Deputy USTR Says Russia's WTO Accession is High Priority
On June 18, 2011, Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Sapiro spoke at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, where she stated that Russia's accession to the World Trade Organization is the U.S.' single highest priority in its economic relationship with Russia, and it is working to help Russia complete accession this year. However, there are still several WTO-inconsistent measures Russia needs to address.
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Highlights of Deputy USTR Sapiro's comments include:
Problems Remain with Russia's SPS & Investment Measures
The U.S. has had several productive meetings with the Russian government, in which the U.S. has consistently underscored its support for Russia’s accession. However, some of the toughest issues remain, such as those related to measures inconsistent with the WTO’s Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement and the agreement on Trade Related Investment Measures (TRIMs).
Changes to Domestic Legislation Necessary for Strong IPR Protection
Intellectual property rights (IPR) are an element of the WTO Rules, and joining the WTO, and adopting the laws necessary to meet its requirements, could help Russia create an environment conducive to growth and investment.
IPR protection requires a strong legal foundation, supported by government resources, and sustained enforcement actions. She noted continued areas of concern in this regard, such as changes to domestic legislation that may be necessary where piracy over the Internet has not yet been addressed successfully, etc. She also noted that takedowns of websites providing access to infringing content are essential.
(See ITT's Online Archives or 05/27/11 and 05/23/11 news, 11052723 and 11052301, for BP summaries of the U.S. stating it would work to conclude the process of Russia's WTO accession.
See ITT's Online Archives or 03/25/11 news, 11032502, for BP summary of President Obama affirming his support for Russia's accession to the WTO and establishment of Permanent Normalized Trade Relations (PNTR) with Russia.)