Search is not available for this dataset
filepath
string | file_id
string | text
string | word_count
int64 | character_count
int64 | root_directory
string | collection
string |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
WTO_99/Q_G_Tbtnot00_00-205.pdf
|
Q_G_Tbtnot00_00-205
|
. /.WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONG/TBT/Notif.00/205
26 April 2000
(00-1686)
Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade
NOTIFICATION
The following notification is being circulated in accordance with Article 10.6.
1. Member to Agreement notifying: CANADA
If applicable, name of local government involved (Articles 3.2 and 7.2):
2. Agency responsible: Department of Health
Agency or authority designated to handle comments regarding the notification shall be
indicated if different from above: National Enquiry Point
3. Notified under Article 2.9.2 [ X], 2.10.1 [ ], 5.6.2 [ ], 5.7.1 [ ], other:
4. Products covered (HS or CCCN where applicable, otherwise national tariff heading.
ICS numbers may be provided in addition, where applicable): Lysozyme
5. Title, number of pages and language(s) of the notified document: Proposed Amendment
to the Food and Drug Regulations (1122 – Lysozyme) (pages 1204-1206; English andFrench)
6. Description of content: Health Canada has received a submission to amend the Food and
Drug Regulations to provide for the use of a new enzyme, lysozyme obtained from egg
white, in the production of medium-and long-term ripening cheese. The use of lysozyme
would prevent gas formation as a result of butyric acid fermentation due to the presence of
the bacteria of the Clostridium species, particularly Clostridium tyrobutyricu m. The
formation of gas produces undesirable effects in texture, unacceptable tastes and smells andcauses breakage of the cheese block.
Extensive studies have determined the safety of the use of lysozyme from egg white in
cheese production. In addition, data have demonstrated that lysozyme is efficacious in
preventing gas formation during cheese production and provides a better quality of cheese.
At the present time, there is no provision for the use of this particular enzyme in the Food
Additive Tables under Division 16 of the Food and Drug Regulation s. Therefore, it is
proposed to amend the Regulations to include the use of lysozyme from egg white in cheese
production at a level of use consistent with good manufacturing practice.
Because lysozyme is obtained from egg white, concerns have been raised regarding
potential adverse effects to sensitive individuals allergic to eggs. Therefore, the proposed
amendment includes a labelling requirement for manufacturers using lysozyme duringcheese production. The presence of this enzyme would have to be declared in the list of
ingredients in order to inform consumers of the presence of egg by-product in these
particular cheeses. This labelling requirement would apply to both domestic and imported
products.
7. Objective and rationale, including the na ture of urgent problems where applicable:
Protection of human healthG/TBT/Notif.00/205
Page 2
8. Relevant documents: Canada Gazette, Part I, 15 April 2000
9. Proposed date of adoption:
Proposed date of entry into force: }Not stated
10. Final date for comments: 29 June 2000
11. Texts available from: National enquiry point [ X] or address, e-mail and telefax
number of the other body:
| 467 | 3,104 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/s_G_SPS_NUSA120A1.pdf
|
s_G_SPS_NUSA120A1
|
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/SPS/N/USA/120/Add.1
20 de julio de 1998
(98-2859)
Comité de Medidas Sanitarias y Fitosanitarias Original: inglés
NOTIFICACIÓN
Addendum
Por la presente, se distribuye la comuni cación siguiente de los Estados Unidos.
_______________
La Administración de Productos Alimenticios y Farmacéuticos publicó el 24 de abril de 1998
en el Registro Federal un proyecto de norma sobre elaboración e importación de jugos de frutas o de
legumbres y hortalizas y otros jugos en condiciones de inocuidad e higiene, que comunicó a la OMCen un documento con la signatura G/SPS/N/USA/120. La Administración ha recibido una serie de
peticiones de ampliación del plazo de presentación de observaciones, que expiraba en un principio
el 8 de julio de 1998 (fecha de este anuncio de ampliación del Registro Federal), pero acepta
prorrogarlo hasta el 7 de agosto de 1998 para atender esas solicitudes.
__________
| 140 | 924 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_Jobs_Ext99_3978R6.pdf
|
S_Jobs_Ext99_3978R6
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/R_G_SCM_N48HKG.pdf
|
R_G_SCM_N48HKG
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEG/SCM/N/48/HKG
30 mars 1999
(99-1311)
Comité des subventions et des
mesures compensatoiresOriginal: anglais
SUBVENTIONS
Notifications de mise à jour présentées conformément à l'article XVI:1
du GATT de 1994 et à l'article 25 de l'Accord sur les subventions
et les mesures compensatoires
HONG KONG, CHINE
Le Bureau des affaires économiques et commerciales de Hong Kong a fait parvenir au
Secrétariat la communication ci-après, datée du 22 mars 1999.
_______________
J'ai le plaisir d'informer le Comité que Hong Kong, Chine ne maintient aucune subvention
devant être notifiée au titre de l'article XVI:1 du GATT de 1994 et de l'article 25.2 de l'Accord sur les
subventions et les mesures compensatoires.
__________
| 111 | 747 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_WT_PRESS_176.pdf
|
R_WT_PRESS_176
|
00-1685 À SUIVRECOMMUNIQUÉ
DE PRESSE
PRESS/176
26 avril 2000
LANCEMENT DU QUATORZIÈME STAGE DE
POLITIQUE COMMERCIALE DE L'OMC
Le quatorzième stage de politique commerciale de l'OMC, qui est présenté en espagnol, a été
ouvert aujourd'hui à Genève par M. Miguel Rodriguez Mendoza, Directeur général adjoint de l'OMC.
Au nom du Directeur général, M. Mike Moore, M. Rodriguez a souhaité la bienvenue aux
24 participants venant de 20 Membres et observateurs de l'OMC et du secrétariat d'un groupement
d'intégration régionale.
Dans sa déclaration de bienvenue, M. Rodriguez a mis en lumière quatre éléments qui
différencient le système commercial multilatéral actuel administré par l'OMC du système du GATT
en vigueur jusqu'en 1994: i) une nouvelle configuration de l'organisation dont plus des deux tiers des
Membres sont des pays en développement et des économies en transition; ii) une plus grande
couverture des mesures de politique générale, y compris celles qui relevaient auparavant uniquementde la compétence nationale; iii) un ensemble commun d'obligations contraignantes pour tous les
Membres, n'empêchant pas un traitement spécial et différencié en faveur des pays en développement;
et iv) un mécanisme amélioré de règlement des différends.
Les stages de formation visent à amener les participants à approfondir leurs connaissances sur
les questions de politique commerciale, le fonctionnement du système commercial multilatéral et les
travaux de l'Organisation mondiale du commerce. Ils portent aussi sur les dispositions des accords
issus des négociations commerciales multilatérales du Cycle d'Uruguay ainsi que sur les droits et
obligations des Membres de l'OMC. Présentés en anglais deux fois par an et en espagnol et en
français tous les deux ans, ils s'adressent à des fonctionnaires de pays/territoires douaniers endéveloppement, de pays/territoires douaniers moins avancés et d'économies en transition Membres ou
non de l'OMC.
Les stages ont une orientation pratique et sont destinés à aider les participants, qui ont déjà
des responsabilités dans la formulation et la conduite de la politique de commerce extérieur au sein deleurs propres administrations, à s'acquitter plus efficacement de leurs fonctions, et à encourager une
participation plus active et plus efficace de leur pays au système commercial multilatéral. Outre une
série de conférences sur les règles de l'OMC, le programme comprend la participation à des
séminaires et à des discussions de groupe, un atelier sur les techniques de négociation et des
simulations sur la conduite des négociations commerciales et le règlement des différends
commerciaux. Les participants assistent aussi à des réunions officielles.PRESS/176
Page 2/3
À SUIVREPendant le stage, les participants effectuent un voyage d'étude à l'étranger d'une semaine ainsi
que d'autres, plus courts, en Suisse, comprenant des visites à des institutions et à des entreprises liéesau commerce extérieur. L'Espagne sera le pays d'accueil du voyage d'étude à l'étranger organisé à
l'intention des participants au quatorzième stage. Outre des fonctionnaires du Secrétariat de l'OMC,
de nombreux conférenciers, notamment des hauts fo nctionnaires de délégations gouvernementales et
d'organisations internationales ainsi que des universitaires sont invités à prendre la parole devant les
participants.
Le stage durera 12 semaines pendant lesquelles les participants, qui sont tous des
fonctionnaires responsables des questions commerciales dans des pays en développement, prendront
part à des conférences, des ateliers, des voyages d'étude et des simulations portant sur les Accords de
l'OMC et les questions connexes. Les participants au quatorzième stage de politique commerciale
viennent de l'Argentine, de la Bolivie, du Chili, de la Colombie, de Cuba, d'El Salvador, de l'Équateur,
du Guatemala, de la Guinée-Bissau, de la Guin ée équatoriale, du Honduras, du Mozambique, du
Nicaragua, du Panama, du Paraguay, du Pérou, de la République dominicaine, de la Thaïlande, de
l'Uruguay, du Venezuela et du Secrétariat du Mercosur.
Le quatorzième stage de politique commerciale de l'OMC est le troisième à être présenté en
espagnol depuis la création de l'OMC en 1995. L'an 2000 marque le quarante-cinquième anniversairedes stages de formation organisés par l'OMC et son prédécesseur, le GATT. Depuis 1955, le
GATT/l'OMC a organisé 98 stages de formation ordinaires à l'intention de plus de
1 800 fonctionnaires de plus de 160 pays ou territoires douaniers.PRESS/176
Page 4
À SUIVRELISTA DE PARTICIPANTES/LISTE DES PARTICIPANTS
Argentina Sr. Luis Ariel CASTILLO, Secretario de Embajada y Cónsul de 1era. clase,
Dirección de Asuntos Económicos Multilaterales, Ministerio de Relaciones
Exteriores, Comercio Internacional y Culto, Buenos Aires.
Bolivia Sra. Norah VELASCO ORELLANOS, Jefe de la Unidad de Acuerdos,
Vice-Ministerio de Inversión y Privatización, Ministerio de Comercio
Exterior e Inversión, Edificio Palacio de Comunicación, La Paz.
Chile Sr. Felipe Eugenio LOPEANDIA WIELANDT, Asistente, Departamento de
Servicios, Inversiones y Transporte Aéreo, Dirección General de Relaciones
Económicas Internacionales, Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores, Santiago.
Colombia Sr. Alberto LORA AGUANCHA, Asesor, Subdirección de Relaciones de
Integración y Organismos Multilaterales, Ministerio de Comercio Exterior,
Bogotá.
Sr. Hugo Gilberto MARÍN BLANCO, Jefe , División de Investigación, Instituto
Colombiano de Comercio Exterior -INCOMEX, Bogotá
Cuba Srta. Rebeca Gertrudis GONZÁLEZ LÓPEZ, Especialista en Política Comercial,
Dirección de Organismos Internacionales, Ministerio de Comercio Exterior,Habana.
Ecuador Sr. Segundo Humberto JIMÉNEZ, Consejero del Servicio Exterior, Dirección de
Integración, Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores, Quito.
El Salvador Sr. Francisco Alberto LIMA MENA, Subdirector de Política Comercial y Asesor
del Despacho Vice-Ministerial, Dirección de Política Comercial, Ministerio
de Economía, San Salvador.
Guatemala Srta. Mónica Dessiree GUERRA GARRIDO, Consultora en Comercio Exterior,
Acceso a Mercados, Área de Política Comercial, Unidad de Políticas e
Información Estratégica, Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y
Alimentación, Ciudad Guatemala.
Guinea -
BissauSr. Luis Filipe ARAÚJO, Director de la Inspección Comercial, Secretaría del
Estado de Comercio de la Industria, Turismo y Artesanado, Dirección
General del Comercio, Turismo y Artesanado, Bissau.
Guinea
EcuatorialSr. Wenceslao OBIANG MENGUE, Jefe de Sección de Comercio Exterior,
Dirección General de Comercio, Ministerio de Industria, Comercio y
Promoción de Pequeñas y Medianas Empresas, Malabo.
Honduras Sr. Johel Nectalí ROMERO, Consejer o Legal, Integración Económica y Política
Comercial, Ministerio de Industria y Comercio, Tegucigalpa.
Mercosur Sr. Carlos Eduardo PÉREZ DEL CAST ILLO, Técnico Contable, Sector Recursos
y Servicios, Secretaría Administrativa del MERCOSUR, Montevideo,UruguayPRESS/176
Page 5
Mozambique Sr. Ribeiro Carlos JUNOT, Jefe, Departamento de Relaciones Internacionales,
Ministerio de la Industria, Comercio y Turismo, Maputo.
Nicaragua Sr. José Abraham MORENO, Respons able de Departamento, Departamento de
Prácticas Internacionales de Comercio, Ministerio de Fomento, Industria y
Comercio, Managua.
Srta. Urania RAUDEZ OBANDO, Analista Económico de Comercio Exterior,
Dirección de Organismos Internacionales, Ministerio de Fomento, Industria y
Comercio, Managua.
Panamá Srta. Mara Imelda PARDO BARAHONA, Economista Negociador, Dirección
Nacional de Negociaciones Comerciales, Vice-Ministerio de Comercio
Exterior, Ministerio de Comercio e Industrias, Panamá.
Paraguay Sra. Gilda Susana ARRÉLLAGA VELILLA, Directora de Negociaciones
Multilaterales, Subsecretaría de Integración, Ministerio de Integración,
Asunción.
Perú Sr. Pedro Antonio BRAVO CARRANZA, Segundo Secretario, Departamento de
Coordinación de APEC, Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores, Lima.
República
DominicanaSrta. Isabel Antonia PADILLA ROMÁN, Ministro Consejero, División Europea,
Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores, Santo Domingo.
Tailandia Srta. Kaewta SASIVANIJ, Economista , Departamento de la Economía Política
del Comercio, Ministerio del Comercio, Bangkok.
Uruguay Sra. María Ramona FRANCO OXLEY, Secretario de Primera del Servicio
Exterior, Dirección Organismos Económicos Internacionales, Ministerio de
Relaciones Exteriores, Montevideo.
Venezuela Sr. Luis Rafael ARRIAGA CARRILLO, Director General de Planificación
Políticas, Vice-Ministerio de la Agricultura y la Alimentación, DirecciónGeneral de Planificación y Políticas, Ministerio de la Producción y el
Comercio, Caracas.
Sr. Luis Alberto RUSSIÁN CARRASQUEL, Director, Dirección de Normativas
del Mercado, Dirección General de Comercio Interior, Ministerio de la
Producción y el Comercio, Caracas.
FIN
| 1,203 | 8,829 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_IP_N_1BRN1.pdf
|
S_IP_N_1BRN1
|
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIO IP/N/1/BRN/1
15 de junio de 2004
(04-2587)
Consejo de los Aspectos de los Derechos de Propiedad
Intelectual relacionados con el Comercio Original: inglés
NOTIFICACIÓN DE LEYES Y REGLAMENTOS DE CONFORMIDAD
CON EL PÁRRAFO 2 DEL ARTÍCULO 63 DEL ACUERDO
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
La siguiente comunicación, de 22 de noviem bre de 2001, se distribuye a petición de la
Delegación de Brunei Darussalam.
_______________
De conformidad con el párra fo 2 del artículo 63 del Acuerdo sobre los Aspectos de los
Derechos de Propiedad Intelectual relacionados con el Comercio (ADPIC) y los procedimientos
establecidos por el Consejo de los ADPIC en noviembre de 1995, Brunei Darussalam notifica al
Consejo por el presente documento las leyes y reglamentos relativos a las esferas abarcadas por el Acuerdo. En cumplimiento del procedimiento acord ado, se ha presentado la mayoría de los textos a
que se hace referencia en los anexos I y II; lo s documentos restantes se not ifican remitiendo a la
colección de leyes de la Organización Mundial de la Propiedad Intelectual, de conformidad con la
Decisión del Consejo de los ADPIC contenida en el documento IP/C/2.
- Las "principales leyes y reglamentos dedicados a la propiedad intelectual" se
presentan en el idioma original (inglés) y están enumerados en el anexo I.
- Las "otras leyes y reglamentos" se presenta n en el idioma original (inglés) y están
enumerados en el anexo II.
- Respuestas a la lista de cuestiones sobre la observancia.
1
1 Véase el documento IP/N/6/BRN/1.
IP/N/1/BRN/1
Página 2
ANEXO I
PRINCIPALES LEYES Y REGLAMENTOS DEDICADOS
A LA PROPIEDAD INTELECTUAL
- Decreto de Patentes de 1999 (pendiente de entrada en vigor).2
- Decreto de Derecho de Autor de 1999 (entrada en vigor: 1º de mayo de 2000).3
- Capítulo 98 de la Ley de Marcas de Fábrica o de Comercio (entrada en vigor: 1º de junio
de 2000), con inclusión de su Reglamento de 2000 (entrada en vigor: 1º de junio de 2000) y
el Reglamento sobre Marcas de Fábrica o de Comercio (importación de mercancías
infractoras) de 2000 (entrada en vigor: 1º de junio de 2000). 4
- Decreto de Dibujos y Modelos Industriales de 1999 (entrada en vigor: 1º de mayo de 2000).5
- Reglamento de Dibujos y Modelos Industriales de 2000 (entrada en vigor: 1º de mayo
de 2000). 6
- Decreto de Esquemas de Trazado de 1999 (entrada en vigor: 1º de mayo de 2000).7
2 Véase el documento IP/N/1/BRN/P/1.
3 Véase el documento IP/N/1/BRN/C/1.
4 Véase el documento IP/N/1/BRN/T/1.
5 Véase el document o IP/N/1/BRN/D/1.
6 Véase el document o IP/N/1/BRN/D/2.
7 Véase el documento IP/N/1/BRN/L/1.
IP/N/1/BRN/1
Página 3
ANEXO II
OTRAS LEYES Y REGLAMENTOS8
Título
Fecha de adopción y de
entrada en vigor
Breve descripción
Derecho de autor y derechos conexos
Decreto de Emergencia (Derecho de Autor)
de 1999 .
Entrada en vigor: 1º de mayo de 2000.
Marcas de fábrica o de comercio
Decreto de Emergencia (Marcas de Fábrica o de
Comercio) de 1999 .
Entrada en vigor: 1º de junio de 2000.
Reglamento de Marcas de Fábrica o de
Comercio, 2000 . Se establecen procedimientos relativos al
registro de marcas de fábrica o de comercio, con inclusión de derechos, formularios y clasificaciones.
Dibujos y modelos industriales
Decreto de Emergencia (Dibujos y Modelos
Industriales) de 1999 .
Entrada en vigor: 1º de mayo de 2000.
Reglamento de dibujos y modelos industriales
de 2000 . De conformidad con lo dispuesto en el
artículo 77 del Decreto de Dibujos y Modelos Industriales de 1999, se establece el procedimiento de solicitud, con inclusión de derechos, etc.
8 Se notificarán los textos de leyes y reglamentos ad icionales. En cuanto la Secretaría de la OMC
reciba tales textos, se publicará un addendum al presente documento. IP/N/1/BRN/1
Página 4
Título
Fecha de adopción y de
entrada en vigor
Breve descripción
Patentes (incluida la protección de obtenciones
vegetales)
Ley de Invenciones, capítulo 72 .
Esquemas de trazado (topografías) de los
circuitos integrados
Ninguna.
Prescripciones especiales relacionadas con las
medidas en frontera
Reglamento sobre Marcas de Fábrica o de
Comercio (importación de mercancías infractoras)
de 2000 Procedimiento para solicitar al organismo de
control aduanero, de conformidad con el
artículo 82 de la Ley de Marcas de Fábrica o de Comercio, la retención de mercancías infractoras.
__________
| 710 | 4,699 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_WT_DS_34-3.pdf
|
S_WT_DS_34-3
|
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIO WT/DS34/3
15 de junio de 1998
(98-2420)
TURQUÍA - RESTRICCIONES APLICADAS A LAS IMPORTACIONES
DE PRODUCTOS TEXTILES Y PRENDAS DE VESTIR
Constitución del Grupo Especial establecido a solicitud de la India
Nota de la Secretaría
1. En su reunión del 13 de marzo de 1998, el Órgano de Solución de Diferencias (OSD)
estableció un Grupo Especial en respuesta a la solicitud presentada por la India (WT/DS34/2), de
conformidad con lo dispuesto en el párra fo 1 del artículo 6 del ESD (WT/DSB/M/43).
2. En esa reunión, las partes convinieron en que el Grupo Especial se estableciera con el
mandato uniforme. Por lo tanto, el mandato del Grupo Especial es el siguiente:
"Examinar, a la luz de las disposiciones pe rtinentes de los acuerdos abarcados que ha
invocado la India en el documento WT/DS34/2, el asunto sometido al OSD por la India en ese
documento y formular conclusiones que ayuden al OSD a hacer las recomendaciones o dictar
las resoluciones previstas en dichos acuerdos."
3. El 11 de junio de 1998, el Grupo Especial quedó constituido con la composición siguiente:
Presidente: Embajador Wade Armstrong Miembros: Dr. Luzius Wasescha
Profesor Robert E. Hudec
4. Los Estados Unidos; Filipinas; Hong Kong, China; el Japón y Tailandia se han reservado el
derecho a participar como terceros en el procedimiento del Grupo Especial.
__________
| 223 | 1,426 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_TBTNOT96_96-397.pdf
|
R_G_TBTNOT96_96-397
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE G/TBT/Notif.96.397
14novembre 1996
DUCOMMERCE
(96-4848)
Comité desobstacles techniques aucommerce
NOTIFICATION
Lanotification suivante estcommuniquée conformément àl'article 10.6.
1. Membre del'Accord adressant lanotification: SUISSE
Lecaséchéant, pouvoirs publics locaux concernés (articles 3.2et7.2):
2. Organisme responsable: Office fédéral demétrologie
L'organisme oul'autorité désigné pour s'occuper desobservations concernant la
notification peutêtreindiqué s'ilestdifférent del'organisme susmentionné:
3. Notification autitredel'article 2.9.2 [X],2.10.1 [],5.6.2 [],5.7.1 [],autres:
4. Produits visés (lecaséchéant, position duSHoudelaNCCD, sinon position dutarif
douanier national. Lesnuméros del'ICSpeuvent aussi êtreindiqués, lecaséchéant):
Biens mesurables préemballés; mesure ducontenu desbouteilles
5. Intitulé, nombre depages etlangue(s) dutexte notifié: Ordonnance surladéclaration du
contenu
6. Teneur:
Prescriptions concernant lesproduits préemballés
L'ordonnance notifiée s'applique àtouslesbiens mesurables, c'est-à-dire auxbiens dont
leprixestdirectement proportionnel àlaquantité nettevendue. Principaux points:
-Lesinstruments demesure pourlavente directe aupublic doivent êtrecontrôlés.
-Lecontenu netdoitêtreindiqué surlesemballages.
-Lavaleur moyenne ducontenu delaproduction doitêtresupérieure ouégale àla
valeur indiquée.
-Unemballage peutprésenter undéfaut deremplissage correspondant auplusà
l'erreur maximale tolérée.
-L'organe compétent contrôle lesproduits préemballés austade delaproduction ou
del'importation parl'application d'uneméthode statistique.
Lesprescriptions techniques etlesméthodes statistiques sontpleinement compatibles avec
lalégislation européenne. Desdispositions prévoient lareconnaissance demarques de
conformité officielles étrangères.
./.G/TBT/Notif.96.397
Page2
7. Objectif etjustification: Lesprincipaux éléments dudispositif sontenplace depuis 1972.
Larévision estdestinée àsimplifier etàclarifier letexte etàl'harmoniser entièrement
aveclalégislation européenne.
8. Documents pertinents: L'ordonnance estbasée surlesdispositions del'article 11dela
Loifédérale surlamétrologie (9juin1977, SR941.20).
9. Dateprojetée pourl'adoption:
Dateprojetée pourl'entrée envigueur: }1erjuillet 1997
10. Datelimite pourlaprésentation desobservations: 8janvier 1997
11. Entité auprès delaquelle letexte peutêtreobtenu: point national d'information [X]ou
adresse etnuméro detéléfax d'unautre organisme:
| 229 | 2,466 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_TPR_S91-0.pdf
|
Q_WT_TPR_S91-0
|
RESTRICTEDWORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONWT/TPR/S/91
24 October 2001
(01-5182)
Trade Policy Review Body
TRADE POLICY REVIEW
SLOV AK REPUBLIC
Report by the Secretariat
This report, prepared for the second Trade Policy Review of the
Slovak Republic, has been drawn up by the WTO Secretariat on its own
responsibility. The Secretariat has, as required by the Agreement establishing
the Trade Policy Review Mechanism (Annex 3 of the Marrakesh Agreement
Establishing the World Trade Organization), sought clarification from the
Government of the Slovak Republic on its trade policies and practices. Any
technical questions arising from this report may be addressed to
Mr. Willy Alfaro (tel. 739 53 72) or Mr. Clemens Boonekamp (tel. 739 52 26).
Document WT/TPR/G/91 contains the policy statement submitted by the
Government of the Slovak Republic.
Note: This report is subject to restricted circulation and press embargo until the end of the meeting
of the Trade Policy Review Body on the Slovak Republic.Slovak Republic WT/TPR/S/91
Page iii
CONTENTS
Page
SUMMARY OBSERVATIONS vii
(1) R ECENT ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE AND OUTLOOK vii
(2) T RADE AND INVESTMENT POLICY FRAMEWORK vii
(3) D EVELOPMENTS TRADE AND TRADE -RELATED MEASURES ix
(4) S ECTORAL DEVELOPMENTS xi
I. ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 1
(1) B ACKGROUND 1
(2) R ECENT ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE 2
(i) Fiscal policies 4(ii) Exchange rate and monetary policies 4(iii) Foreign debt and capital flows 6(iv) Structural changes 6
(3) T
RADE PERFORMANCE 8
(i) Trade patterns 8
(4) O UTLOOK 11
II. DEVELOPMENTS IN TRADE AND INVESTMENT POLICY 13
(1) O VERVIEW 13
(2) I NSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK 13
(i) Institutional structure 13(ii) Policy formulation and implementation 15(iii) Transparency and openness of decision making 16(iv) Main laws and regulations 18
(3) D
EVELOPMENTS IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 19
(i) World Trade Organization 19
(ii) Regional agreements 20(iii) Bilateral agreements 26(iv) Unilateral tariff preferences 27
(4) D
EVELOPMENTS IN FOREIGN INVESTMENT 27
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE 31
(1) I NTRODUCTION 31
(2) M EASURES DIRECTLY AFFECTING IMPORTS 32
(i) Customs procedures 32(ii) Tariffs 35(iii) Import surcharge and balance-of-payments measures 43(iv) Indirect taxes, customs fees, and other charges 43
(v) Tariff quotas 44
(vi) Trade prohibitions and sanctions 46(vii) Import licensing and quantitative restrictions 46(viii) Anti-dumping and countervailing actions 47(ix) Safeguard actions 47
(x) Standards and other technical requirements 49WT/TPR/S/91 Trade Policy Review
Page iv
Page
(xi) Government procurement 53
(xii) Performance and local-content requirements 54(xiii) State trading enterprises 54(xiv) Measures implemented in exporting countries 54
(xv) Other measures 54
(3) M EASURES DIRECTLY AFFECTING EXPORTS 55
(i) Duties, taxes, and minimum export prices 55
(ii) Export prohibitions, quotas, and licensing 55
(iii) Export subsidies 55(iv) Export finance, insurance, and guarantees 57(v) Export promotion and marketing assistance 58(vi) Customs-free zones 59(vii) Other measures 59
(4) O
THER MEASURES AFFECTING PRODUCTION AND TRADE 59
(i) State aid 59(ii) State-owned enterprises and privatization 66(iii) Competition policy 69(iv) Price controls and price support marketing arrangements 70
(v) Protection of intellectual property rights 71
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR 76
(1) O
VERVIEW 76
(2) A GRICULTURAL AND OTHER PRIMARY PRODUCTS 76
(i) Policy and assistance trends 78(ii) Sectoral policies and trade developments 86
(3) M
INING AND ENERGY 90
(i) Mining 90(ii) Energy 90
(4) M
ANUFACTURING 92
(i) Policy trends 92(ii) Sectoral policies and trade developments 93
(5) S
ERVICES 99
(i) Financial sector 100(ii) Telecommunications 104(iii) Transportation 106(iv) Tourism 108
REFERENCES 109
APPENDIX TABLES 111Slovak Republic WT/TPR/S/91
Page v
Page
CHARTS
I. ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
I.1 Merchandise trade by partner, 1995 and 2000 9
I.2 Merchandise trade by commodity (SITC-1 digit), 1995 and 2000 10
II. DEVELOPMENTS IN TRADE AND INVESTMENT POLICY
II.1 Ministries responsible for trade in goods 17
II.2 Ministries responsible for trade in services 17II.3 Foreign direct investment, by sector 1999 29II.4 Foreign direct investment, by source 1999 29
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE
III.1 Frequency distribution of MFN tariffs, 1995 and 2001 37
III.2 Applied MFN tariffs 1995 and 2001 and bound rates 2001, by HS section 38III.3 Tariff escalation by 2-digit ISIC industry, 2001 39
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTORIV.1 Sectoral composition of GDP, current prices, 1994 and 2000 77
IV.2 Mesures of agricultural support, 1986-88 and 1995-2000 82
IV.3 Components of agricultural assistance, 1986-88 and 1998-2000 83
IV.4 Agricultural assistance by commodity, 1995 and 1998-2000 85IV.5 Indicators of industrial activity, 1989-98 94
TABLES
I. ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
I.1 Main economic and social indicators 1
I.2 Economic performance, 1995-2001 3
I.3 World Bank projections, 2001-05 11
II. DEVELOPMENTS IN TRADE AND INVESTMENT POLICYII.1 Main trade-related legislation 18III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE
III.1 Key features of the Slovak MFN tariff structure, 1995-2001 36
III.2 MFN tariffs (simple average) by stage of processing, 1995, 1998, and 2001 38III.3 Seasonal tariffs, 2001 40III.4 Slovak tariff preferences by agreement and import volumes, 2001 41III.5 Usage of agricultural tariff quotas, 1998-2000 45III.6 Usage of export subsidies, 1998 to 2000 56
III.7 State aid, 1999 61
III.8 Domestic support to agriculture, 1996-2000 64III.9 Privatization of natural monopolies, September 1999 68III.10 Summary of intellectual property protection in the Slovak Republic, 2001 72WT/TPR/S/91 Trade Policy Review
Page vi
Page
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTORIV.1 Policy measures on agriculture 83
IV.2 Food industry capacity utilization rates, 1999 97
APPENDIX TABLES
II. DEVELOPMENTS IN TRADE AND INVESTMENT POLICY
AII.1 Selected notifications to the WTO by the Slovak Republic, August 2001 113
AII.2 The Slovak Republic's preferential trade agreements 116
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASUREAIII.1 Average tariffs and bindings, by H.S. chapter 117
AIII.2 Tariff quotas, 2001 121
AIII.3 Import and export licensing, 2001 125
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTORAIV.1 Tariff structure by 4-digit ISIC category, 2001 127Slovak Republic WT/TPR/S/91
Page vii
SUMMARY OBSERVATIONS
1. The Slovak Republic has made
impressive strides in its transformation to a
market economy since its previous Trade
Policy Review in 1995. Economic reform,
including trade and investment liberalization,regained momentum, especially after the late
1990s. Real GDP per capita increased to
US$3,500 in 2000, and social indicators have
improved. However, unemployment remains
high at 20%. Rural poverty and regionaldevelopment are still key policy priorities.
2. The restoration of macroeconomic
balance has also contributed to Slovakia's
recent development. Domestic reform,
including economic restructuring, hasimproved Slovakia's economic prospects. The
private sector now accounts for over 80% of
GDP and has become the main source of
growth.
(1) R
ECENT ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE
AND OUTLOOK
3. Annual GDP growth in Slovakia
slowed to around 2% in 1999 and 2000. The
previous high growth rates, averaging some
6% a year in 1995-98, had become
unsustainable as the fiscal and external
deficits widened, and monetary policy wastightened to support a fixed exchange rate. A
currency crisis emerged in 1998, with
confidence in Slovakia's reform sagging, in
part because of the Russian financial crisis.
4. In late 1998, the Slovak authorities
acted by moving to a floating exchange rate
system, tightening fiscal policies, and by re-
emphasizing economic reform. The budgetary
position remains frail, with the deficit expected
to be in the order of 3.9% in 2001. Monetarypolicy now targets inflation directly, and
inflation is expected to fall to 6.9% in 2001
from 12% in 2000.
5. Slovakia's economic recovery now
looks promising. GDP is expected to grow at
over 3% in 2001, rising thereafter to 4-5% a
year. Reflecting the improved economicenvironment, inflows of foreign investment
have risen sharply. Export growth has also
strengthened and external reserves have
rebounded to an import cover level of three
months in 2001, and are expected to rise
further. However, growth prospects hingecritically on continued successful stabilization
and structural reform, as well as on
favourable external developments.
6. External trade is vital to Slovakia's
recovery. Export-led growth has beenencouraged by greater access to imported
inputs following trade liberalization.
Merchandise trade increased sharply from
47% of GDP in 1995 to 64% in 2000. The
European Union (EU) has replaced CEFTAcountries, especially the Czech Republic, as
Slovakia's major trading partner. In 2000, the
EU accounted for 59% of Slovakia's
merchandise exports and 49% of its imports.
Manufactured products, especially machinery
and transport equipment, accounted for some
two thirds of Slovakia’s exports and imports in2000.
(2) T
RADE AND INVESTMENT POLICY
FRAMEWORK
7. Slovakia's broad trade policy
orientation is towards greater liberalization.Its trade regime is relatively open, apart for
agriculture, which receives special treatment.
Its approach to trade liberalization combines
multilateral, regional and bilateral initiatives.
8. Slovakia is an original member of the
WTO and an observer to the plurilateral
Agreement on Government Procurement.
Slovakia grants at least MFN treatment to all
WTO Members and several other countries
with which it has bilateral agreements callingfor such treatment. All tariffs are bound,
virtually all at the applied rate, thereby
creating a more predictable trading regime.
During the period under review, Slovakia has
continued to undertake obligations within the
multilateral framework. Tariffs on products
covered by the Information TechnologyAgreement (ITA) are to be phased out by 2002.
Slovakia is also to phase out tariffs (overWT/TPR/S/91 Trade Policy Review
Page viii
five years from 2000) on products covered by
the Pharmaceuticals Initiative. It extended its
initial GATS commitments on services by
participating in the 1997 WTO negotiations on
basic telecommunications and on financial
services. Slovakia has regularly notified tradepolicy developments to the WTO.
9. Slovakia's trade and economic reforms
are being driven overwhelmingly by the
objective of readiness for EU accession by
2004. Trade and economic policies areincreasingly being harmonized with those of
the EU. Negotiations on EU accession
commenced in February 2000; Slovakia aims
to complete them by end-2002. Screening of
Slovakia's legislation was essentiallycompleted in 1999, and its third National
Programme for the Adoption of the Acquis was
submitted in May 2001. As at mid-2001, 19 of
the 29 chapters opened had been provisionally
closed, but sensitive areas remained, such as
agriculture. The European Commission views
Slovakia as a “functioning market economy”,in which further macro economic and
structural reforms are needed.
10. Liberalization at the regional level has
increasingly dominated Slovakia's trade
initiatives. Preferential tariff cuts withinregional arrangements exceed multilateral
reductions. EU industrial products receive
duty-free treatment, and preferential access is
given to agricultural products. Slovakia's
customs union with the Czech Republicprovides for free trade, subject to certain
exceptions on foodstuffs. Slovakia also has a
free-trade agreement with EFTA member
States, other CEFTA parties, as well as
bilaterally with the Baltic States, Israel, andTurkey. Slovakia expects it will need to adopt
the EU's preferential agreements upon
accession.
11. In 2000 preferential duties averaged
about one third of Slovakia's MFN levels.
Preferential rates differ between products and
across trading partners. Only a small anddeclining share of Slovakia's imports (26% in
2000) originate exclusively in non-preferential
sources.12. EU accession will further deepen
Slovakia's European integration, and promote
economic development. It offers renewed
opportunities for comprehensive trade,
investment and other economic reforms. But
EU accession, and regional integration,should not detract from multilateral
liberalization, including of agriculture, which
will continue to be in Slovakia's economic
interests. This would minimize any possible
trade diversion from EU accession shouldagricultural assistance rise substantially to
higher EU levels as seems probable. Any
such trade diversion could undermine
Slovakia's economic efficiency, especially if
sectoral disparities widened betweenmanufacturing and agricultural activities. It
could also harm third countries, and reduce
the benefits to Slovakia from trade
liberalization by displacing imports from the
most efficient suppliers.
13. Slovakia's GSP scheme for developing
countries exempts many "sensitive" products,such as fertilizers, carpets, and most footwear,
equivalent to over half of tariff items. Reduced
margins of preference (50%) apply to "less
sensitive" products, covering a further 29% of
tariff items. All least developed countryimports are duty free. On average, Slovakia's
GSP tariffs are generally much higher than
preferential duties provided to its regional
trading partners. Slovakia intends to adopt
the EU GSP scheme prior to accession.
14. Foreign investment jumped in 2000 to
10% of GDP (3.5% in 1999). As an OECD
member, Slovakia provides, with few
exceptions and transitional provisions, equal
treatment of foreign and domestic investors.Only foreign branches in the energy sector are
restricted. No screening procedures or
foreign equity limits apply, except in a few
service industries, such as air transportation.
Slovakia has progressively extended
incentives, such as tax holidays, to attract
foreign direct investment. The latest changeswere approved in May 2001. It is unclear
whether the benefits of such incentives
outweigh their costs.Slovak Republic WT/TPR/S/91
Page ix
(3) D EVELOPMENTS IN TRADE AND
TRADE -RELATED MEASURES
15. The simple average MFN tariff was
6.1% in 2001, down from 8% in 1995. Tariff
dispersion also narrowed. In 2001,
preferential tariffs (excluding GSP) averaged2%, (the average rate on EU imports was
2.4%). Tariff surcharges have been applied
widely several times since 1995 for balance-
of-payments reasons, the latest - from mid-
1999 - initially at a rate of 7% butprogressively lowered to 3%, and eliminated
from 2001. Indirect taxes do not discriminate
against imports.
16. Substantial tariff escalation exists,
especially on "food, beverages and tobacco"and "textile and clothing", with relatively high
tariffs of up to over 100% applying to
foodstuffs. Most agricultural goods are
protected by relatively high tariffs. The MFN
average tariff on these goods was 13%,
around three times that for non-agricultural
products (WTO definitions).
17. All tariffs are ad valorem. However,
tariff transparency is undermined by duty
exemptions, higher seasonal rates on certain
flowers, fruits and vegetables, as well as by
the existence of many different rates, ofteninvolving fractional duties.
18. The new Customs Law of 2001,
aligning Slovakia's customs procedures with
those of the EU, improved customs efficiency,
aided by further computerization usingASYCUDA and the introduction of a
comprehensive risk analysis control system.
19. Remaining formal non-tariff barriers
are relatively few. Import quotas exist only on
some products, such as shoes (imported fromChina) and sugar, including from the Czech
Republic until end-2002. Quotas on beer and
non-alcoholic beverages are expected to be
eliminated at end-2001. Quotas were also
removed on coal, fuels and other products.
The coverage of automatic import licences
was reduced to certain products for statisticaland monitoring purposes, such as foodstuffsand tobacco products, or for security reasons,
like on explosives and firearms. Imported cars
older than ten years are prohibited for health
and environmental reasons.
20. Tariff quotas apply on many goods,
especially foodstuffs, beverages and tobacco."First-come, first-served" global MFN tariff
quotas apply to 24 agricultural product
categories to provid e "minimum and current”
market access following tariffication of non-
tariff measures. High in-quota and out-of-quota rates apply on many products, of up to
70% and 125%, respectively. Many quotas
are substantially under-utilized; average
utilization rates fell from 45% in 1998 to 34%
in 2000. Temporary MFN tariff quotas withzero in-quota rates also apply on products
considered in short supply. Preferential tariff
quotas exist in regional trading agreements.
On overlapping products, MFN agricultural
tariff quotas include preferential quota
imports.
21. Many "sensitive" agricultural imports
from the Czech Republic are monitored jointly
under the customs union arrangements. On
foodstuffs, auto-limitation agreements also
exist between respective producer
associations.
22. Slovakia is harmonizing standards,
technical regulations, and conformity testing
procedures with mainly the EU. Testing and
standardization processes have been
simplified. From 2001, Slovakia's standardsbecame voluntary, unless specified in a
technical regulation. At end-May 2001, there
were 23,199 standards; 62% were national
standards, 27% European standards, and the
rest international, mainly ISO and IEC.Slovakia intends to have harmonized 80% of
standards with EU norms by 2002. EU
requirements are applied where different from
international norms. Self-declared
certification by manufacturers and importers
has been introduced. Several mutual
recognition agreements exist, including withthe Czech Republic and Poland, and between
CEFTA members.WT/TPR/S/91 Trade Policy Review
Page x
23. Slovakia maintains strict quarantine
and other SPS regulations affecting food
imports. For example, imports of potatoes,
and fruits such as apples and pears, are
subject to rigorous surveillance, based on pest
risk assessments. Imports of GMO food andmeat treated with growth-promoting hormones
are banned.
24. Slovakia is strengthening competition
legislation along EU lines, with greater
independence given to the AntimonopolyOffice. Anti-competitive agreements, such as
fixing prices, are banned, as is abuse of a
dominant market position by suppliers not
subject to "substantial" competition. Mergers
are prohibited if they create or strengthen afirm’s dominant market position which may
reduce competition.
25. The State Aid Office was established
in 2000 to monitor and control state aid to
manufacturing. State aid that restricts
competition is prohibited, subject to sectoral
exemptions - steel, shipbuilding, automotive,man-made fibre and mining industries - where
it is allowed for certain purposes, such as
industrial restructuring, within set limits.
State aid was estimated by the Office at
Sk 15.2 billion in 1999 (up from Sk 6.8 billionin 1998). The main beneficiary sectors were
transport and communications.
26. Anti-dumping and countervailing
legislation, administered by the Ministries of
Finance and Economy, respectively, wasadopted in mid-1997. So far, no actions have
been taken. Each ministry must request the
Antimonopoly Office's opinion on the effects
on competition of such action. This explicitly
recognises the anti-competitive effects of anti-dumping and countervailing actions, and may
help limit their misuse. However, the Office's
exact role on these issues is unclear.
27. Safeguard legislation, also introduced
in 1997 and administered by the Ministry of
Economy, has been used twice. Additional
tariffs on imported pig meat, applied in May1999, were terminated on schedule within
200 days. A four-year quota applies to sugar.Although the Antimonopoly Office must
provide an opinion to the Ministry, its precise
role is ambiguous. Of 17 requests provided,
ten were on industrial products. No safeguard
action has been taken on industrial products,
even on flat rolled iron products from Russiaand the Ukraine where the Office
recommended additional duties.
28. An independent Office of Public
Procurement was established in 2000 to
administer and supervise public procurement,thereby improving transparency. No price
preferences apply to domestic suppliers.
Tender methods are stipulated in the
legislation. In 2000, 46% of procurement
contracts were let by open tender.Procurement decisions may be appealed to the
Office, including by foreign firms, and to the
courts.
29. Slovakia has comprehensive
legislation protecting intellectual property
rights and belongs to all major related
multilateral agreements. It recently ratifiedthe WIPO treaties on Internet Protection and
joined the Patent Law Treaty. New copyright
legislation, effective August 2000, is to comply
with EU requirements and provide added
protection for digital technologies anddatabases. Parallel imports are not restricted.
30. Patents, industrial designs, and utility
models are protected. New legislation is to
apply from end-2001. Semi-conductor
topographies are protected by separatelegislation, effective June 2000. Revised trade
mark legislation is due from 2002. Stronger
protection of geographical indications,
including for alcoholic beverages, is expected
from 2003. Greater powers for customs toseize and destroy illegal imports have
strengthened enforcement, seen as inadequate
by some trading partners.
31. Slovakia does not levy taxes, charges
or other fees on its exports. It maintains
export quotas on mainly agricultural and iron
and steel products to stabilize the domesticmarket. Automatic export licences apply for
statistical and monitoring purposes to certainSlovak Republic WT/TPR/S/91
Page xi
products, such as raw leather and
pharmaceuticals.
32. Export subsidies, especially on dairy
products and malt, totalled Sk 535 million in
2000, up from Sk 491 million in 1999.
Slovakia’s multilateral export subsidycommitments provide only limited constraint
on their use; subsidies paid in 2000
represented 65% of its committed levels.
33. Exporters benefit from finance,
insurance, and guarantees provided by thestate-owned Eximbank in accordance with
OECD rules. Soft "green loans" also assist
exports of agricultural produce, such as fruit
and vegetables. Several schemes assist export
promotion and marketing. Exporters maybenefit from tariff suspensions and duty
drawback schemes, as well as from six
customs-free zones.
(4) S
ECTORAL DEVELOPMENTS
34. Agricultural policy is heavily
influenced by EU accession requirements as
Slovakia strives to introduce CAP-consistentmeasures. Agricultural support is a high
government priority for food self-sufficiency.
Agricultural assistance (measured on a PSE
basis) fell substantially to 1% in 1996, before
surging to 27% in 1998, and 22% in 2000.Transfers to farmers totalled Sk 15.6 billion in
2000, mainly funded by taxpayers and
consumers.
35. Farm assistance is increasingly being
delivered by direct support payments (about90% in 2000), mainly related to inputs, area
planted/animal numbers or farm income.
Although Slovakia’s has met its committed
levels of domestic support, its agricultural
PSE assistance - as measured by the OECD -substantially exceeds its AMS levels.
36. Farm assistance is delivered by way of
tariffs, price support, supply control measures,
credit and input subsidies as well as direct
outlays, including export subsidies. Assisted
products include sugar, dairying, poultry, and
pigmeat. The Government believes thatagriculture should be fully integrated into the
EU's CAP at similar support levels. However,
increased agricultural assistance may
undermine economic efficiency by widening
disparities in Slovakia's assistance structure.
It may also increase Slovakia's agriculturalsurpluses and subsidized exports.
37. Unlike agriculture, Slovakia's
industrial sector is restructuring due to
greater import competition from trade
liberalization. Several industries, such asmotor vehicles and primary plastics, have
improved performance based on new export
markets and foreign investment.
38. Privatization remains a key policy
objective to achieve a more competitiveeconomy, including in essential services.
Since 1999, the privatization programme has
been revitalized and made more transparent.
Natural (or strategic) state-owned monopolies
are no longer excluded from privatization,
except for posts, railways, forestry, and water
supply. Maximum private ownership limitsapply to a few state-owned enterprises, such
as of 34% in telecommunication, banking, and
insurance markets. Weak institutions, poor
commercial regulations and corporate
governance, hampered restructuring as didnon-commercial privatizations subject to
political interference. Improved commercial
laws, including revised bankruptcy and
securities regulation, now facilitate more
efficient enterprise restructuring, althoughcommercial courts remain overburdened.
