WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
6 February  2019 
(19-0658) Page: 1/32 
Trade Policy Review Body  
23 and 25 October 2018  Original: English/Spanish  
anglais/espagnol  
inglés/español  
 
  
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
VANUATU  
MINUTES  OF THE MEETING  
Addendum  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Eloi Laourou (Benin)  
This document contains the advance written questions  and additional questions by 
WTO Members , and replies provided by  Vanuatu .1 
 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
23 et 25 octobre 2018  
EXAMEN DES POLITIQUE S COMMERCIALES  
VANUATU  
COMPTE RENDU DE LA R ÉUNION  
Addendum  
Président : S.E.  M. Eloi Laourou (Bénin)  
Le présent document contient les questions écrites communiquées à l'avance par les 
Membres de l'OMC, leurs questions additionnelles, et les réponses  fournies par  Vanuatu .1 
 
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
23 y 25 de octubre de 2018  
EXAMEN DE  LAS POLÍTICAS COMER CIALES  
VANUATU  
ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN  
Addendum  
Presidente: Excmo.  Sr. Eloi Laourou (Benin)  
En el presente documento figuran las preguntas presentadas anticipadamente por escrito  y 
las preguntas adicionales de los Miembros de la OMC,  así com o las respues tas facilitadas por  
Vanuatu .1 
  
                                                
1 In English and Spanish only./En anglais et espagnol seulement./En inglés y español solamente.  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  Contents  
BRAZIL  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................  3 
CHINESE TAIPEI  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  4 
NEW ZEALAND  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  5 
THE EUROPEAN UNION  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 10 
THE EUROPEAN UNION – FOLLOW -UP QUESTION  ................................ .........................  12 
THE UNITED STATES  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 14 
THE UNITED STATES - ADDITIONAL REPLIES  ................................ ...............................  18 
CANADA  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  23 
JAPAN  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................  24 
ARGENTINA  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  25 
KOREA, REPUBLIC OF  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 26 
CHINA  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................  29 
AUSTRALIA  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  31 
AUSTRALIA - ADDITION AL REPLIES  ................................ ................................ .............  32 
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  BRAZIL  
TRADE POLICY REVIEW - REPORT BY THE SECRETARIAT  
 
3 Trade Policies and Practices by Measure  
3.3 Measures Affecting Production and Trade  
3.3.3 Sanitary and phytosanitary requirements  
 
"3.64. Vanuatu has not submitted any notifications to the WTO on its SPS measures. No specific 
trade concerns were raised regarding Vanuatu's SPS measures in the SPS Committee".  
 
Question 1:  
Could Vanuatu provide information whether the country has any in tention to submit 
notification to the WTO on its SPS measures?  
 
Vanuatu intends to submit notification to the WTO on it's SPS measures once it has sufficient capacity 
to collate and process the documents. As part of Vanuatu's trade portal programme and all  the 
documents are properly collated, these will be completed. Any notification will be completed in 2020.  
 
_______________  
 
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  CHINESE TAIPEI  
PART I: REGARDING TH E SECRETARIAT REPORT  (WT/TPR/S/ 378) 
 
4.4.4 TRANSPORT  
4.4.4.1 Civil aviation  
Page 74 (Para 4.120. ) 
Vanuatu signed bilateral ASAs with Australia, Fiji, Kiribati, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Papua New 
Guinea, Singapore, Solomon Islands, and Chinese Taipei. Of these, there have been no direct flights 
between Vanuatu and Chinese Taipei, or between V anuatu and Kiribati. Vanuatu has adopted the 
Open Skies Policy, which has been captured in the Civil Aviation Act.  
 
Question(s):  
According to our records, we have not signed a bilateral Air Services Agreement with 
Vanuatu. We would be glad to establish an air transportation relationship with Vanuatu 
in the future.  
 
Vanuatu does not have an ASA with Chin ese Taipei.  
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  NEW ZEALAND  
REPORT BY THE WTO SE CRETARIAT (WT/TPR/S/ 378)  
SECTION 1.3 Developments in Trade and Investment  
WT/TPR/S/378, page 15, paragraph 1.16  
Section 1 of the Secretariat Report, page 15, notes that Vanuatu's merchandise exports are heavily 
concentrated in a few items. This namely includes copra, kava, beef, cocoa, timber and coffee.  
Question(s):  
• What efforts have been made to  diversify Vanuatu's portfolio of exports?  
• Encourage existing manufacturing industries to produce finished products in Vanuatu  
• Encourage development of Economic Zones in Vanuatu as an essential infrastructure to 
facilitate establishment of export base indu stries in Vanuatu  
• Encourage export of comparative advantage products under the Free Trade Agreements, for 
example Vanuatu beef by -products, kava juice and powder, water and others to be traded 
under MSG, PACER Plus.  
• Have there been any feasibility studies to explore developing value -add products?  
• Value chain studies have been conducted for the following value chains, Kava, Coconut, Beef, 
Sandalwood, Fruits and Vegetables, whitewood, Nagai Nuts, Tamau.  
SECTION 2.4 Investment Regimes  
WT/TPR/G/378, page 29 -30, paragraphs 2.56 and 2.57  
Section 2 of the Secretariat Report, page 29, states that in September 2017, an Investment Service 
Centre, which functions as a one -stop shop, was established by Vanuatu Investment Promotion 
Agency (VIPA) on a pilot basis. The In vestment Service centre was intended improve FDI facilitation 
across government by collating investment information in central location. Main government units 
involved in the one -stop shop service include the departments of Immigration and Labour, and the 
Vanuatu Tourism Office. The report also conveyed authorities' concerns that much work and effort 
is needed for this service centre to be fully functional.  
Section 4 of the Secretariat Report, page 30, notes that Vanuatu ranks 90th out of 190 economies 
on the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business Index in 2018. While it ranks high in getting credit 
(29th) and paying taxes (57th), it features low in dealing with construction permits (151st), trading 
across borders (143rd), enforcing contracts (135th), and star ting a business (128th). It takes around 
18 days to set up a limited liability company, involving seven steps and costing 44% of per capita 
income.  
Question(s):  
• Are you able to report on the effectiveness of VIPA's Investment Service Centre at 
improving FD I facilitation and whether there are plans to continue the pilot?  
 
Vanuatu is not able to report properly on the effectiveness of the VIPA's Investment Centre 
at improving FDI facilitation as yet. The Investment Service Centre is not piloted good 
enough in  line with the concept of the one -stop-shop. Additional resources are needed (staff 
including application management system) - this have not been achieved as yet.  
Vanuatu plan to continue the pilot - 
 
• Ongoing meetings with the respective agencies involve in facilitating FDI applications  
• Budget preparation - Applied for additional fund to increase resources;  
• Management Information System (MIS) - Seek assistance for funding to develop MIS 
to automate the investment applications processes.  
 
• To ensure certainty and predictability for foreign investors and the business 
community, what steps have Vanuatu taken, or intend to take, to improve the ease WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  of doing business in relation to construction permits, trading across borders, 
enforcing contract s, and starting a business?  
 
No real big measures have been taking place to improve the ease of doing business. 
However, steps intended to take place include - 
 
• Seek funding for the development a new Application Processing Management system 
(MIS);  
• With the MIS- will automate the investment application processes which will speed up 
the processing time frame and provides for the investors to register on line;  
 
SECTION 4: TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR, Sub -section title: Mining and energy  
 
WT/TPR/S/378, page 62 -63, paragraph 4.59, 4.64, 4.68  
The Secretariat notes in paragraph 4.59 that 83% of rural households still lack access to electricity, 
compared to 20% of urban households and paragraph 4.64 highlights that the Vanuatu Utilities and 
Infrastructure (VUI) provide s micro solar installations to those in need. In paragraph 4.68 the report 
states that due to cross subsidization small domestic customers in Vanuatu were charged 
significantly less and high domestic users charged more than the regional average.  
 
Question(s):  
 
• New Zealand recognises the development needs of low income households and 
encourages Vanuatu to consider additional measures to increase access to basic 
energy services.  What targets does Vanuatu have for how it will increase the 
proportion o f access to energy in rural areas?   
 
The Department of Energy (DoE) under the Ministry of Climate Change do have a National Energy 
Road Map (NERM) which was endorsed in 2013 and was later reviewed and updated in 2015. The 
NERM is the policy framework for d eveloping the energy sector in Vanuatu and that includes the 
targets and strategy plans for rural electrification in rural areas.  
As per NERM, the targets set for Accessible Energy for Rural areas or Off -grid areas are as mentioned 
below:  
- Aims to connect 60% of Households in off -grid areas (rural areas) by year 2020 and 
100% by year 2030  
- Aims to connect 80% of Institutions in off -grid areas by year 2020 and 100% by year 
2030 
 
With the long  term targets as mentioned above, the government also have these imp lementation 
plan, investments and actions which are on -going at the moment with objectives such as providing 
individual or community level solutions to extend electricity access to rural, off -grid areas where grid 
extension is not cost -effective.  
 
• How doe s the Government ensure that the tariff structure for separate customer 
categories does not dis -advantage larger consumers and commercial business 
growth and development?  
 
