Trade and Environment : Focusing on the DDA Fisheires Subsidies Negotiations

Recognizing the increasing linkage and possible conflict between trade and environment, we analyze the trade and environment issues, focusing on the DDA fisheries subsidies negotiations, with a view to raising issues to be explored further. After reviewing development of the trade and environment issues at the GATT/WTO, we analyze the draft fisheries subsidies rules which was circulated in November 2007. In particular, we analyze the provisions on prohibited fisheries subsidies, general exceptions, special and differential treatment and dispute settlement. The issues raised include the possible inconsistency between disciplines on subsidies for port infrastructure and those for general infrastructure, the scope of activities eligible for the permissible subsidies for improving vessels, a need to introduce criteria on determining a Member’s status as a developing country, and special and differential treatment concerning burden of proof.