112.pdf  
 Effective  
2 March 2018  
 YES 
The measure applies to the media service 
suppliers and platform operators who wish 
to broadcast only via Internet.   
 
If the content is provided from abroad or 
the service supplier is based abroad, the 
licence requirement applies in the following 
cases:  
a) service providers or platforms that 
broadcast in violation of international 
agreements and the Broadcasting Law;  
b) broadcasters of Internet content in 
Turkish and aimed at persons in Turkey;  
c) broadcasting organizations that do not 
broadcast in Turkish but include commercial 
communications aimed at persons in 
Turkey.  
        
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 143 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
United Kingdom  
Ofcom published a Statement containing a 
set of measures aimed at increasing 
investment in full -fibre broadband networks 
and lowering the upfront building costs. The 
main measures cover competitors' access to 
BT's infrastructure, price deregulation of 
Openreach's wholesale superfast broadband 
products, price cuts for entry -level 
superfast broadband service, and stricter 
requirements on Openreach to fix faults a nd 
install new broadband lines.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Quality of service for WLR, MPF and GEA:  
Statement on quality of service remedies  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.ofcom.org.uk/__data/assets
/pdf_file/0007/112210/statement -qos-
wlr-mpf-gea2.pdf  Effective  
1 April 2018   
United States  
The FCC released a ruling on Restoring 
Internet Freedom, thereby repealing net 
neutrality rules previously put into place.  As 
part of the means of doing so, the FCC 
ruling reversed the previous administrations 
classification of Interne t as a common 
carrier service.  
 Mode 3  Telecommunication 
services  Declaratory Ruling, Report and Order, 
and Order (FCC 17 -166) 
 
Viewed at:  
https://apps. fcc.gov/edocs_public/attach
match/FCC -17-166A1.pdf  4 January 2018     
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 144 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
FINANCIAL SERVICES  
China  
The measure removes various approval 
requirements and replaces them by 
reporting requirements. The services and 
activities concerned include the following: 
a) custody services provided to the 
securities invested funds by locally 
incorporated foreign -invested banks; b) 
custody services provided to the overseas 
wealth management products issued by 
banks for and on behalf of customers by 
foreign -invested banks (inc luding the locally 
incorporated foreign -invested banks and 
foreign banks' PRC branches); and c) 
overseas wealth management services 
issued for and on behalf of customers by 
foreign -invested banks.  The measure also 
allows locally incorporated foreign -invest ed 
banks to establish or invest in CBRC 
regulated banking financial institutions.   
Finally, the measure unifies to a great 
extent the market access standards for 
foreign -invested banks and domestic -
funded banks, by 1) consolidating the 
various approval pro cedures for the 
establishment and opening of sub -branches 
into one approval for business 
commencement; 2) optimizing the 
conditions raising and issuing debt and 
capital supplement instruments by locally 
incorporated foreign -invested banks; and 3) 
simplifyi ng the qualification review 
procedures for the authorization of 
executives.  
 Mode 3  Banking services  Decision of the China Banking Regulatory 
Commission on Revising the China 
Banking Regulatory Commission 
Implementing Measures for the 
Administrative Licensing Items of 
Foreign -funded Banks (Order No. 3 
[2018] of the China Banking Regulatory 
Commission)  Effective  
13 February 2018  YES 
Crude oil futures were listed for trade on 
the subsidiary of Shanghai Futures 
Exchange, Shanghai International Energy 
Exchange Co., Ltd., on March 26, 2018. 
Overseas traders and overseas brokerage 
agencies can participate in the crude oil 
futures trading legally.  Mode 1  Financial services  Interim Measures on Administration of 
Trading of Specific kind of Futures in 
China by Overseas Traders and Overseas 
Brokers  (Order No. 116 of China 
Securities Regulatory Commission)  26 March 2018 
    