Since the awarding of the Concession Contracts in the 1990's, the Government establi shed the 
Utilities Regulatory Authority (the 'Authority') in 2007 as the economic and standards regulator for 
electricity and water supply utilities in Vanuatu. The Government's intention in setting up the 
Authority among others was to review/ determine th e tariffs charged by regulated entities in 
Vanuatu. Tariff structure design is a component of tariff determination that the Authority may be 
required to do.  
 
Since 2010, there have been two reviews conducted by the Authority on the electricity tariff. In 2018 
the Authority issued the second UNELCO (the 'concessionaire') electricity tariff for Tanna, Malekula 
and Efate. The Authority's decision was disputed by the concessionaire and is up for arbitration.The 
establishment of the Authority has been a major s ource of confidence and has already provided 
assurances on the Government's part to ensure that the electricity market in Vanuatu is conducive 
for commercial business growth and development.  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  Secondly, the current tariff structure concept was introduced a nd in effect since the establishment 
of the concession contract between the concessionaires and the Government in 1986 applicable in 
concessions in Port Vila, Luganville, Lenakel and Lakatoro. When a new concessionaire took over in 
Luganville in 2011, the tariff structure in principle remained intact with slight adjustments applicable 
specifically. The tariff structure as established in 1986 is updated accordingly and the currently 
effective structure is detailed below:  
 
Customer Type  Vatu (P) per kWh  Fixed Charge  
Domestic Customers:  
- 1st Tranche 0 to 60kWh  
- 2nd Tranche 61 to 120 kWh  
- 3rd Tranche Over 121 kWh  0.34 X P  
1.21 X P  
3.00 X P  None  
None  
None  
Low Voltage Users (Household)  1.21 X P  5 X P  
Low Voltage Users – Business 
License Holders  0.87 X P  20 X P  
Public Lighting  0.54 X P  None  
High Voltage Users  0.70 X P  25 X P  
 
In light of the above tariff structure shared, generally all customer types are entitled to compensate 
the utility fo r fixed charge (subscription requirements or overall system capacity required from utility 
by customer) and variable charge (based on electricity consumption).  
b. In the above structure, domestic customers (low income earners typical in Vanuatu with no sta ble 
income yet residing in town) are not liable to pay a fixed charge and are subsidized based on the 
level of their monthly consumption.  
 
Domestic consumers exploiting power between the 2nd and 3rd Tranches (usually are middle -class 
citizens) alongside lo w voltage users (high income earning citizens) are in fact compensating cost of 
service for other customer types. While the subsidy burden in monetary terms is least felt by 
individual customer in these customer classes, the overall subsidy extracted is si gnificant given  
the substantive customer base for the domestic and low voltage users. They (domestic and low 
voltage users) approximately compose 90% of the overall customer base.  
For high voltage and commercial/business users, while fixed charges to them are essential as it 
quantifies the level of supply (or overall generation capacity) they constantly require from the utility, 
their (high voltage or commercial users) variable charge are in fact subsidised as aforementioned. 
Thus the tariff structure is al so a mechanism utilized in promoting usage from high voltage users 
while encouraging business growth and development.  
 
In light of the above current tariff structure and discussions, no other incentivize tariff mechanisms 
are in practise e.g. time of day tariff. That said, the Authority has developed and proposed a Business 
Development Incentive Tariff (BDI Tariff) in 2014 to make use of the Utility's excess generation 
capacity idle even during peak -demand periods. The BDI tariff proposals would result red uction in 
both the fixed and variable charges for large/business users but is subject to benefit a certain 
number of large/business customers given it is limitedly based on the amount of excess capacity. 
The concessionaire challenged the Decision in court on the grounds that the Authority has no legal 
power to issue such tariff in relation to their concession contract with no contention over the 
technicality of the propose tariff. The court ruled in Unelco's favour based on the irregular legal 
framework we have where the legislation (the URA Act No. 11 of 2007) limits its own application 
viz-a-viz the concession contract entered into prior to the coming into force of the legislation.  
 
REPORT BY VANUATU (W T/TPR/G/378)  
SECTION 1 Macroeconomic Performance  
WT/TP R/G/378, page 3, paragraph 1.4  
Section 1 of the Vanuatu Report, page 3, refers to the risk associated with the increasing and 
unpredictable impact of natural disasters on the productive sectors. In response the Government 
has place emphasis on productive p olicy to assist farmers in developing disaster resilient crops.  
Question(s):  
• Are you able to elaborate on the measures being explore by the Government to 
assist farmers to produce disaster resilient crops?  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  The specific objective for disaster risk reductio n, adaptation and mitigation and climate resilient 
agriculture are;  
1. Conserve genetic resources and materials – collect and maintain the genetic pool of all 
agricultural produce (apply to farmers field as well); promo te active exchange of genetic 
materials with research institutions and other stakeholders based on "Material Transfer 
Agreement" mainly climatic resilient corps.  
2. Increased production of climate resilient crops through the introduction of provincial tractors 
to support farmers with sufficient pla nting materials and food stock before, during and after 
a disaster  
3. Establishment provincial food basket at farmers field and distributions of climate resilient 
crops during field day and national events.  
4. Provide awareness and training on best agricultural farming practices to mitigate impact of 
disaster and climate risk.  
• With the increased likelihood of crop failure as a result of extreme weather 
exacerbated by climate change, what precautionary measures does Vanuatu have 
in place to financially  support the productive sector?  
 
With the New Agriculture Act that was passed in parliament in July 2018; it provides avenues and 
empowering and supporting the work carried out by the Department. To improve the potential for 
Agriculture to contribute to jo b creation and employment opportunities as stipulated in the NSDP & 
OPSP. Furthermore, it will also contribute towards the Government's efforts in improving its food 
security system, adaptive capacity to climate change, improved capacity for disaster risk reduction 
and mitigation and improved capacity to respond to disasters. It will also facilitate the ability and 
ease to access domestic and export markets, improved access to credit and ability to increase and 
sustain production  
 
SECTION 2 Trade Policies a nd Practice  
WT/TPR/G/378, page 4, paragraphs 2.3 and 2.5  
Section 2 of the Vanuatu Report, page 4, highlights the growing importance of services in Vanuatu, 
which now accounts for approximately 69% of GDP. The services based economy is also a notable 
provider of employment, particularly for the urban population.  
 
Section 2 of the Vanuatu Report, page 4, also notes the Government's launch of a "trade 
mainstreaming" programme. The ambition of this programme is to ensure that trade -related policies 
can in form the decision -making process of all the entities whose decisions influence the country's 
development agenda.  
 
Question(s):  
• Of the 69% contribution to GDP by Vanuatu's service based economy, what 
proportion of this is attributable to the tourism sector?  
80%  
• Which sectors comprise Vanuatu's service based economy and what proportion 
does each sector hold?  
 
o Transport  
o Travel  
o Telecommunication  
o Insurance  
o Financial  
o Other business services  
 
What mechanisms or channels will the trade mainstreaming programme use to 
ensure the prevalence of trade policy in the minds of decision makers?  Through the 
National Trade Development Committee deliberations.  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  • As a PACER Plus signatory, will Vanuatu's trade mainstreaming programme 
accommodate for regulatory changes requi red upon the ratification of PACER 
Plus?)  Yes 
 
WT/TPR/G/378, page 37, section 3.1.6  
Section 3.2.6 describes the legal basis for anti -dumping, countervailing or safeguard measures.  
 
Question:  
 
• Has Vanuatu any concerns or experience of countries dumping product after 
natural disasters? We would welcome any details or comments if this is an issue.  
 
Vanuatu has raised concerns with countries dumping expired medications, foodstuffs etc or 
perhaps at time of import there were still of use. But due to the mane r and capacity of distributing 
relief supplies which must be efficient and accountable, donations "in kind" are hard to store and 
distribute or even manage. After natural disasters Vanuatu has consistently requested financial 
assistance as the best way to address the reconstruction, rehabilitation process. And food security 
measures at home by planting resilient crops are also good options for Vanuatu.  
 
WT/TPR/G/378, page 24, section 2.3.2.1.3  
This section on PACER and PACER Plus notes that Vanuatu signed PACER Plus in September 2017.  
 
Question:  
 
• How is Vanuatu progressing towards ratification of PACER Plus and what is the 
current estimated timeframe for Vanuatu to progress all of its domestic processes 
to enable ratification to take place?  
 
Vanuatu is prog ressing towards of ratification of PACER Plus. The ratification will be 
completed in 2019.  
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  THE EUROPEAN UNION  
WT/TPR/S/378 – WTO Secretariat's Report  
 
1 ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT  
Paragraph 1.5, page 12  
The Secretariat's report states that "…The labour market is characterized by a high degree of 
informality."  
 
EU Question N° 1  
Does Vanuatu consider the ratification of the ILO Convention 138 on minimum age? When 
does Vanuatu plan to fulfil the reporting obligations to the ILO on the ratified fundamental 
ILO labour conventions?  
 
