Negotiations of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Doha 'Development' Round stalled at the end of July 2008 for a number of reasons. The question as to whether talks can (seriously) be revived remains open. It is often argued that the success of Doha would only benefit big developing countries like Brazil, India or China while small vulnerable economies, and particularly African countries, would lose out. This argument broadly follows the assumption that African countries do not have the capacities to benefit from broad tariff cuts on the export side but would see their export preferences eroded. On the import side they would become more vulnerable when further reducing tariffs.

 

Based on the latest draft modalities for agriculture and NAMA (non-agricultural market access), how would small vulnerable economies in Africa and elsewhere be affected? What are African interests at WTO and is there a joint African position? What is the role of South Africa and to what extent do South Africa’s interests mirror those of other African countries? This meeting investigated these issues.

Dr Christopher Stevens - Director of Programmes, International Economic Development Group, ODI

Dr Mareike Meyn - Research Fellow, International Economic Development Group, ODI