39. Priority areas for divestment have
included financial and telecommunication
services and key utilities, such as electricity
and gas. The banking sector has beenrestructured, including through capital
injections of Sk 18.9 billion into the three
largest state-owned banks, and a state carve
out of their non-performing loans totalling
Sk 105 billion. Privatization of these banks is
to be completed by end-2001. Bank
supervision by the National Bank has alsobeen strengthened, and compliance improved.WT/TPR/S/91 Trade Policy Review
Page xii
40. Foreign bank and, since April 2000,
insurance branches are allowed. The state-
owned insurance company is to be privatized.
Compulsory third party motor vehicle
insurance is to be de-monopolized from 2002.
New insurance companies can no longer offerboth life and non-life policies from April 2000.
41. Regulatory authorities are being
established in key services to facilitate
privatization, and safeguard competition.
51% of Slovakia Telecom was recentlydivested overseas, and a new independent
regulatory body, the Telecommunications
Office, created in July 2000. The sector is to
be further liberalized from 2003 when the state
monopoly over basic telecommunicationsusing the public fixed network is due to end.
The Telecommunications Act of 2000 provides
licensed entrants from 2003 with non-
discriminatory access to the public network
within a reasonable time at a price based on
justified costs. Universal services are also
stipulated.
42. The transport sector is also being
reformed. Bus subsidies on routes over
100 kilometres are being terminated. The
heavily indebted state-owned Slovak Railways
is being restructured into two enterprises in2001. Freight and passenger services are to
be privatized by 2005. Passenger subsidies
are to be progressively reduced and
rationalised for loss-making routes. The
policy to establish a state-owned national aircarrier ceased in January 1999.Cabotage rights, extended on reciprocity
grounds, apply to shipping services in
Slovakia.
(5) T
RADE POLICY AND FOREIGN
TRADING PARTNERS
43. Slovakia's accelerated economic
transition has intensified its preparations for
EU accession. This will provide renewed
opportunities and benefits to Slovakia and its
trading partners.
44. Nevertheless, Slovakia will need to
continue balancing the requirements of EU
accession with its participation in the
multilateral trading system. Liberalization
efforts offer most economic benefits to
Slovakia and its trading partners when theyare mutually reinforcing, and regional
initiatives, like EU accession, do not
undermine MFN liberalisation. The most
effective means of ensuring this would be for
Slovakia to extend regional preferences on a
non-discriminatory basis and to secure them
multilaterally.
45. Vigorous pursuit of multilateral trade
liberalization will continue to be in Slovakia's
longer term economic interests, including
post-EU accession when the likelihood of
increased agricultural assistance maygenerate trade diversion concerns. Slovakia's
trading partners could also facilitate its
successful transition by ensuring non-
discriminatory access to their markets.
| 4,013 | 28,275 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_IP_N_1INDT2.pdf
|
S_IP_N_1INDT2
|
WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION
ORGANISATION MONDIALE DU COMMERCE
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL DEL COMERCIOIP/N/1/IND/T/2
6 November 2003
(03-5924)
Council for Trade-Related Aspects of
Intellectual Property RightsOriginal: English/
anglais/
inglés
MAIN DEDICATED INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
LAWS AND REGULATIONS NOTIFIED UNDER
ARTICLE 63.2 OF THE AGREEMENT
INDIA
The present document reproduces the text1 of the Trade Marks Rules, 2002, as notified by
India under Article 63.2 of the Agreement (see document IP/N/1/IND/2/Add.1).
Conseil des aspects des droits de propriétéintellectuelle qui touchent au commerce
PRINCIPALES LOIS ET REGLEMENTATIONS CONSACREES A LA
PROPRIETE INTELLECTUELLE NOTIFIEES AU TITRE
DE L'ARTICLE 63:2 DE L'ACCORD
INDE
Le présent document contient le texte
1 du Règlement de 2002 sur les marques de fabrique ou
de commerce, notifié par l'Inde au titre de l'article 63:2 de l'Accord (voir le document
IP/N/1/IND/2/Add.1).
Consejo de los Aspectos de los Derechos de Propiedad
Intelectual relacionados con el Comercio
PRINCIPALES LEYES Y REGLAMENTOS DEDICADOS A LA
PROPIEDAD INTELECTUAL NOTIFICADOS EN VIRTUD
DEL PÁRRAFO 2 DEL ARTÍCULO 63 DEL ACUERDO
INDIA
En el presente documento se reproduce el texto1 del Reglamento de Marcas de Fábrica o de
Comercio de 2002, que la India notificó de conformidad con lo dispuesto en el párrafo 2 delartículo 63 del Acuerdo (véase el documento IP/N/1/IND/2/Add.1).
1 In English only./En anglais seulement./En inglés solamente.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 2
MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
(DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRIAL POLICY & PROMOTION)
NOTIFICATION
New Delhi, the 26th February, 2002
G.S.R. 114(E)- WHEREAS certain Draft Rules were published in exercise of the powers conferred
by sub-section (1) read with section 2 [except clause s (xxix), (xxx, (xxxi), (xxxiii) thereof]of section
157 of the Trade Marks Act,1999 (47 of 1999) and sections 22 and 24 of the General Clauses Act,
1897 (10 of 1897), vide notification of the Governme nt of India in the Ministry of Commerce and
Industry (Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion) vide Number G.S.R. 373 (E) dated the 18th
May, 2001 published in Part II section 3, sub-section (i) of the Gazette of India, (Extraordinary),
inviting objections and suggestions from all persons likely to be affected thereby before the expiry of
thirty days from the date on which copies of the Gazette containing the Notification were made
available to the public;
AND WHEREAS the copies of the Gazette containing the said Notification were made
available to the public on 11th June, 2001;
AND WHEREAS the objections and suggestions were received from the public have been
considered by the Central Government;
NOW, THEREFORE, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) and (2) of
section 157 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999( 47 of 1999), the Central Government hereby makes the
following rules, namely:-
PART 1
CHAPTER 1
PRELIMINARY
1. (1) Short title and commencement . - These rules may be called the Trade Marks Rules,
2002.
(2) They shall come into force on the date on which the Act comes into force.
2. (1) Definition.- In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires, -
a) "Act" means the Trade Marks Act, 1999 (47 of 1999);
b) "agent" means a person authorised under section 145 of the Act;
c) "application for registration of a trade mark" includes the trade mark for goods or services
contained in it;
d) "appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry" means the relevant office of the Trade
Marks Registry as specified in rule 4;
e) "class fee" means the fee prescribed for the filing of an application for registration of a trade
mark in a particular class;IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 3
f) "convention country" means an application for registration of a trade mark made by virtue of
section 154;
g) "convention application" means an application for the registration of a trade mark made by
virtue of Section 154;
h) "divisional application" means-
(i) an application containing a request for the division of goods or services in a
class for the registration of a trade mark; or
(ii) a divided application made by the division of a single application for the
registration of a trade mark for separate classes of goods or services;
i) "divisional fee" means fee prescribed against entry no.68 in the First Schedule,
j) "Form" means a form set forth in either the Second or the Third Schedule;
k) "graphical representation" means the representation of a trade mark for goods or services in
paper form;
l) "journal" means the Trade Marks Journal referred to in rule 43;
m) "notified date" means the date on which the rules come into force;
n) "old law" means the Trade and Merchandise Marks Act, 1958 and rules made there under
existing immediately before the commencement of the Act;
o) "opposition" includes an opposition to the registration of a trade mark or a collective mark or
a certification trade mark, as the case may be;
p) "principal place of business in India" means the relevant place in India as specified in rule 3;
q) "publish" means publish in the Trade Marks Journal;
r) "registered trade mark agent" means a trade marks agent whose name is actually on the
Register of Trade Marks Agents maintained under rule 148;
s) "renewal" means and includes renewal of a trade mark, certification trade mark or collective
mark, as the case may be;
t) "schedule" means a schedule to the rules;
u) "section" means a section of the Act;
v) "specification" means the designation of goods or services in respect of which a trade mark
or a registered user of a trade mark is registered or proposed to be registered;
w) All other words and expressions used but not defined in these rules but defined in the Act or in
the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999(48 of 1999),
the Copyright Act, 1957 (14 of 1957) shall have the meanings assigned to them in those Acts.
(2). In these rules, except as otherwise indicated, a reference to a section is a reference to
that section in the Act, a reference to a rule is a re ference to that rule in these rules, a reference to a
Schedule is a reference to that Schedule to these rules and a reference to a Form is a reference to that
Form contained in the Second Schedule or the Third Schedule, as the case may be, to these rules.
3. Principal place of business in India . - "Principal place of business in India" means-
(i) where a person carries on business in the goods or services concerned in a trade mark-
(a) if the business is carried on in India at only one place, that place;
(b) if the business is carried on in India at more places than one, the place mentioned by
him as the principal place of business in India;
(ii) where a person is not carrying on a business in the goods or services concerned in a trade
mark -
(a) if he is carrying on any other business in India at only one place, that place;
(b) if he is carrying on any other business in India at more places than one, the place
mentioned by him as the principal place of business in India; andIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 4
(iii) where a person does not carry on any business in India but has a place of residence in India,
then such place of residence in India.
4. Appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry . - The appropriate office of the Trade
Marks Registry for the purposes of making an application for registration of a trade mark under
section 18 or for giving notice of opposition under section 21 or for making an application forremoval of a trade mark under section 47 or cancelling or varying the registration of a trade mark
under Section 57 or for any other proceedings under the Act and the rules shall be -
a) in relation to a trade mark on the Register of Trade Marks at the notified date, the office of the
Trade Marks Registry within whose territorial limits-
(i) the principal place of business in India of the registered proprietor of the trade mark
as entered in the register at such date is situate;
(ii) where there is no entry in the register as to the principal place of business in India of
the registered proprietor, the place mentioned in the address for service in India as
entered in the register at such date is situate;
(iii) in the case of jointly registered proprietors, the principal place of business in India of
the proprietor whose name is entered first in the register as having such place of
business in India at such date is situate;
(iv) where none of the jointly registered proprietors is shown in the register as having a
principal place of business in India, the place mentioned in the address for service in
India of the joint proprietors as entered in the register at such date, is situate;
(v) if no principal place of business in India of the registered proprietor of the mark or in
the case of joint registration, of any of the joint proprietors of the mark, is entered in
the register, and the register does not contain any address for service in India, the
place of the office of the Trade Marks Registry where the application for registration
of the trade mark was made, is situate, and
b) in relation to a trade mark for which an application for registration is pending at the notified
date or is made on or after the notified date, the office of the Trade Marks Registry within
whose territorial limits –
(i) the principal place of business in India of the applicant as disclosed in the application
or, in the case of joint applicants, the principal place of business in India of the
applicant whose name is first mentioned in the application, as having such place of
business is situate;
(ii) where neither the applicant nor any of the joint applicants, as the case may be, has a
principal place of business in India, the place mentioned in the address for service in
India as specified in the application is situate.
5. Jurisdiction of appropriate office not altered by change in the principal place of business
or address for service . - No change in the principal place of business in India or in the address for
service in India, as the case may be,
(a) of a registered proprietor or of any of the jointly registered proprietors in relation to any trade
mark on the register at the notified date, made or effected subsequent to that date or,
(b) of an applicant for registration or of any of the joint applicants for registration in relation to
any trade mark for which an application for registration is either pending at the notified date
or is made on or after that date, made or effected subsequent to that date or to the date offiling of such application, as the case may be,
shall affect the jurisdiction of the appropriate office of the trade marks registry .IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 5
6. Entry of the appropriate office in the Register. - In respect of every trade mark on the
register at the notified date or registered thereafter the Registrar shall cause to be entered in the
register the appropriate office of the trade marks registry and the Registrar may, at any time, correct
any error in the entry so made.
7. Transfer of pending applications and proceedings to appropriate offices of the trade
marks registry . - Every application and proceeding pending before the Registrar at the notified date
in relation to a trade mark shall be deemed to have been transferred to the appropriate office of the
trade marks registry.
8. Leaving of documents, etc. - (1) Save as otherwise provided in sub-rule (2), all
applications, notices, statements or other documents or any fees authorised or required by the Act orthe rules to be made, served, left or sent or paid at or to the trade marks registry in relation to a trade
mark on the Register of Trade Marks on the notified date or for which an application for registration
is pending on, or is made on or after the notified date, shall be made, served, left or sent or paid to the
appropriate office of the trade marks registry.
(2) Documents or fees authorised or required by the Act or the rules to be sent or paid may be
sent or paid at or to either the appropriate office or the head office of the trade marks registry in the
following matters –
(a) communication and other documents including affidavits in relation to an application
filed for registration of a trade mark;
(b) application or request on Forms TM-10, TM-12, TM-13, TM-14, TM-16, TM-17,
TM-19, TM-20, TM-21, TM-23, TM-24, TM-25, TM-28, TM-29, TM-30, TM-31,
TM-32, TM-33, TM-34, TM-35, TM-36, TM-38, TM-40, TM-46, TM-47, TM-50,
TM-54, TM-55, TM-58, TM-59 , TM-61 and TM-62..
(c) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-rule 1 and under clause (a) or clause (b)
of sub-rule 2 or sub rule 3 of rule 24, a request for search and issuance of certificate
in form TM-60, expedited examination in Form TM-63, or expedited certified copies
of documents in Form TM-70, or for expedited search report in Form TM-71 or for
expedited search and issuance of a copyright certificate in TM-72 shall be filed at thehead Registry until the Registry after info rming the public in the Journals directs
otherwise .
(9) Documents etc. filed or left not at the appropriate office . - Subject to the provisions of
rule 8, where an application, notice, statement or other document or any fee authorised or required by
the Act or the rules is made, served, left or sent or paid, at or to an office inadvertently which is not
the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry, the Registrar may on his own or on a request inwriting return such application, notice, statemen t or document to the appropriate office if he is
satisfied that it was a bona fide error by the applicant:
Provided the period for which such application, notice or statement or document is retained by the
office which is not the appropriate office shall be excluded for the purposes of computing the period
of limitation where any of such application, notice, statement or document is required to be presented
within the prescribed period:
Provided further that any fee paid at the office which is not the appropriate shall be deemed to have
been paid at the appropriate office:
Provided also that before declining any such request, the Registrar shall provide the applicant an
opportunity of being heard.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 6
10. Issue of notices etc . - Any notice or communication relating to an application, matter or
proceeding under the Act or the rules may be issued by the Head of Office or any other officers
authorised by the Registrar.
11. Fees . - (1) The fees to be paid in respect of applications, oppositions, registration, renewal,
expedited examination or reports or any other matters under the Act and the rules shall be those
specified in the First Schedule, hereinafter referred to as the prescribed fees.
(2) Where in respect of any matter a fee is required to be paid under the rules, the form or the
application or the request of the petition, thereof, shall be accompanied by the prescribed fee.
(3) Fees may be paid in cash or sent by money order addressed to the Registrar or by a bank
draft issued or by a cheque drawn on a scheduled bank at the place where the appropriate office of the
Trade Marks Registry is situated and if sent throug h post shall be deemed to have been paid at the
time when the money order or the properly addressed bank draft or cheque would be delivered in the
ordinary course of post.
(4) Bank drafts and cheques shall be crossed and made payable to the Registrar at the
appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry and these shall be drawn on a scheduled bank at the
place where the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry is situate.
(5) Subject to the provisions contained in sub-rule 19 of rule 25,where a fee is payable in
respect of filing of a document and where the document is filed without fee or with insufficient fee,
such document shall be deemed not to have not been filed for the purposes any proceedings under
these rules.
(6) The Registrar may, after informing the public in the Journal make available electronic fee
transfer facilities subject to guidelines and instructions as may be specified on that behalf.
12. Forms . - (1) The Forms set forth in the Second and the Third Schedules shall be used in all
cases to which they are applicable and may be modified as directed by the Registrar to meet other
cases.
(2) Any Form, when filed at the Trade Marks Registry, shall be accompanied by the
prescribed fee.
(3) A requirement under this rule to use a Form as set forth in the Schedules is satisfied by the
use either of a replica of that Form or of a Form which is acceptable to the Registrar and contains the
information required by the Form as set forth and complies with any direction as to the use of such a
Form.
(4) The Registrar may after informing the public in the Journal specify such Forms as are
required to be submitted in electronic mode. Thereafter, such Forms shall be completed in such a
manner as may be specified as to permit an automated input of the content into a computer, such as by
character recognition or scanning.
13. Size, etc of documents . - (1) Subject to any other directions that may be given by the
Registrar, all applications, notices statements, or other documents except trade marks, authorised or
required by the Act or the rules to be made, served, left or sent, at or to the Trade Marks Registry or
with or to the Registrar shall be neatly handwritten or typewritten or lithographed or printed in Hindior in English in large and legible characters with deep permanent ink upon strong paper, and except in
the case of affidavits, on one side only, and of size of approximately 33 centimetres by 20
centimetres and shall have on the left hand part thereof a margin of not less than 4 centimetres.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 7
(2) Duplicate documents including copies of trade marks shall be filed at the Trade Marks
Registry if at any time required by the Registrar.
(3) The Registrar may after informing the publi c in the Journal alter the size, of all
applications, notices, statements or other document and forms required under the rules to make itcompatible in electronic mode.
(4) The Registrar may after informing the public in the Journal permit the filing of
applications, statements, notices or other documents by electronic mode subject to such guidelines
and instructions as he may specify in the Journal.
14. Signing of documents. - (1) A document purporting to be signed by a partnership firm shall
be signed by at least one of the partners stating that he signs on behalf of the firm and a document
purporting to be signed by a director or by the secretary or other principal officer of the body
corporate. The capacity in which an individual signs a document on behalf of a partnership or a body
corporate shall be stated below his signature.
(2) Signatures to any documents shall be accompanied by the name of the signatory in Hindi
or in capitals letters if signed in English.
15. Service of documents .- (1)All applications, notices, statements, papers having
representations affixed thereto, or other documents authorised or required by the Act or the rules tobe made, served, left or sent, at or to the Trade Marks Registry or with or to the Registrar or any other
person may be sent through the post by a prepaid letter.
(2) Any application or any document so sent shall be deemed to have been made, served, left
or sent at the time when the letter containing the same would be delivered in the ordinary course ofpost.
(3) In proving such sending it shall be sufficient to prove that the letter was properly
addressed and put into the post.
(4) After the filing of an application in the Trade Marks Registry, any person while making
any correspondence relating thereto to the Registry shall furnish the following particulars, namely:-
(a) The application number or numbers if any;
(b) The date and place of filing;
(c) The appropriate class or classes, as the case may be in relation to which the
application is filed;
(d) An address for communication; and
(e) The concerned agent's code, if any, and the concerned proprietor's code if
allotted.
(5) The Registrar may after informing the public in the Journal permit transmission of any
document by facsimile (fax) of specified documents not requiring payment of a fee.
(6) The Registrar may after informing the public in the Trade Marks Journal accept
communications of a routine nature through E-Mail not requiring the payment of a fee thereof.
16. Particulars of address etc. of applicants and other persons. - (1) Names and addresses of
the applicants and other persons shall be given in full, together with their nationality, calling and such
other particulars as are necessary for identification.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 8
(2) In the case of a firm the full name and nationality of every partner thereof shall be stated.
(3) In the case of an application from a convention country and persons having no principal
place of business in India, their addresses in their home country shall be given in addition to their
address for service in India.
(4) In the case of a body corporate or firm, the country of incorporation or the nature of
registration, if any, as the case may be, shall be given.
17. Statement of principal place of business in India in an application . - (1) Every
application for registration of a trade mark shall state the principal place of business in India, if any,
of the applicant or in the case of joint applicants, of such of the joint applicants as have a principalplace of business in India.
(2) Subject to the provisions of rules 18, 19 and 21, any written communication addressed to
an applicant, or in the case of joint applicants to a joint applicant, in connection with the registration
of a trade mark, at the address of his principal place of business in India given by him in theapplication shall be deemed to be properly addressed.
18. Address for service . - (1) An address for service in India shall be given –
(a) by every applicant for registration of a trade mark who has no principal place of
business in India;
(b) in the case of joint applicants for registration of a trade mark, if none of them has a
principal place of business in India;
(c) by the proprietor of a trade mark who had his principal place of business in India at
the date of making the application for registration but has subsequently ceased tohave such place;
(d) by every applicant in any proceeding under the Act or the rules and every person
filing a notice of opposition, who does not have a principal place of business in India.
(e) by every person granted leave to intervene under rule 94
(2) Any written communication addressed to a person as aforesaid at an address for service in
India given by him shall be deemed to be properly addressed.
(3) Unless an address for service in India as required in sub-rule (1) is given, the Registrar
shall be under no obligation to send any notice that may be required by the Act or the rules and no
subsequent order or decision in the proceedings shall be called in question on the ground of any lack
or non-service of notice.
19. Address for service in application and opposition proceedings .- An applicant for
registration of a trade mark or an opponent filing a notice of opposition may notwithstanding that he
has a principal place of business in India, if he so desires, may specifically request in writing, the
Registrar with an address in India to which communications in relation to the application oropposition proceedings only may be sent. Such address of the applicant or the opponent shall be
deemed, unless subsequently cancelled, to be the actual address of the applicant or the opponent, as
the case may be, and all communications and documents in relation to the application or notice of
opposition may be served by leaving them at, or sending them by post to such address of the applicant
or the opponent, as the case may be.
20. Non-availability of an address for service . - The Registrar may, at any time when a doubt
arises as to the continued availability of an address for service in India entered in the register, requestIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 9
the person for whom it is entered, by letter directed to any other address entered in the register or if no
such address is entered in the register to the addr ess at which the Registrar considers that the letter
would reach him, to confirm the address for service in India and if within two months of making such
a request the Registrar receives no such confirmation, he may strike the entry in the register of the
address for service in India and require such person to furnish a fresh address for service in India or
his address at the principal place of business in India, if he has any at that time.
21. Agency. - (1) The authorisation of an agent for the purpose of section 145 shall be executed
on Form TM-48 or in such other written form as the Registrar may deem sufficient and proper.
(2) In the case of such authorisation, service upon the agent of any document relating to the
proceeding or matter shall be deemed to be service upon the person so authorising him; all
communications directed to be made to such person in respect of the proceeding or matter may beaddressed to such agent, and all appearances before Registrar relating thereto may be made by or
through such agent.
(3) In any particular case the Registrar may require the personal signature or presence of an
applicant, opponent, proprietor, registered user or other person.
22. Classification of goods or services . - (1) For the purposes of the registration of trade marks,
goods and services shall be classified in the manner specified in the Fourth Schedule.
(2) The goods and services mentioned in the Fourth Schedule only provide a means by which
the general content of numbered international classes can be quickly identified. It corresponds to the
major content of each class and are not intended to be exhaustive in accordance with the International
Classification of goods and services. For determining the classification of particular goods and
services and for full disclosure of the content of international classification , the applicant may refer to
the alphabetical index of goods and services, if any, published by the Registrar under section 8 or thecurrent edition of the International Classification of Goods and Services for the purpose of
registration of trade mark published by the World Intellectual Property Organisation or subsequent
edition as may be published.
(3) The Registrar shall identify and include in the alphabetical index of classificaiton of goods
or services, as far as practicable, goods or services of Indian origin.
23. Preliminary advice by Registrar as to distinctiveness. - (1)An application for preliminary
advice by the Registrar under sub-section (1) of Section 133 shall be made on Form TM-55 in respect
of any goods or services comprised within any one class in the Fourth Schedule, accompanied by
three representations of the trade mark.
(2) The advice referred to sub-rule (1) shall ordinarily be given within seven working
days of such filing of the application and such advice shall contain the reasons therefor.
24. Request to Registrar for search. - (1) Any person may request the Registrar, on Form TM-
54 to cause a search to be made in respect of a trade mark relating to specified goods or servicesclassified in any one class in the Fourth Schedule to ascertain whether any trade mark is on record
which resembles the trade mark in respect of which the request is made. The Registrar shall cause
such search to be made and the result thereof communicated ordinarily to the person making the
request within thirty working days of the receipt of such request:
Provided, that the Registrar shall cause an expedited search report to be issued ordinarily
within seven working days on a request in Form TM-71 on payment of five times the ordinary fees
for such search.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 10
(2) If, within three months from the date of communication of the result of the search
aforesaid, an application is made for the registration of the trade mark in question and the Registrar
takes objection on the ground that the trade mark resembles a trade mark, which was not disclosed in
the search but was on record on the last of the dates on which the search was made, the applicant shall
be entitled, on giving notice of withdrawal of the application within the period mentioned in rule 39,
to have repaid to him any fee paid on the filing of the application.
(3) Any person may request the Registrar, on Form TM-60 to cause a search to be made and
for issue of certificate under sub-section (1) of section 45 of Copyright Act, 1957 (14 of 1957) to the
effect that no trade mark identical with or deceptively similar to such artistic work, as sought to be
registered as copyright under the Copyright Act, 1957 (14 of 1957) has been registered as a trade
mark under the Trade Marks Act, 1999(47 of 1999) in the name of, or that no application has been
made under that Act for such re-registration by any person other than the applicant. The certificatewill ordinarily be issued within thirty working days of the date of request:
Provided, however, the Registrar may call for a statement of requirements from the applicant and if
the requirements are not complied within two months from the date of such calling of the statement,
the request on Form TM-60 shall be treated as abandoned.
(4) The Registrar may cancel the certificate issued under sub-rule (3) after giving notice and
stating the grounds on which the Registrar proposes to cancel the certificate and after providing
reasonable opportunity of being heard.
(5) Subject to proviso to sub-rule 3 or sub-rule 4 above mentioned, the Registrar shall
ordinarily within seven working days issue an expedited certificate under sub-section (1) of section 45
of the Copyright Act, 1957 (14 of 1957) on a request received in Form TM-72 on payment of five
times the ordinary fee for such search.
(6) Before abandoning the request in Form TM-60 or TM-72 , as the case may be, for non-
compliance of the statement of requirements when ca lled for, the Registrar shall offer an opportunity
of being heard in the matter.
CHAPTER II
PROCEDURE FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE MARKS APPLICATION
25. Form and signing of application . - (1) An application to the Registrar for the registration
of a trade mark shall be signed by the applicant or his agent.
(2) An application to register a trade mark for a specification of goods or services included in
any one class shall be made in Form TM-1.
(3) An application to register a trade mark under sub-section (2) of section 154 for a
specification of goods or services included in any one class from a convention country shall be made
in Form TM-2.
(4) A single application for the registration of a trade mark for different classes of goods or
services from convention country under sub-section (2) of section 154 shall be made in Form TM-52
(5) An application to register a textile trade mark(other than a collective mark or a
certification trade mark) consisting exclusively of numerals or letters or any combination thereof for a
specification of goods included in one item of the Fifth Schedule under rule 145 shall be made in
Form TM-22.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 11
(6) An application for registration of a textile mark (other than a collective mark or a
certification trade mark) consisting exclusively of numerals or letters or any combination thereof for a
specification of goods included in one item of the Fifth Schedule under rule 145 from a convention
country under sub-section (2) of section 154 shall be made in Form TM-45.
(7) (a) An application under section 63(1) to register a collective trade mark for a
specification goods or services in any one class shall be made in Form TM-3.
( b ) An application under section 63(1) to register a collective trade mark for a
specification of goods or services in any one class from a convention country under sub-section (2) of
Section154 shall be made in Form TM-64.
(8) (a) An application under section 71 to register a certification trade mark for a specification
of goods or services included in any one class shall be made in Form TM-4.
( b ) An application under section 71 to register a certification trade mark for a
specification of goods or services in any one class from a convention country under sub-section (2) of
Section 154 shall be made in Form TM-65.
(9) A single application for the registration of a trade mark for different classes of goods or
services shall be made in Form TM-51.
(10) An application to register a series trade marks under section 15 for a specification of
goods or services included in a class or for different classes shall be made in Form TM-8.
(11) An application to register a series trade mark under section 15 for a specification of
goods or services included in a class or for different classes from a convention country under sub-
section (2) of section 154 shall be made in Form TM-37.
(12) An application for the registration of a trade mark, for goods or services shall –
a) explain with sufficient precision, a description by words, of the trade mark if
necessary ,to determine the right of the applicant;
b) be able to depict the graphical representation of the trade mark;
c) be considered as a three dimensional trade mark only if the application contains a
statement to that effect.
d) be considered as a trade mark consisting of a combination of colours only if the
application contains a statement to that effect;
(13) An amendment to divide an application under proviso to section 22 shall be made in
Form TM-53.
(14) An application, not being a series trade mark shall be in respect of one trade mark only
for as many class or classes of goods or services as may be made .
(15) In the case of an application for registration in respect of all the goods or services
included in a class or of a large variety of goods or services in a class, the Registrar may refuse to
accept the application unless he is satisfied that the specification is justified by the use of the mark
which the applicant has made or intends to make if and when it is registered.
(16) The specification of goods or services should not ordinarily exceed five hundred
characters for each class. An excess space fee as prescribed in the First Schedule is payable with
each application in Form TM-61.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 12
(17) A single application for the registration of a collective mark-
(a) in different classes shall be made in Form TM-66
(b) in different classes from a convention country shall be made in Form TM-67.
(18) A single application for the registration of certification trade mark –
(a) in different classes shall be made in Form TM-68.
(b) in different classes from a convention country shall be made in Form TM-69.
(19) Where an applicant files a single application for more classes than one and the
Registrar determines that the goods or services applied for fall in class or classes in addition to those
applied for, the applicant may restrict the specification of goods or services to the class applied for oramend the application to add additional class or classes on payment of the appropriate class fee and
the divisional fee. The new class created through a division retains the benefit of the original filing
date or in the case of an application from a convention country the convention application date under
sub-section (2) of Section 154 provided the claim was otherwise properly asserted in the initial
application.
26. Application under convention arrangement . - (1) Where a right to priority is claimed by
reason of an application for registration of a trade mark duly filed in a convention country under
section 154 a certificate by the Registry or competent authority of that trade marks office shall be
included in an application for registration under sub-ru le (3), (4), (6), (7)(b), (8)(b), (11), (17)(b) or
(18)(b) of rule 25, as the case may be, and it shall include the particulars of the mark, the country or
countries and the date or dates of filing of application and such other relevant particulars as may be
required by the Registrar..
(2) Unless such certificate has been filed at the time of the filing of the application for
registration, there shall be filed, within two months of the filing of such application certifying or
verifying to the satisfaction of the Registrar, the date of the filing of the application, the country, the
representation of the mark, and the goods or services covered by the application.
(3) The application shall include a statement indicating the date of filing in the convention
application, the name of the convention country where it was filed, the serial number, if any and a
statement indicating that priority is claimed.
Provided that where the applicant files more priority claims than one under section 154 for
some or all the goods or services in respect of the same trade mark, the Registrar shall also take the
date of the earlier application in a convention country, as the priority date:
Provided further that such priority date shall only be in respect of all or some of the goods or
services referred to in the earlier convention application.
(4) Where a single application under sub-section (2) of section 18 is filed from a convention
country for one or more classes of goods or services, the applicant shall establish a sufficient groundto the satisfaction of the Registrar for the date of filing of application in all such classes.
27. Statement of user in applications .- An application to register a trade mark shall, unless the
trade mark is proposed to be used, contain a statement of the period during which, and the person by
whom it has been used in respect of the goods or se rvices mentioned in the application. The Registrar
may require the applicant to file an affidavit testifyi ng to such user with exhibits showing the mark as
used.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 13
28. Representation of mark .- (1) Every application for the registration of a trade mark, and
where additional copies of the application are required every such copy, shall contain a representation
of the mark in the space (8cm x 8 cm) provided on the application form for that purpose:
Provided that in any case the size of such representation shall not exceed 33 centimetres by 20
centimetres with a margin of 4 centimetres on the left hand side.
29 Additional representations .- (1) Every application for registration of a trade mark shall,
except as hereinafter provided, be made in triplicate and shall be accompanied by five additional
representations of the mark. The representations of the mark on the application and each of its copies
and the additional representations shall correspond exactly with one another. The additional
representations shall in all cases be noted with the specification and class of goods or services for
which registration is sought , the name and address of the applicant, together with the name andaddress of his agent, if any, the period of use, if any, and such other particulars as may from time to
time be required by the Registrar and shall be signed by the applicant or his agent.
(2) Where an application contains a statement to the effect that the applicant wishes to claim
combination of colours as a distinctive feature of the mark, the application shall be accompanied withone reproduction of the mark in black and white and four reproduction of the mark in colour.
(3) Where the application contains a statement to the effect that the trade mark is a three
dimensional mark, the reproduction of the mark shall consist of a two dimensional graphic or
photographic reproduction as follows, namely:-
(i) The reproduction furnished shall consist of three different view of the trade
mark;
(ii) Where, however, the Registrar considers that the reproduction of the mark
furnished by the applicants does not sufficiently show the particulars of thethree dimensional mark, he may call upon the applicant to furnish within two
months up to five further different views of the mark and a description by
words of the mark;
(iii) Where the Registrar considers the different views and/or description of the
mark referred to in clause (ii) still do not sufficiently show the particulars ofthe three dimensional mark, he may call upon the applicant to furnish a
specimen of the trade mark.
(4) (i) Where an application for the registration of a trade mark consists of shape of goods or
its packaging, the reproduction furnished shall consist of at least five different views of the trade mark
and a description by word of the mark.
(ii) If the Registrar considers the different views and description of the mark in sub-
clause (i) still does not sufficiently show the particulars of the shape of goods or its packaging, he may
call upon the applicant to furnish a specimen of the goods or packaging as the case may be.
30. Representations to be durable and satisfactory. - (1)All representations of trade marks
shall be of a durable nature, and each additional representation required to be filed with an applicationfor registration shall be mounted on a sheet of strong paper of the size of approximately 33
centimetres by 20 centimetres, leaving a margin of not less than 4 centimetres on the left hand part of
the sheet.
(2) If the Registrar is not satisfied with any representation of a mark he may at any time
require another representation satisfactory to him to be substituted before proceedings with the
application.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 14
(3) Where representation of a trade mark cannot be given in the manner set forth hereinabove,
a specimen or copy of the trade mark may be sent either in full size or on a reduced scale and in such
form as the Registrar may think most convenient.
31. Series trade marks. – (1) Where an application is made for the registration of series trade
marks under sub-section (3) of section 15, copies of representation of each trade mark of the seriesshall accompany the application in the manner set forth in rules 28 and 29.
(2) An applicant claiming to be the proprietor of a series trade mark under sub-section (3) of
section 15 may apply to the Registrar on Form TM-8 or TM-37 , as the case may be, for its
registration as a series for one registration and there shall be included in each such application a
representation of the all trade marks in a class or in each class claimed to be in the series. The
Registrar shall, if satisfied that the marks constitutes a series proceed further with the applications.
(3) At any time before the publication of the application in the Journal, the applicant applying
under sub-rule (2) may request on Form TM-53, for the division of the application into separate
application or applications, as the case may be, in respect of one or more marks in that series and the
Registrar shall, if he is satisfied that the division requested conforms with sub-section(3) of section15, divide the application or applications accordingly.
(4) The division of an application into one or more applications under sub-rule (3) shall be on
the payment of a divisional fee and such class fees as are appropriate.
32. Request for a search of a company name. - Any person may, after the Registrar has
informed the public in the Journal permitting a request in Form TM-11 request the Registrar to cause
a search to be made and for issuance of a certificate pursuant to clause (ii) of sub-section (2) of
section 20 of the Companies Act, 1956 (1 of 1956) to the effect that no trade mark identical with or
deceptively similar to the name of the company in respect of which the request is made has been
registered as a trade mark or is pending under the Trade Marks Act, 1999 (47 of 1999)
33. Transliteration and translation . - Where a trade mark contains a word or words in scripts
other than Hindi or English, there shall be endorsed on the application form and the additional
representations thereof, a sufficient transliteration and translation to the satisfaction of the Registrarof each such word in English or in Hindi and every such endorsement shall state the language to
which the word belongs and shall be signed by the applicant or his agent.
34. Names and representations of living persons or persons recently dead . - Where the name
or representation of any person appears on a trad e mark the applicant shall, if the Registrar so
requires, furnish him with the consent in writing of such person in case he is living or, in case his
death took place within twenty years prior to the da te of the application for registration of the trade
mark, of his legal representative, as the case may be, to the use of the name or representation and in
default of such consent the Registrar may refuse to proceed with the application for registration of the
trade mark.
35. Name or description of goods or services on a trade mark . - (1) Where the name or
description of any goods or services appears on a trade mark, the Registrar may refuse to register such
mark in respect of any goods or services other than the goods or services so named or described.
(2) Where the name or description of any goods or services appear on a trade mark, which
name or description in use varies, the Registrar may permit the registration of the trade mark for thoseand other goods or services on the applicant giving an undertaking that the name or description will
be varied when the trade mark is used upon goods or services covered by the specification other thanIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 15
the named or described goods or services. The undertaking so given shall be included in the
advertisement of the application in the Journal under section 20.
36. Deficiencies. – Subject to sub-rule (2) of rule 11, where an application for registration of a
trade mark does not satisfy the requirement of any of the provisions of the Act or rules, the Registrar
shall send notice thereof to the applicant to remedy the deficiencies and if within one month of thedate of the notice the applicant fails to remedy any deficiency so notified to him, the application shall
be treated as abandoned.
PROCEDURE ON RECEIPT OF APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF A TRADE
MARK
37. Acknowledgement and Search .– (1) Every application for the registration of a trade mark in
respect of any goods or services shall on receipt, be acknowledged by the Registrar. The
acknowledgement shall be by way of return of one of the additional representations of the trade mark
filed by the applicant along with his application, with the official number of the application dulyentered thereon.
(2) Upon receipt of the application for registration of trade mark, the Registrar shall cause a
search to be made amongst the registered trade marks and amongst the pending applications for the
purpose of ascertaining whether there are on record in respect of the same goods or services or similargoods or services any mark identical with or deceptively similar to the mark sought to be registered
and the Registrar may cause the search to be renewed at any time before the acceptance of the
application but shall not be bound to do so.
38. Expedited examination, objection to acceptance, hearing.- (1) After the receipt of the
official number of an application under sub-rule (1) of rule 37 an applicant may request for
expedited examination of an application for the registration of a trade mark in Form TM-63 together
with a declaration stating the reason for the request, on payment of five times the application fee.
(2) If the Registrar is satisfied on the basis of declaration filed under sub-rule(1) that an
expedited examination of the application is warranted, he shall cause the expedited examination of
such application in the order in which the requests are filed and may ordinarily issue the examination
report within three months of the date of such request.
(3) Where the Registrar declines the request under sub-rule (1), the applicant shall be entitled
to have the fee refunded:
Provided that before declining any such request, th e Registrar shall provide the applicant an
opportunity of being heard.
(4) If, on consideration of an application for registration of a trade mark or on an application
for an expedited examination of an application referred to in sub-rule(1) and any evidence of use or of
distinctiveness or of any other matter which the applicant may or may be required to furnish, theRegistrar has any objection to the acceptance of the application or proposes to accept it subject to such
conditions, amendments, modifications or limitations as he may think right to impose under sub-
section (4) of section 18, , the Registrar shall communicate such objection or proposal in writing to
the applicant.
(5) If within one month from the date of communication mentioned in sub-rule (4), the
applicant fails to comply with any such proposa l or fails to submit his comments regarding anyIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 16
objection or proposal to the Registrar or apply for a hearing or fails to attend the hearing, the
application shall be deemed to have been abandoned.
39. Notice of withdrawal of application for registration. - A notice of withdrawal of an
application for the registration of a trade mark under sub-section 2 of section 133, or sub-rule (2) of
rule 24, for the purpose of obtaining repayment of an y fee paid on the filing of the application, shall
be given in writing within one month from the date of the communication mentioned in sub-rule (4) of
rule 38.
40. Decision of Registrar . - (1) The decision of the Registrar under rule 38 or rule 42 after a
hearing or without a hearing if the applicant has duly communicated his observations in writing and
has stated that he does not desire to be heard, shall be communicated to the applicant in writing and if
the applicant intends to appeal from such decision he may within thirty days from the date of suchcommunication apply on Form TM-15 to the Registrar requiring him to state in writing the grounds
of, and the materials used by him in arriving at, his decision.
(2) In a case where the Registrar makes any requirements to which the applicant does not
object the applicant shall comply therewith before the Registrar issues a statement in writing under
sub-rule (1).
(3) The date when the statement in writing under sub-rule (1) is received shall be deemed to
be the date of the Registrar's decision for the purpose of appeal.
41. Correction and amendment of application . - An applicant for registration of a trade mark
may, whether before or after acceptance of his application but before the registration of the mark,
apply on Form TM-16 _accompanied by the prescribed fee for the correction of any error in or in
connection with his application or any amendment of his application:
Provided, however, no such amendment shall be permitted which shall have the effect of
substantially altering the trade mark applied or substitute a new specification of goods or services not
included in the application as filed.
42. Withdrawal of acceptance by the Registrar . - (1) If, after the acceptance of an application
but before the registration of the trade mark, the Registrar has any objection to the acceptance of the
application on the ground that it was accepted in error, or that the mark ought not to have been
accepted in the circumstances of the case, or proposes that the mark should be registered only subject
to conditions, limitations, divisions or to conditions additional to or different from the conditions, or
limitations, subject to which the application has been accepted, the Registrar shall communicate such
objection in writing to the applicant.
(2) Unless within thirty days from the date of the communication mentioned in sub-rule (1)
the applicant amends his application to comply with the requirements of the Registrar or applies for a
hearing , the acceptance of the application shall be deemed to be withdrawn by the Registrar, and the
application shall proceed as if it had not been accepted.
(3) Where the applicant intimates the Registrar within the period mentioned in sub-rule (2)
that he desires to be heard, the Registrar shall give notice to the applicant of a date when he will hear
him. Such appointment shall be for a date at least 15 days after the date of the notice, unless the
applicant consents to a shorter notice. The applicant may state that he does not desire to be heard and
submit such submissions, as he may consider desirable.
(4) The Registrar may, after hearing the applicant, on considering the submissions, if any, of
the applicant, pass such orders as he may deem fit.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 17
ADVERTISEMENT OF APPLICATION
43. Manner of Advertisement . - (1) Every application for the registration of a trade mark
required to be advertised by sub-section (1) of section 20 or to be re-advertised by sub-Section (2) ofthat section shall be advertised in the Journal ordinarily within six months of the acceptance of an
application for registration or after the expiry of the period referred to sub-section (2) of section 154
whichever is later.
(2) Where a trade mark applied is other than a word, the Registrar may call upon the applicant
to furnish a camera ready copy of the trade mark orde red to be advertised to scan electronically into a
Desk Top publishing package.
(3) The Registrar may after informing the public in the Journal, put the applications published
in the Journal on the internet, web site or any other electronic media.
(4) The Registrar may after informing the public in the Journal make available the Journal in
CD-ROM on payment of the cost thereof.
44. Advertisement of series . – Where an application relates to a series trade marks differing
from one another in respect of the particulars mentioned in sub-section (3) of section 15, the
Registrar may, if he thinks fit, insert with the advertisement of the application a statement of the
manner in which the several trade marks differ from one another.
45. Notification of correction or amendment of application. - In the case of an application to
which clause (b) of sub-section (2) of section 20 applies, the Registrar may, if he so decides, instead
of causing the application to be advertised again, insert in the Journal a notification setting out thenumber of the application, the class or classes in which it was made, the name and address of the
principal place of business in India, if any, of the applicant or where the applicant has no principal
place of business in India his address for service in India, the Journal number in which it was
advertised and the correction or amendment made in the application.
46. Request to Registrar for particulars of advertisement of a mark . - Any person may
request the Registrar on Form TM-58 to be informed of the number, and of the Journal in which a
trade mark which is sought to be registered specified in the Form was advertised and the Registrar
shall furnish such particulars to the person making the request.
OPPOSITION TO REGISTRATION
47. Notice of Opposition.-(1) A notice of opposition to the registration of a trade mark under
sub-section (1) of section 21 shall be given in triplicate on Form TM-5 within three months or within
such further period not exceeding one month in the aggregate from the date of the Journal is made
available to the public (which date shall be certified by the Registrar as such). The notice shallinclude a statement of the grounds upon which the opponent objects to the registration. If the
registration is opposed on the ground that the trade marks in question resembles trade marks already
on the register, the registration numbers of such trade marks and the dates of the Journals in which
they have been advertised shall be set out.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 18
(2) Where a notice of opposition has been filed in respect of a single application for the
registration of a trade mark, it shall bear the fee in respect of each class in relation to which the
opposition is filed in Form TM-5
(3) Where an opposition is filed only for a particular class or classes in respect of a single
application made under sub-section (2) of section 18, the application for remaining class or classesshall not proceed to registration until a request in Form TM-53 for division of the application together
with the divisional fee is made by the applicant.
(4)Where in respect of a single application for the registration of a trade mark no notice of
opposition is filed in a class or classes, the application in respect of such class or classes shall, subject
to section 19 and sub-section (1) of section 23, proceed to registration after the division of the
application in the class or classes in respect of which an opposition is pending.
(5) All notices of opposition to the registration of a trade mark for goods or services received
in respect of a particular journal shall be published in the Journal:
Provided that nothing in this sub-rule shall be co nstrued to presume that all remaining trade
marks from a particular journal so notified shall automatically proceed to registration.
(6)An application for an extension of the period within which a notice of opposition to the
registration of a trade mark may be given under sub-section (1) of section 21, shall be made on Form
TM-44 accompanied by the fee prescribed in First Schedule before the expiry of the period of three
months under sub-section (1) of Section 21.
(7)A copy of notice of opposition shall be ordinarily served by the Registrar to the applicants
within three months of the receipt of the same by the appropriate office.
48. Requirements of Notice of Opposition -(1) A notice of opposition shall contain:-
a) in respect of an application against which opposition is entered –
(i) the application number against which opposition is entered.
(ii) an indication of the goods or services listed in the trade mark application against
which opposition is entered; and
(iii) the name of the applicant for the trade mark.
b) in respect of the earlier mark or the earl ier right on which the opposition is based –
(i) Where the opposition is based on an earlier mark, a statement to that effect and an
indication of the status of earlier mark;
(ii) Where available, the application number or registration number and the filing date,
including the priority date of the earlier mark;
(iii) Where the opposition is based on an earlier mark which is alleged to be a well-known
mark within the meaning of sub-section 2 of section 11, an indication to that effect
and an indication of the country or countries in which the earlier mark is recognisedto be well known;
(iv) where the opposition is based on an earlier trade mark having a reputation within the
meaning of paragraph (b) of sub-clause (2) of section 11 of the Act, an indication to
that effect and an indication of whether the earlier mark is registered or applied for;
(v) a representation of the mark of the opponent and where appropriate, a description of
the mark or earlier right; and
(vi) Where the goods or services in respect of which earlier mark has been registered or
applied for or in respect of which the earlier mark is well known within the meaningIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 19
of Sub-section (2) of Section 11 or has a reputation within the meaning of that
section the opponent shall when indicating all the goods or services for which the
earlier mark is protected, also indicate those goods or services on which the
opposition is based.
c) in respect of the opposing party –
(i) where the opposition is entered by the proprietor of the earlier mark or of the earlier
right, his name and address and an indication that he is the proprietor of such mark or
right;
(ii) where opposition is entered by a licensee not being a registered user, the name of the
licensee and his address and an indication that he has been authorised to enter the
opposition;
(iii) where the opposition is entered by the successor in title to the registered proprietor of
a trade mark who has not yet been registered as new proprietor, an indication to that
effect, the name and address of the opposing party and an indication of the date on
which the application for registration of the new proprietor was received by the
appropriate office or, where this information is not available, was sent to theappropriate office; and
(iv) where the opposing party has no place of business in India, the name of the
opponents and his address for service in India.
d) The grounds on which the opposition is based.
