WT/TPR/M/374  
9 October 2018  
(18-6177)  Page: 1/43 
Trade Policy Review Body  
27 and 29 June 2018   
 
  
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
URUGUAY  
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Eloi Laourou (Benin)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMA RKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT B Y THE REPRESENTATIVE  OF URUGUAY  ................................ .... 4 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  7 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEM BERS  ................................ ................................ ..........................  9 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRES ENTATIVE OF URUGUAY AND ADDITIONAL 
COMMENTS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  37 
6  CONCLUDING REMARK S BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  42 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by Uruguay  are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 374/Add.1  and will be available 
online at http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The fifth Trade Policy Review of Uruguay  was held on 27 and 29 June 2018. The Chairperson, 
H.E. Mr Eloi Laourou (Benin), welcomed the delegation of Uruguay , headed by H.E. Ambassador 
Carlos Amorín, Director General of the Secretariat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ; the rest of the 
delegation; and the discussant, H.E. Ambassa dor Diego Aulestia  (Ecuador ). 
1.2.  The Chairpers on recalled the purpose of the trade policy r eviews , and the main elements of 
the procedures for the meeting. The report by Uruguay  was co ntained in document 
WT/TPR/G/374 , and that of the  WTO Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/374 . 
1.3.  Questions by the following delegations had been submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Peru; Mexico; the European Union; Guatemala; Australia; Brazil; the United States; China; El 
Salvador; Chile; Costa Rica; Japan; and  the Dominican Republic . The following delegations 
submitted written questions after the deadline : New Zealand; Canada; Argentina; Ecuador; 
Norway;  Korea, Republic of ; Thailand; and Turkey . 
1.4.  At the previous Review in 2012, Uruguay had been  strongly commende d by Members for 
successfully facing the global economic crisis without making use of trade -restrictive policies. 
Members had noted that Uruguay 's trade regime had been  largely open , with low tariffs and few 
non-tariff barriers to trade. Members had also e xpressed their appreciation of Uruguay 's efforts to 
implement trade facilitation measures and to dismantle several charges applied on imports. 
Members had identified some areas w here improvement would be welcome, including: the 
mandatory use of local custo ms agents, the application of a consular fee, and some non -automatic 
licensing requirements. They had also encouraged Uruguay to step up efforts to provide more 
information regarding the elaboration of technical regulations, to comply with its outstanding WTO 
notification obligations, and to improve some aspects of the implementation of its SPS regime.  
1.5.  During the period under review , Uruguay continued to implement macroeconomic policies 
geared towards ensuring stability. As a result, it experienced real ann ual average GDP growth of 
3% between 2011 and 2017, helped by a prudent monetary policy stance, a flexible exchange rate 
regime, a reduction in the fiscal deficit and an improvement in the external current account, which 
is now in surplus.  
1.6.  As a member of M ERCOSUR, Uruguay 's trade policies were largely determined by the 
common polices adopted by the trading bloc. In addition,  during this period, Uruguay had  active ly 
participated in the WTO; it had  accepted the amendmen t to the TRIPS Agreement and had  ratified 
the Trade Facilitatio n Agreement. Uruguay had also granted  preferential treatment to service 
providers from least -developed countries.  
1.7.  In the last six years, Uruguay had  taken several steps towards the facilitation of trade, 
including: the use o f an electronic payment system and of digital customs clearance forms; the 
implementation of a Single Window for Trade; and the certification of Authorized Economic 
Operators. Nevertheless, the consular fee, which was mentioned at the time of the last Revi ew, 
had remained  in place and has been increased.  
1.8.  Uruguay 's average tariff rate in 2017 was 9.4%, unchanged s ince 2011. During this Review it  
has been noted that Uruguay had  recourse to few non -tariff barriers, and that these were mainly 
used to protect p ublic health, national security, the environment, phytosanitary conditions, and 
consumers. The Chairperson was sure Members would welcome this development as , during the 
last Review , questions had been  raised regarding the import licensing regime and the a doption of 
TBT and SPS measures. In addition, Uruguay rarely resorted  to the use of anti -dumping, 
countervailing or safeguard measures.  
1.9.  State owned enterprises (SOEs) continue d to play an important role in Uruguay 's economy. 
They operate d in different sect ors of the economy such as: the financial sector, transport and 
postal services, and util ities. During the period under r eview, Uruguay continued to reform its 
government procurement regime to expedite procedures and increase transparency, an area which 
Members had noted during the previous Review. Ho wever, the legislation continued  to allow 
exceptions to the general public tendering regime , and preferences are granted to specific sectors.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  1.10.   The Chairperson drew Members' attention to some areas where they were interested in 
having more clarity, as shown by their advance written questions. These include d: the use of the 
consular fee, the government procurement system, technical regulati ons and phytosanitary 
measures, s tate participation in the service s sector, and market access in different sectors of the 
economy.  
1.11.   This meeting was a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail these and 
other issues related to the trade policies and practices of Uruguay. The Chairperson looked forward 
to a fruitful  exchange.  
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE OF URUGUAY  (H.E. AMBASSADOR 
CARLOS AMORÍN )  
2.1.  Uruguay sees the WTO Trade Policy Review Mechanism as a key to the proper functioning of 
the Organization. Thanks to the mechanism's central objective, transparency, each Member is able 
to present to other Members their current trade policy guidelines as well as road maps for the 
future. Uruguay has been able to present its trade policies in detail ever since the first mechanism 
was introduced, prior to t he creation of the WTO itself.  
2.2.  A consistent believer in respect for the law and in good faith compliance with international 
agreements as the guiding principles of its foreign policy, Uruguay has shown a firm commitment 
to the guidelines laid down by the G ATT and the WTO, and believes that the obligations arising 
therefrom must be respected as the cornerstone of international trade.  
2.3.   Uruguay is a staunch proponent of the principle of multilateralism in relations among States 
in general and in its trade rela tions in particular. It is convinced that the commitment to 
multilateralism guarantees the rights of all nations, in particular the less  developed among them. 
Uruguay has always been an active proponent of open trade, of the reduction of barriers affecting  
trade, and of non -discrimination among Members of the system, which constituted the foundation 
of the GATT and subsequently the WTO, and are fundamental to the country as the essential legal 
platform for international trade.  
2.4.  In other words, Uruguay sees t he opening up of economies as something that contributes to 
the welfare and development of peoples, and has always maintained an active role in multilateral 
trade, as evidenced by its accession to the GATT in 1953 and its participation in all of the trade 
rounds held in this context. At the same time, it has strongly advocated the inclusion of agriculture 
in the multilateral negotiating agenda, a demand that was finally met for the first time with 
the Uruguay Round.  
2.5.  At the same time, it is particularly impo rtant to recall Uruguay's role in launching the round 
that carries its name and, together with other agricultural exporters, such as the Cairns Group, its 
key role in bringing the Uruguay Round to a conclusion. The agreements reached, although 
perhaps insu fficient to achieve the effective opening up of the world to agricultural trade, 
represent for Uruguay a fundamental step forward.  
2.6.  In this uncertain trade environment in which multilateral trade is being challenged, Uruguay 
reaffirms its commitment to the WTO, and believing that the multilateral framework is the best 
way to approach trade issues, and agricultural issues in particular, Uruguay considers that it is 
essential to revitalize the role of the WTO in world trade.  
2.7.  Similarly, in spite of this general ly negative external environment and the uncertainty that 
has affected world trade in the past few years, Uruguay has kept its economy open to the world 
and has steered clear of any protectionist measures.  
2.8.  The continued expansion of Uruguay's economy in 20 17 testifies to the wisdom of this 
approach, which has enabled the country to achieve 15 years of uninterrupted economic growth, a 
trend that is without precedent in country's history.  
2.9.  To attain that objective, the Government adopted a development strategy  that focused on 
stimulating investment; keeping the economy, as mentioned, open to the world; pursuing the 
social policies of inclusion that have led to a significant decrease in inequality and a major 
improvement in social indicators, ensuring that the m ost disadvantaged social sectors have their 
share in the benefits of growth.  
2.10.   Thus, since 2004 Uruguay has been able to achieve greater fairness in the distribution of 
household income, and poverty and extreme poverty have fallen to historically low levels.  
2.11.   As a result, while in 2006 32.5% of the population was considered poor, in 2012 the figure 
had fallen to 12.4%, and in 2017 to 7.9%. At the same time, the Gini coefficient has steadily 
decreased since 2006.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  2.12.   The main driving forces behind Uruguay's uninter rupted growth are greater diversification of 
exports and the considerable foreign direct investment that the country has harnessed from 
different parts of the world, reaffirming and boosting confidence in the country's institutional 
framework and economic policy.  
2.13.   It is important to note that these investments have led to an improvement in the technology 
and knowledge incorporated into the various stages of the production system in traditional areas 
such as agriculture, and this, in its turn, has brought about a diversification of export markets for 
Uruguayan goods.  
2.14.   With respect to exports, a paradigm change is under way involving an increase in the 
importance of trade in services alongside the diversification achieved in different sectors.  
2.15.   As regards macr oeconomic projections and prospects, Uruguay is faced with challenges at 
the domestic level as it positions itself to confront the changing international situation. In this 
connection, the Government has set a target consisting of curbing public debt growt h, with the 
ultimate objective of ensuring the sustainability of public finances as a cornerstone of 
macroeconomic stability.  
2.16.   A country's trade policy being a set of tools and measures that determine international 
integration, it should be pointed out that  Uruguay's main focus externally, when it comes to 
integration, has historically been the improvement of market access conditions for exportable 
goods and services. Consequently, its basic objective in any multilateral, regional or bilateral 
negotiations h as been the achievement of stable and predictable market access conditions.  
2.17.   In the multilateral area, and specifically within the WTO, Uruguay attaches major 
importance to the Organization's role as a negotiating forum for international trade and, in that 
framework, stresses the priority that should be given to continuing the agriculture negotiations, for 
which the Uruguay Round provided a clear mandate that has yet to be fulfilled.  
2.18.   At the same time, Uruguay recognizes what was approved at the Bali  Minister ial Conference 
in December  2013 as a major achievement. This is evidenced by the fact that through Law 
No. 19414 of 30  June 2016, Uruguay incorporated the Trade  Facilitation  Agreement concluded in 
Bali in its legislation.  
2.19.   With a clear view to complying wit h what was agreed in Bali, Uruguay created the 
Interministerial Trade Facilitation Committee for the purpose of implementing the provisions of 
Agreement.  
2.20.   At the same time, Uruguay believes that the WTO must tackle the challenges posed by the 
new realities of world trade. Hence the importance of working on initiatives aimed at achieving 
better integration of micro, small and medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the international 
economy, in keeping with the priority given by Uruguay to these enterprises in it s domestic 
legislation and in its efforts to develop suitable products to meet their needs.  
2.21.   As the current dynamics of international trade involve a number of new elements, Uruguay 
has put forward initiatives on electronic government, a new customs code an d the Single Window 
for Foreign Trade.  
2.22.   As regards e -commerce, over the past ten years Uruguay has taken a strategic path that 
has led to digital development becoming one of the country's hallmarks throughout the world, as 
evidenced by its recent inclusion in the D7 group of the world's most advanced digital nations.  
2.23.   Meanwhile, in September  2014 Uruguay issued Law No.  19276 introducing its new 
Customs  Code, aimed at standardizing the country's customs legislation and adapting it to the new 
needs and requirem ents of current international trade.  
2.24.   Similarly, 2013 saw the entry into operation of the Single Window for Foreign Trade as part 
of the series of measures introduced by Uruguay to meet its Bali commitment. Initiated in 2011, 
this is a platform that enables  information and documents to be electronically optimized and WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  combined at a single entry point for the purposes of fulfilling all import, export and transit 
formalities.  
2.25.   In keeping with its WTO commitments, Uruguay implemented the Nairobi Ministerial 
Decis ion on export competition, having recently communicated to the Committee on Market Access 
the modifications to Part  IV, Section  II of Schedule XXXI reporting the elimination of export 
subsidies as agreed at the mentioned Ministerial Conference in 2015.  
2.26.   As a member of the Friends of the System Group, Uruguay supports the call to strengthen 
the multilateral trading system, whose rules are the key to global economic stability, prosperity 
and development. Uruguay shares the prevailing concern regarding the incr eased tensions and the 
risks that they bring to international trade, and welcomes the focus on seeking balances and 
settling disputes through dialogue and cooperation, for which purpose the WTO has the necessary 
structure and resources. This means prioriti zing and highlighting the validity and efficiency of the 
WTO dispute settlement system as the main guarantor of the principles and rules governing the 
multilateral trading system.  
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
3.1.  Let me begin by saying what a great honour it is for me to have been appointed Discussant 
for Uruguay's fifth Trade Policy Review.  
3.2.  I welcome the presence here today of the delegation of Uruguay headed by his 
Excellency  Ambassador  Carlos  Amorín, Director -General of the Secretariat of the Ministry of 
Foreign Affairs, as well as the Representative of the Eastern Republic of Uruguay to the WTO, 
Ambassador  José Luis Cancela. I extend my greetings to the Secretariat staff involved in this 
review, headed by Mr  Willy Alfaro.  
3.3.  I would like, with your permission,  to begin with some contextual background. Throughout 
much of its history, Uruguay's economic and social indicators have evolved significantly. In 1900, 
Uruguay had the lowest illiteracy rate in Latin  America, and by 1940 it already had the highest 
per capita GDP in the region. This remains true in 2017, with an average per capita income of 
US$17,000. Six decades ago, Uruguay's population already had the highest life expectancy in the 
region, 18 years higher than the Latin American average. The picture woul d not be complete, 
however, if we were to omit to mention that Uruguay has the world's highest number of 
football  world cups per capita, a number which may well increase in the next few days.  
3.4.  This context should help us to understand the country's current situation – and its progress.  
3.5.  Turning to the real and external sector, let me begin by congratulating Uruguay for 
continuing to pursue the target of the previous review and for achieving macroeconomic stability, 
as reflected in a 3.6% annual increase in GD P for the period 2011 -2017.  
3.6.  The country has overcome vulnerabilities in the production sector by fostering investment in 
production followed up by a process of international integration at both the regional and 
multilateral levels.  
3.7.  As regards the compositi on of the economy, the role of exports in the domestic product has 
decreased owing to a surge in domestic consumption. At the same time, it is important to stress 
Uruguay's progress in boosting the share in the economy of the services sector, which grew fr om 
58% in 2011 to 61% in 2017, and accounts for more than 70% of total employment.  
3.8.  In the services area, information technology was the sector that experienced the greatest 
increase during the review period.  
3.9.  These economic indicators would be incomplete if  we failed to mention their social impact: in 
particular, Uruguay's efforts to reduce poverty resulted in a decrease of nine percentage points for 
the period 2010 -2016, from 18.5% to 9.4%.  
3.10.   Within this social context, we applaud the significant current expe nditure in priority areas 
such as health, social security and education, education, which alone accounted for 6% of GDP at 
the end of the period. This reflects the country's priorities when it comes to laying the foundations 
of an even better future.  
3.11.   Turning to the export sector, Uruguay has worked hard with the special regimes to promote 
exports, taking account of the economic situation in each sector of the Uruguayan economy and 
the tariff access of each of its trading partners. In this respect, for the purposes of international 
integration and the diversification of exports, Uruguay is involving the micro, small and 
medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the export process, thereby promoting the country's export 
culture.  
3.12.   In the same vein, Uruguay has de veloped a number of entrepreneurship programmes, 
stressing the importance of exports in the services, information and communications technologies 
(ICT), pharmaceutical and health sectors. These programmes are managed under the 
National  System for Productiv e Transformation and Competitiveness, through which enterprises 
can obtain non -reimbursable co -financing for capacity building or enhancing their marketing and 
sales strategies with a view to internationalization.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  3.13.   On the regional integration front, we are closely following the negotiating process between 
MERCOSUR and the European Union, two of the world's largest blocks, for which the last meeting 
took place a few weeks ago. Meanwhile for Uruguay, as for several other countries in the region, 
China is the m ain trading partner.  
3.14.   It is also important to recall, with respect to the external sector, that within the production 
process for the leading export products, policies and activities have developed that have enabled 
the implementation of important traceabil ity programmes. These processes have resulted in an 
increase in services and technological content to enhance the value added of the final product.  
3.15.   Thus, Uruguay's exports, comprising a high share of primary products such as soya beans 
and meat and dairy p roducts, have undergone considerable diversification in the course of the 
review period in comparison to a number of other countries in the region.  
