WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION  G/AG/GEN/85 
15 June 2009 
 (09-2922) 
Committee on Agriculture  
  
 
RESULTS OF THE SURVEY ON THE IMPROVEMENT OF TIMELINESS AND 
COMPLETENESS OF NOTIFICATIONS UNDER EXISTING PROCEDURES 
 
Note by the Secretariat
1 
 
 
1. At the request of the Chairman of the Gene ral Council, at the March 2009 meeting of the 
Committee on Agriculture, Members considered ways to improve the timeliness and completeness of 
notifications and other information flows on tr ade measures falling within the purview of the 
Committee. 
2. In the consultations, Members have generally recognized the need to improve compliance 
with their notification obligations as well as to enhance institutional capac ity to analyze notified 
information and to participate in the Review Pr ocess.  A number of constructive ideas were expressed 
in this regard. To help focus further discussions , the Committee asked the Secretariat to circulate a 
questionnaire in order to gain a better understanding of  the difficulties faced by Members in preparing 
and analyzing notifications as well as to identify potential solutions.2 
3. This note provides an analysis of the 36 res ponses received by the Secretariat by the cut-off 
date of 22 May 2009.  The questionnaires received af ter that date will be considered should the 
present note be revised. 
 
_______________ 
                                                      
1 This document has been prepared under the Secret ariat's own responsibility and is without prejudice 
to the positions of Members or to their rights or obligations under the WTO. 
2 See document G/AG/GEN/83. G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 2  
 
  Table of contents 
I.
 HIGHLIGHTS ..................................................................................................................... .....4 
II. PREPARATION AND SUBMISSION  OF NOTIFICATIONS............................................6  
A. PREPARATION  OF NOTIFICATIONS ..............................................................................................6  
1. Nature of problems  experienced.................................................................................6  
(a) Specific experience of developing countries.................................................................7  
(b) Specific experience of developed countries ..................................................................8  
2. Implementing specific solutions..................................................................................8  
B. SUBMISSION OF NOTIFICATIONS ................................................................................................10  
1. Factors contributing to the delays............................................................................11  
2. Solutions found to address late submissions............................................................12  
C. INITIATIVES TO ASSIST MEMBERS IN MEETING THEIR NOTIFICATION OBLIGATIONS ................13  
1. Solutions to be considered by Members internally.................................................13  
2. Solutions to be considered by the WTO Secretariat...............................................14  
3. Solutions specifically relating to G/AG/2 and G/AG/2/Add.1................................15  
III. PARTICIPATION IN THE REVIEW PROCESS ..............................................................16  
A. FREQUENCY AND QUALITY OF PARTICIPATION .........................................................................16  
B. DIFFICULTIES  FACED ................................................................................................................16  
1. Posing questions .........................................................................................................17  
2. Responding to questions posed by other Members.................................................19  
IV. THE TOOL-BOX ................................................................................................................... 19 
A. ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING TOOLS .............................................................................................19  
1. WTO Members' Schedules........................................................................................21  
2. Agricultural Supporting Tables (" AGST tables ")...................................................21  
3. Notification requirements and form ats (G/AG/2 and G/AG/2/Add.1)..................21  
4. Notifications Handbook (WT/TC/NOTIF/AG/1)....................................................21  
5. Assistance by AGCD staff .........................................................................................22  
6. ITTC technical assi stance activities .........................................................................22  
7. Members' notifications to the Co mmittee on Agriculture (G/AG/N/-- 
series) ........................................................................................................................ ..22 
8. Organization of work and working procedures (G/AG/1) .....................................23  
9. Room document: Members' status of compliance with notification 
obligations ("Compliance document") ....................................................................23  
10. Room document: Questions raised by Members during the Review 
Process........................................................................................................................ .23 
11. Room document: Members'  written answers..........................................................24   G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 3 
 
 
  12. Summary reports (G /AG/R/-- series) .......................................................................24  
13. The Integrated Data Base  (IDB)..............................................................................24  
B. SUGGESTIONS FOR A NEW "TOOL-BOX"...................................................................................25  
1. Improvements to the existing tools...........................................................................26  
2. Electronic submissions ..............................................................................................26  
3. Improved distribution and early warning system...................................................26  
4. Managing data/information ......................................................................................27  
(a) Online archiving system..............................................................................................27  
(b) Data series and reports on notified information ..........................................................27  
5. Technical assistance and training.............................................................................28  
(a) Training/E-learning .....................................................................................................28  
(b) Notifications handbook ...............................................................................................28  
(c) Forum for mentoring/exchange of views ....................................................................28  
V. PRESERVING AND TRAN SFERRING KNOW-HOW ....................................................29  
A. ON-THE-JOB TRAINING ..............................................................................................................29  
B. ARCHIVING ............................................................................................................................... .29 
C. ESTABLISHMENT OF A "WTO  UNIT " .........................................................................................30  
 
List of Graphs 
 
GRAPH 1 -   TOTAL NUMBER OF RESPONDENTS = 36.............................................................................. 4  
GRAPH 2 -   REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONDENTS ....................................................................... 4  
GRAPH 3 -   INCIDENCE OF PROBLEMS IN PREPARING NOTIFICATIONS .................................................... 6  
GRAPH 4 -   OVERCOMING PROBLEMS AT PREPARATION STAGE ............................................................. 9  
GRAPH 5 -   INCIDENCE OF PROBLEMS AT SUBMISSION STAGE .............................................................. 11  
GRAPH 6 -   OVERCOMING PROBLEMS AT SUBMISSION STAGE .............................................................. 12  
GRAPH 7 -  PROBLEMS FACED IN PARTICIPATING IN THE REVIEW PROCESS ......................................... 17  
GRAPH 8 -  AWARENESS , USAGE AND HELPFULNESS OF EXISTING TOOLS ............................................ 20  
GRAPH 9 -   NEED TO IMPROVE DISSEMINATION OF NOTIFICATION -RELATED INFORMATION ............. 25  
GRAPH 10 -  FREQUENCY AND QUALITY OF PARTICIPATION IN THE  REVIEW PROCESS ....................... 31  
 
 G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 4  
 
  I. HIGHLIGHTS 
• The questionnaire G/AG/GEN/83 was distributed to all delegations on 3 April 2009.  By 
22 May 2009, 36 responses were received, repres enting slightly less than 30 per cent of the 
membership.   
• As reflected in Graph 1, the share of developi ng country respondents is 78 per cent.  There was 
no response from any least-developed country by the cut-off date.   
GRAPH 1 -   TOTAL NUMBER OF RESPONDENTS = 36 
DEVELOPED
22%
DEVELOPING
78%
 
• The regional distribution of respondents is shown in  Graph 2.  More than three-quarters of the 
responses originate in Asia and the Pacific a nd South/Central America and the Caribbean.  
GRAPH 2 -   REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONDENTS  
SOUTH/CENTRAL 
AMERICA AND 
CARIBBEAN
27.8%
NORTH AMERICA
8.3%
EUROPE
8.3%ASIA AND PACIFIC
44.4%AFRICA
8.3%MIDDLE EAST
2.8%
 
