WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1  
16 October 2013  
(13-5675)  Page: 1/33  
Trade Policy Review Body 
10 and 12 June 2013  Original: English/ anglais/ inglés  
 
 
TRADE POLICY REVIEW 
SURINAME  
MINUTES OF THE MEETING 
Addendum 
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Eduardo Muñoz Gómez (Colombia) 
 
This document contains the advance written questions and additional questions by WTO 
Members, and replies provided by Suriname.1 
 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales 
10 et 12 juin 2013 
EXAMEN DES POLITIQUES COMMERCIALES 
SURINAME  
COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION 
Addendum 
Président: S.E. M. Eduardo Muñoz Gómez (Colombie) 
 
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 le Suriname.1 
 
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales 10 y 12 de junio de 2013 
EXAMEN DE LAS POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES 
S
URINAME  
ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN 
Addendum 
Presidente: Excmo. Sr. Eduardo Muñoz Gómez (Colombia) 
 
El presente documento figuran las preguntas presentadas anticipadamente por escrito y las 
preguntas adicionales de los Miembros de la OMC, así como las respuestas facilitadas por 
Suriname.1 
                                               
1 In English only./En anglais seulement./En inglés solamente. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  BRAZIL 
Questions regarding the Secretariat Report ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT - Ec onomic Diversification 
(1) In paragraph 1.3, the Government's Report ment ions efforts in order to further diversify the 
economy with more foreign investments in key areas such as the gold, bauxite, palm oil, soya 
bean oil, sugar cane and fishery sectors. The Report also describes, in subsequent sections, the performance achieved in the last few years. 
Could Suriname please elaborate on how it intends to give continuity to those policies in the next 
few years? It would be of particular interest to have information on the diversification of products and also of export destinations.  
Efforts to further diversify the economy with more foreign investments in key areas. 
The recent international economic develo pments were accompanied by a sustained 
increase in gold and internat ional oil prices, Suriname's major commodity exports. The 
Surinamese economy is likely to continue expanding at a respectable pace in 2013 and 
o v e r  t h e  m e d i u m  t e r m  a s  a  r e s u l t  f r o m  t h e abovementioned international prices and 
large private and public investment in the mi ning, oil, energy and transportation sectors 
etc. 
Once completed, these projects are expected  to raise the country's growth potential, 
boost government revenue, and stre ngthen the balance of payments. 
Suriname's Economic Outlook: In the early years of the plan period 2012 – 2016, it is assumed that revenues will be 
boosted by large planned gold projects (pro bably an expansion) which would come in 
line, such as the gold mine of Rosebel Go ld Mines N.V. (IAMGOLD) at Rosebel in the 
Brokopondo region. It is expected that th e Suriname Gold Company L.L.C. (Newmont) 
will probably set up a new gold mine in  the Merian region East of Suriname. 
The Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. pr ofitability and contribution to the budget 
will be boosted 2015, once the refinery at To ut Lui Faut, currently under construction, is 
completed. 
The new refinery will expand the product port folio with new petroleum products such as 
gas for cars and the demand for import gas will be reduced. 
Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname is also ex ecuting an important ethanol project in the 
western part of the country with Brazilian expertise. 
A successful outcome of this project in the lo ng term will diversify the energy sector of 
the country and the export portfolio. 
Suriname is currently negotiating two (2) major gold operations deals with foreign 
investors. For the first time in history, th e participation of the Government will exceed 
20% and this is a conscious strategic choice. 
The bauxite sector still suffers from the 2008 recession and expanded production of 
Chinese aluminum companies have made the recovery more difficult. A plan for an 
integrated bauxite operation in the Western pa rt of Suriname is still on the table.  
In the agricultural branch, programs ar e being executed for cassava, fruits and 
vegetables (not only rice and banana s) pig farming and small ruminants. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  Over the medium term, the government agreed to press ahead with meaningful 
structural reforms that would strengthen th e country's human capital and institutions, 
thereby helping to diversify ec onomic activity in Suriname. 
T o  t h a t  e f f e c t  t h e  f o l l o w i n g  a c t i o n s / p o l i c y  m e a s u r e s  h a v e  b e e n  t a k e n  a s  p a r t  o f  t h e  
Industry Policy: 
 Establish 2 ( two) sustainable programmes of clusters in Agribusiness and 
Tourism; 
 To formulate a long tern integrated Indu stry Master Plan for relevant sectors; 
 Implementing an assessment on the current  investment climate in terms of the 
legal, physical and institutional fram ework; developing new resourced based 
projects on the basis of acqu ired knowledge and technology. 
Authorities are making commendable strides to improve the business environment by 
removing red tape, reducing the time for land  registration and establishing companies, 
improving access to capital for Small and Medium Sized Companies, improving the 
competitiveness position of Suriname, improv ing the World Bank ranking of Suriname on 
the Ease of Doing Business List with the assistance of the IDA International of 
Singapore, dealing with the issue of innovation  in businesses, trade facilitation with the 
assistance of UNCTAD, export support with  the assistance of the Caribbean Export 
Development Agency (CEDA), etc.  
The Government of Suriname is actively creating more Market Access for our goods and 
services. 
The Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union was signed in 2008. 
Suriname participates in Caricom bilateral wi th Canada, and just last week, a framework 
for a Trade and Investment Agreement was signed with the United States.  
Suriname plans to become an associated member of Mercosur (Brazil, Argentina, 
Uruguay, Paraguay, and Venezuela) by 2014. 
Within the South American Integration process,  Suriname also participates in Celac and 
Fealac talks. 
The Latin American countries are currently expanding market access opportunities with 
Africa. 
Suriname signed an agreement with the OIC last week which opens the door for 
expanded trade opportunities with the Far East. 
ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT - Infrastructure 
(2) In Section 3.1.6, the Government's Report mentions initiatives in maritime transport. It is 
highlighted that with the modernization of the Po rt of Paramaribo, the processing capacity of 
containers has increased 25%. 
Could Suriname please elaborate on the measures to strengthen maritime transport, taking into 
account the ongoing economic diversification policy? What are the planned investments and priorities for the modernization and expansion of port activities in the country?  
A major renovation takes place in the port of  Paramaribo financed by the EU and local 
banks. 
The port of Paramaribo was run in such an effe ctive way in the last years that it received 
an award for the best port in the Caribbean. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  The port of Nieuw Nickerie in the western pa rt is also being renovated. That port is 
important for rice exports. 
The Government plans to deepen the Suriname River which leads to the port of 
Paramaribo, which will open th e door for larger vessels.  WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  CHINA 
Questions regarding the Secretariat Report TRADE POLICY REGIME: FRAMEWORK AND OBJECTIVES 
(3) Page 21 （Para2.31 ）" t h e  O P  a l s o  r e c o g n i z e s  t h a t  m o s t  e c o n o m i c  g r o w t h  i n  t h e  n e x t  f i v e  
years will be generated by the mining sector.…" 
Does Suriname allow constant foreign investments in the mining sector? Are there any 
restrictions? 
Suriname welcomes investments in the mining sector without restrict ions, provided that 
the investments are in line with  Government policy objectives. 
Page 21 （Para2.32 ）"…The authorities intend to establish a Suriname Trade, Investment and 
Export Promotion Agency." 
Paragraph 2.3.1 mentioned that the Ministry of  T r a d e  ( M I T )  o f  S u r i n a m e  i s  r e s p o n s i b l e  f o r  
coordinating relevant authorities in trade policy formulation. What's the difference between the 
new Suriname Trade, Investment and Export Promotion Agency and the MIT in terms of function and responsibility ? 
The IDCS, the body for attracting investment s, and the Ministry of Trade and Industry 
(MTI), complement each other with regard to investment policy. Investment promotion 
with all of its specialized tasks of accommoda ting investors is delegated to this special 
agency (IDCS). MTI is responsible for creating among other things market access for 
goods and services, preparation of Investme nt Protection Agreements, trade missions, 
Trade and Investment Agreements with othe r countries, trade facilitation, standards, 
certification, innovation and all other matters which are important to investors.   
(4) Page 21 （Para2.35 ）"The targets for the period 2012-16 include a competition policy, an 
anti-dumping policy, and a consumer protection law." 
What indicators does the Suriname government refer to in the process of formulating 
anti-dumping policies? What are the criteria for determining an act of anti-dumping? 
There is no anti-dumping law yet in Surina me and we have not been involved in an 
anti-dumping case. The discussions about what  criteria would be suitable for Suriname 
are ongoing, but at this time we consider sub cost price pricing with the objective of 
putting local producers out of  business as a criteria.  
(5) Page 22 （Para 2.40 ）As part of the European Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the 
CARIFORUM states, Suriname made commitments to liberalize accountancy, bookkeeping, 
tourism, courier, and veterinary services, amongst others.  
Please inform the status of the opening up of th e postal and courier service market to the outside 
world, the commercial presence of foreign investment, the specific qualifications and the 
examination and approval procedures of foreign investment in current Suriname. 
