WTO PUBLIC FORUM 2016
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Moderator
Denis Redonnet, Director for WTO, Legal Affairs and Trade in Goods, DG TRADE, European Commission
Notwithstanding its robustness and comprehensiveness, many have suggested that, in light of the technological and economic changes of the last few decades, the current WTO rulebook has a number of gaps. Designing new rules to address barriers faced by today's traders – including those linked to the integration in Global Value Chains or to unleashing the potential of the digital economy – would be particularly valuable, in particular for SMEs. Most importantly, these rules would support the development of the weakest WTO Members, which are highly affected by the lack of a level global trade playing field.
The working session will discuss existing gaps in WTO rules and how filling these gaps could help foster development. The session will also discuss whether existing RTAs represent a source of inspiration for new multilateral rules.
Speakers
- Arancha González, Executive Director, International Trade Centre (ITC)
- Sara Menker, Founder and CEO, Gro Intelligence
- Syed Tauqir Shah, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the WTO
- Omar Soudodi, Managing Director, Payfort
- Pierre Sauvé, Director of Program Development, World Trade Institute