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 145 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
The measures lifts market access 
restrictions on non -banking payment 
institutions. Foreign suppliers wishing to 
provide electronic payment services for 
domestic transactions and cross -border 
transactions must obtain a payment service  
licence and establish foreign -invested 
enterprises within the territory of the 
People's Republic of China. The foreign -
invested payment institution shall be 
capable of independently completing the 
payment business within the territory of 
China. The storage, processing  and analysis 
of personal information and financial 
information collected and generated by 
foreign investment payment agencies in 
China must be conducted within the 
territory.  In order for the information to be 
transferred overseas, the supplier must 
compl y with the laws and regulations of the 
relevant regulatory authorities, fulfil 
corresponding information confidentiality 
obligations, and obtain the consent of the 
personal information subject.  
 Modes 1 -3 Banking and other 
financial services  The Announceme nt on Matters 
Concerning Foreign Investment and 
Payment Institutions.  Announcement by 
People's Bank of China (2018 No. 7)  Effective  
19 March 2018   
India  
The Reserve Bank announced that sub -
targets for lending to small and marginal 
farmers and micro enterprises will be 
applied to foreign banks of 20 branches or 
above.  The sub -target of 8 percent of 
Adjusted Net Bank Credit (ANBC) or Credit 
Equivalent Amount of Off -Balance Sheet 
Exposure (CEOBE), whichever is higher, will 
apply to lending to the small and marginal 
farmers from fiscal year 2018 -19. The 
lending target for micro enterprises will be 
of 7.5% of ANBC or CEOBE, whichever is 
higher.  The new measure also removes the 
credit caps on MSMEs (Services) under 
Priority Sector.   
 Mode 3  Banking services  Reserve Bank of India, Statement on 
Developmental and Regulatory Policies – 
February 2018  
 
Viewed at:  
https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PressRele
ase/PDFs/PR2147D452F23A943B4865A3
C8C775F9D7EF8D.PDF  
 Effective from fiscal 
year 2018 -9 YES   
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 146 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
The Reserve Bank of India issued a 
Directive on 6 April 2018 requiring all 
payment system operators to store data 
within the country.  Operators are given a 
maximum of 6 months to comply with the 
requirement and to submit an audit report 
certifying compliance.  Modes 1 -3 Banking and other 
financial services  Directive from the Reserve Bank of India 
issued under Section 10(2) read with 
Section 18 of Payment and Settlemen t 
Systems Act 2007, (Act 51 of 2007).  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.rbi.org.in/scripts/Notificatio
nUser.aspx?Id=11244&Mode=0   
 6 April 2018  YES 
Indonesia  
The measure requires domestic retail debit 
and credit transactions to be processed 
through switching institutions located in 
Indonesia and licensed by the Bank of 
Indonesia.  The measure also imposes a 
20% foreign equity cap on firms that wish 
to obtain switching licenses to pa rticipate in 
the National Payment Gateway (NPG).  
Foreign firms that wish to process 
transactions through the NPG must form 
partnership agreements with licensed NPG 
switch institutions and agree to transfer 
technology as part of these agreements.  
 Modes 1 
and 3  Banking and other 
financial services   Bank Indonesia Board of Governors 
Regulation 19/10/PADG/2017 concerning 
National Payment Gateway  
 Bank Indonesia has 
begun 
implementation of 
these measures, 
requiring 
Indonesian issuers 
to begin issuing 
ATM and/o r debit 
cards with the NPG 
national logo by 
January 1, 2018.  
 