Regarding the liberalization of services in the EPA, we can say that these are still 
pending. The process of liberalization is very  slow and dependant on ratification of the 
EPA in Suriname. In our interpretation, all of the EU members should have ratified the EP but this has not happened yet. Regardin g the liberalization of postal and courier 
services, everything remained the same. The sector is not open to the outside world, 
only courier services. The commercial pres ence of foreign investments has also 
remained the same. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  (6) Page 25 （Para 2.57 ）a deduction from taxable income of 20% of investments of at least 
US$20,000 in regions designated by the Government and of 10% in the case of investments of at 
least US$1,000 that are in the interest of environmental protection;  
How to define whether an investment is in the interest of environmental protection when Suriname 
implements the above investment preferential policies? 
The preferential deductable policies should no t be mistaken for a lack of environmental 
protection. For example, all business license s undergo an environmental litmus test and 
the Government will ban the use of mercury in gold mining. 
(7) Page 24 （Para 2.55 ）As Investments are covered by the Investment Law of 2001, despite 
attempts to revise the law since 2004.  
Does Suriname still have any plan to revise the existing Investment Law of 2001? If so, please 
introduce contents to be revised and timetable.  
Suriname is in the process of drafting a new investment law. 
(8) Page 25 （Para 2.59 ）…The law accords special consideration on investments exceeding 
US$50 million and investments in the exploration an d exploitation of bauxite, hydrocarbons, gold, 
and radioactive minerals. These investments may benefit from incentives other than those 
provided for in the Investment Law, provided they are granted by law.  
Please provide detailed information on regulations of those above incentives. 
It is a custom for these types of major inve stments in mining that companies enter into 
negotiations with the Government. The result  of the negotiations will be an agreement 
which will have to be approved by The Nati onal Assembly. That would include all other 
incentives negotiated with the Government.  
(9) Page 26 （Para 2.61 ）Although a law to create InvestSur was adopted in June 2002. No data 
are available on the amount and nature of the incentives that have been awarded under the 
Investment Law.  
Does Suriname have any plan to construct database on regulations of incentives for inquiry? If so, 
please briefly introduce the plan. 
The newly established body Investment and Development Corporation Suriname (IDCS) 
will assemble all relevant investment  data as part of its activities. 
(10)  Page 26 （Para 2.62 Para 2.63 ）The formation of limited liability companies in Suriname 
requires a declaration of no objection by the Pr esident of the Republic, and the pursuit of any 
business or profession designated by the Ministry  of Trade and Industry requires a prior permit 
from the Ministry.  
The total amount of time to establish a new LL C is less than one month. In a new law, no 
declaration from the President will be needed  which will make the processing time even 
shorter. 
(11)  The international transfer of payments related to foreign investment in Suriname remains 
subject to exchange control regulations. Thus, th e export of capital (including reimbursement of 
loans and investments) and of proceeds of capital (including profits and dividends) requires prior 
permission from the Foreign Exchange Commission.  
Please elaborate above investment and exchange control regulations. Does Suriname have any 
plan to relax or simplify those regulations?  
For amounts above US$10,000, a license is required to transfer funds out of the country. 
This has not hindered operations of compan ies. Big multinationals like Suralco do not WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  have this requirement because the agreement which they have with the Government 
regulates the transfer of funds. 
(12)  Page 33 （Para 3.40. ）New developments have occurred in Suriname's standards/technical 
regulations setting framework. The act establishing the Suriname Standards Bureau (SSB) was 
adopted in 2006, and the SSB was brought into operation in 2007 as the national agency responsible for administering and developing standa rds and technical regulations. In addition, SSB 
is the national authority for certification of good s and accepted processes, for metrology, and for 
accreditation of laboratories and testing facilities. It is also responsible for promoting the use of international and regional standards, including technical regulations. 
Has Suriname established concrete standards and technical regulations in the field of products and 
service of traditional medicine? If so, what are these concrete standards and technical regulations? 
No standards have been established in the medical field yet. 
(13)  Page42（Para3.110 ）In compliance with the Law, the patent right is an exclusive right 
granted to the inventor of a novel product or method, or an improvement of a product in an 
industry. There is no administrative setting for patents registration in Suriname. 
Since  there is no administrative setting for patents registration in Suriname, what are the 
requirements and procedures for an invention to be patented in Suriname? 
The process is not complicated. An investig ation will be done by the Bureau of 
Intellectual Property if the in vention is not already patented. Any legal body needs to 
submit an extract from the Chamber of Comm erce and Industry, and a LLC of Foundation 
needs to submit the articles of incorporatio n. In the interest of time, a person can 
investigate beforehand in the public regi sters whether the invention is not already 
registered. 
TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR  
(14) Page51 （Para 4.41. ）"Under the Mining Decree of 1986, ownership of land and minerals are 
separate, with the state owning all minerals. …. Wh ile mining rights for bauxite may be granted to 
state-owned and private enterprises,…, Exploration and exploitation rights for bauxite, radioactive 
minerals, and hydrocarbons are granted by resoluti on drafted by the Ministry of Natural Resources 
and approved by the Council of Ministers, the st ate Council and the National Assembly; it enters 
into force after having been signed by the President and published in the Staatsblad.…"  
(a)  Do the private enterprises granted with the mining rights for bauxite include foreign-
invested enterprises? Have such rights been granted by way of public tendering? Can foreign 
state-owned enterprises participate in the tendering?  
(b)  Are the exploration and exploitation of hydr ocarbons by Staatsolie no longer subject to the 
provisions and procedures stated in this paragraph? 
(c)  This paragraph mentioned the cooperation with other companies. What specific 
requirements does the government set for the forms of cooperation and other aspects? 
The history of Suriname shows that foreign mu ltinationals have mostly been involved in 
large scale mining operations. So the proces s has been known by multinationals for a 
long time. 
The Government negotiates with potential candidates in a proces of negotiated 
procurement. 
Staatsolie has invited foreign companies for off shore exploration operations. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  Questions regarding the Government Report 
SECTOR PERFORMANCE 
(15) Page 5 （Para 3.9. ）The services sector accounts for nearly 60% of the total economic 
activities in Suriname and is a major source of economic activity and employment. The 
Government is in the process of developing th e services sector through the following policy: 
a.  Stimulating entrepreneurship and promoting international cooperation in order to guarantee 
markets for the Surinamese businesses. 
b.  Clustering, innovation and standardization of services. What is the status of the service of traditional medicine in the service sector of Suriname? What 
percentage does it take? 
The State Owned Hospitals have traditionally had a major share is the medical services 
field. In the last years, priv ate investments have grown in th e field and visible are: blood 
tests, haemodialysis, body scanning, ra diology analysis, pharmacy, dentistry, 
reproductive health, 24 hour me dical services, MRI scanning.  
The précise share of private sector op erations in the market is unknown.  
(16) Page 6 （Para3.14. ）"Concerning the National Debt, the Government will ensure that the 
National Debt is always at a legally acceptable level." 
The Suriname government claimed that the National Debt would be at a legally acceptable level.  Has the government set out the legally acceptable level in a form such as an act of fiscal 
responsibility? If so, please inform the name of the relevant act and its content.  
The Law "Wet op de Staatsschuld" deals with  issues related to the national debt, 
including the components of the national debt, the ceiling, establishment of debt 
obligations, responsibilities of the Minister of Finance, registration of documents, 
sources of foreign currency, publication of th e national debt, annulme nt of national debt, 
liquidation of national debt, statue of lim itation of debt, inadequate documentation, 
transferability of debt, the managing body and its tasks.  
The limit of the national debt is establishe d by law and the Government operates within 
that range. The National Debt Office mana ges issues related to the national debt. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION 
Questions regarding the Secretariat Report 
(17) Summary, page 6 para 5 and page 27 reports th at the EU as export destination has shrunk to 
25% of total exports in the review period whilst exports to the Middle East increased.  
How does the government intend to reverse the recent decline in exports to the EU between 2007 
and 2011?  
Since gold became one of Suriname's ex porting commodities, the export value has 
increased considerably and the export destin ations for this commodity are: the United 
Arabic Emirates, Canada, Belgium, India and Switzerland. While great shares of this 
export commodity are destined to the United  Arabic Emirates, it represents a great 
share, approximately 42% of all gold export s. The EU will be and still remains a major 
export destination for Suriname. Because Belgium for has a 77% share of total 
Suriname's total exports to the EU, good for about US $ 250 million. Other export 
commodities to the EU are bananas, alumina, fish, shrimp, rice and other food stuff. 
(18) Summary, page 6 para 7 and page 27, paras 3.4 and 3.5 states that the authorities intend to 
prepare a new law on customs. It is intended to simplify trade related administrative procedures. 
In addition, the lack of formal arrangements and mandatory rules on trade facilitation procedure 
are reported as additional areas for improvements. 
Could the authorities provide more details about their intentions regarding the future law on 
customs, i. e. scope of the law, etc., and the time frame foreseen for the coming into force of such 
law?  
Within the larger context of trade facilit ation and trade agreements, a number of 
measures will be taken which will effect the Customs depart ment. The installation of 
software (ASYCUDA World) and new tariff schemes based on the HS 2012 to name a few. A single window operation is also planned. 
(19) Does the government consider becoming member of the WCO? Suriname intends to become a member of th e WCO and the process will start this year. 