3.16.   According to the regional concentration index, which ranges from 0% (high diversification) 
to a 100% (low di versification), Uruguay scores 6% against the regional average of 16%.  
3.17.   At the same time, the volume of exports increased almost 50% between 2011 and the end 
of 2017.  
3.18.   The concerns expressed by the different countries have focused, among other things, on 
intellectual property, technical regulations, services, and measures affecting imports, in which 
connection the consular fee, which increased from 2% to 5%, was mentioned by a number of 
countries. It is therefore important that we receive further details rega rding the consular fee and 
its scope of application, especially in connection with markets displaying certain particularities.  
3.19.   Regarding export support and promotion, and more particularly the drawback system, the 
Secretariat report notes that the exporter  may claim the refunding of the duties and taxes paid on 
the temporary import of inputs after the end product has been exported. It is important that 
Uruguay should fill us in on how this tool works. There are similar concerns regarding import 
licensing an d possible restrictions on the importation of certain goods.  
3.20.   Further information on the investment regime and the exceptions to national treatment in 
that respect would also be appreciated.  
3.21.   And finally, on the positive side we note that Uruguay ratified th e Trade Facilitation 
Agreement nearly two years ago.  
3.22.   In conclusion, let me highlight Uruguay's commitment to the multilateral trading system as 
evidenced by its support for the WTO and the excellent work of Ambassador José Luis Cancela and 
his staff. We no te, in particular, his excellent coordination of the discussions in the informal group 
of MSMEs and his active participation in the facilitator groups on investment and electronic 
commerce.  
3.23.   The Eastern Republic of Uruguay has been an important player in th e multilateral trading 
system not only because it was part of the 1948 Havana Charter and joined the GATT in 1953, but 
also because it was in the Uruguayan town of Punta del Este, with the support of Uruguay, that 
what was possibly the greatest trade negot iation round of all time began in September  1986.  
3.24.   We wish Uruguay every success with its Trade Policy Review, and an excellent stay in 
Geneva for the officials from Montevideo accompanying the Permanent Representation in this 
exercise. Many thanks.  
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
PERU  
4.1.  Peru and Uruguay have long had a close relationship based on regional and cultural 
proximity. Their trade relations are governed by Economic Complementarity Agreement No.  58 
(ACE 58), concluded in the framework of the Latin Ameri can Integration Association (LAIA) 
between the MERCOSUR States Parties and Peru, which has been in force since 2006. ACE  58 
establishes our legal and institutional framework for cooperation and economic integration with the 
ultimate objective of creating a n expanded economic area in order to facilitate the free circulation 
of goods and services between Peru and Uruguay, and with the other MERCOSUR states.  
4.2.  In this context, annual bilateral trade has grown in recent years. In 2017, trade between Peru 
and Urug uay exceeded US$230  million, having increased by 21% over the previous year. Although 
these are impressive figures, there is room for further development of trade, and we should 
pursue our bilateral efforts.  
4.3.  In this context, Peru welcomes the economic grow th and poverty reduction achieved by 
Uruguay during the period under review, its high per capita income, and its wealth distribution 
standards which stand out in the Latin American region. We also welcome the significant progress 
made in the trade sphere, such as the Single Window for Foreign Trade, the electronic payment 
system for duties and taxes, and the authorized economic operator programme. The Secretariat 
report reveals a certain number of challenges relating to taxes, unemployment, and diversificat ion 
of production. We are confident that the policies adopted by Uruguay to foster the production and 
export of higher value added goods through improved productivity and the adoption of new 
technologies, as well as the recently introduced tax reform and t he extensive efforts to liberalize 
the setting up of business, will help to meet these challenges in the near future.  
4.4.  At the WTO, we are working as a team with Uruguay towards the adoption of effective 
disciplines on fisheries subsidies; establishing commi tments on domestic regulation in services; 
supporting the dispute settlement pillar of the WTO, and generally speaking, supporting the 
validity and value of the multilateral trading system. In this connection, we would like to highlight 
the important and a ctive participation of the Permanent Mission of Uruguay in the work of this 
Organization, and in particular the efforts of Ambassador Cancela as Permanent Representative.  
4.5.  For this review, Peru's interest focused on Uruguay's Government procurement system, and 
we raised a few questions regarding access to the system for micro, small and medium -sized 
enterprises, and on the administrative procedures for challenging bids. We thank Uruguay (in 
advance) for their replies, which will be submitted to our authoriti es in the capital for examination.  
4.6.  On behalf of the Peruvian delegation, I wish Uruguay every success in its fifth Trade Policy 
Review.  
MEXICO 
4.7.  I would like to take this opportunity to highlight and acknowledge the very active efforts of 
the Uruguayan Missi on team, headed by Ambassador José Luis Cancela Gómez.  
4.8.  Mexico and Uruguay have in common a deep commitment to a solid bilateral relationship and 
unconditional support for the multilateral trading system, both countries recognizing the 
importance of rules -based international trade for the development of their economies.  
4.9.  At the bilateral level, Uruguay is the only MERCOSUR country with which Mexico has a free 
trade agreement, concluded in 2004, and this has undoubtedly contributed to increasing economic 
cooperation and trade between the two countries. In 2016, the two countries agreed to work 
towards extending and modernizing that agreement in order to increase the opportunities for 
bilateral trade.  
4.10.   Our cooperation  and integration are continuing to grow. Inde ed, during the recent official 
visit of President Tabaré Vázquez to Mexico in November  2017, three legal instruments were 
signed, including a Memorandum of Understanding to foster cooperation activities aimed at WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  promoting and contributing to the developmen t of innovation and entrepreneurial skills in the 
two countries, for example the exchange of good practices with respect to support systems for 
MSMEs.  
4.11.   We are pleased to learn that during the review period, the policies implemented by Uruguay 
contributed to  maintaining steady economic growth and guaranteeing macroeconomic stability , 
enabling the country to confront and resist external shocks and an adverse regional environment.  
4.12.   Uruguay achieved one of the highest per capita GDPs in Latin America (US$16,958),  a more 
equitable distribution of income and a significant reduction in the poverty rate, which fell from 
18.5% to 9.4% in only six years. Moreover, Uruguay succeeded in isolating itself from any 
negative impact relating to the economic performance of its neighbours and natural markets.  
4.13.   Uruguay not only has a free market economy with an export -oriented agricultural sector, 
but also has a well -educated labour force and high levels of social spending. It is no surprise that 
Uruguay  ranks among the highest in the region in terms of various welfare indicators, such as the 
Human Development Index, the Human Opportunity Index and the Index of Economic Freedom.  
4.14.   As regards Uruguay's trade policy, we commend the government's efforts to achieve greater 
integration in international markets. Worth noting is the considerable increase in its exports to 
Asian destinations, which rose from 10.4% of total exports to 21.7% in the space of six  years, 
reducing the country's dependence on its traditional export markets.  
4.15.   We welcom e the measures implemented by Uruguay to facilitate trade, such as the 
electronic goods declaration under the Single Customs Document, the Single Window for 
Foreign  Trade and the electronic payment of taxes. We also point to Uruguay's good example in 
the m ultilateral area, where it has been able to follow international standards for its technical 
regulations and avoid the frequent use of trade defence measures.  
4.16.   We recognize Uruguay's policies to promote innovation, value added and inclusion with due 
attenti on to the challenges facing smaller enterprises. We draw particular attention to the 
Proexport + programme implemented in connection with the National System for Productive 
Transformation and Competitiveness with a view to promoting the MSMEs and supporting  them in 
their internationalization process. Uruguay's commitment to improving conditions for small 
enterprises is also evident at the WTO, where it is leading the efforts of the Informal Working 
Group on MSMEs.  
4.17.   In spite of these commendable achievements, there is still room for improvement in a 
number of areas . 
4.18.   Uruguay should seek further diversification from agricultural commodities to value -added 
products  and increase the share of other types of products and services in its exports.  
4.19.   A number of restrictions remain in the insurance sector: for example, it should be possible 
to cover risks in Uruguayan territory with premiums written abroad.  
4.20.   As regards telecommunications services, it is important that there should be a single law 
regula ting the sector , and that telephony and data transmission services, which are currently 
governed by a monopoly, should be open to private participation.  
4.21.   Finally, the time required to grant a patent needs to be reduced in order to encourage 
innovation and p rotect inventions.  
4.22.   Generally speaking, we would like to commend Uruguay for its inclusive social policies and 
for its economic  openness which, we are convinced, have paved the way for maintaining low levels 
of poverty and creating greater prosperity. We ho pe that these fundamental principles of equity 
and openness will continue to prevail under the "National Development Strategy 2050" which is 
currently being drawn up.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  4.23.   In conclusion, we would  like to thank Uruguay for the replies to my delegation's question s 
and wish it every success in this review; and importantly, in view of current developments, in its 
participation in the next stage of the World Cup.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.24.   On behalf of the European  Union, I would like to express my particular thanks to the 
Urugu ayan Ambassador, José Luis Cancela, for the excellent work he is doing in the WTO Informal 
Work Programme for MSMEs.  
4.25.   The EU would like to start by highlighting some of the positive developments that have 
emerged during the period under review.  
4.26.   Since its la st TPR in 2012, Uruguay has remained committed to its open trade and 
investment regime. In spite of the global financial crisis, Uruguay 's economy has performed well 
with an average annual growth rate of about 3% during 2011 -2017 mainly thanks to domestic 
demand, high international prices for agricultural raw materials, and in 2017, an increase in 
exports.  
4.27.   We also commend Uruguay 's efforts to fight poverty and inequalities, with the result that 
the poverty rate has fallen from 18.5% in 2010 to 9.4% in 2016  and income inequality is one of 
Latin America 's lowest.  
4.28.   Uruguay participates actively in the WTO and played a constructive role in the negotiation of 
the Trade Facilitation Agreement which it ratified in 2016. We welcome Uruguay 's submissions of 
several n otifications (e.g. accepting the protocol amending TRIPS Agreement, as well as the 
preferential service treatment to LDCs) to the WTO and encourage Uruguay to keep up its efforts 
to also notify some pending notifications in relation to the Agreement on Agr iculture. The EU also 
commends Uruguay 's several measures to facilitate trade, among other, new legislation regulating 
electronic payment of duties and taxes.  
4.29.   As regards intellectual property rights and enforcement, we welcome Uruguay 's efforts to 
start re ducing the examination time for patents. We do invite Uruguay however to tackle the 
problem of counterfeiting and piracy (including in the digital context) and encourage it to join 
important WIPO treaties on patents (PCT) and trademarks (Madrid Protocol).  
4.30.   With regard to government procurement, we notice continued reforms by Uruguay with a 
view to streamlining procedures and enhancing transparency. The EU would invite Uruguay to 
apply for joining the WTO Plurilateral Agreement on Government Procurement.  
4.31.   With reference to our bilateral relationship, the EU is Uruguay 's third trading partner, 
accounting for about 14% of Uruguay 's total trade. The EU continues to be the leading foreign 
investor in Uruguay. The 1995 Framework Cooperation Agreement is currently th e basis for 
bilateral cooperation between Uruguay and the EU.  
4.32.   Uruguay is a member of MERCOSUR – an important example of regional economic 
integration in Latin America. The on -going negotiations between the EU and MERCOSUR aim at 
promoting regional trade an d cooperation opportunities.  
4.33.   Alongside these positive developments the EU would also like to mention a few challenges, 
some related to the questions we addressed earlier.  
4.34.   First of all, the EU is concerned about Uruguay 's recent increase of the consular fee. This 
issue was already raised in the context of the previous Trade Policy Review in 2012 and it is 
regrettable that instead of eliminating these taxes, Uruguay has decided to increase them.  
4.35.   Second, the EU has concern s regarding Uruguay 's use of port authority pricing practices 
which discriminate against imported goods. We are also concerned about inspection fees applied 
by the Uruguayan Technological Laboratory (LATU) and the Wine National Institute (INAVI).  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  4.36.   Third, w e would like to refer to Uruguay 's continued import ban on bovine meat and meat 
products from the EU which is not in line with relevant international standards of the World 
Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). We call on Uruguay to fully align with OIE re commendations.  
4.37.   On behalf of the EU, I look forward to a constructive exchange of views during this Trade 
Policy Review and I wish Uruguay 's delegation t he best success – y mucho éxito.  
GUATEMALA  
4.38.   Guatemala and Uruguay share common interests and ideals on se veral fronts in this 
Organization, and we are convinced  that our constructive contributions will enable us to achieve 
our objectives in favour of multilateralism.  
4.39.   In connection with this review, we commend the efforts made by the Government of 
Uruguay to m aintain macroeconomic  stability: it has introduced a policy covering three main 
sectors, namely money and exchange, taxes, and income. Diversification of its exports has set 
Uruguay apart from the other countries of the region over the past few years.  
4.40.   We n ote the country's strong performance in reducing poverty and unemployment, thanks 
to its social policies and to the emergence of new productive activities that have served as new 
sources of employment.  
4.41.   Also worth mentioning during this review is the effort s made by the Government of Uruguay 
in the field of education , which it considers to be one of the keys to the country's economic 
development. Accordingly, it expanded its academic offerings, placing emphasis on specialized 
technical courses and educationa l promotion activities.  
4.42.   In the past few years, Uruguay has been active on the digital transformation front, with a 
Digital Government Plan 2020 that seeks to introduce e -government as a means of facilitating a 
range of different services both at the domest ic and international levels.  
4.43.   With regard to customs , the Government of Uruguay introduced a customs reform in 2010, 
which improved the different administrative procedures by streamlining formalities in order to 
facilitate border trade. An example of this i s the Single Window for Foreign Trade (VUCE).  
4.44.   With respect to MSMEs, under Law No.  16.201 the Government of Uruguay declared the 
promotion, development  and modernization of MSMEs to be a matter of national interest, as one of 
the keys to the country's deve lopment, to the creation of jobs and to the establishment of new 
production chains.  
4.45.   Turning to bilateral relations between Guatemala and Uruguay, Guatemala's main exports to 
Uruguay are pharmaceutical products, sugars and confectionary. Its main imports fr om Uruguay 
include  various products of the chemical industry, pharmaceuticals, articles of wood, detergents 
and soaps, articles of clothing, and perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations.  
4.46.   In addition, it is important to highlight Uruguay's trade in servic es achievements, as a result 
of which the services  sector now accounts for close to half of GDP and employment in the country.  
4.47.   In conclusion, Guatemala hopes that in implementing its economic and trade policies, 
Uruguay will reap further success in terms o f economic growth and development, and trusts that 
our two countries will continue to strengthen their commercial and neighbourly ties.  
4.48.   We thank Uruguay  for replying to our questions and wish its delegation a successful 
conclusion to this exercise.  
BRAZ IL 
4.49.   Brazil has a history  of great friendship and cooperation with Uruguay.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  4.50.   From an economic and commercial standpoint, the process of integration between Brazil and 
Uruguay contributes to the socioeconomic development of both countries and strengthens their 
position on the international scene.  
4.51.   Uruguay is currently enjoying a period of macroeconomic stability and growth which, as 
Ambassador  Amorín noted, has been going on for 15 years. This positive performance of the 
Uruguayan economy is good news for all Lat in America.  
4.52.   The Uruguayan economy continues to stand out as a good example of openness to trade 
and investment.  
4.53.   At the WTO, we value Uruguay's commitment to preserving and strengthening the 
multilateral trading system.  
4.54.   A the regional level, both Uruguay an d Brazil are members of MERCOSUR: together, we 
represent the world's fifth largest economy. Since MERCOSUR was created in 1991, there has been 
a nine -fold increase in trade within the bloc. MERCOSUR accounted for 24 % of Uruguay's exports 
in 2017.  
4.55.   Bilateral  trade between Uruguay and Brazil reached US$3.6  billion in 2017. Some 17% of 
Uruguay's exports go to Brazil, while approximately 20% of Uruguay's imports come from Brazil.  
4.56.   Also worth noting is the importance to both countries of Brazilian direct investmen t in 
Uruguay, particularly in the agricultural export sector, with a stock of almost US$4  billion in 2016.  
4.57.   Uruguay recently assumed the pro tempore  presidency of MERCOSUR. After years of relative 
introspection, our bloc has rediscovered its vocation in open regionalism. Uruguay's leadership will 
undoubtedly help to ensure the continuation of our negotiating agenda.  