  G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 5 
 
 
  Participation in the Review Process 
• Overall the Review Process is working well but would benefit from some adjustments and 
increased involvement by Members.   
• To a large extent, the Review Process still relies on a small number of players.  Only half of 
the respondents report that they participate fre quently. By contrast, approximately 28 per cent 
of the respondents, all from developing c ountries, never or rarely participate.  
• Among the respondents who actually participate in  the Review Process, 85 per cent consider 
that the quality of their involvem ent is either satisfactory or average.  Some delegations appear 
to have only developed expertise in the areas pertaining to their own notification obligations, 
which has effectively restricted  their ability to fully take part in the Review Process. 
• Overall, Members' replies during the Review Pro cess are reported to be useful but not entirely 
satisfactory due to the occasional avoidance of substantive matters through excessively 
general, ambiguous or incomplete  answers. This may deter Members from contributing to the 
"questioning" side of the Review Process. 
• For the "responding" side, the Review Process usually  yields satisfactory results.  It generates 
positive spill-over effects on Members' awareness of agricultural trade policies.  However, it is 
often hampered by limited institutional and hum an capacity or insufficient timeframes to 
prepare responses. 
Challenges in meeting notification obligations 
• The great majority of respondents confirms having experienced problems in preparing and 
submitting their notifications. 
• The more detailed and comprehensive data re quirements are, the more complex and time-
consuming the preparation process becomes.  Both the timeliness and completeness of 
notifications depend on the availability of we ll-trained human resources assigned to the 
reporting and submission of agriculture no tifications, as well as on the number of 
implementing bodies and resource agencies involve d at national and sub-national level.   
• Some respondents consider that performing comp lex data collection and verification tasks is 
particularly challenging in view of the insuffi cient timeframes provided for in the established 
procedures. 
• Half of the respondents have been able to im plement a variety of solutions to address these 
challenges, encompassing the improvement of internal procedures, creation of informal collaborative frameworks, investment in human resources and establishment of comprehensive data collection and archiving systems. 
• Three categories of initiatives are cited by resp ondents to assist Members in meeting their 
notification obligations:  those to be taken up by Members;  by the WTO Secretariat;  and by 
the Committee on Agriculture. 
Tool-Box 
• Existing tools score highly in terms of awaren ess, usage and helpfulness but would benefit 
from updating, enhancements and improved accessibility. 
• Three-quarters of respondents point out that the distribution of notifications and notification-
related information should be improved.  A variety of dissemination media, new technical 
assistance, training initiatives and mentoring opportunities are suggested.   
• In this context, respondents also underscore th e importance of capacity building. Some share 
their respective experiences in preserving and transferring know-how.   G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 6  
 
  II. PREPARATION AND SUBMISSION OF NOTIFICATIONS 
A. P
REPARATION  OF NOTIFICATIONS  
4. Approximately three-quarters of respondents, th e great majority of which are developing 
countries, confirm having experienced problems while  preparing their notifications prior to their 
submission to the Committee on Agriculture.   
GRAPH 3 -   INCIDENCE OF PROBLEMS IN PREPARING NOTIFICATIONS  
 
024681012141618
DEVELOPING 76 1 5
DEVELOPED 242NO SOMETIMES YESnumber of respondents
 
 
1. Nature of problems experienced 
5. For both developed and developing  country respondents, the shortage of human resources and 
the unavailability of properly-trained technical sta ff for compiling and processing information, appear 
to be major impediments in preparing their notificat ions.  There is general recognition of an urgent 
need to enhance the knowledge of technical staff.   The responses supplied also reveal that the 
availability of human resources for notification pur poses has suffered from the intensity of the DDA 
negotiations.   
6. As a general rule, respondents find that the more detailed and comprehensive data 
requirements are, the more complex and time-consuming the preparation process becomes.  Factors such as reliance on large data systems;  implementati on of agricultural policy reforms;  and repeated 
administrative changes in Members' agricultural de partments, may also affect the timeliness and 
completeness of notifications.  The turnover of capital-based personnel, in particular, is reported as an 
element that disrupts the continuity of well-func tioning and vital information networks (information 
gathering, presentation, verification, approval and final submission) and transfer of knowledge.  G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 7 
 
 
  7. A number of respondents underline the insuffici ent timeframes provided for in the current 
procedures, especially when it comes to the notifi cation of domestic support measures.  Timing issues 
are particularly acute in cases where the data used  in the preparation of notifications originates in 
other governmental services (financial authorities, customs services, agricultural departments), and 
where different levels of implem entation (national, sub-national, and customs unions) are involved.  
Procedural matters (involving financial and lega l experts) between various authorities and the 
decentralization of tasks may hamper the timeliness of data collection, processing, verification and reporting.  A few respondents even note that the sh ared jurisdiction of agriculture between national 
and sub-national authorities requires extensive, e ffective and efficient consultation mechanisms to 
gather the necessary data and programme details for classification and measurement purposes.  In 
well-functioning systems, on-going communication ensu res both the accuracy of necessary data and a 
proper classification of measures.   
8. A few respondents note that, in the export competition area as well, the reporting of the actual 
expenditures in the export subsidy notification format s can be a fairly complex task.  They observe 
that meticulous data aggregati on and reconciliation procedures are crucial, in particular when 
commitments are scheduled on a fiscal year basis.   The same holds true when data collection on 
international food aid needs to be compil ed to complete the Table ES:3 format. 
9. When analyzing problems, one respondent expresses the view that timeliness issues should 
perhaps be distinguished from completeness issues  when solutions are proposed, taking account of the 
nature of the notification requirements.  For exam ple, the notifications required for reporting existing 
or modified regulatory frameworks, e.g. under the Table MA:1 and DS:2 formats, should also be 
differentiated from the data-oriented notifications , such as the Table DS:1, MA:2, ES:1-ES:3, and 
NF:1 notifications. 
(a) Specific experience of developing countries  
10. In addition to the problems listed in paragr aphs 5 to 8 above, a few developing country 
Members call attention to the fo llowing issues in their responses: 
(a) the absence of dedicated agriculture notifi cation desks in the concerned government 
departments.  In some cas es, the unit responsible for th e preparation of agriculture 
notifications simultaneously carries out othe r functions such as, agricultural policy 
and research, and acts as SPS National Notifi cation Authority and SPS Enquiry Point;   
(b) the data supplied by the concerned resource agencies is not always received by the 
designated capital-based official or th e Geneva-based delegation in the proper 
notification format;  
(c) the trade information that is required for th e preparation of Table MA:2 notifications 
is sourced from customs authorities and is often received with considerable delay; 
(d) the lack of experience in identifying domest ic trade-distorting measures, interpreting 
and applying the relevant legal provisions to the national context, structuring the 
programmes in accordance with WTO rules and notification formats, and calculating 
the AMS.  In this respect, a number of respondents consider that a high degree of subjectivity prevails when attempting to determine the classification of specific policies under the distinct notification format s, or which support measures should be 
omitted from the notification.   G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 8  
 
  (b) Specific experience of developed countries 
11. In addition to the problems listed in paragr aphs 5 to 8 above, a few developed country 
respondents call attention to the following specific questions: 
(a) under major support programmes, payments  to agricultural producers sometimes 
continue to be effected one or two years after the marketing year to be notified. 
Moreover, a small number of files that re main under review due to audit or appeal 
procedures are not finalized until three to four years after the marketing year in question.  These two situations may cause dela ys in Members' ability to obtain actual 
data for notification purposes, rather than estimates or forecasts;  
(b) in one case, successive enlargement proce dures since 1995 have been initiated, 
causing delays in notifications, but also raising issues that are closely related to the 
status of the respondent's Schedule of commitments. Since the Schedule remains 
uncertified, the basis for notification, fo r a number of reporting obligations, remains 
unclear as well; 
(c) for one respondent, Tables MA:1, and MA:3 to MA:5 are, in principle, easy to 
complete since their contents are based on domestic legislation.  However, the recent 
simplification and decentralization of the administration system has generated major 
difficulties in the respondent's attempts to  complete the Table MA:2 format in a 
timely manner; 
(d) one proponent suggests that the units of measurement to be used in Table MA:2 
notifications should be more clearly define d in the notification requirements, i.e. 
kilograms net weight vs. kilograms gross weight.  Likewise, the absence of guidelines 
on the rounding of figures in the domestic support area allegedly results in a loss of precision in the reporting of domestic support figures.  Consequently, the respondent 
proposes that the number of digits after the decimal point should be rigorously established. 
2. Implementing specific solutions 
12. Nineteen respondents report having partly, or entirely, overcome the problems they have 
faced in preparing notifications.  All these res pondents describe the sustained efforts they have 
displayed in creating informal coordination system s and collaborative networks in their respective 
administrative environment, increasing their reliance on the use of electronic means of communication, setting up focal points in the various resource agencies.   In addition, the following 
differentiated approaches are reported by devel oping and developed count ry respondents.    G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 9 
 