2) A notice of opposition shall be verified at the foot by the opponent or by some other person
who is acquainted with the facts of the case.
3) the person verifying shall state specifically by reference to the numbered paragraphs of the
notice of opposition, what he verifies of his own knowledge and what he verifies upon information
received and believed to be true.
4) the verification shall be signed by the person making it and shall state the date on which
and the place at which it was signed.
49. Counterstatement.- (1) The counterstatement required by sub-section (2) of section 21 shall
be sent in triplicate on Form TM-6 within two months from the receipt by the applicant of the copy
of the notice of opposition from the Registrar and shall set out what facts, if any, alleged in the notice
of opposition, are admitted by the applicant. A copy of the counterstatement shall be ordinarily served
by the Registrar to the opponent within two months from the date of receipt of the same.
(2) The counterstatement shall be verified in the same manner as the notice of opposition as
stated in clause (e)(i) of rule 48.
50. Evidence in support of opposition.- (1) Within two months from services on him of a copy
of the counterstatement or within such further period not exceeding one month in the aggregatethereafter as the Registrar may on request allow, the opponent shall either leave with the Registrar,
such evidence by way of affidavit as he may desire to adduce in support of his opposition or shall
intimate to the Registrar and to the applicant in writing that he does not desire to adduce evidence in
support of his opposition but intends to rely on the facts stated in the notice of opposition. He shall
deliver to the applicant copies of any evidence th at he leaves with the Registrar under this sub-rule
and intimate the Registrar in writing of such delivery.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 20
(2) If an opponent takes no action under sub-rule (1) within the time mentioned therein, he
shall be deemed to have abandoned his opposition.
(3) An application for the extension of the period of one month mentioned in sub-rule (1)
shall be made in Form TM-56 accompanied by the prescribed fee before the expiry of the period of
two months mentioned therein.
51. Evidence in support of application.- (1) Within two months or within such further period
not exceeding one month in the aggregate thereafter as the Registrar may on request allow, on the
receipt by the applicant of the copies of affidavits in support of opposition or of the intimation that
the opponent does not desire to adduce any evidence in support of his opposition, the applicant shall
leave with the Registrar such evidence by way of affidavit as he desires to adduce in support of his
application and shall deliver to the opponent copies thereof or shall intimate to the Registrar and theopponent that he does not desire to adduce any evidence but intends to rely on the facts stated in the
counterstatement and or on the evidence already left by him in connection with the application in
question. In case the applicant relies on any evidence already left by him in connection with the
application, he shall deliver to the opponent copies thereof.
(2) An application for the extension of the period of one month mentioned in sub-rule (1)
shall be made in Form TM-56 accompanied by the prescribed fee before the expiry of the period of
two months mentioned therein.
52. Evidence in reply by opponent.- Within one month from the receipt by the opponent of the
copies of the applicant's affidavit or within such further period not exceeding one month in the
aggregate thereafter as the Registrar may on request in Form TM-56 allow, the opponent may leave
with the Registrar evidence by affidavit in reply and shall deliver to the applicant copies thereof. This
evidence shall be confined to matters strictly in reply.
53. Further evidence.- No further evidence shall be left on either side, but in any proceedings
before the Registrar, he may at any time, if he thin ks fit, give leave to either the applicant or the
opponent to leave any evidence upon such terms as to costs or otherwise as he may think fit.
54. Exhibits.- Where there are exhibits to affidavits filed in an opposition a copy or impression
of each exhibit shall be sent to the other party on his request and at his expense, or, if such copies or
impression cannot conveniently be furnished, the originals shall be left with the Registrar in order that
they may be open to inspection. The original exhibits shall be produced at the hearing unless the
Registrar otherwise directs.
55. Translation of documents. - Where a document is in a language other than Hindi or English
and is referred to in the notice of opposition , counterstatement or an affidavit filed in an oppositionproceeding, an attested translation thereof in Hindi or English shall be furnished in duplicate.
56. Hearing and decision.- (1) Upon completion of the evidence if any, the Registrar shall give
notice to the parties of the first date of hearing. Such notice shall be ordinarily given within three
months of completion of the evidence. The date of hearing shall be for a date at least one month afterthe date of the first notice. Within fourteen days from the receipt of the first notice, any party who
intends to appear shall so notify the Registrar on Form TM-7. Any party who does not so notify the
Registrar within the time as aforesaid may be treated as not desiring to be heard and the Registrar may
act accordingly in the matter.
(2) If sufficient cause for adjournment is not shown by either of the parties the Registrar may
proceed with the matter forthwith.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 21
(3) If the applicant is not present at the adjourned date of hearing and has not notified his
intention to attend the hearing in Form TM-7, the application may be treated as abandoned.
(4) If the opponent is not present at the adjourned date of hearing and has not notified his
intention to attend the hearing in Form TM-7, the opposition may be dismissed for want of
prosecution and the application may proceed to registration subject to Section 19.
(5) In every case of adjournment the Registrar shall fix a day for further hearing of the case
and shall make such order as to cost occasioned by the adjournment or such higher costs as the
Registrar deems fit.
(6) The fact that the agent or advocate on record of a party is engaged in another court, shall
not be a ground for adjournment.
(7) Where illness of legal practitioner or an agent or his inability to conduct the case for any
reason is put forward as a ground for adjournment, the Registrar may refuse to grant grant the
adjournment unless it is satisfied that the legal practitioner or an agent, as the case may be, could not
have engaged another agent or legal practitioner in time.
(8) The Registrar shall take on record written arguments if submitted by a party to the
proceeding.
(9) The decision of the Registrar shall be notified to the parties in writing.
57. Security for costs.- The security for costs which the Registrar may require under sub-section
(6) of section 21 may be fixed at any amount whic h he may consider proper, and such amount may be
further enhanced by him at any stage in the opposition proceedings.
NOTICE OF NON-COMPLETION OF REGISTRATION
58. Procedure for giving notice .-The notice which the Registrar is required by sub-section(3) of
section 23 to give to an applicant, shall be sent on Form O-1 to the applicant at the address of hisprincipal place of business in India or if he has no principal place of business in India at the address
for service in India stated in the application but if the applicant has authorised an agent for the
purpose of the application, the notice shall be sent to the agent and a duplicate thereof to the applicant.
The notice shall specify twenty one days time from the date thereof or such further time not exceeding
one month as the Registrar may allow on a request made in form TM-56 for completion of the
registration.
REGISTRATION
59. Entry in the Register.- (1) Where no notice of opposition to an application advertised or re-
advertised in the Journal is filed within the period specified in sub-section (1) of section 21, or where
an opposition is filed and it is dismissed, the Registrar shall, subject to the provisions of sub-
section (1) of section 23 or section 19, enter the trade mark on the register.
(2) The entry of a trade mark in the register shall specify the date of filing of application, the
actual date of the registration, the goods or services and the class or classes in respect of which it is
registered, and all particulars required by sub-section (1) of section 6 including –IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 22
(a) the address of the principal place of business in India, if any, of the proprietor of the
trade mark or in the case of a jointly owned trade mark, of such of the joint
proprietors of the trade mark as have a principal place of business in India.
(b) where the proprietor of the trade mark has no place of business in India his address
for service in India as entered in the application for registration together with hisaddress in his home country.
(c) in the case of a jointly owned trade mark, where none of the joint proprietors has a
principal place of business in India, the address for service in India as given in the
application together with the address of each of the joint proprietors in his home
country.
(d) the particulars of the trade, business, profession, occupation or other description of
the proprietor or, in the case of a jointly owned trade mark, of the joint proprietors ofthe trade mark as entered in the application for registration.
(e) the particulars affecting the scope of the registration or the rights conferred by the
registration,
(f) The convention application date (if any), to be accorded pursuant to an application
from applicants of a convention country made under section 154.
(g) where the mark is a collective or certification mark, that fact;
(h) Where the mark is registered pursuant to sub-section 4 of section 11 with the consent
of the proprietor of an earlier trade mark or other earlier right, that fact; and.
(i) the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry in relation to the trade mark.
(3) The Registrar may from time to time, in co nsultation with computer experts, formulate
guidelines for keeping official records in electronic form.
60. Associated marks .- (1) Where a trade mark is registered as associated with any other marks,
the Registrar shall note in the register in connection with the first mentioned mark the registrationnumbers of the marks with which it is associated an d shall also note in the register in connection with
each of the associated marks the registration number of the first mentioned mark as being a mark
associated therewith.
(2) An application under sub-section (5) of section 16 to dissolve the association as respects
any of the trade marks registered as associated trade marks shall be made in Form TM-14 and shall
include statement of the grounds of the application.
61. Death of applicant before registration.- In case of death of any applicant for the registration
of a trade mark after the date of his application and before the trade mark has been entered in the
register, the Registrar may, on proof of the applicant's death and on proof of the transmission of the
interest of the deceased person, substitute in the application his successor in interest in place of thename of such deceased applicant and the application may proceed thereafter as so amended.
62. Certificate of registration.- (1) The certificate of registration of a trade mark to be issued by
the Registrar under sub-section (2) of section 23 shall be on Form O-2. with such modification as the
circumstances of any case may require, and the Registrar shall annex a copy of the trade mark to thecertificate.
(2) The certificate of registration referred to in sub-rule (1) shall not be used in legal
proceedings or for obtaining registration abroad.
(3) The Registrar may issue a duplicate or further copies of the certificate of registration on
request by the registered proprietor on Form TM-59 accompanied by the prescribed fee. AnIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 23
unmounted representation of the mark exactly as shown in the form of application for registration
thereof at the time of registration shall accompany such request.
CHAPTER III
RENEWAL OF REGISTRATION AND RESTORATION
63. Renewal of registration.- (1) An application for the renewal of the registration of a trade
mark shall be made on Form TM-12 and may be made at any time not more than six months before
the expiration of the last registration of the trade mark.
(2) Such application for renewal must be filed by the person who is the proprietor of the
registered trade mark or his agent.
(3) If the proprietor, as set forth in the application for renewal is not the same person or the
same legal entity as the registered proprietor, continuity of title from the registered proprietor inwhose name the last renewal was effected to the pr esent owner must be shown in the first instance by
way of affidavit along with supporting chain of documents.
(4) The Registrar may accept an application for renewal from the managing trustee, executors,
administrators and the like, when supported by court order or other evidence of authority to act onbehalf of the present proprietor.
64. Notice before removal of trade mark from register -(1) At a date not less than one month
and not more than three months before the expiration of the last registration of a trade mark, if no
application on Form TM-12 for renewal of the registration together with the prescribed fee has been
received, the Registrar shall notify the registered proprietor or in the case of a jointly registered trade
mark each of the joint registered proprietors and each registered user, if any, in writing on Form O-3
of the approaching expiration at the address of their respective principal places of business in India as
entered in the register or where such registered proprietor or registered user has no principal place of
business in India at his address for service in India entered in the Register.
(2) Where, in the case of a mark the registration of which (by reference to the date of
application for registration) becomes due for renewal, the mark is registered at any time within six
months before the date on which renewal is due, the registration may be renewed by the payment of
the renewal fee within six months after the actual date of registration and where the renewal fee is not
paid within that period the Registrar shall subject to rule 66, remove the mark from the register.
(3) Where, in the case of a mark the registration of which (by reference to the date of
application for registration) becomes due for renewal, the mark is registered after the date of renewal,
the registration may be renewed by the payment of the renewal fee within six months of the actual
date of registration and where the renewal fee is not paid within that period the Registrar shall, subject
to rule 66, remove the mark from the register.
(4) The renewal of registration of a collective mark or a certification trade mark shall be in
Form TM-12 along with the prescribed fee specified in the First Schedule.
65. Advertisement of removal of trade mark from the register.- If at the expiration of last
registration of a trade mark, the renewal fees has not been paid, the Registrar may remove the trade
mark from the register and advertise the fact forthwith in the Journal:IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 24
Provided that the Registrar shall not remove the trad e mark from the register if an application
for payment of surcharge is made under proviso to sub-section(3) of section 25 in Form TM-10
within six months from the expiration of the last registration of the trade mark.
66. Restoration and renewal of registration.- An application for the restoration of a trade
mark to the register and renewal of its registration under sub-section (4) of section 25, shall be madein Form TM-13 after six months and within one year from the expiration of the last registration of
the trade mark accompanied by the prescribed fee. The Registrar shall, while considering the request
for such restoration and renewal have regard to the interest of other affected persons.
67. Notice and advertisement of renewal and restoration.- Upon the renewal or restoration and
renewal of registration, a notice to that effect shall be sent to the registered proprietor and every
registered user and the renewal or restoration and renewal shall be advertised in the Journal.
CHAPTER IV
ASSIGNMENT AND
TRANSMISSION
68. Application for entry of assignment or transmission.- An application to register the title of
a person who becomes entitled by assignment or transmission to a registered trade mark shall be made
on Form TM-24 o r TM-23 according as it is made by such person alone or conjointly with the
registered proprietor.
69. Particulars to be stated in application.- An application under rule 68 shall contain full
particulars of the instrument, if any, under which the applicant, or, in the case of a joint application,
the person other than the registered proprietor claims to be entitled to the trade mark and such
instrument or a duly certified copy thereof shall be produced at the Trade Marks Registry forinspection at the time of application. The Registrar may require and retain an attested copy of any
instrument produced for inspection in proof of title.
70. Case accompanying application.- Where a person applying under rule 68 for registration of
his title, does not establish his claim under any document or instrument which is capable in itself offurnishing proof of his title, he shall, unless the Registrar otherwise directs, either upon or with the
application, state a case setting forth the full particulars of the facts upon which his claim to be
proprietor of the trade mark is based, and showing that the trade mark has been assigned or
transmitted to him. If the Registrar so requires, the case shall be verified by an affidavit on Form
TM-18
71. Proof of title.- The Registrar may call upon any person who applies to be registered as
proprietor of a registered trade mark to furnish such proof or additional proof of title as he may
require for his satisfaction.
72. Impounding of Instruments.- If in the opinion of the Registrar any instrument produced in
proof of title of a person is not properly or sufficiently stamped, the Registrar shall impound and dealwith it in the manner provided by Chapter IV of the Indian Stamp Act, 1899.(2 of 1899)
73. Assignments involving transmissi on of moneys outside India - If there is in force any law
regulating the transmission of moneys outside India, the Registrar shall not register the title of a
person who becomes entitled to a trade mark by an assignment which involves such transmissionexcept on production of the permission of the authority specified in such law for such transmission.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 25
74. Application for Registrar's direction as to advertisement of an assignment of a trade
mark without goodwill of the business.- (1) An application for directions under section 42 shall be
made on Form TM-20 and shall state the date on which the assignment was made. The application
shall give particulars of the registration in the case of a registered trade mark, and in the case of an
unregistered mark shall show the mark and give particulars including user of the unregistered trademark that has been assigned therewith. The Registrar may call for any evidence or further
information and if he is satisfied with regard to the various matters he shall issue directions in writing
with respect to the advertisement of the assignment.
(2) The Registrar may refuse to consider such an application in a case to which section 41
applies, unless his approval has been obtained under the said section and a reference identifying the
Registrar's notification of approval is included in the application.
(3) A request for an extension of the period within which the application mentioned in sub-
rule (1) shall be made shall be on Form TM-21.
75. Application for entry of assignment without goodwill.- An application under rule 68
relating to an assignment of a trade mark in respect of any goods or services shall state –
(a) whether the trade mark had been or was used in the business in any of those goods or
services, and
(b) whether the assignment was made otherwise than in connection with the goodwill of
that business,
and if both those circumstances subsisted, then the applicant shall leave at the Trade Marks
Registry a copy of the directions to advert ise the assignment, obtained upon application under
rule 74, and such proof, including copies of advertisements or otherwise, as the Registrar may
require, to show that his directions have been fulfilled and if the Registrar is not satisfied thatthe directions have been fulfilled, he shall not proceed with the application.
76. Separate registration.- Where pursuant to an application under rule 68, and as the result of a
division and separation of the goods or services of a registration or a division and separation of places
or markets, different persons become registered separately under the same registration number assubsequent proprietors of a trade mark, each of the resulting separate registrations in the names of
those different persons shall be deemed to be a separate registration for all the purposes of the Act.
77. Registrar's certificate or approval as to certain assignment and transmissions.- Any
person who desires to obtain the Registrar's certificate under sub-section 2 of section 40 or his
notification of approval under section 41 shall send to the Registrar with his application on Form
TM-17 or Form TM-19, as the case may be, a statement of case in duplicate setting out the
circumstances and a copy of any instrument or proposed instrument effecting the assignment or
transmission. The Registrar may call for any eviden ce or further information that he may consider
necessary and the statement of case shall be amended if required to include all the relevant
circumstances and shall, if required, be verified by an affidavit. The Registrar, after hearing (if so
required) the applicant and any other person whom the Registrar may consider to be interested in thetransfer, shall consider the matter and issue a certificate thereon or a notification in writing of
approval or disapproval thereof, as the case may be, to the applicant and shall also inform such other
person accordingly. Where a statement of case is amended, three copies thereof in its final form shall
be left at the Trade Marks Registry. The Registrar shall seal a copy of the statement of case in its
final form to the certificate or notification.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 26
78. Entry in register, of particulars of assignment.- Where the Registrar has allowed the
assignment of a trade mark under this Act, there shall be entered in the register the following
particulars of assignment, namely:
(i) the name and address of the assignee;
(ii) the date of the assignment;
(iii) where the assignment is in respect of any right in the mark, a description of
the right assigned;
(iv) the basis under which the assignment is made; and
(v) the date on which the entry is made in the register
79. Registration of assignment to a company under section 46.- For the purposes of sub-
section (4) of section 46, the period within which a company may be registered as the subsequentproprietor of a registered trade mark upon application made under rule 68 shall be six months from
the date of advertisement in the Journal of the regi stration of the trade mark or such further period not
exceeding six months as the Registrar may allow on application being made on Form TM-25 by the
applicant for registration of title or the registered proprietor, as the case may be, at any time before or
during the period for which the extension can be allowed.
CHAPTER V
REGISTERED USERS
80. Application for registration as registered user.- (1) An application to the Registrar for the
registration under section 49, of a person as a registered user of a registered trade mark, shall be made
jointly by that person and the registered proprietor of the trade mark in Form TM-28 and shall be
accompanied by the following document-
(a) the agreement in writing or a duly authenticated copy thereof, entered into between
the registered proprietor and the proposed registered user with respect to the
permitted use of the trade mark;
(b) the documents and correspondence, if any mentioned in the agreement referred to in
clause (a) entered into between the registered proprietor and the proposed registered
user with respect to the permitted use of the trade mark or duly authenticated copies
thereof.
(2) There shall be filed along with the application, an affidavit by the registered
proprietor or by some person authorised, to the satisfaction of the Registrar, to act on his behalftestifying to the genuineness of the documents accompanying the application and containing:
(a) the particulars and statements required by clause (b) of sub-section (1) of section 49;
(b) the precise relationship between the registered proprietor and the proposed registered
user, if any; for instance, whether their relationship is as principal and subsidiarycompany or whether there is common control between their business;
(c) a statement as to the goods or services in which the registered proprietor is dealing,
together with details as to whether the trade mark which is the subject of the
application has been used by him in the course of trade before the date of the
application and if so the amount and duration of such user;IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 27
(3) The registered proprietor and the proposed registered user shall also produce and file
such other documents and furnish such other evidence and information as may be required in that
behalf by the Registrar.
(4) No application shall be entertained unless the same has been filed within six months from
the date of the agreement referred to in clause (a)of sub-rule (1).
(5) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-rule (1), where more than one application for
registration as registered user is made by the same registered proprietor and the same proposed
registered user in respect of trade marks covered by the same agreement, the documents mentioned in
sub-rule (1) may be filed with any one of the applications and a cross reference to such documents
given in the other application or applications.
81. Particulars to be stated in the agreement.- The agreement referred to in clause (a) of sub-
rule (1) of rule 80 shall-
(a) set out the particulars specified in sub-clause (i) to (iv) of clause (b) of sub-
section (1) of section 49;
(b) disclose the terms as to royalty and other remuneration payable to the registered
proprietor by the proposed registered user for the permitted use of the trade mark;
(c) provide means for bringing the permitted use to an end when the relationship
between the parties or the control by the registered proprietor over the permitted use
ceases; and
(d) contain a condition that when the registered trade mark is used by the proposed
registered user in relation to his goods or services, other than goods or services for
export, the mark shall be so described as clearly to indicate that it is being used only
by way of permitted use.
82. Consideration by the Registrar.- The Registrar under sub-section (2) of section 49, shall, if
satisfied that the application and the accompanying documents comply with the relevant provisions
of the Act and the rules, and the matters specified in sub-clause (i) to(iv) of clause (b) of sub-section
1 of section 49, register the proposed registered user in respect of the goods or services as to which he
is so satisfied.
83. Hearing before refusing an application or to accept it conditionally. - (1) The Registrar
shall give a notice in writing to the applicants wh ere he proposes to accept the application subject to
any conditions, restrictions or limitations. The notice shall state the grounds on which the Registrar
proposes to issue such orders and shall inform the applicants that they are entitled to be heard.
(2) Unless within one month from the receipt of the notice mentioned in sub-rule (1) the
registered proprietor and the proposed registered user apply for a hearing, the Registrar may refuse the
application or to accept it conditionally, as the case may be.
(3) If the registered proprietor and the proposed registered user apply for a hearing the
Registrar shall appoint a time for the hearing within two months and shall give them not less than amonth's notice of the time so appointed.
(4) After hearing the registered proprietor and the proposed registered user, the Registrar shall
decide whether to accept the application or to refuse it or to accept it conditionally.
(5) The Registrar shall, communicate in writing his order on the application to the applicants
and to other registered users of the mark, if any.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 28
84. Entry in the register.- (1) Where the Registrar under sub-section (2) of section 49 accepts
an application for registration as registered user, he shall register the proposed registered user as
registered user.
(2) The entry of a registered user in the register shall state the date on which the application
for registration of registered user was made, which date shall be deemed to be the date of registration
as registered user of the person mentioned in the entry. The entry shall also state, in addition to the
particulars and statements mentioned in para (i) to (iv) of sub-clause (b) of clause (1) of section 49,
the name, description and principal place of business in India of the registered user and if he does not
carry on business in India his address for service in India.
85. Registration not to imply authorisation to transmit money outside India. - The
registration as registered user of a trade mark,, sh all not be deemed to imply an approval, of the
agreement in so far as it relates to the transmission of any money, as consideration for the use of the
said trade mark, to any place outside India.
86. Notification of registration as registered user.- A notification in writing of the registration
of a registered user shall be sent by the Registrar to the registered proprietor of the trade mark, to the
registered user and to every other registered user whose name is entered in relation to the same trade
mark and shall also be inserted in the Journal w ithin three months of such entry in the register.
87. Registered proprietor's application to vary entry.- An application by the registered
proprietor of a trade mark for the variation of the registration of a registered user of that trade mark
under clause (a) of sub-section (1) of section 50 shall be made on Form TM-29 a n d s h a l l b e
accompanied by a statement of the grounds on which it is made, and where the registered user in
question consents, by the written consent of the registered user.
88. Cancellation of registration of registered user.- (1) An application for the cancellation of
the registration of a registered user under sub-clause (b) to sub-clause (d) of sub-section (1) of
Section 50 shall be made on Form TM-30 or Form TM-31 , as the case may be, and shall be
accompanied by a statement of the grounds on which it is made.
(2) In case of the registration of a registered user for a period, in accordance with paragraph
(iv) of sub-clause (b) of sub-section (1) of section 49, the Registrar shall cancel the entry of the
registered user at the end of that period. Where some or all the goods or services are omitted from
those in respect of which a trade mark is registered, the Registrar shall at the same time omit them
from those specifications of registered users of the trade mark in which they are comprised. The
Registrar shall notify every cancellation or omission under this sub-rule to the registered users whose
permitted use is affected thereby and to the registered proprietor of the trade mark.
89. Power of the Registrar to call for information with respect to registered user - The
Registrar may at any time, by notice in writing, require the registered proprietor to furnish him
information under sub-section (1) of section 51 and take action in accordance with sub-section (2) of
that section.
90. Procedure on application to vary entry or cancel registration.- (1) The Registrar shall
notify in writing applications under section 50 to the registered proprietor and each registered user
(not being the applicant in either case ) of the trade mark.
(2) Any person notified under sub-rule (1) who in tends to intervene in the proceedings, shall
within one month of the receipt of such notification give notice to the Registrar in Form TM-32 to
the effect and shall send therewith a statement of the grounds of his intervention. The RegistrarIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 29
shall thereupon serve or cause to be served copies of such notice and statement on the other parties,
namely, the applicant, the registered proprietor, the registered user whose registration is the subject
matter of the proceeding in question and any other registered user who intervenes.
(3) In the case of any application made under section 50, the applicant and any person notified
under sub-rule (1), may, within such time or times as the Registrar may appoint, leave evidence in
support of his case, and the Registrar after giving the parties an opportunity of being heard, may
accept or refuse the application or accept it subject to any conditions, amendments, modifications or
limitations he may think right to impose and sh all inform the parties in writing accordingly.
(4) In the case of an application for varying any registration under paragraph (a) of sub-
section (1) of section 50 or cancelling any registration on any of the grounds mentioned in items (i)
to (iv) of sub-clause (c) of sub-section (1) of Section 50, the Registrar shall consider the applicationtogether with any notice on Form TM-32 .and statement of case filed and shall dispose of the
application and also inform the parties in writing accordingly.
91. Registered user's application .- Application under sub-section (2) of section 58 shall be
made on Form TM-16 or Form- TM-33 or Form- TM-34 or Form- TM-50 as may be appropriate by a
registered user of a trade mark or by such person as may satisfy the Registrar that he is entitled to act
in the name of a registered user; and the Registrar may require such evidence by affidavit or otherwise
as he may think fit as to the circumstances in which the application is made.
CHAPTER VI
RECTIFICATION AND CORRECTION OF REGISTER
ALTERATION OR RECTIFICATION OF REGISTER
92. Application to rectify or remove a trade mark from the register .-An application to the
Registrar under Section 47, 57, 68 or 77 for the making, expunging or varying of any entry relating
to a trade mark or a collective mark or certification trade mark in the register shall be made in
triplicate on Form TM-26, or Form TM-43, as the case may be, and shall be accompanied bystatement in triplicate setting out fully the nature of the applicant's interest, the facts upon which he
bases his case and the relief which he seeks. Where the application is made by a person who is not
the registered proprietor of the trade mark in question, the application and the statement aforesaid
shall be left at the Trade Marks Registry triplicate. In case there are registered users, such application
and statements shall be accompanied by as many copies thereof as there are registered users. A copy
each of the application and statement shall be ordinarily transmitted within one month by the
Registrar to the registered proprietor and to each of the registered user and to any other person whoappears from the register to have an interest in the trade mark. The application shall be verified in the
manner prescribed under clause(i) of sub-rule(e) of rule 48 for verification of a notice of opposition.
93. Further procedure.- Within two months from the receipt by a registered proprietor of the
copy of the application mentioned in rule 92 or within such further period not exceeding one month in
the aggregate, he shall send to the Registrar on Form TM-6 a counterstatement in triplicate of the
grounds on which the application is contested and if he does so, the Registrar shall serve a copy of the
counterstatement on the person making the application within one month of the receipt of the same.
The provisions of rules 50 to 57 shall thereafter apply mutatis mutandis to the further proceedings on
the application. The Registrar shall not, however, rectify the register or remove the mark from theregister merely because the registered proprietor has not filed a counterstatement unless he is satisfied
that the delay in filing the counterstatement is wilful and is not justified by the circumstance of the
case. In any case of doubt any party may apply to the Registrar for directions.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 30
94. Intervention by third parties. - Any person, other than the registered proprietor, alleging
interest in a registered trade mark in respect of which an application is made under rule 92 may apply
on Form TM-27 for leave to intervene, stating the nature of his interest, and the Registrar may refuse
or grant such leave after hearing (if so required) the parties concerned, upon such conditions and
terms including undertakings or conditions as to security for cost as he may deem fit to impose.
95. Rectification of the register by the Registrar of his own motion.- (1) The Notice, which
the Registrar is required to give under sub-section (4) of section 57, shall be sent in writing to the
registered proprietor, to each registered user, if any, and to any other person who appears from the
register to have any interest in the trade mark, and shall state the grounds on which the Registrar
proposes to rectify the register and shall also specify the time, not being less than one month from the
date of such notice, within which an application for a hearing shall be made.
(2) Unless within the time specified in the notice aforesaid, any person so notified sends to the
Registrar a statement in writing setting out fully the facts upon which he relies to meet the grounds
stated in the notice or applies for a hearing, he may be treated as not desiring to take part in the
proceedings and the Registrar may act accordingly.
(3) If the Registrar decides to rectify the register he shall communicate his decision in writing
to the registered proprietor and to each registered if any.
ALTERATION OF ADDRESS
96. Alteration of address in register.- (1) A registered proprietor or a registered user of a trade
mark, the address of whose principal place of business in India or whose address in his home country,as the case may be, is changed so that the entry in the register is rendered incorrect, shall forthwith
request the Registrar in Form TM-34 to make the appropriate alteration of the address in the register,
and the Registrar shall alter the register accordingly if he is satisfied in the matter.
(2) A registered proprietor or a registered user of a trade mark, whose address for service in
India entered in the register is changed, whether by discontinuance of the entered address or
otherwise, so that the entry in the register is rendered incorrect, shall forthwith request the Registrar
on Form TM-50 to make the appropriate alteration of the address in the register, and the Registrar
shall alter the register accordingly if he is satisfied in the matter.
(3) A registered proprietor or a registered user of a trade mark the address of whose principal
place of business in India or whose address for service in India is altered by a public authority, so thatthe changed address designates the same premises as entered in the register, may make the aforesaid
request to the Registrar on Form TM-34 or TM-50 as the case may be, and if he does so he shall
leave therewith a certificate of the alteration given by the said authority. If the Registrar is satisfied as
to the facts of the case, he shall alter the register accordingly but shall not require any fees to be paid
on the forms, notwithstanding the provisions of sub-rule (2) of rule 11 or sub-rule (2) of rule 12.
(4)(i) Where a registered proprietor makes a request under sub-rule (1), (2) or (3), he shall
serve a copy of the request on the registered user or users, if any, and inform the Registrar
accordingly.
(ii) where the request aforesaid is made by a registered user, he shall serve a copy thereof on
the registered proprietor and every other registered users, if any, and inform the Registrar that he had
done so.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 31
(5) In case of the alteration of the address of a person entered in the register as the address for
service in India of more than one registered proprietor or registered user of trade marks, the Registrar
may, on proof that the said address is the address of the applicant and if satisfied that it is just to do
so, accept an application from the person in Form TM-50 amended so as to suit the case, for the
appropriate alteration of the entries of his address as the address for service in the several
registrations, particulars of which shall be given in the Form and may alter the entries accordingly.
(6) All applications under this rule on Form TM-50 shall be signed by the registered
proprietor or the registered user, as the case may be, or by an agent expressly authorised by him for
the purpose of such an application, unless in exceptional circumstances the Registrar otherwise
allows.
CORRECTION OF REGISTER
97. Application for correction of register:- Where an application has been made under Sub-
section (1) of section 58 for the alteration of the register by correction, change, cancellation or
striking out of goods or services or for the entry of a memorandum, the Registrar may require the
applicant to furnish such evidence by affidavit or otherwise as he may think fit, as to the
circumstances in which the application is made. Such application shall be made in Form TM-16,
TM-33, TM-34, TM-35, TM-36, or TM-50 as may be appropriate and a copy thereof shall be
served by the applicant on the registered user or users, if any, under the registration of the trade markin question and to any other person who appears from the register to have an interest in the trade
mark.
98. Alteration of registered trade mark.- Where a person applies under section 59 for leave to
add to or alter his registered trade mark, he shall make the application in writing in Form TM-38 and
shall furnish five copies of the mark as it will appear when so added to or altered. A copy of the
application and of the trade mark so amended or altered shall be served by the applicant on every
registered user, if any.
99. Advertisement before decision and opposition etc.- (1)The Registrar shall consider the
application and shall, if it appears to him expedient, advertise the application in the Journal before
deciding it.
(2) Within three months from the date of advertisement under sub-rule (1), or within such
further period not exceeding one month in the aggregate as the Registrar may allow, any person may
give notice of opposition to the application on Form TM-39 and may also send therewith a statement
of his objections. The notice and the statement, if any, shall be sent in triplicate. In case there are anyregistered users under the registration of the trade mark in question, such notice and statement shall
also be accompanied by as many copies thereof as there are registered users. A copy of each of the
notice and statement shall be transmitted forthwith by the Registrar to the registered proprietor and
each registered user, if any, and within two months from the receipt by the registered proprietor of
such copies he shall sent to the Registrar in Form TM-6 a counterstatement in triplicate of the grounds
on which the opposition is contested. If the registered proprietor sends such a counterstatement, the
Registrar shall ordinarily serve a copy thereof on the person giving notice of opposition within one
month and the provisions of rules 50 to 57 shall apply mutatis mutandis to the further proceedings on
the opposition. The Registrar shall not, however, refuse the application merely because the registered
proprietor has not filed a counterstatement unless he is satisfied that the delay in filing thecounterstatement is wilful and is not justified by the circumstance of the case. In case of any doubt
any party may apply to the Registrar for directions.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 32
(3) If there is no opposition, within the time specifie d in sub-rule(2), the Registrar shall, after
hearing the applicant if he so desires, allow or refuse the application and shall communicate his
decision in writing to the applicant.
100. Decision, Advertisement, Notification.- If the Registrar decides to allow the application he
shall alter the mark in the register accordingly and in sert in the Journal a notification that the mark has
been altered. If the application has not been advertised under rule 99, he shall also advertise in the
Journal the trade marks as altered.
RE-CLASSIFICATION OF GOODS IN RESPECT OF EXISTING REGISTRATION
101. Re-classification in respect of existing registration .-(1)On the classification set forth in the
Fourth Schedule being amended, the registered proprietor of a trade mark may apply to the Registrar
on Form TM-40 for the conversion of the specification relating to his trade mark, so as to bring that
specification into conformity with the amended classification. The application shall include a request
for the like conversion of the specification in respect of any registered users under that registration,and the registered proprietor shall serve a copy of the application on the registered user or users of the
trade mark, if any.
(2) The Registrar shall, thereupon, notify in writing to the registered proprietor and to the
registered user or users, if any, a proposal show ing the form in which, in the Registrar's view, the
amendment of the register should take in consequence of the proposed conversion. Two or more
registrations of a trade mark having the same date and in respect of goods or services which fall
within the same class under the amended or substituted classification, may be amalgamated upon
conversion in accordance with this rule.
(3)The proposal referred to in sub-rule (2) shall be advertised in the Journal.
(4) Notice of Opposition to such proposal shall be given in Form TM-41 in triplicate within
three months from the date of the advertisement or within such period not exceeding one month in
the aggregate and shall be accompanied by a st atement in triplicate showing how the proposed
amendment would contravene the provisions of sub-section (1) of section 60. Where there are any
registered users under the registration of the trade mark in question, such notice and statement shall
also be accompanied by as many copies thereof as there are registered users. The Registrar shall
within two months send a copy each of the notice and the statement to the registered proprietor and to
each registered user, if any, and within two months from the receipt by him of such copies the
registered proprietor may send to the Registrar on Form TM-6 a counterstatement in triplicate
setting out fully the grounds on which the opposition is contested. If the registered proprietor sendssuch counterstatement the Registrar shall serve a copy thereof on the person giving notice of
opposition within two months and the further procedure for the disposal of the opposition shall be
regulated by the provisions of rules 50 to 57 mutatis mutandis . In any case of doubt, any party may
apply to the Registrar for directions.
(5) If there is no opposition within the time specified in sub-rule (4), or in case of opposition
if the conversion of the specification is allowed, the proposal as allowed shall be advertised in the
Journal, and all necessary entries shall be made in the register. The date when such entries are made
in the register shall be recorded therein. Any entr y made in the register in pursuance of this sub-rule
shall not affect the date of the renewal of registration under section 25 which shall be determined inthe same manner as before the allowing of the conversion.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 33
CHAPTER VII
MISCELLANEOUS
102. Refusal or invalidation of registration of trade mark conflicting with a geographical
indication.- A request in form TM-73 or TM-74 as the case may be, may be made to the
Registrar for the refusal or invalidation of a registered trade mark by an interested party along
with a statement of case together with an affidavit and which-
(a) contains or consists of a geographical indication with respect to goods or class or
classes of goods not originating in the territory of a country, or a region or locality in
that territory which such geographical indication indicates, if the use of suchgeographical indication in the trade mark for such goods, is of such nature as to
confuse or mislead the persons as to the true place of origin of such goods or class or
classes of goods;
(b) contains or consists of geographical indication identifying goods or class of classes of
goods notified under sub-section (2) of sect ion 22 of the Geographical Indications of
Goods (Registration and Protection)Act, 1999 (48 of 1999).
103 Single application under sub-section (2) of section 18-.(1) Where an application for the
registration of a trade mark for different classes of goods or services is made under sub-section (2) of
section 18, the specification of goods or services contained in it shall set out the classes in consecutivenumerical order beginning with the lowest number and indicate in each class the goods or services
appropriate to that class.
(2) If the specification of goods or services contained in the initial application for registration
of a trade mark makes a reference to a class or classes in the Fourth Schedule in which they do notfall, the Registrar shall require the applicant to correct the classification error in Form TM-16.
(3) Applications filed under sub-section (2) of section 18 when ordered to be advertised shall
be published in a separate section of the Journal.
(4) The Registrar shall issue a single certificate of registration in respect of an application
made under sub-section (2) of section 18 which has proceeded to registration.
104. Divisional Application.- (1) Where an application is made in Form TM-53 under proviso to
section 22 for the division of a single pending application, such application shall be divided into two
or more separate applications on the payment of a divisional fee and such class fees as are appropriate
in accordance with the division.
(2) At any time before registration an applicant may request the Registrar in Form TM-53 for
a division of his initial application for registration into two or more separate applications (divisional
applications),indicating for each division the specification of goods or services. The Registrar shall
treat each divisional application as a separate application for registration with the same filing date asthe initial application.
(3) In the case of a request to divide some goods or services, but not all in a class, a divisional
fee for separate application to be created by division shall be paid. Any time limit for any action by
the applicant in relation to the initial application at the time of division shall be applicable to each newseparate application created by division irrespective of the date of the division.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 34
(4) If the request to divide is not accompanied by necessary fee or is otherwise deficient, the
Registrar shall notify the applicant of the deficiency. The applicant may correct any such deficiency
within thirty days. If the applicant fails to correct the deficiency within the time provided, the request
shall be considered as abandoned and the application shall proceeded further without regard to the
request.
(5) Where a request to divide an application is received, the Registrar shall assign an
additional separate new serial number or numbers, as the case may be, and it shall be cross-referenced
with the initial application. Such additional separate application or applications shall be assigned the
same filing date as the initial application.
(6) For the removal of doubt, it is clarified that no new registration is effected when a single
application is divided. On the contrary, application already filed are merely separated or divided intoindividual files.
105. Extension of time. -(1) An application for extension of time under section 131 (not being a
time expressly provided in the Act or prescribed by rule 79 or by sub-rule (4) of rule 80 or a time for
the extension of which provision is made in the rules) shall be made on Form TM-56.
(2) Upon an application made under sub-rule (1) the Registrar, if satisfied that the
circumstances are such as to justify the extension of the time applied for, may, subject to the
provisions of the rules where a maximum time limit is prescribed and subject to such conditions as he
may think fit to impose, extend the time and notify the parties accordingly and the extension may begranted though the time for doing the act or taking the proceeding for which it is applied for has
already expired.
106.Exercise of discretionary power of Registrar.- The time within which a person entitled
under Section 128 to an opportunity of being heard shall exercise his option of requiring to be heardshall, save as otherwise expressly provided in the Act or the rules, be one month from the date of a
notice which the Registrar shall give to such pers on before determining the matter with reference to
which such person is entitled to be heard. If within that one month such person is required to be
heard, the Registrar shall appoint a date for the hearing and shall give 10 day's notice thereof.
107. Notification of decision.- The decision of the Registrar in the exercise of any discretionary
power given to him by the Act or the rules shall be notified to the person affected.
108. Amendments and correction of irregularity in procedure.- (1) Any document or drawing
or other representation of a trade mark may be amended, and any irregularity in procedure which, in
the opinion of the Registrar, may be obviated without detriment to the interests of any person, may be
corrected, if the Registrar thinks fit and on such terms as he may direct.
(2) The Registrar may require the amendment of any application or representation of a trade
mark or any other document or the addition of any matter thereto in order to bring it in accordance
with the formal requirements of the Act.
109. Directions not otherwise prescribed.- Where in the opinion of the Registrar, it is necessary
for the proper prosecution or completion of any proceedings under the Act or rules for a person to
perform an act, file a document or produce evidence, which is not provided for by the Act or the rules,
the Registrar may by notice in writing require the person to perform the Act, file the document or
produce the evidence, specified in the notice.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 35
110. Opinion of the Registrar under Section 115(4).- (1) Where a matter has been referred to the
Registrar for his opinion under proviso to sub-section (4) of section 115 such opinion shall be
forwarded under a sealed cover within seven working days of the receipt of such written intimation to
the referring authority and the Registrar shall ensure complete confidentiality in the matter so referred.
(2) The opinion under this rule shall be given by the Registrar or an officer specially authorized
for this purpose under sub-section (2) of section 3 and the name of the designated officer shall be
published in the journal.
HEARINGS
111. Hearings.- (1) In relation to a trade mark for which an application for registration is made on
or after the notified date, the application as well as any proceeding under the Act and the rules shall,
in the event of a hearing becoming necessary, be heard at the office of the Trade Marks Registry at
which such application was made under sub-section (3) of section 18, or at such place within the
territorial jurisdiction of that office as the Registrar may deem proper.
(2) In relation to a trade mark for which an application for registration is pending before the
Registrar, at the notified date, the hearing, if any, in respect of such application or any proceeding
under the Act and the rules shall be taken at the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry or at
such place within the territorial jurisdiction of that office as the Registrar may deem proper.
(3) In relation to a trade mark on the Register of Trade Marks at the notified date, the hearing,
if any, in respect of any proceeding under the Act and the rules shall take place at the appropriate
office of the Trade Marks Registry or at such place within the territorial jurisdiction of that office as
the Registrar may deem proper.
(4) Where an officer exercising the powers of the Registrar who has heard any matter under
the Act or the rules, has reserved orders therein, is transferred from one office of the Registry to
another or reverts to another appointment before passing an order or rendering decision therein, he
may, if the Registrar so directs, pass the order or render the decision as if he had continued to be theofficer in the office of the Registry where the matter was heard.
AWARD OF COSTS BY REGISTRAR
112. Costs in uncontested cases.- Where any opposition duly instituted under the rules is not
contested by the applicant, the Registrar in deciding whether costs should be awarded to the opponent
shall consider whether the proceedings might have been avoided if reasonable notice had been given
by the opponent to the applicant before the notice of opposition was filed.
113. Exception to rule 112.- Notwithstanding anything in rule 112, costs in respect of fees
specified under entries, 12,14 and 15 of the First Schedule and of all stamps used on and affixed to
affidavits used in the proceedings shall follow the event.
114. Scale of costs.- Subject to the provisions of rules 112 and 113, in all proceedings before the
Registrar, he may, save as otherwise expressly provided by the Act, award such costs, not exceedingthe amount admissible thereof under the Sixth Schedule, as he considers reasonable having regard to
all the circumstances of the case.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 36
REVIEW OF DECISION BY REGISTRAR
115. Application for review of Registrar's decision.- An application to the Registrar for the
review of his decision under sub-section (c) of section 127 shall be made on Form TM-57 within one
month from the date of such decision or within such further period not exceeding one month
thereafter as the Registrar may on request allow, and shall be accompanied by a statement setting
forth the grounds on which the review is sought. Where the decision in question concerns any other
person in addition to the applicant, such applicati on and statement shall be left in triplicate and the
Registrar shall forthwith transmit a copy each of the application and statement to the other person
concerned. The Registrar may, after giving the parties an opportunity of being heard, reject or grant
the application, either unconditionally or subject to any conditions or limitations, as he thinks fit.
AFFIDAVITS
116. Form, etc. of Affidavits.- (1) The Affidavits required by the Act and the rules to be filed at the
Trade Marks Registry or furnished to the Registrar, unless otherwise provided in the Second
Schedule, shall be headed in the matter or matters to which they relate, shall be drawn up in the first
person, and shall be divided into paragraphs consecutively numbered; and each paragraph shall, as far
as practicable, be confined to one subject. Every affidavit shall state the description and the true placeof abode of the person making the same shall bear the name and address of the person filing it and
shall state on whose behalf it is filed.
(2) Where two or more persons join in an affi davit, each of them shall depose separately to
such facts which are within his personal knowledge and those facts shall be stated in separateparagraphs.
(3) Affidavits shall be taken –
(a) In India -before any Court or person having by law authority to receive evidence, or
before any officer empowered by such Court as aforesaid to administer oaths or to
take affidavits;
(b) in any country or place outside India - before a diplomatic or consular officer, within
the meaning of the Diplomatic and Consular Officers (Oaths and Fee) Act, 1948, of
such country or place, or before a notary public, or before a judge or magistrate, of
the country or place.
(4) The person before whom an affidavit is taken shall state the date on which and the place
where the same is taken and shall affix his seal, if any, or the seal of the Court to which he is attached
thereto and sign his name and description at the end thereof.
(5) Any affidavit purporting to have affixed, impressed or subscribed thereto or thereon the
seal or signature of any person authorised by sub-rule (3) to take an affidavit, in testimony of the
affidavit having been taken before him, may be admitted by the Registrar without proof of the
genuineness of the seal or signature or of the official character of that person.
(6) Alterations and interlineations shall, before an affidavit is sworn or affirmed, be
authenticated by the initials of the person before whom the affidavit is taken.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 37
(7) Where the deponent is illiterate, blind or unacquainted with the language in which the
affidavit is written, a certificate by the person taking the affidavit that the affidavit was read,
translated or explained in his presence to the deponent, that the deponent seemed perfectly to
understand it and that the deponent made his signature or mark in his presence, shall appear in the
jurat.
(8) Every affidavit filed before the Registrar in connection with any of the proceedings under
the Act or the rules shall be duly stamped under the law for the time being in force.
INSPECTION OF DOCUMENTS BY THE PUBLIC
117. Inspection of documents.- The documents mentioned in sub-section (1) of section 148 shall
be available for inspection at the head office of the Trade Marks Registry. A copy of the register and
such of the other documents mentioned in section 148, as the Central Government may by
notification in the Official Gazette direct, shall be available for inspection at each branch office of the
Trade Marks Registry. The inspection shall be on payment of the prescribed fee and at such times onall the days on which the offices of the Trade Marks Registry are not closed to the public, as may be
fixed by the Registrar.