(20) Summary, page 6 para 8 sets out that the existing intellectual property legislation needs to 
be improved. A new intellectual property act was prepared in 2001 but failed to pass the National 
Assembly. Competition policy lacks a comprehensive legislation.  
When does Suriname expect its intellectual property act to be passed? 
Suriname intends to take advantage of pref erences offered by the US (CBI and CEBERA) 
and because of this, Intellectual Pr operty is high on the agenda.  
(21) Does the government plan to introduce legislation on contingency measures and competition 
policy, and to reform the bodies responsible for applying such laws, as the report recommends? If 
so, over what is the timeframe?  
We have prepared a draft competition Law whic h is yet to be approves by The National 
Assembly. 
(22) Summary, page 7 para 16 emphasizes that the economic growth enjoyed by Suriname is 
based on a narrow range of products. The authorities have started to tackle the challenge of 
diversification there is a lack of implementation of the necessary legislation. There is further 
growth potential in tourism, agriculture, and as a regional gateway for goods and services. 
What plans does the government have to develop tourism, agriculture and regional gateway 
services?  WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  Last year, a Tourism and Agriculture cluste ring program were executed because these 
sectors are considered vital to future economic development. 
The tourism infrastructure has experienced dr amatic investments over the past 5 years 
with more that 40 new hotels and more th an 70 new tour oper ators. The airport 
renovation has almost been completed so are ma ny roads to the interior part. The city of 
Paramaribo is getting a facelift. 
In agriculture, the local prod ucers need to make a shift to  more value added products 
and the ministry had registered quite a fe w new producers of processed value added 
food products.  
(23) By when does the government plan to pass legislation to develop these new areas and how 
will the implementation of such legislation an d the reform of the responsible bodies be 
guaranteed?   
Whenever necessary, the National Asse mbly will deal with the draft laws. 
DEVELOPMENTS IN TRADE 
(24) Page 15 Chart 1.2.b and page 72 Table A1.4  highlights that merchandise trade from China 
remained at relatively stable level whereas imports from Trinidad and Tobago increased by 8.3% during the review period 
How does Suriname explain the import figures from China considering the noticeable increase of 
Chinese products which are sold in Suriname?  
China had become a major partner of Suriname is the last years, not just in trade but in 
development projects. 
The imports of Suriname from China has increase from 70 to  111 million US$ during this 
period, and the composition of the import commodities has not changed. The main of 
major commodities are focused on garlic, fire works, automobiles, new pneumatic tires, 
of rubber, flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, air conditionings, aluminum 
bars, rods and profiles, tiles, drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating 
instruments, toilet or facial tissue stock, hand  tools, napkins, textile and textile articles, 
shoes, other hot flat-rolled products, tubes, pipes and hollow profiles, of cast iron and 
other manufacturing products. 
(25) Could Suriname provide details on the increase of imports from Trinidad and Tobago? What is 
the product composition of these imports? 
Since Suriname became a member of the CA RICOM, Trinidad and Tobago has become a 
major import partner within this regional ma rket. The major import commodity from this 
importing partner are mineral fuels, mineral oils and products of their distillation, for 
about 82% of the total year imports. Other import commodities are cigarettes, building 
grey cement, fertilisers, napkins, flour, non- alcoholic beverages, wa ter tanks, other food 
stuff and other manufacturing products. Import s from Trinidad and Tobago have a share 
of nearly 90% of the total imports from the CARICOM. 
DEVELOPMENTS IN INVESTMENT INCLUDING ON FDI (SECTION 2.6.1 TO 2.65 PAGES 24 AND 26) 
(26) Page 16, para 1.28 records the very low ranking in 'ease of doing business" of Suriname, 
while page 16, para 1.33 refers to a lack of a proper legal framework for investment except for 
allowing incentives to investments (para 2.55 and 2.57 pages 24-26) and para 2.65 states that 
Suriname is part to MIDA but not ICSID (Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes between States and Nationals of other States). 
Does the government intend to start assessing the impact of incentives on FDI?  
Suriname should have had a higher ranking by now. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  Suriname has made progress in three catego ries on the Ease of Doing Business List 
which should have justified an impr ovement of the World Bank ranking. 
These are: 1. The abolishment in June of 2011 of mo re than 100 licensing requirements for 
companies and professions 
2. The reduction of the time for land registra tion to 50 days while by the end of 2013, 
the registration time will be reduced to 30 days. 
3. The time to establish a Limited Liability Company (LLC) has been reduced to less 
than 30 days. 
Due to a communication error, not all th e improvements were communicated to the 
World Bank and as a result, the ranking of  Suriname did not improve on the list. 
So work is being done to improve the rankin g and subsequent positive effects on FDI. 
(27) Does the government consider becoming member of ICSID? The Government is yet to take a decisi on about becoming a member of ICSID. 
TRADE POLICY REGIME: FRAMEWORK AND OBJECTIVES 
(28) Page 17 para 2.5 highlights that Suriname, as a CARICOM member, should adopt additional 
legislation in the areas of competition policy, anti-dumping, and consumer protection. The delayed 
implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) poses a challenge in that 
respect. 
How does Suriname plan to help overcome  the delays in implementing the CSME? 
The delays with regard to the implementati on happen in virtually all Caricom states. 
Collective measures are taken to de al with administrative delays.  
TRADE POLICY OBJECTIVES - GENE RAL TRADE POLICY OBJECTIVES  
(29) Page 21 para 2.32 reports that the Government is carrying out a Trade Facilitation Project 
which foresees the establishment of a Suriname Trade, Investment and Export Promotion Agency. 
By when is the Trade, Investment and Export Agency likely to be operational and how will it 
coordinate with Caribbean Export, its regional counterpart?  
The Investment Development Corporation Su riname (IDCS) is operational but the 
facility is yet to get a legal basis. This should happen with the next year. 
The cooperation with CEDA is good and IDCS  will improve the working relationship with 
this agency. 
(30) Page 21 para 2.36 emphasizes that there has been little progress since the last Review in the 
development of the legislative and institutional base necessary for closer coordination between the different ministries. Burdensome procedures and a complicated bureaucracy remain an obstacle. 
How does Suriname intend to lighten the 'burdensome procedures' and 'cumbersome bureaucracy' 
which businesses face?  
A Competitiveness Institute has been establishe d to deal with exactly this problem. The 
IDA International from Singapore assists this  program and clear deadlines are being set 
for results. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  REGIONAL AGREEMENTS - CARICOM  
(31) Page 23 para 2.48 reports that the CARICOM Competition Commission established in 2008 is 
located in Suriname and is competent to solve issues related to anticompetitive practices. It is said that Caricom Competition Commission has no record of enforcement yet (as of 2012) and that it 
could address anticompetitive behaviours in Suriname in the absence of a national law and a 
national authority. 
Are there any new developments in terms of activity of the CCC for example on certain sectoral 
studies across the region or that would indirectly be of interest for the future Suriname 
Competition Council? 
The CCC is the regional competition body to deal with cross border competition issues 
and has their own method of management.  
Currently the CCC is assistin g Members states in drafting their national Competition 
Laws. 
Any future anti competitive behaviour which ca lls for specific studies will be dealt with 
in the appropriate manner.  
REGISTRATION AND CUSTOMS PROCEDURES 
(32) Page 27 para 3.3.1 states that, "Under th e Ministry in charge of finance, the CED is 
responsible for customs procedures, including levying duties and other charges. The core customs 
procedures for inspection and administration of g oods, in international trade, are vested in the 
Shipping Act of 1908. However, numerous customs-related issues, including procedures, and duty and tax collection on international trade, are found in several separate pieces of legislation […]" 
Several entrepreneurs have voiced concern that a number of entry ports in Nickerie (West of 
Suriname) seem to be used as an illegal 'free zone', where no import duties are being paid until goods are actually sold. Are the authorities aware of  this practice and what measures are foreseen 
to tackle the issue? 
We assume that when an entrepreneur has an y evidence of illegal activity or complaints  
of illegal activity, he/she will submit this to the Attorney  General's office which will 
launch an investigation.  
CUSTOMS VALUATION 
(33) Page 28 para 3.15 reports that the customs authorities have indicated that apparent under-
valuation of imports had been a regular occurrence. In order to mitigate under-invoicing with 
respect to imported cars, cigarettes, and alcoholic beverages, specific duties are currently applied. 
Can the authorities elaborate upon the application and enforcement of these 'specific duties'?  
The Government is in the middle of implemen ting measure to prevent under valuation. A 
company (SGS) has been hired to help solve this problem. 
The duties are regulated in our WTO schedule of commitments. EXPORT PROMOTION, FINANCE, INSURA NCE, AND GUARANTEES - CARICOM  
(34) Page 36 para 3.69 states that, according to the authorities, in the absence of an export 
development strategy, a programme promoting export products as well as a specific promotion programmes targeting Brazil and the EU are being adopted. 
By when does the government intend to adopt the export promotion programme targeting the EU?  WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  Just last week, a program was started for SM Es with the assistance of the Caribbean 
Export Development Agency dealing with exports. 
