One could argue that out of fairness, all those other groups should be rewarded in the same way. This is obviously not an economically feasible strategy. Especially of concern are the effects that these policies have on other countries, in particular, developing countries. Since the EU does not have a good track record in supporting open agricultural trade, many are skeptical about the intentions of the EU regarding multifunctionality. Skeptics think that the proponents of multifunctionality might be more interested in preventing international competition than in creating public goods.
Many industrial countries protect their agricultural industries from foreign competition.
With the increased use of non-tariff trade barriers, one can understand many developing countries' frustration with the rich countries' attitude toward open trade. The EU might feel its farmers have a special role to play. The result is that those sectors able to wage enough domestic political influence will receive exemptions from competition and fair trade rules. The goal of the Uruguay Round and other trade negotiations was to move toward an open trading system with fair international competition that benefits consumers. The misconception of international trade as a zero-sum game is already hard to overcome, but to give rich countries another excuse to drag their feet in fulfilling their commitments under the Uruguay Round agreement holds up further progress.