Vanuatu has note ratified Convention 138. However, most of the provisions are applied in all forms 
of employment in Vanuatu. Hence, Vanuatu Government is considering Convention 138 and applies 
to any form of sections wi thin Vanuatu.   
 
Reporting are done on an annual basis and with Vanuatu we ought to submit our reports on how the 
Vanuatu Government implement the 8 ratified conventions to ILO.  Vanuatu has not submit the report 
for the past 2 years due to capacity constrai nts with no national resources allocated to completing 
reports and working closing with major stakeholders who plays vital role with the ratified 
conventions.  
 
Vanuatu will take into consideration the outstanding reports and other important tasks within th e 
Labour Department and allocate the limited resources to address this shortcoming.  
 
Vanuatu under the ILO has ratified 8 conventions. However, as already mentioned, some of the 
provisions are applied and subsumed into Vanuatu laws.  
 
2 TRADE AND INVESTME NT REGIMES  
Paragraph 2.16, page 21  
The Secretariat's report states that "…In January 2018, Vanuatu notified to the WTO its commitments 
in Categories A, B, and C with indicative dates for implementation (for Categories B and C); it has 
not yet ratified the  Trade Facilitation Agreement. " 
 
EU Question N° 2  
When does Vanuatu plan to ratify the Trade Facilitation Agreement?   
The ratification process of the TFA will commence in Vanuatu in 2019.  
 
Paragraph 2.22, page 23  
The Secretariat's report states that "…The members of the MSG Trade Agreement include Fiji, Papua 
New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. In 2016, the Agreement was revised with the 
intention of extending the coverage of goods to those covering trade in services, labour mobility, 
and cross -border investment. Vanuatu has not signed the revised Agreement."  
 
EU Question N° 3 
When does Vanuatu plan to sign the revised Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Trade 
Agreement?  
 
Vanuatu will sign the revised Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Trade Agreement when it is ready 
to do so.  
 
3 TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE  
3.1 Measures directly affecting imports  
3.1.5. Import prohibitions, restrictions, and imports  
Paragraph 3.30, page 36  
According to the Secretariat Report, Vanuatu prohibits the import  of "… (2) beef in any form 
originating from Europe, as set out under the Food (Control) Act [CAP 228] (Prohibition of Beef from 
Europe Order No. 53 of 2001).... " 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  EU Question N° 4 
The EU would like to know the reasons for Vanuatu to maintain such a prohibition since 
2001?  
This was put in place as a control for to Mad Cow Disease (BSE) due to the outbreak Europe and the 
UK in the late 1990 's. Not relevant any more.  
Prohibition on Import of Beef from Europe [Cap 228]  
Commencement: 20 June 2001  
PROHIBI TION ON IMPORT OF BEEF FROM EUROPE  
Order 53 of 2001  
To provide for the prohibition on the import of beef and products containing beef in any form from 
Europe.  
1. Ban on the import of beef  
A person must not import any beef from Europe.  
2. Ban on the import  of beef products  
A person must not import a product that contains beef in any form from Europe.  
 
3.3 Measures Affecting Production and Trade  
Paragraph 3.3.7.2, page 48  
 
EU Question N° 5 
When is the timeline for Vanuatu to accede to further international agreements in the area 
of industrial property?   
In regards to acceding to international agreements in the area of Industrial Property, will depend on 
how get our internal administrative systems in place and our capacity to comply with obligations, 
before w e accede.  
 
4 TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR  
4.1 Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries  
Paragraph 4.14, page 52  
The Secretariat's report states that "At the time of accession to the WTO, the authorities stated that 
Vanuatu provided virtually no monetary grants to agricultural producers. In 2012, agricultural 
producers were among the businesses eligible for incentives offered through the Business Licence 
Committee, and the Customs Department. These incentives included exemption from business 
licensing requirements, special loans at relatively low interest rates from commercial banks, and 
special exemptions accorded by the customs and tax authorities.  It is not clear to the Secretariat if 
these incentives are still offered. "  
 
EU Question N° 6  
Could Vanuatu explain wh ich of the incentives offered through the Business Licence 
Committee are still open for the agricultural sector? Has there been a budgetary outlay 
for these measures during the budget year 2015 and 2016?  
None. There was no budgetary outlay for those measur ers in 2015/2016.  
 
Paragraph 4.15, page 53  
The Secretariat's report states that "At the same time, the authorities also state that Vanuatu had 
aid-financed domestic support programmes for agriculture.  Small -holders of coffee were provided 
with free planting materials and a subsidy on the purchasing price. The Vanuatu Commodities 
Marketing Board (VCMB) regulated the "beach" (farm -gate) price of copra on an ad hoc basis by 
using surpluses generated from t rading activities and transfers of Lomé Convention funds from the 
commodity price stabilization scheme (Stabex) of the European Union. No information was made 
available to the Secretariat as to whether these prices are still regulated."  
 
EU Question N° 7  
Could Vanuatu explain whether there still exists a subsidy programme for purchasing 
coffee, and if so, at which price level it is applied ? Could Vanuatu explain if any support is 
given to copra producers?  
There is not subsidy programme for purchasing coffe e. There are no support given to copra 
producers.  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  WT/TPR/G /378 – Government 's Report  
 
3 TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR  
Paragraph 3.5, page 5 
The report states that "The Government strategy for alleviating the proportion of the population 
living under poverty is expressed in the vision of the Overarching Productive Sector Policy which 
states that "through substantial increase in primary production, processing and value adding there 
will be good jobs and income for a very significant number of Ni - Vanuatu"."  
EU Question N° 8  
The mentioned "Overarching Productive Sector Policy" covered 2012 -2017. Are there any 
plans to update the OPSP?  
There are plans to update the OPSP. The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry, Fisheries, and 
Biosecurity is currently in t he process of doing that review.  
 
4 TRADE POLICY – INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK  
Paragraph 4.1, page 12  
The report states that  "Trade in Vanuatu is guided by the Trade Policy Framework, which is the 
overarching sector policy for Trade. .." 
 
EU Question N° 9 
The TPF covered the period 2012 -2017. Could you provide some more information on the 
ongoing TPF update? Are there any new policy orientations?  
The Trade Policy Framework Update is being done in two phases. The first is for the cross -cutting 
chapters, and the second phase will focus on specific sub -sectors. The first phase is nearing 
completion – however, before and new policy directions can be shared, these will need to be formally 
signed off by the Vanuatu authorities.  
 
7 CONCLUSION  
Paragraph 7.3, page 9 
The report states that "… as Vanuatu works towards graduation from LDC status …  
 
EU Question N° 10 
What steps is Vanuatu taking to prepare for its forthcoming graduation from LDC status 
and the associated loss of trade preferences (e.g. EBA)?  
Vanuatu is cur rently developing it 's graduation strategy. The associated loss of trade preferences 
desires Vanuatu to consider such preferences with Japan, China and others - and the EC with a 
possibly an Economic Partnership Agreement.  
 
THE E UROPEAN UNION  – FOLLOW -UP QUESTIO N 
3 TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE  
 
EU initial question No 4 : The EU would like to know the reasons for Vanuatu to maintain 
such a prohibition since 2001?  
 
Answer : This was put in place as a control for to Mad Cow Disease (BSE)  due to the outbreak Europe 
and the UK in the late 1990's. Not relevant any more.  
Prohibition on Import of Beef from Europe [Cap 228]  
Commencement: 20 June 2001  
PROHIBITION ON IMPORT OF BEEF FROM EUROPE  
Order 53 of 2001  
To provide for the prohibition o n the import of beef and products containing beef in any form from 
Europe.  
1. Ban on the import of beef  
A person must not import any beef from Europe.  
2. Ban on the import of beef products  
A person must not import a product that contains beef in any fo rm from Europe.  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  EU follow -up question : Could Vanuatu confirm that import of beef from Europe are 
allowed ? When was the Order 53 of 2001 revoked?  
This law was initiated due to BSE concerns in the 90 's and is not relevant today. This order has not 
been offi cially revoked but should be.  
 
_______________  
 
 
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  THE UNITED STATES  
1 ECONOMIC ENVIRONME NT 
1.1 Main Features of the Economy  
Page 12, paragraph 1.5:  The Secretariat 's report notes that Vanuatu 's labour market is 
characterized by a high degree of informality.  
 
• Has Vanuatu enacted any measures to lower the degree of informality within 
its domestic labour market?  
 
2 TRADE AND INVESTME NT REGIMES  
2.3 Trade Agreements and Arrangements  
2.3.2 Regional  and preferential agreements  
2.3.2.1 Regional trade agreements (reciprocal)  
2.3.2.1.1 MSG Trade Agreement  
Page 23, paragraph 2.22:  The Secretariat 's report notes that Vanuatu has not signed the revised 
MSG Trade Agreement.  
 
• When will Vanuatu sign the revised MSG Trade Agreement?  
 
3 TRADE POLICIES AND  PRACTICES BY MEASUR E 
3.1 Measures Directly Affecting Imports  
3.1.1 Customs procedures, valuation, and requirements  
Page 31, paragraph 3.4:  The Secretariat 's report describes Va nuatu 's risk management system 
for imports. The text states, "About 26% of consignments are directed to the red channel, and 
another 26% to the yellow channel, while 48% are allocated to the green channel."  
 