 
  GRAPH 4 -   OVERCOMING PROBLEMS AT PREPARATION STAGE  
 
024681012
DEVELOPING 696
DEVELOPED 222NO SOMETIMES YESnumber of respondents
 
 
13. The 15 developing country respondents ha ve applied the following solutions : 
(a) intensifying consultation and briefing sessi ons;  improving information dissemination 
and establishing clear deadlines, responsibiliti es, and reference material;  enhancing 
coordination with resource persons, contributing agencies at national and sub-national 
level, and technical staff; and personalized  on-the-job training and follow-up.  These 
steps have reportedly proven to be partic ularly successful to deal with the problems 
described in paragraphs 5 to 7 above; 
(b) in a few cases, the respondents were able to  formally set up a "WTO unit" specifically 
in charge of notifications; 
(c) data searching in the WTO website, and seeking support from, and exchange of 
views, with WTO staff; 
(d) establishing clear verification procedures i nvolving consultations with the primary 
sources of information, coupled with traini ng of personnel in charge of notifications, 
in order to address the category of prob lems identified in paragraph 8 above. 
14. In order to alleviate concerns regarding dela ys in submitting notifications, certain developed 
country respondents have taken the following steps: 
(a) the increase of human resources devoted to the completion of Table DS:1 
notifications has allowed a few respondents to tackle the kind of issues raised under 
paragraph 7.  However, reinforcing human resources is not perceived as an optimal 
solution by all respondents, hence some are advocating streamlining of functions 
within the limits of existing resources; G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 10  
 
  (b) setting up a process to communicate advance notice of deadlines and data 
requirements to those sub-national government  departments at various levels that are 
responsible for supplying data.  In the r espondent's experience, clarifying timelines 
and data requirements assists in work pl anning and avoids unnecessary delays.  In 
dealing with the types of situations d escribed in paragraph 11(a), the respondent 
strives to avoid causing undue delays by using the best available data when the 
Table DS:1 submission is due, followed by revisions when official statistics become available; 
(c) communicating the integral version of the a pplicable implementing legislation to the 
WTO, in the case of Table MA:1 notificati ons, has allowed one respondent to avoid 
causing undue delays pending the resolution of the problem described in 
paragraph 11(b) above;   
(d) elaborating briefing notes to inform new staff of the notifications requirements and 
the areas for which the respondent has scheduled commitments.  Similarly, the crucial importance of a complete and transparent f iling system to track precedents and best 
practices is also underlined in this case.  Extensive footnoting in recent notifications 
has also afforded a greater level of detail as to primary sources, product and policy coverage, and rationale, to th e benefit of the WTO Membership as well as the staff in 
the notifying country; 
(e) anticipating the impacts of change and agri cultural policy reform to counter possible 
disruptions in the collection of data.  One respondent takes account of WTO 
notification requirements in designing policy implementation so that data collection 
and reporting mechanisms (notably financ ial reporting statements in the case of 
Table DS:1, or customs data in the ca se of Table MA:2) are shaped in a WTO-
compatible manner.  In other words, maki ng certain WTO information needs explicit 
at an early stage can effectively mitigate the disruption of data flows. 
B. S
UBMISSION OF NOTIFICATIONS  
15. The graph below shows that all developed countries and 90 per cent of the developing 
countries represented in the sample declare ha ving experienced problems in submitting their 
notifications in a timely manner.  Of the 36 Memb ers participating in the survey, three developing 
country respondents confirm never having had any pr oblem in submitting their notifications on time.  
The survey highlights that most of the problems fa ced at submission stage are often "carried over" 
from those experienced during the preparation stage.  Hence, they are not substantially different from 
those outlined in Section A above. They are essentia lly problems of a technical or organizational 
nature that were identified in the preparation phase,  but that often spill over to the submission phase.   
16. It is important to note, however, that two developed and five deve loping country respondents 
flag that they do not experience any major probl em during preparation stage, but do face certain 
challenges when the domestic clearance (submission pr ocess) is started.  This sample of responses 
clearly demonstrates that the problems associated wi th each phase can be quite distinct depending on 
the particular situation of the Member concerned.    G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 11 
 
 
  GRAPH 5 -   INCIDENCE OF PROBLEMS AT SUBMISSION STAGE  
024681012141618
DEVELOPING 31 1 1 4
DEVELOPED 53NO SOMETIMES YESnumber of respondents
 
1. Factors contributing to the delays 
17. Once again, respondents report that while th e DDA negotiations have been underway, the 
heavy involvement of capital-based officials has left  little time to be devoted to the preparation of 
notifications.  However, the shortage of comp etent human resources coupled with frequent staff 
turnover in government agencies or restructuring of  administrative offices, are mostly blamed by all 
respondents for delayed submissions.  Where available,  it appears that the technical staff responsible 
for the evaluation, preparation and submission of no tifications must also perform other functions and 
tasks.  The incidence of delays of a procedural  or organizational nature within, or between, the 
departments concerned, as well as undue bureaucrac y and numerous approval mechanisms are also 
cited.  The more scattered data sources are at nati onal and sub-national levels , the more complex and 
time-consuming the data compilation, disaggregati on and verification processes, and the longer the 
submission delays.  
18. Furthermore, some key statistics are not read ily available within the submission period 
prescribed by the WTO, as in the case of Table DS:1 .  Not only the data collection and disaggregating 
processes are time-consuming, but information on act ual expenditures is impossible to obtain in a 
timely manner since official statistics are not publis hed by the relevant authorities until at least six 
months to one year after the end of the established tim eframe.  In some cases, the level of detail that is 
required for a proper classification of the support programmes is simply not available.  Within the General Services category, the amounts disbursed w ith respect to the marketing, infrastructure, 
training, dissemination, and consultancy services ar e particularly hard to identify and notify by 
respondents in a disaggregated and timely manner. 
19. Similar issues relating to the unavailability of the required data affect the preparation and 
timely submission of Tables ES:1 to ES:3, as mentioned in  paragraph 8.  In general, the statistics that 
cover the provision of international food aid are re portedly available much later than those on export 
subsidies, and only released after the establishe d WTO timeframes for compliance with notification 
obligations.  G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 12  
 
  20. Some difficulties are more acute among developing country respondents.  First, responsible 
staff are not always familiar with the WTO ob ligations assumed by their government in the 
agriculture area, and hence, can hardly initiate the steps required to meet their own notification 
obligations.  The second obstacle relates to formats.  Data are not initially collected or generated in 
the established WTO formats which would otherwise facilitate the smooth and automatic preparation 
of notifications.  Very often, additional feedback  has to be sought from various governmental sources 
to supplement the initial inputs, with the adde d complications associated with further data 
reconciliation and consolidation, a nd the need to resolve any incons istencies.  One reported case in 
point is the preparation of Table MA:3.  Substa ntial delays can be caused by reconciliation and 
verification procedures since SSG actions are trigge red by customs authorities while the notification 
itself must often be prepared by the ministry of agriculture.  
21. As for developed countries, the inadequacy of established WTO time frames already flagged 
in paragraph 18 appears to be relevant not only  in the case of Tables DS:1 (one respondent in 
particular finds difficulty in accessing historical data  series due to the use of non-computerized data 
management systems in the past) and ES:1 to ES:3, but also for Tables MA:2 and NF:1.  
2. Solutions found to address late submissions 
22. More than half of the respondents who have faced problems have managed to solve them 
either successfully, or partially, through a variety of means.   
GRAPH 6 -   OVERCOMING PROBLEMS AT SUBMISSION STAGE  
 
0369121518
DEVELOPING 91 23 1
DEVELOPED 161NO SOMETIMES YES NO RESPONSEnumber of respondents
 
 
23. Some developed and developing country respo ndents observe that the easing of the time 
pressure on the DDA negotiations has recently allo wed them to give a renewed priority to 
notification-related matters.  For both categories of respondents, the solutions implemented are similar 
to those already described in paragraphs 12 to 14 above.    G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 13 
 