4.58.   The Pacific Alliance, the European Union, and the European Free Trade Association as well as 
Canada, India, Lebanon, South Korea and Tunisia are all part of our intensive schedule of 
negotiations. Brazil wishes Uruguay every success in its term as pro tempore  President.  
4.59.   I would like to stre ss that Uruguay will continue to be a strategic partner for Brazil at the 
bilateral, regional and multilateral levels.  
4.60.   Let me conclude by thanking the delegation of Uruguay for its replies to Brazil's questions, 
which will have been forwarded to our capita l for consideration and follow up. We wish Uruguay a 
most productive trade policy review.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.61.   The United States ' trade relationship with Uruguay is strong, positive, and growing. In 2006, 
the United States and Uruguay signed a bilateral investmen t treaty; and in 2007, we signed a 
Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA). In 2008, we negotiated protocols on Trade 
Facilitation and Trade and the Environment. These agreements demonstrate the mutual 
commitment to our bilateral trade and investme nt relationship. We look forward to continuing to 
work together through the U.S. -Uruguay Trade and Investment Council under the TIFA to identify 
additional areas where we can deepen our bilateral trade relationship and strengthen bilateral ties.  
4.62.   Our expand ing bilateral trade relationship is reflected in our bilateral trade flows. In 2017, 
the United States ' two-way goods trade with Uruguay stood at US$2.2 billion, up to 25% from 
2012 levels. Uruguay 's exports to the United States are growing impressively, b oth overall and in 
key product areas such as beef, prepared meat and fish, art and antiques, and wood and wood 
products.  
4.63.   We note that during the period covered by this review, Uruguay achieved greater 
diversification of exports in terms of both products an d markets, with an increased focus on 
markets outside MERCOSUR. Uruguay enjoyed a healthy average annual increase in real GDP 
growth of about 3% during the period covered by the review. Per capita GDP is nearly US$17,000, 
one of the highest in Latin Americ a, with relatively equitable distribution of income. In addition, WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  Uruguay cut the poverty rate by nearly one -half, from 18.5% in 2010 to 9.4% to 2016. The United 
States applauds these notable achievements.  
4.64.   With regard to investment, however, Uruguay 's perf ormance was not quite as favourable, as 
foreign direct investment flows fluctuated significantly during the period under review. There was 
significant inward investment between 2012 and 2014, followed by major capital outflows in 2015 
and 2016. U.S. foreig n direct investment (stock basis) in Uruguay remained virtually unchanged 
from 2012 to 2016 (latest data available) at US$1.5 billion. The United States encourages Uruguay 
to continue to maintain an open trade and investment regime, which, along with Urugu ay's 
political and economic stability and educated workforce, should provide an attractive climate for 
increased foreign investment in the future.  
4.65.   We commend Uruguay for its support for, and ratification of, the WTO Trade Facilitation 
Agreement. We note th at during the period under review, Uruguay introduced a series of measures 
to facilitate trade, including: the electronic payment of duties and taxes, a digital single customs 
document, the foreign trade single window, automated control of port access to t he Port of 
Montevideo, the sea and air electronic manifest, and the Authorized Economic Operator 
Programme. These are all very welcome steps to facilitate trade. At the same time, however, we 
must mention two areas of concern. Uruguay increased the consula r fee on imports from 2 to 5% 
effective on 1 January 2017. As Uruguay is aware, during its 2012 Trade Policy Review, the United 
States raised concerns about the 2% consular fee on imports. That this fee has now been 
increased to 5% only heightens our conce rns. In addition, Uruguay has imposed progressively 
stricter limits on the number of allowable duty -free express shipments valued at US$200 or less 
per person, per year. We encourage Uruguay to eliminate these trade -restrictive measures.  
4.66.   In addition to these issues, we submitted written questions on topics such as food labelling 
regulations, export promotion measures, and the protection and enforcement of intellectual 
property rights. We thank Uruguay for its replies, which we look forward to reviewing.  
4.67.   In closing, the United States again wants to acknowledge Uruguay 's important and positive 
contributions to this institution. We are grateful to have Uruguay as a highly engaged and 
good-humoured  next-door neighbour in most of our meetings here at the WTO. We look forward to 
our continued close cooperation with Uruguay in the future, both bilaterally and in the WTO.  
CHINA  
4.68.   We are pleased to see that Uruguay has experienced 15 years of continuous and inclusive 
economic growth, which is the lo ngest expansion in  its history.  This remarkable progress was 
achieved through the efforts made through economic coordination of monetary, fiscal and incomes 
policies, together with structural reform, innovation, diversification of exports and attracting 
foreign direct inves tment. We believe that Uruguay will tackle the challenges ahead and enable its 
economic growth to continue in a long -run, which will be more evenly spread, and aim at creating 
more jobs and achieving sustainable development.  
4.69.   International trade is extremel y important for Uruguay, which depends heavily on foreign 
trade for its growth and development, as noted by the Government Repo rt and the Secretariat 
Report. Uruguay exports of goods and services grew at an annual rate  of 10% between 2003 and 
2017. During the period under review, Uruguay introduced a range of measures to facilitate trade, 
such as electronic government, customs reform and single window for foreign trade.  
4.70.   Multilaterally, Uruguay has long been a strong supporter of the multilateralism, as it j oined 
the GATT at an early stage in 1953 and was a founding member  of the WTO.  Uruguay has been 
making contribution to this Organization by way of accepting the TRIPS Amendment, Trade 
Facilitation Agreement and signing at MC11 the Joint Statements on E -commerce, inve stment 
facilitation and MSMEs. Uruguay is serv ing as coordinator on MSMEs and  member of Friends of 
Investment Facilitation for Development (FIFD) to promo te the discussion respectively.  Uruguay 
also plays an active role in regional economic coop eration such as in MERCOSUR.  
4.71.   Recent years have seen a rapid growth in our bilateral trade. China is Uruguay 's largest 
trading partner, and biggest export market for beef, paper pulp, so y beans and wool from 
Uruguay. According to China 's statistics, the bil ateral trade in goods reached US$ 4.8 billion in WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  2017, with China 's exports to Uruguay st anding at US$ 2.15 billion, imports from Uruguay totalling  
US$2.65 billion. China 's exports to Uruguay are mainly electronics and machinery, clothing, 
automobiles and fu rniture.  
4.72.   By 2016, Ch ina has invested in Uruguay US$ 226 million in total, mostly in the areas of 
automobile assembling, animal  husbandry and transportation. In 2017, Uruguay has invested in 
China 22 projects at value of US$ 50.65 million, mainly in the areas  of textiles and automobile 
parts.  
4.73.   To better understand the latest status of the Uruguay 's trade policy, we have submitted 
some written questions in areas of import tariffs, customs administration, visa, MERCOSUR and 
investment. We appreciate the replies p rovided by Uruguay to our questions which we would study 
carefully.  
4.74.   This year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relati ons between 
China and Uruguay. The bilateral cooperation has yielded fruitful results including establishing 
China-Uruguay strategic partnership, jointly promoting cooperation through the Belt and Road 
Initiative, which would open up great potential for development in Uruguay and Latin America in 
areas such as trade, agriculture, fishery, infrastructure and invest ment.  
4.75.   In the meantime, both sides are exploring works towards free trade agreement between 
China and Uruguay and MERCOSUR countries.  We welcome Uruguay enterprises to participate in 
the first China International Import Expo which will be held in Shanghai this November.  
4.76.   Currently, the WTO is facing systemic challenges that have to be dealt with by the entire 
membership. China would join  arms with Uruguay and other Members to preserve the fundamental 
principles of this Organization, resisting unilateralism and protectionism, and collectively safeguard 
the rules -based multilateral trading system.  
4.77.   In conclusion, I wish this Review a complet e success.  
EL SALVADOR  
4.78.   It is an honour for El Salvador to participate in this transparency exercise. In these times of 
global uncertainty in which the validity and relevance of the multilateral trading system is 
constantly being called into question, this exercise helps to give Members a broad vision and deep 
knowledge of the trade and trade -related policies of our trading partners.  
4.79.   Turning to the matter before us, on the economic front I wish to highlight Uruguay's 
excellent macroeconomic performance since  its fourth trade policy review in 2012, at which I had 
the honour of being discussant.  
4.80.   Uruguay is a success story in Latin America, with a per capita GDP that is one of the highest 
in the region: in 2017 it reached approximately US$17,000, with a relative ly equitable income 
distribution.  
4.81.   Moreover, the poverty rate has decreased in recent years, from 18.5% in 2010 to 9.4% in 
2016.  
4.82.   Uruguay deserves praise for its open trade and investment regimes, evidenced by the 
limited use of border restrictions and non -tariff measures and the granting of national treatment to 
foreign investors.  
4.83.   As noted in the Secretariat report, between 2011 and 2017 Uruguay experienced economic 
growth in line with its potential, with an average annual real GDP increase of about 3%.  
4.84.   Between 2011 and 2014, GDP growth was backed by strong domestic demand and a 
favourable external environment, including high international prices for agricultural raw materials.  
4.85.   Uruguay is a major global exporter of food and agricultural raw materials. Its exp orts 
continue to consist mainly of commodities, chiefly food, wood and agricultural raw materials. WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  Bovine meat and oilseeds remained the leading export products, accounting for 21.4% and 15.6% 
of the 2017 total, respectively.  
4.86.   In contrast to previous period s, China has overtaken the MERCOSUR countries as the 
leading destination for Uruguay's exports, absorbing 18.8% of the total compared to Brazil's 
16.5%. However, although their share was reduced, the MERCOSUR countries together still 
accounted for 23.7% of  the total in 2017.  
4.87.   Uruguay believes that achieving successful integration in international markets calls for 
increased competitiveness of its economy, which is why it has sought to transform its production 
system, promoting innovative activities with high er levels of value added and greater domestic 
technological content.  
4.88.   At the same time, Uruguay introduced a series of measures to facilitate trade. These 
include: electronic payment of duties and taxes; use of the digital Single Customs Document 
(DUA); int roduction of the Foreign Trade Single Window (VUCE); automated control of port access 
to the Port of Montevideo; the sea and air electronic manifest; and the Authorized Economic 
Operator (AEO) programme.  
4.89.   In the multilateral sphere, Uruguay continues to par ticipate actively in the regular work of 
the various WTO bodies. As a country in which the agricultural sector is of major importance, 
Uruguay advocates the full integration of agriculture in the rules governing multilateral trade.  
4.90.   Moreover, Uruguay is lea ding the discussions in areas currently on the WTO agenda, for 
example the dialogue on MSMEs, and participates in discussions on other topics, such as 
investment facilitation, gender issues, and e -commerce.  
4.91.   It remains for me to wish Uruguay every success i n this trade policy exercise.  
4.92.   We thank Uruguay for its replies to our questions, which we shall send to our capital for 
consideration.  
CHILE  
4.93.   I would like to convey special greetings to Ambassador José Luís Cancela Gómez, whose 
long multilateral career brou ght us together at the United Nations in New York, and who is now 
chairing the MSME Group – a role which my country particularly values in view of the economic 
and social importance of the small and medium sized enterprises in our countries. We are 
confide nt that under Uruguay's leadership and with Ambassador Cancela at the helm, the 
challenges limiting the growth and contribution of the MSMEs to world trade will be given the 
attention they deserve.  
4.94.   At the same time, I would like to thank the team from the Uruguayan Mission, with whom 
we work closely in many areas within this Organization.  
4.95.   We appreciate the work done both by the Secretariat and by the Government of Uruguay for 
this review, as well as the analyses and background information contained in the r eports, and we 
congratulate the Ecuadorian Ambassador, Mr  Diego Aulestia, for his contribution as Discussant.  
4.96.   Let me begin by emphasizing the importance of trade policy reviews as one of the pillars of 
multilateralism and of this Organization. I therefore commend Uruguay for its transparency in this 
process and its longstanding contribution to this institution, a contribution that dates back to the 
early days of the GATT system and is evident in many ways, not the least in the fact that Uruguay 
hosted the c onference that launched the Uruguay Round in 1986.  
4.97.   In this review, Chile submitted ten  questions, and would like to thank Uruguay for the 
replies it has received, which will be analysed by our people in Santiago with a view to further 
strengthening the goo d economic relations between our two countries founded on our common 
support for a revitalized rules based a multilateral trading system centred around the WTO.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  4.98.   Chile shares close bonds of friendship and cooperation with Uruguay that date back more 
than 20 0 years. Not only are the two countries located in the same geographical area, the 
"Southern Cone", but because their levels of development are comparable and they have similar 
visions of the future they also share common challenges. Similarly, we have muc h in common 
when it comes to implementing public policies aimed at achieving maximum political and economic 
stability, and ultimately, greater well -being for our peoples on the basis of inclusive development 
and a participatory democracy. Traditionally, th ere has been agreement and understanding with 
Uruguay on different international, regional and subregional issues, and this has led to constant 
mutual support. A good example: Chile encourages convergence between the Pacific Alliance and 
MERCOSUR as a mean s of promoting Latin American Integration, a position which receives 
valuable support from Uruguay, which is an observer in the Pacific Alliance and current coordinator 
and full member of MERCOSUR.  
4.99.   Our bilateral relations are currently governed by the Stra tegic Partnership Agreement signed 
in July  2008, which helps to identify the different mechanisms available for political dialogue and 
the specific themes to be developed in the economic and trade area as well as in fields such as 
technical, cultural and s cientific cooperation, social development, gender issues, environment, 
energy, innovation, Antarctic affairs and human rights.  
4.100.   As regards trade, Chile considers Uruguay to be a fundamental partner of considerable 
importance whose vision it shares. Our trad e relations with Uruguay are solidly anchored in 
Economic Complementarity Agreement No. 35 (Chile MERCOSUR), concluded in the context of the 
Treaty of Montevideo 1980 and in force since 1996, which has enabled us to build a productive 
commercial relationsh ip between the two countries. This is clearly illustrated by the value of 
Chilean investment in Uruguay which, at US$4.5 billion, places the country among the top 
ten destinations for Chilean capital investment in the world.  
4.101.   The excellent relationship betw een the two countries is also reflected in the signature of 
the Free Trade Agreement between them in 2016, which comprises 20 chapters and seeks to bring 
together and enhance areas that have already been negotiated under ACE 35 while incorporating 
and regu lating various new topics such as e commerce, cross border trade in services, gender 
issues and cooperation. Just as important are the various agreements and conventions concluded 
between the two countries, for instance the Government Procurement Agreement  (in force since 
January  2013), the Bilateral Investment Agreement (in force since March  2012), the 
Tax Information Exchange Agreement (in force since February  2017) and the Convention on the 
Avoidance of Double Taxation of Income and Property (currently b eing processed in Chile).  
4.102.   At the WTO, Chile agrees with Uruguay on the importance of maintaining a transparent, 
open and rules based multilateral system.  
4.103.   We share many of Uruguay's positions on the various subjects discussed at the WTO, 
including agricultu re, trade in services, e commerce, investment facilitation and the need for a 
fully operational dispute settlement system. Both countries are members of the Cairns group and 
the informal Friends of Fish (FOF) group, we both seek a balanced outcome for the agricultural 
reform programme, especially in the domestic support, market access and export competition 
pillars, and we share the same objectives as regards fisheries subsidies.  
4.104.   We believe that our good relations with Uruguay are a clear reflection of our commitment 
and the importance we attach to integration in international markets, and of the benefits of free 
trade for our countries.  
4.105.   Chile values Uruguay's efforts to maintain a stable economy, open trade, and an 
environment conducive to investment as des cribed in the Secretariat report. We commend 
Uruguay for its dynamism in the communications subsector, in financial intermediation and 
commerce, restaurants and hotels.  
4.106.   We are also encouraged by Uruguay's sustained economic growth and the changes that 
have led to greater financial integration and increased competitiveness of its economy. Its strategy 
focuses on transformation of the country's production system, promoting innovative activities with 
higher levels of value added and greater domestic technologi cal content. A new National System WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  for Productive Transformation and Competitiveness was established with this aim in mind, and has 
worked successfully to that end.  
4.107.   Finally, we would like to encourage Uruguay to continue developing its trade policy 
objecti ves, progressively improving the competitiveness of its economy by encouraging innovation 
and increasing the value added of its products, and hope that it will maintain its excellent results 
in the future.  
4.108.   We wish Uruguay every success in this fifth Trade Policy Review.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.109.   Australia commends Uruguay for its record fifteen years of continuous economic growth, 
which demonstrates the benefits of its outward -looking, flexible economy and its focus on 
increasing global competitiveness.  