  
    
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 147 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Jordan  
The government adopted a new law limiting 
the entities that are able to broker or 
mediate on behalf of third parties in foreign 
stock exchanges.  Only banks and financial 
services companies licensed by the Jordan 
Securities Commission are allowed to carry 
out these activities.  Since adoption of the 
law, 14 companies have so far been 
licensed for these activities.  
 Mode 3  Banking and other 
financial services  Law No. 1 of 2017, Regula ting Dealings 
with Foreign Stock Exchanges  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.
aspx?g=92fd4b56 -3fba-4281-a8a8-
aa9fd0f17b1b  October 2017  YES 
Moldova, Republic of  
Moldova adopted a series of measures in 
relation to financial services, including new 
rules regarding access to the activity of 
credit institutions and the prudential 
supervision of credit institutions and 
investment firms.  Modes 1 -3 Financial services  Law no. 242 of 23.11.2017 amending 
article 29 of the Law on Insurance (no. 
407/2006);  
Law no. 33 amending the Capital Market 
Law; 
Law no. 225 of 15.12.2017 amending 
some legislative acts (Fiscal Code, 
Customs Code,  
Law on NCFM) in the context of the 
Capital Market Law (no. 171/2012);  
Law on non -banking credit organizations 
(no. 1 of 16.03.2018);  
Law amending certain legal acts (Law on 
NCFM, Law on Leasing) (no. 35 of 
16.03.2018);  
NCFM Decision no. 13/10 of 13.03.2018  
 November 2017 – 
April 2018  
  
Myanmar  
The government recently permitted seven 
of the 13 foreign banks operating in 
Myanmar to provide export -financing 
services. This puts the foreign banks at par 
with local counterparts. Besides providing 
export financing services, the selected 
foreign banks will be allowed to extend 
credit to foreign businesses as well as local 
banks.  
 Mode 3  Banking and other 
financial services  ASEAN briefing, 21 March 2018  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.aseanbriefing.com/news/20
18/03/21/banking -sector -reforms -
myanmar.html  December 2017     
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 148 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Philippines  
The Central Bank of the Philippines adopted 
a series of new measures affecting banking 
and other financial services.  For example, 
the requirements on the issuance of bonds 
and commercial papers by banks and quasi -
banks (QBs) were streamlined by removing 
the minimum bond features, such as the 
requirement on eligible collaterals, which 
could constrain banks and Q Bs from issuing 
debt securities.  
 Mode 3  Banking and other 
financial services  Circular No. 975 -976, 978 - 985, 988 -
999. 
 
  Implemented 
between October 
2017 and April 
2018 YES 
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
Foreign investors have been allowed to 
invest directly in the Parallel Market 
(NOMU).  Foreign investors in NOMU are no 
longer required to qualify as foreign 
institutional investors, but have to meet 
eligibility criteria.  NOMU is an alternative 
equity market with lighter listing 
requirements than the main marke t,  
especially used by small and medium -sized 
companies.  
 Mode 3  Banking and other 
financial services  Resolution from the Capital Market 
Authority (CMA) Board  
 
Viewed at:  
https://cma.org.sa/en/Pages/default.asp
x  Effective  
1 January 2018  YES 
The Capital Market Authority 's Board of 
Commissioners adopted revised regulations 
on mergers and acquisitions, new 
regulations in relation to the establishment 
and licensing of special purpose entities in 
the financial service sector, and updated 
rules for Qualified Foreign Financial 
Institutions Investment in Listed Securities.  
 Mode 3  Financial services  Merger and Acquisition Regulations;  
Rules for Special Purposes Entities;  
Rules for Qualified Foreign Financial 
Institutions Investment in Listed 
Securities.  
 
Viewed at:  
https://cma.org.sa/en/   
 Effective  
23 April 2018;  
1 April 2018;  
13 January 2018.  YES   
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 149 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
South Africa  
The new Insurance Act introduced 
regulations on activities of foreign -based 
insurers.  It prohibits such insurers and 
reinsurers from soliciting business in South 
Africa on a cross -border basis, except 
where foreign reinsurers conduct business 
through a branch established in  South 
Africa.   
 Modes 1 -2 
 Insurance services  Insurance Act 2017  
 