 
  24. Many respondents have therefore fostered, and attempted to maintain, a direct and closer 
relationship with domestic governmental agencies and agricultural experts in charge of data 
collection.  Procedures have been introduced to st reamline and coordinate the data collection process.  
Burdensome administrative procedures have someti mes been eliminated, competing needs balanced, 
and better coordination between the relevant governme nt agencies promoted.  When successful, this 
improved relationship has stimulated  the creation of informal coor dination systems using electronic 
means of communications between the focal points in the main resource agencies.  In a number of 
cases, the functions of such an informal collabora tive network have been extended to the preparation 
of the respondents' notifications and the analysis of other Members' submissions.  
25. In addition to the operation of such collabor ative networks, some developing countries have 
set up more formal systems.  Personnel has been reassigned on a priority basis, and resources and 
technical expertise have been pooled under a "WTO umbrella", as already mentioned in paragraph 13.  
Such a unit has often become part of the mini stry of agriculture, supporting any follow-up and 
coordination activities to be performed by the Gene va-based permanent mission.  To address the lack 
of comprehensive and centralized information bases, some respondents have set up committees 
comprising the different data contributing agen cies.  These committees have responsibility for all 
WTO matters, including the preparation, verificati on and submission of the respondents' notifications.  
They are also responsible for the examination of other Members' trade policies that are likely to 
impact on exports.  Recourse to tools such as th e WTO Notifications Handbook and other Members' 
notifications have been used by some developing country respondents. 
26. In addition to the solutions mentioned by develo ped country respondents in paragraph 14, it is 
worth noting that some Members have implemente d a number of computer-based solutions.  These 
include: 
(a) an improved archiving system permitting fast er and easier accessibility and exchange 
of information, as well as more efficient stori ng of data at a more detailed level;  and  
(b) the design of self-explanatory spreadsheets tailored for the calculation of the AMS. 
C. INITIATIVES TO ASSIST MEMBERS IN MEETING THEIR NOTIFICATION OBLIGATIONS  
27. The identification of specific needs, some of wh ich have been described in Sections A and B 
above, is a decisive step preceding the design of solutions.  Several respondents consider that each 
Member, whether a developed or a developing coun try, has gained specific experience and faced 
specific difficulties in fulfilling its notification obligat ions in the agriculture area.  While appreciating 
the role of the WTO Secretariat in the field of technical cooperation and the importance of access to 
the relevant background material, a few respondents observe that, to a large extent, the design of 
adequate solutions is a national problem.  It must therefore be addressed with national instruments and 
procedures.  In the same context, one respondent dec lines to offer any view of what would be the best 
initiatives to assist other Members, but states, howev er, that it would be willing to share experiences 
about "best practices".  
28. Nevertheless, several respondents consider that  a better knowledge of the advantages of the 
transparency aspects of notifications could encour age Members in improving their compliance record. 
1. Solutions to be considered by Members internally 
29. The possible solutions cited by respondents are similar to those already listed above with 
respect to the preparation as well as submission of notifications, namely: G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 14  
 
  (a) better coordination between governmental in stitutions, and improvement of internal 
and inter-agency communication channels; 
(b) appointment of experienced staff dedicat ed to the preparation of agriculture 
notifications and the monitoring of notifi cations circulated by other Members.  
Ideally, in the long-term, such dedicated staff could be organized into a so-called 
"WTO unit"; 
(c) better access by responsible officials to re levant background material, for example in 
the form of: 
(i) manuals or guidelines on procedures to fill in the required formats;  
(ii) direct hyperlinks to relevant websites;  
(iii) comprehensive computerized databases of efficiently stored trade and 
notification-related data.      
(d) increased cooperation and information exchange between WTO Members: a few 
respondents point out that the identification and sharing of "best practices" that have developed over the past few years could be beneficial to all.  In their view, some 
major players display greater knowledge and familiarity with notification systems and 
are naturally placed to participate more  effectively in the Review Process.  
Contributions from these Members can therefor e be usefully sought in the framework 
of technical assistance activities, notably  on complex topics such as domestic support, 
agricultural safeguards, and tariff quota utilization. 
2. Solutions to be considered by the WTO Secretariat 
30. The solutions outlined by the respondents to improve Members' compliance record fall in 
three broad categories.  These are: 
(a) reminders of unfulfilled obligations, to be re gularly and directly sent to Members by 
the Secretariat.  Such reminders could be provided well in advance of meetings;    
(b) electronic dissemination of recently-issued notifications to interested delegations:  a 
number of respondents feel that putting in place an emailing service would increase 
transparency.  The electronic document filing system should also be reviewed and enhanced to facilitate access to agriculture notifications; 
(c) capacity building and technical assistance in order to increase Members' awareness of 
their own notification obligations.   
(i) forms of assistance
: several respondents support the organization of 
specialized, targeted training events by  the WTO Secretariat, possibly in the 
form of national or regional workshops , to be held on a periodical basis. 
Alternative suggestions include: the organization of regular information 
sessions by the Secretariat;  the development of a distance learning module by the ITTC;  "on-the-job" exposure of capital-based staff through attendance 
at regular meetings of the Committee on Agriculture;  G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 15 
 
 
  (ii) target audience : essentially capital-based officials responsible for the 
preparation, submission and analysis of notifications, and working in the 
ministries of agriculture, foreign trade, economy and finance.  Respondents underline the importance of devel oping country participation; 
(iii) topics
:  the course content of any regular technical assistance activity in the 
field of agriculture which is undertaken by the Secretariat should be 
enhanced.  It should focus on the following aspects:  
 notification requirements, formats and procedures;  
 preparation of submissions from the perspective of the notifying 
Member using different data collec tion tools and relevant background 
material; 
 review and analysis of notified information;  
 classification of agricultural support measures in the Table DS:1 
notification format;  
 creation of "notification desks" in capital-based departments;   
 preserving and transferring know-how;  and  
 any required follow-up training, such as the preparation of FAQs, etc.   
3. Solutions specifically relating to G/AG/2 and G/AG/2/Add.1 
31. As reflected in the preceding sections, some of the problems faced by respondents are directly 
related to the insufficient timeframes for complianc e as laid out in the notification requirements and 
formats (G/AG/2 and Add.1) adopted by the Committee on Agriculture in 1995.  There are 
suggestions that more flexible  submission deadlines be adopted. 
32. There are also suggestions for revising and simplifying the existing notification templates, 
which in turn would facilitate Members' efforts in  meeting their obligations.  One respondent observes 
that, while revising the existing notification template s may not be the best use of Members' time given 
that new notification templates will be developed su bsequent to the successful conclusion of the Doha 
Round, it may nevertheless be useful if a "best prac tice" exercise were undertaken to highlight the 
type of information which should be included in notifications.   
33. In this context, acknowledgement is made of the exercise undertaken by the Committee on 
Agriculture in 1998-1999.  At that time, the notification requirements and practices had been 
examined, resulting in a number of useful s ubmissions by Members on ways to improve the 
notification formats and contents.3  An issue identified at that time  was the limited information, in 
some cases, that Members were required to supply using the existing notification templates.  For 
example: 
(a) under the SSG, there is only an obligation to notify its activation but not the 
additional duties effectively applied on im ports subject to the safeguard, nor the 
quantity of imports affected by the safeguard action.   
                                                      
3 See for example G/AG/W/45. G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 16  
 
  (b) only limited information is required for domes tic support notifications.  For example: 
(i) there is no requirement to provide the total value of agricultural production 
despite the importance of this benchmark to claim the de minimis  exemption 
under Article 6.4 of the Agreement on Agriculture;   
(ii) little or no information is ever provi ded about new or on-going programmes 
for which exemption from reduction commitments is claimed using the 
Table DS:2 notification format. 
III. PARTICIPATION IN THE REVIEW PROCESS 
A. F
REQUENCY AND QUALITY OF PARTICIPATION  
34. Table 1 below and Annex 1 show that all de veloped country respondents (representing 22 per 
cent of the sample of respondents) frequently participat e in the Review Process.   Most consider that 
the quality of their involvement is either satisf actory or average, except in one case where the 
respondent reiterates that the established timelines  for analyzing the notifications and preparing 
questions and answers are largely insufficient.  
TABLE 1 -  FREQUENCY AND QUALITY OF PARTICIPATION IN THE REVIEW PROCESS  
FREQUENCY QUALITY DEVELOPED DEVELOPING 
NEVER Unsatisfactory - 4 
Average - 2 
Satisfactory - 1 RARELY 
Unsatisfactory - 3 
Average - 6 
Satisfactory - 1 SOMETIMES 
Unsatisfactory - 1 
Average 2 2 
Satisfactory 6 7 FREQUENTLY 
Unsatisfactory - 1 
35. By contrast, approximately 28 per cent of the respondents, all from developing country 
delegations, never or rarely participate in the Review Process.  The respondents falling in this 
category represent more than one-third of the tota l number of developing country respondents.   
B. DIFFICULTIES  FACED  
36. Around 40 per cent of the respondents4 confirm that their participation in the Review Process 
is not hampered by any major concern.  This group of respondents also considers that the quality of 
their delegation's participation is either average (four cases) or satisfactory (nine cases).  
                                                      
4 Excluding those four respondents who declare having never  participated in th e Review Process.  G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 17 
 
 
  GRAPH 7 -  PROBLEMS FACED IN PARTICIPATING IN THE REVIEW PROCESS  
02468101214
DEVELOPING 10 8 6 4
DEVELOPED 341NO SOMETIMES YES n.a.number of respondents
 