4.110.   Uruguay 's commitmen t to international trade is clear, and we applaud Uruguay for its 
strong support for the WTO and its active engagement across the n egotiating and regular agenda.  
4.111.   Australia has enjoyed working closely with Uruguay  on WTO issues over many years.  In 
particula r, in the Cairns Group, of which Uruguay was a founding Member. Uruguay has played an 
active and supportive role in this Group over the last 32 years, and we look forward to continue 
working with Uruguay t o promote agricultural liberaliz ation and reform in  the WTO.  
4.112.   Uruguay is also a key player in the fisheries subsidies negotiations, as part of the "6-Latin" 
group; has taken a leadership role in chairing the Informal Working Group on MSMEs; and is an 
active participant in other MC11 Joint Statement Initiati ves, including on electronic commerce, 
services domestic regulation, investment facilitation for development, and women 's economic 
empowerment.  
4.113.   Australia commends Uruguay for its exemplary track record on WTO notifications, 
particularly on agriculture and TBT. 
4.114.   We also welcome actions taken by Uruguay to facilitate trade, including ratifying the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement in 2016, and implementing a series of domestic measures such as 
electronic payment of duties, a digital customs document, a single -windo w for foreign trade, and 
an Authorize d Economic Operator programme. These are all worthy initiatives, which will 
encourage further trade by simplifying procedures at the border.  
4.115.   We encourage Uruguay to consider further efforts to liberalise its trading reg ime, includin g 
through unilateral measures. We note for example that Uruguay 's average tariff on agricultural 
goods is slightly higher than for manufactured goods, notwithstanding its comparative advantage 
in this sector.  
4.116.   Uruguay has an open investment reg ime, with pro -competition policies, a well -regulated 
and open financial system and few restrictions on foreign participation in the Government 
Procurement market.  We encourage Uruguay to consider the efficiency and cost benefits of 
removing preferences fo r local providers and local content requirements in government 
procurement.  
4.117.   Australia is committed to deepening our trade and investment relationship with Uruguay 
with two -way trade of A$64 millio n last year.  Australian investment into Uruguay has more tha n 
doubled in recent years to A$51 million, to take advantage of opportunities in agribusiness, water 
management, oil and gas, infrastructure, and fintech, among others.  
4.118.   Both Australia and Uruguay participate in the CER -Mercosur Dialogue, which provides a 
mechanism for strengthening cooperation on global trade policy issues and promoting inter -
regional trade and investment.  
4.119.   Finally, we look forward to reviewing the responses to Members ' questions, including those 
submitted by Australia, and wish Uruguay a ve ry successful Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  COSTA  RICA 
4.120.   Costa Rica and Uruguay have much in common. Both are small countries, historically 
focusing on agricultural exports, and highly developed from an institutional and democratic point 
of view. Their public educati onal and health policies are oriented towards the well -being of their 
respective populations, and the two countries are consistently close in international development 
rankings. Both countries also attach considerable importance to foreign trade as a sourc e of 
opportunity and a chance to exchange knowledge.  
4.121.   Our development strategies are so similar that our public policy makers always use 
Uruguay as a point of reference and comparison – which should come as no surprise, considering 
that Uruguay's per capita  GDP is one of the highest in Latin America, its poverty rate has fallen by 
half in six years, and it has one of the lowest levels of social inequality in our region.  
4.122.   Uruguay is a model member of the multilateral trading system: it has always been 
construc tive in its approach and open to dialogue. As a founding member of the WTO and of the 
Cairns Group, Uruguay has played a leading role in shaping the system and continues to be a key 
player in the negotiations to reform agriculture trade at the WTO.  
4.123.   Worth n oting in recent years is Uruguay's notification of the acceptance of the 
Protocol  Amending the TRIPS Agreement, its granting of preferential treatment for services and 
service suppliers of least developed countries, and its ratification of the Trade Facili tation 
Agreement in August 2016. At the same time, Uruguay has shown openness in addressing new 
issues, and together with Costa Rica and other Members, it has led the dialogue on the 
opportunities of e commerce for development. And because today is interna tional MSME day, we 
would like to draw attention to Uruguay's leadership as coordinator of the Group of Friends of 
MSMEs at the WTO.  
4.124.   On the economic and trade front, during the review period Uruguay maintained a steady 
real GDP growth rate of about 3%, in which the share of services in current prices increased to 
61.3% of the total in 2017. However, the most dynamic sectors were the least labour intensive 
ones, and the unemployment rate rose from 6.3% in 2011 to 8.1% in the third quarter of 2017. 
Like Costa  Rica, Uruguay is facing a structural transformation of its economy and is having to 
rethink its strategies for education and integration in the new global economy. There is plenty of 
potential in this respect: telecommunications is one of the subsectors t hat has received the 
greatest impetus in recent years, and Uruguay could explore the possibility of joining the 
Information Technology Agreement (ITA) as a springboard for the creation of synergies in the 
service innovation area.  
4.125.   At the same time, though agriculture's share in GDP decreased during the review period 
from 8.7% in 2011 to 5.9% in 2016, the sector remains a key to Uruguay's economic 
development, accounting for two thirds of total exports in 2017. However, strategies to diversify 
production wil l require particular attention, since exports are essentially limited to meat, soya 
beans, dairy products and cereals, making the country more vulnerable to unfavourable 
developments in the international prices of those products.  
4.126.   Costa Rica has an ongoing interest in Uruguay's trade policies, particularly in the 
development of its policies to diversify production, attract investment and increase regional 
integration as a member of MERCOSUR. We shall follow with interest the completion of Uruguay's 
National Development Strategy 2050 and the alignment of its agricultural policy with its 
sustainable development objectives.  
4.127.   We also welcome the successful implementation of schemes for the universalization of 
access to the financial system through policies such as  the Financial Inclusion Programme. We take 
a positive view of Uruguay's energy independence policy, involving an increase in private 
participation in the generation of electricity with the development of renewable sources such as 
windfarms. Finally, we we lcome the measures taken to facilitate trade, such as electronic payment 
of duties and taxes; use of the digital Single Customs Document (DUA); and the introduction of 
the Foreign Trade Single Window (VUCE), to name but a few.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  4.128.   Costa Rica raised questions on policies relating to e -government, customs procedures, 
government procurement, patents, geographical indications, and the regulatory framework for the 
services sector, and we thank Uruguay for the replies provided during this review. Let me conclude 
by wishing Uruguay every success in this exercise.  
JAPAN  
4.129.   Needless to say, Japan and Uruguay have been important partners for years, both 
economically and politically. Japan will make continuous efforts to maintain and further develop 
the strong ties between u s. 
4.130.   We are pleased to see that Uruguay has experienced continuous economic growth during 
the review period. Accordi ng to the Secretariat reports, f rom 2011 to 2014, the country 's average 
annual increase in real GDP was about 4% owing to strong domestic dema nd as well as a benign 
external environment, characterized by high international prices for agricultural raw materials. 
Despite the slight decline of GDP growth in 2015 and 2016, GDP growth began to recover largely 
because of the increase in exports of bot h goods (soya, meat, rice) and services (tourism) in 2017. 
Moreover, the IMF predicts that the Uruguayan economy is expected to see growth of about 3% in 
real GDP in 2018, thanks to a positive external environment, supported by stronger domestic 
demand. Ja pan expects Uruguay to continue its efforts to promote future economic growth.  
4.131.   Now, let me turn to Uruguay 's trade policies. Japan appreciates Uruguay 's active 
participation in the WTO negotiations. We note that in July 2014 Uruguay notified the WTO of bot h 
its acceptance of the Protocol Amending the Agreement on Trade -Related Aspects of Intellectual 
Property Rights (TRIPS) and its Category A commitments under the Trade Facilitation Agreement. 
Japan also notes that in August 2016 Uruguay ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement. In 
addition to that, Uruguay reasserted the importance of the rule -based multilateral trading system 
at MC11. Japan positively evaluates Uruguay for its efforts, including its contributions to 
strengthening the multilateral trading system as a founding member of the WTO. On the other 
hand, the report by the Secretariat says that Uruguay is not party to the Information and 
Technology Agreement. We encourage Uruguay to participate in the ITA to enable further trade 
liberalization.  
4.132.   With regard to customs procedures, we are pleased to note that Uruguay introduced 
various measures toward simplifying its customs clearance procedures. In Uruguay, customs 
declarations can be lodged electronically. In 2012, the digital Single Customs Document (DUA) for 
customs clearance was rolled out in all customs offices. Since 2012, Uruguayan customs offices 
have been using this procedure for the electronic payment of duties and taxes. Moreover, the 
National Customs Directorate (DNA) has implemented a progr amme for the certification of AEOs 
since 2014. The information provided by the authorities indicates that Uruguay had about 50 
certified AEOs as of March 2018. We commend these efforts on the part of Uruguay to promote 
trade facilitation, which we believe will accelerate the process of involving SMEs in global value 
chains.  
4.133.   With regard to investment, we are glad to see that Uruguay has an open investment 
environment that attracts foreign investors. Uruguay has actively invited investment by 
establishing an investment law and creating an investment -friendly domestic environment. Thanks 
to Uruguay 's efforts in this area, the bilateral investment agreement between Uruguay and Japan 
came into effect in April 2017. Japan hopes that this agreement will promote an overall 
improvement in our economic relations with greater mutual investment and interaction of people 
from both countries.  
4.134.   In conclusion, Japan looks forward to continuing  close cooperation between our two 
countries and wishes Uruguay a successful and pro ductive TPR.  
DOMINICAN  REPUBLIC   
4.135.   The Dominican Republic has shared close ties of friendship with Uruguay for over 70 years, 
recently enhanced by the visit in May this year of Foreign Minister Miguel Vargas, to be followed by 
a visit from the Uruguayan Fore ign Minister, Mr  Rodolfo Nin Novoa, in the second half of this year. 
During last May's visit, the two Foreign Ministers agreed on a new framework for the conclusion of WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  an agreement to abolish tourist and business visas, a step which would unquestionably he lp to 
promote trade flows between the two countries.  
4.136.   On the occasion of this fifth Trade Policy Review, The Dominican Republic would like to 
congratulate Uruguay for its successful economic performance during the review period, in which 
the country's real GDP growth rate averaged 3% annually. We also note with satisfaction that 
Uruguay's per capita GDP is one of the highest in Latin America (approximately US$17,000 in 
2017), and its income distribution is relatively equitable. At the same time, the poverty rate has 
fallen in recent years, from 18.5% in 2010 to 9.4% in 2016. Thus, Uruguay seems to have 
overcome the challenge facing most of the countries in the region, to achieve economic growth 
that goes hand in hand with an equitable distribution of wealth i n all segments of society, coupled 
with a significant reduction in poverty.  
4.137.   We note with interest that Uruguay has an open investment regime and accords national 
treatment to foreign investment, with very few exceptions. We also welcome the fact that Urugu ay 
introduced a series of measures to facilitate trade, for example electronic payment of duties and 
taxes; use of the digital Single Customs Document (DUA); introduction of the Foreign Trade Single 
Window (VUCE); automated control of port access to the Po rt of Montevideo; the sea and air 
electronic manifest; and the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme.  
4.138.   We commend Uruguay for maintaining what is clearly an open trade regime and applying 
low tariffs, with an average applied MFN duty of 9.4% in 2017,  the same as in 2011. Moreover, the 
number of products subject to prohibition decreased during the review period from 652 in 2012 to 
323 in 2017. We also note with satisfaction that Uruguay uses trade defence measures sparingly.  
4.139.   At the same time, during th e review period Uruguay adopted measures to enhance its 
intellectual property regime and adapt it to its international commitments, for example by ratifying 
the Marrakesh Treaty in 2014.  
4.140.   Finally, the Dominican Republic asked Uruguay a number of questions c oncerning, among 
other things, measures to promote exports and investment, measures to boost the 
competitiveness of MSMEs, and the Customs Code, and we are grateful for the replies received, 
which we shall study with care. We can only urge Uruguay to conti nue on the path of progress and 
wish it every success in this fifth Trade Policy Review and for the future.  
NEW  ZEALAND  
4.141.   New Zealand welcomes this opportunity to engage with Urug uay on the occasion of its 5th 
Trade Policy R eview.  
4.142.   Uruguay is a fellow Cairns  Group member and long -standing trading partner for 
New Zealand, and an ally in promoting ongoing reforms - particularly in the field of agriculture. 
New Zealand also appreciates Uruguay 's efforts as a fellow Friend of Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform, 
and signa tory of the MC11 Statement on FFSR in 2017 and the FFSR Communique in 2010.  
4.143.   Trade and investment flows between our economies are growing. New Zealand is also 
increasing its broader economic relationship with MERCOSUR countries. Since the period of the last 
review, total trade between Uruguay and New Zealand has increased by 15%, a nd now sits at 
around NZ$20.5 million.  
4.144.   New Zealand congratulates Uruguay 's efforts to diversify its export markets and products. 
In New Zealand 's experience diversification and liberalisation improves economic resilience and 
fosters business innovation, e fficiency, a nd nimbleness across sectors. Over the period since 
Uruguay 's previous TPR New Zealand has been working increasingly closely with Uruguay with 
respect to issues impacting on trade in wine – we were happy to welcome Uruguay 's recent 
accession to  the World Wine Trade Group.  
4.145.   Like New Zealand, agriculture is of primary importance to Uruguay 's economy and 
Uruguay 's policy settings are exemplary in terms of minimising policy distortions to production and 
trade. New Zealand does have concerns, therefor e, about the application of price controls in the 
dairy sector and we believe that removing these would support efficiency and innovation.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  4.146.   New Zealand also welcomes ongoing efforts for multilateral and regional trade integration 
by Uruguay. Our own experie nce with regional economic integration has been positive. New 
Zealand encourages Uruguay to continue to pursue its efforts, as a founding member of 
MERCOSUR, to liberalise trade and expand trade rel ations regionally and globally.  We look forward 
to working  with Uruguay as it takes over the Pro Tempore Presidency of MERCOSUR for the second 
half of 2018.  
4.147.   New Zealand appreciates Uruguay 's continued commitment to the multilateral trading 
system, and we welcome the positive steps that Uruguay has taken in the ti me since its last TPR.  
CANADA  
4.148.   Allow me to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of the Eastern Republic of Uruguay. 
Canada is pleased to particip ate in this third Trade Policy R eview of Uruguay as we follow with 
interest the country 's progress in the development and implementation of economic and legislative 
reforms.  
4.149.   I would like to begin by congratulating Uruguay for its strong overall economic 
performance in recent years, as outlined in reports from the International Monetary Fund, the 
World Bank, as  well as those of the Secretariat and Uruguay itself. Uruguay 's strong institutions 
and economic stability are widely recognized. The State ranks 94 out of 190 countries in the most 
recent World Bank 's Ease of Doing Business survey, and places 23 out of 18 0 in the Transparency 
International 's Corruption Perceptions Index. This data corroborates the overall favourable 
economic and business environment in Uruguay.  
4.150.   Since its last Trade Policy R eview in 2012, Uruguay has much of which to be proud. As 
highlighte d by the World Bank and the Secretariat r eport, poverty diminished to 9.4 %, while 
extreme poverty has practically disappeared with only 0.2 % in 2016. According to the IMF and the 
WTO, GDP growth was estimated at 3 % and is exactly in line with long -term pre dictions. Due to a 
relatively tight monetary policy stance and an appreciating exchange rate, inflation was also 
maintained within the target  range. In 2017, the Uruguayan G overnment reduced its fiscal deficit 
and seeks to reduce it even more by 2019.  
4.151.   Uruguay has long been a champion for open, rules -based and predictable international 
trade. As mentioned in the Secretariat report, Uruguay, together with other MERCOSUR members, 
signed several trade agreements during the review period which underscores this openness to 
international trade. In this light, Canada welcomes our recently launched bilateral negotiations 
with MERCOSUR.  
4.152.   We also applaud the continuous and proactive participation of Uruguay in the WTO, 
underlining its commitment to the multilateral tr ading system. In this regard, we note positively 
that Uruguay has signed the three joint initiatives – MSMEs, investment facil itation and 
e-commerce – announced on the margins of MC11. In particular, we appreciate Uruguay 's 
important leadership in the ongo ing discussions towards helping MSMEs better integrate into 
international trade.  