• On what basis are consignments assigned to each  of the three channels?  
 
Consignments are assigned to each of the three channels based on the selectivity criteria 
automated in the ASYCUDA system. The selectivity criteria also known as risk indicator 
are reviewed on a quarterly basis to ensure the rules are effective and so address the 
risk to improve voluntary compliance.  
 
Page 31, paragraph 3.4:  The Secretariat 's report also states, "Low -risk shipments (green) are not 
subject to physical examination or documentary review, unless randomly selected." The text goes 
on to note that Vanuatu seeks to increase the proportion of entries that fall under the green channel.  
• What percentage of entries categorized as "low risk" were subject to physical 
inspection of documentary review?  
 
Low risk consignments are no t subject to physical inspection of documentary review. 
The randomly selected low risk consignments which are subject to documentary 
reviewed are generated by the risk management systems.  
 
According to the latest report, 56% of the consignment are conside red low risk and 
channeled to green lane, only 1% are medium risk and channeled to yellow lane while 
22% are high risk and channeled to red lane. The rest of the consignments which is 21% 
are channeled to blue lane for post clearance audit checks.  
 
• What s teps is Vanuatu taking to achieve this goal? When do you expect the goal 
to be obtained?  
 
Page 31, paragraph 3.7:  To comply with the WTO Custom 's Valuation Agreement, Vanuatu 
adopted the Import Duties (Consolidation) (Amendment) Act of 2013 No.29 yet has not notified the 
Secretariat of the Committee on Customs Valuation.  
 
• When will Vanuatu notify the Committee on Customs Valuation of the Import 
Duties (Consolidation) (Amendment) Act of 2013?  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 15 - 
 
  The Customs valuation is covered under schedule 2 of the Import Duties Act CAP 91 and 
Customs will work with the country WTO contact point to make notification to the 
Secretariat in 2019. The adoption of the Valuation Agreement within the Customs Act 
was developed and notified to the WTO in 1998 who made comments on the draft before 
ratification by Vanuatu 's Parliament.  
 
Page 31, paragraph 3.8:  In January 2018, Vanuatu notified its category A, B, and C commit ments 
under the Trade Facilitation Agreement. However, as of August 2018, Vanuatu has not ratified the 
WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
 
• What steps in the national process remain before Vanuatu is able to ratify the 
WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement?  
 
Vanuatu has established the National Trade Facilitation Steering Committee and has 
organized the meetings which gather together the agencies to discuss their issues, 
challenges. The next stage is for the ratification process to go for Council of Minister 's 
consideration and approval for the process to be continued and a ratification bill for 
Parliamentary approval and assented by the President of Vanuatu.  
 
• Can Vanuatu provide a target date for when it intends to ratify the WTO Trade 
Facilitation Agreement?  
 
Vanuatu intends to ratify the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement in before December 
2019.  
 
3.1.2 Rules of origin  
Page 32, paragraph 3.9: The Secretariat 's report states: "Vanuatu does not maintain non -
preferential rules of origin."  However, in document G/RO /W/171, a report from the WTO Secretariat 
on the Committee of Rules of Origin, page 6, section C indicates that Vanuatu does has not yet 
submitted a notification under Article 5 of the Agreement on Rules of Origin.  
 
• When does Vanuatu intend to submit such a notification to the Secretariat?  
 
Since Vanuatu does not maintain any non -preferential rules of origin, any notification 
under article 5 of the agreement on rules of origin will state this fact.  
 
3.1.5 Import prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  
Page 36, paragraph 3.31:  The Secretariat 's report notes that Vanuatu has not notified its import 
licensing procedures to the WTO, nor has it answered the questionnaire on import licensing.  
 
• When will Vanuatu notify the its import licensing procedures to t he WTO and 
answer the related questionnaire?  
 
Vanuatu is taking measures to address this lack of information. As part of Vanuatu 's 
commitment in the TFA and as it works towards it 's trade portal programme, this task 
will be addressed and information generated from that programme may allow Vanuatu 
to so notify the licensing procedures in Vanuatu. This exercise is expected to be 
completed in 2020.  
 
3.1.6 Anti -dumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures  
Page 37, paragraph 3.32:  The Secretariat 's report states that the Import Duties (Consolidation) 
(Amendment) Act of 2013, the legal basis for antidumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures, 
has not been notified to the relevant WTO committees for review.  
 
• When will Vanuatu notify this legisl ation?  
 
Vanuatu will notify the legislation in 2019 and is general giving powers to Customs to 
investigate only.  
 
Page 37, paragraphs 3.33 and 3.34:  Vanuatu recently notified that it had not established a 
competent authority to initiate and conduct antidu mping, countervailing duty, and safeguard WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 16 - 
 
  investigations. (See, e.g., G/ADP/N/193/VUT (dated 27 July 2016). Yet, the Secretariat 's report 
identifies the authorities that are responsible for carrying out investigations, as well as decision -
making for imposi ng definitive measures.  
 
• Please clarify the discrepancy. If an updated notification is necessary, please 
advise when Vanuatu will make such a notification to the relevant WTO 
committees.  
 
The Import Duties Act as amended gives powers of Customs officials to conduct an 
investigation. Neither has Vanuatu established a competent authority to initiate 
investigations nor set up any authority to make any decision on the imposition of 
definitive meas urers.  
 
Page 37, paragraph 3.35:  Vanuatu has not made any notifi cations under Article 16.4 of the 
Agreement on Implementation of Article VI of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 and 
Article 25.11 of the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures. Please be advised that 
Members have consistently sub mitted such notifications even if no  measures have been taken 
(e.g. nil notifications).  
 
• When will Vanuatu make these notifications to the respective WTO committees 
under the agreements identified above.  
 
The Vanuatu WTO contact point will be responsible to provide notification to the 
respective WTO committee under both article 16.4 and article 25.11 in 2019 . 
 
3.3 MEASURES AFFECTI NG PRODUCTION AND TR ADE 
3.3.2 Standards and other technical requirements  
Pages 39 -40, paragraph 3.52: The Secretariat 's report notes "Since its accession, Vanuatu has 
not made any TBT notifications to the WTO."  
 
• Has Vanuatu developed any technical regulations that need to be notified? If 
so, when will they be notified?  
 
So far only one technical regulation for Energy Efficiency has been gazetted. But this has 
not been notified. Subject to capacity constraints being addressed, not ification will be 
done in 2019.  
 
Page 40, paragraph 3.53:  The Secretariat 's report notes that authorities are making efforts to 
bring the kava  standard to the Codex to develop it into an international standard.  
 
• Please provide an update regarding these efforts.  
 
Kava standards are currently being developed for submission to Codex to adopt as a 
food and beverage. The process is ongoing.  
 
3.3.4 Competition policy and price controls  
3.3.4.1 Competition policy  
Page 42, paragraph 3.66:  The Secretariat 's report states that the Vanuatu authorities are in the 
process of preparing a Competition and Consumer Protect Act.  
 
• Please provide an update on that process.  
 
First and foremost, our objective is to get the COM to approve the Competition Policy. 
Once the Competition Policy is adopted by Vanuatu, then it may pave way for the 
establishment of the Competition Act, through the processes of formulating  a draft 
Competition Bill to be endorse by DCO, COM and Parliament.  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 17 - 
 
  3.3.4.3 Price controls  
Page 43, paragraph 3.69:  The Secretariat 's report notes that in February 2018, the Ministry of 
Finance and Economic Management appointed an Interim Price Controller  with the intention of 
setting up a Price Control Bureau and of implementing Vanuatu 's Price Control Act [CAP 86].  
 
• Please provide an update on the status of the Price Control Bureau.  
 
An interim Price Controller was appointed for a short period of time and has since left 
office. The Price Control Bureau is not functioning at present. This matter will be 
addressed as part of the Competition Policy framework if it is implemented by Vanuat u.  
 
3.3.5 State trading, state -owned enterprises, and privatization  
3.3.5.1 State trading arrangements  
Page 44, paragraph 3.71:  The Secretariat 's report states that the VCMB was in the process of 
being liquidated, but no progress has been made on that sin ce 2011.  
 
• Please provide an update to that process.  
 
Page 44, paragraph 3.71:  In addition, Vanuatu has not made any notifications to the Working 
Party on State Trading Enterprises (covering 2012 -2018), despite having a biennial requirement to 
do so even i f there are no state trading enterprises to notify.  
 
• When will Vanuatu make the requisite notifications?  
 
3.3.7 Copyrights and related rights  
Page 48, paragraph 3.92:  The Secretariat 's report that "authorities are preparing to establish a 
Collective Society for copyright owners to register and commercialize their works. " 
 
• What are the benefits for a copyright owner to register their works with a 
Collective Society?  
 
The Collective Society will be aimed to take charge in licensing the economic rights of 
the copyright owners to radio stations, hotels, and bars etc. The society will collect 
royalties and distribute to the owners.  
 