 
37. In general, the responses reflect that all Members aim at being more pro-active during the 
Review Process.  The exchange of information between  Members is viewed as generally beneficial to 
all.  The concerns reported in raising issues during that Process stem directly from those already 
identified in the preceding sections.  Indeed, full pa rticipation can be constrained by the lack of 
trained staff with the technical and legal skills re quired to understand, assess or identify issues of 
interest; the lack of human and institutional cap acity; and, until recently, the involvement of 
agriculture experts in the DDA negotiations.  The non-WTO languages in which the original 
regulations describe the agricultural support programm es of interest are reported as another  important 
technical limitation. 
1. Posing questions 
38. Overall, the Members participating in this surv ey find that the responses provided have been 
useful, but not always fully satisfactory.  There are complaints about the occasional avoidance of substantive matters through excessive ly general, ambiguous or incomple te replies.  The vagueness or 
otherwise unsatisfactory nature of the responses  often prompts the questioning delegation to 
recurrently raise the same points in successive meetin gs, only to obtain similar feedback.  In other few 
instances, responses are delayed, or even remain in definitely overdue.  Respondents further note that 
this problem often surfaces with regard to the activation of the SSG, expor t subsidization and the 
explanations given on the nature and functioni ng of domestic support programmes, and that, 
unfortunately, the situation does not improve with time.   G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 18  
 
  39. In view of the above, some respondents remark that the effort invested in elaborating and 
formulating the questions in a detailed manner does not  deliver the desired responses.  This situation 
may act as a disincentive:  Members, particularly  those with limited resources, may be unwilling to 
spend significant effort drafting questions when  the answers submitted in response provide little 
clarity or additional information or elaboration.   
40. One recommendation is that initiatives to ensure  more efficient follow-up be explored:  for 
example, the Committee on Agriculture could consider  reforming certain procedures to place a greater 
onus on the responding Member to provide full and transparent answers.   
41. One category of respondents states that it rarely asks questions to the notifying Members, but 
appreciates, and studies carefully, all the responses.  This process has generally enhanced their 
knowledge and understanding of the rules and disci plines concerned as well as Members' rights and 
obligations under each relevant provision.  The respon ses also reveal that delegations do not have the 
same level of expertise and unde rstanding about the notification requirements that are applicable in 
each area.  They tend to be familiar with the type of notifications that they are required to submit in 
specific areas, but are not able to formulate que stions on policy areas for which they have no 
scheduled commitments. 
42. From the perspective of most developing co untry respondents, the absence of sufficient 
institutional capacity as well as organizational a nd technical limitations prevent the rapid and 
comprehensive analysis of notified information.  This has knock-on effects on the pertinence of their 
questions and affects their operational capacity to intervene, with the respective departments being 
only able to participate occasionally in the Review  Process.  In a few cases, capital-based officials 
responsible for notification matters are never designa ted to attend meetings a nd therefore never get a 
chance to pose questions themselves, as this task is exclusively entrusted to Geneva-based staff.  Even 
where capital-based experts are author ized to travel to Geneva to gain exposure to the type of 
implementation issues that are before the Committee on Agriculture, financial constraints may still 
prevent their participation.  
43. To address some of these shortcomings, devel oping country respondents recognize that they 
often tend to concentrate their analysis on those tr ading partners of interest from the commercial and 
policy perspectives.  Consequently, not all notificati ons are analyzed with the same level of detail.  
Another way to overcome such limitations is to  increase coordination with other Geneva-based 
delegations sharing similar commercial interests and c oncerns.  This practice is beneficial in the sense 
that it allows developing country  delegations to associate, and coordinate with others, whether 
developed or developing country Memb ers, in order to address a much larger set of notifications by 
pooling, rather than duplicating, all questions.   
44. Table 1 above shows that deve loped country respondents tend to frequently, and actively, 
participate.  The specific complications they face tend to relate to procedural or technical considerations.  For example, the timing of the release  of the airgram is found to often result in a short 
timeframe for reviewing notificati ons and compiling the submissions from various agencies.  The lack 
of harmonization of currency units between Members is found to render the analysis of Table DS:1 
notifications, and hence, the formulation of the questions, more difficult.  Likewise, the unit of 
measurement to be used in Table MA:2 notifications  is not specifically defined (e.g., head, kilograms 
net or gross weight, weight in grain/milk equivalent, etc.).  G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 19 
 
 
  2. Responding to questions posed by other Members 
45. Respondents recognize the need for Member particip ation in responding to questions in order 
to ensure that the process is beneficial to all.  Some have used the opportunity to elaborate on 
domestic policies and to show, thro ugh their responses, the importance of providing transparent and 
useful information.  The "responding" process has ge nerally yielded satisfactory results, except where 
the tight circumstances linked with limited institu tional and human capacity have hindered it.  
46. The elaboration of detailed replies is seen by most respondents as a unique opportunity to 
engage in a self-evaluation exercise in the cour se of which national policies and measures are 
examined, and compliance with the government's co mmitments under the WTO is reviewed.  Some 
respondents also observe that preparing responses im proves visibility of trading partners' concerns, 
expectations, and priorities and encourages each Memb er to review its agricultural trade policies and 
practices as well as legal and economic aspects from a much broader perspective.  That process is also conducive to a better understanding of  rules and regulations.  It even constitutes a crucial capacity 
building component used by some responde nts to train their junior officials. 
47. On process, respondents point out that a longe r timeframe should be afforded between the 
receipt of questions and the actual meeting of the Committee to allow the responding Member to 
elaborate on its responses.  Also, the questions s hould be made available in the WTO language used 
by the responding Member. 
IV. THE TOOL-BOX 
A. A
SSESSMENT OF EXISTING TOOLS  
48. Overall, the questions regarding awareness, usag e and helpfulness of existing tools produced 
high ratings, as can be seen from the graph below (ranked by increasing degree of awareness).  The 
lowest levels of awareness are registered with r espect to the existence of the working procedures of 
the Committee on Agriculture (document G/AG/1), a nd the availability of assistance by the staff of 
the Agriculture and Commodities Division (AGCD). 
 G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 20  
 
  GRAPH 8 -  AWARENESS , USAGE AND HELPFULNESS5 OF EXISTING TOOLS  
Per cent of respondents
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%71133121129104658
AWARENESS USAGE HELPFULNESS
 
 
KEY  CURRENTLY AVAILABLE TOOLS 
1 Members' WTO Schedules  
2 Members' Agricultural Supporting Tables 
3 Notification requirements and formats (G/AG/2 and Add.1) 
4 Notifications Handbook (WT/TC/NOTIF/AG/1) 
5 Assistance by AGCD staff 
6 Technical Assistance activities 
7 Members' notifications to the Committee on Agriculture (G/AG/N/-- series) 
8 Organization of Work and Working Procedures (G/AG/1) 
9 Room document - Members' status of compliance with notification obligations  
10 Room document - Questions posed by Members during the Review Process 
11 Members' written answers during the Review Process 
12 Summary Reports by the Secretariat (G/AG/R/-- series) 
13 Integrated Data Base (IDB) 
                                                      
5 Percentage of respondents, except for " helpfulness " where percentages are computed taking into 
account of respondent s having actually used the tool in question.  G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 21 
 