4.153.   As you know, Canada actively supports progressive elements, such as women 's economic 
empowerment, in the context of international trade. Canada would therefore like to congrat ulate 
Uruguay for being the first country, with Chile, to have introduced a trade and gender chapter in a 
free trade agreement. The Chile -Uruguay chapter served as a model for the trade and gender 
chapter we negotiated during the modernization of our FTA w ith Chile last year. We are also 
grateful for Uruguay 's support for the Buenos Aires Declaration on Trade and Women 's Economic 
Empowerment and look forward to working with Uruguay and other WTO members to fully 
implement the declaration.  
4.154.   While Uruguay has continued during the review period to consolidate a series of economic 
reforms that have laid the foundations for economic development, there are areas of Uruguay 's 
trade and economic policies where Canada believes fur ther improvements can be made. As 
emph asized by the IMF, ongoing fiscal and monetary prudence should be combined with a greater 
focus on structural reforms in order to provide the conditions for sustained robust and inclusive WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  growth. Reforms to improve the business climate and investment incen tives with a view to 
enhancing competitiveness and strengthening resilience would also be important.  
4.155.   Canada notes that Uruguay continues to face difficulties with unemployment which has 
continued to grow, reaching a level of 8.1 per cent in the third quar ter of 2017, as highlighted in 
the Secretariat 's report. Furthermore, Canadian businesses continue to raise concerns with regard 
to Uruguay 's labour market. As underscored by the World Economic Forum 's Global 
Competitiveness Index 2017 -2018, Uruguay was ranked 121 out of 137 countries on Labour 
Market Efficiency showing the need to strengthen labour relations with the business s ector. We 
remain hopeful that these challenges will be successfully addressed in the near term.  
4.156.   In the area of international inte gration, we fully support efforts to pursue the negotiation of 
trade agreements with countries of importance to Uruguay, to strengthen the agreements already 
concluded by Uruguay including in the framework of Mercosur and to identify new trade partners 
to expand the country 's range of exports and imports. Such agreements would help improve 
international market access for Uruguayan goods and services to the overall benefit to the country.  
4.157.   Allow me to conclude by applauding the overall positive results achie ved since the last 
review in 2012 and to encourage Uruguay to continue following the overall positive trajectory it is 
on. In this regard, we are confident that the exchanges of views during this review will provide 
useful and constructive suggestions for Uruguay – we wi sh our colleagues a successful Trade Policy 
Review.  
ARGENTINA  
4.158.   Argentina is pleased to note that during the review period, Uruguay's real GDP grew at an 
average annual rate of 3%. It is gratifying to see that its per capita GDP is one of the highest in 
Latin America, and its wealth distribution relatively equitable. Also worth noting is the significant 
reduction in the poverty rate achieved over the past few years.  
4.159.   Another source of gratification is Uruguay's open investment regime and the ver y few 
exceptions to national treatment of investment. Its financial system and telecommunications 
services are also open . 
4.160.   We commend Uruguay for the trade facilitation measures it introduced during the review 
period, such as electronic payment of duties an d taxes; the digital Single Customs Document; the 
Foreign Trade Single Window (VUCE); automated control of port access to the Port of Montevideo; 
the sea and air electronic manifest; and the Authorized Economic Operator programme.  
4.161.   In the same vein, we welc ome Uruguay's level of ambition under the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement, as reflected in its inclusion of all the provisions of Section I among the Category  A 
commitments, with only one exception.  
4.162.   We commend Uruguay for its constructive and positive role it  has played in the 
negotiations on fisheries subsidies in seeking to achieve a significant result in conformity with the 
Buenos  Aires Ministerial Decision on the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14.6.  
4.163.   Uruguay is one of Argentina's most import ant political and trading partners. Bilateral 
relations are conducted in the framework of MERCOSUR, which for both countries is the linchpin of 
our international economic integration. Argentina and Uruguay recently decided to revive the 
Bilateral Trade Com mission, a forum for the discussion of relevant bilateral economic issues.  
4.164.   As part of this trade policy review we submitted questions relating to Uruguay's 
programmes to promote the integration of its MSMEs in global value chains, to its experience in 
implementing the VUCE, to its government procurement regime, to the promotion of exports and 
to its mechanisms for financing agricultural production. We are grateful for the responses 
provided, which will be duly examined by our authorities.  
4.165.   Lastly, while reit erating our appreciation of this renewed opportunity to exchange 
information and comments on Uruguay's trade policies and practices, we would like to draw WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  attention once again to the importance of this exercise in transparency from every point of view, 
and to wish the Uruguayan authorities a successful conclusion to this trade policy review.  
ECUADOR  
4.166.   Ecuador extends a warm greeting to Uruguay and thanks it for its cooperative efforts in 
these proceedings which help to uphold the principle of transparency in this Organization.  
4.167.   We welcome the distinguished delegation of Uruguay, headed by Ambassador Amorín, and 
thank the Secretariat and the Government of Uruguay for their respective reports.  
4.168.   We also note the intensive and efficient work of the Uruguayan Mission  to the WTO, led by 
Ambassador José Luis Cancela.  
4.169.   Ecuador has a major interest in participating in this review given that Uruguay is a country 
with which we have concluded a trade agreement under the LAIA, and a number of products from 
the two countries en joy tariff -free access.  
4.170.   The trade balance between Ecuador and Uruguay showed a surplus for Uruguay of 
US$26  million in 2017.  
4.171.   That same year, Ecuador's exports to Uruguay reached US$26  million, a growth of 6% 
compared to 2016. Imports totalled US$52 million.  
4.172.   Ecuador's main exports to the Uruguayan market are bananas, tuna, shrimp, medicines 
and roses.  
4.173.   The main goods entering Ecuador from Uruguay are medicines, food preparations, 
substances for the preparation of beverages, industrial furnaces and i nsecticides.  
4.174.   Turning to the Secretariat report for this trade policy review, I would like to underscore the 
active and important role played by Uruguay in the regional context.  
4.175.   We welcome Uruguay's efforts to improve its macroeconomic indicators: for a num ber of 
years now, it has succeeded in maintaining a stable economy and protecting it from external 
shocks.  
4.176.   Uruguay has made noteworthy efforts in the services sector, firstly with the recording of 
information for traceability purposes, and secondly with th e development of new subsectors such 
as information technologies, which is the services subsector that has grown the most in recent 
years.  
4.177.   Ecuador emphasizes the importance of these exercises in transparency and the insight into 
public policy afforded by t rade policy reviews at the WTO.  
4.178.   In conclusion, we wish to convey our thanks to the delegation of Uruguay for their replies 
to the questions we submitted on certain specific aspects of its trade policy, which revolve around 
the consular fee and drawback. These details will provide valuable inputs for strengthening 
bilateral relations between the two countries.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.179.   Since the establishment of bilateral relations in 1964, Korea and Uruguay have maintained 
a close and sound economic partnership. In 2011, bilateral trade reached a level of US$200 million 
for the first time and has subsequently been in excess of this figure every year excluding 2016. In 
particular, two -way trade volume between our two countries amounts to US$506 million, which is 
a record high and 2 times larger than that of 2011.  
4.180.   Korea believes that the economic relationship will be further developed as a Trade 
Agreement between Korea and MERCOSUR is agreed upon in the near future. On 25 May this year, WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  the Ministers of Korea and Mem ber countries of MERCOSUR agreed to initiate negotiations. They 
will hold the first round of negotiations on 11 September this year in Uruguay. Korea considers the 
beginning of negotiations to be a significant step toward deepening the important relationsh ip 
between MERCOSUR and Korea.  
4.181.   As the Secretariat report highlights, during the review period Uruguay has enjoyed 
significant economic growth, with an average annual increase in real GDP of about 3% backed by 
strong domestic demand and high international p rices for agricultural raw materials. The 
Uruguayan economy is dependent on international trade, which is evident in the fact that the sum 
of merchandise exports and imports was equivalent to 30.8% of the country 's GDP in 2017.  
4.182.   One of the main objectives o f Uruguayan trade policy is to ensure stable and predictable 
market acce ss. To this end, the Uruguayan G overnment has sought to integrate itself in 
international markets through bilateral, regional and multilateral trade negotiations. We hope that 
Uruguay will maintain this trade policy and contribute to expanding global trade and strengthening 
the multilateral trade system going forward.  
4.183.   I would like to conclude by once again expressing my appreciation to the delegation of 
Uruguay, and I wish the delegati on every success for the TPR.  
THAILAND  
4.184.   Thailand and Uruguay have a stable bilateral relationship. In 2017, total trade between the 
two countries amounted to US$63 million. Thailand 's major exports are led by machinery, fish, 
medical equipment, and footwea r while Uruguay 's key exports concentrate on leather, grains, and 
hides.  
4.185.   We are pleased to note that since the last review, Uruguay has implemented policies 
geared towards ensuring macroeconomic stability. Uruguay 's GDP increased at an average annual 
rate of 3% between 2011 and 2017. In addition, Uruguay 's per capita GDP is one of the highest in 
Latin America and the poverty rate has fallen in recent years.  
4.186.   Trade plays a significant role in Uruguay 's economy, accounting for 31% of Uruguay 's GDP. 
Thailand we lcomes Uruguay 's consistent efforts in enhancing competitiveness by promoting 
innovative activities with higher levels of value added and larger domestic technological content. 
In this regard, we are of the view that tariff reductions can be considered an additional instrument 
to increase competitiveness and greater integrate into international markets.  
4.187.   Thailand commends Uruguay for showing its deep dedication and commitment to the rules -
based multilateral trading system, including by ratifying the TFA, not ifying its acceptance of the 
Protocol amending the TRIPS Agreement, and submitting several notifications to the WTO during 
the review period.  
4.188.   Uruguay participated actively in the work of the WTO, especially in agriculture. As Cairns 
Group Members, we have a close working relationship with Uruguay in agriculture negotiations 
with a shared view of pushing for successful reforms in agriculture. We also appreciate Uruguay 's 
constructive and proactive contribution during the run -up to MC11, as well as its effort s to make 
progress in negotiating work in all areas of agriculture this year.  
4.189.   In relation to trade facilitation, Thailand appreciates Uruguay 's efforts to implement a 
series of measures to simplify and modernize export and import processes, for instance, t he 
introduction of electronic payment of duties and taxes, the digital Single Customs Document, and 
the Foreign Trade Single Window.  
4.190.   In this review, Thailand submitted a set of questions, covering the policies and measures 
of our interests such as tariffs and other charges on imports, investment promotion, and regional 
trade negotiations. Thailand thanks Uruguay in advance for the written responses.  
4.191.   In conclusion, we wish Uruguay every success in this Trade Policy Review.  
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  INDIA  
4.192.   Uruguay 's per capita GDP of  around US$ 17000 in 2017 is amongst  the highest in 
Latin America. We note from the reports that during the period under review between 2011 -17 
Uruguay 's economy grew keeping with its potential at an average rate of about 3% and is 
expec ted to grow by 3.2% this year. The poverty rate in the country has als o declined from 18.5% 
to 9.4%. However, Uruguay also faces challenges which include addressing unemployment, 
poverty and improving economic and social indica tors. We commend the Government of Uruguay 
for th e various measures and initiatives undertaken to address these challenges which include 
implementing a financial inclusion programme, incorporation of technology, measures for trade 
facilitation, pursuing an open investment regime and promoting growth in t he services sector.  
4.193.   India and Uruguay shar e warm and friendly relations. The trade between bo th countries 
which stood at US$ 184 million, though modest, has considerable potential to grow in areas like 
automobiles, chemicals, machinery , pharmaceuticals and textiles.  The number of Indian companies 
in Uruguay are also growing  in areas like IT and trading.  
4.194.   For capacity building and human resources development, India is also regularly offering 
slots in various training institutions to professionals from Uruguay under India 's Economic and 
Technical Cooperation programme.  
4.195.   We also wish to highlight a few issues which impact the potential of tr ade between India 
and Uruguay. These include the complex procedural requirements and charges for clearances of 
export goods l ike textiles and high tariffs on items like  leather, rubber and footwear. We hope the 
authorities in Uruguay would look into these to address them.  
4.196.   India and MERCOSUR signed a preferential trade agreement in 2004 which is presen tly 
limited to a few produc ts. Discussions are ongoing for expansion of the list of products which will 
give a further boost to our trade and investment ties with all the MERCOSUR countries.  
4.197.   To conclude, we look forward to working closely with the authorities of Uruguay for further 
expanding and harnessing the potential of our trade and inves tment ties for mutual benefit.  We 
wish the delegation of Uruguay a productive and successful TPR.  
THE PHILIPPINES  
4.198.   The Philippines and Uruguay enjoy more than four decades of diplomatic relations.  In 
August 2017, the Philippines had the privilege of being hosted by the Uruguay government for 
high-level bilateral consultations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Montevideo. Uruguay 's Vice 
Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Enrique Loedel and o ur Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for 
Policy Enrique Manalo had a comprehensive discussion to reinvigorate the partnership between the 
Philippines and Uruguay on a broad range of areas of mutual interest. One of the highlights of the 
meeting was the signin g of the Memorandum of Understanding between our Foreign Service 
Institute and the Artigas Institute of Uruguay, which is envisioned to boost people -to-people 
exchanges between our two countries through their respective diplomatic academies.  
4.199.   Uruguay has ex perienced continuous economic growth over the last 15 years, which can be 
attributed in part to its prudent management of the domestic economy. During the period under 
review, Uruguay implemented policies geared towards ensuring macroeconomic stability, re sulting 
in an average annual increase in its real GDP of about 3 %. As the Secretariat 's report highlights, 
Uruguay 's per capita GDP has reached approxi mately US$ 17,000 in 2017  — one of the highest 
rates of per capita GDP in Latin America. Its poverty rate also decreased significantly in recent 
years, from 18.5 % in 2010 to 9.4 % in 2016, a remarkable achievement that proves once again 
that solid fundamentals, sound economic governance, and integration into the global economy can 
be a successful formula for po verty reduction in any country.  
4.200.   Uruguay is not just a founding Member of the WTO. Its name is forever linked to the 
negotiating round that produced the constitutional basis and legal foundation for the WTO as we 
know it today. Yet Uruguay did not stop the re. Uruguay 's signing of the Protocol Amending the 
TRIPS Agreement, ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, and proactive participation in 
both formal and informal groups in the WTO, demonstrates the importance it places on moving the WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  WTO forward  and its continued commitment to further strengthening the multilateral trading 
system.  
4.201.   In particular, the Philippines commends Uruguay 's stewardship this year of the Friends of 
MSMEs Group in promoting greater participation of micro, small and medium ent erprises (MSMEs) 
in international trade. In shepherding our Friends of MSMEs group in the WTO, Uruguay has 
proven that it leads by example. Uruguay has shown its strong support for MSMEs through 
programmes implemented by the National Economic Development A gency (ANDE) that improve 
MSMEs productivity, access to information, and process quality. Through the establishment of 
Centers for Entrepreneurial Competitiveness, Uruguay has acknowledged the need for spaces 
where domestic MSMEs and entrepreneurs from any  given region in Uruguay could have access to 
quality and comprehensive support to nurture their growth and development.  
4.202.   The Philippines appreciates Uruguay 's recognition of the important role MSMEs in achieving 
inclusive growth and sustainable development , and looks forward to continue working together on 
advancing this initiative in the WTO.  
4.203.   The Philippines also looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial economic 
relations between our two countries through bilateral, regional, and multilat eral fora.  
SINGAPORE  
4.204.   Bilateral trade in services between Singapore and Uruguay in 2016 sa w an increase of 
123% from 20151, amounting to S$176 million. Visitors from Uruguay to Singapore have also been 
on an upward trend since 2010. In 2017,  bilateral trade  in goods between Singapore and Uruguay 
amounted to S$52.9 million. Singapore 's top exports to Uruguay, amounting to S$26.1 million, 
were in video game consoles and machines, and radiobroadcast receivers. Singapore 's imports 
from Uruguay, amounting to S$26 .8 million, were primarily in frozen fish, frozen meat, and milk 
and cream. While our bilateral trade in goods has been on a downward trend, we look forward to 
further growth in this area as well as closer economic ties overall given the initial discussion s on a 
free trade agreement between Singapore and MERCOSUR, of which Uruguay has assumed rotating 
presidency on 18 June 2018.  
4.205.   During the period under review, Uruguay implemented structural changes to its economy 
to facilitate business decision -making and i ncentivize investment, which have contributed to 
Uruguay 's 15 straight years of continuous economic growth. These reforms include greater 
diversification of Uruguay 's exports in terms of both markets and products, and incorporating 
technology into its production systems, including for traditional sectors such as agriculture. 