118. Distribution of copies of Journal and other documents.- The Central Government may
direct the Registrar to distribute the Journal and any other document which it may consider necessary,to such places as may be fixed by the Central Government in consultation with the State Governments
and notified from time to time in the Official Gazette.
CERTIFICATES
119. Certified copies of documents.- The Registrar may furnish certified copies of any entry in the
register or certified copies of any documents referred to in sub-section (1) of section 148 or of any
decision or order of the Registrar, or give a certificate other than a certificate under sub-section (2) ofsection 23 as to any entry, matter or thing which he is authorised or required by the Act or the rules
to make or do, upon receipt from any person of an application therefore on Form TM-46 accompanied
by the prescribed fee. The Registrar shall not be obliged to include in any certificate or certified copy,
a copy of any mark unless he is furnished by the applicant with a copy thereof suitable for the
purpose:
Provided that the Registrar may furnish an expedited certified copies of the documents
aforementioned within thirty working days on a request in Form TM-70 received to that effect on
payment of five times the ordinary fees for such request.
120. Certificate for use in obtaining registration abroad. - (1) Where a certificate relating to the
registration of a trade mark is desired for use in obtaining registration in any territory outside India,
the Registrar shall include in the certificate a copy of the mark and may require the applicant for thecertificate to furnish him with a copy of the mark su itable for that purpose, and if the applicant fails to
do so, the Registrar may refuse to issue the certificate.
(2) Where a trade mark is registered without limitation of colour, the copy of the mark to be
included in the certificate, may be either in the colour in which it appears upon the register or in anyother colour or colours and it shall be stated in the certificate that the trade mark is registered without
limitation of colour.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 38
(3)The Registrar may state in the certificate such particulars concerning the registration of the
mark as may deem fit to him, and may specify the terms and conditions and other limitation appearing
on the Register. The purpose for which the certificate is issued shall be stated therein.
121. Power of Registrar to notify International Non-proprietary names.- The Registrar may
from time to time publish in the Journal, the words which are declared by the World HealthOrganisation as international non-proprietary names referred to in sub-section (b) of section 13.
APPEALS TO THE INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY APPELLATE BOARD
122. Time for appeal.- An appeal to the Intellectual Property Appellate Board from any decision
of the Registrar under the Act or the rules shall be made within three months from the date of such
decision.
123. Service to the Registrar.- A copy of every application to Intellectual Property Appellate
Board under the Act shall be served on the Registrar.
CERTIFICATE OF VALIDITY
124. Certificate of validity to be noted.- Where the Intellectual Property Appellate Board has
certified as provided in section 141 with regard to the validity of a registered trade mark the
registered proprietor thereof may request the Registrar in Form TM-47 to add to the entry in the
register a note that the certificate of validity has been granted in the course of the proceedings,
particulars of which shall be given in the request. An officially certified copy of the certificate shall besent with the request, and the Registrar shall record a note to that effect in the register and publish the
note in the Journal.
RETURN OF EXHIBITS AND DESTRUCTION OF RECORDS.
125. Return of exhibits.- (1) Where the exhibits produced in any matter or proceeding under the
Act or the rules are no longer required in the Trade Marks Registry, the Registrar may call upon the
party concerned to take back the exhibits within a time specified by him and if the party fails to do
so, such exhibits shall be destroyed.
(2) Where, before the notified date any exhibits have been produced in any proceeding, the
Registrar may, if satisfied that it is no longer necessary to retain them call upon the party concerned to
take back the exhibits within a time specified by him and if the party fails to do so, such exhibit shall
be destroyed.
126. Destruction of records.- Where an application for the registration of a trade mark has been
withdrawn/abandoned or refused or a trade mark has been removed from the register or in an
opposition or rectification proceeding the matter has been concluded and no appeal is pending before
the Intellectual Property Appellate Board, the Registrar may, at the expiration of three years after the
application is withdrawn or is abandoned or is refused or after the trade mark is removed from theregister or the opposition or rectification proceeding is closed, as the case may be, destroy all or any
of the records relating to the application, opposition or rectification or the trade mark concerned.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 39
PART II
SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR COLLECTIVE MARKS
127. Rules to apply to collective marks.- The provisions of Part I, Part IV, and VII of the rules
shall, in their application to collective marks, apply only subject to the provisions of this Part.
128. Application for registration and proceedings relating thereto .- (1) An application for
the registration of a collective mark for goods or services under sub-section (1) of section 63 shall be
made to the Registrar in Form TM-3, Form TM-64 or in the case of a single application in Form
TM-66 or Form TM-67 as the case may be, in triplicate and shall be accompanied by five additional
representations of the mark. The draft regulations to be submitted with the application under sub-section (1) of section 63 shall be in triplicate and shall be accompanied by Form TM-49.
(2) References in Part I of the rules to the acceptance of an application for the registration of
a trade mark for goods or services, shall, in their application to collective mark, be substituted by
references to authorisation to proceed with the application.
(3) An applicant for the registration of a collective mark shall not be deemed to have
abandoned his application, if in the circumstances of sub-rule (5) of rule 38 he does not apply for a
hearing or reply in writing.
(4) The address in India, if any, of an applicant to register a collective mark shall be deemed
to be the address of his principal place of business in India for all the purposes for which such an
address is required by the rules.
(5) The regulations governing collective marks shall specify inter alia:-
(a) The name of the association of persons and their respective office addresses;
(b) The object of the association;
(c) The details of members;
(d) The conditions for membership and relation of each member with the group;
(e) The persons authorised to use the mark and the nature of control the applicant
exercise over the use of the collective mark;
(f) The conditions governing use of the collective mark, including sanctions;
(g) The procedure for dealing with appeals against the use of the collective mark;
(h) such other particulars as may be called for by the Registrar.
129. Case accompanying application. - The applicant shall submit to the Registrar along with his
application a statement of case setting out the grounds on which he relies in support of his application.
Such case shall be furnished in triplicate.
130. Examination and Hearing.- (1) The Registrar shall cause an application for the registration of a
collective mark to be examined, in the first instance , as to whether it satisfies the requirement of the
Act and the rules and issue a report to the applicant.
(2) The Registrar shall not refuse an application for the registration of a collective mark or
accept the application subject to any conditions or limitations or impose amendments or modifications
to the application or to the regulation without givi ng to the applicant an opportunity of being heard
and the procedure thereto shall be regulated by the provision of sub-rule (4) of rule 38 to rule 42.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 40
131. Opposition to registration of collective marks -(1) On acceptance of the application the
Registrar shall cause the application to be advertised in the Journal and the provisions of rules 47 to
57 shall apply mutatis mutandis to further proceedings in the matter as they apply in relation to an
application for the registration of a trade mark.
(2) In any case of doubt with regard to proceedings on the opposition to the registration of a
collective mark, any party may apply to the Registrar for directions
132. Amendment of regulations relating to collective marks and renewal-(a) An application
by the registered proprietor of a collective mark for any amendment to the regulation under Section 66
shall be made in Form TM-42 and where the Registrar accepts any such amendment he shall
advertise, such application in the Journal and furt her proceedings in the matter shall be governed by
rules 47 to 57.
(b) A collective mark may be renewed from time to time and the provision of rule 63 to
67 shall apply mutatis mutandis in respect of such request for renewal.
133. Removal of collective mark.- An application for removal of a collective mark from the
register including on any of the grounds mentioned in section 68 shall be made in Form TM-43 and
shall set forth particulars of the grounds on which the application is made. The provisions of rule 92
and 94 of these rules shall apply mutatis mutandis for further proceeding in the matter.
PART III
SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR CERTIFICATION TRADE MARKS
134. Rules to apply to certification trade marks.- The provisions of Part I, Part IV and Part VII
of the rules shall, in their application to certifi cation trade marks, apply only subject to the provisions
of this Part.
135. Application for registration and proceedings relating thereto.- (1) An application
for the registration of a certification trade mark under sub- section (1) of section 71 shall be made to
the Registrar in Form TM-4, Form TM-65 and in the case of a single application in Form TM-68 or
Form TM-69 as the case may be, in triplicate and shall be accompanied by five additional
representations of the mark. The draft regulations to be submitted with the application shall be in
triplicate and shall be accompanied by Form TM-49.
(2) References in Part I of the rules to the acceptance of an application for the registration of
a trade mark, shall, in their application to certification trade mark, be substituted by references to
authorisation to proceed with the application.
(3) An applicant for the registration of a certification trade mark shall not be deemed to have
abandoned his application, if, in the circumstances of sub-rule 5 of rule 38 he does not apply for ahearing or reply in writing.
(4) The address in India, if any, of an applicant to register a certification trade mark shall be
deemed to be the address of his principal place of business in India for all the purposes for which such
an address is required by the rules.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 41
(5) The regulation governing a certification trade mark shall specify inter alia:-
(a) a description of the applicant;
(b) the nature of the applicant's business;
(c) the particulars of infrastructure like R &D, technical manpower support;
(d) the applicants competence to administer the certification scheme;
(e) the applicants financial arrangement;
(f) an undertaking from the applicant that there will be no discrimination of any
party if they meet the requirements set down in the regulations;
(g) the characteristic the mark will indicate in the certified goods or in relation to
the rendering of certified services.
(h) the manner of monitoring the use of the mark in India; and
(i) such other relevant particulars as may be called for by the Registrar.
136. Statement of Case accompanying application.- (1) The applicant shall forward a
statement of case to the Registrar with the application setting out the grounds in which he relies in
support of the application. Such case shall be furnished in triplicate.
(2) The Registrar shall cause the application for the registration of a certificate trade
mark to be examined in the first instance as to wh ether it satisfies the requirement of the Act and the
rules and issue a report to the applicant.
137. Hearing by the Registrar before refusing an application or to accept it conditionally.-
The Registrar shall not refuse an application for registration of a certification trade mark or
accept the application subject to any conditions or limitations or impose amendments or modifications
to the application or to the regulations without givi ng to the applicant an opportunity of being heard
and the procedure thereto shall be regulated by the provisions of sub-rule (4) of rule 38 to rule 42 of
these rules.
138. Opposition to registration of certification trade mark and renewal.- (1) On acceptance of
the application the Registrar shall cause the application to be advertised in the Journal and the
provisions of rules 47 to 57 shall apply mutatis mutandis as they apply in relation to an application for
the registration of a trade mark.
(2)In case of doubt with regard to the proceedings on the opposition to the registration of a
certification trade mark, any party may apply to the Registrar for directions.
(3) A certification trade mark may be renewed from time to time and the provisions of rule 63 to
67 shall apply mutatis mutandis in respect of such request for renewal.
139.- Rectification of certification trade mark .-An application for cancellation or variation of
registration of a certification trade mark on any of the grounds mentioned in section 77 shall be made
in Form TM-43 and shall set forth particulars of the grounds on which the application is made. The
provisions of rule 92 to 94 shall apply mutatis mutandis to further proceedings in the matter.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 42
140. Alteration of deposited regulations and consent of the Registrar for assignment or
transmission of certification trade marks .- (1) An application by the registered proprietor of a
certification trade mark under sub-section (2) of section 74 to alter the deposited regulation shall be
made in Form TM-42 and where the Registrar decides to permit such alteration it shall be
advertised in the Journal and further proceeding in the matter shall be governed by rule 47 to 57..
(2) An application for the consent of the Registrar to the assignment and transmission of a
certification trade mark under Section 43 shall be made in Form TM-62.
PART IV
SPECIAL PROVISION FO TEXTILE GOODS
141. Definitions.- For the purposes of rules 146 and 147 --
"balanced numeral" means a trade mark consisting of either identical numerals or identical letters of
not less than three nor more than seven digits.
"digit" includes a single letter;
"letter fraction" means a fraction containing one or more letters.
142. Rules to apply to textile marks.- Subject to the provisions of this Part, the provisions of
Part I, Part II, Part III and Part VII of the rules shall apply to trade marks in respect of textile goods as
they apply to trade marks in respect of non-textile goods.
143. Textile Marks.- The expression "textile mark" means a trademark used or proposed to be used
in relation to goods specified in rule 144 as "textile goods " for the purpose of Chapter X of the Act.
144. Textile Goods.- The classes of goods in relation to trade marks to which Chapter X of the
Act shall apply and which are in the Act and the rules referred to as textile goods shall be classes 22
to 27 (inclusive) of the Fourth Schedule.
145. Application to register letters or numeral s or any combination thereof in respect of
items of textile goods.- (1) A separate application for the registration of a trade mark (other than a
collective mark or a certification trade mark) shall be made in Form TM- 22 or TM-45 as the case
may be, in respect of each of the items of textile goods mentioned in the Fifth Schedule where the
mark consists exclusively of letters or numerals or any combination thereof.
(2) The items of the Fifth Schedule shall be grouped as follows; and goods falling in each
group shall be deemed to be similar goods, and goods falling in different groups shall not be deemed
to be similar goods for the purpose of an application for the registration of trade marks consisting
exclusively of letters or numerals or any combination thereof made under sub-rule(1) and proceedings
relating thereto but not for any other purpose-
Group–Items1,4,5,8,9,10,11,12,16,19,20,22,23,24,25,26,27,30,33,36,37,
39,41,42,44,45,48,49,54,55,59,61,62,65 and 91
.
Group 2 – Items 2,3,14,17, 18,34,35 and 47.
Group 3 – Items 6,7,21,38 and 52.Group 4 – Items 13,29,75,77 and 78.
Group 5 - Items 15,28,31,40,60,66,79,88,90 and 93.
Group 6 – Items 32,43,64 and 94.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 43
Group 7 – Items 46,83 and 85.
Group 8 – Items 50,51,56,57,63,76,80,84,86,87 and 89.
Group 9 – Items 53.
Group 10 –Items 58,82 and 92.
Group 11- Items 67,68,69,70 and 71.
Group 12 – Items 72.Group 13 – Items 73.
Group 14- Items 74.
Group 15- Items 81.
(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-rule (2) in respect of any proceeding relating
to trade marks consisting exclusively of letters, numerals or any combination thereof for the
registration of which applications were made on or before the 31st July,1945, the goods falling indifferent items of the Fifth Schedule shall not be deemed to be similar goods of the same description.
146. Non-registrability of certain marks.- In respect of textile goods the following marks shall
not be capable of registration, namely:-
(a) any numerals of one digit or of more than six digits not being a balanced numerals;
(b) a single letter or any combination of letters of more than six letters, not being a
balanced numeral;
(c) any combination of numerals and letters of more than eight digits;
(d) any fraction or letter fraction consisting of more than eight digits together;
(e) any fraction or letter fraction having less than three digits together;
(f) any combination of numerals, and fractions of more than six digits;
(g) any combination of numerals, letters, fractions and letter fractions either having more
than eight digits or ending with a fraction of more than one digit in the numerator or
in the denominator;
(h) numerals or letters representing cloth dimensions;
(i) a balanced numeral which does not consist of at least two more or two less digits
than a balanced numeral of the same series already registered in the name of a
different person, in respect of the same goods or description of goods.
147. Marks likely to deceive or to cause confusion.- (1) A trade mark consisting of numerals,
letters, fractions, letter fractions or any combination thereof, and not being a balanced numeral shall
not be capable of being registered as a textile mark if it does not differ from a trade mark registered in
the name of a different person in respect of the same goods or similar goods-
a) in the case of a numeral not exceeding four digits, in at least one corresponding
digit;
b) in the case of a numeral of five digits, in at least two corresponding digits;
c) in the case of a numeral of six digits, in at least three corresponding digits;
d) in the case of a combination of two letters, in at least one corresponding letter;
e) in the case of a combination of three or four letters, in at least two corresponding
letters;
f) in the case of a combination of five or six letters, in at least three corresponding
letters;
g) in the case of a mark consisting of one letter and one numeral digit, in at least one of
them;
h) in the case of a mark consisting of one letter and two or three numeral digits, in at
least one corresponding numeral digit;
i) in the case of a mark consisting of one letter and four or more numeral digits, in at
least two corresponding digits;IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 44
j) in the case of a mark consisting of two or more letters and one or more numeral
digits, in at least one corresponding letter and one corresponding numeral digit;
k) in the case of a fraction or letter fraction or any combination thereof in which the total
number of digits in the numerator and denominator is three or four, in at least one
corresponding digit from either the numerator or the denominator
l) in the case of a fraction or letter fraction or any combination thereof in which the total
number of digits in the numerator and denominator is five or more, in at least one
corresponding digit in the numerator and one corresponding digit in the denominator
or two corresponding digits in either the numerator or the denominator
m) in the case of a combination consisting of a numeral and a fraction in at least one
corresponding numeral digit;
n) in the case of a combination of letters, numerals and fractions (including letter
fractions)-
i) where the total number of digits excluding the fraction is not more than three
in at least one corresponding digit;
ii) where the total number of digits, excluding the fraction, is four or more, in at
least two corresponding digits.
(2) Nothing in sub-rule (1) shall be construed to signify that where a trade mark does not
come within the scope of any case specified in the said sub rule, the mark shall necessarily be
registered as not being likely to deceive or to cause confusion.
PART V
REGISTRATION OF TRADE MARKS AGENTS
148. Register of Trade Marks Agents.- The Registrar of Trade Marks shall maintain a Register of
Trade Marks Agents wherein shall be entered the name, address of the place of residence, address of
the principal place of business, the nationality, qualifications and date of registration of every
registered trade marks agent.
149. Registration of existing registered trade marks agents, code of conduct etc:.- (1)
Notwithstanding anything in rule 150 every person whose name has been entered in the Register of
Trade Marks Agents maintained under the old law shall be deemed to be registered as a trade marks
agent under these rules.
(2) The Registrar may publish in the Journal a code of conduct for the registered trade marks
agent authorising them to act as such.
150. Qualifications for registration.- Subject to the provisions of rule 151, a person shall be
qualified to be registered as a trade marks agent if he-
(i) is a citizen of India;
(ii) is not less than 21 years of age;
(iii) has passed the examination prescribed in rule 154 or is an Advocate within the
meaning of the Advocates Act,1961 (25 of 1961) or is a Member of the Institute of
Company Secretaries of India;
(iv) is a graduate of any university in India or possess an equivalent qualification; and
(v) is considered by the Registrar as a fit and proper person to be registered as a trade
mark agent.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 45
151. Persons debarred from registration.- A person shall not be eligible for registration as a
trade marks agent if he –
(i) has been adjudged by a competent Court to be of unsound mind;
(ii) is an undischarged insolvent;
(iii) being a discharged insolvent has not obta ined from the Court a certificate to the
effect that his insolvency was caused by misfortune without any misconduct on his
part;
(iv) has been convicted by a competent Court, whether within or without India of an
offence punishable with transportation or imprisonment, unless the offence of which
he has been convicted has been pardoned or unless on an application made by him,
the Central Government by order in this behalf, has removed the disability;
(v) being a legal practitioner has been held guilty of professional misconduct by any
High Court in India or by any Court beyond the limits of India;
(vi) being a chartered accountant, has been held guilty of negligence or misconduct by a
High Court; or
(vii) being a registered trade marks agent has been held guilty of professional misconduct
by the Registrar.
152. Manner of making application.- All applications under the provisions of this Part shall be
made in triplicate and shall be sent to or left at that office of the Trade Marks Registry within whose
territorial limits the principal place of business of the applicant is situate.
153. Application for registration as a trade marks agent.- (1) Every person desiring to be
registered as a trade marks agent shall make an application on Form TMA-1 .
(2) The applicant shall furnish such further information bearing on his application as may be
required of him at any time by the Registrar.
154. Procedure on application and qualifying requirements.- (1) On receipt of an application
for the registration of a person as a trade marks agent, the Registrar, if satisfied that the applicant
fulfils the prescribed qualifications, shall appoint a date in due course on which the candidate willappear before him for a written examination in Trade Marks Law and practice followed by an
interview. The candidate will be expected to possess a detailed knowledge of the provisions of the Act
and the rules and knowledge of the elements of Trade Marks Law.
(2) The qualifying marks for the written examin ation and for interview shall be forty
percent and sixty percent respectively and a candidate shall be declared to have passed the
examination only if he obtained an aggregate of fifty per cent of the total marks.
155. Certificate of registration.- After a candidate has been interviewed and any further
information bearing on his application, which the Registrar may consider necessary has been obtained
and if the Registrar considers the applicant eligible and qualified for registration as a trade marks
agent, he shall send an intimation to that effect to the applicant and any person so intimated may paythe prescribed fee for his registration as a trade ma rks agent. Upon receipt of the prescribed fee the
Registrar shall cause the applicant's name to be entered in the register of trade marks agents and shall
issue to him a certificate on Form O-4 of his registration as a trade marks agents.
156. Continuance of a name in the Register of trade marks agents.- The continuance of a
person's name in the Register of Trade Marks Agents shall be subject to his payment of the fees
prescribed in First Schedule.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 46
157. Removal of agent's name from the register of trade marks agents.- (1) The Registrar
shall remove from the Register of Trade Marks Agents the name of any registered trade marks agent-
(a) from whom a request has been received to that effect ; or
(b) from whom the annual fee has not been received on the expiry of three months from
the date on which it became due.
(2) The Registrar shall remove from the Register of Trade Marks Agents, the name of
any registered trade marks agent-
(a) who is found to have been subject at the time of his registration, or thereafter has
become subject , to any of the disabilities stated in clauses (i) to(vii) of rule 151; or
(b) whom the Registrar has declared not to be a fit and proper person to remain in the
Register by reason of any act of negligence, misconduct or dishonesty committed in
his professional capacity;
(c) whose name has been entered in the register by an error or on account of
misrepresentation or suppression of material fact:
Provided that before making such declaration under clause (b) and (c) the Registrar shall
call upon the person concerned to show cause why his registration should not be cancelled and shall
make such further enquiry, if any, as it may consider necessary.
(3) The Registrar shall remove from the Register of Trade Marks Agents the name of any
registered trade marks agent who is dead.
(4) The removal of the name of any person from the Register of Trade Marks Agents shall be
notified in the Journal and shall, wherever possible , be communicated to the person concerned.
158. Power of Registrar to refuse to deal with certain agents.- (1) The Registrar may refuse to
recognise-
(a) any individual whose name has been removed from, and not restored to the register;
(b) any person, not being registered as a trade marks agent, who in the opinion of the
Registrar is engaged wholly or mainly in acting as agent in applying for trade marks
in India or elsewhere in the name or for the benefit of the person by whom he is
employed;
(c) any company or firm, if any person whom the Registrar could refuse to recognise as
agent in respect of any business under these rules, is acting as a director or manager
of the company or is a partner in the firm.
(2) The Registrar shall also refuse to recognise as agent in respect of any business under this
rule any person who neither resides nor has a place of business in India
159. Restoration of removed names.- (1) The Registrar may , on an application made in Form-
TMA-2 within six months from the date of removal of his name from the Register of Trade Marks
Agents accompanied by the fee specified in the First Schedule from a person whose name has been
removed under clause (b) of sub-rule(1) of rule 157, restore his name to the Register of Trade Marks
Agents and continue his name therein for a period of one year from the date on which his last annual
fee became due.
(2) The restoration of a name to the Register of Trade Marks Agent shall be notified in the
Journal and shall be communicated to the person concerned.
IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 47
160. Alteration in the Register of trade marks agents.- (1) A registered trade marks agent may
apply in Form TMA-3 for alteration of his name, address of the place of residence, address of the
principal place of business or qualifications entered in the Register of Trade Marks Agents. On receipt
of such application and the fee prescribed in that behalf, the Registrar shall cause the necessary
alteration to be made in the Register of Trade Marks Agents.
(2) Every alteration made in the register of trade marks agents shall be notified in the Journal.
161. Publication of the Register of Trade marks Agents.- The Registrar shall ordinarily publish
the list of Agents in the register of trade marks agents shall be published in the Journal from time to
time and at least once in two years together with their address as entered in the register, the entries
being arranged in the alphabetical order of the surnames of the registered trade marks agents and
copies thereof shall be placed for sale.
162. Appeal.- An appeal shall lie to Intellectual Property Appellate Board from any order or
decision of the Registrar in regard to the registration or removal of Trade Marks Agents under Part V
of these rules, and the decision of the Appellate Board shall be final and binding.
PART VI
PROVISIONS RELATING TO TESTING AND MARKING OF PIECE-GOODS AND YARN
163. Definitions.- For the purposes of this Part, unless the context otherwise requires-
(a) "count" in relation to yarn means the relati on of length to weight thereof in the
English system or the Metric system, as follows:-
(i) The English count for yarn shall be the number of hanks each of 840 yarns in length
that weight one pound avoirdupois or in other words the number of yards of yarn that
weight 8.3 grains.
(ii) The metric count for all yarn with the exception of raw and prepared silk shall
represent the relation between 1000 metres of yarn to 500 grammes or 2 metres to 1
grammes or in other words half the number of hanks (each of 1,000 metres length)
that weigh 500 grammes.
The English count No. of yarn X0.847 the metric count. The metric count No. of
yarn XI.181- the English count.
(iii) the metric count for raw and prepared silk shall be the weight in grams of 10,000
metres of yarn.
(b) "Customs collector" shall have the meanin g assigned to the term in the Customs Act,
1962.(52 of 1962)
164. Testing for length and width of piece-goods.- (1) In testing for length of piece-goods such
as are ordinarily sold by the length or by the piece the measurement shall be made along the selvage.
(2) In testing piece-goods aforesaid for width the cloth shall be measured by each of the following
methods and the mean of the measurements so taken shall be adopted. Care shall be exercised in
applying each method to select a portion of the cloth where the creases are fewest, and the warp andweft respectively as straight as possible.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 48
(a) A double-fold of the cloth shall be laid on the table and the creases smoothed out, so
that it may lie perfectly flat. The measuring rod shall then be placed across the cloth,
and the finger and thumb run down the rod on each side of it across the cloth so as to
once more flatten the creases. Care shall be taken in doing this to see that whilst the
creases are smoothed out, stretching is avoided and the warp threads remain
perpendicular to the rod. The measurement shall then be recorded.
(b) A fold of the cloth shall be taken, and the doubled edge held between a finger and
thumb at each end, and extended over the measuring rod which shall be kept flat on
the table. The extension shall be sufficient to remove the creases but not to stretch the
warp out of the perpendicular.
165. Allowances for peculiarities of cloth and for stretching.- (1) In taking the measurements
aforesaid the peculiarities of the cloth under measure shall be taken into consideration and dueallowances be made for these characteristics.
(2) If owing to the peculiarities of the cloth it is found difficult to determine a reasonable
degree of tension for purposes of measurement, the mean between stretching to the full and not
stretching, shall be adopted.
(3) The influence of stretching for length on the width shall always be taken into account in
measuring cloth. Where the cloth has been stretched lengthwise in the making, it will lose in length as
the weft is straightened to measure the width. It may then have to be ascertained, whether the trade
description of length does not become false in the process of making that for width correct. Toascertain this a measurement along the selvages both lengthwise and across shall be made.
166.Testing of yarns. - Yarns may be tested by the customs- collector for length and count when
he has reason to suspect or on information by any informant that the trade description is false.
167. Number of samples to be selected.- A testing of yarns to test the accuracy of the description
of count or length shall be made, in the first instance, up to the limit of one bundle in every one
hundred bales or fractions of one hundred bales in a consignment.
168.Further testing .- If, on such testing the difference between the average count or length and
the described count or length is in excess of the variation permitted in the notification issued by the
Central Government under section 121 of the Act, the importer or any other person having any claim
to or in relation to, goods in question or otherwise interested may apply for a further testing.
169. Manner of selection and testing of Samples.- The test to determine length of yarns shall be
as follows:-
(i) From every one hundred bales, or fraction of 100 bales, in a consignment one bundle,
shall be selected at random. The hanks in this bundle shall then be measured on the
warp wheel one after the other, in the presence of the importer or any other person
interested as is referred to in the last foregoing rule, or his representative and the
length noted, the process being continued (within the limits of the bundle) until eitherthe importer or other person, as the case may be, is satisfied that the yarn is short, or
the average of the length noted shows that it is of full length.
(ii) When the importer or other person is dissatisfied with the test aforesaid he may, on
payment of the cost, require the customs-collector to measure more hanks up to 1
percent of the total number of hanks in the consignment, such hanks being taken atrandom by an officer of the customs out of any bundles in the consignment.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 49
170. Stove Test.- (1) The stove test may be applied by the customs officers only in cases where
weighment by the ordinary methods shows the weight of the yarn to be short or in which the feel and
appearance of yarn indicate that it is abnormally moist or over-conditioned or where the importer
demands the test. Where the test is carried out on demand by the importer, the fee levied for carrying
out the test shall be returned if the test fails to support the original determination of count and length
by the customs officers. If more than one application of the test is demanded a further fee shall belevied for each fresh test, the whole sum charged be ing retained or refunded according to his final
decision on the results of the tests.
(2) (a) In carrying out the stove test, in the case of cotton yarn a regain of 8 1/2 per cent shall
be added to the weight obtained after the yarn is reduced to an absolute dry conditions, and the figure
so obtained shall be regarded as the actual weight of the yarn under normal conditions.
(b) In the case of silk, or woollen or other yarns other than cotton yarn the regain to be
added to the weight obtained after reducing such yarns to dry condition shall be according to the table
of officials standards supplied with the stove test apparatus.
171. Place of testing.- The testing of piece-goods and yarn referred to in rules 164 to 170 shall be
made at the customs laboratories or at such place and by such officer as the customs-collector maydirect.
172. Security.- The customs-collector may require from an y informant referred to in rule 166
security not exceeding five hundred rupees and where he is satisfied that the information given is
wilfully false, the security shall be forfeited.
STAMPING OF PIECE-GOODS COTTON YARN AND UNDER SECTION 81
173. Piece-goods.- "Piece-goods such as are ordinarily sold by length or by the piece"
(hereinafter referred as "piece-goods)" shall for the purposes of section 81 of the Act or the Customs
Act, 1962(52 of 1962) include cotton piece-goods, woollen piece-goods, silk piece-goods, art silk
piece-goods of synthetic fibre and other piece-goods of mixed fabrics, shall not include the following
descriptions of goods namely:-
(a)Alhambras, except Alhambras quiltings.
Blankets.
Blind Cloth in cut-pieces.
Book-Binding cloth in cut-pieces.
Buckrams in cut-pieces.
Carpets (in rolls).Counterpanes.
Decatising wrappers.
Dusters in woven pieces.
Embroidered all-overs and embroidered saris of all sorts.
Embroidered flounces.Filter cloth.
Glass cloth in woven pieces.
Handkerchiefs in woven pieces.
Laces and nets including Cotton Brettone nets.
Lace curtain cloth.Pillow Calico (Tubular)
Prayer Mats.
Press cloth in cut pieces.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 50
Quilts.
Rugs.
Sarongs up to 2.28 metres in length.
Shawls (finished ) with ends hemmed or fringed, imported singly or in pieces, containing
two or more shawls.
Sponge Cloth (for swabs).Teddy Bear or imitation Seal Skin Cloth.
Towels in woven pieces.
Woollen cleaner cloth.
Woollen knitted cloth
Woollen roller cloth.
Woollen sizing Flannel.
(b) (i) Cotton remnants or cut lengths measuring less fifteen yards (or fourteen meters)
which are not in current ordinary trade practice sold by length or by the piece;
(ii) Fents regardless of their length, which are so defective owing to accidents in the
weaving, dyeing or printing that they are not ordinarily capable of being sold by
length or by the piece.
174. Stamping of piece-goods.- (1) Piece-goods which have been manufactured, bleached, dyed,
printed or finished in India in premises which ar e a factory as defined in the Factories Act,1948 (63
of 1948) shall be stamped with the particulars required under sub-section(1) of section 81.
(2) In the case of piece-goods manufactured outside India (each piece shall be marked
with the name of the manufacturer, exporter, or wholesale purchaser in India of the goods and with
the real length of the piece in standard yards or in standard metres as required under Sea Customs
Act, 1962(52 of 1962).
175. Cases where requirement as to stamping may be waived.- (1) The customs-collector may
not detain any unstamped piece-goods if he is satisfied that although they are not mentioned in the list
of excepted goods under rule 173 they are of such a nature that they would be liable to serious
depreciation in value if stamped:
Provided , however, where a customs-collector exercises his discretion under this sub-rule,
he shall forthwith report the case, sending a sample of the goods to the Central Government through
the Central Board of Revenue, so that the question of issuing general orders in favour of such goods
may be considered.
(2) Cotton and woollen piece-goods imported for the personal use of individuals or private
associations of individuals and not for trade purposes need not be stamped.
176. Nature of stamping required.- (1) In marking the length of the piece-goods the words
"yards" or ‘yds’ “metres” shall accompany the numerals, and in the case of cut-lengths or pieces of
the kind other than that described in clause (b) of rule 173, the number of pieces shall be marked as
well as the yards or metres on the front or outer face fold of the cut-piece, the figures being presented
in a way to show clearly what they are intended to mean.
(2) The length shall be in standard yards or fractions of such yards or standard metres or
fractions of a metre and shall represent the actual length of the goods, and not the length before
shrinkage or dryage, resulting from processes such as dyeing, or from atmospheric changes which can
reasonably be foreseen. Marking in inches or centimetres may be permitted on cloths of smalldimensions and delicate make in accordance with the custom of the trade.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 51
(3) The marking shall be such that it is not li kely to be removable except by washing the
fabric or in the case of goods that are not ordinarily washed, it shall be of such nature that it is not
likely to be obliterated in the ordinary course of handling before the goods reach the purchaser.
(4) The marking shall be conspicuous and in a different colour from that of the fabric, upon
the fabric itself, and not upon a removable label or ticket. The marking shall not be upon an inner foldwhich cannot readily be seen, nor upon a wholly detached piece, but it may be upon piece that is
partly detached without being entirely severed. In the case of sarongs which are required to be
stamped, the stamping may be made on the selvage in the inner fold instead of one the uppermost fold
of the cloth. Marks which are stitched on the fabric and are easily removable by cutting shall not be
permitted.
177. Languages and numerals to be used for marking.- All markings required by sub-section(2)
of section 81 shall be in English and the international form of Indian numerals shall be used.
178. Indications of weight, length, name of manufacturer etc., (1) The weight of yarn or thread
in each bundle or unit shall ordinarily be indicated thereon in pounds or ounces in the English systemor in grammes according to the metric system.
(2) The length of threads in each bundle or unit shall be indicated thereon in yards or metres.
(3) The name of the manufacturer or of the wholesale purchaser in India shall be indicated in
full or, provided that the said name is clearly and unambiguously indicated thereby in an abbreviated
form, on each bundle or unit.
179 Manner of marking cotton yarn and cotton thread.- (1) Each bundle of cotton yarn shall
be marked with the particulars required under Sub-section (2) Section 81 of the Act by one or moreinscribed wrappers, labels or cards applied, affixed or stitched thereto, provided that all the required
particulars shall be contained on the exposed surface.
(2) Units of cotton thread shall be marked with the required particulars-
(a) When made up in skeins, by an inscribed label applied round each skein or bundle of
skeins or secured by twine thereto;
(b) When made up in balls, by an inscribed label attached to each ball, or inserted therein
but remaining exposed;
(c) When wound on cards, wheels, or stars, by inscription on the exposed portion of the
card, wheel or star;
(d) When wound on reels, by one or two inscribed label applied to the end or ends of the
reel;
(e) When wound on paper tubes or cones, by an inscribed label applied round or
otherwise affixed to the thread or to the exposed portion of the outer surface of the
tube or cone, or, where the diameter of the tube or cone is sufficient for the label to be
clearly exposed to views, to the inner surface of the tube or cone, or, by inscriptionon the exposed portion of the outer surface of the tube or cone;
(f) When made up in any other form, by an inscribed label or card applied, affixed or
stitched to or enclosed or inserted in, such make up.
(3)Labels or cards used in accordance with sub-rules (1)and (2) shall be so applied as not to
be easily detachable or removable from a bundle of cotton yarn or from each unit of cotton thread in
the ordinary course of handling before it reaches the normal consumer.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 52
180. Marking of cover.- Where units of cotton thread are enclosed in a cover, such cover shall
be marked with the required particulars.
181. Markings to be clear and distinct.- All markings on bundles of cotton yarn or units of cotton
thread shall be legible, distinct and in a colour which is not likely to be easily obliterated and which
shall be different from the colour of the surface marked.
182. Manner of expressing count of cotton-yarn.- The count of cotton yarn shall ordinarily be
expressed in English the metric system by adding the letter 'S' after the numeral or numerals where,
however, a bundles is packed on the metric system, the count shall be accompanied by the words
"metric count" or by some other clear and definite indication conveying the fact and in the absence of
such words or indication the marketing shall be regarded as indicating that it is in he English system.
183.Indication of other particulars.- Nothing in rules 177 shall be construed as prohibiting the
indication in any manner of other particulars relating to the cotton yarn or cotton thread so long as the
conspicuousness of the required particulars is not affected thereby.
184. Exemptions.- All premises where the work is done by members of one family with or without
the assistance of not more than ten other employees and all premises controlled by a co-operative
society where not more than twenty workers are employed in the premises shall be exempted from
the operation of rules 177 to 182.
PART VII
REPEAL
185. The Trade and Merchandise Marks Rules, 1959 are hereby repealed without prejudice to
anything done under such rules before the coming into force of the rules.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 53
THE FIRST SCHEDULE
[See rule 11]
Fees
Entry
No.On what payable Amount
Rs.P.Corresponding Form
No.