 
  1. WTO Members' Schedules  
49. The respondents point out that Members' Schedules are a useful tool to analyze notifications 
submitted in the Table MA:1, MA:2, MA:3-MA:5,  DS:1 and ES:1-2 formats against Members' 
commitments in the market access (tariff quot a coverage and volumes, SSG rights and product 
descriptions), domestic support (Current Total AMS vs. Annual and Final Bound Total AMS) and 
export subsidies (product coverage , scheduled export subsidy limits) and other scheduled terms and 
conditions.  The usefulness of the Consolidated Ta riff Schedules Database (C TS) as a reference for 
verification and analysis is also highlighted.  Wh en analyzing and reviewing notifications respondents 
indicate that they frequently refer to the CTS as a source of information.   
50. However, four developing country respondents ar e not aware of the availability of these tools.  
Other respondents indicate that Members' Schedules are sometimes difficult to  access online.  Some 
issues may also arise concerning the legal status of certain Schedules as well as the status of the various HS transposition exercises, and the state- of-play of the rectification and modification 
procedures initiated by certain Members. 
2. Agricultural Supporting Tables (" AGST tables ")  
51. Four developing country respondents are unaware  of such material, and one specifically 
requires assistance in order to fully appreciate the relevance and usefulness of AGST tables.  Although other respondents are aware of this tool, they seldom use it, mainly due to lack of direct accessibility.  A few respondents mention not being aware of the online availability of the AGST 
tables.
6  It is suggested that they be posted in an easily accessible section of the Members' website.   
3. Notification requirements and form ats (G/AG/2 and G/AG/2/Add.1)  
52. Only one developed country res pondent is unaware of the existence of the procedures and 
formats that were adopted by the Committee on Agri culture in 1995, and declares never having used 
them.  The two documents in question have neve rtheless formed the basis for understanding the 
notification requirements and filling in the template s.  They have provided a model to submit the 
relevant data in a harmonized manner.  They are generally found helpful by the respondents, although 
some demand that more detailed explanations accompany the technical references.  One developed 
country respondent finds the document particularly obsolete as not all Members organize the data to 
be notified as suggested in the established formats.   
4. Notifications Handbook (WT/TC/NOTIF/AG/1)  
53. Out of 36 respondents, five are unaware of the existence of the ITTC's Notifications 
Handbook, or have only recently become aware of it.   The document is generally perceived as 
obsolete, large, and cumbersome, but remains useful .  Suggestions to update certain sections, or 
develop some new modules, are advanced by bot h developed and devel oping country respondents 
with a view to turning the Handbook into a comprehe nsive reference or learning tool.  For example, 
additional technical details, and a section on how po licies and programmes are classified by Members, 
should be incorporated.  It is felt that the Handbook could also be made available electronically, as an 
e-learning tool, or in an electronic template format. 
                                                      
6 AGST material can be downloaded in pdf format via Documents Online( http://docsonline.wto.org/ ) G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 22  
 
  5. Assistance by AGCD staff   
54. AGCD staff extend assistance with respect to the preparation, verification, advice and 
processing of notifications.  The staff also play an important role in the preparation of the background 
material to facilitate the Review Process undertak en by the Committee on Agriculture at each regular 
meeting.  One fourth of the respondents is unaware  of this type of assistance (another two Members 
omitted to respond).  One Member in particular flag s that capital-based officials are not always aware 
of the type of support that is available from the WTO Secretariat.  Among those who are aware of the 
possibility to receive such assist ance, seven declare having never used it while another three 
respondents skipped that question altogether.  
55. Whenever advice has been sought in notificati on-related matters, the assistance extended by 
the AGCD staff has been appreciated.  It is c onsidered to be proactive, accommodating and 
competent, in particular as it relates to the prom pt screening of draft notifications and the online 
advice for further clarifications and improvements when inconsistencies are detected.  In one case, 
such assistance is reported as having been only "partly"  helpful. In general, respondents flag the need 
to intensify such assistance, notably through the establishment of problem-solving chat sessions on 
technical matters between Secretariat and Members.  
6. ITTC technical assistance activities 
56. One fourth of the respondents, both developed and developing country Members, is not fully 
aware of the technical assistance activities that are being scheduled and delivered by the ITTC in the 
area of agriculture in general, and in relation to notification obligations in particular.  Among those 
who are aware of such assistance, nine assert having never benefited from it.   
57. Those respondents who are aware, and use, ITTC technical assistance find it rather useful 
although not specifically focussed on the actual prep aration of notifications with an in-depth 
examination of agricultural and trade policies with a view to classifying them in accordance with the 
required formats.  Such respondents advocate therefore the intensification of technical assistance coupled with a better targeting towards notificati on-related issues.  Other suggestions include: the 
introduction of online courses on notification matters; an  annual notifications seminar to be held back-
to-back with regular Committee meetings;  and de dicated information sessions to analyze Members' 
notifications in each pillar of the Agreement on Agriculture.   
7. Members' notifications to the Committ ee on Agriculture (G/AG/N/-- series)  
58. Nearly all respondents (three Members declined to respond) are aware, and regularly use, 
other Members' notifications.  Notifications are regarded as useful references when examining policy 
changes, the evolution of expenditures, tariff quot a utilization, etc. prior to each meeting of the 
Committee on Agriculture.  In order to facilitate Memb ers' analysis, some respondents suggest that an 
online archiving notification system, analytical doc uments, and consolidated data series on notified 
information, be made availa ble online to all delegations. 
59. A number of improvements in the existing notification formats are also suggested by the 
respondents with a view to further harmonizing re porting between Members.  The following points 
are specifically mentioned in the questionnaires, i.e.:  
(a) the inclusion of HS codes in the domestic  support and export subsidy notifications;  
(b) the provision of a listing of supplying countries under global tariff quotas in 
Table MA:2 notifications; and   G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 23 
 
 
  (c) the addition of a listing of Members who se shipments have been affected by the 
additional duty under the price-based SSG. 
8. Organization of work and working procedures (G/AG/1)  
60. This document describes the organization of work  and the working procedures applying to the 
Committee on Agriculture.  It is distributed in hard  copy format to all delegations at each regular 
Committee meeting and is available online.  A substa ntial section of that document is devoted to the 
conduct of work under the Review Process.  Respons es to the questionnaire reflect that a number of 
developed and developing countries are not aware of  the existence of this document.  Among those 
who are fully aware of the Committee's procedures, f our have never consulted them in preparing for 
the Review Process.  In fact, only half of the res ponding delegations do.  Wh en this is the case, the 
rating shows that the document is cons idered to be very useful.    
9. Room document: Members' status of comp liance with notification obligations 
("Compliance document")  
61. This document shows each Member's compliance with its notification obligations since the 
entry into force of the WTO.  It is circulated in  hard copy format at each regular meeting of the 
Committee on Agriculture and is posted on the WTO Members' website.     
62. Three developing country Members are unawa re of the existence of the Compliance 
document and one did not supply any response.  W ithin the sample of "aware" respondents, another 
four developing country Members have never used it as a reference tool.  The actual users frequently 
consult the Compliance document.  They deem it a u seful tracking system that facilitates the Review 
Process as it presents an immediate blue-print of  those notifications that remain outstanding. 
Suggestions are that the Compliance document be more broadly shared and made public, including 
through circulation by the Secretariat as an official unrestricted document.  
10. Room document: Questions raised by Members during the Review Process  
63. This document compiles the full version of the qu estions to be raised by Members during the 
Review Process under Article 18.6 of the Agreement on Agriculture and in co nnection with individual 
notifications.  It is circulated in hard copy format and is posted on the Members' website.   
64. Two developing country Members remain unaware of the existe nce of this room document. 
Another two developing country Members did not supply any response.  Among the "aware" 
population, five developing country respondents have never used this tool, a nd two have not supplied 
any response or additional comments on usage.  Th e comments supplied in the survey appear to 
suggest that the capital-based officials do not seem to get hold of the document unless it is sent in hard 
copy format by the Geneva-based delegation.   
65. The actual population of "users", which represents  69 per cent of the original sample, finds 
the document extremely helpful in assisting delegati ons with the preparation of their own questions 
and answers.  However, the context in which the ques tions are posed is not always sufficiently clear to 
a few respondents, despite the fact  that the corresponding notification reference is indicated.  In the 
past, this document used to be handed out by the Secretariat in hard copy only, during the regular 
meetings.  Some respondents appreciate the current  policy to have the tool online on the Members' 
website.  They would even support maintaining all compilations on that site instead of permanently 
removing past documents.  As already stated above in relation to the Compliance document, there are 
also proposals to circulate the compilations of qu estions as official WTO documents, and to archive 
electronically past compilations since 1995.   G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 24  
 