Uruguay has ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and introduced a series of measure s 
to facilitate trade, including: (i) the electronic payment of duties and taxes; (ii) the digital Single 
Customs Document; and (iii) the Foreign Trade Single Window. Uruguay has notified the WTO of 
its acceptance of the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreeme nt.  
4.206.   We are heartened to note that Uruguay seldom uses trade defence measures. During this 
period of review, only two anti -dumping investigations were initiated, while no countervailing or 
safeguard investigations were initiated, nor any measures adopted. We also note that Uruguay, 
together with other MERCOSUR members, signed several trade agreements which entered into 
force during the review period, and which have been notified to the WTO.  
4.207.   Uruguay is an advocate for the rules -based multilateral trading sy stem. It contributes 
constructively to the WTO 's work. For instance, Uruguay Ambassador Jose Luis Cancela Gomez is 
coordinator for the Informal Working Group on MSMEs, and also Chair of the Working Party on the 
Accession of Algeria.  
4.208.   We encourage Uruguay to  consider being a party to the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) as well as being an observer to the Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA). We also 
encourage Uruguay to fulfil its outstanding notifications in relation to  the Agreement on 
Agricultu re. 
                                                
1 Singapore imported S$143 million (+186% y -o-y) worth of services from Uruguay comprising mainly 
of transport services and trade -related services in 2016.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  4.209.   Singapore looks forward to building on our constructive cooperation with Uruguay and we 
wish Uruguay every success for this TPR . 
PARAGUAY  
4.210.   Paraguay shares with its brother country that is being reviewed today the status of 
founding member and participan t in one of the most influential trade blocs in the region. Like 
Paraguay, Uruguay's trade policy is intimately linked to its membership in MERCOSUR, and both 
countries are striving to achieve proper integration in international markets in stable and 
predictable conditions, in the framework of extra regional negotiations with the world's most 
advanced economies, taking account of the asymmetries in market access conditions and in the 
levels of development of the economies.  
4.211.   As stated in the reports, between 2011 and 2017 Uruguay experienced economic growth in 
line with its potential growth, with an average annual increase in real GDP of about 3%. This was 
made possible by the diversification of its production, and has led to an impressive decrease in 
poverty levels, from 18.5% in 2010 to 9.4% in 2016.  
4.212.   As regards national planning and transformation of the economy, we note the 
establishment in 2016 of the National System for Productive Transformation and Competitiveness 
(Transforma  Uruguay), which introduced me chanisms at the national level and an agenda of 
specific projects to ensure increased participation of, and better coordination with, the private 
sector and civil society as part of an effort to promote sustainable development, and to design 
strategies to foster productive transformation, enhance competitiveness and improve international 
economic integration.  
4.213.   At the same time, we note that Uruguay has applied an expansive fiscal policy, keeping 
current expenditure in low priority areas under control and inc reasing it in key areas such as 
education, health and social security.  
4.214.   We commend Uruguay for establishing its National Committee on Trade Facilitation and for 
its E-Government Strategies and its Digital Government Plan, as well as for its customs reform and 
modernization, including the Integrated Customs Intelligence System and the new National 
Customs Code, which has been brought into line with current MERCOSUR legislation. These 
measures to facilitate trade will be of great benefit to us all.  
4.215.   As a land locked developing country, we thank the Government of Uruguay for the free 
port spaces it has made available to the Republic of Paraguay, both in Nueva Palmira and in 
Montevideo, the latter having been recently reactivated.  
4.216.   Our bilateral relations with Uru guay are excellent. In the economic and trade area, those 
relations are governed by the 1991 Treaty of Asunción, the constituent instrument of MERCOSUR, 
and through MERCOSUR we can continue to develop our trade relations by deepening and 
improving the bloc  itself. We cannot but recognize the important role of the bloc in seeking and 
opening up new markets, and note the progress in our extra regional negotiations, inter alia with 
the European Union, EFTA, Canada and South Korea. We wish Uruguay every success  as 
pro tempore  President, and confirm our commitment to pursuing the bloc's agenda and providing 
active support for the initiatives under the MERCOSUR Digital Agenda group, and the reactivated 
Sub-Working Group 13 on E -commerce, and to reform of the commi ttees responsible for the 
implementation of the trade facilitation commitments, as provided for in the WTO Agreement.  
4.217.   We also wish to highlight the close cooperation between Uruguay and Paraguay in the 
OECD. With the approval of the Development Centre memb ership, both countries began to 
establish relations with the OECD with a view to introducing structural reforms aimed at boosting 
productivity and attracting more investment through the exchange of good international practices 
with the OECD countries, whic h together account for approximately 70% of world trade.  
4.218.   Both countries have undergone the multi -dimensional country review with the OECD, and 
participate actively in the OECD's Regional Programme for Latin America and the Caribbean as well 
as initiatives such as the Initiative for Policy Dialogue on Global Value Chains, Production WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  Transformation and Development; in the preparation of Revenue Statistics in Latin America and 
the Caribbean; and in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).  
4.219.   What stands out among these initiatives is the close fiscal cooperation between Paraguay 
and Uruguay in implementing OECD international standards. The Eastern Republic of Uruguay has 
adopted international tax standards and has been a member of the OECD's Glob al Forum on 
Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes since it was founded in 
September  2009. In this context, in September  2017 it concluded with Paraguay the Convention 
for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Eva sion with respect to Taxes on 
Income and Property. This convention aims to facilitate and foster international investment and 
trade, providing Paraguayan investors wishing to invest in Uruguay and Uruguayan investors ready 
to invest in Paraguay with legal certainty, and avoiding double taxation.  
4.220.   At the WTO, we value Uruguay's support for the multilateral trading system and 
underscore our joint efforts in agriculture and e commerce. We would also like to take this 
opportunity to commend Ambassador Cancela fo r his efforts and leadership in the initiative carried 
forward by the Informal Working Group on MSMEs. Like Uruguay, Paraguay would like to reaffirm, 
in this connection what was said at the Buenos Aires Ministerial Conference, particularly regarding 
the tw o countries' deep dedication to multilateralism and their commitment to the rules based 
multilateral trading system. On the same occasion, Uruguay stated that it considered the 
negotiations on agriculture to be a central pillar of the negotiations within t he WTO, alongside 
other areas such as e commerce and investment facilitation. Paraguay supports these priority 
areas and urges other Members to push them forward to enable the WTO to meet the challenges 
of the 21st century.  
4.221.   On behalf of my country, I offer  renewed congratulations to those conducting this review 
and to the delegates from the Permanent Mission of Uruguay in Geneva on their invariably active 
involvement and contribution to this Organization's work.  
COLOMBIA  
4.222.   Like many of my predecessors, I woul d like to begin by congratulating the Government of 
Uruguay for its economic performance. According to the Secretariat report, with an annual average 
growth rate of 3% during the review period Uruguay's economic growth has been in line with its 
potential.  
4.223.   In addition to the positive and stable growth rates, we would like to highlight two other key 
aspects of the Uruguay's economy. First, Uruguay has managed to achieve greater diversity in its 
export and investment destinations, and has thus been able to fre e itself from the business cycles 
of its traditional partners and to maintain its excellent economic performance in spite of the 
regional crises. Second, there was the successful implementation of social policies that 
accompanied its economic growth, so th at during this same period Uruguay was able to reduce 
inequality and continue to improve its already remarkable indicators in that respect.  
4.224.   International trade is a fundamental part of the Uruguayan economy. Its good performance 
can essentially be ascribed  to a robust domestic demand and to the favourable trend in 
international prices of its exportable supply. However, its main exports are still commodities, 
agricultural goods accounting for two thirds of the total.  
4.225.   According to the Secretariat report, Urug uay's exportable supply has lost in diversity: 
bovine meat and oilseeds account for 37% of total exports, while the share of manufactures 
decreased by approximately four percentage points during the period from 2011 to 2017 to 
27% of the total. We note wit h interest the Uruguayan Government's aim of expanding and 
diversifying exports, including incentives for specific investments that deserve exemption from the 
tax on income from economic activities (IRAE).  
4.226.   We would also like to underscore Uruguay's efforts  to facilitate trade. During the review 
period, it introduced a variety of measures to make international trade more flexible and secure 
using advanced technology tools, and it has in fact become a regional reference in this respect. For 
example, Uruguay i mplemented electronic payment of duties and taxes; use of the digital 
Single  Customs Document (DUA); automated control of port access to the Port of Montevideo; the WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  sea and air electronic manifest; and the Foreign Trade Single Window (VUCE). In 2015, the O ECD 
ranked Uruguay's VUCE third best in Latin America.  
4.227.   Another point worth highlighting is Uruguay's prominent role at the WTO. A founding 
Member of the Organization, Uruguay grants MFN treatment to all countries, including those that 
are not WTO Members. In 2014 it notified its acceptance of the Protocol amending the 
Trips Agreement as well as its Category A commitments under the Trade Facilitation Agreement. In 
2016, it notified that it was granting preferential treatment to services and service suppliers  of the 
LDCs, and also deposited the instrument of ratification of the Trade  Facilitation  Agreement. 
Uruguay takes an active part in the negotiations, particularly on agricultural issues, and continues 
to lead the groups focussing on agriculture, such as t he Cairns group, in which we share common 
positions and interests. Uruguay is currently known at the WTO for its leadership of the informal 
dialogue on MSMEs, an interest which we share and fully support. And finally, we both participate 
actively in the ne gotiations on fisheries subsidies, where we share the position of other 
Latin American proponents.  
4.228.   Uruguay's investment regime stands out for being fairly open: it has been in force since 
the promulgation of the Investment Law of 1998, and has been updated  over the years by a 
number of partial reforms. Uruguay participates actively in the ongoing discussions on investment 
facilitation for development, a fact which we very much appreciate.  
4.229.   Turning to bilateral relations between Uruguay and Colombia, 2013 saw  the signature, in 
Montevideo, of the Strategic Partnership Memorandum of Understanding between the 
Republic  of Colombia and the Eastern Republic of Uruguay establishing a framework for the 
development of joint strategic activities in the political, econom ic, commercial and cooperation 
spheres.  
4.230.   This MoU led to the creation of an entity known as the Economic Affairs Committee for the 
deepening of bilateral relations, enhancing trade and investment flows between the two countries. 
In 2017, Colombia's exports to Uruguay totalled US$36  million, while imports reached 
US$63  million, maintaining the usual positive balance in favour of Uruguay. Foreign investment 
has become increasingly dynamic in both directions. Colombia's stock of investment in Uruguay 
reached US $1,188  million in 2017, while Uruguay's stock in Colombia totalled US$775  million.  
4.231.   In conclusion, we wish Uruguay every success in its trade policy review. We are linked to 
Uruguay by a strong bond of friendship which is reflected in our close cooperation at the bilateral 
and multilateral levels and in our day -to-day work in Geneva. We encourage Ambassador Cancela 
and his excellent team to continue their active role within the WTO in favour of a better and more 
solid multilateral trading system.  
THE SEPARAT E CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.232.   I will refrain from repeating the impressive progress of Uruguay 's economy during the 
review period here. The Secretariat 's report highlights a number of the positive steps taken over 
the past few yea rs, such as Uruguay 's acceptance of the Protocol Amending the Agreement on 
Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Prope rty Rights (TRIPS), its granting of preferential treatment 
to services and service supplier s of least -developed countries,  and its introdu ction of a series of 
measures to facilitate trade. And, two other developments equally worth highlighting are that 
Uruguay has reduced the number of products subject to import prohibition, and that most of its 
SPS measures are now based on international st andards.  
4.233.   In addition, we commend Uruguay on the general openness of its investment regime, its 
financial system and its telecommunication services. Therefore , we see potential to further 
strengthening bilateral trading relationship between ourselves and U ruguay. We appreciate, as 
well, the contributions made by Uruguay during its role as general coordinator of the Informal 
Working Group on MSMEs (Micro -, Small - and Medium -sized Enterprises).  
4.234.   One other point we noted from the reports is that Uruguay, which is not a party to the 
WTO Agreement on Government Procurement (the GPA), has continued to reform its government 
procurement regime, with a view to streamlining procurement procedures and enhancing the 
transparency of the system in general. Speaking as a me mber of the GPA ourselves, our WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  experience has definitely been that membership brings more market access. So, we would strongly 
encourage Uruguay to consider joining the GPA, where it would probably find itself already in a 
good position to share in the com mon benefits.  
4.235.   In summary, we see Uruguay as a supporter of the rules -based multilateral system, which 
other Members would do well to follow. May I conclude by wishing Uruguay a most constructive 
and successful fifth Trade Policy Review.  
TRINIDAD  AND  TOBAGO  
4.236.   Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Trinidad and Tobago and Uruguay have 
enjoyed a cordial relationship. While the intensity of our relations and volume of bilateral trade has 
generally been moderate, our participation in its fifth revi ew of Uruguay 's trade policies and 
practices is testament to our interest in growing the trade volume between our countries.  
4.237.   In looking at the period under review, my delegation is heartened by Uruguay 's stable 
macroeconomic performance despite the number of challenges. We are encouraged by the 
continued growth of the Uruguayan economy and we applaud the Government for its prudent 
management. Greater diversification of exports and strong inflows of forei gn direct investment 
have contributed to making Uruguay a stand -out in its region.  
4.238.   It is noteworthy that the weight of sales of services has seen as marked increase in 
Uruguay. This is attributed to strong performance in the tourism sector along with tran sport 
services and telecommunications.  
4.239.   We are pleased to see that investment promotion, poverty reduction and the elimination of 
extreme poverty have been core pillars of the Government 's development strategy. The 
Government 's focus on investment in public  goods and attracting private investment for projects 
saw the Law on Public -Private Partnership (PPP) being enacted. The increase in social spending has 
helped reduce poverty and extreme poverty, and increase employment and household income. In 
recent year s, the poverty rate has fallen significantly. In 2017, 0.1% of Uruguayans were living in 
extreme poverty, down from 2.5% in 2006.  
4.240.   Uruguay 's trade policy embraces the achievement of stable and predictable access 
conditions to growing markets at all levels a nd recognizes the realities of twenty -first century 
obligations.  
4.241.   Uruguay deserves commendation for implementing its strategy for digital transformation. 
The Government continues to lay the platform for further progress in this area. Uruguay has 
recognized its challenges and limitations and is seeking to make sensible use of new technologies 
to improve the quality of education, government services and production development. We have 
seen that the Government of Uruguay approved the Uruguay Digital Agenda 2020  entitled 
"Equitable Transformation ", and the "Digital Government Plan 2020 " to comprehensively advance 
the digital transformation of the Uruguayan Government.  
4.242.   Telecommunication infrastructure in Uruguay is worthy of mention and the accompanying 
enabling r egulatory framework required for the public to feel assured in its use of information and 
communication technologies (ICTs) exists. All children in the public education system have their 
own computer with internet access.  
4.243.   We have taken note that Uruguay ha s declared the promotion, development and 
modernization of micro, small and medium enterprises to be a matter of national interest.  
4.244.   During the period under review, we saw the operationalization of the trade facilitation 
mechanism, "Single Window for Foreig n Trade (VUCE) ". In the area of customs reform, we have 
paid attention to all the initiatives undertaken and congratulate Uruguay for its progress. The 
electronic seal for secure transit has contributed to Uruguay having 100% control of its transit 
operati ons. 
4.245.   The delegation of Trinidad and Tobago acknowledges Uruguay 's significant and 
constructive contribution to the WTO. Uruguay is an active Member of the WTO and we note its WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  expressed commitment to multilateralism and look forward to partnering with Urugu ay both 
bilaterally and in the WTO.  
4.246.   Trinidad and Tobago wishes Uruguay a successful Trade Policy Review.  
SRI LANKA  
4.247.   The free market economy characterized by an export -oriented agricultural sector, with a 
well-educated workforce, and high levels of social sp ending, Uruguay has managed to avoid 
recession after global financial crisis and keep positive growth throughout. Although its steady 
growth has halted as a result of a renewed slowdown in the global economy during 2012 -2016, the 
growth has picked up again  in 2017. We believe the policies recently adopted by the Government 
of Uruguay towards ensuring macroeconomic stability, would stimulate this growth.  
4.248.   It is inter esting to note that the G overnment has reduced poverty by half over a period of 
6 years and th ereby has assured a relatively equitable distribution of income within the country. 
