| Author (Corporate) | European Commission: Press and Communication Service |
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| Series Title | Press Release |
| Series Details | IP/02/1892 (16.12.02) |
| Publication Date | 16/12/2002 |
| Content Type | News |
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The European Commission announced a proposal on 16 December 2002 for WTO negotiations on agriculture, calling for improved market opening and reduction of trade distorting support. The key elements in the Commission paper are proposals to cut import tariffs by 36%, to slash export subsidies by 45% and to reduce trade distorting domestic farm support by more than half (55%) - providing there is fair burden sharing from other developed countries in particular. The proposal also contains specific actions to give developing countries a better deal: duty-free and quota-free access for all farm exports from the world's poorest countries; rich countries to give access at zero duty to at least 50% of their imports from developing countries and a 'food security box' including measures to facilitate development and preserve key food security crops through a special safeguard. The proposal also re-emphasises the importance of non-trade concerns such as the environment, rural development and animal welfare. |
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| Source Link | Link to Main Source http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/02/1892&format=HTML&rapid=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en |
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| Subject Categories | Business and Industry |
| Countries / Regions | Europe |