BUSINESS REGISTRATION AND LICENSING 
(35) Page 37 paras 3.76 and 3.77 acknowledges that the business licensing process remains 
lengthy and cumbersome. Officially, it takes 30 working days to obtain a license according to the 
World Bank it takes an average 500 days to get a company set up.  
In order to contribute to the government's objective of diversification and attracting investment, 
are the authorities considering measures to improve the business climate, such as for example a 
law to protect foreign investment or other legal measures to facilitate trade? 
The information reported by the World Bank is incorrect. It has become clear that the 
reporters to the World Bank were misi nformed and have not communicated with 
authorities about changes which have taken pl ace. Suriname will address this problem. 
The precise amount of days is around 35. 
(36) What measures, including legislation, does the government intend to adopt to make it easier 
to get a business licence, and by when? 
In June of 2011, over 100 business lic ense requirements were abolished. 
The current philosophy of the Government is  that within the entrepreneurial freedom, 
business licenses are only necessary for a limit ed number of professions and businesses.  
COMPETITION POLICY 
(37) Page 38 para 3.80 states "[…] a competition bill (Mededingingswet) is being drafted under the 
responsibility of the Ministry of Trade and Industry ; the process is at its final stage "The draft bill 
basically covers mergers, anticompetitive agreem ents, and abuse of market dominance. […]". In 
addition para 3.79 indicates that Caricom has developed model template laws. 
Para 3.85 states that "in principle, under the Law on Price Setting and Monitoring, SB 1996 No. 
021, the Ministry of Trade and Industry is author ized to determine the maximum price or mark-up 
for any good or service sold in Suriname." 
Could the authorities elaborate on the scope of the draft law? For example, would it address 
subsidies in general and bid rigging in the framework of public procurement? 
The draft law on competition is meant to regulate anti-competitive behaviors of 
businesses and is modeled after US an d European antitrust legislation. 
A model Caricom competition law served as a base. 
Could the authorities indicate their intentions regarding the modalities of cooperation that may be 
established between the Suriname Competition Council and the CCC as well as between the SCC and the national sectoral regulators in areas like telecom or energy for example?  
The cooperation between the SCC and the CCC consist of cooperation in the area of 
investigation and awareness activities.  
When it comes to sectoral regulati on, the SCC will initiate a mou.  
(38) Could the authorities clarify what interaction may exist between the future Suriname 
competition law regime carried out by the Suriname Competition Council (Surinames Mededingingsraad, SMR) and the system of general price and profit margin control carried out by 
the Ministry of Trade and industry?  WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  The draft law on competition is meant to re gulate the behaviors of the entrepreneurs. 
Price controls and profit margins controls do  no longer exist, except for gas prices. 
(39) Given that the SCC would be under the responsi bility of the ministry of trade, what degree of 
autonomy would it be granted for example with the view to launching sectoral investigations or for 
its enforcement activities (for example, would dawn  raids be subject to the Minister's approval or 
to a judicial authority?)  
Investigations will not be subject to Minist erial approval since the SCC will be an 
independent body and can carry out its tasks in a sovereign manner.  
GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT 
(40) Page 39 para 3.89 states that the regime lacks transparency and para 3.93 refers to more 
than 45 alternative procurement procedures. Para  3.99 reports that State owned entities have 
their own procurement regime. Para 3.97 refers to  the Inter-American Development Bank's Public 
Sector Management Strengthening Program. 
What are the intentions of the government regarding the above mentioned elements that seem to 
call for the establishment of a nation-wide regime of procurement that could enhance the 
efficiency of public spending?  
Within CARICOM we are working on implementing a procurement regime for the region 
and the national policy will follow suit. 
(41) Page 39 para 3.97 states that efforts are under way to implement the Inter-American 
Development Bank's Public Sector Management Strengthening Program (PSMSP), to improve the procurement system. 
By when does Suriname expect the PSMSP pr ogramme to have been fully implemented?  
This program has been put on hold, the implem entation of CSME provisions can be seen 
as our public sector regime the legislation will be put in line with the CSME legislation 
e.g. the issuance of automatic licensin g. But the Government has taken its own 
measures to make the procurement system more effective such as raising certain barriers and making it easier for negotiated procurement.  
(42) The EU welcomes the efforts made by the Suriname authorities with the support of the Inter-
American Development Bank to develop a procur ement regulatory framework on the basis of 
internationally accepted practices, establish the National Public Procurement Regulatory Office, and set-up a procurement information system and web portal. These measures can contribute to 
improve transparency and accountability of th e procurement system. Could Suriname provide 
more information on the timelines for the finalization of this reform process? 
The timelines depend on the impl ementation of the Government. 
(43) Page 40 para 3.101 to 3.103.  
Suriname has an important public sector with more than 120 enterprises. It is indicated that 
privatization is ongoing with the « Stichting Behoud Bananensector Suriname »(SBBS) launched in 
2012. Foreign entities are allowed to participate according to the report. 
Are there other State entities that are to be privat ized? if so, what is the timeframe? Would foreign 
companies be allowed to participate?  
The privitization is done on a individu al basis and the government will take a 
transparant decision when the time is due. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS AND SUMMARY, PAGE 6 PARA 8 ON IPR LEGISLATIVE 
FRAMEWORK 
(44) Page 40 para 3.104 and page 42 para 3.112 emphasizes that Suriname is a member of the 
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and has signed various international intellectual 
property rights treaties. Despite its membership of multiple IPR-related agreements, there remains 
little adherence to the rules and disciplines of these agreements, as they are yet to be fully integrated into the country's legislation. Ther e are furthermore no provisions in the law of 
Suriname for border protection against trademark counterfeits and copyright piracy. 
What are the intentions of the authorities in this area?  Trademark counterfeits are reportedly not a large problem in Suriname. Policy is made 
by priority given the institutional capacity  in Suriname but this issue will get the 
necessary attention.  
(45) An increase in 'fake products', predominantl y originating from China, has been noted on the 
Surinamese market; these products are supported by the Surinamese government through letters 
of the Ministry of Trade and Industry stating th at the products are genuine. What measures will 
Suriname take to improve this situation? 
There was one instance when an inappropriat e letter was issued by an official who was 
mislead by an importer. The Government is  aware of this case and the letter was 
withdrawn. Parties get all opportunities to fight IPR battles in courts.   
POLICIES - BANANAS 
(46) Page 47 para 4.23 reports that the EU is the main export market to which Suriname has 
duty-free access under the CARIFORUM-EU EPA.  With the preference margins for bananas 
exported to the EU gradually declining in annual steps until 2017, Suriname is under pressure to increase productivity and improve quality in order to compete with other banana producing 
countries. 
How is Suriname responding to what the report refe rs to as 'pressure to increase productivity and 
improve quality' in the banana industry so it remains globally competitive?  
The Government hired a very knowledgeable  management team to run the banana 
company and as such one major problem was solved. 
The management was also successful in dealin g with other issues such as cost price 
reduction.  
Questions regarding the Government Report 
(47) Page 6, para 3.17. refers to a number of changes in the legislation in the following area. With regard to legislation in this area, the focus is on new and adapted legislations, namely: 
 a Law on Supervision on the Banking and Credit system; 
 a Law on Supervision on Insurance Companies; 
 a Law on Supervision on money remitters; 
 a new Foreign Exchange Law. 
Could the government elaborate on the intended changes to be brought to the legal framework in 
these areas and on the timeframe? 
The Banking and Credit system and Money Remitters laws have been implemented. 
The Central Bank is finishing work on the Insurance and Foreign Exchange laws. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  UNITED STATES 
Questions regarding the Secretariat Report TRADE POLICIES BY MEASURE - Measures Directly Affecting Imports REGISTRATION AND CUSTOMS PROCEDURES 
(48) Page 27, paragraph 3.2: The Secretariat report states "in the context of this Review, the 
authorities indicated that a new PSI programme will be launched as of April 2013." Please provide 
an update regarding the new preshipment inspection (PSI) program. What products will require a 
preshipment inspection? What is the reason for which Suriname established PSI requirements? 
When will Suriname notify this requirement?  
Suriname established these PSI requirement fo r revenue purposes. Tentatively it will be 
in force as of 17 June 2013. Societe general de surveillance is the agency responsible for 
carrying out this regime. This will  only be applied for 18 months. 
CUSTOMS VALUATION  
(49) Page 28, paragraph 3.15: The Secretariat reports that "in order to mitigate cases of under-
valuation, the CED uses reference prices based on the prices of past shipments of identical or 
similar good." How does the Customs and Excise Department (CED) use such reference prices? Are 
reference prices used to determine alternative customs values?  
The investigation is started with the acceptan ce or refusal of the price. Only in cases 
where the value cannot be determined, will the reference price of like products be used 
as a guide. But this is rarely done.   
IMPORT PROHIBITIONS, RESTRICTIONS, AND LICENSING 
(50) Page 33, paragraph 3.36: It appears that Suriname's last notification to the WTO in 
accordance with Article 7.3 of the Import Licensing Procedures Agreement is contained in G/LIC/N/3/SUR/1, dated October 9, 2009. In light of the annual notification requirement under 
Article 7.3, does Suriname intend to submit an updated notification?  