• Does "commercialize" include licensing or other types of activities?  
 
Quite likely "Yes".  
 
• What type of oversight would the government of Vanuatu have over the 
Collective Societies?  
 
The initial thoughts are that the society is obliged to produce an annual report to the 
government.  
 
4 TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR  
4.1 Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries  
4.1.2 Fisheries  
4.1.2.3 Domestic Policies  
4.1.2.3.1 Institutional and legislative framework  
Page 58, paragraph 4.43:  The Secretariat 's report notes that after each fishing trip, operators of 
foreign fishing vessels must pay: up to 5% of the total value of the catch caught within Vanuatu 
waters, and landed domestically; or 5% of the total value of the catch caught within Vanuatu waters, 
and landed overseas. According to authorities however these measures are not applied in practice.  
 
• Can Vanuatu provide more information as to why these measures are not 
applied?  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 18 - 
 
  This policy has not been able to be implemented because the Tuna fishery in Vanuatu waters 
continues to be exploited by foreign fishing vessels based outside Vanuatu. The policy was designed 
to be implemented when tuna would to be processed onshore in Vanuatu.  
 
Currently Vanuatu does not know exactly how much tuna is being extracted from Vanuatu waters 
other than what is estimated from catch logs that are supplied by the licenced operators, which is 
not always in a timel y manner.  
 
Having on shore processing will enable Vanuatu to monitor and calculate easily with a higher degree 
of confidence the actual amount of tuna being extracted, put a value to this and charge the 5% 
levy. In essence Vanuatu would be moving away from  relying heavily on collecting resource rent 
from foreign licence fees which really cannot be increased significantly over time, to collecting 5% 
of the value of the catch which is estimated to be significantly higher than what Vanuatu is getting 
now. 
 
In summary, this policy will be implemented once onshore tuna processing of tuna is realized.  
 
THE UNITED STATES - ADDITIONAL REPLIES  
1 ECONOMIC ENVIRONME NT 
1.1 Main Features of the Economy  
 
Page 12, paragraph 1.5:  The Secretariat's report notes that Vanuatu' s labour market is 
characterized b y a high degree of informality.  
 
• Has Vanuatu enacted any measures to lower the degree of informality within 
its domestic labour market?  
 
The Government is currently addressing this very important sector through vocational  and 
education training centers.  
 
2 TRADE AND INVESTME NT REGIMES  
2.3 Trade Agreements and Arrangements  
2.3.2 Regional and preferential agreements  
2.3.2.1 Regional trade agreements (reciprocal)  
2.3.2.1.1 MSG Trade Agreement  
Page 23, paragraph 2.22:  The Secretariat's report notes that Vanuatu has not signed t he revised 
MSG Trade Agreement.  
 
• When will Vanuatu sign the revised MSG Trade Agreement?  
 
 The Council of Ministers (COM) has approved the Agreement and t hus signing will 
 happen in 2019.  
 
3 TRADE POLICIES AND P RACTICES BY MEASURE  
3.1 Measures Directly Affecting Imports  
 3.1.1 Customs procedures, valuation, and requirements  
Page 31, paragraph 3.4:  The Secretariat's report describes Vanuatu's risk management system 
for imports. The text states , "About 26% of consignments are directed to the red channel, and 
another 26% to the yellow channel, while 48% are allocated to the green channel. " 
 
• On what basis are consignments assigned to each of the three channels?  
 
Consignments are assigned to each of the three channels based on the selectivity criteria 
automated in the ASYCUDA system. The selectivity criteria also known as risk indicator 
are reviewed on a quarterly basis to ensure the rules are effective and so address the 
risk to improve voluntary compliance.  
 
Page 31, paragraph 3.4:  The Secretariat's report also states, "Low -risk shipments (green) are not 
subject to physical examination or documentary review, unless randomly selected." The text goes 
on to note that Vanuatu seeks to increase the pro portion of entries that fall under the green channel.  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 19 - 
 
  • What percentage of entries categorized as "low risk" were subject to physical 
inspection of documentary review?  
 
Low risk consignments are not subject to physical inspection of documentary review. 
The randomly selected low risk consignments which are subject to documentary 
reviewed are generated by the risk management systems.  
 
According to the latest report, 56% of the consignment are considered low risk and 
channeled to green lane, only 1% are medium risk and channeled to yellow lane while 
22% are high risk and channeled to red lane. The rest of the consignments which is 21% 
are channeled to blue lane for post clearance audit checks .  
 
• What steps is Vanuatu taking to achieve this goal? When do y ou expect the goal 
to be obtained?  
 
Current effort we are doing to achieve this goal is a time release study (TRS) was 
conduct in July last year to identify the average time taken to release a shipment which 
falls in the result given above. Another TRS is schedule to happen any time sooner to 
measure the different. Measure will be taken thereafter to allocate the resources to 
where the weakness or caps are to be addressed. Also with the upgrade of the Customs 
computerize system from ASYCUDA ++ to ASYCUDA Wo rld, automation of risk 
management has improved and we are currently working on the selectivity reporting to 
assist the selectivity committee to a review that is more representative and we are 
actually treating the risk and not creating a hindrance to trad e facilitation. Also our 
current efforts to implement the Single window project from early next year will 
contribute a lot in reducing the time taken  to processing and release goods given all 
processes and risk indicator are all automated.  
 
Page 31, paragr aph 3.7:  To comply with the WTO Custom's Valuation Agreement, Vanuatu 
adopted the Import Duties (Consolidation) (Amendment) Act of 2013 No.29 yet has not notified the 
Secretariat of the Committee on Customs Valuation.  
 
• When will Vanuatu notify the Committ ee on Customs Valuation of the Import 
Duties (Consolidation) (Amendment) Act of 2013?  
 
The Customs valuation is covered under schedule 2 of the Import Duties Act CAP 91 and 
Customs will work with the country WTO contact point to make notification to the 
Secretariat in 2019. The adoption of the Valuation Agreement within the Customs Act 
was developed and notified to the WTO in 1998 who made comments on the draft before 
ratification by Vanuatu 's Parliament.  
 
Page 31, paragraph 3.8:  In January 2018, Vanuatu n otified its category A, B, and C commitments 
under the Trade Facilitation Agreement. However, as of August 2018, Vanuatu has not ratified the 
WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
 
• What steps in the national process remain before Vanuatu is able to ratify the 
WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement?  
 
Vanuatu has established the National Trade Facilitation Steering Committee and has 
organized the meetings which gather together the agencies to discuss their issues, 
challenges. The next stage is for the ratification pro cess to go for Council of Minister 's 
consideration and approval for the process to be continued and a ratification bill for 
Parliamentary approval and assented by the President of Vanuatu.  
 
• Can Vanuatu provide a target date for when it intends to ratify the WTO Trade 
Facilitation Agreement?  
 
Vanuatu intends to ratify the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement in before 
December  2019.  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 20 - 
 
  3.1.2 Rules of origin  
 
Page 32, paragraph 3.9: The Secretariat's report states: "Vanuatu does not maintain 
non-preferential rules of origin."  However, in document G/ RO/W/171, a report from the 
WTO Secretariat on the Committee of Rules of Origin, page 6, section C indicates that Vanuatu does 
has not yet submitted a notification under Article 5 of the Agreement on Rules of Origin . 
 
• When does Vanuatu intend to submit such a notification to the Secretariat?  
 
Since Vanuatu does not maintain any non -preferential rules of origin, any notification 
under article 5 of the agreement on rules of origin will state this fact.  
 
3.1.5 Import prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  
Page 36, paragraph 3.31:  The Secretariat's report notes that Vanuatu has not notified its import 
licensing procedures to the WTO, nor has it answered the que stionnaire on import licensing.  
 
• When will Vanuatu notify  the its import licensing procedures to the WTO and 
answer the related questionnaire?  
 
Vanuatu is taking measures to address this lack of information. As part of Vanuatu 's 
commitment in the TFA and as it works towards it 's trade portal programme, this task  
will be addressed and information generated from that programme may allow Vanuatu 
to so notify the licensing procedures in Vanuatu. This exercise is expected to be 
completed in 2020.  
 
3.1.6 Anti -dumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures  
Page 37, par agraph 3.32:  The Secretariat's report states that the Import Duties (Consolidation) 
(Amendment) Act of 2013, the legal basis for antidumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures, 
has not been notified to the relevant WTO committees for review.  
 
• When wil l Vanuatu notify this legislation?  
 
Vanuatu will notify the legislation in 2019 and is general giving powers to Customs to 
investigate only.  
 
Page 37, paragraphs 3.33 and 3.34:  Vanuatu recently notified that it had not established a 
competent authority to initiate and conduct antidumping, countervailing duty, and safeguard 
investigations. (See, e.g.  G/ADP/N/193/VUT (dated 27 July 2016). Yet, the Secretariat's report 
identifies t he authorities that are responsible for carrying out inve stigations, as well as 
decision -making for imposing definitive measures.  
 
• Please clarify the discrepancy. If an updated notification is necessary, please 
advise when Vanuatu will make such a n otifica tion to the relevant 
WTO  committees.  
 