1. On application to register a trade mark for a
specification of goods or services included in
one class (Section 18(1)) 2500.00 TM-1
2. On application to register a textile mark
(other than a certification trade mark,
or a collective mark) consisting exclusivelyof numerals or letters or any combination
thereof for a specification of goods included
in one item of the Fifth Schedule under Rule
25(5) & 145. 2500.00 TM-22
3. On application to register a trade mark
for goods or services included in a class
from a convention country under section
18(1) & 154(2)2500.00 TM-2
4. On a single application under section 18(2)
for the registration of a trade mark for
different classes of goods or services from a
convention country under Section 154(2). 2500.00 for each class TM-52
5. On a single application u/s 18(2) for the
Registration of a trademark for different
classes of goods or services2500.00 for each class TM-51
6. On application to register a series trade
marks under section 15 for a specification of
goods or services included in a class.(i)For one trade mark
in the class 2500.00
(ii)For each additionaltrade mark.. 2500.00
(iii)For each additional
class .. 2500.00TM-8
7. On a application to register a series of trade
mark from convention country under section
154(2) for a specification of goods or
services included in a class or classes(i)For one trade mark
in the class 2500.00
(ii)For each additional
trade mark.. 2500.00
(iii)For each additional
class .. 2500.00TM-37
8. On application under Section 63(1)
to register a collective mark
for a specification of goods or services
included in a class.10,000.00 TM-3
9. On application under Section 71 (1)
to register a certification trade mark
for a specification of goods or services
included in a class.10,000.00 TM-4IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 54
10. On an application for the registration of a
textile trade mark (other than
a certification trade mark, or a
collective mark) consisting exclusively of
numerals or letters, or any combinationthereof for a specification of goods included
in one item of the Fifth Schedule under
Rule 145 from a convention country
under section 154(2) 2,500.00 TM-45
11. On a request under Rule 40(1) to state
grounds of decision. 1,000.00 TM-15
12. On a notice of opposition under
Section 21(1),64, 66 or 73 for each class
opposed2,500.00 TM-5
13. On application for extension of time
for filing notice of opposition underSection 21(1) 500.00 TM-44
14. On a counter-statement in answer
to a notice of opposition under Section 21,
for each application opposed, or in answer to
an application under any of the sections 47,
and 57 in respect of each trade mark, or inanswer to a notice of opposition under
Section 59 or Rule 101 for each application
or conversion opposed. 1,000.00 TM-6
15. On notice of intention to oppose hearing
under any of the Sections 21, 47, 57 and 59
by each party to the proceeding concerned 500.00 TM-7
16. On application under Section 16(5)
to dissolve the association between
registered trade marks 500.00 for each
dissolutionTM-14
17. For renewal under Section 25 of the
Registration of a trade mark in a class at theexpiration of the last registration not
otherwise charged 5,000.00 TM-12
18. For renewal under Section 25 of the
registration of a series trade mark
for each class at the expiration of the last
registration- 5,000.00TM-12
19. For renewal under Section 25 of a single
application of a trade mark for goods orservices in more than one class –
in respect of every class
5,000.00for each class TM-12
20. For renewal under section 25 of the
registration of a collective mark/ certification
trade mark10,000.00 TM-12IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 55
21. On application under Section 25(4)
for restoration and renewal after six months
are within one year form the expiration of the
last registration of a trade mark removed
from the register5,000.00 plus fee
applicable for renewal
under entries 17 to 20TM-13
22. On application for renewal under proviso to
section 25(3) within six months from theexpiration of last registration of the trade
mark.3,000.00 as surcharge TM-10
23. On application for certificate of the Registrar
Under Section 40 (2)
For the first mark proposed to be assigned
For every additional mark of the same
proprietor included in that assignment2,500.00
500.00TM-17
24. On application for approval of the
Registrar under Section 41 –
For the first trade mark
For every additional mark of the
same proprietor included in the
same transfer2,500.00
500.00TM-19
25. On application under Section 42 for
directions of a Registrar foradvertisement of assignment without
goodwill of trade mark in use -
For the First mark assigned
For every additional mark assigned
with the same devolution of title2,500.00
2,500.00
500.00TM-20
26. On application for extention of time for
applying for directions under Section 42 for
advertisement of assignment withoutgoodwill of trade mark in use in respect of
devolution of title-
not exceeding one month
not exceeding two monthsnot exceeding three months 500.00
1000.001500.00TM-21
27. On application under section 45 to
Register a subsequent proprietor in a
case of assignment or transfer of
a single trade mark –
If made within six months but before 12
months from the date of acquisition of
proprietorship
If made after 12 months from date of but
Before 12 months from the date of
acquisition of proprietorship5000.00
7500.00TM-23 or TM-24
TM-23 or TM-24
TM-23 or TM-24IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 56
If made after 12 months from the date of
acquisition of proprietorship10,000.00 TM-23 or TM-24
28. On application under Section 45 to register
a subsequent proprietor of more than one
trade mark registered in the same name, the
devolution of title being the same in each
case –
If made within six months from the date of
acquisition of proprietorship-
For the first mark
For every additional mark
If made after expiration of six months but
before 12 months from the date of
acquisition of proprietorship -
For the first mark
For every additional mark
If made after expiration of 12 months from
the date of acquisition of proprietorship -
For the first markFor every additional mark5000.00
1000.00
7500.00
1500.00
10000.00
2000.00TM-23 or TM-24
TM-23 or TM-24
TM-23 or TM-24
TM-23 or TM-24
TM-23 or TM-24
TM-23 or TM-24
29. On application under section 46(4) for
extension of time for registering a companyas subsequent proprietor of trade marks on
one assignment:-
Not exceeding two months
Not exceeding four monthsNot exceeding six months 500.00
1000.001500.00TM-25
30. On application under any of the Section 47,
and 57 for rectification of the register
or removal of a trade mark from the register
or cancellation of a registered collective
mark or a certification trade mark3000.00 TM-26
31. On application under Rule 94 for leave to
intervene in proceedings under any of the
sections 47 and 57 for rectification of theregister or removal of trade mark from the
register or under rule 133 or 139 in respect of
a collective mark or certification trade mark. 500.00 TM-27IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 57
32. On application under Section 49 to register a
registered user of a registered trade mark in
respect of goods or services within the
specification thereof 5000.00 TM-28
33. On application under Section 49 to register
the same registered user of more than oneregistered trade mark of the same registered
proprietor, where all the trade marks are
covered by the same registered user
agreement in respect of goods or services
within the respective specification thereof
and subject to the same conditions and
restrictions in each case -
For the first mark
For every additional mark of the proprietor
included in the application, and in the
registered user agreement5000.00
3000.00TM-28
34. On application under clause (a) of sub-
section 1 of Section 50 to vary the entry of a
registered user of one trade mark where the
trade marks are covered by the same
registered user in respect of each of them -
For the first markFor every additional mark included in the
application`
5000.00
2500.00TM-29
35. On application under clause (b) of sub-
section (1) of section 50 for cancellation of
the entry of a registered user of one trade
mark-
Where the application includes more than
one trade mark-
For the first mark
For every additional mark included in the
application2500.00
2500.00
500.00TM-30
36. On application under clause (c) or (d) sub-
section (1) of Section 50 to cancel the entry
of a registered user of one trade mark
Where the application includes more than
one trade mark -
For the first mark5000.00
5000.00TM-31IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 58
For every additional mark included in the
application2000.00
37. On notice under rule 90(2) of intention to
intervene in one proceeding for the variation
or cancellation of entries of a registered user
of a trade mark 500.00 TM-32
38. On application under Section 58 to change
the name or description of a registered
proprietor or a registered user of a trade mark
where there has been no change in the
proprietorship or in the identity of the
registered user (except where the application
is made as a result of an order of a public
authority or in consequence of a statutoryrequirement as per Law in India
where the application includes more than one
trade mark-
For the first trade mark
For every additional mark included in the
application1000.00
1000.00
1000.00
500.00TM-33
39. On application under Section 58 to alter an
entry of the address of a registered proprietor
or of a registered user of a trade mark unless
exempted from fee under rule 96(3):
Where the application include more than one
trade mark- and where the address in each
case is the same and is altered in the same
way-
For the first entry
For every other entry included in the
application 500.00
500.00
200.00TM-34
40. On application to make an entry of an
address for service in India of a registered
proprietor or a registered user of a trade mark
- where the application includes more than
one trade mark and the address for service to
be entered is the same in each case -
For the First entry
For every other entry included in the
application 500.00
500.00
200.00TM-50
41. On application to alter or substitute an entry
of an address for service in India in the
register unless exempted from fee under Rule
96(3).TM-50IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 59
Where the application includes more than
one trade mark and the address in each case
is the same and is altered or substituted in the
same way-
For the first entry
For every other entry included in the
application 500.00
500.00
200.00
42. On application under clause (c) of
sub-section 1 of Section 58 for cancelling the
entry or part thereof or under clause (d) to
strike out goods or services from the register. 200.00 TM-35 or TM-36
43. On application under section 59(1) for leave
to add or to alter a registered trade mark(except where the application is made as a
result of an order of a public authority or in
consequence of statutory requirement)-
where the application includes more than one
trade mark and the addition or alteration to
be made in each case being the same -
For the first mark
For every other mark included in the
application2500.00
2500.00
1000.00TM-38
44. On notice of opposition under sub-section (2)
of Section 59 to an application for leave toadd or to alter a registered trade mark for
each application opposed1500.00 TM-39
45. On application under section 60 for
conversion of specification1000.00 TM-40
46. On notice of opposition in each separate
class under sub-section 2 of Section 60 to a
conversion of the specification or
specifications of a registered trade mark:
For the first mark
For every additional mark included in the
notice of opposition1500.00
1500.00
700.00TM-41
47. On application under section 66 for
amendment of the deposited regulations of a
collective mark or alteration under section
74(2) of the regulation of a certification trademark –
Where the marks are entered in the register
as associated trade marks –
For the regulation of one registration1000.00
1000.00TM-42IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 60
For the same or substantially same regulation
of each additional registration proposed to be
altered in the same way and included in the
same application 200.00
48. On application under Section 68 to
remove the registration of a collective mark
or cancel or vary the registration of a
certification trade mark under section 771000.00 TM-43
49. For a search under Rule 24(1) in respect of
one class 500.00 TM-54
50. On request for the Registrar's preliminary
advice under Section 133 (1) for a trade markin respect of one class1000.00 TM-55
51. On request for certificate of the Registrar
under Section 137 [other than certificate
Under Section 23(2)] 500.00 TM-46
52. On request for certificate of Registrar [other
than certificate under Section 23(2)] of the
registration of a series of the trade mark
under section 15 for each class. 500.00 TM-46
53. On request for a certified copy of any entry
in the Register or of any document under
section 148(2) 500.00 TM-46
54. On request to enter in the register and
advertise a note of certificate of validity,under Rule 124 in respect of one mark in a
class 200.00 TM-47
55. On request, not otherwise charged for
Correction of clerical error or for
amendment, except where the request is
made as a result of an order of a public
authority or in consequence of a statutoryrequirement as per law in India. 500.00 TM-16
56. On application for extension of time for a
month or part thereof under Section 131(not
being a time expressly provided in the Act or
prescribed by Rule 79 or by Rule 80(4) 500.00 TM-56
57. On application for review of Registrar's
decision under section 127(c)2000.00 TM-57
58. On petitions(not otherwise charged) for
obtaining Registrar's orders on any
Interlocutory matter in a contested
proceeding2500.00
59. On request to Registrar for particulars
of advertisement of a mark under Rule 46. 250.00 TM-58
60. For inspecting the documents mentioned in
Section 148(1):-
(a) relating to any particular trade mark for
every hour or part thereof200.00IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 61
(b) computer search (when made available)
for every 15 minutes
(c)search of indexes mentioned in section
148 for every hour or part thereof400.00
200.00
61. For copying of documents, (Photocopy or
typed)for every page or part thereof in excess
of one page5.00 per page (subject
to a minimum of
Rs.5.00)
62. On request for a duplicate or further copy of
certificate rule 62(3) 500.00 TM-59
63. On a counterstatement in answer to a notice
of opposition , in respect of collective mark
or a certification trade mark under section64, 66, 73, or 771500.00 TM-9
64. For search and issue of certificate under
Rule 24(3)5000.00 TM-60
65. On application under sub-section (b) of
section 25 of Geographical Indications of
Goods (Registration and Protection)Act,1999
to refuse or invalidate the registration of a
trade mark which conflicts with or whichcontains or consists of a geographical
indication identifying goods or class or
classes of goods notified under sub-section
(2) of section 22 of the said Act.3000.00 TM-74
66. On application under sub-section (a) of
section 25 of Geographical Indications of
Goods (Registration and Protection)Act,1999to refuse or invalidate a trade mark
containing or consisting of a geographical
indication not originating in the territory of a
country, or a region or locality in that
territory which the geographical indicationindicates.3000.00 TM-73
67. Notice of intention to attend hearing under
Section 64, 66, 73 or 77 in respect of a
collective mark or in respect of a
certification trade mark, as the case may be 500.00 TM-7
68. On a request to divide an application or to
divide a single application under proviso to
Section 22.1,000.00
Plus appropriate
class feeTM-53
69. On application under sub-rule (16) of rule 25
towards inclusion of specification of goodsor services in excess of five hundred
characters at the time of filing of application
as excess space fee.10.00 per character TM-61
70. On application under section 43, rule 140(2)
for consent of Registrar to the assignment or
transmission of certification trade mark1000.00 TM-62IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 62
71. On application under rule 38(1) for the
expedited examination of an application for
the registration of a trade mark12500.00 TM-63
72. On application under section 63(1) to register
a collective mark of a specification of goods
or services included in a class from a
convention country under section 154(2)10000.00 TM-64
73. On application under section 71 to register a
certification trade mark for a specification ofgoods or services included in a class from
convention country under section 154(2).10000.00 TM-65
74. On request for an expedited certificate of the
Registrar (other than a certificate under
section 23(2) of the Act) or certified copies
of documents under proviso to rule 119. 2500.00 TM-70
75. On request for an expedited search under
Proviso to rule 24(1)2500.00 TM-71
76. On request for an expedited search and
issuance of a certificate under rule 24(5)25000.00 TM-72
77. On application for registration
as a trade marks agent under Rule 152. 1000.00 TMA-1
78. For registration of a person as a trade mark
agent under Rule 154 1000.00
79. For continuance of the name of a person in
the Register of Trade Marks Agents underRule 156:-
For every year (excluding the first year) to be
Paid on the 1
st April, in each year
For the first year to be paid along with the
fee or registration, in the case of a person
registered at any time between the 1st April,
and 30th September
N.B. A year for this purpose will commence
on the 1st day of April and end on the 31st
day of March following.1000.00
1000.00
80. On application for restoration of the name of
a person to the Register of Trade Marks
Agents under rule 159.1000.00 plus
continuance fee under
entryNo.79TMA-2
81. On application for an alteration of any entry
in the Register of Trade Marks Agent underrule 160 200.00 TMA-3
82. For each addition to the registered entry of a
trade mark that may be associated with a
newly registered mark 500.00IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 63
83. On a single application under section 18(2)
for the registration of a collective mark for
different classes of goods or services10000.00 for each
classTM-66
84. On a single application under section 18(2)
for the registration of a collective mark for
different class of goods or services from a
convention country.10000.00 for each
classTM-67
85. On a single application under section 18(2)
for the registration of a certification trademark for different class of goods or services10000.00 for each
classTM-68
86. On a single application under section 18(2)
for the registration of a certification trade
mark for different class of goods or services
from a convention country under section
154(2)10000.00 for each
classTM-69
87. On request for search and issuance of a
certificate pursuant to clause (ii) of sub-
section (2) of section 20 of the CompaniesAct, 19565000.00 TM-75IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 64
THE SECOND SCHEDULE
FORMS
List of Forms
Form
No.Section of the
ActTitle Entry number of
First Schedule
TM-1 18(1) Application for registration of a trade mark for
goods or services (other than a collective mark
or a certification trade mark)1
TM-2 18(1), 154(2) Application for registration of a trade mark
from convention country (other than a
collective mark or a certification trade mark)3
TM-3 63(1) Application for registration of a collective
mark8
TM-4 71(1) Application for registration of a certification
trade mark.9
TM-5 21(1), 64, 66, 73 Notice of opposition to an application for
registration of a trade mark, collective mark
or certification trade mark.12
TM-6 21(2),47,57,
59(2)Form of counter statement 14
TM-7 21(5), 47, 57
and 59, 64,66,
73 and 77Notice of intention to attend hearing 15 and 67
TM-8 15(3) Application for registration of series trade
marks for goods or services in a class or
different classes6
TM-9 64, 66, 73 & 77 Form of counterstatement in answer to Notice
of Opposition in respect of a collective mark or
a certification trade mark63
TM-10 Provision to
section 25(3)Payment of surcharge towards renewal of trade
mark, certification trade mark or a collective
mark.22
TM-11 Rule 32 Request for search and issuance of certificate
under rule 3287
TM-12 Application for renewal after expiry of last
registration of a trade mark/collective mark/
certification trade mark17 to 20
TM-13 25(4) Application for restoration of a trade mark
removed from the register21
TM-14 16(5) Application to dissolve association between
registered trade mark16
TM-15 Rule 40 Request for statement of grounds of decision 11
TM-16 18(4) 22 and 58
rule 41Request for correction of clerical error or for
amendment55IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 65
TM-17 40(2)rule 77 Application for the certificate of the Registrar
under Section 40(2) with regard to proposed
assignment of registered trade mark.23
TM-18 40(2) rule 68 Affidavit in support of statement of case
TM-19 41 Rule 77 Application for approval by the Registrar of a
proposed assignment or transmission of trade
mark resulting in exclusive rights in different
parts of India.24
TM-20 42, rule 74(1) Application for directions for advertisement of
an assignment of trade marks otherwise than in
connection with goodwill of the business.25
TM-21 42 and rule 74
(3)Application for extension of time in which to
apply for the Registrar’s directions for theadvertisement of an assignment of trade marks
otherwise than in connection with the goodwill
of the business.26
TM-22 18(1)rule 25(5),
144 and 145Application to register a textile trade mark
(other than a certification trade mark or a
collective mark) consisting exclusively of
numerals or letters or any combination thereoffor a specification of goods included in one
item of the Fifth Schedule under rule 1452
TM-23 45 Joint request by registered proprietor and
transferee to register the transferee as
subsequent proprietor of trade marks upon the
same devolution of title.27, 28
TM-24 45, rule 68 Request to register a subsequent proprietor of a
trade mark or trade marks upon the samedevolution of title.27, 28
TM-25 46(4)rule 79 Application for extension of time for the
registration of the name of a company as a
subsequent proprietor of a trade mark in the
register.29
TM-26 47,57 rule 92, Application for the rectification of the register
or the removal of a trade mark from the
register.30
TM-27 Rule 94 Application for leave to intervene in
proceedings relating to the rectification of the
register or theremoval of a trade mark from the register or a
collective mark or a certification trade mark.31
TM-28 49 rule 80 Application for registration of registered user 32.,33
TM-29 50(1) (a) rule 87 Application by the registered proprietor of a
trade mark for variation of the registered user
thereof with regard to the goods or services or
the condition or restriction.34IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 66
TM-30 50(1)(b) Application by the Registered Proprietor of
trade mark or by any of the registered users
of the trade mark for the cancellation of entry
of a registered user thereof.35
TM-31 50(1) ( c) or (d)
rule 88(1)Application for cancellation of entry of a
registered user of a trade mark of a trade mark36
TM-32 Rule 90(2) Notice of intention to intervene in proceedings
for the variation or cancellation of an entry
of a registered user of a trade mark37
TM-33 58 Request to enter change of name or description
of registered proprietor (or registered user oftrade mark upon the register).38
TM-34 58 Request for alteration of the address of the
Principal place of business of residence in
India or of the address in the home country
broad in the Register of Trade Marks39
TM-35 58 (1) (c ) Application by registered proprietor of trade
mark for the cancellation of entry thereof in the
register.42
TM-36 58(1) (d) Application by registered proprietor of trade
Mark to strike out goods or services from those
for which the trade mark is registered.42
TM-37 15(3)
rule 25(11)26and 31Application in respect of series trade mark
from convention countries under section154(2)for goods or services in a class or for
different classes7
TM-38 59 Application by registered proprietor under
Section 59 for an addition to or alteration of a
registered trade mark43
TM-39 59(2) rule 99(2) Notice of opposition to application for addition
to or alteration of a registered trade mark44
TM-40 60 rule 101 Application by the proprietor of a registered
trade mark for the conversion of the
specification45
TM-41 60(2)
rule 101(4)Notice of opposition to proposal for conversion
of specification under section 60(2)46
TM-42 66, 74(2) Request for amendment of deposited
regulations governing the use of a collective
mark or alteration of deposited regulation of acertification trade mark47
TM-43 66, 77 rule 133,
139Application for removal from the register of a
collective mark or to cancel or vary the
registration of a certification trade mark48
TM-44 21(1) rule 47(6) Application for extension of time for giving
notice of opposition to a trade mark13
TM-45 Rule 25(6), 144
and 145An application to register a textile trade mark
(other than a collective mark or certification
trade mark) consisting exclusively of numerals
or letters or any combination thereof for a
specification of goods included in one item ofthe Fifth Schedule from a convention country10IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 67
u/s 154(2)
TM-46 137, 148(2) Request for certificate of the Registrar or
certified copies of documents51 to 53
TM-47 141 rule 124 Request for entry in the register and
advertisement of a note of the certificate ofvalidity by the Appellate Board.54
TM-48 145 rule 21 Form of Authorisation of Agent in a matter or
proceeding under the Act
TM-49 63(1), 74(1)
rule 128(5) or
135(1)Regulations for governing the use of collective
trade mark or certification trade mark
TM-50 Rule 91, 96, 97 Form of request by a registered proprietor or a
registered user of a trade mark who has no
principal place of business in India, to enter,
alter or substitute an address for service in
India .40, 41
TM-51 18(2) rule 25(9) A single application under section 18(2) for
registration of a trade mark for goods orservices in different classes.5
TM-52 18(2) rule 25(4) A single application u/s 18(2) for registration
of a trade mark from convention country u/s
154(2)4
TM-53 Proviso to
section 22,
rule 104Divisional application 68
TM-54 rule 24(1) Request for search 49
TM-55 133(1) Preliminary advice as to distinctiveness 50
TM-56 131 Request for extension of time 56
TM-57 127 (c ) On application for review of Registrar’s
decision57
TM-58 Rule 46 Application for particulars of advertisement of
a trade mark59
TM-59 Rule 62(3) Application for duplicate or further copy of
certificate of registration62
TM-60 Rule 24(3) Application for search and certificate under
Section 45(1) of the Copyright Act, 195764
TM-61 Rule 25(16) Application for inclusion of specification of
goods or services in excess of 500 characters69
TM-62 43 rule 140(2) Application for the consent of the Registrar to
rule Assignment or transmission of
certification trade mark70
TM-63 Rule 38(1) Application for expedited examination of an
application for the registration of a trade mark
under rule 38(1)71
TM-64 63(1)
rule 128(1)Application to register a collective mark for a
specification of goods or services included in a
class from a convention country under section154(2)72IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 68
TM-65 Rule 135(1) Application under section71 to register a
Certification trade mark for a specification of
goods or services included in a class from
convention country under section 154(2)73
TM-66 18(2), 63(1) Single application for registration of a
collective mark for different classes of goods
or services83
TM-67 18(2) 63(1)
154(2)Single application for registration of a
collective mark for different classes of goodsor services from a convention country under
section 154(2)84
TM-68 18(2), 71 Single application for registration of a
certification trade mark for different classes of
goods or services85
TM-69 18(2), 71 154(2) Single application for registration of a
certification trade mark for different classes of
goods or services from a convention country
under section 154(2)86
TM-70 Proviso to
rule 119Request for expedited certificate of the
Registrar or certified copies of documents74
TM-71 Proviso to
rule 24(1)Request for expedited search in respect of one
class75
TM-72 Rule 24(5) Request for expedited search certificate under
section 45(1) of the Copyright Act, 195776
TM-73 Section 25(a) of
GeographicalIndications of
goods
(Registration
and Protection)
Act, 1999,rule 74(2) of
Geographical
Indications
Goods Rules,
2002 and rule102 of Trade
Marks Rules,
2002.Request to refuse or invalidate a trade mark
consisting of a Geographical Indication.66
TM-74 Section 25(b) of
the
Geographical
Indications ofGoods
(Registration
and Protection)
Act, 1999,
rule 75(2) of
Geographical
IndicationGoods RulesRequest to refuse or invalidate a trade mark
conflicting with or containing or consisting of
a geographical indication notified under sub-
section (2) of section 22 of the GeographicalIndications of Goods (Registration and
Protection) Act, 199965IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 69
and rule 102 of
Trade Marks
Rules, 2002
TMA-1 Rule 153 Application for registration as a trade mark
agent77
TMA-2 Rule 159 Application for restoration of the name of
person to the Register of Trade Marks Agents80
TMA-3 Rule 160 Application for the alteration of an entry in the
Register of Trade Marks Agents.81IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 70
FORM TM-1
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee: Rs.2500/-
Application for registration of a trade mark for goods or services (other than a collective mark
or a certification trade mark) in the register
Section 18(1), Rule 25(2).
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by five additional representations of the trade mark)
One representation to be fixed within this
space and five others to be sent separately.Representation of a larger size may be
folded but must then be mounted upon linen
or other suitable material and affixed hereto.
See rule 28.
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
trade mark in class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................in the name(s) of
3................... whose address is 4 ....................... who claim (s) to be the proprietor(s) thereof [and by
whom the said mark is proposed to be used 5 or (and by whom and his (their) predecessor(s) in title 6
the said mark has been continuously used since ..........] in respect of the said goods or services.7
8..................................9................................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........20............
10..SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS.
To
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at 11…..
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class of the goods or services is not known.2. Specify the goods or services for the class in respect of which application is made. A
separate sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods or
services should not ordinarily exceed 500 characters. An excess space fee of Rs.10 per
character is payable beyond this limit. See rule 25(16). The applicant must state the exactIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 71
number of excess characters where the specification of goods or services exceeds 500
characters at the space provided immediately before the signature.
3. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the
applicant). In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names
and descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, asthe case may be, should be stated. See rule 16.
4. The applicant shall state the address of his principal place of business in India, if any. See
rules 3 and 17(If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services for which
registration is sought at only one place in India, such fact should be stated and the address of
the place given. If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services concerned at
more places than one in India the applicant should state such fact and give the address of thatplace of business which he considers to be his principal place of business. If, however, the
applicant does not carry on business in the goods or services concerned but carries on
business in other goods or services at any one place in India this fact should be stated and the
address of that place given; and where the applicant carries on such business at more places
than one in India such fact should be stated and the address of the place which he considersto be his principal place of business given. Where the applicant is not carrying on any
business in India the fact should be stated and the place of his residence in India, if any,
should be stated and the address of that place given. In addition to the principal place of
business or of residence in India, as the case may be, an applicant may if he so desires given
an address in India to which communications relating to the application may be sent). seerule 19. Where the applicant has neither a place of business nor of residence in India the fact
should be stated and an address for service in India given along with his address in his home
country abroad.
5. Strike out if the mark is already in use6. Strike out the words if not applicable. If user by predecessor(s) in title is claimed the
name(s) of such person(s) together with the date of commencement of use by the applicant
himself should be stated at 8.
7. If there has been no use of the trade mark in respect of all the goods or services specified at 2,
the items of goods or services in respect of which the mark has actually been used should be
stated.
8 For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank .9 If colour combination is claimed, clearly indicate it and state the
colours. If the application is in respect of a three dimensional trade mark statement to that
effect [See Rule 25 and 29 ] .
10. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Sec. 145.)
11. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry.[See
Rule 4].IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 72
FORM TM-2
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee: Rs.2500/-
Application for the registration of a trade mark (other than a collective mark or a certificate
trade mark) in the Register from a convention country
[Sections 18(1), 154(2); Rules 25(3), 26]
(To be filled in triplicate accompanied by five additional representation of the trade mark)
One representation to be fixed
within this space and five others to
be sent separately. Representation
of the larger size may be folded but
must then be mounted upon linen or
other suitable material affixedthereto.( See rule 28.)
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
trade mark in class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................in the name(s) of
3................... whose address is 4 ....................... who claim (s) to be the proprietor(s) thereof [and by
whom the said mark is proposed to be used 5 or (and by whom and his (their) predecessor(s) in title 6
the said mark has been continuously used since ..........] in respect of the said goods or services.7
The application in a convention country to register the trade mark has been made in
on…….
A certified copy certified by an official of the convention country in which the application
was filed is enclosed (along with its translation in English).
I/We request that the trade mark may be registered with priority date based on the above
mentioned application in a convention country under the provisions of Section 154 of the Act.
8..................................9................................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........20............
10..SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS.
To
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at 11 .......................
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class of the goods or services is not known.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 73
2. Specify the goods or services for the class in respect of which application is made. A
separate sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods or
services should not ordinarily exceed 500 characters. An excess space fee of Rs.10 per
alphabetic character is payable beyond this limit. See rule 25(16). The applicant must state
the exact number of excess alphabetic characters where the specification of goods or servicesexceeds 500 character at the space provided immediately before the signature.
3. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the
applicant). In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names
and descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as
the case may be, should be stated. See rule 16.
4. The applicant must state the address of his principal place of business in India. if any. See
rules 3 and 17(If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services for which
registration is sought at only one place in India such fact should be stated and the address of
the place given. If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services concerned at
more places than one in India the applicant should state such fact and give the address of thatplace of business which he considers to be his principal place of business. If, however, the
applicant does not carry on business in the goods or services concerned but carries on
business in other goods or services at any one place in India this fact should be stated and the
address of that place given; and where the applicant carries on such business at more places
than one in India such fact should be stated and the address of the place which he considersto be his principal place of business given. Where the applicant is not carrying on any
business in India the fact should be stated and the place of his residence in India, if any,
should be stated and the address of that place given. In addition to the principal place of
business or of residence in India, as the case may be, an applicant may if he so desires given
an address in India to which communications relating to the application may be sent). seerule 19. Where the applicant has neither a place of business nor of residence in India the fact
should be stated and an address for service in India given along with his address in his home
country abroad.
5. Strike out if the mark is already in use6. Strike out the words if not applicable. If user by predecessor(s) in title is claimed the
name(s) of such person(s) together with the date of commencement of use by the applicant
himself should be stated at 8.
7. If there has been no use of the trade mark in respect of all the goods or services specified at 2,
the items of goods or services in respect of which the mark has actually been used should bestated.
8. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank.9. If colour combination is claimed, clearly indicate it and state the colours . If the
application is in respect of a three dimensional mark, statement to that effect [See Rule 25
and 29 ] .
10. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Sec. 145).
11. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry.[See
Rule 4].IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 74
FORM TM-3
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee Rs.10,000/-
Application for registration of a Collective Trade Mark
[Section 63(1), Rules 25(7)(a) and 128(1)]
(To be filed in triplicate and accompanied by five representation of the collective mark and three
copies of the draft regulation in Form TM-49 ).
________________________________________________________________________One representation to be fixed within this space and four others to be sent separately. Representation
of a larger size may be folded but must then be mounted upon linen or other suitable material and
affixed hereto: see rule 28.
_______________________________________________________________________
Application is hereby made for registration in th e register of the accompanying Collective Trade
Mark in class[1] ...............in respect of[2] ......................in the name of [3] .................... whose
address is [4] ......................................................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ...............day of ............20.......
5.................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks,
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [6]
1. Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class is not known.
2. Specify the goods or services for the class in respect of which application is made. A separate
sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods or services
should not ordinarily exceed 500 characters. An excess space fee of Rs.10 per character ispayable beyond this limit. See rule 25(16). The applicant must state the exact the number of
excess characters where the specification of goods or services exceeds of 500 characters at
the space provided immediately before the signature.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 75
3. Insert the full name, description (occupation, calling and nationality) of the applicant. If the
applicant is a body corporate, the nature and country of incorporation should be stated. See
Rule 16.
4. Here insert the full address of the applicant. [Address of the principal place of business or of
residence in India, if any or address for se rvice in India together with the address in the
home country abroad].
5. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant). (See Sec. 145).
6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- See rule 4. IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 76
FORM TM-4
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee.Rs.10,000/-
Application for registration of a Certification Trade Mark
[See Section 71, Rules 25(8) (a) and 135]
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by five representation of the Certification Trade Mark and three
copies of the draft regulation with Form TM-49).
________________________________________________________________________One representation to be fixed within this space and four others to be sent separately. Representation
of a larger size may be folded but must then be mounted upon linen or other suitable material and
affixed hereto: see rule 28.
______________________________________________________________________
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying Certification TradeMark in class[1] ...............in respect of[2] ......................in the name of [3] .................... whose
address is [4] ...................................................... The applicant(s) is (are) not carrying on business in
the goods or services of the kind for which registration of the said Certification Trade Mark is sought.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ...............day of ............20.......
5.................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks,
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [6]
1. Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class is not known.2. Specify the goods or services.
3. Insert the full name, description (occupation, calling and nationality) of the applicant. If the
applicant is a body corporate, the nature and country of incorporation should be stated. See
rule 16.
4. Here insert the full address of the applicant. [Address of the principal place of business or of
residence in India, if any or address for se rvice in India together with the address in the
home country abroad].
5. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant. See Sec. 145).
6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- See rule 4.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 77
FORM TM-5
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee; Rs.2500/-
Notice of opposition to application for registration of a trade mark or a Collective mark or a
certification mark-
[Section 21(1). 64,73. Rules 47(1).131(1) and 138(1)
(To be filed in triplicate)
In the matter of Application No...................by .................I(or we)' ...................... hereby give notice of
my (or our) intention to oppose the registration of the trade mark/certification mark/collective mark/
2advertised under the above number for class ............in the Trade Marks Journal dated the
............day of.........20......No..............page.....................
The grounds of opposition are as follows:-
3............................. 'All communications in relation to these proceedings may be sent to the following address in India
........................................ ........................... ................................
.......................
Dated this ....................... day of ........................ 20............
SIGNATURE {4}
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks,The office of the Trade Marks Registry at[5]
1. State full name and address. An address for service in India should be given if the opponent
has no place of business or of residence in India.
2. Strike out whichever is not necessary
3. If registration is opposed on the ground that the mark resembles marks already on the register
the numbers of those marks and of the journals in which they have been advertised are to be
set out.
4. Signature of the opponent or of his agent.
5. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry - See rule 4.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 78
FORM TM-6
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Rs.1000/-
Form of Counterstatement
(Sections 21(2), 47, 57, 59(2), Rules 49, 93,99,101)
(To be filed in triplicate)
1. In the matter of an opposition No...............to application No................in class _____for the
registration of a trade mark.
I (or we){1}' ....................the applicant(s) for registration of the above trade mark, hereby give notice
that the following are the grounds on which I (or we) rely for my(or our) application:-
I (or we) {1}admit the following allegations in the notice of opposition................
All communications in relation to these proceedings may be sent to the following address in
India:
................................... ................................
Dated this ............day of.........20......
{2}..............................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at {3}......................
1. State the full name and address as stated in the application for registration2. Signature of the applicant or of his agent.3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry - See rule 4.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 79
FORM TM-7
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee Rs.500/-
Notice of intention to attend hearings
[section 21, 47, 57, 59, and 73 and 77;.
Rules 56(1),93, 99,101, 131, 132, 133,1 38, 139 and 140]
In the matter of '....................................................................I(or We)2.............................. h ereby give
notice that the hearing in reference to the above matter, which by the official notice to me (or us),
dated the ..................day of ............20............is fixed for ..........A.M. or .........P.M. at..............the 3
...........................on the day of ......................20...................will be attended by me (or us) or by some
person on my (our) behalf.
All communications relating to this proceeding may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ....................day of .............20.......
4.SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [5]
1. Insert particulars as in the official notice2. Insert name and address3. Insert the office of the Trade Marks Registry or place at which hearing will take place
according to the official notice.
4. Signature of person giving the notice or of his agent5. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry - See rule 4.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 80
FORM TM-8
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee: See Entry No.6 of the First Schedule
Application for registration of series trade mark for goods or services (other than a collective
mark or a certification trade mark) in a class or for different classes
[Section 15(3), Rules 25(10) and 31.]
2. (To be filed in triplicate accompanied by five additional representations of the trade mark)
One representation to be fixed within this space and
others to be sent separately. Representation of a larger
size may be folded but must then be mounted upon linen
or other suitable material and affixed hereto. See rule 28.
Application is hereby made for registration in the register as a series trade mark for the
accompanying trade mark in class {2}................................. in respect of {3}........................in thename(s) of {4}
................... whose address is {5} ....................... who claim (s) to be the proprietor(s) thereof [and by
whom the said mark is proposed to be used {6} or (and by whom and his (their) predecessor(s) in
title {7} the said mark has been continuously used since .......19...] in respect of the said goods or
services {8}
{9}
.................................. .
...............................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........19............
...................{10}......
............................
[10] NAME OF THE SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade marks, {11}
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at........................
1. Strike out whichever us not necessary
2. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class of the goods or services is not known. In
the case of marks consisting of letters or numerals or any combination thereof relating to textile
goods, the item number of the Fifth Schedule should be stated if the goods fall in any of the itemsof the said Schedule.(See rule 144)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 81
3. The applicant shall state the exact number of excess characters where the specifica tin of goods
or services exceeds five hundred characters at the space provided immediately before the
signature.
4. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation , calling and nationality of the applicant). In
the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names and descriptions of
the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as the case may be, shouldbe stated (see rule 16)
5. The applicant shall state the address of the principa l place of business in India, if any(see rules 3
and 17) (If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services for which registration is
sought at only one place in India, such fact should be stated and the address of the place given . If
the applicant carries on business in the goods or services concerned at more places than one inIndia the applicant should state fact and give the address of that place of business which heconsiders to be his principal place of business. If, however, the applicant does into carry on
business in the goods or services concerned but carried on business in other goods or services at
any one place in India, this fact should be stat ed and the address of that place given, and where
the applicant carries on such business at more places than one in India such fact should be stated
and the address of the place which he considers to be his principal place of business given.
Where the applicant is not carrying on any business in India, the fact should be stated at end andthe place of his residence in India, if any, should be stated and the address of that place given. In
addition to the principal place of business or of residence in India, as the case may be, an
applicant may if he so desires give an address in India, to which communications relating to theapplication may be sent.(see rule 19). Where the applicant has neither a place of business nor of
residence in India the fact should be stated and an address for service in India given along with his
address in his home country abroad.
6. Strike out if the mark is already in use
7. Strike out the words in if not applicable. If user by predecessor(s) in title is claimed the name(s)
of such person(s) together with the date of commencement of use by the applicant himself should
be stated at 9.
8. If there has been no use of the trade mark in respect of all the goods or services specified at 3, the
items of goods or services in respect of which the mark has actually been used should be stated.
9. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank. If colour combination is claimed,
clearly indicate and state the colour. If the applic ation is in respect of a three dimensional mark,
a statement to that effect(See rule 25 and 29)
10. Signature of the applicant or of his agent(legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant(see section 123)
11. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry (See rule 4)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 82
FORM TM-9
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs.1500/-
Form of counterstatement in respect of collective mark or certification trade mark.
[Section 64, 66, 73 and 77; Rules 131 to 133 and 137 to 140].
(To be filled in triplicate)
In the matter of an Opposition NO.....................to application No...............for registration of a
Collective mark or a Certification trade Mark.1
I(or we)2 .............................................................the applicant(s) in respect of the above numbered
application, hereby give notice that the following are the grounds on which I (or we) rely as
supporting my(or our) application.
I (or we) admit the following allegations in the notice of opposition:
All communications relating to these proceedings may be sent to the following address in IndiaDated this ............day.......20.....
3 SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks,
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [4]...............
1. Strike out whichever is not applicable
2. Insert full name and nationality. An address for service in India should be given if the opponent
has no place of business or of residence in India.
3. Signature of the applicant or of his agent.4. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry-
See Rule 4.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 83
FORM TM-10
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee. Rs.3,000/-
Application for payment of surcharge towards ren ewal of a trade mark, collective mark and
certification trade mark
[Section 25(3) proviso; Rules 65, 132(b) and 138(3)]
I (or we) {1} …………….. [2]the registered proprietor/s hereby apply for the renewal of registration
of registered trade mark collective mark/certi fication trade mark No. in class ………which has
expired on ……………and the renewal certificate be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this …………………day ………of 20…
Signature {3}
Name of signatory in Letters
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [4]...............
1. Strike out whichever is not applicable
2. Insert here the full name and address of the Registered Proprietor.
3. Signature of the registered proprietor or of his agent.4. State name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- See rule 4IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 84
FORM TM-11
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agents Code No.:
Fee Rs.5,000/- Proprietor’s Code No.:
Request for search and issuance of certificate under rule 32
I/We ……………………….. request the Registrar to search and ascertain whether any trade mark(s)
is (are) on record which resembles the name (or proposed name) of the company sent herewith in
triplicate (each representation being mounted on a sheet of strong paper approximately 33 cm by 20cm in size) and issue a certificate.
All communication relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India(1):-
Date this ……………….. day…….. of ……20
(2) SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks………
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at…..
1. Address in India
2. SignatureIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 85
FORM TM-12
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Renewal of registration of trade mark/collective mark/certification trade mark1
[Section 25, Rules 63(1), 132(b) and 138(3)
I (or we) 2 ...............................................................................................................here by leave the
prescribed fee of Rs...................for renewal of registration of the Trade Mark/Collective
mark/certification trade mark No................in Class ................... The Notice of renewal of the
registration may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .............day of..........20.............
[3] SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNAORY INLETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [4]...............
1. Strike out whichever is not applicable.
2. Insert here the name and address of the Registered Proprietor.
3. Signature of the registered proprietor or of his agent.
4. State name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- See rule 4.
Note- This form will be returned if it is filed more than six months before the expiration of the last
registration. Attention is also invited to Section 159 (6).
Fee: See entries Nos. 17 to 20 and 22 of the First Schedule.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 86
FORM TM-13
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee. Rs.5000 plus the applicable renewal fee prescribed under entry Nos. 17 to 20 of the First
schedule
Restoration of trade mark removed from register for non-payment of renewal fee.
[Section 25(4); Rules 66, 132(b),and 138(3)]
I (or we) {1} ............................................................................hereby apply that the Trade mark
numbered...................................................................in class/(s) ....................be restored to the register
and the registration of the said Trade Mark in the class/(s) aforesaid be renewed, and that the notice ofrestoration and renewal be sent to the following address in India .
Dated this ................day of .............. 20
...............................
SIGNATURE {2}
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at .{3}.................
1. Insert full name, address and nationality of the registered proprietor
2. Signature of the registered proprietor or of his agent
3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry - See rule 4.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 87
FORM TM-14
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs.500 for each dissolution.Application to dissolve the Association between a registered trade mark and (an) other
registered trade mark(s).
[section 16(5); Rule 60(2)]
(To be accompanied by a statement of case)
In the matter of a Trade Mark No.................................................registered in class................
I (or We) ............................................................................... being the registered proprietor(s) of the
above numbered Trade Mark, hereby apply that the association of this Trade Mark with the following
Trade Mark(s) registered in my (our) name:-
{1}No.......................register in class
No.....................registered in class
may be dissolved and the register amended accordingly.
The grounds for this application are set forth in the accompanying statement of case
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ......................day of ................20.......
{2}.........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office o the Trade Marks Registry at {3}....................
1. Additional numbers may be given in signed schedule on the reverse of the Form
2. Signature of the registered proprietor(s)or of his (their agent)3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry See Rule 4.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 88
FORM TM-15
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee Rs.1000/-
Request for statement of grounds of decision,
[Rule 40(1)]
In the matter of {1} .............................................................................. the Registrar is hereby req uested
to state in writing the grounds of his decision dated the ....................day of ..........
20............................after the hearing on the ............................day of .............20...............and th e
materials used by him in arriving at the decision.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ......................day of ..................20.................
{2}...............................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at {3}...................
1. Insert particulars identifying the application.2. Signature of the applicant or of his agent.3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry - See rule 4.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 89
FORM TM-16
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Rs.500/-
Request for correction of clerical error, or for amendment.
Sections 18(4), 22 and 58 Rules 41,91,97.
In the matter of{1}' ...................................................................................
I(or we) .......................................................... being the [2] applicant (s) in the above ma tter
hereby Opponent(s)
Regd. Proprietor(s)
Registered User (s)
request that ...............................
....................................
..................................
the registered proprietor(s)
{3} A Copy of the request has been served on the registered user (s)
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .................day of ......20.........
{4} ........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
ToThe Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at {5}................
1. Insert words and reference number identifying the entry or application or opposition2. Strike out words not applicable
3. Strike out if not applicable
4. Signature5. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry
See Rule 4.
Note: No fee is payable where the request for correction or amendment is made as a result of
an order of a public authority or in consequence of a statutory requirement.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 90
FORM TM-17
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Rs. 2500/- for the first trade mark and Rs.500/- fo r every additional trade mark included in the
assignment
Application for the certificate of the Registrar under Section 40(2) with reference to a proposed
assignment of a registered trade mark.
[ Rule 77].
(To be accompanied by a statement of case in duplicate and a copy of the proposed
assignment)
In the matter of Trade Mark(s) No(s)...........................................................registered in the name of
...................................................................in class (es)...................................
Application is hereby made by ' ...............................................bei ng the registered proprietor (s) of
the abovementioned registered trade mark(s) for the Registrar's certificate under section 40(2) with
reference to a proposed assignment of the registered trade mark(s) No.(s)................
to[2]............................ in circumstances that are stated fully in the accompanying statement of case.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .....................day of ........20.........
[3].........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [4] .................
1. Insert the full name and address of the registered proprietor.
2. Insert the full name, address and nationality of the proposed assignee.3. Signature of the registered proprietor or of his agent.4. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry.
(See Rule 4).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 91
FORM TM-18
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Affidavit
( to be furnished when required by Registrar in support of statement of case filed under Section40(2) or accompanying a request under rule 68)
(To be stamped as per rules for the time being in force)
I,{1} ....................................of .................................do hereby solemnly and sincerely declare that the
particulars set out in the statement of case, e xhibit marked ....................and left by me in connection
with [2]........................... in respect of the Trade Mark No.................in class ......................are true and
comprise every material fact and document affecting the present proprietorship of the Trade Mark, to
the best of my knowledge, information and belief.
[3].....................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Declared at .....................
this ......................day of ..........20...............
Before me {4}...................
1. Insert full name, address and nationality of deponent.2. Insert particulars of the proceedings concerned.
3. To be signed here by the person making the declaration.
4. Signature and title of authority before whom affidavit is taken. In India affidavit may be
taken before any Court or person having by law authority to receive evidence or before an
officer empowered by a Court to administer oath. Outside India affidavit may be taken beforea Diplomatic or Consular Officer within the meaning of the Diplomatic and Consular officers
(Oaths and Fees) Act, 1948, of such country or place or before a Notary of the place if the
notarial acts done by notaries of the place have been recognised by the Central Government
under Section 14 of the Notaries Act, 1952.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 92
FORM TM-19
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Rs. 2500/- for the first trade mark and Rs.500/- for every other trade mark
Application for the approval by the Registrar under Section 41 of a proposed assignment, or of
transmission of a trade mark, resulting in excl usive rights in different persons for different
parts of India.
[Rule 77].
(To be accompanied by a statement of case in duplicate and a copy of the instrument proposed for the
assignment or effecting the transmission).
In the matter of trade mark(s)............................................................'[Registered under
NO.(s)...........................in class(es)..............................]
Application is hereby made by
*(I)2 ....................the proprietor of the trade mark (s) shown in the accompanying statement of case
(registered in his name)3 and (used by him)3 in respect of the following goods or
services............................................... for the approval by the Registrar of a proposed assignment of
the trade marks(s) to 4..................................in respect of the following goods or services
.....................to be sold or otherwise traded in 5 ..............(and to 6 ..........................in respect of all t he
following goods or services....................to be sold or otherwise traded in 5.....................) incircumstances that are stated fully in the accompanying statement of case.
*(II)7 ...............who claims that the trade mark(s) shown in the accompanying statement of case, was
(were) in respect of the following goods or services , namely..................and on the [8]........... day of
............[20]...............transmitted to him [9]...............who was his predecessor in title,] by or from[10]..............by whom the Trade Mark was then used in respect of the following goods or services
namely ...................all in circumstances that are stated fully in the accompanying Statement of Case,
for the approval by the Registrar of the aforesaid transmission.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India.Dated this ....................day of ..........20.........
11.................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
ToThe Registrar of Trade Marks,
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at {12}...................
*Strike out either paragraph (I) or paragraph (II)
1. To be struck out in the case of unregistered trade mark
2. Insert the name and address of the proprietor
3. Strike out either if not applicable
4. Insert the name(s) and address(es) of the proposed assignee(s)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 93
5. Insert the name(s) of the place(s) in India
6. Strike out the bracketed passage if not required.
7. Insert the name and address of the person who claims a transmission to him.
8. Insert the date of the transmission
9. Insert the name and address of the predecessor in title, if any
10. Insert the name and address of the person who transmitted11. Signature of the applicant or of his agent
12. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry
(See rule 4)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 94
FORM TM-20
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Rs.2500/- for the first mark and Rs.500/- for every additional mark
Application for directions for the advertisement of an assignment of trade marks otherwise that
in connection with the goodwill of the business.
[Section 42. Rule 74(1)
(To be filed in duplicate)
Application is hereby made by {1} .........................for the Registrar's di rection with respect to the
advertisement of an assignment of the following trade marks otherwise than in connection with the
goodwill of the business in which they 2 (had been)(were) used namely:-
*(I)Registered Trade Marks:
Registration Number Class
Goods or services in respect of which the
mark has been or is used and is assigned
................................. ........................... ……………………
................. ............………. ...........................all of which are or were registered in the name of 3...............who is the assignor.
*(II) Unregistered Trade Marks 4 all being marks which 2 (had been) (were) used in his business in
respect of the goods or services stated below, by 3...............of .................who is the assignor:
*Representation of mark .........................
Goods or services in respect of which the
mark has been or is used and is assigned ...........................
The date of assignment was the .............day of..............20..............
The instrument effecting the assignment is sent herewith, together with a copy thereof.
It is suggested that advertisement shall be directed as follows, namely, in ...............
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
.........................
........................
Dated this ...............day of ............20...............
5...........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTER
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks,IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 95
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at {6} ..............
Additional marks and registration numbers which cannot be accommodated may be give in a signed
schedule on the back of the Form
1. Insert the name, nationality and address of the assignee (applicant).
2. Strike out words not applicable.3. Insert the name, nationality and address of the proprietor (assignor).
4. Only those unregistered trade marks passing by the same assignment and used in the
same business and for the same goods or services as those for which one or more of the
registered marks are registered may be stated here.
5. Signature of applicant or of his agent
6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry.
See Rule 4IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 96
FORM TM-21
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs. 500/- Rs.1,000/- or Rs.1,500/- for extension of 1, 2 or 3 months respectively
Application for extension of time in which to apply for the Registrar's direction for the
advertisement of an assignment of trade mark s otherwise than in connection with the goodwill
of the business.
[Section 42; Rules 74(3)]
Application is hereby made by {1} .....................for extension of time of {2} .............month(s)in
which to apply for the Registrar's directions for th e advertisement of an assignment of the following
trade marks otherwise than in connection with the g oodwill of the business in which they 3 (had been)
(were) used, namely:-
(I) Registered Trade Marks:
*Registration Number Class
-------------------------- Goods or services in respect of which the
mark has been or is used and is assigned.
all of which are or were registered in the name of 4..........of .........who is the assignor
(II) Unregistered trade marks all being marks which 3 (had been)(were) used in his business in
respect of the goods or services stated below, by 4 .........of.............who is the assignor.
*Representation of Mark
Goods or services in respect of which the
mark has been or is used and is assigned
............................
The date of assignment was the ...............day of ...............20...........
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India.
......................
.....................
Dated this ....................day of ...............20...........
{5}..........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at {6}.................IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 97
*Additional marks and registration numbers which cannot be accommodated here may be given in a
signed schedule on back of the form.
1. Inert the name and address of the assignee(applicant)
2. Insert "one", "two", or "three"
3. Strike out words not applicable4. Insert the name and address of the proprietor (assignor)
5. Signature of applicant or of his agent
6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Mark Registry.
See Rule 4IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 98
FORM TM-22
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee. Rs.2,500/-
Application to register a textile trade mark consisting exclusively of numerals or letters
[Section 18(1), Rules, 25(5), 144 and 145]
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by five additional representations of the trade mark)
One representation to be fixed within this
space and five others to be sent separately.
Representation of a larger size may be
folded but must then be mounted upon linen
or other suitable material and affixed hereto.
See rule 28.
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
trade mark in class{2} .................................. in respect of {3} ........................in the name(s) of {4}
................... whose address is {5} ....................... who claim (s) to be the proprietor(s) thereof [and by
whom the said mark is proposed to be used 6 or (and by whom and his (their) predecessor(s) in
title[7] the said mark has been continuously used since .......20...] in respect of the said goods or
services [8].
9.................................
9...............................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........20............
10............................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at 11........................
1. Strike out whichever is not necessary. The duly signed additional representation by the
applicant or his agent should bear the mark, the name, address and description of the
applicant, the description of goods, the class, the period of use of the trade mark, the tradedescription and address of service in India.
2. The Registrars' direction may be obtained if the class of goods for services is not known.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 99
3. Specify the goods for class in respect of which application is made. A separate sheet detailing
the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods should not ordinarily exceed
500 alphabetic characters. An excess space fee of Rs.10 per character is payable beyond the
prescribed limit. The applicant shall state the exact number of excess characters where the
specification of goods exceeds 500 character at the space provided immediately before the
signature.
4. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the
applicant. In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names
and descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as
the case may be, should be stated. See rule 16.
5. The applicant must state the address of his principal place of business in India. if any. See
rules 3 and 17(If the applicant carries on business in the goods for which registration is sought
at only one place in India such fact should be stated and the address of the place given. If the
applicant carries on business in the goods concerned at more places than one in India the
applicant should state such fact and give the address of that place of business which he
considers to be his principal place of business. If, however, the applicant does not carry onbusiness in the goods concerned but carried on business in other goods at any one place in
India this fact should be stated and the address of that place given; and where the applicant
carries on such business at more places than one in India such fact should be stated and the
address of the place which he considers to be his principal place of business given. Where
the applicant is not carrying on any business in India the fact should be stated and the placeof his residence in India, if any, should be stated and the address of that place given. In
addition to the principal place of business or of residence in India, as the case may be, an
applicant may if he so desires given an address in India to which communications relating to
the application may be sent). (see rule 19. Where the applicant has neither a place of business
nor of residence in India the fact should be stated and an address for service in India givenalong with his address in his home country abroad.
6. Strike out if the mark is already in use7. Strike out the words if not applicable. If user by predecessor(s) in title is claimed the
name(s) of such person(s) together with the date of commencement of use by the applicant
himself should be stated at 9.
8. If there has been no use of the trade mark in respect of all the goods specified at 3, the items
of goods in respect of which the mark has actually been used should be stated.
9. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank.
If colour combination is claimed, clearly indicate it and state the colours. If the application is
in respect of a three dimensional mark, a statement to that effect [see Rule 25, and 29].
10. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Sec. 123)
to be also accompanied by the name in block letter.
11. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry - See rule 4.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 100
FORM TM-23
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
For Fee, See entries No.27 and 28 of the First Schedule
Joint request by registered proprietor and transferee to register the transferee as subsequent
proprietor of trade marks upon the same devolution of title.[ Section 45, Rule 68.]
We '................................................................and2................................... hereby request, und er
rule 68, that the name of 3.................................carrying on business as4
.............at5...............may be entered in the Register of Trade Marks as proprietor of the trademark(s) No.6.....................in Class....................as from the 7......................by virtue of 8
............ of which the original and an attested copy are enclosed herewith.
The assignment of the trade mark was 9 (not) made otherwise than in connection with the goodwill of
the business in which the mark9 (had been) (was) used 9(and there is sent herewith copy of the
Registrar's direction to advertise the assignment, a copy of each of the advertisements, complying
therewith, and a statement of the dates of issue of any publications containing them) .
We declare that the facts and matters stated herein are true to the best of our knowledge, information
and belief.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .............day of.............20.........
[10]SIGNATURE
[11]SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORIES
IN LETTERS
ToThe Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [12]............
1. Full name, address, and nationality of registered proprietor, or other assignor or transmitter.
2. Full name, address and nationality of transferee.
3. Name of transferee.
4. Description of transferee(calling or profession).
5. Address of the principal place of business in India, if any, of the transferee. If there is no
place of business in India state the addres s of the place of residence in India.