  11. Room document: Members' written answers  
66. Written answers supplied by Members to the Secr etariat in electronic format are posted on the 
Members' website, and an announcement is made to th at effect by the Chairperson at each meeting of 
the Committee on Agriculture.   
67. Three developing country respondents are not aware of the document in question and one 
developing country is silent as regards awareness.   Around 72 per cent of respondents are aware of, 
and use, this tool, which they broadly consider as a useful reference for analysis.  While fully 
appreciating the temporary electronic availability of  such material on the Members' website, some 
regret that the answers supplied are somewhat uninf ormative.  As previously mentioned under section 
10 above, it is suggested that the compilations of  written answers be turned into official WTO 
documents; and that an online archiving system be developed so that such materials remain accessible 
on a permanent basis. 
12. Summary reports (G/AG/R/-- series)  
68. In accordance with the Committee's Rules of procedure
7, the records of the Committee on 
Agriculture's proceedings take the form of a su mmary report, prepared by the Secretariat, and 
circulated as an official WTO document.  The summary reports contain Members' questions and 
responses provided during the Review Process si nce 1995.  One developing country respondent 
indicates that it is not aware of the availability of this tool.  Despite full awareness, three developing 
country respondents flag that they have never used  these summary reports as a preparation tool for the 
Review Process, and another deve loping country does not supply an y response as far as usage is 
concerned.   
69. By and large, these summary reports are found to be exceptionally helpful in developing 
awareness of other Members' trade policies and dele gates' experience in analyzing notifications.  
Their relevance and usefulness would be enhanced if  they could be released in a relatively shorter 
timeframe after each Committee meeting, or even sent electronically to all agricultural attachés.  One 
respondent regrets, however, that the summaries some times fail to mention certain important details, 
without specifying which ones.   
13. The Integrated Data Base  (IDB)  
70. The IDB contains tariff and trade information as notified by each WTO Member.  The latest 
status of submissions to the IDB is reflected in  document G/MA/IDB/2/Rev.29 and Corr.1.  The IDB 
is disclosed to the general public at the HS-6 digit level through the Tariff Download Facility , but is 
fully available at tariff line level to all WTO Members, in particular through the Internet Analysis 
Facility  (IAF).  
71. One developing country respondent indicates not be ing aware of the availability of this tool.  
Although aware, four developing and one developed country respondents have never used it, and one 
additional developing country does not supply any r esponse as regards usage.  Potential barriers to 
full utilization of the IDB are cited by respondents, including:  difficulty of access; repeated changes 
in the password connections; and labor ious consultation process.  Nearly all of the users, representing 
80 per cent of the respondents, find the IDB helpful and appreciate the way it has been structured.  
Indeed, responses reveal that the applied tariff and tr ade data at tariff line level have been useful in 
reviewing Members' market access commitments; in analyzing the possible impacts of certain 
agricultural policy measures; and in preparing for the DDA negotiations.   
                                                      
7 WT/L/142.  G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 25 
 
 
  72. However, strong criticism is expressed about its obsolescence (reportedly, " two to four years 
behind ").  The lack of timely reporting by WTO Members on their own trade and tariff data clearly 
constrains the end-users' ability to undertake analys is.  There are suggestions to indicate hyperlinks to 
more recent public data sources, such as Eurostat , in order to supplement information gaps.  
Respondents also feel that IDB processing and extrac tion features, notably through the IAF, would be 
even more appreciated if they could deliver data reports organized in long-te rm time series.  Some 
form of  IDB and CTS-related technical assistance that would be specifically geared towards a better utilization of such tools in analyzing Members' no tifications, including online user support, are cited 
as suggestions for further improvement.  
B. S
UGGESTIONS FOR A NEW "TOOL-BOX" 
73. As regards other tools that Members envisage to enhance their capacity to prepare and/or 
analyze notifications, suggestions are made by ma ny, although not all, developed and developing 
country Members.   
74. Three-quarters of respondents consider that there is a need to improve dissemination of 
notifications and notification-rela ted information.  One develope d and eight developing country 
Members, however, believe that there is no such need.  Among the latter, one respondent remarks that 
the existing dissemination system " can be maintained ".  One respondent finds the current notification 
search too complicated for public an d private users, while a few other respondents highlight the need 
for better organization of the existing information. 
GRAPH 9 -   NEED TO IMPROVE DISSEMINATION OF NOTIFICATION -RELATED INFORMATION  
 
07142128
DEVELOPING 81 91
DEVELOPED 17NO YES NO RESPONSEnumber of respondents
 
 
 G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 26  
 
  75. Among those who foresee improvements, sugg estions range from enhancements in 
management and dissemination of data/informati on (through publications, soft copies, CDs) to 
various aspects of technical assistance (including on-s ite or online training, workshops and seminars).  
One respondent particularly stresses the need for th e timely circulation of information, data and 
reports while others advocate better electroni c dissemination of documentation, including an 
improved distribution system for notifications and an  early warning system as soon as notifications 
are circulated.  This would especially help Me mbers with limited resources and would serve as a 
reminder for all Members.   
1. Improvements to the existing tools 
76. It is noted that only once Members are fully aware of all the existing tools would it be 
possible to identify what improvements could be ma de.  Some respondents consider that many tools 
are already available and that simplifying existing tools would be more efficient than adding new 
ones.  It seems therefore that a good start woul d be to simplify and enhance information about 
existing tools to prepare notifications and improve accessibility.  
77. Suggestions are made to integrate all notificati on-related documents and tools described in the 
preceding section through the use of hyperlinks for ready access within a single webpage on the 
Members' website, and even to turn all room documen ts into official documents after a certain period 
of time after the Committee meeting.  One respondent  remarks that a brochure or booklet would be 
useful in enhancing knowledge about, and improving accessibility, to existing tools.  Likewise, a regular reminder of such tools as well as inform ation about online courses and CDs should be 
circulated to Members.   
2. Electronic submissions 
78. To streamline the submission process, one respondent suggests that notifications be 
constructed in such a way as to allow electronic data  transmission directly to the Central Registry of 
Notifications maintained by the Secretariat.  A nother suggestion is to move to a more convenient 
software than MS Word for preparing the notifica tions:  the formats contained in document G/AG/2 
could be easily replicated in spreadsheet format, which would constitute a significant improvement of 
procedures in one respondent's view.  Better softwa re should also allow Members to calculate the 
Current AMS and to capture the relationship between  all the necessary Supporting Tables of the Table 
DS:1 format. 
3. Improved distribution and early warning system 
79. Specific proposals range from the circulation of notifications, or alternatively, a listing of 
notifications, to Members by e-mail, to the estab lishment of a "notifications centre" whereby the 
agriculture notifications and data would be dissemi nated based on a distribution list of focal points.  
This latter mechanism would have the capacity to identify long overdue notifications while enhancing 
awareness of newly-circulated notifications via a "What's new" flag/section.  Members would no 
longer be required to download such documents .  Although there are divergences as regards the 
appropriate frequency of disseminati on of notification listings (i.e., weekly, fortnightly, monthly), the 
aims would be to gradually substitute, or reduce si gnificantly, the hard copies circulated to Members, 
unless a given delegation chooses otherwise, and to ma ximize the length of time available to review 
the notification, rather than reading the notifications that are circulated in hard copy, or waiting for the 
WTO Secretariat reminder or convening airgrams.   
80. Other suggestions include an online dissemina tion facility of relevant documents far in 
advance of the upcoming Committee on Agriculture meeting and an annual summary report of 
notifications, particularly highlighting tho se that are considered significant.    G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 27 
 
 
  4. Managing data/information 
81. The establishment of various databases featur es highly among respondents who see a need for 
better tools to help manage data/information, anal yze notifications and, in turn, enable a more 
efficient participation of Members in the Review Pr ocess.  It is suggested that notification-related 
information could also be used, if necessary, in other aspects of the WTO's work, including in other 
WTO bodies and committees, and the DDA negotiations.  
(a) Online archiving system 
82. There are suggestions for a better online archiving system although the envisaged scope and 
level of detail seem to vary between respondents:   
(a) establishment of a database system, especially for Members' notifications, room 
documents and Members' written answers, that would be similar to the SPS 
Information Management System (SPS-IMS) , which allows a retrieval of data 
classified by Member, measure and product;  
(b) re-creating the history of the Review Process in database format in the Members' only 
website.  This would involve the codificati on, indexation and retroactive and factual 
recording of all previous discussions.  A lighter version of such a system, in the form 
of Frequently Asked Questions  (FAQs) is also being suggested.  The main benefits 
would be: 
(i) user-friendly access to the history of the Review Process.  This could 
possibly include a condensed version of questions raised and answers 
supplied (similar to those now provided in Summary Reports of the Meeting, 
G/AG/R document series); 
(ii) availability of an analytical tool to assist Members in reviewing new 
notifications and to track the interventi ons made in the past on the relevant 
topics. 
(b) Data series and reports on notified information 
83. An online database on the basis of notified informa tion is cited as an efficient way to improve 
the dissemination of notification-related data.  The preparation of Member-specific data compilations 
is a resource intensive effort, and requires information on actual commitments and time series of notified data.  In order to simplify and improve the efficiency of the monitoring process, some 
respondents advocate the creation of a central databa se enabling Members to quickly extract reference 
information in time series for analytical purposes.   This database should contain information on 
exchange rates, inflation and other indicators to facilitate comparison between Members.  For 
example, details on current product-specific AMS by Member should be available.   
84. Alternatively, notified inform ation could be regularly compiled by the WTO Secretariat in 
paper format, similar to the documents previously issued in the TN/AG/S/-- series.  Furthermore, 
explanation sheets or executive summaries could be prepared to describe the notified domestic 
support programmes with specific examples being provided. 
85. A few respondents point to the need for update d information on trade flows and agricultural 
policies, notably through access to, and increased coll aboration with, internatio nal organizations (i.e. 
United Nations, World Bank, FAO, OECD) as well as greater availability of specific software for 
analysis or statistical modelling (e.g. GTAP).   G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 28  
 