The Import Duties Act as amended gives powers of Customs officials to conduct an 
investigation. Neither has Vanuatu established a competent authority to initiate 
investigations nor set up any authority to make any deci sion on the imposition of 
definitive measurers.  
 
Page 37, paragraph 3.35:  Vanuatu has not made any notifications under Article 16.4 of the 
Agreement on Implementation of Article VI of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 and 
Article 25.11 of the  Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures. Please be advised that 
Members have consistently submitted such notifications even if no  measures have been taken 
(e.g. nil notifications).  
 
• When will Vanuatu make these notifications to the respective W TO committees 
under the agreements identified above.  
 
The Vanuatu WTO contact point will be responsible to provide notification to the 
respective WTO committee under both article 16.4 and article 25.11 in 2019.  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 21 - 
 
  3.3 MEASURES AFFECTI NG PRODUCTION AND TR ADE 
3.3.2 Standards and other technical requirements  
Pages 39 -40, paragraph 3.52: The Secretariat's report notes "Since its accession, Vanuatu has 
not made any TBT notifications to the WTO. " 
 
• Has Vanuatu developed any technical regulations that need to be noti fied? If 
so, when will they be notified?  
 
So far only one technical regulation for Energy Efficiency has been gazetted. But this has 
not been notified. Subject to capacity constraints being addressed, noti fication will be 
done in 2019.  
 
Page 40, paragraph  3.53:  The Secretariat's report notes that authorities are making efforts to 
bring the kava standard to the Codex to develop it into an international standard.  
 
• Please provide an update regarding these efforts.  
 
Kava standards are currently being developed  for submission to Codex to adopt as 
a food and beverage. The process is ongoing.  
 
3.3.4 Competition policy and price controls  
3.3.4.1 Competition policy  
Page 42, paragraph 3.66:  The Secretariat's report states that the Vanuatu authorities are in the 
process of preparing a Competition and Consumer Protect Act.  
 
• Please provide an update on that process.  
 
First and foremost, our objective is to get the COM to approve the Competition  Policy. 
Once the Competition Policy is adopted by Vanuatu, then it may pave way for the 
establishment of the Competition Act, through the processes of formulating a draft 
Competition Bill to be endorse by DCO, COM and Parliament.  
 
3.3.4.3 Price controls  
Page 43, paragraph 3.69:  The Secretariat's report notes that in February 2018, the Ministry of 
Finance and Economic Management appointed an Interim Price Controller  with the intention of 
setting up a Price Control Bureau and of implementing Vanuatu' s Price Control Act [CAP 86].  
 
• Please provide an update on the status of the Price Control Bureau.  
 
An interim Price Controller was appointed for a short period of time and has since left 
office. The Price Control Bureau is not functioning at present. This matter will be 
addressed as part of the Competition Policy framework if it is implemented by Vanuat u.  
 
3.3.5 State trading, state -owned enterprises, and privatization  
3.3.5.1 State trading arrangements  
Page 44, paragraph 3.71:  The Secretariat's report states that the VCMB was in the process of 
being liquidated, but no progress has been made on that sin ce 2011.  
 
• Please provide an update to that process.  
 
 The process of liquidation is still in process.  
 
Page 44, paragraph 3.71:  In addition, Vanuatu has not made any notifications to the Working 
Party on State Trading Enterprises (covering 2012 -2018), despite having a biennial requirement to 
do so even if there are no state trading enterprises to notify.  
 
• When will Vanuatu make th e requisite notifications?  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 22 - 
 
   Vanuatu takes note and will complete the notification of States Trading Enterprises in 
 2019.  
 
3.3.7 Copyrights and related rights  
 
Page 48, paragraph 3.92:  The Secretariat's report that "authorities are preparing to establish  a 
Collective Society for copyright owners to register and commercialize their works. " 
 
• What are the benefits for a copyright owner to register their works with a 
Collective Society?  
 
The Collective Society will be aimed to take charge in licensing the economic rights of 
the copyright owners to radio stations, hotels, and bars etc. The society will collect 
royalties and distribute to the owners.  
 
• Does "commercialize" include licensing or other types of activities?  
 
Quite likely "Yes".  
 
• What type of over sight would the government of Vanuatu have over the 
Collective Societies?  
 
The initial thoughts are that the society is obliged to produce an annual report to the 
government.  
 
4 TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR  
4.1 Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries  
4.1.2 Fisher ies 
4.1.2.3 Domestic Policies  
4.1.2.3.1 Institutional and legislative framework  
Page 58, paragraph 4.43:  The Secretariat's report notes that after each fishing trip, operators of 
foreign fishing vessels must pay: up to 5% of the total value of the catch caught within Vanuatu 
waters, and landed domestically; or 5% of the total value of the catch caught within  Vanuatu waters, 
and landed overseas. According to authorities however these measur es are not applied in practice.  
 
• Can Vanuatu provide more information as to why these measures are not 
applied?  
 
This policy has not been able to be implemented because the Tuna fishery in Vanuatu 
waters continues to be exploited by foreign fishing vessels based outside Vanuatu. The 
policy was designed to be implemented when tuna would to be processed onshore in 
Vanuatu.  
 
Currently Vanuatu does not know exactly how much tuna is being extracted from 
Vanuatu waters other than what is estimated from catch logs that are supplied by the 
licenced operators, which is not always in a timely manner.  
 
Having on shore processing will enable Vanuatu to monitor and calculate easily with a 
higher degree of confidence the actual amount of tuna being extracted, put a value to 
this and charge the 5% levy.  In essence Vanuatu would be moving away from relying 
heavily on collecting resource rent from foreign licence fees which really cannot be 
increased significantly over time, to collecting 5% of the value of the catch which is 
estimated to be significantly higher than what Vanuatu is getting now.  
 
In summary, this policy will be implemented once onshore tuna  processing of tuna is 
realized.  
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 23 - 
 
  CANADA  
Section 1.3.2  
Paragraph 1.20  
 
Regarding Section 1.3.2 Trends and patterns in FDI of the Secretariat report  
 
1.20. The most recent peak in foreign direct investment into Vanuatu was in 2012, amounting to 
US$78 million (Table 1.6). The FDI inward stock was US$545 million in 2016; the main subsectors 
for FDI in Vanuatu were tourism, telecommunic ations, food, and wood processing. According to the 
authorities, the main investing countries are Australia, Japan, China and New Zealand. Vanuatu's 
vulnerability to natural disasters, the weakness of its infrastructure, its geographical isolation, and 
poorly protected property rights are some of the potential hindrances to investment.  
 
Question  
The report from the Secretariat notes "poorly protected property rights" as a potential 
hindrance to investment. Is Vanuatu considering any trade -related measures a s part of 
its trade policy strategy as a means to improve the protection of property rights?  
 
Vanuatu  is continuing to register Trademarks, Patent, and Design. Vanuatu received most of the 
applications from overseas clients. Vanuatu complies with the legal  process of examining applications 
and issuing trademark protection.  
Vanuatu has the option to consider additional measurers in future to improve protection of propery 
rights.  
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 24 - 
 
  JAPAN  
Report by the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/378)  
3 TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE  
3.3 Measures Affecting Production and Trade  
3.3.7 Intellectual property rights  
 
Question 1 Paragraph 3.85, Page 47 
Japan would like to know whether there are (i) any principal treaties in the field of 
intellectual property  which Vanuatu is planning to join, (ii) amendment of domestic law 
necessary to join such treaties, and (iii) the target schedule of joining such treaties 
respectively.  
 
Vanuatu is planning to accede to Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual Performances, Marrakesh  Treaty 
concerning copyright protection for people with disabilities, and WIPO Copyright Treaties.  
 
Question 2 Paragraph 3.88, Page 47  
Japan would like to know the scope of intellectual property rights which are the subject 
of suspension at the border with  respect to import shipments. In addition, Japan would 
like to know whether any suspension at the border ex officio with respect to import and/or 
export shipments has been implemented.  
 
Any counterfeit / pirated goods that infringe IP laws are confiscated either at the border or if already 
in the domestic market are seized and destroyed. Imports of goods which have violated copyright 
laws have been confiscated in the past.  
 
Question 3 Paragraph 3.89, Page 48  
Japan would like to know how applicants of paten ts and/or trademarks could identify the 
custom owners of the indigenous knowledge or culture to be given their prior consent to 
the grant.  
 
Once an application is receive, if the content of the application contains any element of indigenous 
culture it will  be referred to the Vanuatu National Council of Chiefs, the custodian of Vanuatu’s 
cultures and traditions, to ensure that prior consent is being sought before the application is being 
processed further. The situation may change should a Traditional Knowle dge and Expression of 
Culture is passed by Parliament. An authority will be established to determined Prior consent.  
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 25 - 
 
  ARGENTINA  
En el párrafo 6 del Informe de la Secretaría se señala que Vanuatu aún no ha ratificado el 
Acuerdo de Facilitación del Comercio, sin perjuicio de lo cual ha notificado a la OMC sus 
compromisos de las categorías A, B y C.  
 