If there is not even a place of residence in India state the address in the home country abroad
and an address for service in India.
6. Additional numbers may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the Form.
7. Date of acquisition of proprietorship.
8. Full particulars of the instrument of assignment or transmission, if any, or statement of case.
9. Strike out any words not applicable.
10. Signature of assignor or transmitter or of his agent.
11. Signature of transferee or of his agent.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 101
12. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry - See Rule 4.
FORM TM-24
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
For fee, see entries Nos.27 and 28 of the First schedule
Request to register a subsequent proprietor of a trade mark or trade marks upon the same
devolution of title
[Section 45, Rule 68].
I, (or We{1} .................................................................................................................. ..
............................................................................................................................... .......
............................................................................................................................... ......
hereby request that my/ our name may be entered in the Register of Trade Marks as proprietor of
trade (s) No.(s){2}........... in class ....................... as from the {3}..................
I am / we are) entitled to the trade mark (s) by virtue of {4}
................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......
of which the original and an attested copy are enclosed herewith.
The assignment of the trade mark was 5 (not) made otherwise than in connection with the goodwill of
the business in which the mark (had been)(was) us ed 5(and there is sent herewith a copy of the
Registrar's direction to advertise the assignment, a copy of each of the advertisements complyingtherewith, and a statement of the dates of the issue of any publications containing them).
I (or We) declare that the facts and matters stated herein are true to the best of my (or our)knowledge,
information and belief.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .............day of................20.........
{6}...........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks,
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at {7}...............
1. Insert full name, address of the principal place of business in India, if any, nationality and
description of the applicant. If there is no place of business in India, state the address of theplace of residence in India if any. If there is not even a place of residence in India state the
address in the home country abroad and an address for service in India.
2. Additional numbers may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the Form.
3. State the date of acquisition of proprietorship.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 102
4. Insert full particulars of the instrument of assi gnment or transmission, if any, or statement of
case.
5. Strike out any words not applicable. (See rule 75)
6. Signature of transferee or of his agent.
7. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry.
(See Rule 4)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 103
FORM TM-25
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs.500, 1,000 or 1,500 for 2, 4, or 6 months' extension respectively.Application under Section 46(4) for extension of time for the registration of the name of a
company as subsequent proprietor of a trade mark in the register.
[ Rule 79.]
Application is hereby made by {1} .......................................................................................
.............................................. for an extension of time by {2}....................months of the period of sixmonths allowed by section 46(4) and rule 79 for regi stering the name of {3} ........by virtue of a single
assignment as proprietor of the following Trade Marks(s) registered upon application(s) conforming
to sub-section (1) of section 46.
4 Registration Number Class
................................ ................................
................................ ................................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:
................................
................................
Dated this .............day of ...........20......
5................................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of The Trade Marks Registry at {6}...................
1. Insert the name and address of the applicant.
2. Here Insert "two" or "four" or "six".
3. Insert the name of the company to be registered as subsequent proprietor
4. Additional numbers may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the Form.
5. Signature .6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry –(See
Rule 4).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 104
FORM TM-26
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Rs.3000/-
Application for the rectification of the regist er or the removal of trade mark from the register.
[Section 47 or 57 ; Rule 92.]
(To be filed in duplicate/ triplicate along with the statement of case in duplicate/triplicate and
accompanied by as many copies of each of them as there are registered or permitted user under the
registration).
In the matter of Trade Mark No...................................................................................
registered in the name of ................................ in Class................................
I (or We) {1} ................................................................................................ hereby apply tha t the entry
in the register in respect of the abovementioned Trade Mark may be (removed) {2} (rectified) in the
following manner:-
The grounds of my (our) application are as follows:-The [3]............Office of the Trade Marks Registry has been entered in the register as the appropriate
office in relation to this trade mark.No action concerning the trade mark in question is pending in any Court
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ............20.........
{4}................................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
ToThe Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at {3}................................
1. State full name, address and nationality. An address for service in India should be stated if
the applicant has no place of business or of residence in India.
2. Strike out the word that is not applicable
3. State the name of the place of appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry
4. Signature (See rule 4)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 105
FORM TM-27
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs.500/-
Application for leave to intervene in proceedings relating to the rectification of the register or
the removal of trade mark from the register or the cancellation of a collective mark or
certification trade mark from the register. [Rule 94, 133, 139.]
In the matter of the Trade Mark No.......................................................................................... re gistered
in the name of ....................................................in class .........................
I ( we){1}....................................................................................................hereby apply for leave to intervene in the proceedings relating to the rectification or removal of the
entry in the register in respect of the above mentioned trade mark .
My (our) interest in the Trade Mark........................................
All communications relating to this proceeding may be sent to the following address in India:-
...........................
.........................
Dated this ..............day of ............20..........
{2}.....................
SIGNATURENAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks,
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at {3}...................
1. State full name, address and nationality
2. Signature
3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry
(See Rule 4)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 106
FORM TM-28
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fe: See entries Nos. 32 and 33 of the First schedule
Application for registration of registered user.
[Section 49 Rule 80]
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by the agr eement in writing between the registered proprietor
and the proposed registered user or a duly authenticated copy thereof, the other documents mentioned
in rule 80(1), an affidavit setting forth particulars a nd statements as required by rule 80(2) and by two
copies of each of the aforesaid documents).
Application is hereby made by {1}.....................who is (or are) the registered proprietor(s) of Trade
Mark(s){2}....................registered in class .............. in respect of {3}...............and by{4}.......... that
the said{5} ................may be registered as a registered user of the above mentioned registered trade
mark(s) in respect of {6} .................subject to the following conditions and restrictions{7}:-
{8} (The proposed permitted use is to end on the ..............day of ..........20..........)
(The proposed permitted use is without limit of period).All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ...............day of ..........20.............
{9}.................. .
{10}..................NAME OF SIGNATORIES
IN LETTERS
ToThe Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at {11}....................
1. Insert full name, address and nationality of the registered proprietor.
2. Additional numbers may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the Form.
3. Here Insert the specification as in the register.
4. Here insert the full name, description(calling or occupation, nationality and address of the
principal place of business in India, if any, of the proposed registered user. If there is no
place of business in India, state the address of the place of residence in India, if any. If there
is not even a place of residence in India, state the address in the home country abroad and an
address for service in India.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 107
5. Insert name of proposed registered user.
6. Insert designation of goods or services (which must be comprised within the specification).
7. Write none if there are no conditions or restrictions.
8. Strike out the words that are not applicable.
9. Signature of registered proprietor or of his agent.
10. Signature of proposed registered user or of his agent.11. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry (See rule 4)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 108
FORM TM-29
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: See entry No. 34 of the First Schedule.
Application by the registered proprietor of a trade mark for variation of the registration of a
registered user thereof with regard to the goods or services or the condition or restriction.
[Section 50 (1)(a) Rule 87.]
(to be filed in triplicate accompanied by a statement in triplicate of the grounds for the
application and the written consent in triplicate (if given) of the registered user)
Application is hereby made by {1}........................th e proprietor of trade mark(s) No.{2} .................
registered in class................in respect of {3} ..................that the registration of [4] .....................as a
registered user of the abovementioned trade mark(s) in respect of [5 ]................may be varied in the
following manner6.:-....................................................................
...................................................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ...........day of .............20..........
7...........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
ToThe Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [8]...................
1. Insert the full name and address of the registered proprietor.
2. Additional numbers may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the Form.
3. Insert the specification as in the register.
4. Insert the full name and address of the registered user.
5. Insert the goods or services in respect of which the registered user is registered.
6. State the manner of which the entry should be varied..7. Signature of registered proprietor or of his agent.
8. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry .
(See rule 4.)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 109
FORM TM-30
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: See entry No. 35 of the First schedule
Application by the registered proprietor of a trade mark or by any of the registered users of the
trade mark for the cancellation of entry of a registered user thereof.
[Section 50(1)(b) Rule 88(1)]
3. (To be filed in triplicate accompanied by a statement in triplicate of the grounds for the
application).
Application is hereby made by' ........................................ bein g (the registered proprietor)[2] a
(registered user) of trade mark(s) No.[3].........................registered in class ................in respect of
[4]....................for the cancellation of the entry under the abovementioned registration(s) of[5]
...................as a registered user of the trade mark(s) in respect of[6]..............
The grounds for this application are set forth in the accompanying statementAll communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ...............day of ...........20.........
7......................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [8]...............
1. Insert the full name and address of the applicant or of the applicants.
2. Strike out the words that are not applicable.
3. Additional numbers may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the Form.4. Insert the specification as in the register.
5. Insert the full name and address of the registered user whose entry is sought to be cancelled.
6. Insert goods or services in respect of which registered user mentioned at 5 is registered.
7. Signature.
8. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry.
(See rule 4).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 110
FORM TM-31
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: See Entry No.36 of the First Schedule
Application for cancellation of entry of a registered user of a trade mark.
[Section 50(1)(c) or (d) Rule 88(1)]
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by a statement in triplicate of the grounds for the
application)
In the matter of Trade Mark(s ) No.(s)' .......................registered in class .............in the name of [2
].................................................................
Application is hereby made by [3] ................ for the cancellation of the entry under the
abovementioned registration (s) of [4].........................as the registered user thereof in respect of
[5]........................
The grounds of this application, particulars of which are given in detail in the accompanyingstatement of case are [6]........................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:
..........................
Dated this .........day of .......20........
7..........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORYIN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Mark
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [8].................
1. Additional numbers may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the Form.
2. Insert the name of the registered proprietor.
3. Insert the name, address and nationality of the applicant for cancellation.
4. Insert the name, address and description of the registered user as entered in the register.
5. State the goods or services in respect of which registered user is registered.
6. Insert one or more of the sub-clauses of clause (c) of section 50(1).7. Signature.
8. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry.
(See rule 4.)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 111
FORM TM-32
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs.500/-
Notice of intention to intervene in proceedings fo r the variation or cancellation of an entry of a
registered user of a trade mark.
[Rule 90(2)]
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by a statem ent in triplicate of the grounds of intervention)
In the Matter of Trade Mark No....................registered in class ...................in the name of
[1]..........................
and
In the matter of registration of [2]..............................thereunder as a registered user of the mark.
I (or We)[3] ...............................................hereby give notice of my (our) intention to intervene in the
proceedings in the above matter.
All communications relating to these proceedings ma y be sent to the following address in India:-
...................................................
Dated this .................day of .......20......
4..........................SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade MarksThe Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [5].............
1. Insert the name of the registered proprietor.
2. Insert the name and address of the registered user.
3. Insert the full name, address and nationality of person giving notice.4. Signature of the person giving notice or of his agent.
5. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry – (See
Rule 4.)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 112
FORM TM-33
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: See entry No. 38 of the First Schedule and footnote below.
Request to enter change of name or description of registered proprietor (or registered user) of
trade mark upon the register.
[Section 58 Rules 91 and 97]
I (or we) ' ...................................................................hereby reques t that my / our name (s) and
description (s) may be entered in the Register of Trade Marks as [2] proprietor (s)/ registered user (s)
of the trade mark(s) No.[3]................................................... registered in class ............................ ......
I am / we are entitled to 3 the said Trade Mark.
...................use the said Trade Mark as registered user(s). There has been no change in the actual
proprietorships [2]/identity of registered us er(s) of the said Trade Marks, but [4] ..................
The entry at present standing in the register gives my (or our) name(s) and description (3) as follows:-
..........................
..........................
[5] A copy of this request has been served upon the registered user(s)/proprietor(s)All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ..............day of ......20......
6..........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
To
The Register of Trade MarksThe Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [7]..................
1. Insert present name and address of registered proprietor or registered user.
2. Strike out the words that are not applicable.
3. Additional numbers may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the Form.4. State the circumstances under which the change of name took place.
5. Strike out if not applicable.
6. Signature of applicant or of his agent.
7. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry.
(See rule 4).
Footnote: Fee for the first mark Rs.1000, for every additional associated mark Rs. 500. No fee,
however, payable where the application for alteration or change of name is made as a
result of an order of a public authority or in consequence of a statutory requirement as
per law in India.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 113
FORM TM-34
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: See entry No.39 of the First Schedule and footnote below.
Request for alteration of the address of the principal place of business or of residence in India
or of the address in the home country abroad in the Register of Trade Marks.
[Section 58, Rules 91, 96, 97]
In the matter of Trade Mark(s) N o.(s)'..................................................registered in class
.....................................................................................
I (or we) ........................................of ....................................................
being the registered proprietor 2 of the Trade Mark(s) numbered as above,
User
request that the 2address of my (our) principal place of business 2(or residence) in India or address in
my(our) home country abroad in the Register of Trade Marks be altered to .............
3The change of address was ordered by4 .......................on the .............................
day of ................20...............An officially certified copy of the order is enclosed herewith.
A copy of this request has been served on the registered proprietor 2
User
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ........day of........20.......
5..........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of Trade Marks Registry at [6]....................
1. Additional numbers may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the Form.
2. Strike out word(s) not applicable.
3. Strike out if not applicable.4. Insert the name of the public authority ordering the change and the date thereof.
5. Signature of registered proprietor or of his agent.
user
6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry. (See rule 4)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 114
Note: Fee for the first mark Rs.500; for every additional associated mark Rs.200. No fee is,
however, payable in case the alteration is made as a result of an order of a public authority in
India.
FORM TM-35
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee Rs.200/-
Application by registered proprietor of trade ma rk for the cancellation of entry thereof in the
register.
[Section 58 (1)(c ) Rule 97]
In the matter of Trade Mark No.......................Class.....................
Name of registered proprietor ........................
Address as entered in the register..................
Application is hereby made by the aforesaid registered proprietor that the entry in the Register of
Trade Marks of Trade Mark No...........in class ........may be cancelled.
[1]A copy of the application has been served on the Registered User(s)
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of .........20.........
3..........................SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [3]...............
1. Strike out if not applicable.
2. Signature of the registered proprietor or of his agent.
3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry.
{See rule 4}IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 115
FORM TM-36
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee :Rs.200/-
Application by registered proprietor of trade mark to strike out goods or services from those for
which the trade mark is registered.
[Section 58(1)(d). Rule 97]
In the matter of Trade Mark No.............................................................
Name and address of the registered proprietor ...........................................
Application is hereby made by the aforesaid registered proprietor for the striking out of '
................from the goods or services for which the Trade Mark No .................is registered in class
......[2] A copy of this application has been served on the Registered User(s).
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ..........day of..........20......
3..........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at [4] .............
1. Designate the goods or services to be struck out.
2. Strike out if not applicable.
3. Signature of the registered proprietor or of his agent.
4. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry.
[See Rule 4]IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 116
FORM TM-37
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: See entry No.7 of the First Schedule
Application for the registration of series trad e mark for goods or services (other than a
collective mark or a certificate trade mark) in a class or for different classes from a convention
country
[Section 154(2), 15(3), Rule 25(11), 26 and 31]
(To be filled in triplicate accompanied by five additional representation of the trade mark)
One representation to be fixed
within this space and five others to
be sent separately. Representationof the larger size may be folded but
must then be mounted upon linen or
other suitable material affixed
thereto. See rule 28.
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
trade mark in class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................in the name(s) of
3................... whose address is 4 ....................... who claim (s) to be the proprietor(s) thereof [and by
whom the said mark is proposed to be used 5 or (and by whom and his (their) predecessor(s) in title 6
the said mark has been continuously used since .......... in respect of the said goods or services.[7]
The application in a convention country to register the trade mark has been made in
on
A certified copy certified by an official of the convention country in which the application
was filed is enclosed (along with its translation in English).
I/We request that the trade mark may be registered with priority date based on the above
mentioned application in a convention country under the provisions of Section 154 of the Act.
[8].................................. [9]...............................All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........20............
10..SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS.
ToIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 117
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at [11]........................
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class of the goods or services is not known.
2. Specify the goods or services for the class in respect of which application is made. A
separate sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods or
services should not ordinarily exceed 500 alphabetic characters. An excess space fee of Rs.10
per alphabetic character is payable beyond this limit. [See rule 25(16)]. The applicant must
state the exact number of excess alphabetic characters where the specification of goods or
services exceeds 500 character at the space provided immediately before the signature.
3. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of
the applicant). In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the
names and descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if
any, as the case may be, should be stated. (See rule 16.)
4. The applicant must state the address of his principal place of business in India. if any. (See
rules 3 and 17) If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services for which
registration is sought at only one place in India such fact should be stated and the address of
the place given. If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services concerned at
more places than one in India the applicant should state such fact and give the address of that
place of business which he considers to be his principal place of business. If, however, theapplicant does not carry on business in the goods or services concerned but carries on
business in other goods or services at any one place in India this fact should be stated and the
address of that place given; and where the applicant carries on such business at more places
than one in India such fact should be stated and the address of the place which he considers
to be his principal place of business given. Where the applicant is not carrying on anybusiness in India the fact should be stated and the place of his residence in India, if any,
should be stated and the address of that place given. In addition to the principal place of
business or of residence in India, as the case may be, an applicant may if he so desires given
an address in India to which communications relating to the application may be sent). (see
rule 19). Where the applicant has neither a place of business nor of residence in India the factshould be stated and an address for service in India given along with his address in his home
country abroad.
5. Strike out if the mark is already in use. 6. Strike out the words if not applicable. If user by predecessor(s) in title is claimed the
name(s) of such person(s) together with the date of commencement of use by the applicanthimself should be stated at 8.
7. If there has been no use of the trade mark in respect of all the goods or services specified at 2,
the items of goods or services in respect of which the mark has actually been used should be
stated.
8. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank. 9. If colour combination is claimed, clearly indicate it and state the colours. If the application is
in respect of a three dimensional mark, a statement to that effect [See rule 25 and 29].
10. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- (See Section 145).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 118
11. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry –
(See Rule 4.)
FORM TM-38
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: See entry No.43 of the First Schedule and Footnote below.
Application by registered proprietor under section 59(1) for an addition to or alteration of a
registered trade mark. [Rule 98].
In the matter of Trade Mark No...........................................................registered in class ..................
Application is hereby made by'................. being the regi stered proprietor(s) of the registered trade
mark numbered as above for leave to add to or alte r the said trade mark in the following particulars,
that is to say[2]..............
Five copies of the mark as it will appear when so altered are filed herewith.
[3]A copy of this application and a copy of the mark as it will appear when so altered have beenserved on the registered user (s).
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ..........day of ..........20...........
[ 4]..........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [5].............
1. Insert name and address of the registered proprietor.
2. Fill in full particulars.
3. Strike out if not applicable.
4. Signature of the registered proprietor or of his agent.
5. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry. (See rule 4.)
Footnote: Fee Rs.2500. In the case of associated trade marks fee for the first registration
Rs.2500; for each additional registration Rs.1000. No fee is however, payable in case
the addition to or alteration of the mark is made as a result of an order of a public
authority or in consequence of a statutory requirement.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 119
FORM TM-39
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No.
Proprietor's Code No.
Rs.1500/-
Notice of opposition to application for addition to or alteration of a registered trade mark.
[Section 59(2) Rule 99(2)]
(To be filed in triplicate)
In the matter of Trade Mark No.............................................registered in the name of ............. in
class .............................
I (or we)' ......................................................................................hereby give notice of my (or our) intention to oppose the addition to or alteration of the Trade Mark
numbered and registered as above, so that it shall be in the form shown in the application advertised in
the Trade Marks Journal of the .............day of..........20......... No..................Page........
The grounds of opposition are as follows:-
The ...............[2]office of the Trade Marks Registry has been entered in the Register as the
appropriate office in relation to the trade mark.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
.................................
..............................
Dated this ............day of .................20...............
3...............................
SIGNATURENAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [2] ...................
1. State full name and address. An address for service in India should be stated if the person
giving notice has no place of business or of residence in India.
2. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry. (See rule 4)
3. Signature of the person giving notice or of his agent.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 120
FORM TM-40
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee. Rs.1000/-
Application by the proprietor of a registered trad e mark for the conversion of the specification.
[Rule 101(1)
In the matter of Trade Mark No.....................................registered in the name of ............in
class..................................of the Fourth Schedule.
Application is hereby made by' ...............................the re gistered proprietor of the above numbered
trade mark of the conversion of the specification of the above mentioned registration and[2] the
specification(s) of the Registered User(s) thereunder in consequence of the amendment of the Fourth
Schedule to the Trade Marks Rules, 2002.
The specification(s) entered in the register in accordance with the said schedule prior to amendment is
(are):-
..........................................................................................................
It is requested that the Registrar should propose the following specification in accordance with the
amended schedule:-
Class ................
Class ..............
3 A copy of this application has been served on the registered user(s)
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .............day of ..........20...........
4..........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORYIN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [5].........
1. Insert the name and address of the registered proprietor.
2. Cancel the words in italics, if there are no registered users.3. Strike out if not applicable.
4. Signature of the registered proprietor or of his agent.
5. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry – (See
rule 4).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 121
FORM TM-41
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: See entry No.46 of the First Schedule.
Notice of opposition to proposal for conversion of specification
[Section 60(2)Rule 101(4)]
[To be filed in triplicate accompanied by a statement in triplicate showing how the proposed
conversion would be contrary to section 60(1)]
In the matter of Trade Mark(s)'..................................................registered in the name of .................... in
class .....................of the Fourth Schedule.
I(or we)[2]...........................hereby give notice of my (or our) intention to oppose the proposal for the
conversion of the specification(s) of the trade mark(s) advertised in the Trade Marks Journal of the
............day of .......20........No..........page..........
The grounds of opposition are as follows:
The [3] ...........................office of the Trade Marks Registry has been entered in the register as the
appropriate office in relation to the trade mark(s).
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
............................................
Dated this ............day of ........20..........
[4]..........................
To
The Registrar of Trade marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at[3]..............
1. The numbers of more than one trade mark (being associated trade marks) dealt with by the
same proposal may be given provided the specification are the same and the marks are
associated.
2. State full name and address. An address for service in India should be stated if the person
giving notice has no place of business or of residence in India
3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry – (See
rule 4).
4. Signature of the person giving notice or of his agentIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 122
FORM TM-42
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: See entry No.47 of the First Schedule.
Request to alter or amend the deposited regulations governing the use of a collective mark or
to alter the deposited regulation of a certification trade mark.
[Section 66 or 74(2); Rule 132(a), 140]
(To be accompanied by two duplicates of the application and four copies of the regulations having
the proposed amendment or alterations shown in red therein)
Application is made by' ...............................................................who is ( or are) the proprietor(s) of th e
Collective mark/Certification Trade Mark(s) Nos.[2 .........[3] registered in class ........in respect of [4]....... that the deposited regulations governing the use of the said marks may be amended or altered in
the manner shown in red in the accompanying copies of the regulations as proposed to be amended or
altered.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ...........day of .......20.........
[5]...............................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [6]...................
1. State name and address of the proprietor(s) as registered.
2. If the same regulations apply to more than one registration of Collective Marks or
Certification Trade Marks entered in the Register as associated marks, the numbers of all the
registrations should be stated.
3. Additional numbers and specifications may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the
Form.
4. State the specifications of the respective registrations.
5. Signature.
6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry –(See
Rule 4).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 123
FORM TM-43
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Rs.1000/-
Application for the removal from the of a collecti ve mark or to cancel or vary the registration of
a certification trade mark.
[Section 68,77 and Rules 133,139.]
(To be filed in triplicate alongwith a statement of case in triplicate).
In the matter of Collective Mark/Certification Trade Mark
NO.................................................registered in the name of ………….. in class ............. (or We)'
........................................................
...............................................................................................................................
being an aggrieved person(s) hereby apply for an order of the Registrar that .
[2] The entry in the Register in respect of the abovementioned Collective Mark/Certification
Trade Mark may be [3] expunged/varied in the following manner:
The grounds of my(our) application are as follows:[4]-.......................................................................................
The facts and matters set forth in the enclosed statement of case are true to the best of my
(our) knowledge, information and belief.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-............................................................................................................................... .....................................
.......................................................................
Dated this ..............day of ...........20............
5.........................................................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [6]
1. State full name, address and nationality. An address for service in India should be stated if the
applicant has no place of business or of residence in India. (See rule 18).
2. Strike out that is not applicable.3. Strike out word not applicable.
4. Specify any of the grounds set forth in section 68 or clauses(a) to (d) of section 77, as the case
may be.
5. Signature.
6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry – (See
Rule 4)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 124
FORM TM-44
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs.500/-
Application for extension of time for giving notice of opposition
[Section 21(1) Rule 47(6)]
In the matter of application
No............................................................................................................................. ....................
I (or We)' .................................................................................................................... ......................
hereby apply for extension of time of [2] ...............for giving notice of opposition to the registration of
the trade mark advertised under the above number for class .........in the Trade Marks Journal dated
the .............day of .........20......
The reasons for making the application are as follows:-All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India [3]-
................................................................
.............................................................
Dated this .............. day of .............20.........
[4].........................................SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORYIN LETTER
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at[5]......
1. State full name and address.
2. Insert the period of extension required which shall not exceed one month beyond three
months from the date of advertisement or re-advertisement, as the case may be, of the
application in the Journal.
3. To be stated only where the address given is not an address in India
4. Signature.4. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- (See
rule 4).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 125
FORM TM-45
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs. 2500/-
Application to register a textile trade mark consisting exclusively of letters or numerals from a
convention country
[Section 18(1) and 154(2); Rule 25(6), 26, 144 and 145]
(To be filled in triplicate accompanied by five additional representation of the trade mark)
One representation to be fixed within this
space and five others to be sent separately.
Representation of the larger size may befolded but must then be mounted upon linen
or other suitable material affixed thereto.
(See rule 28.)
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
trade mark in class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................in the name(s) of
3................... whose address is 4 ....................... who claim (s) to be the proprietor(s) thereof [and by
whom the said mark is proposed to be used 5 or (and by whom and his (their) predecessor(s) in title 6
the said mark has been continuously used since ..........] in respect of the said goods or services.7
The application in a convention country to register the trade mark has been made in
on
A certified copy certified by an official of the convention country in which the application
was filed is enclosed (along with its translation in English).
I/We request that the trade mark may be registered with priority date based on the above
mentioned application in a convention country under the provisions of Section 154 of the Act.
[8]..................................9................................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........20............
10..SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS.
To
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at. [11].......................
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class of the goods or services is not known.2. Specify the goods for the class in respect of which application is made. A separate sheet
detailing the goods may be used. The specification of goods should not ordinarily exceed 500
characters. An excess space fee of Rs.10 per character is payable beyond this limit. [See rule
25(16)]. The applicant must state the exact number of excess characters where theIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 126
specification of goods or services exceeds 500 character at the space provided immediately
before the signature.
3. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the
applicant). In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names
and descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, asthe case may be, should be stated. (See rule 16).
4. The applicant must state the address of his principal place of business in India. if any. (See
rules 3 and 17).If the applicant carries on business in the goods for which registration is
sought at only one place in India such fact shou ld be stated and the address of the place given.
If the applicant carries on business in the goods concerned at more places than one in India,
the applicant should state such fact and give the address of that place of business which heconsiders to be his principal place of business. If, however, the applicant does not carry on
business in the goods or services concerned but carries on business in other goods or services
at any one place in India, this fact should be stated and the address of that place given; and
where the applicant carries on such business at more places than one in India such fact should
be stated and the address of the place which he considers to be his principal place ofbusiness given. Where the applicant is not carrying on any business in India the fact should
be stated and the place of his residence in India, if any, should be stated and the address of
that place given. In addition to the principal place of business or of residence in India, as the
case may be, an applicant may if he so desires given an address in India to which
communications relating to the application may be sent). (see rule 19). Where the applicanthas neither a place of business nor of residence in India the fact should be stated and an
address for service in India given along with his address in his home country abroad.
5. Strike out if the mark is already in use
6. Strike out the words if not applicable. If user by predecessor(s) in title is claimed the
name(s) of such person(s) together with the date of commencement of use by the applicant
himself should be stated at 8.
7. If there has been no use of the trade mark in respect of all the goods specified at 2, the items
of goods in respect of which the mark has actually been used should be stated.
8. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank.9. If colour combination is claimed, clearly indicate it and state the colours. If the applicatin is
in respect of a three dimensional,a statement to that effect [See rule 25 and 29].
10. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Section 145).
11. State the name and place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry – (See rule 4).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 127
FORM TM-46
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee.: See entries Nos.51, 52 and 53 of the First Schedule
Request for certificate of the Registrar
[Section 137 or 148(2). Rule 119 and 120].
In the matter ' of Trade Mark No. .............................................. registered in ............ Class /
classes......................................................... I (or we)2 ................................................her eby request the
Registrar to furnish me (us) with his certificate to the effect that4 .............................
a certified copy
......................................................... .........................................................
......................................................... ......................................................... [3]a certi ficate of the
registration of Trade Marks for use in obtaining registration in[5] ......................................
................... The certificate/certified copy be sent to the following address in India
[6].........................................................
Dated this .............day of ......20..........
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
SIGNATURE[7]
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [8]................
1. These words may be varied to suit other cases.
2. Insert name, address and nationality of the person making the request.
3. Strike out words that are not applicable.4. Set out the particulars which the Registrar is required to certify or state particulars of the
document of which a certified copy is required.
5. Insert the name of country or state.
6. To be stated only where the address given at is not an address in India
7. Signature8. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry – (See
rule 4.)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 128
FORM TM-47
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code:
Proprietor's code:
Fee: Rs.200/-
Request for entry in the register and advertisement of a note of certificate of validity by the
Appellate Board
[Section 141 rule 124]
In the matter of Trade Mark No.....................................registered in class ............... in the name of
[1].................................... .................................... .................................... hereby reques t the Registrar
to add to the entry relating to the above numbered Tr ade Mark in the register, and to advertise in the
Trade Marks Journal, a note that in [2] ............................
....................................
the Appellate Board certified that the validity of the said registration came into question and was
decided in favour of the proprietor of the Trade Mark in the terms of accompanying officiallycertified copy of the certificate of validity.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .............day of..........20........
[3]....................................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORYIN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at[4] ....................................
1. State the name and address of the registered proprietor.
2. State the nature of the proceedings with the names of the parties to them, in which the
certificate was given.
3. Signature.
4. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry – (See
Rule 4).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 129
FORM TM-48
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Form of Authorisation of Agent
(Section 145 and rule 21)
I(or we)' .................................... .................................... hereby authorise[2] ..................... ...............
.................................... .................................... of .................................... ............ ........................
.................................... to act as my (or our) agent for [3] ....................................and request that all
notices, requisitions and communications relating thereto may be sent to such agent at the above
address,.
I (or we) hereby revoke all previous authorisations, if any, in respect of the proceeding.All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-Dated this .............day of ...........20........
[4] ....................................SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [5]....................................
1. Insert full name, address and nationality. (See rule 16).
2. Insert full name and address of agent (legal practitioner, registered trade marks agent or a
person in the sole and regular employment of the person appointing the agent).
3. State the particular matter or proceeding for which the agent is appointed giving the reference
number if known.
4. To be signed by the person appointing the agent.5. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- (See
rule 4).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 130
FORM TM-49
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Draft of regulations
[Section 63, 71 Rule 128(1),135(1)]
(To be accompanied by three copies of the draft regulations)
Regulations for governing the use of Collective Mark No………./Certification Trade Mark1 No.
.................................... Class .................................... in respect of 2
(for official use)
Advertised in the Trade Marks Journal No. .................................... at page ....................... on the
.......................day of ............. 20.....
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
(Date of application and registration ......20...)
1. Strike out whichever is not applicable.
2. Specify the goods or services.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 131
FORM TM-50
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: See entries No.40 and 41 of the First Schedule.
Form of request by a registered proprietor or a registered user of a trade mark who has no
principal place of business in India to enter, alt er or substitute an address for service in India as
part of his registration (rules 91, 96, 97)
Request is made by ' .................................... who is the re gistered [2] proprietor (user) or Trade
Mark(s) Nos. .................................... [3] registered in class .................................... for the[4] add ition,
alteration or substitution of an address for service in India in or to the entry thereof so that the
address for service in India may read [5] ....................................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ....................................day of ....................................20.......
[6] ....................................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [7] ....................................
1. Here insert the full name and address of the person making the request.
2. Strike out one of the words "Proprietor" or "user" as the case may be.
3. Additional numbers (where the marks are entered in the register as associated trade marks)
may be given in a signed schedule on the back of the Form.
4. Cancel the words that are not applicable.
5. State here the precise entry or changed entry desired.
6. Signature.
7. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry – (See
rule 4)
Note: A registered proprietor or a registered user whose address for service in India has been
altered by a public authority so that the changed address designates the same premises as
before may make also the statement for which there is provision on the back of this Form in
order to avoid payment of fees
(To appear on the back of this form)
(For use only in case an address for service in India is changed by a public authority, without change
of premises).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 132
The change of address for service in India for the entry of which application is made on the other side
of this form was ordered by[8] .................................... on the .................................... day
of............20..........
An officially certified copy of the order is enclosed herewith.
Dated this ..........day of .......20......
[9]....................................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
8. Here insert the name of the public authority ordering the change and date thereof.
9. Signature.
Note: If the above statement be made and an officially certified copy of the order by the named
authority necessitating the alteration be supplied, the Registrar if satisfied as to the facts of the
case will not require any fee to be paid on Form TM-50 [see rule 96(3)].IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 133
FORM TM-51
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs.2500/- for each class
A single application for registration of a trade mark for different classes of goods or
services(other than a collective ma rk or a certification trade mark).
[Section 18(2), Rule 25(9), 103.]
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by five additional representations of the trade mark)
One representation to be fixed within this
space and five others to be sent separately.
Representation of a larger size may be
folded but must then be mounted upon linen
or other suitable material and affixed hereto.
[See rule 28].
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
trade mark in
(i) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(ii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(iii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
in the name(s) of 3................... whose address is 4 ....................... who claim (s) to be the
proprietor(s) thereof and by whom the said mark is proposed to be used 5 or (and by whom and his
(their) predecessor(s) in title 6 the said mark has been continuously used since .......... in respect of the
said goods or services.7
8..................................
9................................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-Dated this ................day of ...........20............
10..SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS.
To
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at [11]........................
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class or classes of the goods or services is not
known.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 134
2. Specify the goods or services for the class or classes in respect of which application is made.
A separate sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods or
services should not ordinarily exceed 500 alphabetic characters. An excess space fee of Rs.10
per alphabetic character is payable beyond this limit. See rule 25(16). The applicant must
state the exact number of excess characters where the specification of goods or servicesexceeds 500 character at the space provided immediately before the signature.
3. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the
applicant). In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names
and descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as
the case may be, should be stated. (See rule 16).
4. The applicant must state the address of his principal place of business in India. if any. (See
rules 3 and 17)If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services for which
registration is sought at only one place in India, such fact should be stated and the address of
the place given. If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services concerned at
more places than one in India the applicant should state such fact and give the address of thatplace of business which he considers to be his principal place of business. If, however, the
applicant does not carry on business in the goods or services concerned but carries on
business in other goods or services at any one place in India this fact should be stated and the
address of that place given; and where the applicant carries on such business at more places
than one in India such fact should be stated and the address of the place which he considersto be his principal place of business given. Where the applicant is not carrying on any
business in India the fact should be stated and the place of his residence in India, if any,
should be stated and the address of that place given. In addition to the principal place of
business or of residence in India, as the case may be, an applicant may if he so desires given
an address in India to which communications relating to the application may be sent. [seerule 19]. Where the applicant has neither a place of business nor of residence in India the fact
should be stated and an address for service in India given along with his address in his home
country abroad.
5. Strike out if the mark is already in use6. Strike out the words if not applicable. If user by predecessor(s) in title is claimed the
name(s) of such person(s) together with the date of commencement of use by the applicant
himself should be stated at 8.
7. If there has been no use of the trade mark in respect of all the goods or services specified at 2,
the items of goods or services in respect of which the mark has actually been used should bestated.
8. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank.9. If colour combination is claimed, clearly indica te it and state the colours. If the application is
in respect of a three dimensional trade mark a statement to that effect. [See rule 25 and 29]
10. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant)- (See Sec. 145).
11. State the name and place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- (See rule 4).IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 135
FORM TM-52
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs.2500/- for each class
A single application for registration of a trade mark for different classes of goods or services
(other than a collective trade mark or certific ation trade mark) from a convention country .
[Section 18(2) Rule 25(4), 103]
One representation to be fixed within this
space and five others to be sent separately.
Representation of a larger size may befolded but must then be mounted upon linen
or other suitable material and affixed hereto.
(See rule 28).
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
trade mark in
(i) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(ii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(iii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
in the name(s) of 3................... whose address is 4 ....................... who claim (s) to be the
proprietor(s) thereof [and by whom the said mark is proposed to be used 5 or (and by whom and his
(their) predecessor(s) in title 6 the said mark has been continuously used since ..........] in respect of the
said goods or services.7
The first application in a convention country to register the trade mark has been made
in on
A certified copy certified by an official of the convention country in which the application
was filed is enclosed (along-with, its translation in English).
I/we request that the trade mark may be registered with priority date based on the above
mentioned application in a convention country under the provisions of Section 154 of the Act.
8..................................9................................
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........20............
10..SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 136
To
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at [11]........................
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class of the goods or services is not known.2. Specify the goods or services for the class in respect of which application is made. A
separate sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods or
services should not ordinarily exceed 500 alphabetic characters. An excess space fee of Rs.10
per character is payable beyond this limit. [See rule 25(16)]. The applicant shall state the
exact number of excess characters where the specification of goods or services exceeds 500
alphabetic character at the space provided immediately before the signature.
3. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the
applicant). In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names
and descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as
the case may be, should be stated. (See rule 16).
4. The applicant must state the address of his principal place of business in India. if any. (See
rules 3 and 17)If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services for which
registration is sought at only one place in India, such fact should be stated and the address of
the place given. If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services concerned atmore places than one in India, the applicant should state such fact and give the address of that
place of business which he considers to be his principal place of business. If, however, the
applicant does not carry on business in the goods or services concerned but carries on
business in other goods or services at any one place in India this fact should be stated and the
address of that place given; and where the applicant carries on such business at more placesthan one in India such fact should be stated and the address of the place which he considers
to be his principal place of business given. Where the applicant is not carrying on any
business in India the fact should be stated and the place of his residence in India, if any,
should be stated and the address of that place given. In addition to the principal place of
business or of residence in India, as the case may be, an applicant may if he so desires give anaddress in India to which communications relating to the application may be sent. [see rule
19]. Where the applicant has neither a place of business nor of residence in India the fact
should be stated and an address for service in India given along with his address in his home
country abroad.
5. Strike out if the mark is already in use
6. Strike out the words if not applicable. If user by predecessor(s) in title is claimed the
name(s) of such person(s) together with the date of commencement of use by the applicant
himself should be stated at 8.
7. If there has been no use of the trade mark in respect of all the goods or services specified at 2,
the items of goods or services in respect of which the mark has actually been used should bestated.
8. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank.9. If colour combination is claimed, clearly in dicate it and state the colours. If the mark is a three
dimensional trade mark a statement to that effect . [See rule 25 and 29].IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 137
10. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent) or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Section 145).
11. State the name and place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry. [See rule 4].IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 138
FORM TM-53
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs.1,000 as Divisional fee plus appropriate class fee. See entry NO.68 of the first schedule.
Application for the division of an application or of a single application for different classes of
goods or services.
[Proviso to Section 22 Rule 104(1)]
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by three additional representation of the mark)
In the matter of Trade Mark No.…………………in Class……….. in the name of …………….filed
on ……………..
I (or we)1 ……………hereby request the Registrar to divide the application No…………. ……… in
class…………. in the following class or classes 2 and/or or to divide the specification of goods or
services in Class ………………... as indicated below:
……………………………….
……………………………….
A copy of the Registrar order on the request may be sent to the following address in India :-
Dated this ……………..day of ………….
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at 3
1. Insert the full name, address and nationality of the applicant.
2. Mention the goods or services and the class or classes in which it is to be registered in
ascending numerical order.
3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry – (See
rule 4).
4. Signature of the applicant or agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 139
FORM TM-54
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs.500/-
Request for search
[Rule 24(1)]
The Registrar is hereby requested under rule 24(1) to search in class' ................in respect
of[2]................. to ascertain whether any Trade Marks are on record which resemble the Trade Mark
sent herewith in triplicate [each representation being mounted on a sheet of strong paperapproximately 33 centimetres by 20 centimetres in size
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-Dated this ..............day of ...........20.......
3.................................
SIGNATURENAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
4................................
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks,The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [4].............
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class is not known.
2. Specify the goods or services (in the class stated) in respect of which the search is to be made.
3. Signature.3. State the name of the place of the office of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry
(see rule 4)
Footnote: No fee is payable in cases where the directions of the Central Government for
exemption from payment of fee have been obtained.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 140
FORM TM-55
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Fee : Rs.1000/-
Application for Registrar's preliminary advice as to distinctiveness by a person proposing to
apply for the registration of a trade mark.
Section 133(1) Rule 23.
I (or we)' ................................................................................hereby request the Registrar to advi ce me
/ us whether the accompanying trade mark[2] appears to him prima facie to be distinctive in respect
of my / our goods or services.
The goods or services in respect of which I / we propose to apply for registration of the said trademark are [3]......................................... in class [4]..........................
The Registrar's advice may be sent to the following address in India :-
Dated this ............day of ..........20..........
5.........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at [6].................
1. State the name and address in full.
2. To be sent in triplicate, each representation being mounted on a sheet of strong paper
approximately 33 centimetres by 20 centimetres in size.
3. Here specify the goods or services . Only goods or services included in one and the same
class should be specified. A separate application is required for each class.
4. State only if the address given at is not of a place in India.
5. Signature
6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry (see rule 4).
Footnote: If and when an application is made to register the trade mark, objection may arise if
identical or deceptively similar marks are found on the records of the Trade MarksRegistry. A prior notification of any such relevant marks(if they are to be found) can
be obtained by a request to the Registrar on Form TM-54.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 141
FORM TM-56
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
Fee: Rs.500/-
Application for extension of time [not being a ti me expressly provided in the Act or prescribed
by rule 79 or by rule 80(4)] or a time for the extension of which provision is made in the rules.
[Section 131. Rule 105.]
In the matter of '.......................................................
I (or we)2........................................................................being the '................................ i n the above
matter hereby apply for an extension of time of 3.................for4...............on the following grounds:-
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ...................day of .........19.........
5.............................
SIGNATURENAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at 6...............
1. Here insert words and reference number iden tifying the matter in respect of which the
application is made.
2. State full name and address.3. Insert the period of extension required.
4. State the purpose for which extension of time is required.
5. Signature.
6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- See rule 4.
Fee: Rs.500IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 142
FORM TM-57
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Application for review of Registrar's decision
Section 127(c) Rule 115
(To be filed in triplicate together with a statement in triplicate - vide Rule 115)
In the matter of '............................................................................
I (or we)2 .................................................... being the ....................... in the above matter hereby ap ply
to the Registrar for the review of this decision dated the ............. day of ...........20..........., in the above
matter.
The grounds for making this application are set forth in the accompanying statementAll communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .............day of ............20.........
3......................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at 4...................
1. Here Insert the words and reference number identifying the matter in respect of which the
application is made.
2. State full name and address.
3. Signature.
4. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry -See rule.
Fee: Rs.2000IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 143
FORM TM-58
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Request to Registrar for particulars of advertisement of a mark, Rule 46
I (or we)' .................................................................................... hereby request that I (or we) m ay be
informed of the number, date and page of the Journal in which the trade mark sought to be registered
under Application No.................in the name of ....................is advertised
The information may be sent to the following address in India 2-Dated this ................day of ..........20.........
3...........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at 4.................
1. State full name and address.
2. State only if the address given at 2 is not of a place in India.
3. Signature.
4. State the name of the place of appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry - See rule 4.
Fee: Rs.250IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 144
FORM TM-59
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Request for duplicate or further copy of the certificate of registration . Rule 62(3).
(If the applicant had furnished a label for advertisement, this Form must be accompanied by one
unmounted representation of the mark exactly as s hown in the Form of application at the time of
registration)
I (or we)'......................................................................................request the Registrar to furnis h me (us)
with 3 duplicate /further copy of the certificate of registration issued to me (us) under sub-section (2)
of section 23 in respect of my (our) Trade Mark NO. .............. registered in class ..........in the
Register.
The 2 duplicate/further copy of the certificate may be sent to my (our) following address in India:-
............................................................
Dated this ............day of ...........20.....
3...........................
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORYIN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at 4...............
1. Insert the name and address of the registered proprietor.
2. Strike out whichever is not applicable.
3. Signature of the registered proprietor or of his agent.
4. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- See rule 4.
Fee: Rs.500IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 145
FORM TM-60
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Request for search and issue of certificate under rule 24(3)
The Registrar is hereby requested under rule 24(3) to search to ascertain whether any trade marks are
on record which resemble the artistic work sent herewith in triplicate (each artistic work being
mounted in a sheet of strong paper approximately 30 centimetres by 20 centimetres in size) and issue
a certificate for use under section 45 of the Copyright Act, 1957.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .................day of .........20..........
{1} SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at Mumbai
1. Signature.
2. Address in India.
Fee: Rs.5000IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 146
FORM TM-61
THE TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Application under sub-rule 16 of Rule 25 for incl usion of specification of goods or services in
excess of 500 alphabetic characters.
I(we)1………………..being the applicant for the registration of a trade mark under No…………. in
class …………….hereby submit a sum of Rs……………..being the excess space fee at the rate ofRs.10 per alphabetic character in excess of the 500 alphabetic characters under sub-rule 16 of rule 25
I (we) state the total number of excess character under the aforesaid application is
……………….
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this …………………….day of ………………..20
2 SIGNATURE
NAME OF SINGATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry,
at 3
1. Insert the full name and address of the applicant.
2. Signature of applicant or agent.
3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry (see rule 4).
Fee: Rs.10 per alphabetic character in excess of 500 alphabetic characters.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 147
FORM TM-62
THE TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Application for the consent of the Registrar under Section 43, Rule 140(2) to the assignment or
transmission of certification trade mark.
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by three copies of the draft deed of assignment or by an
affidavit and two copies of the affidavit)
I (or We) 1 ………being the registered proprietor of Certification Trade Mark NO…………..
registered in class (es) ……………hereby apply for the consent of the Registrar to the assignment or
transmission of the aforesaid Certification Trade Mark to 2………….
3A draft deed of the proposed assignment is transmitted herewith
3 The circumstances under which the transmission takes place are set forth in the accompanying
affidavit
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this …………… day of ……….20….
4 SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTER
To
The Registrar of Trade Mark
The Office of the Trade Mark Registry at 5……….
1. Insert the name, address and nationality of the registered proprietor.
2. Insert name, address and nationality and description of the proposed transferee.3. Strike out one of these paragraphs not required in any particular case.
4. Signature of the registered proprietor or of his agent.
5. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry -See rule 4.
Fee: Rs.1,000/-IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 148
FORM TM-63
THE TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Request under rule 38(1) for the expedited examination of an application for the registration of
a trade mark.
Rule 8 (c ), 38(1)
In the matter of Application NO……………… in class …………….. filed on ………………
I (we) hereby request the Registrar for the issuance of an expedited examination report in
respect of the above mentioned application.
