Big areas of contention among trade ministers included Western suggestions that any new trade deal should include labor standards. Wealthy nations, and their labor unions, characterize cheap wages and shoddy working conditions in developing countries as an unfair trade practice. Many Asian and Latin American nations have been upset by the suggestion, saying they cannot afford quickly to conform to the standards of richer nations. The European Union trade commissioner, Pascal Lamy, has called labor the most difficult issue at these talks. Barshefsky voiced partial agreement.
Agricultural issues remain critical.
We welcome your feedback. All rights reserved.