Viewed at:  
https://w ww.clydeco.com/insight/article/
south -african -insurance -bill-signed -into-
law?utm_source=Mondaq&utm_medium
=syndication&utm_campaign=View -
Original  Effective  
18 January 2018  
 YES 
Thailand  
A new measure by the Bank of Thailand 
modifies the quantifying criteria with 
respect to limits on foreign banks' physical 
branches and ATMs.   
 Mode 3  Banking and other 
financial services  The Notification of the Bank of Thailand 
No. FPG. 4/2561 (Number and 
quantifying criteria of service locations of 
foreign commercial  bank's subsidiary and 
branch of a foreign commercial bank)  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.bot.or.th/English/Pages/def
ault.aspx   
 Effective  
6 March 2018  
 YES 
DISTRIBUTION SERVICES  
Irak (observer)  
The New Commercial Agency Law specifies 
that goods for resale can only be imported 
by a registered commercial agent.  Only an 
Iraqi national or a company wholly -owned 
by Iraqi nationals can be a commercial 
agent.  The new law also protects 
commercial agent s from termination or 
non-renewal of contracts with foreign 
entities.   
 Mode 3  Distribution 
services  Law No. 79 of 2017 (the New 
Commercial Agency Law)  
 
 Effective  
13 November 2017  
  
Myanmar  
The government allowed joint ventures 
between foreign and domestic companies 
for the retail and wholesale trade of 
agricultural machinery.  
 Mode 3  Retail and 
wholesale trade  Ministry of Commerce, Notification No. 
55/2017  
 
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.
aspx?g=69014aa8 -a1ac-4ca7-872f-
bff16be68b79  Effective  
17 November 2017     
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 150 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Viet Nam  
The government eased certain regulations 
in relation to the activities of foreign -
invested enterprises engaged in trade in 
goods and related activities.  The Decree 
clarifies that a Business Licence is required 
for such activities as retail distribution, 
trade intermediation services and e -
commerce services.  It also expands 
distribution rights for certain commodities 
to foreign -investment enterprises meeting 
specified conditions.  For example, foreign 
supermarkets and convenience stores may 
receive retail distribution rights for rice, 
sugar, media recordings, books,  
newspapers and magazines.  Mode 3  
 Distribution 
services  
 Decree No. 9/2018/ND -CP 
 
 Effective  
15 January 2018  
  
EDUCATION SERVICES  
Indonesia  
The President of Indonesia has instructed 
his Cabinet to allow 100% foreign 
ownership in universities, and to permit 
foreign institutions to open campuses in the 
country.  
 
 Mode 3  Education services  Viewed at:  
https://www.reuters.com/article/us -
indonesia -investment -
education/indonesia -plans -to-open-
university -sector -to-100-percent -foreign -
ownership -idUSKCN1HB0T4  Announcement on  
4 April 2018  
 
  
Myanmar  
The Myanmar Investment Commission 
(MIC) allowed full foreign capital 
participation in private education 
institutions.  The new measure applies to 
basic education schools, technical, 
vocational and training schools, higher 
education institutions, subject -based 
schools, and private schools designated by 
the Ministry of Education.  
 Mode 3  Educational 
services  MIC Notification 7/2018  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.mmtimes.com/news/myan
mar-permits -full-foreign -capital -
investments -education -sector.html  Notifi cation issued 
on 20 Apr il 2018  
 
