Challenges in Russias WTO Accession: A U'S' Perspective

1
Challenges in Russias WTO Accession A U.S.
Perspective

• Pamela G. Quanrud
• Economic Minister Counselor
• U.S. Embassy
• Moscow, Russia

2
Agriculture Subsidies Standards

• No requirement to withdraw support for farmers
• Need to limit trade-distorting subsidies
• Protection through non-tariff barriers
  discourages investment and innovation

3
IPR Legislation Enforcement

• Lack of protection hurts innovation
• Commercialization of knowledge key to future
  growth
• Legislation good, but enforcement key

4
Legislation Technical Regulations

• Lions share of legislation already passed
• Still pending IPR, standards, licensing, state
  subsidies
• Russia to review 146 technical regulations by
  late 2006

5
WTO Accession In Russias Interest

• Doubles GDP/helps reform the economy
• Brings Russia into the Global system
• Improves living standards for Russians
• An opportunity Russia cant afford to miss

6
Process What remains?

• Conclude bilateral negotiations and complete
  Working Party Report
• Secretariat drafts Protocol of Accession and list
  of commitments Duma must ratify
• Ministerial Council approves

7
Russias Role in the WTO

• Accession means a seat at the table
• Bridge between Developing OECD blocs
• Coalition-building based on unique interests