1 Introduction to the Workshop Nupur Chowdhury 1 st – 3 rd May 2006 Workshop on WTO-related Issues for Government Officials in SAARC Region

2 TERI TERI - The Energy and Resources Institute is a developing country institute that is deeply committed to every aspect of sustainable development. Scope of Activities: Environment-friendly solutions to rural energy problems Regulatory policy of the Indian oil and gas sector Global climate development change issues Forest conservation efforts among local communities; Researching and developing cross sectoral linkages on a wide range of policy issues - on international trade, environment and sustainable

3 Profile of GALT Both research (policy analysis) and capacity building: Environmental standards: Various Issues and Concerns for India Implications of eco-labeling requirements for environmental purposes on market access for Indian exports Technology Transfer within international trade and environmental regime. Trade liberalization - impacts & opportunities for SMEs in the textile, leather and seafood sectors WTO Training program for capacity building of SAARC officials.

4 Introduction Training program on WTO-related issues for government officials in the SAARC region. Training Program has been initiated by TERI and supported by the British High Commission, India Comprehensive Training Program –Basic Training Module –Specific Training Module –Advanced Training Module

5 Objectives of the Programme To strengthen and build capacity of government officials within SAARCcountries on WTO related issues. Government officials are drawn from different ministries (not only Ministry of Commerce) but also Ministry from agriculture, law,environment and others. Increase coordination between various departments of the government and also contribute to identifying potential synergies and building on them at a regional level.

6 Training Modules Divided into three: Basic, Specific and Advanced –Basic: Introductory WTO course - government officials at the under secretary level or newly joined officials. –Specific: Issues which are unique to recent or aspiring WTO members. –Advanced: focus on Current negotiations and possible outcomes - Senior level government officials (e.g. Joint Secretary)

7 Issues addressed in the workshop Identification of issues : Three stage process –Extensive literature survey for identification of issues –Qualitative survey of stakeholders in SAARC countries –Brainstorming of Experts Advisory Committee

8 Workshop Format First Session: Inaugural Session Second session: Key issues in DDA and its implication for SAARC countries Third Session: Specific Negotiating Agenda Trade Facilitation Non-Tariff Barriers: Standards and Technical Regulations Non-Agriculture Market Access GATS Agriculture

9 Workshop Format (contd.) Session 4 : Development Issues in WTO Session 5: Regional Trade and Cooperation Analytical and political issues: Special focus on GI and tourism SAFTA negotiations Sessions have been divided into two parts Key speakers – overall perspective – coverage of issues Country speakers – individual country perspective

10 Thank You