The reasons for the request is mentioned in the accompanying declaration.
All communications relating to this request may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this …………….. day of ………….20….
1……………..
2……………
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at Mumbai………….
Signature.
Name of signatory in letter.
Fee: Rs.12,500IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 149
FORM TM-64
THE TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Application under section 63(1) to register a co llective mark for a specification of goods or
services included in a class from a convention country under section 154(2) Rule 128(1)
(to be filed in triplicate accompanied by three copies of the draft regulation with Form TM-49)
One representation is to be fixed within this space and five others is to be sent separately.
Representation of a larger size may be folded but must then be mounted upon linen or other suitable
material and affixed hereto. See rule 28.
Application is hereby made for registration in the Register of Trade Mark of the accompanying
collective mark in class1……….. in respect of 2………… in the name of3……….whose address is4…………
The first application in a country to register the collective mark has been made in ……..on
……….
A certified copy certified by an official of the convention country in which the first
application was filed is enclosed (along with its translation in English)
I(we request that the collective mark may be registered with priority date based on the above
mentioned first application in a convention country under the provisions of Section 154 of the Act.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ………. Day of ……..20……
{5}……………
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at 6……………
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class of the goods or services is not known.2. Specify the goods or services.3. Insert the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the applicant). In
the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names anddescriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as the
case may be, should be stated. See rule 16.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 150
4. Here insert the full address of the applicant. If the applicant is a body corporate the nature
and country of incorporation should be stated. (See rule 16).
5. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Sec. 145)
6. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry – (See
rule 4).
Fee: Rs.10,000IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 151
FORM TM-65
THE TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Application under section 71 to register a certification trade mark for specification of goods or
services included in a class from a convention country under section 154(2) Rule 135(1)
(to be filed in triplicate accompanied by three copies of the draft regulation with Form TM-49)
One representation is to be fixed within this space and five others is to be sent separately.
Representation of a larger size may be folded but must then be mounted upon linen or other suitable
material and affixed hereto. See rule 28.
Application is hereby made for registration in the Register of Trade Mark of the accompanying
certification trade mark in class1……….. in respect of2 ………… in the name of3……….whoseaddress is4 …………. The applicant (s) is (are) not carrying on business in the goods or services of
the kind for which the registration of the said certification trade mark is sought.
The first application in a country to register the certification trade mark has been made in
……..on ……….
A certified copy certified by an official of the convention country in which the first
application was filed is enclosed (along with its translation in English)
I(we request that the certification trade mark trade mark may be registered with priority date
based on the above mentioned first application in a convention country under the provisions of
Section 154 of the Act.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ………. Day of ……..20……
{5}………………
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at6………….
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class of the goods or services is not known.
2. Specify the goods or services for the class or classes in respect of which application is made.
A separate sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods or
services should not ordinarily exceed five hundred characters. An excess space fee of Rs. 10
per character is payable beyond this limit. See rule 25(16). The applicant shall state the exactnumber of excess characters where the specification of goods or services exceeds of five
hundred characters at the space provided immediately before the signature.
3. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the
applicant). In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the namesIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 152
and descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as
the case may be, should be stated. See rule 16.
4. The applicant shall state the address of his principal place of business in India. (See rules 3
and 17) If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services for which registration is
sought at only one place in India, such fact should be stated and the address of the place
given. If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services concerned at more places
than one in India, the applicant should state such fact and give the address of that place of
business which he considers to be his principal place of business. If, however, the applicant
does not carry on business in the goods or services concerned but carries on business in other
goods or services at any one place in India this fact should be stated and the address of that
place given; and where the applicant carries on such business at more places than one in
India, such fact should be stated and the address of the place which he considers to be hisprincipal place of business given. Where the applicant is not carrying on any business in
India the fact should be stated and the place of his residence in India, if any, should be stated
and the address of that place given. In addition to the principal place of business or of
residence in India, as the case may be, an applicant may if he so desires give an address in
India to which communications relating to the application may be sent). (see rule 19). Wherethe applicant has neither a place of business nor of residence in India the fact should be stated
and an address for service in India given along with his address in his home country abroad.
5. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank.
6. If colour combination is claimed, clearly indicate it and state the colours. If the application is
in respect of a three dimensional mark, a statement to that effect. (See rule 25 and 29)
7. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Section 145)
8. State the name and place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- (See rule 4).
Fee: Rs.10,000/-IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 153
FORM TM-66
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
A single application for registration of a collective trade mark for different classes.
Section 18(2),63(1). Rule 25(17(a),103, 128(1).
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by five additional representations of the collective mark
and three copies of the draft regulation in Form TM-49)
One representation to be fixed within this
space and five others to be sent separately.Representation of a larger size may be
folded but must then be mounted upon linen
or other suitable material and affixed hereto.
See rule 28.
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
Collective trade mark in
(i) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(ii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(iii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
in the name(s) of 3................... whose address is 4 ………………
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........20............
5..SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORYIN BLOCK LETTERS.
To
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at6........................
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class or classes of the goods or services is not
known.
2. Specify the goods or services for the class or classes in respect of which application is made.
A separate sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods orservices should not ordinarily exceed five hundred characters. An excess space fee of Rs. 10
per character is payable beyond this limit. See rule 25(16). The applicant shall state the exact
number of excess characters where the specification of goods or services exceeds of five
hundred characters at the space provided immediately before the signature.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 154
3. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the
applicant). In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names
and descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as
the case may be, should be stated. See rule 16.
4. The applicant shall state the address of his principal place of business in India. (See rules 3
and 17) If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services for which registration is
sought at only one place in India, such fact should be stated and the address of the place
given. If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services concerned at more places
than one in India, the applicant should state such fact and give the address of that place of
business which he considers to be his principal place of business. If, however, the applicant
does not carry on business in the goods or services concerned but carries on business in other
goods or services at any one place in India this fact should be stated and the address of thatplace given; and where the applicant carries on such business at more places than one in
India, such fact should be stated and the address of the place which he considers to be his
principal place of business given. Where the applicant is not carrying on any business in
India the fact should be stated and the place of his residence in India, if any, should be stated
and the address of that place given. In addition to the principal place of business or ofresidence in India, as the case may be, an applicant may if he so desires give an address in
India to which communications relating to the application may be sent). (see rule 19). Where
the applicant has neither a place of business nor of residence in India the fact should be stated
and an address for service in India given along with his address in his home country abroad.
5. Strike out if the mark is already in use.
6. Strike out the words if not applicable. If user by predecessor(s) in title is claimed the name(s)
of such person(s) together with the date of commencement of use by the applicant himself
should be stated at 8.
7. If there has been no use of the trade mark in respect of all the goods or services specified at 2,
the items of goods in respect of which the mark has actually been used should be stated.
8. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank.
9. If colour combination is claimed, clearly indicate it and state the colours. If the application is
in respect of a three dimensional mark, a statement to that effect. (See rule 25 and 29)
10. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Section 145)
11. State the name and place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- (See rule 4).
Fee: Rs.10,000/- for each classIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 155
FORM TM-67
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
A single application for the registration of a collective trade mark for different classes from
convention country.
Section 18(2), 63(1), 154(4), Rule 25(17)(b), 103,128(1)
(To be filled in triplicate accompanied by five additional representation of the collective trade
mark and three copies of the draft regulation in Form TM-49)
One representation to be fixed within this
space and five others to be sent separately.
Representation of the larger size may be
folded but must then be mounted upon linen
or other suitable material affixed thereto. See
rule 28.
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
Collective trade mark in
(i) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(ii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(iii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
in the name(s) of 3................... whose address is 4 .......................
The first application in a convention country to register the trade mark has been made in
on
A certified copy certified by an official of the convention country in which the first
application was filed is enclosed (along with its translation in English).
I/We request that the trade mark may be registered with priority date based on the above
mentioned first application in a convention country under the provisions of Section 154 of the Act.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........20............
{5} SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY INLETTERS.
To
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at6........................
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class or classes of the goods or services is not
known.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 156
2. Specify the goods or services for the class or classes in respect of which application is made.
A separate sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods or
services should not ordinarily exceed five hundred characters. An excess space fee of Rs. 10
per character is payable beyond this limit. See rule 25(16). The applicant shall state the exact
number of excess characters where the specification of goods or services exceeds of five
hundred characters at the space provided immediately before the signature.
3. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the
applicant). In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names
and descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as
the case may be, should be stated. See rule 16.
4. The applicant shall state the address of his principal place of business in India. (See rules 3
and 17) If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services for which registration is
sought at only one place in India, such fact should be stated and the address of the place
given. If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services concerned at more places
than one in India, the applicant should state such fact and give the address of that place of
business which he considers to be his principal place of business. If, however, the applicantdoes not carry on business in the goods or services concerned but carries on business in other
goods or services at any one place in India this fact should be stated and the address of that
place given; and where the applicant carries on such business at more places than one in
India, such fact should be stated and the address of the place which he considers to be his
principal place of business given. Where the applicant is not carrying on any business inIndia the fact should be stated and the place of his residence in India, if any, should be stated
and the address of that place given. In addition to the principal place of business or of
residence in India, as the case may be, an applicant may if he so desires give an address in
India to which communications relating to the application may be sent). (see rule 19). Where
the applicant has neither a place of business nor of residence in India the fact should be statedand an address for service in India given along with his address in his home country abroad.
5. Strike out if the mark is already in use.
6. Strike out the words if not applicable. If user by predecessor(s) in title is claimed the name(s)
of such person(s) together with the date of commencement of use by the applicant himself
should be stated at 8.
7. If there has been no use of the trade mark in respect of all the goods or services specified at 2,
the items of goods in respect of which the mark has actually been used should be stated.
8. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank.
9. If colour combination is claimed, clearly indicate it and state the colours. If the application is
in respect of a three dimensional mark, a statement to that effect. (See rule 25 and 29)
10. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Section 145)
11. State the name and place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- (See rule 4).
Fee: Rs.10,000/- for each classIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 157
FORM TM-68
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
A single application for registration of a certification trade mark for different classes.
Section 18(2),71. Rule 25(18)(a),103, 135.
(To be filed in triplicate accompanied by five additional representations of the collective mark and
three copies of the draft regulation in Form TM-49)
One representation to be fixed within this
space and five others to be sent separately.
Representation of a larger size may be
folded but must then be mounted upon linen
or other suitable material and affixed hereto.
See rule 28.
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
Certification trade mark in
(i) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(ii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(iii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
in the name(s) of 3................... whose address is 4 .......................
The applicant(s) is (are) not carrying on business in the goods or services of the kind for which
registration of the said certification trade mark is sought.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........20............
5. .SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY
IN LETTERS .
To
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at........................
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class of the goods or services is not known.
2. Specify the goods or services for the class or classes in respect of which application is made.
A separate sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods or
services should not ordinarily exceed five hundred characters. An excess space fee of Rs. 10
per character is payable beyond this limit. See rule 25(16). The applicant shall state the exact
number of excess characters where the specification of goods or services exceeds of fivehundred characters at the space provided immediately before the signature..IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 158
3. Insert the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the applicant). In
the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the names and
descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as the
case may be, should be stated. See rule 16.
4. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank.
5. If colour combination is claimed, clearly indicate it and state the colours. If the application is
in respect of a three dimensional mark, a statement to that effect. (See rule 25 and 29)
6. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Section 145)
7. State the name and place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry- (See rule 4).
Fee: Rs.10,000/- for each classIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 159
FORM TM-69
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's code No:
Proprietor's code No:
A single application for the registration of a cer tification trade mark in different classes from
convention country.
Section 18(2), 71, 154(2), Rule 25(18)(b), 103,135
(To be filled in triplicate accompanied by five additional representation of the collective trade mark
and three copies of the draft regulation in Form TM-49).
One representation to be fixed within this
space and five others to be sent separately.
Representation of the larger size may be
folded but must then be mounted upon linen
or other suitable material affixed thereto. Seerule 28.
Application is hereby made for registration in the register of the accompanying
Collective trade mark in
(i) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(ii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
(iii) class 1 .................................. in respect of 2 ........................
in the name(s) of 3................... whose address is 4 .......................
The applicant (s) is (are) not carrying on business in the goods or services of the kind for
which registration of the said certification trade mark is sought.
The first application in a convention country to register the certification trade mark has been
made in on
A certified copy certified by an official of the convention country in which the first
application was filed is enclosed (along with its translation in English).
I/We request that the certification trade mark may be registered with priority date based on
the above mentioned first application in a convention country under the provisions of Section 154 of
the Act.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ................day of ...........20............
5..SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS.
To
The Registrar of Trade marks,
The office of the Trade Marks Registry at6........................IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 160
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class of the goods or services is not
known.
2. Specify the goods or services for the class or classes in respect of which application is made.
A separate sheet detailing the goods or services may be used. The specification of goods orservices should not ordinarily exceed five hundred characters. An excess space fee of Rs. 10
per character is payable beyond this limit. See rule 25(16). The applicant shall state the exact
number of excess characters where the specification of goods or services exceeds of five
hundred characters at the space provided immediately before the signature.
3. Insert legibly the full name, description (occupation and calling and nationality of the
applicant). In the case of a body corporate or firm the country of incorporation or the namesand descriptions of the partners composing the firm and the nature of registration, if any, as
the case may be, should be stated. See rule 16.
4. The applicant shall state the address of his principal place of business in India. (See rules 3
and 17) If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services for which registration issought at only one place in India, such fact should be stated and the address of the place
given. If the applicant carries on business in the goods or services concerned at more places
than one in India, the applicant should state such fact and give the address of that place of
business which he considers to be his principal place of business. If, however, the applicant
does not carry on business in the goods or services concerned but carries on business in othergoods or services at any one place in India this fact should be stated and the address of that
place given; and where the applicant carries on such business at more places than one in
India, such fact should be stated and the address of the place which he considers to be his
principal place of business given. Where the applicant is not carrying on any business in
India the fact should be stated and the place of his residence in India, if any, should be statedand the address of that place given. In addition to the principal place of business or of
residence in India, as the case may be, an applicant may if he so desires give an address in
India to which communications relating to the application may be sent). (see rule 19). Where
the applicant has neither a place of business nor of residence in India the fact should be stated
and an address for service in India given along with his address in his home country abroad.
5. For additional matter if required, otherwise to be left blank.6. If colour combination is claimed, clearly indicate it and state the colours. If the application is
in respect of a three dimensional mark, a statement to that effect. (See rule 25 and 29)
7. Signature of the applicant or of his agent (legal practitioner or registered trade marks agent or
person in the sole and regular employment of the applicant- See Section145)
8. State the name and place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks
Registry –(See rule 4).
Fee: Rs.10,000/- for each classIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 161
FORM TM-70
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Request for expedited certificate of the Registra r (Section 137 or 148. Rule 8(2)( c),114 and 115)
Proviso to Rule 119.
In the matter ' of Trade Mark No. .............................................. registered in ............ Class
......................................................... I (or we)2 ................................................hereby req uest the
Registrar to furnish me (us) with his certificate to the effect that4 .............................
a certified copy
......................................................... .........................................................
......................................................... ......................................................... 3a certifi cate of the
registration of Trade Marks for use in obtaining registration in4 ......................................
................... The certificate/certified copy be sent to the following address in India5
.........................................................
Dated this .............day of ......20..........
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
ToThe Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at Mumbai
1. These words may be varied to suit other cases.
2. Insert name, address and nationality of the person making the request.3. Strike out words that are not applicable.
4. Set out the particulars which the Registrar is required to certify or state particulars of the
document of which a certified copy is required.
5. Insert the name of country or state.
6. Signature.7. See rule 8(2)( c)
Fee.: Rs.2,500/-. See entry No.74 of the First schedule.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 162
FORM TM-71
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agent's Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Request for expedited Search Report
Rule 8(2)(c ), proviso to Rule 24(1)
The Registrar is hereby requested under rule 24(1) to search in class' ................in respect
of2................. to ascertain whether any Trade Marks are on record which resemble the Trade Mark
sent herewith in triplicate [each representation being mounted on a sheet of strong paper
approximately of ( 33 centimetres by 20 centimetres) in size].
All communications relating to this request ma y be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ..............day of ...........20.......
3
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
ToThe Registrar of Trade Marks,
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at Mumbai
1. The Registrar's direction may be obtained if the class is not known.
2. Here specify the goods or services (in the class stated) in respect of which the search is to be
made.
3. Signature.
Fee: Rs.2,500/-. See entry No.75 of the First scheduleIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 163
FORM TM-72
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Request for expedited search and issuance of certificate under Section 45(1) of the Copyright
Act, 1957. Rule 8(2)( c), rule 24(5)
The Registrar is hereby requested under rule 24(3) to search to ascertain whether any trade marks are
on record which resemble the artistic work sent herewith in triplicate (each artistic work being
mounted in a sheet of strong paper approximately 30 centimetres by 20 centimetres in size) and issue
a certificate for use under section 45 of the Copyright Act, 1957.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .................day of .........20..........
1SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at Mumbai
1. Signature
Fee: Rs.25,000. See entry No.76 of the First ScheduleIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 164
FORM TM-73
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Request for rectification of the register or removal of a trade mark from the register.
Section 25(a), rule 74(2) of the Geographical I ndications of Goods (Registration and Protection)
Act, 1999.
( To be filed in triplicate along with the Stat ement of Case in triplicate together with an
affidavit accompanied by as many copies of them as there may be registered user under registration. )
In the matter of trade marks no…………………registered in the name of
…………………………..in class………..
I/We 1………………..hereby apply that the entry in the register in respect of the
abovementioned trade mark may be removed/rectified 2 in the following
manner:………………………….
The grounds of my (our) request are as follows:……………
The 3…………………………..office of Trade Marks Registry has been entered in the
register as the appropriate office in relation to the trade mark.
The affidavit 4 to accompany the Statement of Ca se shall declare that the particular set out in
the statement are true and comprise every material facts and documents concerning the trade markwhich contains or consists of a geographical indication not originating the territory of a country, or a
region or locality in that territory with such geographical indication indicates and which is likely to
cause confusion or mislead persons as to the true place of origin of such goods or class or classes of
goods to the best of knowledge, information in belief of the deponent.
All communications to this request may be sent to the following address in
India:…………………..
Dated this…………day………..of…. …..00
{5} SIGNATURE…..
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To,
The Registrar of Trade Marks…………….
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at 3……………
1. State the full name, address and nationality. An address for service in India should be stated if
the applicant has no place of business or residence in India.
2. Strike out the word which is not applicable.
3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry-see Rule 4.
4. The affidavit should be made by the persons filing the request to refuse or invalidate the
registration of the trade mark.
5. Signature.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 165
6. State the name of the place of appropriate office of the trade marks registry (See rule 4)
Fee- Rs. 3000.00/-
FORM TM-74
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Request for rectification of the register or removal of a trade mark from the register.
Section 25(b), rule 75(2) of the Geographical In dications of Goods (Registration and Protection)
Act, 1999.
( To be filed in triplicate along with the Stat ement of Case in triplicate together with an
affidavit accompanied by as many copies of them as there may be registered user under registration. )
In the matter of trade marks no…………………registered in the name of
…………………………..in class………..
I/We 1………………..hereby apply that the entry in the register in respect of the
abovementioned trade mark may be removed/rectified 2 in the followingmanner:………………………….
The grounds of my (our) request are as follows:……………
The 3…………………………..office of Trade Marks Registry has been entered in the
register as the appropriate office in relation to the trade mark.
The affidavit 4 to accompany the Statement of Case shall declare that the particulars set out in
the statement are true and comprise every material facts and documents concerning the trade markwhich conflicts or which contains or consists of geographical indication identifying goods or class or
classes of goods notified under sub-section (2) of section 22 to the best of knowledge, information and
belief of the deponent.
All communications to this request may be se nt to the following address in India:…………………..
Dated this…………day………..of…. …..00
{5}SIGNATURE…
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To,
The Registrar of Trade Marks…………….
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at 3……………IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 166
1. State the full name, address and nationality. An address for service in India should be stated if
the applicant has no place of business or residence in India.
2. Strike out the word which is not applicable.
3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry-see
Rule 4.
4. The affidavit should be made by the persons filing the request to refuse or invalidate the
registration of the trade mark.
5. Signature
Fee- Rs. 3,000.00/-IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 167
FORM TM-75
THE TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Agents Code No:
Proprietor's Code No:
Fee: Rs. 5,000/-
Request for search and issuance of certificate under rule 32.
I/We…………………………….. request the Registrar to search and ascertain whether any
trade mark(s) is (are) on record which rese mbles the name (or proposed name) of the
company sent herewith in triplicate (each re presentation being mounted on a sheet of strong
paper approximately 33 cm by 20 cm in size) and issue a certificate.
All communication relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:
[1]
Date this ……………….. day ……. of 20……
SIGNATURE [2]
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
ToThe Registrar of Trade Marks……
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at …..
1. Address in India
2. SignatureIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 168
FORM TMA-1
THE TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Fee: Rs. 1,000/-
Application for registration as a Trade Marks Agent, Rule 153
(To be filed in triplicate)
I beg to apply for registration as a trade marks agent under the Trade Marks Act,1999.1 A certificate of character from................ is enclosed herewith.I, hereby declare that I am not subject to any of the disabilities stated in clauses (i), (ii),(iii),(iv),(v)
and (vi) of rule 151 of the Trade Marks Rules,2000 and that the information given below is true to the
best of my knowledge and belief.
1. Name in full beginning with surname if any (in capital letters).......................
2. Address of the place of residence...................................................................
3. Principal place of business..............................................................................4. Father's name.................................................................................................5. Nationality......................................................................................................6. Date and place of birth...................................................................................
7. Occupation in full...........................................................................................
8. Particulars of qualifications for registration as a trade marks agent {2}...........................
9. Whether at any time removed from the Register of Trade Marks Agents and if so the
Dated this.......day of .......20.......
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
[2]
To
The Registrar of Trade Marks
The Office of the Trade Marks Registry at …….
1. The certificate should be from the District Magistrate of the District where the applicant
ordinarily resides.
2. Documents should be attested by a Judicial Magistrate or Notary Public.
3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry (See rule 4)IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 169
FORM TMA-2
THE TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Application for the restoration of the name of a person to the Register of Trade Marks Agents
(Rule 159)
(To be filed in triplicate)
I1.......................................................................................................of.................... ..................................
.........
hereby apply for the restoration of my name to the Register of trade marks Agents in which my name
was entered under No........... My name was removed on.......... under clause (b) of rule 157(1) of theTrade Marks Rules,2001.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this .......day of ......20.......
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN
LETTERS
To,
Registrar of Trade marks,
The Office of the Trade marks Registry at 2..................
See rule 152.
Fee: Rs.1000 plus continuance fee specified in entry No.79 of the First Schedule.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 170
FORM TMA-3
THE TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Application for an alteration of an en try in the Register of Trade Marks Agents
(Rule160 )
(To be filed in triplicate)
I1 .................................................of...................... being a registered trade marks agent (Registratio n
No.......) hereby request that my 2 name, address of the place of residence address of the principal
place of business or qualifications entered in the Register of Trade Marks Agents may be altered as
follows:-
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this............day of .........20......
SIGNATURE
NAME OF SIGNATORY IN LETTERS
To,
Registrar of Trade marks,
The Office of the Trade marks Registry at 3
1. Insert name and address in full.
2. Strike out words not applicable.
3. State the name of the place of the appropriate office of the Trade Marks Registry .See rule 152.
Fee: Rs.200/-IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 171
THE THIRD SCHEDULE
Forms to be used by the Registrar
LIST OF FORMS
Form No. Section Title
0-1 23(3) .. Notice of non-completion of registration
0-2 23(2) .. Certificate of registration of trade mark
0-3 25(3) .. Notice of expiration of last registration.
0-4 (Rule 155) .. Certificate of registration of a person as a trade marks
agent.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 172
FORM 0-1
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
TRADE MARKS REGISTRY
TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Notice of non-completion of registration. Section 23(3). Rule 58.
No.............
Notice is hereby given as required by section 23(3) of the Trade Marks Act,1999 , that the registration
of the trade mark, in respect of which application numbered as above was made on the ........day of
.....20...., has not been completed by reason of default on the part of the applicant. Unless registrationis completed within twenty-one days from the date of this notice, the application will be treated as
abandoned.
All communications relating to this application may be sent to the following address in India:-
Dated this ......day of .....20....
Registrar of Trade Marks.
To,_______________IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 173
FORM 0-2
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
TRADE MARKS REGISTRY
TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Certificate of registration of trade mark. Section 23(2). Rule 62(1)
Trade Marks No....................
Date.........................
Certified that the Trade Mark of which a representation is annexed hereto, has been registered in the
register in the name of .....in Class.....under NO.......as of the date ..........in respect of ............
Sealed at my directi on this:......day of .....20......
Registrar of Trade marks.
Registration is for 10 years from the date first above-mentioned and may then be renewed for a period
of 10 years, and also at the expiration of each period of 10 years thereafter. (See section 25 of the
Trade Marks Act,1999 and Rules 63 to 66 of the Trade Marks Rules,2000).
This certificate is not for use in legal proceedings or for obtaining registration abroad.
Note - Upon any change of ownership of this trade ma rk, or change in address of the principal place
of business or address for service in India, application should AT ONCE be made to register
the change.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 174
FORM 0-3
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
TRADE MARKS REGISTRY
TRADE MARKS ACT,1999
Notice of expiration of last registration, Section 25(3)
(Rule 64(1))
Registered Trade Mark No…….
Class……
Notice is hereby given as required in section 25(3) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 that the registration
of the aforesaid trade mark will expire on … ….. and that the registration can be renewed for a
further period of 10 years on receipt in the Trade Marks Registry of an application on the enclosed
Form TM-12 accompanied by the prescribed fee of Rs……. on or before the said date………
Dated this………day of ……..2000.
Registrar of Trade Marks
N.B.
Registration is for 10 years from the date first above-mentioned and may then be renewed for a
period of 10 years, and also at the expiration of each period of 10 years thereafter. [See section 25(3)
of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.]
This certificate is not for use in legal proceedings or for obtaining registration abroad.Note - Upon any change of ownership of this trade ma rk, or change in address of the principal place
of business or address for service in India, application should AT ONCE be made to register
the change.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 175
FORM 0-4
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
TRADE MARKS REGISTRY
TRADE MARKS ACT, 1999
Certificate of Registration as Trade Marks Agent
(Rule 155)
No...
This is to certify that ..............................................................................
............................................................................................................................... ...
............................................................................................................................... ..............
of ............................................................................................................................ .............
was registered on this .........day of .........20............in the Register of Trade Marks Agents maintained
under rule148 of the Trade Marks Rules, 2000.
Registrar of Trade MarksIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 176
THE FOURTH SCHEDULE
Classification of goods and services – Name of the classes
(Parts of an article or apparatus are, in general, cl assified with the actual article or apparatus, except
where such parts constitute articles included in other classes).
Class 1. Chemical used in industry, science, photography, agriculture, horticulture and
forestry; unprocessed artificial resins, unprocessed plastics; manures; fire
extinguishing compositions; tempering and soldering preparations; chemical
substances for preserving foodstuffs; tanning substances; adhesive used in industry
Class 2 . Paints, varnishes, lacquers; preservatives against rust and against deterioration of
wood; colorants; mordents; raw natural re sins; metals in foil and powder form for
painters; decorators; printers and artists
Class 3 . Bleaching preparations and other substances for laundry use; cleaning; polishing;
scouring and abrasive preparations; soaps; perfumery, essential oils, cosmetics, hairlotions, dentifrices
Class 4 . Industrial oils and greases; lubricants; dust absorbing, wetting and binding
compositions; fuels(including motor spirit) and illuminants; candles, wicks
Class 5 . Pharmaceutical, veterinary and sanitary preparations; dietetic substances adapted for
medical use, food for babies; plasters, materials for dressings; materials for stopping
teeth, dental wax; disinfectants; preparation for destroying vermin; fungicides,
herbicides
Class 6. Common metals and their alloys; metal building materials;
transportable buildings of metal; materials of metal for railway tracks; non-electric
cables and wires of common metal; ironmongery, small items of metal hardware;
pipes and tubes of metal; safes; goods of common metal not included in other classes;
ores
Class 7 . Machines and machine tools; motors and engines (except for land vehicles); machine
coupling and transmission components (except for land vehicles); agricultural
implements other than hand-operated; incubators for eggs
Class 8 . Hand tools and implements (hand-operated); cutlery; side arms; razors
Class 9 . Scientific, nautical, surveying, electric, photographic, cinematographic, optical,
weighing, measuring, signalling, checking (supervision), life saving and teaching
apparatus and instruments; apparatus for recording, transmission or reproduction of
sound or images; magnetic data carriers, recording discs; automatic vending machines
and mechanisms for coin-operated apparatus; cash registers, calculating machines,data processing equipment and computers; fire extinguishing apparatus
Class 10 . Surgical, medical, dental and veterinary apparatus and instruments, artificial limbs,
eyes and teeth; orthopaedic articles; suture materials
Class 11 . Apparatus for lighting, heating, steam generating, cooking, refrigerating, drying
ventilating, water supply and sanitary purposesIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 177
Class 12 . Vehicles; apparatus for locomotion by land, air or water
Class 13 . Firearms; ammunition and projectiles; explosives; fire works
Class 14 . Precious metals and their alloys and goods in precious metals or coated therewith, not
included in other classes; jewellery, precious stones; horological and other
chronometric instruments
Class 15. Musical instruments
Class 16 . Paper, cardboard and goods made from these materials, not included in other classes;
printed matter; bookbinding material; photographs; stationery; adhesives forstationery or household purposes; artists' materials; paint brushes; typewriters and
office requisites (except furniture); instructional and teaching material (except
apparatus); plastic materials for packaging (not included in other classes); playing
cards; printers' type; printing blocks
Class 17 . Rubber, gutta percha, gum, asbestos, mica and goods made from these materials and
not included in other classes; plastics in extruded form for use in manufacture;
packing, stopping and insulating materials; flexible pipes, not of metal
Class 18 . Leather and imitations of leather, and goods made of these materials and not
included in other classes; animal skins, hides, trunks and travelling bags; umbrellas,
parasols and walking sticks; whips, harness and saddlery
Class 19 . Building materials, (non-metallic), non-metallic rigid pipes for building; asphalt,
pitch and bitumen; non-metallic transportable buildings; monuments, not of metal.
Class 20 . Furniture, mirrors, picture frames; goods(not included in other classes) of wood, cork,
reed, cane, wicker, horn, bone, ivory, wh alebone, shell, amber, mother- of-pearl,
meerschaum and substitutes for all these materials, or of plastics
Class 21 . Household or kitchen utensils and containers(not of precious metal or coated
therewith); combs and sponges; brushes(except paints brushes); brush making
materials; articles for cleaning purposes ; steelwool; unworked or semi-worked glass
(except glass used in building); glassware, porcelain and earthenware not included in
other classes
Class 22 . Ropes, string, nets, tents, awnings, tarpaulins, sails, sacks and bags (not included in
other classes) padding and stuffing materials(except of rubber or plastics); raw
fibrous textile materials
Class 23 . Yarns and threads, for textile use
Class 24 . Textiles and textile goods, not included in other classes; bed and table covers.
Class 25 . Clothing, footwear, headgear
Class 26 . Lace and embroidery, ribbons and braid; buttons, hooks and eyes, pins and needles;
artificial flowersIP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 178
Class 27 . Carpets, rugs, mats and matting, linoleum and other materials for covering existing
floors; wall hangings(non-textile)
Class 28 . Games and playthings, gymnastic and sporting articles not included in other classes;
decorations for Christmas trees
Class 29 . Meat, fish, poultry and game; meat extracts; preserved, dried and cooked fruits and
vegetables; jellies, jams, fruit sauces; eggs, milk and milk products; edible oils and
fats
Class 30 . Coffee, tea, cocoa, sugar, rice, tapioca, sago, artificial coffee; flour and preparations
made from cereals, bread, pastry and confectionery, ices; honey, treacle; yeast,
baking powder; salt, mustard; vinegar, sauces, (condiments); spices; ice
Class 31. Agricultural, horticultural and forestry products and grains not included in other
classes; live animals; fresh fruits and vegetables; seeds, natural plants and flowers;
foodstuffs for animals, malt
Class 32 . Beers, mineral and aerated waters, and other non-alcoholic drinks; fruit drinks and
fruit juices; syrups and other preparations for making beverages
Class 33 . Alcoholic beverages(except beers)
Class 34 . Tobacco, smokers' articles, matches
SERVICES
Class 35 . Advertising, business management, business administration, office functions.
Class 36 . Insurance, financial affairs; monetary affairs; real estate affairs.
Class 37 . Building construction; repair; installation services.
Class 38. Telecommunications.
Class 39. Transport; packaging and storage of goods; travel arrangement.
Class 40. Treatment of materials.
Class 41. Education; providing of training; entertainment; sporting and cultural activities.
Class 42. Providing of food and drink; temporar y accommodation; medical, hygienic and
beauty care; veterinary and agricultural services, legal services, scientific and
industrial research; computer programming; services that cannot be classified in other
classes.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 179
THE FIFTH SCHEDULE
List of items of textile goods referred to in rule 145
No. of item
1. Grey Longcloth, Shirtings, Cellular, Limbric, Poplin, Sheetings, Printers and Lepard Cloth -
Including all abovementioned grey cloths with no colour in the body except a woven
coloured heading.
2. Grey Drills, Jeans and Duck - Including only grey cloth and not striped drills with grey
grounds
3. Grey Twills .
4. Grey Salitha, T-Cloths and Domestics5. Grey Coarse Cloth6. Grey Chadars of Plain Weave and Khadi Chadars - Including all chadars of plain weave with
no colour in the body but with or without a wo ven coloured heading or fancy heading, but not
including check Chadars and striped Chadars.
7. Grey Chadars of Twill Weave - Including only grey twill chadars with no colour in the body
except a woven coloured heading.
8. Grey Dhoties including Tahmad [This item relates only to grey ground dhoties (of all
dimensions) with or without artificial silk, coloured yarn, folded yarn, or printed borders andheadings]
9. Grey Saries and Scarves and Sari Cloth - Including only grey ground Saries ( of all
dimensions) with or without artificial silk,col oured yarn or printed borders and headings and
sari cloth in piece length but not including Saries with striped or check grounds, and dyed andprinted Saries.
10. Grey Dosuti11. Grey Jaconets, Jagannathi, Mulls and Mulmulls12 Grey pagree Cloth13. Grey Matting Weave and Canvas including Filter cloth14. Sambura Cloth - Grey Drill with red and black headings and coloured runner in the centre.
15. Whole Grey Dobby Cloth and Doria
16. Bleached Longcloth, Shirtings, Cellular, Limbri c, Poplin, Sheetings and Printers - Including
all the above mentioned plain cloths with no colour in the body except a woven coloured
heading.
17. Bleached drills, jeans and Duck - See note under item 16.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 180
18. Bleached Twills - see note under item 16. This item does not include Striped Twills on
bleached ground.
19. Bleached T Cloths and Domestics - See note under item 16
20. Bleached Coarse cloth - see note under item 16.
21. Bleached Chadars - Including chadars of plain and twill weave.22. Bleached Mulls, Jaconets and Nainsooks - See note under item 16.23. Bleached Madapollams and Cambrics - See note under item 16.24. Bleached Dhoties including Tahmad - This item relates only to plain bleached ground dhoties
(of all dimensions) with artificial silk, coloured yarn, folded yarn, or printed borders and
headings.
25. Bleached Saries and Scarves - Including only plain bleached ground Saries (of all
dimensions) with artificial silk, coloured yarn or printed borders and headings, but not
including Saries with stripes or checks and dyed and printed Saries.
26. Bleached Dosuti - See note under item 16.27. Bleached Voiles and Muslins - See note under item 16.28. Bleached Dorias and Fancies - including bleached cloth with bleached folded yarn stripes or
checks.
29. Bleached Matting Weave and Canvas - See note under item 16.30. Bleached Pagree Cloth- See note under item 16.
31. Embroidered Voiles, Muslins etc, Bleached.
32. Bleached Flannel and Flannelettes and all bleached cloths raised on one side kind cotton
Velvet.
33. Dyed Longcloth, Shirtings, Cellular, Limbric, Poplin and Sheetings - Including the above
mentioned cloths dyed in the piece.
34. Dyed Drills - see note under item 33. This item also includes coloured warp or weft drills.35. Dyed Twills - See note under item 33.
36. Dyed T-cloths and Domestics - See note under item 33.
37. Dyed Coarse Cloth - See note under item 33.38. Dyed Chadars - See note under item 33.39. Dyed Dhoties including Tahmad, Saries and Shawls - This item includes dhoties, saries or
shawls dyed in the piece.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 181
40. Dyed Fancies - including fancies with single colour warp or weft fancies or printed yarn in
the warp or weft or both.
41. Dyed Pagree Cloth - see note under item 33.
42. Dyed Voiles - including bordered voiles.
43. Dyed Flannelettes - Including Grey and self-c oloured Flannelettes and all dyed cloths raised
on one side and cotton velvet.
44. Dyed Mulls.
45. Dyed Umbrella Cloth.
46. Coatings and Trouserings (including Sholapuri, Chennai, Cloth, Sunproof cloth, Tussore,
Kashmere Cloth, Serges, Thana Cloth, Tweeds, Mazri, Malatia and Corduroy).- In addition to
the goods enumerated above, this item includes cotton dyed coatings and coatings withartificial silk in the warp or in the weft as stripes or checks, either alone or in combination
with dyed cotton yarn.
47. Striped Drills and Jeans and Striped Twills - Including striped drills or twills with grey,
bleached or coloured ground.
48. Bed ticking - with coloured warp and grey or bleached weft.49. Striped Coarse cloth - includin g both grey and bleached grounds.
50. Striped shirtings, Striped Susis and striped Ze phyrs - Including striped shirtings, etc. with
grey, bleached or coloured ground but not including artificial silk striped goods
51. Check shirtings, Check Susis and Check Zephyrs - See note under item 50.
52. Check Chadars - Including plain check chadar and twill check chadar on grey, bleached or
coloured grounds.
53. Lungis and Sarongs54. Woven coloured Saries and Scarves - (This includes saries and scarves with striped or check
grounds, but does not include saries and scarves in which there is artificial silk in the body ofthe cloth).
55. Check Cholas and Gumchas.56. Artificial Silk Striped Shirtings - This includes (a) artificial silk shirtings with an artificial
silk warp and weft, (b) an artificial silk warp, or (c) artificial silk only in stripes, either alone
or in combination with coloured cotton yarn.
57. Artificial Silk Check Shirtings - On grey, white and coloured grounds.
58. Artificial Silk Brocades and "All over Styles".IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 182
59. Artificial Silk Dhoties, Saries and Scarves and Sari Cloth - (This item includes dhoties and
saries in which an artificial silk warp or weft or both are used. It does not include dhoties,
etc. in which articial silk is used, only in the borders).
60. Crepe Cloth - Grey, Bleached and dyed. This item also includes crepe cloth yarn printed.
61. Dyed and striped Dosuti - including striped Dosuti bleached in the piece.
62. Printed dhoties, Shawls, Rumals, Saries and other printed garments - including Voile Saries
also.
63. Printed longcloth, Shirtings, Cellular, Limbric, Poplins and Sheetings - Grey, bleached and
dyed grounds.
64. Striped, Check and printed Flannelettes.65. Pure Silk Saries.
66. Leno and Mockleno, Bandage cloth - Grey, bleached, dyed or striped including Gauze cloth
also.
67. Terry Towels including towelling cloth - Grey, bleached, dyed, printed, striped or checked.
68. Buckaback towels including towelling cloth- Grey, bleached, dyed, printed, striped or
checked.
69. Honey Comb Towels including towelling clot h - Grey , bleached, dyed, printed, striped or
checked.
70. All other towels including towelling cloth.71. (a) Dusters, Handkerchiefs, Rumals and Glass Cloth (serviettes)
(b) Table cloth and table covers, napkins.
72. Dobby kind Jacquard Chadars, Bedspreads, Qu ilts and Counterpanes including Suzni - Grey,
bleached or coloured
73. Blankets and Malida Cloth - All types, including cotton and wool union blankets; and
shawls(not dyed or printed) or lohis of any fibres.
74. Durries and carpets including Satranji (floor carpets).
75. Dyed and coloured Canvas - Dyed or woven coloured.76. Artificial Silk zephyrs, Alpaca, Crepe, et c. - Plain and Fancy grounds (whole colour and
unstriped).
77. Motor hood cloth.78. Buckram cloth- grey, bleached and dyed.79. Striped voiles - Bleached and/or dyed in the piece.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 183
80. Printed Voiles - Grey, bleached and dyed.
81. Mookta cloth - This cloth is woven with cotton warp and flax weft.82. Artificial silk Tapestry and Upholstering Fabrics, including cotton furnishing fabrics and
casement cloths - Grey, bleached dyed and printed.
83. Bedford Cord - Bleached and dyed.84. Printed Crepe- Grey, bleached or dyed grounds.85. Pure Silk Coatings - Plain, striped or checked. This item also includes coatings made of
artificial fibres, filaments and yarns.
86. Pure Silk shirtings- Plain, striped or checked.87. Printed Drills, Twills and Jeans.
88. Corded Voiles - Bleached coloured, printed kind bordered.
89. Printed Boski - Artificial silk warp, weft or both.90. Artificial silk striped Voiles - Grey, Bleached and dyed voiles with artificial silk stripes in the
body of the cloth.
91. Bordered voiles - bleached, dyed and printed (with or without artificial silk border).92. Artificial Silk Satins - including satins made from 100 per cent silk or artificial silk in the
warp or weft.
93. Check Voiles, Grey, bleached and dyed (This item contains cotton voiles with grey,
bleached or coloured grounds with check designs all over the body of the cloth)
94. Grey Flannellettes - Including all grey cloths raised on one side and cotton velvet.IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 184
THE SIXTH SCHEDULE
Scale of costs allowable in Rule 114 proceedings before the Registrar
________________________________________________________
Entry Matter in respect of which costs to be awarded Amount
No.
________________________________________________________
1. For one day's hearing involving examination Rs.1000
of witnesses
2. For one day's hearing when there is no Rs. 500
examination of witnesses
3. For adjournment of hearing granted Rs.500 plus cost of
on the petition of any party. resummoning the other parties'
witness who were due to beexamined on the day
4. For striking out scandalous matter Rs.200
from an affidavit
5. For attendance of witnesses -
Subsistence allowance....
Travelling allowance... Rs.500 (vide not below) fare by rail
or steamer for the first or the secondclass each way and if there is no rail
or steamer communication Rs 5 or
2.50 per km. depending upon the
rank and status of the witness.
Note: the rates of subsistence allowance and travelling allowance for witness shall vary according to
the status of the witness subject to the maximum prescribed above.
--------------------IP/N/1/IND/T/2
Page 185
PART VIII
Language of the Trade Marks Registry.- (I)( a) The language of the Trade Marks Registry
shall be English:
Provided that the parties to a proceedings before the Trade Marks
Registry may file documents drawn up in Hindi, if they so desire:
Provided that where-
(a) the Registrar permits the use of Hindi in the proceedings of the Tribunal and hearing
in such proceedings, he may in his discretion direct an English translation of
pleadings and documents to be filed;
(b) The Trade Marks Registry located in "Region A" as defined in clause (f) of rule 2 of
the Official Languages (Use for Official Purposes of the Union) Rules,1976, the
Registrar may, in his discretion, make final orders either in Hindi or in English.
(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in paragraph (1), where a final order is made
in Hindi, an authenticated English translation thereof shall simultaneously be
prepared and kept on record.
__________
| 64,347 | 401,313 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_SG_M7S2.pdf
|
S_G_SG_M7S2
|
RESTRICTEDORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/SG/M/7/Suppl.2
19 de marzo de 1999
(99-1114)
Comité de Salvaguardias
ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN ORDINARIA CELEBRADA
EL 25 DE OCTUBRE DE 1996
Presidente: Sr. A. Buencamino (Filipinas)
Suplemento
1. El Comité de Salvaguardias celebró una reunión ordinaria el 25 de octubre de 1996. El acta
de esa reunión (G/SG/M/7 y Suppl.1) incluye referencias a los documentos en los que figuran las
respuestas escritas de los Miembros cuya legislación se examinó en la reunión. Después dedistribuida dicha acta, se recibieron respuestas adicionales a preguntas relativas a su legislación
planteadas en esa reunión. En consecuencia, la siguiente referencia a un documento debe
considerarse parte del acta de la reunión.
2. Las respuestas de Nigeria a las preguntas relativas a su legislación (párrafo 17 del acta)
figuran en el siguiente documento:
G/SG/Q1/NGA/2.
3. TODAVÍA NO SE HA RECIBIDO RESPUESTA A LAS SIGUIENTES PREGUNTAS
RELATIVAS A LA LEGISLACIÓN:
G/SG/Q1/CIV/1 - CÔTE D'IVOIRE.
__________
| 152 | 1,024 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_GC_W61.pdf
|
Q_WT_GC_W61
|
RESTRICTED
WORLD TRADE WT/GC/W/61
20June1997
ORGANIZATION(97-2544)
General Council Original: English
30June 1997
ACCREDITATION OFPERMANENT REPRESENTATIVES TOTHE WTO
Communication from theChairman
Thefollowing communication fromtheChairman oftheGeneral Council isbeing circulated
toMembers athisrequest.
_______________
Atthelastmeeting oftheGeneral Council anumber ofnewPermanent Representatives to
theWTO were inattendance without theknowledge oftheChairman oftheGeneral Council orthe
Secretariat. Thisisduetothefactthattheaccreditation ofcertain newPermanent Representatives
hadnotcome totheattention oftheresponsible officials intheSecretariat since nostandard practice
inthisrespect wasapplied inGATT noratpresent intheWTO.
Given theWTO 'sstatus asanindependent international organization which isnotpartofthe
United Nations system, itwould appear thatformal procedures forrecording thearrival anddeparture
ofAmbassadors andPermanent Representatives isimperative. Tothiseffect itmaybeuseful todraw
theattention ofMembers toArticle 10oftheVienna Convention ontheRepresentation ofStates in
Their Relations withInternational Organizations ofaUniversal Character of14March 1975.
Theattached noteonthismatter hasbeenprepared bytheSecretariat atmyrequest andisbeing
circulated toMembers forconsideration. Itismyintention toraisethismatter attheappropriate time
intheGeneral Council.WT/GC/W/61
Page2
ACCREDITATION OFPERMANENT REPRESENTATIVES TOTHE WTO
1. Attherequest oftheChairman oftheGeneral Council, theSecretariat hasprepared thisbrief
noteconcerning representation ofMembers attheWTO through Ambassadors andPermanent
Representatives. Inparticular, twoissues arediscussed: (a)theprocedure bywhich theWTO and
itsMembers areinformed oftheidentity ofAmbassadors andPermanent Representatives and(b)the
powers ofAmbassadors andPermanent Representatives inrespect ofacceptance ofinternational
obligations intheWTO context.