    
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 151 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES  
India  
The Supreme Court of India rendered a 
judgment in which it held that foreign law 
firms cannot set up offices in India or 
practice in Indian Courts. Foreign law firms 
or foreign lawyers are not prohibited from  Modes 3 -4 Legal Services  Supreme Court of India, judgment dated 
13 March 2018, Civil Appeal Nos. 7875 -
7879 of 2015, titled Bar Council of India 
Vs A.K. Balaji and Ors.  13 March 2018  YES 
visiting India for a temporary period in 
order to provide legal advice regarding 
foreign law on diverse international legal 
issues on a 'fly in and fly out ' basis if it does 
not amount to practice including 
appearances in Courts of India. The 
Supreme Court  also held that foreign 
lawyers are not barred if the matter is 
governed by particular rules of an arbitral 
institution or if the matter otherwise falls 
under section 32 or 33 of the Arbitration 
and Conciliation Act.  Even in such cases, 
the Code of Conduct  applicable to the legal 
profession in India has to be followed.  
   Viewed at:  
https://sci.gov.in/supremecourt/2012/13
890/13890_2012_Judgement_13 -Mar-
2018.pdf    
TRANSPORT SERVICES  
Viet Nam  
The government issued regulations for 
logistics services.  It eliminated the 
requirement that foreign investors establish 
through joint -ventures with local 
enterprises.  Logistics services are defined in 
the regulations as covering an array of 
services, including container handling, 
warehousing, freight transport agencies, 
delivery, customs brokerage, and 
maritime/rail/road/air freight transport 
services.  Foreign ownership limits remain 
for some of these services.  The regula tions 
state that logistics services supplied partly 
or entirely over electronic networks have to 
comply with e -commerce regulations, which 
include a registrat ion requirement.  
 Mode 3  Logistics and 
transport services  Decree No. 163/2017/ND -CP 
 
Viewed at:  
http://www.vietnam -
briefing.com/news/vietnam -allows -
foreign -investors -establish -logistics -
firms.html/  
 Effective  
20 February 2018     
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 152 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
SERVICES SUPPLIED THROUGH THE MOVEMENT OF NATURAL PERSONS  
Australia  
On 18 March 2018, the Australian 
Government replaced the Temporary Work 
(Skilled)(subclass 457) visa with the new 
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa.  
 
The TSS visa facilitates the targeted use of 
overseas workers to address temporary skill 
shortages, while ensuring that Australian 
workers get priority. TSS visa holders can 
work in Australia in their nominated 
occupation for their approved sponsor 
under one of three streams:  
 
- The Short -term stream, underpinned by 
the Short -term Skilled Occupations List 
(STSOL);  
- The Medium -term stream, underpinned by 
the Medium and Long -term Strategic Skills 
List (MLTSSL);  
- Labour agreement stream: labour 
agreements are developed between the 
Department and employers where there is a 
demonstrated need that sits outside the 
standard TSS visa program.  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.border.gov.au/Trav/Work/4
57-abolition -replacement  
 
https://www.jobs.gov.au/SkilledMigratio
nList 
 18 March 2018  YES 
Employers in regional areas may nominate 
overseas workers in the Medium -term 
stream in occupations on the Regional 
Occupation List (ROL), in addition to 
occupations on the MLTSSL.       
 
The Short -term stream is eligible for stay 
periods of up to two years and can be 
renewed on one occasion onshore, unless 
an internatio nal trade obligation applies.  
 
The Medium -term stream is eligible for stay 
periods of up to four years, with no 
restrictions of onshore renewals.  
        
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 153 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
The STSOL, MLTSSL, and ROL are subject 
to regular review by the Department of Jobs 
and Small Business.  The TSS visa is also 
supported by such measures as: enhanced 
labour market testing, mandatory police 
checks, and a 2 -year work experience 
requirement.  
      
Brazil  
The new Migration Law simplifies 
procedures for the entry and residence of 
foreigners in Brazil.  The Law reorganises 
Brazil's visa system into the following 
categories: visitor visas, temporary visas, 
and official, diplomatic and courtesy visas.  
 