 S u r i n a m e  a l s o  n o t i f i e d  t h e  " L a w  o n  t h e  M o v e m e n t  o f  G o o d s "  i n  G / L I C / N / 1 / S U R / 1 ,  d a t e d  
15 December 2003. Has Suriname provided a copy of this legislation to the WTO? If not, 
when does Suriname intend to notify this legisl ation, along with a copy of the Negative List 
Decision? 
Yes. 
 Table A3.1, footnote (a) of the Secretariat repo rt states: "In the context of this Review, the 
authorities indicated that they were working on a new list with the detailed tariff headings 
that correspond to the goods subject to prohibit ions, licensing, and certification." When does 
Suriname anticipate that this review will be concluded? The review is ongoing and we are 
doing our best to conclude this within one ye ar. Especially with the implementation of the 
HS 2012. 
The review is ongoing and we intend to conc lude this within one (1) year. Especially 
with the implementation of the HS 2012. 
CONTINGENCY MEASURES 
(51) Page 33, Paragraph 3.39: The Secretariat's report states that "Suriname has never used the 
CARICOM provisions on anti-dumping and countervailing measures. " Has Suriname in the past 
enforced or is Suriname currently enforcing any anti-dumping or countervailing duty measures WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  imposed by CARICOM? If so, please list the products and countries of export involved, and 
whether the specific measure is still in force .  
No. MEASURES AFFECTING PRODUCTION AND TRADE 
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS 
(52) Page 40, Paragraph 3.104:  The Secretariat states that although Suriname has signed various 
international intellectual property rights treaties, there remains little adherence to the rules and 
specifics of the agreements because they have not been fully integrated into national legislation. 
With respect to copyright law, please explain how the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works (Paris 1971) has been  implemented into national legislation, and if 
applicable, jurisprudence through court cases.   
Suriname is still working on a new IPR law which shall reflect all the international 
commitments in this area.  
(53) Page 41, Paragraph 3.106: According to the Secretariat, "In 2003, the authorities indicated 
that Suriname had not yet ratified the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual 
Property Rights (TRIPS)." Suriname joined the WTO in 1995. In 2003, Suriname indicated that in order to remedy the situation, new legislation pertaining to IPRs was being drafted with the 
assistance of the International Bureau of WIPO.  
What is the status of this IPR legislation, and spec ifically, legislation regarding copyright? Has a bill 
been drafted? If so, please provide a summary of  its key provisions. Have there been any other 
updates to Suriname's IPR legislation to address TRIPS implementation?  
Suriname is still working on a new IPR law which shall reflect all the international 
commitments in this area.  
(54) Page 41, Paragraph 3.107: Suriname's current legal framework pertaining to IPRs consists of 
several laws, most of which were introduced in 1912 and 1913. The Secretariat indicates that a 
new law was presented to the National Assembly in 2004. What was the subject of this proposed 
legislation, and what is its status? 
Suriname is still working on a new IPR law which shall reflect all the international 
commitments in this area. The National Asse mbly did not consider the 2004 draft law. 
(55) Table 3.4: Overview of IPR Protection, 2012: The Secretariat's report indicates service marks 
are not yet eligible for protection in Suriname, yet both the Paris Convention and TRIPS require 
that service marks be eligible for protection in their member countries. Does Suriname protect 
collective marks or certification marks? 
- Table 3.4 indicates that the patent law currently in force in Suriname is the Royal Patent Law, 
which was last amended in 1968. Have there been any further amendments to this law since 
then? 
- Does Suriname provide protection of new plant varieties by patents or by an effective sui 
generis system in line with TRIPS 27.3(b)? 
See attachment laws. (56) Page 42: Para 3.110 The Secretariat report states that "There is no administrative setting for 
patents registration in Surinam." How does one obtain a patent in Suriname?   
By registering with the Bureau of In tellectual Properties in Paramaribo. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  (57) Page 42, Paragraph 3.112: The Secretariat report indicates that "No provisions exist under 
the laws of Suriname for border protection against trademark counterfeits or copyright piracy." Have provisions been considered or draft legislation commenced that would cover border protection as required by Section 4 of TRIPS?  If so, please provide a summary of its key 
provisions.   WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  INDIA  
Questions regarding the Secretariat Report (58) Page 24-25; 37 (Para 2.55 – 2.60; 3.70 –3.72) Suriname's Investment Law of 2001 grants several fiscal as well as non-fiscal incentives for new 
investments and expansion of existing investments made in agriculture, cattle-breeding, fisheries, 
aquaculture, mining, forestry, tourism (except ca sinos), industry, trade, construction, services, 
and transport etc.  
Could Suriname provide details of the different kind s of incentives and eligibility criteria and other 
requirements that need to be satisfied for ava iling incentives under the Investment Law of 2001? 
The fiscal incentives of the Inve stment Law of 2001 expired in 2007. 
In the absence of these incentives, incentives from other laws are used.  
For example, a 90% discount on duties for in puts and equipment is given to production 
companies. 
(59) Page 54 (Para 4.62) There are nine banks op erating in Suriname: three are wholly owned by 
the State, one is majority owned by the State, an d the State has a minority holding in one. Of the 
remaining four, one (RBC Suriname) is majority owned by foreign capital (Royal Bank of Canada which took over the parent company (Royal Ba nk of Trinidad and Tobago) in 2008). Godo, the 
most recent institution to obtain a banking license, operates as a cooperative bank; it was a credit 
union until 2010. 
Suriname is requested to inform about the conditions for obtaining a banking license for foreign 
banks including minimum investment needed, if any? Is there any limit on the number of banking 
licenses that can be granted in a given year?  
There are no limitations on the number of banking licenses granted within one year. 
The conditions are the same as the ones used internationally with respect to bank 
assets, competence of management and Board etc. 
(60) Page 60 (Para 4.88) In addition to requir ing that service licenses be granted only to 
enterprises legally incorporated in Suriname, the Telecommunications Act includes other measures 
that restrict competition; for example, call-back services are expressly forbidden. 
Suriname is requested to provide the details of other measures that restrict competition in the 
telecommunication sector of Suriname?  
The "Telecommunicatie Wet Suriname" spells out the details about the restrictive 
measures. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 
TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR 4.1 Agriculture Page 43, Paragraph 4.3 
"Traditionally, livestock production has been smal l in comparison with crops, but in the past 
few years the value of production of chicken and cattle meat has increased considerably (Table 4.1)". 
What type of policy has Suriname implemente d to increase the value of production of 
chicken and cattle meat? Are ther e any State support programmes? 
The main policy consisted of Capacity bu ilding through training and education. 
The Agricultural Credit Fond at the Agricult ural Bank has contributed by investing in 
professionalization and efficiency of lives tock operations. Besides the particular 
slaughterhouses in Paramaribo, the government is managing slaughterhouses in the districts of Coronie and Nickerie. The officials in charge of veterinary services have been 
trained to upgrade the database of animal hus bandry and to activate the animal disease 
monitoring system. The pork breeders have imported new genetic material. The ministry has trained breeders in giving balanced feed. Through a FAO training program, the 
slaughter weights have increased. In the sm all ruminants sector, a breeding institution 
has been established for the cattle breeders. The personnel of the Veterinary department have been trained in HACCP - hygiene rules and in monitoring and 
conducting surveys of animal deceases. 
Page 43, Paragraph 4.4 
"The outdated land tenure system also acts as a disincentive to investment as well as restricting 
producers' access to credit". 
Does Suriname have any plans in the short te rm to modify the land tenure system that 
acts as a disincentive to investment an d restricts producers' access to credit? 
There is the GLIS program which has made cons iderable progress in the last three years. 
The Land registration process for example no w only takes 50 days and by the end of the 
year is should take 30 days.  
4.1.2 Policies Page 45, Paragraph 4.9 
"4.9. Suriname's bound tariffs are 20% for nearly  all agriculture goods, with a 50% ceiling on 
other duties and charges". 
Could Suriname please explai n which duties and charges are applied other than tariffs 
for agricultural goods? 
There are no other applicable duties and tariffs. Suriname's import duties on all agricultur al goods are bound to 20%. In the case of 
50% ceiling on other duties and charges, Suriname does not apply any. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  Page 45, paragraph 4.15 
"4.15  Rice exports are subject to a tax of SRD 10 per tonne. On the other hand, rice farmers are 
eligible for support related to fuel use, with about 1,270 farmers receiving a total of US$1.7 million 
in 2006. According to the Central Bank, SRD 12 million was set aside to support rice farmers 
in 2010". 
To what extent is the support received by rice farmers consistent with the WTO Agreements on 
Agriculture and Subsidies and Countervailing Measures?  
These restitutions are not a form of subsidies but are a compensation of the government 
take (taxes on fuel), which the rice farmers have paid. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  CANADA 
 Secretariat Report – Suriname (S282) 
Part I. Economic Environment: 1.4 Develo pments in Investment: paragraph 1.28-1.33, 
pages 15-16: 
Paragraph 1.28 refers to the lengthy delays associated with starting a business in Suriname. As 
one of Suriname's main sources of FDI, Canada has raised this issue bilaterally and continues to have a strong interest in the government's efforts to improve the ease of doing business.  