  5. Technical assistance and training 
86. Some respondents flag that the final decision on the most appropriate form of technical 
assistance would need to follow cons ideration by Members of the present survey.  In addition, it is 
important to keep in mind that, upon the comple tion of the DDA negotiations, considerable further 
technical assistance will need to be designed and implemented in relation to the new notification 
obligations.  One respondent underlines that Memb ers will need to assume greater responsibility to 
notify in a timely and accurate manner, in view of the possible creation of new temporary mechanisms 
that can be invoked at short-notice.     
(a) Training/E-learning 
87. Several respondents highlight the need for trai ning of responsible staff and suggest that 
notification-specific training (with exercises) be  undertaken in various forms, including:   
(a) regional training courses or specialized workshops/seminars on preparation and 
analysis of notifications, with participa tion from capital-based officials responsible 
for notifications: respondents observe that training activities in the past have not 
focussed on the substantive preparation of th e notifications.  Hence, there is support 
for a regular workshop on notifications to be  convened back-to-back with the regular 
meeting of the Committee on Agriculture,  as a means to strengthen capacities to 
prepare/analyze notifications and preserve the know-how; 
(b) e-learning:  there seems to be a strong  demand for the setting up of an advanced 
online course on notifications to be placed on the Members' website.  
88. One respondent believes that workshops and e-learning would be sufficient to improve 
Members' capacity to prepare and/or analyze notifi cations, especially if such activities are carried out 
with the assistance of the Secretariat staff.  Hen ce, Members should consider ways to make a better 
and more effective use of existing training opportuniti es and tools rather than introducing new tools.   
(b) Notifications handbook 
89. One respondent considers that there is a need  for a manual on how to understand, prepare and 
analyze notifications.  Another suggests to upda te and expand the contents of the existing 
Notifications Handbook.  Details of the enhancements proposed so far are described in paragraph 53 
above.   
(c) Forum for mentoring/exchange of views 
90. Some respondents put forward suggestions for various mentoring initiatives or a system 
similar to that applied in the SPS Committee in orde r to facilitate the provision of technical assistance 
to developing countries.  In this framework, the setting up of "agriculture enquiry points" is also 
advocated although the responsibilities and functions of such  enquiry points are not outlined.  Another 
respondent envisages creating a network of organiza tions/officials responsible for preparation and 
analysis of notifications with participatio n and support from the WTO Secretariat.   
91. Proposals are also made to establish a consultation platform, or a permanent consultation 
mechanism, whereby capital-based and Geneva-based technical staff of Members having 
demonstrated active involvement in the Review Pr ocess would be encouraged to share their views, 
experience, or analytical expertise on specific them es, on a voluntary basis.  Transfer of knowledge 
between Members would occur during those sessions w ith a view to improving participation in the 
Review Process.     G/AG/GEN/85 
 Page 29 
 
 
  V. PRESERVING AND TRANSFERRING KNOW-HOW 
92. As regards whether Members have in place a system that would allow them to preserve the 
know-how related to the preparation/analysis of no tifications and the participation in the Review 
Process, most developed and half of developing country Members in the sample mention some kind 
of system, although many refer to it as "informal".  Among those not having a system in place, one 
respondent specifically acknowledges that it would be  vital to establish such a system and looks 
forward to learning from other Members' experiences in this area.   
93. Respondents consider that it would be useful  to be able to count on a reference and 
consultation system to assist with the prepara tion of notifications, especially where resources are 
scarce in developing country Members.  Getting fami liar with the issues, requirements and procedures 
requires time and even when agri cultural experts are involved in training activities, it does not fully 
help solving the problem.  While a detailed filling system may exist where new officials can seek and 
obtain information, there is often no manual to guide new staff.  Technical assistance and capacity building in various forms are therefore needed , including with cooperation or mentoring from 
Members, to develop a comprehensive system for the preparation and analysis of notified data.  
94. A number of respondents provide details of their experiences and efforts in institutional 
capacity building that are outlined below.  In general, it seems that the greatest focus is on documenting the sources of data and the process to  ensure that know-how can be preserved and 
transferred, and on building the necessary human resources capacity. 
A. O
N-THE-JOB TRAINING  
95. The transfer of knowledge mainly occurs on-th e-job.  Various forms of written guidelines 
serve to ensure that the preparation of notificati ons is not neglected during turnover of personnel in 
charge of notifications.  In some cases, a manual is  in place to help appointed staff proceed with the 
notification procedures.  The manual sets out the routine involved, including deadlines and division of labour, to prepare notifications, and the key elements  to look for in other Members' notifications.  
Guidance in preparing notifications can also be  provided through the formats used in previous 
submissions and the accompanying explanatory not es.  In one case, the officer responsible for 
preparing a notification leaves a detailed record  identifying any changes from the previous year, 
methodology and calculations, data sources and data series, and any explanatory notes that may be 
appropriate.  In this regard, a computerized system  containing notifications submitted in the past may 
be helpful for consultation purposes.   
96. On-the-job learning can involve mentoring by senior staff whereby a senior officer is working 
with a junior officer so that the latter gains prac tical understanding and experience.  To the extent 
possible, when staff change, a short training period is built-in so that the know-how can be transferred.  New staff may also be encouraged to attend seminars and e-learning courses.  
B. A
RCHIVING  
97. Some respondents observe that a documentation system can be valuable in preserving the 
necessary know-how although the scope of such a syst em varies.  Some only maintain an archive of 
previous submissions in hard and soft copies while others refer to internal documents which are used 
as references for the preparation and review of notif ications.  For example, one respondent maintains 
a database of all questions submitted and responses supplied in the Review Process, a tool favourably 
envisaged by respondents in paragra ph 82(b) above.  In addition, recent notifications are compared to 
the internal analysis of the previous ones whic h allows the identification of any changes.   G/AG/GEN/85 
Page 30  
 
  98. Respondents may also use spreadsheets or hard  copy files to keep track of changes 
implemented, hierarchy decisions on notificati on practices, follow-up tasks as well as explanatory 
notes for data entry.  In another case, an informal  e-system for the examination of key submissions, 
elaboration of questions and coordi nation of notifications is maintained.  While the system is believed 
to work well, it remains vulnerable to changes in personnel.  
C. E
STABLISHMENT OF A "WTO  UNIT " 
99. There are instances in which a special unit in re levant ministries is established to deal with 
WTO issues (e.g. notification obligations, trade polic y reviews).  Staff in such units (or divisions) 
engage in the preparation and analysis of notifica tions and, sometimes, participate in the Review 
Process in Geneva.  Permanent employment is reported to preserve know -how although postings 
abroad may hamper the retention of experience and expertise.  
100. As already highlighted in paragraphs 24 and 25 above, collaboration with/between various 
stakeholders is also an important aspect.  There are gains to be had from a direct contact with 
producer organizations in various agricultural sect ors and a close collaboration between relevant 
ministries (e.g. economy, customs, commerce, financ e and agriculture).  One respondent specifically 
mentions that it promotes inter-a gency involvement in the notifica tion/review process and solicits 
questions from a range of capital-based officials.   
  
__________  G/AG/GEN/85
 Page 31ANNEX 1  
GRAPH 10 -  FREQUENCY AND QUALITY OF PARTICIPATION IN THE  REVIEW PROCESS  
02468101214
DEVELOPING 4213611271
DEVELOPED 26Unsatisfactor yAverage Satisfactory Unsatisfactor yAverage Satisfactory Unsatisfactor yAverage Satisfactory Unsatisfactor y
NEVER RARELY SOMETIMES FREQUENTLYnumber of respondents