1.- ¿Podría Vanuatu indicar si el mencionado Acuerdo está en curso de  aprobación? ¿Podría también 
indicar si está recibiendo la cooperac ión técnica necesaria para la implementación de sus 
compromisos de la  categoría C?  
 
Questions from Argentina  
At paragraph 6 of the Secretariat Report it is stated  that while Vanuatu has not yet ratified the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement , and without prejudice to it,  it has notified its Category A, B , and C 
commitments to the WTO.  
 
1.- Could Vanuatu please indicate if the above -mentioned Agreement is being approved? Could 
Vanuatu please indicate as well whether technical assistance is bei ng provided to the country in 
order to implement its Category C commitments?  
 
Response from Vanuatu  
The ratification process of the TFA will commence in Vanuatu in 2019. On the basis of the notification 
thus far, technical assistance will be requested for Category C commitments. A sequencing and 
implementation plan has been developed for all commitments a number of TAs already provided to 
Vanuatu on the transparency provisions.  
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 26 - 
 
  KOREA , REPUBLIC OF  
PART I: Questions Regarding the Secretariat Report   
 
Page 22 (Para 2.21)  
 
Vanuatu has engaged in RTAs, including: the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Trade Agreement, 
the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA), and the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic 
Relations Plus (PACER  Plus). PACER Plus has not yet entered into force (Table 2.3).  
 
Question 1  
Vanuatu seems to have only entered into RTAs with geographically neighboring countries. 
Are there any RTAs that are being promoted or planned with countries in other regions? 
Could Vanuatu please explain the goals and direction of Vanuatu's RTA policy?  
 
Vanuatu 's RTAs are with geographically with neighboring countries. This reflects the reality of 
Vanuatu 's trade performance and export markets where neighboring countries cover most of 
Vanuatu 's external trade in goods and services. Vanuatu 's preferential trade agreements are bound 
firstly by the vision to promote regional economic integration. Vanuatu 's trade agreements in future 
will need to take into account the graduation from LDC  status in 2020 and to protect or ensure 
Vanuatu 's other export interest some preferential trade consideration will have to be made with 
some of Vanuatu 's trading partners including China, Japan, the EC, New Caledonia (not a WTO 
member) and possibly UK (po st Brexit).  
 
Question 2  
Could Vanuatu please elaborate upon the reason why the PACER Plus has not enter into 
force yet?  
 
The PACER Plus has not yet entered into force as the minimum number of completed ratification by 
PACER Plus countries have yet to be notified. Vanuatu 's ratification process is planned for 2019.  
 
Page 25 (Table 2.4, Category D2 Fee)  
 
Annual fee ranges from VT 20,000 (US$200) to VT 1 million (US$10,000), depending on the gross 
turnover of the business.  
An additional VT 100,000 (US$1,000) was levied on every non -citizen principal or partner engaged 
in category D2 business.  
Non-citizens and non -resident foreign investors pay an additional annual fee of VT 100,000 
(US$1,000) for the processing of the inves tment application.  
 
Question 3  
Does the additional fee of the business license to be borne by every non -citizen principal 
or partner engaged in category D2 business and the additional annual fee for the 
processing of the investment application to non-citizens and non -resident foreign 
investors violate the national treatment principle?  
 
The non -citizen 's fee here relates to fees charged under the Bu siness Licence Act even if a 
Ni-Vanuatu employs non citizen in the business. Regarding D2 licences, the non -citizen fees do not 
apply. This requirement has been where non -citizens fee is no longer applicable - since 2010 to 
date.  
 
There is no violation of the national treatment principle.  
 
Page 31 (Para 3.3~3.4)  
 
The CIR maintains an electronic risk ma nagement system to identify high -risk shipments. Under 
these procedures, imports are assigned to one of three risk levels: red, yellow, or green. The level 
of risk is determined by the type of product, the country of origin, and past records of the importe r. 
Updates to the system are made on a quarterly basis. Shipments classified as high risk (red) are 
subject to physical examination and documentary review. Medium -risk shipments (yellow) are 
subject to documentary review. Low -risk shipments (green) are not  subject to physical examination 
or documentary review, unless randomly selected. About 26% of consignments are directed to the WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  red channel, and another 26% to the yellow channel, while 48% are allocated to the green channel. 
The authorities indicate that an increase in the share of the green channel is a policy objective.  
 
Question 4  
Vanuatu is already running an electronic risk management system, concentrating customs controls 
on high risk shipments and the expedited release of low risk shipments. Update s to the system are 
also made on a quarterly basis. According to the notification of category commitment under the TFA 
of Vanuatu (G/TFA/N/VUT/1), provisions of the TFA related to risk management are classified under 
the C category which requires a transit ional period and assistance for capacity building.  
 
Could Vanuatu please explain why risk management is designated under the C category 
and what kind of assistance is needed?  
 
Risk management is designed under category C because all border agencies are at  different levels 
of having in place their risk management plan (RMP). Assistance would be required to support in 
developing RMP for agencies who do not have the risk management plan at all and to assist in 
effectively implementing the RMP.  
 
Page 32~33 (Pa ra 3.8)  
 
In May 2014, Vanuatu benefitted from a WTO seminar to assess its needs with regards to trade 
facilitation and to help determine its category A commitments. Vanuatu notified its category A, B 
and C commitments in January 2018.1 Of its commitments u nder the Trade Facilitation Agreement 
(TFA), 12 are in category A, 12 in category B, and 12 in category C. As at March 2018, Vanuatu had 
not ratified the TFA. Pursuant to Article 195 of the Customs Act, decisions by customs may be 
appealed to a Customs App eal tribunal within 30 days of receiving the administrative decision. The 
authorities indicate that, as at mid -2018, no formal appeal procedures were in place, but that the 
drafting thereof is underway.  
 
Question 5  
Vanuatu notified its category A, B and C  commitments in January 2018 but has not ratified 
the TFA. Could Vanuatu please explain the reason it has not ratified the TFA?  
 
The process is progressing and Vanuatu will ratify the TFA in 2019.  
Page 35 (Para 3.20)  
 
In general, applied tariff rates are within their bound rates. For three tariff lines, however, the applied 
rates exceed their bindings (Table 3.3).  
 
Question 6  
Could Vanuatu please explain why the three tariff lines in table 3.3 have higher applied 
tariff rates than bound rates?  
 
The higher applied rates versus the bound rates arose from new tariff codes as Vanuatu adopted the 
latest versions of the Harmonised Commodity Description and Coding System and new national tariff 
sub-division at 8 digit level.  
 
Vanuatu did not have in place in the V anuatu Customs tariff 2 tariff lines where the applied rates are 
higher than their bound rate at the time of accession.  
 
For tariff item 0207.1410 the applied rate is 30% which is well below the bound rate of 55% for this 
tariff item.  
 
Regarding the other  two tariff item 2939.7100 and 2939.7900 the applied rate is 5% as against a 
supposedly bound rate of 0%. Vanuatu will take correct actions within the next 12 months.  
 
Page 36~37 (Para 3.31.)  
 
Certain goods are subject to import licensing (Table 3.5). The licences specify the conditions under 
which a product may be imported. Vanuatu has not notified its import licensing procedures to the 
WTO, nor has it answered the questionnaire on import licen sing. No information was made available 
on the cost of each permit or licence.  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  Page 38 (Para 3.42.)  
 
Various products are subject to licences or permits upon export (Table 3.6). No information was 
made available on the cost of each permit or license.  
 
Question 7  
There is a distinction between Automatic Licensing (which is simply a notification process) 
and Non -automatic Licensing (which requires inspection or approval procedures). May we 
understand that all of them (Table 3.5, Table 3.6) belong to the latt er? 
 
The Vanuatu import licenses are, for some automatic, so long as statutory fees are paid. Import 
licenses pertaining to the human health, animal and plant health may be issued subject to risk 
assessment according to biosecurity considerations. Import l icenses for controlled drugs in the 
pharmaceutical industry are subject to considerations regarding domestic controls, abuse and illegal 
substance usage in Vanuatu.  
 
Page 47 (Para 3.84)  
 
Apparently, Vanuatu does not intend to apply for accession to the WTO  GPA 
 
Question 8  
Are you considering to join the WTO -GPA or to participate as an observer in the WTO 
committee at a future time?  
 
No  
 
PART III: Other Questions  
 
Question 1 : 
The overview of the government procurement system (regulations, organizations and 
governance, procedures) seems insufficient. Why don 't you add the paragraph which 
explains the government procurement system of Vanuatu?  
 
Vanuatu Government procurement systems is regulated by the Vanuatu Tenders and Contracts Act. 
Goods and services below  the value of VT5 million (or approx. USD50,000) require three independent 
quotations before a decision is made as to supplier. Government procurement of goods and services 
over VT5 million have to go through public tender process which goes to the Tenders  Board who 
considers and make recommendations to the Council of Ministers to issue contracts.  
 
_______________  
 
 
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  CHINA  
Part I. Questions based on Report by the Secretariat  
 
Section 3.5 on page 31  
"Vanuatu has established a customs pre -adjudication system."  
 
