Call for Public Comment on World Trade Negotiations

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Mark Vaile today called for public comment on Australia's approach to the 6 th World Trade Organisation (WTO) Ministerial Conference to be held in Hong Kong, 13 to 18 December.

This is the fourth round of public consultations on Australia's approach to the Doha Round of world trade negotiations.

"Securing a successful and ambitious conclusion to the WTO Doha Round negotiations is Australia's highest trade policy priority," Mr Vaile said.

"Global trade reform has delivered, and will continue to deliver, immense benefits for Australia. The WTO's rules-based system provides transparency and increased predictability for all areas of world trade.

"According to the World Bank removing all barriers to merchandise trade and abolishing all trade-distorting agricultural subsidies would boost global welfare, particularly for developing countries, by up to $240 billion by 2015.

"The Government is working extremely hard - in all areas of the negotiations - to maintain the pressure on the key players to achieve substantial global trade reform. We need a successful outcome at the Hong Kong conference if we are to conclude the Round in 2006.

"Removing barriers to world agriculture trade remains the key and has to be the most immediate priority for all WTO members. But it is also essential that members achieve outcomes on market access for goods and services, and development-related issues to ensure the successful conclusion of the round.

"Seeking the views of Australians is an integral part of the Government's comprehensive consultation process for these negotiations. The opinions of all sectors of Australian society, including state and territory governments, industry, non-government organisations, community groups and the general public are important in helping to formulate Australia's position."

A background paper on the Doha Round negotiations can be obtained on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) website or by writing to: Trade Policy Section, DFAT, R.G. Casey Building, John McEwen Crescent, Barton, ACT 0221.

Public submissions should be typed. They can be lodged electronically at trade.consult@dfat.gov.au or in writing to: Trade Policy Section at the above mentioned address. Comments must be lodged by COB 21 October 2005.

Contacts: Richard Forbes (Mr Vaile's Office) 02 6277 7420, Matt Anderson (Departmental) 02 6261 1555