Visitor visas are applicable to foreigners 
who do not intend to establish residence in 
Brazil but carry out tourist, business, 
transit, artistic or sporting activities.  
Remunerated activities cannot be 
performed under this visa category.  Initial 
stays are granted for a maximum of 90 
days, with the possibility of extending stays 
for a further 90 days except for foreigners 
conducting auditing and consulting, 
maritime, artistic or sports/athletic 
activities.   
Temporary visas are designed for 
employment, research, health treatment, 
study, vacation, summer jobs, family 
reunion and investment.  They are vali d for 
up to two years and can be renewed for an  
additional two -year period.  Foreigners may 
apply for temporary visas without a formal 
job offer if they provide evidence of a 
higher degree diploma or equivalent.  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Migration Law 13.445  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/services/pe
ople-
organisation/publications/assets/pwc -
brazil -new-migration -law-to-affect -visas-
tax-residence -rules.pdf  
 Effective  
21 November 2017  YES   
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 154 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Chile  
A pilot programme for a new streamlined 
visa application process, called Tech Visa, 
has been launched in Chile.  The Tech Visa 
allows companies in the technology service 
sectors and e nterprises related to the 
Start-Up Chile programme to hire 
specialised professional and technical 
personnel not available in the country for a 
period of up to two years.  Under the 
initiative, the work visa may be obtained 
within a maximum period of 15 working 
days.  
 Mode 4  Technology -related 
sectors  Viewed at:  
http://www.startupchile.org/visatech/  
 19 July 2017  YES 
  Colombia  
Colombia's new Immigration Law (Law 
6045 of 2017) replaces the previous 21 visa 
categories with three types of visas, namely 
visitor visas, migrant visas and resident 
visas, each with corresponding sub -
categories.  
 
As part of the reorganisation, the duration 
of stay for short -term technical visitors  has 
been increased from 180 days to up to two 
years.  Moreover, immigration authorities 
are now required to adjudicate a complete 
visa application within five business days of 
submission, or within 30 days of submission 
of any additional information or 
documentation that may have been 
required.  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/sites/defa
ult/files/Normograma/ docs/resolucion_mi
nrelaciones_6045_2017.htm  Effective  
15 December 2017     
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 155 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Oman  
The Ministry of Manpower banned the 
recruitment of foreign workers by private 
companies for a range of occupations 
across several sectors, such as information 
and technology sector, insurance, media, 
aviation, engineering and medical services.  
 Mode 4  Various sectors  
 Viewed at:  
http://gulfbusiness.com/oman -extend -
foreign -worker -ban-new-sectors / Effective  
24 January 2018   
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  
The Ministry of Labour and Social 
Development introduced a new prohibition 
on foreign workers in 12 additional sectors: 
automobile and mobile shops; shops selling 
home furniture and ready -made office  
materials; sale outlets of ready -made 
garments; children's clothes and men's 
suppliers; watch shops; optical stores; 
electrical and electronics shops; medical 
equipment stores; outlets selling car spare 
parts; building material shops; outlets 
selling all types of carpets; household 
utensils shops and pastry shops.  
 Mode 4  Various sectors  Ministerial decision  
 
Viewed at:  
https://www.financialexpress.com/world -
news/big -setback -to-indians -saudi-
arabia -bans-foreign -workers -in-12-
sectors -check -full-list-of-expatriates -
affected/1054178/   
 
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.
aspx?g=8a369bc1 -b793-42db-9902-
93475690a6d4  Will be effective from  
11 September 2018,  
9 November 2018 
and 7 January 2019, 
depending on the 
sector.  YES 
Employment visas issued for foreign private 
sector workers in Saudi Arabia are now 
valid for one year, down from two years.  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
http://www.arabianbusiness.com/politics
-economics/381916 -saudi -expat -work-
visas-limited -to-one-year 
 Effective  
1 November 2017  YES  
Serbia (observer)  
A number of changes have been introduced 
in relation to the employment of foreign 
workers.  Work permit for posted workers 
and work permit for inter -corporate 
transferees can now be issued for period of 
one year and renewed for two additional 
periods of maximum two years.  Further 
extensions are subject to consent of 
authorities.  The government also 
introduced a new work permit for special 
cases of employment, which concern 
training, apprenticeship, professional 
practice, and vocational training .  
 Mode 4  All sectors  
 Amendments to the Law on Employment 
of Foreigners   
 
