FAO focuses on helping member countries make the most of the Uruguay Round
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Global trade liberalization promises trade expansion and economic growth
for agriculture, forestry and fisheries, but not all countries are equally
placed to benefit from the new regime. Developing countries in particular
may face difficulties before they are able to fully reap the benefits of
freer global trade.
A new booklet, "FAO technical assistance and the Uruguay Round Agreements",
discusses the significance of the Uruguay Round Agreements for agriculture,
forestry and fisheries, reviews related technical assistance provided by
FAO in the past, and outlines specific areas in which the Organization
can use its considerable expertise to continue helping member countries
take advantage of current and potential export opportunities and minimize
possible negative repercussions.
In the Final Act of the Uruguay Round, signed at Marrakesh in April
1994, a large majority of countries agreed, for the first time ever, on
a set of rules to harmonize national and international agricultural policies.
They also agreed on adjustments to trade rules and practices, through various
trade agreements and decisions. The agreements and decisions relevant to
FAO's expertise and experience discussed in the new publication are:
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Agreement on Agriculture (AoA)
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Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS)
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Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT)
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Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS)
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Decision on Measures Concerning the Possible Negative Effects of the Reform
Programme on Least-Developed and Net Food-Importing Developing Countries
These aim to benefit countries by providing greater access to world markets
and curbing past practices that distorted both production and trade. But
in the short term some countries and regions may be adversely affected
by loss of markets and possible increases in prices of some products they
import. Most developing countries, and particularly the least-developed,
have neither the capacity nor the resources to face the challenges or capture
export opportunities flowing from the Uruguay Round. Many will require
technical assistance. The brochure highlights FAO's unique position in
international agricultural affairs, and its willingness to provide assistance
to those most in need.
Currently available in English, and soon to be published in Arabic,
French and Spanish, the booklet "FAO technical assistance and the Uruguay
Round Agreements" can be ordered from the FAO
Sales and Marketing Group, Information Division.
6 March 1998
Related FAO links:
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