Could the delegation of Suriname please provide an update on what measures it has taken and 
plans to take to reduce administrative burdens associated with starting a business, and in particular provide an update on the status of the new investment law under development as referred to in paragraph 1.33. 
Suriname has made progress in three catego ries on the Ease of Doing Business List 
which should have justified an impr ovement of the World Bank ranking. 
These are: 
1. The abolishment in June of 2011 of mo re than 100 licensing requirements for 
companies and professions 
2. The reduction of the time for land registra tion to 50 days while by the end of 2013, 
the registration time will be reduced to 30 days 
3. The time to establish a Limited Liability Company (LLC) has been reduced to less 
than 30 days. 
Due to a communication error, not all th e improvements were communicated to the 
World Bank and as a result, the ranking of  Suriname did not improve on the list. 
With regard to a new investment law, the dr afting and consultations with the private 
sector are still ongoing. The absence of a new investment law does not influence FDI 
from Canada. The major Foreign Direct In vestments from Canada, which are very 
important to Suriname, are regulated in sp ecial agreement laws. In these customized 
laws, every aspect to encourage and protect Canadian investments in the gold mining 
sector is regulated. 
Part IV. Trade Policies by Sector: 4.1 Agri culture; 4.1.2 Policies: paragraph 4.12, 
page 45: 
2. The Secretariat Report notes that the government policy, as set out in the Multi-annual 
Development Plan 2012-2016, aims to overcome the serious constraints facing the agriculture 
sector in order to achieve food security, food safety, and to become a food supplier to the 
Caribbean, and to increase the contribution to the economy. 
Could Suriname elaborate on the types of initiatives or measures implemented under this policy, 
particularly as they relate to food security  and becoming a food supplier to the Caribbean? 
Larger quantities and improved food types, diversification of the Food basket, and better 
Storage and Food processing facilities. 
  The Ministry of Agriculture has improved its capacity in small ruminant production 
through training provided by IICA. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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    Farmers were trained in organic chili pepper production  in the areas of seed 
production, selection and storage, so il preparation, planting techniques, 
preparation and use of organic fert ilizers and organic pest management. 
  Establishment of a management system to minimize the damage from the leaf 
spots disease in the banana sector. 
  Monitoring of- and combating the Carambola Fruit Fly. 
  Farmers were trained in production of  fruit and vegetable planting material. 
  Some types of fishing boats were  limited to prevent overfishing. 
  The Quality Managers in the fishery se ctor organized a training for the high 
technical institute. 
1.  Plant and Animal Health and Food Safety: 
 Quality Management training  in the fishery sector 
 Gap training to farmers 
 In the seabob fishery, Suriname is the fi rst country with the Marine Stewart Council 
Certification (green labeling) 
 The SBBS (Banana Company) and the "GOPEX  International" (vegetable production) 
are Global GAP certified. 
2.  Soils and Water management, and land and Land Tenure: 
  Rehabilitation of infrastructure 
  Establishment of District Water Boards. 
3.  Risk management and agricultural emergencies: 
  Bio-safety training to cattle-breeders. 
4.  Climate change and Multisectora l agroenvironmental management: 
  Training in the establishment and operat ion of low-cost protected agri-systems 
  Technicians, producers, and Agriculture st udents at the University have improved 
their competence in the use of liquid and so lid substartes in producing crops in the 
greenhouse system, and in testing the e fficacy of the two techniques at two 
locations. 
  Agriculture people in the the rural area  were trained in sustainable production 
techniques (See 6). 
  Suriname, the first country in the world, has acquired the "Marine Stewart Council" 
certification (Green labeling) in 2011. 
  Introduction and distribution of a quantity  of 120 Insect Killer to reduce the use of 
chemicals in the agriculture production. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  5.  Management, leadership, an d Production and income: 
  Farmers in the rural areas were traine d in sustainable production techniques 
(See 5). 
  Farmers were trained in Agri-entrepreneurship 
  Women in the interior (Kajapati) ha ve been trained in poultry farming. 
  Fish License conditions have been sharpened. 
  Instructors are trained in bio-safety and pig farming. 
  Setting up Greenhouses for demonstrations 
  The School Garden Project is ongoing. 
6.  Focusing on rural territories and coordination mechanics and chain approach: 
  In the licensing conditions, a requirement for the shrimp trawlers is included that 
 the fish nets must be provided wi th a Turtle Excluder Device (TED). 
7.  Institutional capacity and Investment in agriculture and rural development: 
  There is an increasing demand for th e Agriculture Credit Fund which has a 
 revolving character. 
  The farmers in the interior are being tr ained in sustainable production methods. 
  A cassava factory was established, wh ere the farmers can sell their cassava. 
  Farmers were trained in organic chilipepper, which enables them to meet the 
 market demand in Europe (thr ough a training from the IICA). 
  The Ministry of Agriculture has improved its capacity in small ruminant production 
 through training from the IICA. 
  Farmers in Pierre Kondre (Interior) were trained in the establishment and 
 operation of low cost protected agri–systems. 
  Pine apple producers in the Para District  have been trained in organic pineapple 
 production (an IICA project).  WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  COLOMBIA 
Document WT/TPR/S/282  
2. TRADE POLICY REGIME: FRAMEWORK AND OBJECTIVES 
2.1 Introduction 
According to paragraph 2.4 of the Secretariat report , "Suriname became a contracting party 
to the GATT in 1978, and is an original Member of the WTO. Suriname did not participate in the 
post-Uruguay Round negotiations on financial services or telecommunications, but it made 
commitments on basic telecommunications in 1998. Its participation in the WTO has focused on the agriculture negotiations where, for some products, the CARICOM common external tariff 
is higher than the bound tariffs in Suriname's Schedule. It has submitted several notifications 
to the WTO but others are pending, which reduces the transparency of its trade regime. The authorities argue that developing countries are,  by nature, not able to submit all notifications 
because of the structure and accessibility of the WTO. Suriname has no WTO mission in Geneva." 
1.  What type of measures has Suriname considered taking in order to improve the 
transparency of its trade regime through the submission of notifications to the WTO? 
Transparency of notifications 
1. Suriname notifies measures as soon as th ey are taken. Passing laws in Suriname 
takes relatively long, but every new law is notified as soon as it takes effect. For 
example, the notification of pre-shipme nt will take place now. Last year, the 
Bureau of Standards was notified. With regard to transparency with local 
stakeholders, we can report the follo wing. Suriname has taken a number of 
measures to improve transparency of notifications to the WTO. First, the trade law was changed in 2003 to a liberal system with  a Negative List. With regard to trade 
negotiations and trade issues, there are constant consultations with the private 
sector and NGOs. Between 2006 and 2010, a Trade Sector Support Program was executed financed by the Inter-American  Development Bank with the purpose of 
laying the foundation for a transparent tr ade regime, trade negotiating capacity 
building and policy making. 
2. TRADE POLICY REGIME: FRAMEWORK AND OBJECTIVES 
2.4 Trade policy objectives 
2.4.2 Sectoral trade policy objectives 
Paragraph 2.38 of the Secretariat report states that  "Suriname's agricultural policy is focused 
on ensuring food security and safety for its popu lation, as well as becoming a major food producer 
for the Caribbean region. To meet these goals, the Government calls upon producers, consumers, 
and policy makers to work together at the national and international level. More investment, improved spatial planning, and increased exports are necessary to accomplish the agricultural 
policy plans. The key areas identified in the OP are palm oil, rice, fruits and vegetables, bananas, 
floriculture, and livestock." 
2.  What kinds of measures or plans has Suriname envisaged to guarantee food security and 
safety in the development of its agricultural policy? 
Food Security 2. There are several measures to ensure f ood security such as: infrastructural 
improvements for agriculture, training of farmers, training in the field of 
agribusiness and diversification of agricu ltural products. Occasionally, cows are 
imported to ensure the adequate number of cows for slaughterhouses. The number of milk producers has also been increased. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  2. TRADE POLICY REGIME: FRAMEWORK AND OBJECTIVES 
2.4 Trade policy objectives  
2.4.2 Sectoral trade policy objectives 
According to paragraph 2.39 of the Secretariat report, "[t]he mining sector is the most important 
contributor to Suriname's economy, generating 90%  of its export income. Despite its desire to 
diversify the economy, the Government recognizes the short-term relevance of mining, in generating foreign currency and more jobs, albeit  in limited numbers in this capital-intensive 
sector. It recognizes the environmental challenges for this sector and seeks more control over the 
exploitation and exploration of rights and territories. No specific trade-oriented policies or measures have been taken to enhance, improve or extend Suriname's position in the gold, bauxite, or oil sector, aside from seeking more partnerships and investments." 
3.  What policies is Suriname applying in the short term to diversify its exports away from 
mining products? 
Diversification of exports from mineral domination 
3. The exports of Suriname have been divers ified in the last number of years. The  
export portfolio now consists of among other things: rice, bananas, vegetables, 
fish and fishery products, frozen fish, w ood, wooden logs, plastics, live animals, 
water, juices, soft drinks, milk, spices, metal scrap, and shrimps. The policies are 
to continue this trend. 
3. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE 
3.1 Measures Directly Affecting Imports 
3.1.1 Registration and customs procedures 
According to paragraph 3.2 of the Secretariat report, "Suriname does not have a preshipment 
inspection programme or equivalent measures . However, in the context of this Review, 
the authorities indicated that a new PSI programme will be launched as of April 2013." 
4.  Does Suriname now have a preshipment inspection program in operation? 
Pre shipment inspection  
4. Suriname has had no pre-shipment inspecti on as of today. The official planned  
date of the start of the pre-shipment inspection is June 17, 2013.  
3. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE 
3.1 Measures Directly Affecting Imports 
3.1.1  Standards and technical regulations 
Paragraph 3.45 states that "[t]he authorities have indicated that once the SSB is notified 
as Suriname's enquiry point, notifications of technical regulations will follow." 
5.  Is Suriname intending to notify the authority in charge of technical regulations and the 
technical regulations themselves? 
Notification of Customs procedures 
5. The Ministry of Trade and Industry is th e focal point for notifications and will do  
the relevant notifications in a timely manner. 
 WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  REPLIES PROVIDED BY SURINAME TO FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS 
UNITED STATES 
Questions regarding the Secretariat Report 
TRADE POLICIES BY MEASURE - Measures Directly Affecting Imports 
REGISTRATION AND CUSTOMS PROCEDURES 
(48) Page 27, paragraph 3.2: The Secretariat report states "in the context of this Review, the 
authorities indicated that a new PSI programme will be launched as of April 2013." Please provide 
an update regarding the new preshipment inspection (PSI) program. What products will require a 
preshipment inspection? What is the reason for which Suriname established PSI requirements? When will Suriname notify this requirement?  
Suriname established these PSI requirement fo r revenue purposes. Tentatively it will be 
in force as of 17 June 2013. Societe general de surveillance is the agency responsible for 
carrying out this regime. This will  only be applied for 18 months. 
U.S. Follow up Question: Is there a possibility of extension of the PSI requirements beyond the 
initial 18 months?  
The PSI is not a long term measure. SGS will do the job for a maximum period of 
18 months. 
IMPORT PROHIBITIONS, RESTRICTIONS, AND LICENSING 
(50) Page 33, paragraph 3.36: It appears that Suriname's last notification to the WTO in 
accordance with Article 7.3 of the Import Licensing Procedures Agreement is contained in G/LIC/N/3/SUR/1, dated October 9, 2009. In light of the annual notification requirement under 
Article 7.3, does Suriname intend to submit an updated notification?  
U.S. Follow up Question:  We note that this question was not answered. In light of the annual 
notification requirement under Article 7.3, does Suriname intend to submit an updated 
notification?   
Suriname will submit an update. However, si nce the last notification, no new import 
restrictions were imposed. 
MEASURES AFFECTING PRODUCTION AND TRADE 
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS 
(54) Page 41, Paragraph 3.107: Suriname's current legal framework pertaining to IPRs consists of 
several laws, most of which were introduced in 1912 and 1913. The Secretariat indicates that a 
new law was presented to the National Assembly in 2004. What was the subject of this proposed 
legislation, and what is its status? 
Suriname is still working on a new IPR law which shall reflect all the international 
commitments in this area. The National Asse mbly did not consider the 2004 draft law. 
U.S. Follow up Question : Why did the National Assembly not consider the 2004 draft law? Are 
there efforts underway to provide a new draft law? 
The National Assembly did not consider the 2004 draft legislation because they 
considered it outdated. The draft law was u pdated with the assistance of the WIPO in 
2006 but this new draft did not make the agenda of the National Assembly. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  (55) Table 3.4: Overview of IPR Protection, 2012: The Secretariat's report indicates service marks 
are not yet eligible for protection in Suriname, yet both the Paris Convention and TRIPS require that service marks be eligible for protection in their member countries. Does Suriname protect 
collective marks or certification marks? 
Collective marks or certification marks are new issues to Suriname and we currently 
have no legislation to regulate them. The new law regarding Inte llectual Property will 
deal with these issues. 
- Table 3.4 indicates that the patent law currently in force in Suriname is the Royal Patent 
Law, which was last amended in 1968. Have there been any further amendments to this law since then? 
The current law regarding patents dates back to 1968. This law was taken over from the 
Dutch Law because Suriname was a colony of the Kingdom of The Netherlands back 
then. The law is in reality ineffective simply because we have no organization in place to 
protect patents. 
- Does Suriname provide protection of new plant varieties by patents or by an effective sui 
generis system in line with TRIPS 27.3(b)? 
Suriname has no legislation regarding protecti on of new plant varieties by patents or by 
an effective sui generis system as required by TRIPS article 27.3(b) 
See attachment laws. U.S. Follow up Question : Please clarify what is meant by “see attachment laws,” as we did not 
receive any attachment. 
i. Please confirm that the Royal Patent Law amended in 1968 is the latest version that is 
currently in effect. Please see answer above.  
ii. Please point to the specific law that provides for protection of new plant varieties currently in 
effect. Please see answer above.  
iii. Please confirm that the new IPR legislation on which Suriname is working with WIPO will 
contain updated plant protection and plant variety protection provision that are in 
conformity with TRIPS. Yes, because the regional commitments also obligate us to do 
so. WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  ATTACHMENT LAWS 
A few professionals and technicians attended short training courses in different aspects of seed 
technology (nationally, region ally and internationally). There is one professional with a graduate degree in Seed Technology.  
7.3. Legislation  
Legislation on import and export of animals (wildl ife, pets, farm animals, and poultry), plants and 
micro-organisms can be found in the legislation listed below (Hoefnagel, 2001):  
 Game Act of 1954, amended in 1980, 1982,1986 and 1994.  
  Law on Forest Management of 1992.  
  Game Resolution of 1970, amended in 1973 Annual Ministerial Game Decrees.  
  Law on Regulation for Import and Export of 1954 Nature Protection Act of 1954.  
  Fish Stock Protection Act of 1961, amended in 1963 The Fish Stock Protection Resolution 
 of 1961.  
  Sea Fisheries Decree of 1980.  
  Aquaculture Act.  
  State Resolution Negative List of 1999, amen ded in 2000 Regulation on the Prevention and 
 Control of Animal Diseases. 1954 Plant Protection Act of 1965 No. 102.  
  Seed Act of 2005.  
 Draft Plant Breeder's Right Act. 
Existing legislation on Plant Qu arantine and Plant Propagation  
Plant Protection Act of 1965 (Plantbeschermingsverordening, G.B. 1965  No. 102 as amended 
by S.B. 1980 no 116)  
Suriname is party to the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), which aims at 
maintaining and increasing international cooperation in controlling pests and diseases of plants and 
plant products, and the prevention of their introd uction and spread across national boundaries. 
The current Plant Protection Act is based on the 1951 text of the IPPC. The act is outdated and 
does not reflect either modern phytosanitary concepts or international norms agreed-upon. For 
example the act does not contain provisions relate d to biosafety. The Plant Protection and Quality 
Control Division (plant Quarantine Division) of the Ministry of Agriculture is the responsible authority.  
For the import of plants, plant parts, and seed approval is needed from the Plant Quarantine 
Division of the MAAHF. (State Resolution Negative List, 2000). Article 11 (1) of the Seed Act (2005) indicates that a permit is needed for the import 01 seed (including vegetatively propagated 
planting material) into Suriname. Before ordering plants, plant parts, and seed, the importer needs 
approval to import this material from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries (MAAHF). The Ministry of Trade and Industry issues permit to import. The Plant Quarantine Division is the responsible authority for granting the approval. At present seed and vegetative 
propagation material is imported and when needed  tested on the presence of pests (weed seed, 
fungi, bacteria, nematodes). The Plant Quaranti ne Division does not execute the screening but 
several Plant Protection Divisions of the Research  Department of the MAAHF. Quarantine plays an 
important factor to be able to move genetic mate rial through the borders.  Plant genetic resources WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  accessions should meet the requirements stated in the Plant Protection Act of 1965 No. 102.  
Draft Plant Protection Act (Ontwerp Plantenbeschermingswet)  
Currently there is a draft plant protection act at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and 
Fisheries. This model was prepared based on the model that was prepared by the FAO especially 
for CARICOM countries and is in line with IPPC 1997  text. The objective of this act is to prevent the 
introduction and spread of pests of plants and to protect the vegetable resources by facilitating the trade in plants and plant products and the regulation of relevant issues. With regard to LMOs, it 
can be stated that this draft provides the opportunity to prohibit or restrict the entry of certain 
plants, plant products and other regulated goods into the country. Both exotic plants and LMOs 
can be prohibited when they can be harmful to th e local flora. The newly drafted Plant Protection 
act was reviewed by and discussed with the relevant stakeholders, it is expected that this draft will 
soon be submitted to the Legal Department of the Ministry of Justice and Police for screening.  
The Seed Act of 2005  The Seed Act was formalized in 2005. The Seed Act encompasses regulations for the production, 
quality and sale of seed. The objective is to sustain increase the production of seed and guarantee 
improvement of quality. ISTA (International Seed Testing Association) norms will be applied. Also seed quality control and certification will be done according to the ISTA rules. The Seed Act is a 
framework. All implementation regulations with re gard to technical aspects will be by means of 
Government Decrees.  