However, due to increase use of technology in less labour intensive sectors has resulted in 
increase of unemployment rate, which is the scenario for most of the developing nations like us 
face with technological advancements.  
4.249.   The transparency of the Uruguayan tax regime is characterized by the application of ad -
valorem tariffs only. Over the review period average applied tariff rate has not changed and has 
stood at 9.4%, a rate relatively high compared to similar economies. This further increase  with the 
imposition of various duties and charges exclusively on imports that hinders the import 
competitiveness. It is also noted with concern the presence of import restrictions an d prohibitions 
on number of products using the flexibility provided under GATT article XX and XXI.  
4.250.   As a founding Member of the WTO as well as the GATT, Uruguay, in particular the 
Permanent Mission in Geneva, plays an active role in strengthening the multil ateral trading 
system. The dynamic role played by the Ambassador José Luis Cancela and his team in Geneva in 
proactively engaging in ongoing activities of WTO is highly commendable.  
4.251.   We note that Uruguay has ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2016 and almost all 
of the TFA provisions, except Article 7.3 on Separation of release from final determination of 
customs duties, taxes, fees and charges, have been implemented by the time the Agreement came 
into effect. We wish to commend on this highly ambitious approach. Though Uruguay is not a 
frequent user of WTO 's trade remedies, it has initiated and imposed two anti -dumping measures 
during the review period.  
4.252.   In the bilateral front, both the countries maintain very cordial relations. The bilateral t rade 
stands at very moderate and a static level. Balance of trade has been always in favour of Sri Lanka 
as the imports by Sri Lanka illustrate negligible figures. Export of Apparel, despite the heavy 
protection maintained, is the dominant export item whic h accounts for 43% of Sri Lankan exports 
to Uruguay in 2017 followed by world renowned Ceylon Tea. However , in value terms, this is 
marginal.  
4.253.   In concluding, my delegation sincerely wishes the delegation of Uruguay a successful 
deliberation on its fifth Tr ade Policy Review, and successful world cup tournament as well.  
PAKISTAN  
4.254.   We want to highlight the positive role played by Uruguay in the WTO under the guidance of 
Ambassador Jos é Luis Cancela and appreciate his, along with his team 's efforts, espe cially i n the 
domain of MSMEs.  
4.255.   Chair, Pakistan and Uruguay enjoy very warm bilateral relations however, the trade 
potential is not up to the desired potential.  
4.256.   Uruguay achieved admirable growth between 2011 and 2017, its economic growth in real 
GDP was about 3%, its GDP per capita GDP is one of the highest in Latin America at around WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  US$17,000, with a relatively equitable distribution of income, the poverty rate has fallen to 9.4% 
in 2016, the inflation in 2017 remained within the range at 6.6%.  
4.257.   International trad e for Uruguay accounts for 30.8% of its GDP in 2017 for its trade in 
goods. Exports continue to consist mainly of commodities. Bovine meat and oilseeds remain the 
leading export products, accounting for 21.4% and 15.6% of the 2017 total, respectively follo wed 
by dairy produce and cereals. Agricultural products accounted for over 60% of total exports in 
2017. On the import side, major imported items in 2017 were machinery and electrical appliances, 
chemical products, mineral products and transport equipment.  
4.258.   China overtook Brazil to become Uruguay 's leading export destination in 2017, with 18.8% 
of the total imports compared to Brazil 's 16.5%, the European Union 's share stood at 11% and the 
United States share was 5.7%.  
4.259.   Brazil and Argentina lost respective m arket shares as suppliers of Uruguayan market in 
2017 compared to 2011. The US 's share in total Uruguay 's imports has grown slightly and there 
has been an increase in shipments from Europe and China, which supplied 17.2% and 20.0% of 
the total imports in  2017, respectively.  
4.260.   Uruguay is a founding Member of the WTO and has been a very active participant at the 
WTO during the period under review. In July 2014, Uruguay notified the WTO of its acceptance of 
the Protocol Amending the Agreement on Trade -Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights 
(TRIPS). Uruguay is also a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and is 
party to a number of international agreements administered by that organization. Uruguayan law 
provides for civil and cr iminal sanctions for infringement of intellectual property rights. In January 
2016, Uruguay notified the WTO Council for Trade in Services that it was granting preferential 
treatment to services and service suppliers of least developed countries. Uruguay d eposited the 
instrument of ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement in August 2016.  
4.261.   During the review period Uruguay was not involved in any dispute as a complainant or as a 
respondent; it participated as a third party in six disputes.  
4.262.   Pakistan appreciates that Uruguay has an open investment regime and provides for 
national treatment of foreign investment with a few exceptions, such as the provision of radio and 
broadcasting services, air and maritime cabotage, and fishing within its territorial waters. No prior 
authorization or registration is required in order to make an investment in Uruguay.  
4.263.   Pakistan commends the series of trade facilitating measures introduced by Uruguay during 
the period under review, which include: electronic payment of dut ies and taxes; use of the digital 
Single Customs Document; introduction of the Foreign Trade Single Window; automated control of 
port access to the Port of Montevideo; the sea and air electronic manifest; and the Authorized 
Economic Operator (AEO) program.  
4.264.   Uruguay applies only ad valorem tariffs. Its applied tariffs range from 0% to 30%. Around 
14% of its tariff lines are zero -rated. The simple average of applied MFN duties was 9.4% in 2017, 
similar to the level of 2011.  
4.265.   Under the Law on the Promotion and Protection of Competition, all Uruguayan or foreign 
public or private natural or legal persons engaged in economic activities on Uruguayan territory 
must follow the principles of free competition.  
4.266.   In the energy sector, private participation in the generat ion of electricity has increased 
considerably, particularly from renewable sources. Sustained investment in windfarms has 
contributed towards achieving energy independence, and the generation of surpluses for export 
could enable Uruguay to establish itself  as a net electricity exporter in the medium term.  
4.267.   Uruguay has an open financial system: there are no restrictions on capital movements. No 
distinction is made between national and foreign banks in terms of treatment with respect to 
operations or establish ment requirements. There are no restrictions on foreign participation in new 
or existing companies set up as public limited companies  in Uruguay.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  4.268.   In the Services sectors, the Telecommunication services are generally open to private 
participation. In the t ransport services, foreign companies may offer domestic air services by 
obtaining a concession based on reciprocity. Participation in the maritime transport market from 
and to Uruguay is generally open. Tourism accounted for an annual average of approximat ely 7% 
of GDP during the review period and was dynamic both in generating foreign exchange and in 
attracting investment but has furthermore potential.  
4.269.   To conclude, we want to wish Uruguay a very successful and a fruitful TPR and all the best 
in the 2018 f ootball World cup.  
BENIN 
4.270.   The delegation of Benin commends the efforts made by Uruguay during the 2012 -2017 
review period.  
4.271.   Indeed, during that period the Uruguayan economy often grew faster than its long -term 
growth trend (3%), thereby favouring the creatio n of jobs.  
4.272.   The average tariff level in 2017 has remained unchanged since 2011 at 9.4%.  
4.273.   Uruguay has had very little recourse to non -tariff barriers, and where they have been 
applied, the objectives have been reasonable: protection of health, national security, the 
environment, and sanitary and phytosanitary conditions.  
4.274.   Uruguay is implementing several reforms aimed at improving the environment, 
investment, and entrepreneurial activities, both public and private.  
4.275.   We draw particular attention to the gover nment procurement regime and trade facilitation.  
4.276.   The agriculture and livestock sectors are also important to the country's economic and 
social development.  
4.277.   In the three areas of monetary and exchange -rate policy, fiscal policy and incomes policy, 
Uruguay m aintains an inflation -targeting regime based on monetary aggregates, with a target 
range of 3% to 7%.  
4.278.   Having exceeded 11% in May  2016, annual inflation has been falling sharply, and reached 
6.6% in March of this year.  
4.279.   The delegation of Benin acknowledges U ruguay's important role in the multilateral trade 
negotiations.  
4.280.   We commend the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Uruguay to the WTO, 
H.E. Mr José Luis Cancela, for his contribution to those negotiations and for his availability and 
commitment.  
4.281.   We also welcome Uruguay's participation in efforts to promote regional integration through 
MERCOSUR.  
4.282.   We appreciate Uruguay's constant support for the LDCs, and its promotion of their 
interests and priorities in the ongoing Doha Round negotiations.  
4.283.   The delegat ion of Benin is pleased with the excellent relations that exist between Benin 
and Uruguay.  
4.284.   We hope that Uruguay's efforts, initiatives and reforms will continue and will yield results 
in support of sustainable and inclusive economic and social development.  
4.285.   The Beninese delegation thanks the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Uruguay for 
the highly informative reports drawn up for this session of Uruguay's trade policy review.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  4.286.   We extend our best wishes to Uruguay and wish it every success in this trade po licy 
review.  
HONDURAS  
4.287.   Honduras and Uruguay, whose diplomatic relations date back to 1929, have been bound by 
longstanding historical ties.  
4.288.   The two countries' bilateral relations operate through various different structures, for 
example the Binational Mechanism for Political Consultation and the Joint Committee for Scientific 
and Technical Cooperation, and they share membership in various international and regional 
forums.  
4.289.   Trade in goods and services between the two economies is significant, and a numbe r of 
potential opportunities have been identified to enhance their business relations. The two countries 
have therefore agreed to step up their efforts to promote trade and business visits between them.  
4.290.   The reports point out that between 2011 and 2017, Uru guay's economic growth was in line 
with its potential, with a 3% annual increase in real GDP.  
4.291.   Uruguay's per capita GDP is one of the highest in Latin America: it reached close to 
US$17,000 in 2017, and was accompanied by an improvement in income distributi on. 
4.292.   At the same time, we note that the poverty rate has decreased in recent years, from 
18.5% in 2010 to 9.4% in 2016 – a remarkable achievement.  
4.293.   The reports indicate that Uruguay has made efforts to promote e -government, to adopt the 
foreign trade single window, and to adapt the legislative framework to promote private sector 
participation in the financing of the infrastructure works required to support development, and its 
priorities include long -term reforms in the fields of education, housing and securi ty. 
4.294.   We also note that the Government is implementing a Financial Inclusion Programme for 
low-income households and micro and small enterprises, with a view to universalizing access to 
the financial system once the applicable legal framework has been reform ed. 
4.295.   Turning to Uruguay's indicators, we note that it ranks first in South America as regards 
prosperity, political stability, corruption perceptions, democracy and social inclusion.  
4.296.   Honduras wishes Uruguay every success with its review.  
PANAMA  
4.297.   We would lik e to take this opportunity to congratulate Uruguay for its macroeconomic 
achievements, and in particular for its stability and steady growth over the past few years, in spite 
of the fluctuations in the prices of raw materials and the recessions in neighbou ring countries. One 
of the main driving forces behind this growth has been the increase in the country's commercial 
activity.  
4.298.   Though more than 5,000 kilometres separate our borders, Panama and Uruguay maintain 
close trade links. Panama is a member of the L AIA, whose headquarters are in Montevideo, and we 
have concluded an investment agreement under which both countries are recipients of a significant 
amount of foreign direct investment from each other.  
4.299.   Direct trade between Uruguay and Panama exceeds 10  million annually, Panama being a 
net importer of syrups, medicine and meat from Uruguay. Meanwhile, trade with the 
Colón  Free Zone in the form of reexports reached US$130  million last year, with a surplus for 
Panama.  
4.300.   As regards connectivity between our two cou ntries, Panama serves as Uruguay's only air 
link with Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean. In 2017, more than 180,000 passengers WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  travelled between the two capitals on the two daily flights offered by Copa, representing 9% of the 
total number of passe ngers in Montevideo and 1% in Panama.  
4.301.   Although Uruguay's achievements on the macroeconomic front and its success in reducing 
inequality are impressive, the priority is now to curtail inflation and restore economic growth 
beyond 3% annually. We would encour age Uruguay to seek to implement policies and make 
investments aimed at transforming its primary agricultural products into higher value -added 
products that would generate more revenue and employment in the country.  
4.302.   We commend Uruguay for its participation  in the multilateral trading system, and in 
particular for its long history of promoting multilateralism, which dates all the way back to the 
launching of the round in Punta del Este; and more recently for its role as coordinator of the 
Group  of Friends of  MSMEs and its commitment to the negotiations for the elimination of fisheries 
subsidies, an objective which Panama shares.  
4.303.   We wish Uruguay every success in this review, and underscore the admirable work of its 
delegation in Geneva.  
H.E. AMBASSADOR  CARLOS  AMORÍN  (HEAD  OF DELEGATION)  
4.304.   I would just like to make a few final remarks. Firstly, we are grateful for the positive 
comments from various delegations regarding the state of Uruguay's economy, the transparency 
with which we have carried out this exercise, and above all, the progress we have made between 
the last trade policy review and this one.  
4.305.   It goes without saying that we have also taken note of the concerns expressed by certain 
delegations, including a number of additional questions which we hope to be  able to answer before 
this exercise is completed.  
4.306.   Nor do I wish to close this morning's meeting without thanking the Secretariat, and in 
particular Willy Alfaro and his entire team, for their support in carrying out this latest re view of 
Uruguay's trade p olicy. 
4.307.   On behalf of Ambassador Cancela I would like to invite you to attend the reception that we 
will be holding in a few minutes for all of the delegations present and for the members of the 
Secretariat. Thank you . 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF URUGUAY  AND ADDITIONAL COMM ENTS  
H.E.  AMBASSADOR  JUAN  CARLOS  GONZ ÁLEZ 
5.1.  Welcome back to day two of the TPR of Uruguay. As indicated by him on Wednesday, 
Ambassador Laourou is unable to attend the second session of this review meeting this morning, 
so he has r equested me to replace him. So , I will have the pleasure of chairing this meeting and 
present his concluding remarks.  
H.E.  AMBASSADOR  CARLOS  AMORÍN  
5.2.  Let me begin by expressing my gratitude:  
• to the Chairman of the Trade Policy Review Body (TPRB);  
• to the acti ng Chairman of the TPRB Ambassador Juan Carlos González, 
Permanent  Representative of Colombia to the WTO;  
• and in particular to the Discussant, Ambassador Diego Aulestia, Permanent 
Representative of Ecuador.  
5.3.  Last but not least, I would like to complete my r ound of thanks by acknowledging the work of 
the WTO Secretariat, in particular:  
• the Director of the Division, Mr  Willy Alfaro;  
• the Head of the Americas Region, Mr  Ángelo Silvy;  
• Counsellor Eugenia Lizano.  
5.4.  And of course, there is the rest of the team that wo rked on the report and supported our 
delegation during this fifth Trade Policy Review of Uruguay.  
5.5.  Finally, we extend our thanks to the delegations that participated in this exercise.  
5.6.  Uruguay welcomes the comments regarding its good economic performance in recent years. 
Our country has maintained a course determined by a policy of opening up its economy and 
stimulating investment.  
5.7.  At the same time, we value the recognition of our social inclusion policy, which has resulted 
in sharp decrease in poverty and in equality and a significant improvement in the social indicators.  
5.8.  We also take this opportunity to reiterate our country's commitment to the multilateral 
trading system, and in that framework, to WTO obligations, which should be respected as the 
irreplaceab le rules governing international trade.  
5.9.  As stated at the opening of this exercise, there is no substitute for the WTO as the 
multilateral institution in which to address and negotiate trade issues in all areas, and it is 
essential that we revive its role a s the forum for international trade negotiations. For Uruguay, the 
negotiations on agriculture continue to be the priority.  
5.10.   Let me now turn to the additional questions raised during the first day of this exercise and 
make a few advance remarks.  
5.11.   At the last  session, some delegations referred to the negotiations to eliminate fisheries 
subsidies. Uruguay reaffirms its commitment to these negotiations, the aim of which is to eliminate 
fisheries subsidies by 2020 in accordance with Sustainable Development Goal  14.6 of the 
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  5.12.   The consular fee was increased for a period of two  years, after which a linear and automatic 
0.5% annual reduction timetable will kick in as from 1  January  2020. The increase and the 
reduction timetable w ere provided for in Article 265 of Law No.  19.535.  
5.13.   To answer the questions on the drawback scheme, this regime is only ever used by 
operators on exceptional occasions.  
5.14.   Uruguay's investment regime is open: national treatment is granted to foreign investment, 
and non -discriminatory treatment is guaranteed.  