Question 1  
Do applicants for the customs pre -adjudication include stakeholders overseas? What's the 
effective period of the awards of the customs pre -adjudication? What problems or 
challenges arise in implementing the pre -adjudication system?  
 
This is in reference to the customs Appeal Tribunal covered under part 16 of the Customs Act No. 7 
of 2013 as a given the opportunity to importers and or traders to appeal against the decision of the 
Director of Customs on any customs related matters. The cu stoms tribunal in covered in the Customs 
law of Vanuatu and is effective for the domestic jurisdiction only. A person not satisfied with the 
decision of the Director of Customs has 30 days to appeal to the Customs tribunal against the 
decision. Regarding t he challenges faced, the establishment of the Customs tribunal is still pending 
because the need to have a tribunal at this stage is not a priority. The establishment of the Tribunal 
will obviously arise when there is a need or when a case is required to b e heard.  
 
Section 3.6 on page 31  
"The authorities indicate that a number of steps have been taken since then to reduce release 
times, including the inauguration of a new wharf and the introduction of ASYCUDA World, and that 
a new time release study is plan ned for 2018."  
 
Questions 2  
Which departments were involved in the new time release study and how time is allocated 
in different departments?  
 
The Customs team who attended the WCO national workshop on TRS will be conducting the TRS 
between October and Nov ember 2018. The scope of the TRS will only cover a single port as a start, 
cover FCL only and agencies to be included are Customs, Biosecurity, Customs brokers and 
stevedore in charge of cargo handling. Regarding the allocated time to each agencies to be i nvolved 
it will still be decided by the TRS team.  
 
Section 3.8 on page 31  
"Vanuatu has submitted Category A, B and C commitments under the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement on January 2018."  
 
Question 3  
Has Vanuatu established a National Trade Facilitation Co mmittee? If it has, what's the 
structure and composition of the committee? What role does the customs authority play 
under the structure?  
 
Vanuatu was established a National Trade Facilitation Committee. The first meeting of National Trade 
Facilitation Committee was in July 2017. Vanuatu has no structure we have three agencies working 
grouping that were established and were reported to the Na tional Trade Facilitation Committee 
during a meeting.  
 
The customs authority plays a role as a chairman of the National Trade Facilitation Committee 
meeting.  
 
Section 4.8 on page 51  
"For agricultural producers, difficulties to obtain loans are an importa nt factor that bears on the 
development of agriculture. For this reason, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Animal Husbandry 
and Fishery joined hands with the Vanuatu Agricultural Development Bank to facilitate farmers in 
taking out credit."  
 
Question 4 
Please introduce the farmer -oriented credit measures adopted by the Ministry of 
Agriculture, Forestry, Animal Husbandry and Fishery, together with Agricultural WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
- 30 - 
 
  Development Bank. How are these measures implemented? And what are their effects in 
practice?  
 
The assistance provided with regards to credit is only to support applications for credit in determining 
the scope and assets that the farmers as they navigate the process of credit.  
 
Section 4.22 on page 54  
 "A short supply of raw materials, followed b y a lack of equipment, technology and labor, is the 
biggest factor restricting export."  
 
Question 5  
Has the Government formulated any corresponding plans to resolve the foregoing problem 
and in turn boost export?  
 
Being developed now.  
 
Section 4.27 on page  55 
"The Authority believes that quality and quantity are two major challenges facing the kava industry 
of their country. There are more than 80 types of kava in Vanuatu, but many of them are not suitable 
for the production of drinks. So the Ministry of Ag riculture, Forestry, Animal Husbandry and Fishery 
issued a National Kava Strategy (2016 -2025) to improve the quality of kava products. Under the 
aforesaid strategy, key measures included a kava quality management plan and a kava act (in 
Bislama language)." … 
 
Question 6  
Please briefly introduce the content of the kava quality management plan and the kava 
act (in Bislama language). Have they generated any effects to date? If they do, what are 
the effects?  
 
Section 4.29 on page 55  
"In recent years, the production of cattle is increasingly important. Since 2013, the quantities of 
cattle slaughtered have been dropping, with a slight bounce -back in 2016, though."  
 
Questions 7  
What were the causes of the decrease in the quantities of cattle slaughtered in Va nuatu 
in recent years? Has the Government adopted measures to increase the production of 
cattle?  
 
Most cattle production of cattle in Vanuatu in the past were from small holder farmers. The cause of 
decreasing cattle numbers are due to production areas for  small holder farmers having been reduced 
as population pressures increase i.e. land available for cattle production has declined. Vanuatu is 
promoting the breeding and increasing the cattle herd.  
 
_______________  
 
 
  WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  AUSTRALIA  
Report by the Secretariat (W T/TPR/S/378)  
2.4 Investment Regime  
2.4.2 Foreign Direct Investment  
Table 2.5 Business activities reserved only for Ni -Vanuatu citizens  
Page 27  
 
The report indicates that investment in road transport services is reserved for Ni -Vanuatu citizens.  
 
Question 1  
Are there any plans to open up road transport to foreign investors and service providers. 
If not, is Vanuatu able to explain the policy rationale for this approach?  
The Vanuatu investment regime is guided by the Vanuatu Foreign Investment Promotion Act. R oad 
transport service is currently listed as a reserve list for Vanuatu citizens.  
 
Report by the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/378)  
3 Trade Policies and Practices by Measure  
3.2 Measures Directly Affecting Imports  
3.3.7 Intellectual property rights  
3.3.7.1 Legislative and institutional framework  
Page 47, Table 3.10 Main IP laws, and treaty membership  
 
The table shows that Vanuatu is member of both the WIPO Convention and the Berne Convention. 
Australia would encourage Vanuatu to consider becoming party to th e WIPO internet treaties: the 
WIPO Copyright Treaty and the WIPO Performances and Phonogram Treaty. Australia would also 
encourage Vanuatu to consider becoming a party to the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to 
Published Works for Persons Who Are Blin d, Visually Impaired or Otherwise Print Disabled.  
 
Question 2  
Is Vanuatu considering taking the necessary steps to become party to the WIPO internet 
treaties and the Marrakesh Treaty?  
Yes, the IPR office in Vanuatu is now in the process of taking the necessary steps to make Vanuatu 
a party to the Marrakesh Treaty to facilitate access to published works for persons who are blind, 
visually impaired or otherwise print disabled.  
 
Report by  the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/378)  
4 Trade Policies by Sector  
4.4 Services  
4.4.4 Transport  
Page 73, para 4.110  
 
The report indicates that transport services are a major constraint to economic development.  
 
Question 3  
Does Vanuatu have a strategy to increase g rowth in the transport services sector, 
including through increasing foreign investment in the transport sector?  
Complementing Q1 above, the reserve listing in the Vanuatu Investment Promotion Act allows 
transport services sector to be reserved for Vanuatu  citizen.  
 WT/TPR/M/378/Add.1  
 
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  Report by the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/378)  
4 Trade Policies by Sector  
4.4 Services  
4.4.2 Financial services  
4.4.2.1 Banking  
Page 68, para 4.86  
 
The report indicates that Vanuatu authorities are considering ways to improve access to credit, 
establishing a National Financial Inclusion Task Force in 2013 and a separate Financial Inclusion Unit 
at the RBV in 2016.  
 
Question 4  
Is Vanuatu able to provide an update on its efforts to improve access to credit?   
The Reserve Bank of Vanuatu has a new V anuatu National Financial Inclusive Strategy 2018 – 2023. 
The vision for this strategy is to create an enabling environment for enriching the livelihoods of the 
people & MSMEs in Vanuatu through inclusive financial services & consumer protection and 
empowe rment.  
 
AUSTRALIA - ADDITION AL REPLIES   
Question 1  
Are there any plans to open up road transport to foreign investors and service providers. 
If not, is Vanuatu able to explain the policy rationale for this approach?  
Road transportation that is currently e nlisted under the Reserved List of Activities is defined in its 
simplest form of owning and operating a road transportation vehicle (bus or taxi) an activity that 
when initially compiling the Reserved List was and is still considered an activity that Ni Va nuatu have 
the capacity of being engaged in.  
The further development and expansion of road transport services to another level, that of which 
may be more systematic, advanced and standardized will need negotiations with the Government, 
municipal councils, the Land Transport Authority and other relevant stakeholders. This sector has 
not been technically analysed as yet in a manner that should call for a review of the current road 
transport services that exists in Vanuatu. However Vanuatu is open to proposals  of a road 
transportation system and services. The current draft National Investment Bill (a review of the 
current VIPA Act CAP 248) allows for the review and amendment of the Reserved List and this will 
happen if and when the Bill is passed and approved b y the Parliament.  
 
Question 3  
Does Vanuatu have a strategy to increase growth in the transport services sector, 
including through increasing foreign investment in the transport sector?  
Currently Vanuatu does not have a strategy in place. The Vanuatu Nation al Investment Policy is still 
a work in progress and would be able to factor in important issues under the transport sector and in 
turn provide recommendations for the Government that will be further amended through the review 
of the Reserved List should t he Bill be passed.  
 
__________