Draft Plant Breeder's Right Act  A Draft Plant Breeders' Right Act has been develo ped which aims at the protection of improved 
plant varieties and the increase of the productivity in both agriculture and horticulture and the 
protection of the grower. Breeder's right is also regulated as an Intellectual property right in this draft. The Draft Plant Breeder's Right Act has rece ntly been screened by the Legal Department of 
the Ministry of Justice and Police and was returned to the MAAHF for adjustment.  
Legislation on the Introduction of Species  Plant Protection Act of 1965 (Plantbeschermingsverordening, GB. 1965 no. 102 as amended by 
S. B. 1980 no 116)  
(Refer to information listed under the heading "Existing legislation on Plant Quarantine and Plant 
Propagation")  
1954 Act to Control Animal Diseases (Landsverordening bestrijding dierziekten, G.B. 1954 
amended by 8.8. 1986 no. 70)  
The objective of this Act is to prevent and combat animal diseases, and to control animals and 
animal products on harmful substances.  
The 1954 Act to Control Animal Diseases is relevant to animal quarantine when other animals are 
in danger. The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, in particular the Director of the Department of Animal Husbandry, is the resp onsible authority under the Act. Enforcement is 
entrusted to the Head of the Animal Husbandry Service and the inspectors reporting under him. 
According to reports, however, in practice th e Head of the Veterinary department and the 
veterinary inspectors are carrying out these tasks. The act is applicable to all living animals, including poultry, birds, reptiles and insects. The Act contains several provisions aimed at 
preventing and controlling animal diseases, some of which may be dangerous to human health. 
The animal diseases are listed in a Government Decree. Paragraph 3 of the Act specifically deals with the import of animals. It is prohibited to import animals without a permit. The permit contains 
specific requirements. It is stated in the permit that in case of an outbreak of a contagious animal 
disease in the country of origin/sending, while a permit is pending, the permit will be withdrawn. This regards agricultural animals like cows, sheep and domestic animals like dogs and cats.  WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  When it regards the import of Wildlife (including CITES species), the Nature Conservation division, 
section permits and licenses, permits a license.  
As was mentioned before The Veterinary Inspection Division (VID) of the MAAHF is in charge of the 
implementation and enforcement of the regulati on on the Prevention and Control of Animal 
Diseases as well as import and export control of animals. For import of animals (for use as farm 
animals and other uses), the importer has to submit relevant information to the MAAHF, such as the purpose for import (e.g. research, production), expectations etc. On the basis of the 
information a permit is granted, after an official health certificate from the country of origin (issued 
by an authorized institute) is submitted. In case of animals on the CITES list, a permit from the MNR is required. On the import certificate it is mentioned that the importer is obligated to inform the VJD 48 hours ahead about the date of arrival. A quarantine period of 30 days is set, at the 
place of confinement. (a farm, a home). If impo rted animals show signs of a harmful pest, they 
are killed, even if the health certificate states otherwise. Inspectors of VID or veterinarians will come at regular times to monitor the animals. If necessary the period of quarantine can be 
extended (is also stated in the license). The VID works in close collaboration with the Customs 
Office.  
There are initiatives to draft a new Animal Health Act based on the CARICOM Model Animal Health 
Act of 2001.  
Legislation on Conservation and Protection of Species  The Nature Protection Act of 1954 is the legislative cornerstone for conservation in Suriname. 
The act recognizes that establishing protecte d areas is important to scientific knowledge, 
recreation and education, as well as for ethica l and economic reasons. To qualify as a nature 
reserve, an area must be noteworthy because of it s biodiversity or varied landscape, or as a result 
of fauna, flora or geological features of scientific or cultural value.  
The Forest Management Act of 1992. In this law is included some legislation relating to nature 
conservation and the trade of wood products. Presently new legislation is under preparation.  
Although there is no specific wildlife trade legislation enacted in Suriname. Article 15 paragraph 2 
of the Game Act and Article 49 paragraph 4 of the Law on Forest Management are used to apply 
the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES) in Suriname for animals and plants respectively. The Head of the Nature Conservation Division (NCD) of the Suriname Forest Service, which is part of  the MNR, acts as the CITES Management Authority 
on behalf of the head of the Forest Service. The Scientific Authority in Suriname is the Nature 
Conservation Commission. However this commission  has not been active for several years. Some 
funds were set aside to reactivate the commission but no substantive progress was made so far. 
Some HCITES appendix II- species" are not protected by the Game Law. However all specimens of 
wild game and flora require a permit for export or import, based on the State Resolution Negative List.  
The Fish Protection Act an d The Sea Fisheries Decree cover fish, although the marine turtles 
are covered by the Game Resolution as Game Specie s. The Fish Protection Act and Fish Protection 
Resolution provide for very limited protection of fresh water fish. Eight fish species are protected by setting limits on the size to be captured and non-fishing seasons are determined for certain 
species. The Sea Fisheries Decree provides for the enactment of the regulations on the fishing of 
certain species, the establishment of minimum ha rvest sizes, open and closed seasons, maximum 
allowable catches the use of certain methods or fishing gear (art 25). In 2001, a provision was 
included to prohibit fishing from April to July north of the Galibi beach to protect the sea turtles. 
The current law is not applicable in the territorial sea; so marine turtles are currently not protected while at sea.  
The Draft Aquaculture Act states that a license from the Fisheries Department of the MAAHF is 
needed to fish aquarium fish. It also specifies certain quarantine periods but does not mention permits for import and export. These are requir ed on the basis of the State negative list 
(Hoefnagel, 2001).  WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  Legislation on Intellectual Property Rights  
National legislation with regard to Intellectual Pr operty Rights is outdated and not adjusted to 
recent developments. This implies that the law in Suriname cannot satisfactorily protect Intellectual Property Rights. If it is the Government's intention to actively take part in international 
trade, it is highly recommended that the intellec tual property rights law and – institutions are 
adapted.  
A few existing laws that are applicable to Intellectual Property Rights are listed below:  
Patent Act, 1910 (Octrooiwef 1910. G.B. 1969 no. 43)  
The Suriname patent right is based on a Patent Ac t of 1910. The patent right is an exclusive right 
granted to the inventor of a novel product, method  or an improvement of an industrial product. A 
patent, once granted gives the patent holder the exclusive right:  
The application for obtaining a patent should be forwarded to the Office for Industrial Property.  
In case of a biotechnology product the Patent Act could be an opportunity for registration. For 
genetically engineered products the system existing in Suriname has no possibilities for 
registration. The possibilities to protect traditional knowledge from indigenous communities could 
possibly be included in the Patent Act. With this, indigenous knowledge can be handled as a trade secret, only when commercialized properly. The outdated Surinamese laws can protect traditional 
knowledge to a certain extent, but provide no full protection for the intellectual contribution.  
The Civil Code (Burgelijk Wetboek, GB. 1968 no. 14 as last amended by S.B. 1995 No. 101).  
This regards the provisions on product liability and misleading advertisement. It is stated in 
Article 1401j that misleading can concern the nature, composition, the amount, the quality, 
characteristics and options for use of products or services. This can be applicable if it regards 
information dissemination or misleading advertisement with regards to LMOs.  
Draft legislation on Intern ational Property Rights  
Draft Act on Intellectual property rights  
The Intellectual Property Office has been working on a Draft Intellectual Property Rights Act. This 
draft provides provisions regarding trade names,  patent, geographical origin. According to the 
information on this draft, the issue of LMOs is not taken into consideration while drafting the bill.  
Draft Plant Breeder's Right Act  A Draft Plant Breeder's Right Act has been develo ped which aims at the protection of improved 
plant varieties and the increase of the productivity in both agriculture and horticulture and the 
protection of the grower. Breeder's right is also regulated as an Intellectual property right in this 
draft. The Draft Plant Breeder's Right Act has rece ntly been screened by the Legal Department of 
the Ministry of Justice and Police and was returned to the MAAHF for adjustment.  
Intellectual Property Rights  
For several years there have been discussions, internationally on the legal protection of 
germplasm. An answer to the question whether or  not patent should be requested for germplasm 
was not yet agreed upon. In fact, for material th at could be of commercial value, the rights and 
obligations of collectors should have been decided. For developing countries, like Suriname, protection of plant genetic resources would be us eful. This could ensure that when germplasm is 
exploited the benefits will be shared between private investors and national governments. In brief 
it may be stated that "Intellectual Property Protection" will lead to regulations on access to 
germplasm and on collecting improvement, exchange and use of germplasm.  WT/TPR/M/282/Add.1 
 
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  Suriname is party to several international treaties/conventions, both global and regional, which 
focus to varying extents on management of wildlife, animals and plants that recognize the vital need for environmental protection. These treaties include:  
 the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (1971);  
 the Convention for the Protection of the Wo rld Cultural and Natural Heritage (1972);  
 the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) (1973);  
 the Treaty for Amazonian Cooperation (1978);  
 the Convention on Biological Diversity (1992);  
 the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea;  
 the International Plant Protection Convention; and  
 the Conservation projects and Framework Convention on Climate Change (1992).  
__________