5.15.   Foreign investors may engage in any type of economic activity with the exception of a 
limited number of sectors: the provision of radio and broadcasting services; cabotage; domestic 
air, land, mar itime, river and lake passenger transport; and fishing within a band of 12 nautical 
miles. All other activities are open to foreign investment.  
5.16.   On the subject of insurance premiums, under the laws in force it is not possible to purchase 
insurance abroad wi th national coverage except where a company meets certain legal 
requirements, namely that it be established and duly authorized to operate in Uruguay. Exceptions 
to this requirement are made for international transport and trade in connection with the good s 
carried: in those cases, insurance may be purchased abroad.  
5.17.   Regarding the granting of patents and the reduction of timeframes, the National  Directorate 
of Industrial Property has defined as one of its strategic objectives for this administration to tackl e 
the existing backlog in the patent area, and has introduced an action plan aimed at reducing the 
examination period. The time has already been reduced from 14 to 10  years, and the short -term 
objective is to reduce it to 9 years. Further information was p rovided on this subject in the reply to 
question 15 of the European Union, which is available to Members.  
5.18.   Turning to the fight against piracy, in connection with the organizational restructuring of the 
National Customs Directorate, the Intellectual Propert y, Asset Laundering and Drug Trafficking 
Division was set up within the Risk Control and Management Authority in 2013 with the specific 
task of fighting piracy and centralizing and coordinating all matters relating to such threats.  
5.19.   The purpose in creating this office was to control and repress the above crimes and to 
combat them by developing  strategies for cooperation between the State and the private sector 
and coordinating with other relevant state agencies.  
5.20.   The regular notifications  for 2016 were duly s ubmitted and editorial remarks were received 
from the WTO Secretariat . They will be amended accordingly and re -sent. 
5.21.   The notifications  for 2017 will be duly submitted to the WTO Secretariat.  
5.22.   We specially  wish to note that, in keeping with its Nairobi commitments, Uruguay 
communicated and proceeded to eliminate export subsidies from its Schedule XXXI on 
19 June 2018. With this decision, Uruguay definitively eliminated the possibility of establishing 
agricultura l export subsidies.  
5.23.   With respect to government procurement, the preference accorded to the domestic industry 
is a public policy tool of general interest, and consequently, for the moment there are no plans to 
amend the legislation . However, there are no co nflicts or inconsistencies between Uruguay's 
current government procurement legislation and the GPA. It should further be noted that where 
government procurement agreements are reached with third parties and national treatment is 
granted, that preference w ill also apply to any partner that meets the requirements that enable 
the preference to be granted.  
5.24.   Regarding the question on port charges, these are set in accordance with the service 
rendered, and hence in conformity  with GATT principles. They apply to a ll shipment or 
transhipment operations relating to import, export and transit activities in ports administered by 
the National Ports Authority, in the case of both domestic and imported products.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  5.25.   On the subject of sanitary measures on bovine meat, the BSE measures introduced by 
Uruguay are part of the regional  protection policy covering the four MERCOSUR member countries, 
in which indigenous cases of BSE were detected and which are officially recognized by the OIE as 
BSE "negligible risk" countries.  
5.26.   Regardi ng price control in the dairy sector, we stress that there is no such control. The 
Government merely fixes a ceiling price on fresh liquid milk in order to ensure that it is accessible 
to the entire population.  
5.27.   Turning to customs clearance and charges, fol lowing the modernization of Customs the 
procedures are entirely electronic, with interoperability of the relevant supervisory bodies through 
the Foreign Trade Single Window (VUCE). The National Trade Facilitation Committee is currently 
examining the follow -up for the procedures and associated charges in the context of the review of 
compliance with Uruguay's Bali commitments.  
5.28.   Regarding the written questions submitted by one of the delegations on Thursday, 
28 June 2018, we shall reply within the deadline for questions received after the date of the 
review.  
5.29.   Finally, we are grateful for the delegations' comments and for their general 
acknowledgement of the work done by Uruguay on trade facilitation measures, in keeping with the 
provisions of the WTO Agreement on  Trade Facilitation.  
5.30.   In this context, we reaffirm our commitment to continue working on the implementation of 
that Agreement, and above all to progress with the improvements that will help with the smooth 
functioning of international trade. Thank you.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.31.   Let me begin by congratulating Ambassador Carlos Amorín, Director -General of the 
Secretariat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and his delegation, for the smooth conduct of this 
fifth Trade Policy Review, whose success is reflected in the interest  shown by the 31  Members that 
asked to take the floor last Wednesday, 27  June. Many thanks, as well, for your comments on the 
different subjects raised on that occasion.  
5.32.   I would like, in this connection, to go over the points that were most frequently made  by the 
different delegations. The two themes most often mentioned were the country's sustained 
economic growth and the trade facilitation measures implemented by the Uruguayan Government. 
Two thirds of the Members explicitly recognized the importance of t hose aspects. Openness to 
investment was also a subject of particular interest to Members.  
5.33.   Thus, Uruguay was commended for its commitment to the multilateral trading system as 
evidenced by its trade liberalization and its ratification of the Trade Facilita tion Agreement, through 
which it has been able to streamline customs procedures, inter alia with the electronic payment of 
duties, automated control of port access, and the electronic window, as well as the 
Authorized  Economic Operators scheme.  
5.34.   This reflec ts the importance that Members attach to economic growth. The Government of 
Uruguay itself recognized that this growth and its impact on the well -being of its population were 
of great significance. The poverty reduction and income distribution so often men tioned by 
Members in their statements were concrete results of economic growth.  
5.35.   At the same time, I would like to point out that in the course of the first session, delegates 
expressed a number of concerns regarding Uruguay's trade policy, particularly wit h respect to:  
• measures that could be considered to be export restrictions, such as the consular fee, 
bearing in mind that this fee was in fact increased during the review period;  
• tariff levels for textiles and clothing;  
• export promotion mechanisms;  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  • restrictions in certain services subsectors, such as transportation, insurance and 
telecommunications;  
• protection of intellectual property rights.  
5.36.   Finally, certain matters were raised as food for thought and should be given consideration 
by the national au thorities, for example:  
• Joining the Information Technology and Government Procurement Agreements.  
5.37.   It goes without saying that this reflection must take place within the confines of Uruguay's 
public policy space and is entirely up to the Uruguayan Governmen t. 
5.38.   Finally, it is my hope that these elements will be useful in helping the Government of the 
Eastern Republic of Uruguay to pursue its efforts to fulfil its national public policy objectives, and 
wish Uruguay every success in the arduous task of making tr ade an instrument for the 
development of its people; and of course, we wish its football team success in the World Cup 
in Russia. Many thanks.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.39.   Let me first thank Uruguay for the comprehensive overview presented last Wednesday of 
the main dev elopments occurred during the review period  and the additional information 
presented today . 
5.40.   The EU is pleased to note that this review has been very useful for better understanding the 
trade policy of Uruguay and hopes that Uruguay will duly take into acco unt some of the challenges 
highlighted by Members  which were very few as I understand . 
5.41.   The EU appreciates the replies provided to the questions so far and would also be grateful to 
receive a few outstanding replies to questions 10 to 13 which cover sanitar y and phytosanitary 
requirements.  
5.42.   The EU has submitted one follow -up question regarding infringement of co pyright and we 
look forward to the reply in due course.  
5.43.   In conclusion, we would like to congratulate Uruguay for this very successful Trade Policy 
Review.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.44.   We have listened with appreciation to the very clear and thoughtful  statements of 
Ambassador Amorín and Ambassador Aulestia this morning.  
5.45.   The United States would like to express our appreciation , as always , to the Secretariat and 
to the entire delegation of Uruguay, including Ambassador Cancela and all of our colleagues from 
the Mission there. We really appreciate you all as cheerful neighbours at many meetings here at 
the WTO.  
5.46.   We also greatly appreciate the summary of discussions fro m day 1 and the responses 
received from Uruguay to our advance written questions. My colleagues from Washington are 
looking everything over carefully , and we have no follow -up questions at this time.  
5.47.   I will just take a moment to review a couple of areas of concern mentioned by the United 
States on day 1 of the TPR, those being on the increase in the consular fee  on imports to 5% . We 
look forward to further update s on that area. And stricter limits on the number of  allowable duty 
free express shipments valued at 200 dollars or less. Again, we would encourage Urug uay to 
eliminate these trade -restrictive measures.  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  5.48.   It is also noted with great interest and admiration the widespread interest in this TPR 
discussion , such as the country's focus on education, environmental protection, diversification of 
exports , and sustainable and inclusive economic growth. As Ambassador Shea mentioned on day 1 
of this TPR, the United States regard s our bilateral trade relationship with Uru guay as strong, 
positive , and growing in mutual commitment.  
5.49.   We very much appreciate Uruguay's constructive partnership, engagement and leadership in 
many areas here at the WTO , such as support for improving the business environment for MSMEs , 
and in activities with fish subsidies negotiations.  
5.50.   We also wish to compliment Uruguay's regional integration efforts and its strong 
participation in other international efforts such as peace -keeping and promotion of stability and 
democracy.  
5.51.   The United States would like to congratulate the delegation on a successful TPR and to wish 
our friends a very good economic road ahead and much up coming success in the World Cup.  
H.E.  AMBASSADOR  CARLOS  AMORÍN  
5.52.   We thank the delegations that took the floor today and assure th em that the replies to the 
pending or additional questions will be sent through the proper channels. At the same time, we are 
grateful for the positive response we have received during this trade policy review and in the notes 
from both the delegations.  
5.53.   Lastly, we would like to thank you for the sympathy expressed for our forthcoming 
adventures in the World Cup in Russia, which we hope will live up to our expectations.  
  WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  This fifth Trade Policy Review of Uruguay has all owed us to deepen our understanding of 
Uruguay 's trade and investment policies, and in particular of the changes introduced since the last 
Review in 2012. I would like to thank the Uruguayan delegation, headed by H.E. Ambassador 
Carlos Amorín, Director General of the Secretariat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for their 
constructive engagement throughout this exercise. I would also lik e to thank our discussant, 
H.E. Ambassador Diego Aulestia, Permanent Representative of Ecuador to the WTO, for his 
interesting and insightful remarks, as well as the 31 delegations which took the floor the first day, 
for their active participation in this Review.  
6.2.  Members praised Uruguay for its commitment to trade liberalization and for continuing to 
implement macroecon omic policies geared towards ensuring stability despite external shocks and 
regional adverse situations. Members commended Uruguay on 15 years of continuous economic 
growth, and noted that Uruguay 's real GDP grew at an annual average rate of some 3% betwee n 
2012 and 2017, which corresponded to its potential growth rate. This was a result of prudent 
monetary policy, a flexible exchange rate regime and lower fiscal deficit. It was also noted that the 
current account balance had improved during the period unde r review, and that now Uruguay 
registered a surplus. Members also commended Uruguay on implementing a development strategy 
focused on the promotion of investment in key areas such as education, and of inclusive social 
policies, which had resulted in a subs tantial decrease in poverty and inequality. Members 
encouraged Uruguay to continue its reform efforts.  
6.3.  Members noted the significant role that trade has played in Uruguay 's economic development 
and that merchandise exports and imports were equivalent to s ome 30% of GDP in 2017. The 
diversification of Uruguay 's export markets since the last Review in 2012 was also noted, 
especially the increasing importance of the Asian market, which resulted in a reduction of the 
dependency on traditional markets. Some Mem bers noted that, despite diversification efforts, 
Uruguay continues to be dependent on exports of agricultural products. In this regard, they 
exhorted Uruguay to diversify its production.  
6.4.  While observing that, as a member of MERCOSUR, Uruguay 's trade polic ies are largely 
determined by the common polices adopted by the trading bloc, Members acknowledged Uruguay 's 
strong commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading system and its active participation in 
the WTO. In particular, Members noted that, during  the period under review, Uruguay had 
accepted the amendment to the TRIPS Agreement and had ratified the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement. Uruguay had also granted preferential treatment to service providers from least 
developed countries, and had recently not ified its intention to eliminate export subsidies. 
Uruguay 's leadership in chairing the Informal Working Group on MSMEs, in addition to its strong 
advocacy regarding other MC11 initiatives such as e -commerce, investment facilitation, and 
women 's economic e mpowerment, were also noted. Some Members encouraged Uruguay to 
become a party to the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) and to update its pending 
notifications.  
6.5.  Regarding the investment regime, Members noted that Uruguay had a relatively open 
investm ent regime, and provided national treatment in most sectors with a few exceptions, such 
as the provision of radio and broadcasting services, air and maritime cabotage, and fishing within 
its territorial waters. No prior authorization or registration was re quired in order to invest in 
Uruguay. Nevertheless, some Members noted that foreign direct investment flows had fluctuated 
significantly during the period under review. In this respect, Members encouraged Uruguay to 
continue to maintain an open trade and i nvestment regime, which, along with the guaranteed legal 
stability regarding incentives and rights accorded to the investor, the existence of an educated 
workforce, and the freedom to transfer capital, profits and other gains associated with investment, 
provided an attractive climate for foreign direct investment.  
6.6.  As in the last Review, Members noted that Uruguay 's trade regime was largely open with low 
tariffs and few non -tariff barriers to trade. Members expressed their appreciation of Uruguay 's 
efforts t o implement trade facilitation measures. For example: the implementation of a Single 
Window for Trade; the use of digital customs clearance forms and an electronic payment system; 
and the implementation of a certification system for Authorized Economic Ope rators (AEO). 
Members, nevertheless, noted that, despite efforts to dismantle several charges applied on WT/TPR/M/374  • Uruguay  
 
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  imports, since 2012 Uruguay had increased its consular fee. They invited Uruguay to review this 
measure. In addition, the mandatory use of local custom s agents remained in place.  
6.7.  Uruguay 's average tariff rate in 2017 was 9.4%, unchanged since 2011. During this Review, 
it has been noted that Uruguay had recourse to few non -tariff barriers, and that these were mainly 
used to protect public health, nationa l security, the environment, phytosanitary conditions, and 
consumers. It was also noted that Uruguay rarely resorts to anti -dumping, countervailing or 
safeguard measures. Members identified some areas where improvement would be welcome, 
including: those re lated to customs procedures, licensing regime, export promotion measures and 
pricing practices at ports. They also encouraged Uruguay to provide more information regarding: 
the drawback system; the elaboration of technical regulations; and food labelling r equirements, 
and to improve some aspects of the implementation of its SPS regime.  
6.8.  During the period under review, Uruguay continued to reform its government procurement 
regime to expedite procedures and increase transparency, an area which Members had ref erred to 
during the previous Review. However, the legislation in place continues to allow exceptions to the 
general public tendering regime, and preferences are granted to specific sectors. Members sought 
clarification of the government procurement system,  and invited Uruguay to consider becoming a 
Party to the GPA in light of the importance of this sector to its economy. In this regard, Members 
also encouraged Uruguay to consider the efficiency of removing preferences for local providers and 
local content requirements.  
6.9.  Uruguay was commended for the improvements made since the last Review to its framework 
for the protection of intellectual property rights (IPRs). However, some Members highlighted 
existing challenges regarding the protection of IPRs, such as the need to reduce the time required 
to grant patents to promote innovation and to tackle the problem of counterfeiting and piracy. 
Uruguay was also encouraged to join the WIPO treaties on patents and trademarks.  
6.10.   Members noted that agriculture is of prima ry importance to Uruguay, in particular given the 
country 's reliance on exports of agricultural products. Agricultural products accounted for some 
two thirds of total exports in 2017. Some Members noted that Uruguay 's tariff protection was 
higher for agric ultural products, and sought more information regarding price control  in this sector.  
6.11.   Members commended Uruguay for maintaining an open services regime. Although access to 
Uruguay 's services ' market was generally open and non -discriminatory, several Membe rs noted 
that state ownership remained substantial. Public enterprises continued to play an important role 
in Uruguay 's service sector, operating in the financial services, transport, telecommunications and 
post, electricity, and water and sanitation subse ctors. In the energy sector, Uruguay was invited to 
continue its efforts to diversify energy sources.  
6.12.   Uruguay has provided answers to almost all advance written questions raised by Members. 
This TPR will be successfully concluded once Uruguay has replied t o all outstanding questions that 
emerged during the meeting, in a month 's time. Uruguay was applauded for being a strong 
supporter of the WTO. I believe Members felt heartened by the results achieved by Uruguay, and 
encouraged it to persevere in that path and address the remaining challenges. I hope that the 
discussion held during this Review will prove useful to Uruguay in its future pursuit to reform its 
economic and trade policies.  
__________