Viewed at:  
https://zuniclaw.com/en/w ork-permit -
serbia/  
 
 
 Effective  
25 December 2017  YES   
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 156 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Slovak Republic  
Parliament adopted new measures making 
it easier to employ workers from non -EU 
countries.  Simpler procedures will apply to 
certain professions with shortages of 
workers and in districts/regions where the 
unemployment rate is below 5%.  Foreign 
workers in these professions/regions cannot 
constitute more than 30% of the total 
number of workers in any company.  
 Mode 4  
 Various sectors  Amendments to the Law on Employment 
Services  
 
Viewed at:  
https://spectator.sme.sk/c/20756618/slo
vakia -simplifies -rules-for-import -of-
foreign -workers.html   
 
 Effective  
1 May 2018  
 YES 
This temporary measure is taken in order to 
solve temporary shortage of workforce. A 
list of professions is expected to be set in 
due course.  
      
Switzerland  
The yearly ceilings for work permits for 
highly qualified workers from non -EU/EFTA 
States have been increased by 500 in 2018 
compared to 2017, reaching a total of 
8,000.  4,500 work permits are allocated for 
short stays (L permits), and 3,500 for long 
stays (B permits).  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/fr/home
/aktuell/news/2017/ref_2017 -09-
290.html  
 
https://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/fr/home
/aktuell/ news/2017/ref_2017 -11-
222.html  
 Effective  
1 January 2018  YES 
Employers hiring foreign workers will be 
required to undertake a labour market test 
for certain occupations where the rate of 
unemployment is above 8%.  This threshold 
will be lowered to 5% on 1  January 2020.  
Employers will need to advertise vacancies 
with Switzerland's Employment Service for 
at least 5 days.   
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
https://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/fr/home
/aktuell/news/2017/ref_2017 -12-
081.html  Effective  
1 July 2018  YES   
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 157 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
Chinese Taipei  
The term of work permits for foreign special 
professionals was increased from 3 to 5 
years.  Furthermore, foreign special 
professionals may apply for a new visa 
category ("Employment Gold Card") that 
combines work permit, residence visa, 
residency permit and re -entry permit in a 
single card and with a single online 
application process.  The Gold Card is valid 
for a duration of 1 to 3 years and can be 
obtained in the following fields: science and 
technology, economics, education, culture, 
arts, sports, finance, law and architectural 
design.   
 Mode 4  Various sectors  Viewed at:  
https://foreigntalentact.ndc.gov.tw/en/C
ontent_List.aspx?n=24C15F2CEE245632   Effective  
8 February 2018  YES 
Thailand  
A new SMART visa programme has been 
created to attract qualified foreigners who 
are experts, senior executives, investors 
and start -up entrepreneurs.  
 
The improvements introduced by the new 
visa programme include the possibility of 
multiple entries and the option for foreign 
nationals to work during the validity of the 
visa without needing to obtain a separate 
work permit.  
 Mode 4  All sectors  Viewed at:  
http://www.boi.go.th/upload/content/BO
I-brochure%202018 -smart%20visa -EN-
20180125_97687.pdf  
 Effective  
1 Febru ary 2018  YES   
  WT/TPR/OV/W/1 2 
 
- 158 - Measure  Mode(s) 
of supply  Sectoral 
classification  Source  Date  Verified 
by 
Member  
A new Decree has exempted 3 additional 
categories of foreign natural persons from 
the requirement to obtain a work permit.  
The three categories are:  
 
1) Foreigners entering Thailand irregularly 
for the arrangement or attendance of 
meetings, expression of views, lecture or 
presentation in a meeting, training, visit or 
seminar, or for participation in arts, culture, 
or sports competition;  
2) Foreigners e ntering Thailand to operate 
or invest in a business, or possessing 
knowledge,  capacity and skills that will 
benefit the country's development;  
3) Representatives of foreign juridical 
persons with a licence to operate a business 
under the law.  
 
The decree also allows the submission of 
work permit applications electronically.   
  Mode 4  All sectors  Amendment to the Emergency Decree on 
Managing the Work of Aliens B.E. 2560 
(2017)  Effective  
 28 March 2018  YES 
 
 
__________