(a) Information onthearrival ofAmbassadors andPermanent Representatives
2. Historically, GATT contracting parties didnotfollow astandard practice inrespect ofinforming
theGATT Secretariat orother contracting parties ofthearrival (ordeparture) ofanAmbassador or
Permanent Representative torepresent theirinterests inconnection withGATT matters. Inprinciple,
anewly appointed Ambassador totheUnited Nations formally notified theDirector-General ofGATT
ofhisorherarrival andtheDirector-General inturncirculated thisinformation tothecontracting parties
byissuing alistofaccredited representatives toGATT. Thispractice wasnotalways followed, however.
Sometimes theDirector-General orGATT Secretariat weregiven formal orinformal notice fromcapitals
ofthearrival ofanewAmbassador orPermanent Representative. Sometimes theGeneva Secretariat
oftheUnited Nations informed theGATT Secretariat ofsucharrivals.
3. Thelackofastandard practice hascontinued under theWTO. Asaresult, Council and
Committee Chairmen, Members ingeneral andtheSecretariat arenotalways aware ofthearrival or
departure ofAmbassadors orPermanent Representatives. Asthemembership oftheGATT/WTO has
grown, ithasbecome increasingly difficult forMembers andtheSecretariat torelyoninformal means
tokeeptrackofsucharrivals anddepartures. Inaddition, itshould benoted thatincreasingly Members
haveestablishedspecialmissionstotheWTOthatareindependentoftheirmissionstotheUnitedNations
inGeneva. Thus, theAmbassadors andPermanent Representatives totheWTO areoften different
thanthose toother international organizations.
4. Thelackofastandard practice hinders theefficient administration ofcommunications between
WTO Members witheachother andthrough theSecretariat, which produces regularly adirectory
containing alistoftheAmbassadors andPermanent Representatives totheWTO. Moreover, given
theWTO 'sstatus asanindependent international organization (notthecaseofGATT), which isnot
partoftheUnited Nations system, itwould seem imperative thattheWTO anditsMembers should
develop formal procedures forrecording thearrival anddeparture ofAmbassadors andPermanent
Representatives. Inthisconnection, itisuseful torecall Article 10oftheVienna Convention onthe
Representation ofStates inTheir Relations withInternational Organizations ofaUniversal Character
(14March 1975):
"Credentials oftheheadofmission
Thecredentials oftheheadofmission shallbeissued bytheHead ofState, bytheHead of
Government, bytheMinister forforeign Affairs or,iftherulesoftheOrganization sopermit,
byanothercompetentauthorityofthesendingStateandshallbetransmittedtotheOrganization."
Although theConvention isnotyetinforce, itrestates standard practice inrespect ofinternational
organizations generally.
5. Inlightoftheforegoing, onepossible anduseful setofaccreditation practices tobefollowed
intheWTO would beforWTO Members toensure that,uponarrival ordeparture ofanAmbassador
orPermanent Representative, adocument indueandproper form isprovided totheWTOWT/GC/W/61
Page3
Director-General, withacopytotheChairman oftheGeneral Council, informing theWTO andits
Members ofthefollowing:
(i) inthecaseofarrivals, thename andtitleofthenewAmbassador orPermanent
Representative representing theirgovernment forWTO purposes andthedatewhen
thatperson takes uphisorhernewduties;
(ii) inthecaseofdepartures, thedateofdeparture oftheirAmbassador orPermanent
Representative andthename ofthechargé d'affaires a.i.(ifapplicable).
Inorder tofacilitate thebestpossible personal working relationships, itwould bepreferable forthe
document concerning thearrival ofanAmbassador orPermanent Representative tobepresented in
person totheDirector-General, asisthepractice inother organizations ofauniversal character, such
astheUnitedNations.TheDirector-GeneralwouldtheninformotherWTOMembersofanyinformation
received from aWTO Member regarding thearrival ordeparture ofitsAmbassador orPermanent
Representative. TheChairman oftheGeneral Council would thenwelcome thenewAmbassador or
Permanent Representative atthenextmeeting oftheGeneral Council. TheChairman would also
announce departures totheGeneral Council.
(b) Powers ofAmbassadors andPermanent Representatives
6. ItshouldberecalledthattheformalaccreditationofanAmbassadororPermanentRepresentative
totheWTO doesnotconstitute thegrant offullpowers toexecute WTO agreements orprotocols.
Unless there isageneral grant offullpowers totheAmbassador orPermanent Representative bythe
appropriate national authorities onfilewiththeSecretariat (only oneMember currently hassuchpowers
onfile),anAmbassador orPermanent Representative totheWTO needs aspecial grant offullpowers
tosignWTO agreements orprotocols. (Members mayavoid theneedforfullpowers authorizing
signatureofanagreementorprotocol,iftheyaccepttheagreementorprotocolbymeansofanInstrument
ofAcceptance issued bytheappropriate national authorities.)
| 554 | 6,763 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_L_146.pdf
|
S_G_L_146
|
ORGANIZACI ÓNMUNDIAL G/L/146
24defebrero de1997
DEL COMERCIO(97-0752)
REGLAMENTO DELASREUNIONES DEL COMITÉ
DEVALORACI ÓNENADUANA
Aprobado porelConsejo delComercio deMercancías
el1ºdediciembre de1995
Seaplicará mutatis mutandis alasreuniones delComité deValoración enAduana elReglamento
delasreuniones delConsejo General, excepto enlosextremos queseindican acontinuación:
i) Semodificará eltexto delartículo 1delcapítulo I(Reuniones), queseráelsiguiente:
ElComité deValoración enAduana sereunirá normalmente unavezalaño,ocuando
loprevean lasdisposiciones pertinentes delAcuerdo relativo alaAplicación del
Artículo VIIdelAcuerdo General sobre Aranceles Aduaneros yComercio de1994.
ii) Seañadirá lasiguiente notadepiedepágina alosartículos 2,3y4:
Queda entendido queesconveniente que,porlomenos tressemanas antes deuna
reunión,sepubliqueunavisodeconvocatoriadelareunión,lalistadepuntospropuestos
paraelorden deldíadeesareunión ylosdocumentos quedeberán examinarse endicha
reunión.
iii) Semodificará eltextodelartículo 4delcapítulo II(Orden deldía),queseráelsiguiente:
Lassolicitudes deinclusión depuntos enelorden deldíadeunapróxima reunión serán
transmitidas alaSecretaría porescrito junto conladocumentación complementaria
quedeberá distribuirse enrelación conesepunto. Ladocumentación quedeberá
examinarse enunareunión serádistribuida amástardar 10díasnaturales antes dela
fecha fijada paralareunión.
iv) Noesaplicable elartículo 5delcapítulo II(Orden deldía).
v) Semodificarán losartículos 12,13y14delcapítulo V(Mesa), quedirán losiguiente:
Artículo 12
ElComité deValoración enAduana elegirá unPresidente*ypodrá elegir un
Vicepresidente entre losrepresentantes delosMiembros. Estaelección serealizará
enlaprimera reunión delañoyseráefectiva altérmino delareunión. ElPresidente
yelVicepresidente permanecerán enfunciones hasta eltérmino delaprimera reunión
delañosiguiente.
*ElComité deValoración enAduana aplicará lasdirectrices pertinentes recogidas enlas"Directrices para
elnombramientodePresidentesdelosÓrganosdelaOMC"(documentoWT/L/31,defecha7defebrerode1995).
./.G/L/146
Página 2
Artículo 13
Cuando elPresidente noasista aunareunión oapartedeella,elVicepresidente
ejercerá lasfunciones delPresidente. Sinosehubiera elegido unVicepresidente o
sielVicepresidente tampoco estuviera presente, elComité deValoración enAduana
elegirá unPresidente interino paralareunión olaparte deelladequesetrate.
Artículo 14
EncasodequeelPresidentenopuedaseguirejerciendosusfunciones,elComité
deValoración enAduana encargará alVicepresidente aquesehacereferencia enel
artículo 12queejerza dichas funciones hasta queseelijaaunnuevo Presidente o,en
casodenohaberse elegido unVicepresidente, elegirá unPresidente interino atalefecto.
vi) Noesaplicable elartículo 16delcapítulo VI(Dirección delosdebates).
vii) Semodificará eltexto delartículo 33delcapítulo VII(Adopción dedecisiones), que
seráelsiguiente:
Encasodequenopueda alcanzarse unadecisión porconsenso, lacuestión debatida
seremitirá alConsejo delComercio deMercancías.
viii) Noesaplicable elartículo 34delcapítulo VII(Adopción dedecisiones).
| 255 | 3,083 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_TPR_S69-3.pdf
|
Q_WT_TPR_S69-3
|
WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 24
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE
(1) OVERVIEW
1. Peru maintains a relatively open trade regime, reflecting the wide-ranging programme of trade
liberalization undertaken in the early 1990s. Since Peru's first Trade Policy Review in 1994, the
programme has been consolidated and continued, albeit at a slower pace reflecting the shrinking
number of distortions. The average MFN tariff declined slightly, to 13.6% in 1999, while tariffdispersion remained around the same low level. Manufactured products are still subject to lower
tariffs than agricultural imports, some of which carry variable specific duties offering open-ended
restrictions. Peru has bound the vast majority of tariffs at a 30% ceiling rate; a final rate of 68% is
applied only to certain agricultural products, notably those subject to variable specific duties.
Preshipment inspection, introduced in 1992 to prevent undervaluation, is still in use but the range ofgoods covered has been reduced.
2. The use of non-tariff barriers appears limited, although Peru maintains local-content
requirements in relation to various government nutrition programmes, as well as a trade-related
investment measure in dairy. A number of provisions favour domestic suppliers in government
procurement, which is governed by a new, more transparent regulatory framework. Regional,sectoral, and social policies privilege the use of fiscal incentives, whose scope and complexity raise
concerns. Preferential credit to selected sectors is available from the national development bank,
COFIDE. Over the last six years, the use of contingency measures has been restrained; 22 dumping
investigations were initiated, resulting in seven final measures. Nine final or provisional measures
were in force in late 1999, the majority affecting exports from non-WTO members. Since 1994 twosubsidy investigations have been initiated, none resulted in the imposition of final duties.
3. Few domestic provisions directly restrict Peruvian sales abroad, although guano exports are
statutorily limited to a fraction of local production. Textile exports to the United States require a visafor statistical purposes. A number of non-tariff measures implemented in foreign markets appear to
have affected certain Peruvian exports (e.g. sanitary and phytosanitary measures). A new drawback
regime was introduced in 1995, based on a simplified refund mechanism that refunds 5% of the f.o.b.
value of the good exported regardless of the actual amount of duties paid on imported inputs.
4. Since 1994, the State has continued to withdraw from many production activities through an
ambitious privatization programme. To help ensure that consumers benefit from the liberalization
process, a comprehensive competition policy framework has been put in place, with the main
competition agency, INDECOPI, complemented by sectoral regulatory entities. Its Commission on
Technical and Trade Regulations has proven to be a valuable transparency and analysis instrument to
help prevent regulatory red-tape and backtrackin g in the liberalization programme. INDECOPI is
also charged with promoting and protecting intellectual property rights within a framework of
international, regional and national provisions. The two main domestic statutes, the IndustrialProperty Law and the Copyright Law, were enacted in 1996 to incorporate into a single domesticregulation different international provisions, including those in the TRIPS Agreement.
(2) M
EASURES DIRECTLY AFFECTING IMPORTS
(i) Procedures
(a) Documentation
5. Peru's basic import documentation and requirements have remained essentially unchanged
since its previous Trade Policy Review in 1994. All shipments require the following documents to be
presented to customs for clearance and duty payment: an import declaration; a bill of lading, postalPeru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 25
documentation or an airway bill depending on transport mode; and a commercial invoice. For goods
subject to preshipment inspection (section (b)), a verification report is required. Other documents,
such as certificates of origin, import licences or sanitary certificates may also be required for specific
goods (section (v)(a)). Customs clearance procedures may be conducted by the owner or recipient ofthe merchandise, an official broker, or a customs agent.
6. Merchandise imported under special regimes (such as temporary admission or import
regimes) is subject to additional provisions, in particular, the importer must provide a financialguarantee for the suspended taxes. Simplified or urgent clearance procedures are possible under
specific terms, including for non-commercial and perishable shipments.
1
7. Complaints on customs procedures are referred in first instance to the Customs
Administration, appeals are made to the Fiscal Tribunal.
(b) Preshipment inspection
8. The Peruvian preshipment inspection (PSI) programme, administered by the Ministry of
Economy and Finance and the Customs Superintendency, was introduced in March 1992 in an effort
to prevent undervaluation of imports. PSI covers quality, quantity, customs classification, importeligibility, and valuation for customs purposes. Three PSI companies participated in the programme
in late 1999: Bureau Véritas, Cotecna Inspection, and Société Générale. For each shipment, the
choice of the inspection company is made by the im porter. Inspection fees are negotiated between the
company and importer; a maximum fee of 1% of the f.o.b. value of inspected merchandise is set by
law.
2
9. Since March 1997, PSI has been required for goods with an f.o.b. value greater than
US$5,000, except for used vehicles, which are subject to PSI, and other used goods, for which the
minimum value for inspection is US$2,000. Since the previous Trade Policy Review of Peru, the
range of goods subject to PSI has been reduced by raising the minimum value for inspection (from
US$2,000 to US$5,000) and introducing several exemptions. Table AIII.1 lists the products
exempted from PSI, which include temporary and tax-free imports as well as various important
agricultural commodities and machinery. The value of these PSI-exempted imports, other than thosecovered by Legislative Decree Nos. 659 and Supreme Decree No. 015-97-EF, reached
US$993 million in 1998, or some 12% of total imports
3; more precise estimates of the value of all
PSI-exempted imports are not available. On the principle of presumption of truth, physical
identification is carried out on 15% of all goods, while documentary identification is made on the
remaining 85%.4
10. As part of its obligations under the WTO Agreement on Preshipment Inspection, Peru has
notified its related laws and regulations.5 Peru's experience with its PSI system has been discussed by
WTO Members within the Working Group on Preshipment Inspection, touching on issues such as
non-discrimination, transparency, confidentiality of information, delays, and appeal procedures.6
1 Customs procedures are fully detailed in two National Intendency Resolutions (No. 000984 and
No. 001059), published in the official journal, El Peruano, on 12 and 19 September 1999.
2 Supreme Decree No. 038-92-EF of 27 February 1992.
3 Estimates by the WTO Secretariat using the UNSD, Comtrade database.
4 WTO document G/PSI/WP/W/12, 6 October 1997.
5 WTO documents G/PSI/N/1/Add.3, 12 July 1996, G/PSI/N/1/Add.6, 6 June 1997, and
G/PSI/N/1/Add.7, 24 February 1998.
6 WTO documents G/PSI/WP/W/5, 13 June 1997 and G/PSI/WP/W/12, 6 October 1997.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 26
(ii) Customs valuation and rules of origin
(a) Customs valuation
11. Customs valuation is conducted by customs agents or PSI companies. Until April 2000, the
value of goods was determined using the normal market price method contained in the Brussels
Definition. The f.o.b. value, indicated in the verification report issued by the PSI company, is used inthe customs declaration and for calculating the corresponding taxes. The Peruvian Customs has final
authority to determine the customs value, tariff classification and quantity of the goods, either during
the concurrent control (physical inspection of the goods) or during subsequent control (four years ofrandom controls) of the goods.
12. The authorities indicated that minimum import prices are not used for customs valuation
purposes. To determine the customs value of recording media for data processing, since August 1999Peru has used only the cost of such media, as provided in Paragraph 2 of the Decision on the
Valuation of Carrier Media Bearing Software for Data Processing Equipment.
7
13. Peru became a contracting party to the Agreement on Implementation of Article VII of the
General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (Tokyo Round Agreement on Customs Valuation) in
April 1994, invoking paragraph 1 of Article 21 of that Agreement to delay application of its
provisions for a period of five years from the date of entry into force of the Agreement for Peru.
Under the Single Undertaking of the Uruguay Round, Peru committed to implement the Agreement
on Implementation of Article VII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (WTOAgreement on Customs Valuation). Peru was scheduled to apply the provisions of this Agreement on
1 April 1999 but requested a waiver from this obligation
8; recognizing the substantial efforts Peru had
made, WTO Members granted a waiver until 1 April 2000 under specific terms and conditions.9 In
particular, since 1 January 2000 Peru has applied the provisions of the WTO Agreement on Customs
Valuation to half of the headings in its customs tariff. Peru has notified the Council for Trade in
Goods of such headings and of progress made in fulfilling the work programme and the status of its
implementation of the Agreement.10
14. Peru has made considerable efforts to reform and modernize its customs administration and
continues to receive technical assistance to implement the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation.11
(b) Rules of origin
15. Peru applies both preferential and non-preferential rules of origin. Specific rules of origin are
applied to imports covered by trade agreements or international conventions containing these
requirements. Of particular importance for Peru are those of the Andean Community and the Latin
American Integration Association (LAIA). Peru participates in the WTO Committee on Rules of
Origin and has provided information on its practices with reference to Article 2(h) as well as
paragraph 3(d) of Annex II of the Agreement.12
16. The Andean Regime common rules of origin are defined in Decisions 416 and 417 of
30 July 1997. Andean origin is granted to products that, incorporating non-Andean raw materials,
7 Supreme Decree No. 128-99-EF, 31 July 1999; and WTO document G/VAL/N/3/PER/1,
16 September 1999.
8 WTO document G/VAL/W/31, 1 April 1999.
9 WTO document WT/L/307, 23 July 1999.
10 WTO documents G/C/W/167, 17 November 1999 and G/VAL/20, 14 January 2000.
11 See WTO document G/VAL/W/31, 1 April 1999 for details on customs reform, and Attachment 1 to
WTO document WT/L307, 23 July 1999 for details on Peru's implementation of the WTO Agreement onCustoms Valuation.
12 WTO document G/RO/W26, 25 March 1998.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 27
undergo a tariff classification change; alternatively, a value-added criterion may be used, which
requires that the c.i.f. value of non-native materials does not exceed 50% of the f.o.b. value of the
final product for exports from Colombia, Peru and Venezuela, or 60% for exports from Bolivia and
Ecuador. The value-added criterion is also applied to goods that are the product of an assembly
operation. Andean Decision 416 also established complementary rules on re-exports and direct
shipment from third countries, and reinforced the mechanism to handle disputes concerning rules of
origin. Andean Decision 417 opened the possibility of establishing special rules of origin for specific
sectors.
17. The general LAIA regime, consolidated in Resolution 252 of 4 August 1999, applies to trade
with Peru's LAIA partners although most agreements contain specific provisions. For instance, the
agreement with Chile includes specific provisions for textiles and apparel, products derived fromcopper or zinc, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and fruit preparations; while the trade agreement
with Brazil includes specific provisions for textile products.
18. Non-preferential rules of origin are applied to imports subject to anti-dumping or
countervailing duties.
13 The scheme requires a certificate of origin for all products classified under
any tariff line subject to anti-dumping or countervailing provisions. The certificate must be issued inSpanish (or an official translation must be attached) by the competent authority of the country or place
of origin, or an officially authorized organization under the administration of the country where the
certificate is issued; certificates are valid for 90 days. If the certificate is missing, incomplete or
questionable, importers are required to provide a financial guarantee equivalent to the amount of
applicable anti-dumping duties, which falls due after 60 days unless a valid certificate is presented.
The previous general rules may be complemented by the Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Integration
and International Trade Negotiations (MITINCI), through Ministerial resolutions containing specificrequirements (for instance, the content and format of certificates required for textiles under HS 52 and
55 were established by Ministerial Resolution No. 102-95-ITINCI/DM and modified by Ministerial
Resolution No. 142-96-ITINCI/DM).
(iii) Tariffs
(a) Structure
19. Peru's tariff nomenclature is based on the NANDINA, the common nomenclature of the
Andean Community countries, which is based on the Harmonized Commodity Description and
Coding System (HS). The tariff nomenclatur e was changed through Supreme Decree No.119-97-EF
of 25 September 1997 to fully incorporate, from 1 January 1998, the second amendment of the HS.
To support the diversification of Peruvian exports, several lines were added or modified by SupremeDecree No. 024-98-EF of 15 March 1998. As at August 1999, the Peruvian tariff nomenclature
consisted of 6,890 lines at the 10-digit HS level.
20. As mentioned in the Secretariat Report for Peru's previous Trade Policy Review, the tariff
structure was simplified in the early 1990s with the adoption of a two-level ad valorem tariff applied
on the c.i.f. value of imports: in June 1993, a rate of 15% was established for 86% of tariff lines and arate of 25% for the remainder. That structur e was changed through Supreme Decree No. 035-97-EF
of 13 April 1997, when the rates were reduced to 12% and 20%. Simultaneously, tariffs on some
300 agricultural products (including certain grains, meat, milk, and vegetables) were increased from
15% to 20%.
13 Supreme Decree No. 021-95-ITINCI of 5 August 1995, and Ministerial Resolutions
Nos. 102-95-ITINCI/DM and 142-96-ITINCI-CM of 12 August 1995 and 9 October 1996.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 28
21. The average applied MFN tariff is 13.6%; this average falls to 13.2% when surcharges and
variable specific duties are excluded (Table III.1). Agricultural imports are on average subject to
higher rates than manufactured products: 17.8% against 13% including all import charges, or 14.8%
against 13% if tariff surcharges and variable specific duties are excluded. Despite these charges, the
structure of the Peruvian tariff remains relatively simple; some 84% of all tariff lines are subject to a
12% duty rate.
Table III.1
Summary analysis of Peru's tariff
(Per cent)
Applied tariffs, August 1999 Tariff bindings
AnalysisNo. of
linesAvg. applied
tariffaRangeaStd-devaCVaAvg. applied
tariffBase rate
1995Final rate
2004
(%) (%) (%) (%) (%) (%)
Total 6,890 13.6 12-71 4.2 0.3 13.2 30.3 30.1
By WTO categoryb
Agriculture 897 17.8 12-71 8.4 0.5 14.8 32.5 31.1
Live animals and products thereof 94 22.8 12-30 8.8 0.4 16.8 30.0 30.0
Dairy products 34 33.7 25-52 12.8 0.4 20.0 48.6 40.1
Coffee and tea, cocoa, sugar, etc. 164 16.7 12-71 9.1 0.5 14.1 33.0 31.6
Fruit and vegetables 195 22.6 12-25 4.8 0.2 18.7 30.0 30.0
Grains 32 20.4 12-69 12.9 0.6 14.0 64.2 40.7
Beverages and spirits 49 18.4 12-25 4.8 0.3 14.4 30.0 30.0
Manufactures 5,972 13.0 12-20 2.6 0.2 13.0 30.0 30.0
Leather, rubber, footwear and travel
goods194 13.1 12-20 2.7 0.2 13.1 30.0 30.0
Textiles and clothing 953 17.6 12-20 3.7 0.2 17.6 30.0 30.0
By ISIC sectorc
Agriculture and fisheries 393 14.9 12-69 6.2 0.4 13.5 31.6 30.6
Mining 114 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
Manufacturing 6,382 13.6 12-71 4.1 0.3 13.2 30.2 30.1
By stage of processing
Raw materials 804 14.0 12-69 5.1 0.4 13.1 31.4 30.4
Semi-processed products 2,293 13.3 12-71 3.6 0.3 13.1 30.2 30.1
Fully processed products 3,793 13.7 12-52 4.4 0.3 13.3 30.2 30.1
By HS section
01 Live animals and products 270 17.8 12-52 10.0 0.6 14.4 32.3 31.3
02 Vegetable products 356 17.6 12-69 7.1 0.4 15.2 33.4 31.2
03 Fats and oils 62 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
04 Prepared foods, etc. 268 18.1 12-71 8.4 0.5 14.8 31.5 30.7
05 Minerals 186 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
06 Chemicals and products 1,343 12.0 12-17 0.1 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
07 Plastics and rubber 282 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
08 Hides and skins 82 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
09 Wood and articles 97 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
10 Pulp, paper, etc. 199 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
11 Textile and articles 939 17.6 12-20 3.6 0.2 17.6 30.0 30.0
12 Footwear, headgear 57 16.2 12-20 4.0 0.2 16.2 30.0 30.0
13 Articles of stone 163 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
14 Precious stones, etc. 56 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
15 Base metals and products 665 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
16 Machinery 1,167 12.3 12-20 1.5 0.1 12.3 30.0 30.0
17 Transport equipment 203 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
18 Precision equipment 311 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
19 Arms and munitions 25 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
20 Miscellaneous manufactures 152 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
21 Works of art, etc. 7 12.0 12-12 0.0 0.0 12.0 30.0 30.0
CV = Coefficient of variation.
a Includes surcharge, and variable specific rates; ad valorem equivalents based on August 1999 prices.
b 21 tariff lines are excluded from both WTO agriculture and manufactures definitions (essentially petroleum products).c ISIC Classification (Rev.2), excluding electricity (1 line).
Source : WTO Secretariat estimates, based on data provided by the Peruvian authorities.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 29
22. Peru grants MFN treatment to all partners. There is little evidence of tariff escalation at the
aggregate MFN level. Taking into account surcharges and variable specific duties, the average
applied tariff on raw materials is slightly higher than on fully processed products, but these aggregate
figures do not incorporate tariff concessions granted for specific activities, which could introducesome escalatory effects in specific industries (sectoral concessions are discussed in section (g)).
(b) Tariff surcharges
23. Supreme Decree No. 035-97-EF introduced, in 1997, a 5% tariff surcharge on
331 agricultural products.
14 Changes introduced later that year by Supreme Decree No. 119-EF-97
increased the number of tariff lines subject to the surcharge to 350. Supreme Decree No. 141-99-EF
of 24 August 1999 added two more lines and increased the surcharge to 10% for meat products
(56 items in HS Chapters 02 and 16). As at September 1999, 296 lines were taxed at 5% and 56 at
10%. All these items correspond to agricultural products (HS 1-24) except for one, dextrine andstarch, classified in HS Chapter 35.
24. The tariff surcharge is applied on the c.i.f. value of imports before tax. Revenue from the
surcharge is channelled to the Agricultural De velopment Fund, complementing the Fund's income
from variable specific duties. The introduction of the present surcharge system in 1997 may be seen,
at least in part, as an attempt to find alternative income sources for the Agricultural Development
Fund in the face of tightening budgets, and strong commodity prices that reduce the take fromvariable specific duties.
25. Tariff surcharges apply also to imports under pr eferential agreements; in this case the margin
of preference is applied to the sum of the base and surcharge rates.
(c) Variable specific duties
26. As described in the Secretariat Report for Peru's previous Review, variable specific duties
have been applied since 1991 to imports of several agricultural products.
15 These duties are intended
as a price stabilization and protection mechanism; they also provide a dedicated source of revenue for
the agriculture sector since the collected duties are exclusively channelled to the Agricultural
Development Fund.
27. After a number of initial modifications, the mechanism currently in force was established
through Supreme Decrees No. 114-93-EF of 28 July 1993 and No. 133-94-EF of 10 October 1994.16
Variable specific duties are based on the difference between a floor price and the f.o.b. import price.For each product, a moving average over the previous 60 months of international f.o.b. prices is
calculated and adjusted using the U.S. consumer price index. The floor price is this 60-month averageadjusted by adding a share of the standard deviation during the period. The specific duty is
determined as the difference between the floor and statutory reference prices increased by multiplying
the difference by a "margin" factor to accoun t for additional import costs (e.g. transport and
insurance).
28. The mechanism of variable specific duties currently applies to 23 tariff items in five product
groups: milk, maize, sorghum, rice, and sugar; the mechanism was eliminated for wheat products in
14 A temporary surcharge applied on a reduced list of agricultural products was first introduced in 1993.
15 GATT (1994).
16 The hesitant start of the mechanism is reflected by the number of different regulations - 9 Supreme
Decrees, 5 Decree Laws and 2 Ministerial Resolution - adopted between March 1991 and December 1992(Boloña and Illescas (1997), pp. 89-102).WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 30
August 1998.17 The same variable duties are applied to maize and sorghum (based on maize prices)
despite the differences in price levels and variations. Chart III.1 shows reference and floor prices
together with estimated ad valorem equivalents for variable specific duties over 1993-99 for dairy
products, maize, rice, sugar and wheat.
29. For all of these products, there have been long periods since 1994 when the mechanism
resulted in no variable specific duties due to the relatively high levels of world commodity prices.During those periods, the mechanism neither dampened price upturns nor resulted in direct fiscal
revenue for the sector. As mentioned, the latter may help explain the decision to establish the tariff
surcharge and allocate the associated revenue to the Agricultural Development Fund rather than
simply to raise the base tariff rates (in which case revenues would have gone into consolidated fiscal
revenue). Nevertheless, variable specific duties seem to have been effective in reducing variability indomestic prices relative to those observed in world markets, particularly for dairy products and sugar.
30. Recent decreasing international commodity prices have reactivated the tax-collection aspect
of the variable specific duty mechanism, and in certain cases have afforded considerable protection to
Peruvian producers through relatively high tariffs. WTO Secretariat estimates of ad valorem
equivalents for 1999 (based on August 1999 prices), are: 6% for rice, 21% for maize, 27% for milk,and 54% for sugar.
18
(d) Bindings
31. Peru bound all tariff items at a ceiling rate of 30%, with the exception of a few agricultural
items bound at a final rate of 68% (Table III.2). Applied rates appear to be below bound levels for all
items; however, the wide margin between applied and bound rates, as well as variable specific duties
undermine the predictability of Peru's commitments. Variable duties, in particular, are subject to the
effect of exogenous fluctuation in commodities price, which could automatically increase appliedtariffs beyond Peru's maximum tariff commitments. For instance, according to the latest figures
available from the Central Bank, from 24 to 30 January 2000 the average international price of sugar
was US$120 per tonne while the variable specific duty amounted to US$171 per tonne.
19 However, in
the context of this review the authorities stat ed that Peru invariably takes into account its
commitments with respect to tariff bindings.
(e) Preferential tariffs
32. Preferential tariff concessions are granted to imports from the Andean Community and the
Latin American Integration Association. In 1998, tari ff preferences applied to just under one quarter
of all Peruvian imports (Chapter II(4)(ii)).
33. Tariff concessions in the context of the Global System of Trade Preferences are marginal.
The Peruvian authorities indicated that the second round of negotiations, completed in
November 1998, resulted in a unique bilateral agreement with Thailand. Concessions covered a
limited set of products (58 items), and the margin of preference granted ranged from 6% to 20%.
17 Variable specific duties are collected on the following HS items: milk (0402.10, 0402.21,
0405.90.10, 0405.90.90); maize (1005.90.11, 1005.90.12, 1005.90.90); rice (1006.10.90, 1006.20.00,
1006.30.00, 1006.40.00); sorghum (1007.00.90); and sugar (1701.11.90, 1701.12.00, 1701.99.00.90).
18 These estimates, based on price differences, differ slightly from the estimates provided by the
authorities, which are based on the average value of imports for August 1999 (5% for rice, 21% for maize, 34%for sugar, and 39% for milk).
19 Banco Central de Reserva del Perú (2000).Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 31
0306090120150180210240270300
0102030405060708090100
0255075100125150175200225250
0102030405060708090100
04080120160200240280320360400
0102030405060708090100
050100150200250300350400450500
0102030405060708090100
6008001,0001,2001,4001,6001,8002,0002,2002,4002,600
0102030405060708090100Chart III.1
Variable specific duties: AVEs and prices, August 1993 - August 1999
US$/T % US$/T % US$/T %
MilkbWheat aMaize Rice
a Variable duties eliminated in August 1998.
b Variable duties established in October 1994.c Measured by the coefficient of variation over the period.
Source : WTO Secretariat estimates, based on monthly price data provided by the Peruvian authorities.SugarUS$/T %U S $ / T % 94 95 96 97 98 99 94 95 96 97 98 99 94 95 96 97 98 99
94 95 96 97 98 99 94 95 96 97 98 99Reference price
(US$ per tonne;
Left-hand scale)
Floor price
(US$ per tonne; Left-hand scale)
Ad valorem equivalent
to variable specific rate
(per cent;
Right-hand scale)
Price variabilityc
Commodity Wheat
Maize
RiceSugar
Milk Domestic
reference
price
15.6
19.612.7
11.9
6.7World
reference
price
18.8
22.515.8
20.1
12.0WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 32
Table III.2
Peru's tariff items bound at rates other than 30% and their applied rates, August 1999
Bound rates
HS Code 1998 Description Applied ratea
CurrentbBase Finalc
0402.10.10.00, 0402.10.90.00,
0402.21.11.00, 0402.21.19.00,
0402.21.91.00, 0402.21.99.00Milk 52 84 97 68
0405.90.10.00 Dehydrated butter 52 101 128 68
1001.90.10.00 Wheat for sowing 12 88 105 68
1001.90.20.00 Other wheat 25 88 105 68
1005.90.11.00, 1005.90.90.90 Maize 38 108 141 68
1006.10.90.00, 1006.20.00.00,
1006.30.00.00, 1006.40.00.00Rice 31 133 185 68
1007.00.90.00 Sorghum except for sowing 68 103 131 68
1101.00.00.00 Wheat flour 25 75 81 68
1103.11.00.00 Boiled grains and groats of wheat 25 75 81 68
1701.11.90.00, 1701.12.00.00,
1701.99.00.90Sugar 71 102 130 68
1902.11.00.00, 1902.19.00.00 Food pastas 25 72 76 68
a Including AVE of specific variable duties.
b Estimate based on a linear phasing out.c To be applied by 2004.
Source : WTO Secretariat.
(f) Concessional import regimes
34. The temporary admission regime allows the entry, with suspension of import duties and other
applicable taxes, of certain goods to be re-exported within a determined period after transformation orprocessing. The temporary import regime contains similar provisions but applies to merchandise to
be re-exported without transformation. The authorities noted that since Peru's previous Review both
regimes have been simplified and made more efficient, in particular through the establishment of an
automatic approval procedure for temporary admissions and the reduction of red tape in the restitution
of guarantees.
20
35. In 1998, about 10% of total imports were admitted under the temporary admission and import
regimes: the total c.i.f. value of goods temporarily admitted was US$343.9 million while temporary
imports amounted to US$552.8 million. Over two thirds of these concessional entries related to the
mining industry.
36. The stock replacement regime was also modified by the new customs regulations, although
additional constrains were introduced. This regime allows the entry, with the suspension of all import
and domestic taxes, of inputs equivalent to those previously imported and incorporated in exportedgoods. New requirements under the regime include that replacement should take place within the
one-year period following the date of export.
(g) Concessions
37. Donations made to public sector entities (with the exception of public enterprises) are
exempted from import duties as are donations to religious entitities and foundations established for
20 New provisions are included in Legislative Decree No. 809 of 19 April 1996, and in Supreme
Decree Nos. 121-96-EF and 122-96-EF of 24 December 1996.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 33
educational, scientific, social or medical aid purposes. Imports of goods donated to religious or public
entities, or financed with donated funds and as signed to technical cooperation projects, are also
exempted from the general sales tax and the selective consumption tax.
38. Import duties are applied on only 50% of the f.o.b. value of medical samples; other samples
are exempted from import duties provided they ha ve no commercial value. Fiscal exoneration is
granted under specific conditions on imports of vehicles and prostheses for handicapped persons; andon imports by officials of the diplomatic corps and international organizations. Under specific
conditions, recognized educational entities are exonerated from domestic and import duties on imports
of goods for educational purposes (595 items in December 1999).
39. Import of goods for exploration activities in the hydrocarbons sector (256 tariff items mainly
in HS Chapters 28, 38, 84 and 85) are exempted from all import duties and domestic taxes for amaximum period of seven years. The payment of import duties and domestic taxes for several goods
imported for agricultural activities is under the responsibility of the Ministry of Finance (75 tariff
items, mainly fertilizers and chemical products).
40. In addition to concessional import regimes and the drawback system (section (3)(iv)), import
duties on capital goods may be paid over three years at an interest rate equal to the passive rate forforeign currency (Supreme Decree No. 182-98-EF of 31 December 1998).
(iv) Other charges affecting imports
41. In addition to import duties, and anti-dumping and countervailing duties (section (vi)(a)),
imports are subject to charges for customs procedures (customs clearance, cargo handling, laboratory
analysis, and inspection fees), the selective consumption tax (ISC), the general sales tax (IGV), and
the municipal promotion tax.
42. Charges for customs clearance amount to 0.6668% of the UIT (fiscal unit) for imports under
the general regime, or half this amount for imports under the simplified regime.
21 Handling fees on
international air cargo remain twice as high as th ose on national air shipments. Inspection fees are
discussed in section (i)(b).
43. Domestic taxes seem to be levied equally on national and foreign products and without
differentiating imports by origin. The authorities noted that preferential concessions concernexclusively import duties; no domestic tax concessions are granted through preferential agreements.
Sectoral and regional tax incentives are discussed in section (4)(iv).
44. The selective consumption tax is levied on: the domestic sale and importation of hydrocarbon
products, cigarettes, beverages, and vehicles; and on gambling and bets, such as lotteries, bingo,
raffles, slot machines and other electronic machines, casinos, and horse races (Table AIII.2).Cigarettes, hydrocarbon products and slots machines are taxed at specific rates while all other
products are taxed at ad valorem rates ranging from 2% to 55% of the c.i.f. value (for imported goods)
or of the sale value (for domestic goods).
45. The manner in which the ISC is imposed on vehicles may raise questions about national
treatment: imports of new vehicles are taxed at 30% whereas used vehicles are taxed at 55% unlessthey have been reconditioned or repaired in a CETICOS trade and industrial processing zone, in
which case they are exempted from the ISC. As discussed in section (4)(iii), this has became a
substantial incentive for vehicle reconditioning and repair activities in the CETICOS.
21 As at August 1999, the UIT was equivalent to S/. 2,800.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 34
46. The general sales tax applies to the importation or domestic sale of goods; the domestic
rendering or use of services; construction contracts; and the sale of real estate by constructors or
their associates. The IGV is collected at a rate of 18% (including the 2% municipal promotion tax);
on imports it is levied on the sum of the c.i.f. value plus paid tariff and ISC. The IGV is not levied on
exports of goods and services, and numerous domestic activities are exempt (Tables AIII.3 and
Table AIII.4).
47. The structure of charges affecting the importation of three illustrative products is reported in
Table III.3; the ad valorem equivalent of all charges and taxes affecting imports can be relatively
high, ranging in the examples provided from 38% for steel products to 83% for new vehicles.
Table III.3
Structure of charges on imports of selected products in Peru, August 1999(US$ and per cent)
Description MaizeFlat-rolled products of
iron or non-alloy steelCars
% Value % Value % Value
F.o.b. value 100.00 100.00 100.00
Freight (approximately) 10 10.00 10 10.00 10 10.00
Insurance (approximately) 5 5.00 5 5.00 5 5.00
C.i.f. value 15 115.00 15 115.00 15 115.00
Import duty (calculated on c.i.f. value) 12 13.80 12 13.80 12 13.80
Variable import levya 21 24.15 n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.
Tariff surcharge 5 5.80 n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.
Inspection fees (calculated on the f.o.b. value) n.a. n.a. 0.80 0.80 0.65 0.70
Laboratory analysis fees or similar chargesb n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.
Cargo handling charges by ENAPU (US$ per kg.) 0.01 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.01 0.00
Final value of import 158.75 129.60 129.45
ISC (calculated on c.i.f. value plus import duties) n.a n.a n.a n.a 30 38.64
IGV and IPM (calculated on c.i.f. value plus import
duties and levies plus the ISC) 1828.57
1823.18
18 30.14
Wholesale cost in Peru 187.32 152.78 198.23
n.a. Not applicable.
a Estimated ad valorem incidence of specific levy based on average value of monthly imports for August 1999.
b The selected products do not require laboratory tests or others.
Source: Information provided by the Peruvian authorities.
(v) Import prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing
(a) Import prohibitions and restrictions
48. The list of prohibited imports is relatively short (Table AIII.5). In most cases, prohibition is
motivated by health and environmental protection considerations, the only exceptions are theprohibition on geographical texts or mappings that mutilate national territory (national identity) and
on foreign alcoholic beverages bearing the name Pisco (protected denomination of origin).
49. Imports of products on the restricted lists generally require an authorization from the relevant
ministry (Table AIII.6). Some substances on the list should be registered within the sanitary
authorities; this gives exclusive import rights to the holder of the respective sanitary certificate. In
order to control narcotics, the State has a monopoly on narcotics trade.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 35
(b) Import licensing
50. The authorities have notified that no administrative procedures relating to import licencing
exist in Peru.22
(vi) Contingency measures
(a) Dumping and subsidies remedies
51. As part of the Final Act of the Uruguay Round, the Agreement on Implementation
of Article VI of the GATT 1994 and the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measuresbecame part of the national law of Peru on 1 January of 1995. Regulations implementing the rules
laid down in both Agreements were establishe d by Supreme Decree No. 043-97-EF of 29 April 1997.
Peru participates actively in the Committees on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures, and
Anti-Dumping Practices (including its Ad Hoc Group on Implementation); as a result, the Peruvian
legislation has been notified and submitted for Members' scrutiny.
23 Former trade remedy regulations
(Supreme Decree Nos. 133-91-EF and 052-92-EF) are still in force and are applied to non-WTO
members.
52. INDECOPI's Dumping and Subsidies Commission (C FDS) is the administrative authority of
first instance with powers to initiate and resolve proceedings concerning dumped or subsidized
imports. Responsibility for interpreting and applying decisions in second and final administrative
instance lies with INDECOPI's Tribunal, whose decisions are may be appealed directly in Peru'sSupreme Court.
53. From October 1994 to December 1999, two investigations were initiated against subsidy
practices, involving sweets from Argentina and transport vehicles from Brazil. The first resulted in
the imposition of provisional and final duties from January to December 1995. The Peruvian
authorities indicated that after the decision was taken the Government of Argentina agreed toeliminate the subsidy. In the case of transport vehicles from Brazil, the Commission concluded the
existence of an export subsidy, however no countervailing measure was undertaken since the amount
of the subsidy was found to be minimal (Table III.4).
54. From October 1994 to December 1999, the CFDS initiated 22 dumping investigations, of
which nine resulted in provisional duties and seven in final duties. The majority of cases concerneddumped imports from non-WTO members, in particular China. The type of products involved varies
widely and includes agricultural products, clothing and footwear, steel products, and mechanical
instruments (Table III.4).
55. Virtually all final anti-dumping measures adopted since 1995 were still in force in
December 1999 (the duties imposed in 1997 on Brazilian calcium carbide, were suspended inDecember 1998, and in February 1999 the CFDS initiated the review of anti-dumping duties in force
since March 1997 on six footwear items from China). The Peruvian authorities stated that because of
the difficulty in identifying and contacting specific producers, and the lack of cooperation from the
exporters' government authorities, Peru's anti-dumping actions undertaken against non-WTO
members apply to all producers in the targeted country. In contrast, as a result of stricter WTOdisciplines, actions against WTO Members must target specific producers.
22 WTO document G/LIC/N/3/PER/2, 19 January 1999.
23 Peru's notification of its laws are reported in WTO documents: G/ADP/N/1/PER/1 and its
Supplements 1 and 2 (29 March 1995, 5 June 1996, and 28 August 1997); subsequent questions and replies canbe found in: G/ADP/W/83 (17 October 1995), G/ADP/W/120 (19 October 1995), G/ADP/W/245(8 January 1996), G/ADP/W/258 and G/ADP/W/259 (29 January 1996), G/ADP/W/394 (7 May 1996), andG/ADP/Q1/PER/1 to 12 (October 1996 to September 1998).WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 36
Table III.4
Anti-dumping and countervailing actions taken by Peru, January 1995-December 1999
Provisional Final decisionCountry ProductsDate of
initiation Date/dutyMarket
shareaBasis of determination
Anti-dumping
China Textiles (cotton, mixed, synthetics)
seven items in HS 52, 54 and 5516.10.94 14.05.95
10% (1 item)02.08.95
10% to 50.97% (5 items)
No injury (2 items)3.37 Average import prices
supplied by the Boardof CartagenaAgreement (JUNAC)
Korea, Rep.ofTyres for lorries, sizes:
1,200-20 (16 pr)
1,200-20 (18 pr)17.06.95 No 10.05.96
No dumping
No injury28.80 Home and third
markets (Syria andEcuador) prices
China Water meters (9028.20.20.00)
(Sizes: ½", ¾" and 1")23.08.95 No 24.11.95
30.00% to 122.21%351.05 Prices charged to other
producers in third
countries
China Clothing:
35 tariff items in HS 61 and 6211.03.96 15.04.96
10.63% to
910.91%16.03.97
No injuryn.a. Average import prices
supplied by JUNAC
China bFootwear 11.03.96 15.04.96
10.82% to
903.92%(on 4 items)16.03.97
10.82% to 903.92%
(15 items)n.a. Export price to third
country (USA)
Chile Woven labels
5807.10.00.0018.04.96 20.12.96
161.97%23.04.97
55.77%57.94 Export price to third
country (Brazil)
Mexico Maize subproducts:
1108.12.00.00 (maize starch)
1702.30.20.00 (glucose syrup)10.05.96 24.08.96
9.51%
14.68%21.12.96
9.51%
19.739%26.01
22.46Home market price
China Single-phase electric meters 11.10.96 No 30.11.96
No injury
Brazil cCalcium carbide 17.11.96 07.05.97
65%14.08.99
No injuryHome market price
China Single-phase electric motors 22.02.97 No 05.06.97
No injury
Netherlands Evaporated milk with no added
sugar or other sweetening matter24.08.97 No 30.08.98
No injury
Colombia Synthetic staple fibres, not carded,
combed or otherwise processed for
spinning, of polyester24.10.97 No 13.12.97
Case withdrawn
Argentina Calcium carbide 25.02.98 No 05.02.99
Dumping margin
de minimis
China Electric meters (9028.20.10.00)
Wuxi brand
Holley brand09.02.98 13.08.98
36.66%
10.96%20.02.99
37.89% on all imports
from China34.46 Prices charged to
other producers inthird countries
Chile Uncooked pasta 07.03.98 No 20.03.99
No injury
Russia Steel products (HS 72):
Hot-rolled coil and plate, thin
Hot-rolled coil and plate, thick
Cold-rolled coil and plate05.02.99 07.02.99
20.4%
15.8%
13.3%08.12.99
11 items
21.49%64.7 Reconstructed value
in third country
(Brazil)
Ukraine Steel products (HS 72):
Hot-rolled coil and plate, thin
Hot-rolled coil and plate, thick
Cold-rolled coil and plate08.02.99 07.02.99
18.8%
13.7%
15.2%Pending 4.4 United States market
price
China Footwear (8 items: 3 initiations,
5 revisions)11.02.99 No Pending
Chinese
TaipeiFootwear (HS 64):
8 items11.02.99 12.05.99
Range:
11.11% to900.00%Pending .. Third-country export
price
Table III.4 (cont'd)Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 37
Provisional Final decisionCountry ProductsDate of
initiation Date/dutyMarket
shareaBasis of determination
Lithuania Single-phase electric meters 27.02.99 No Pending
China Body and kick board 23.09.99 14.10.99
65.3% to
223.5%Pending .. Third country
domestic and exportcountry (USA)
Chinese
TaipeiBody boards 23.09.99 14.10.99
734.5%Pending .. Third country
domestic and export
country (USA)
Countervailing measures
Argentina Sweets 11.12.94 5.1.95
No27.10.95
14.27%, 8.10% and0.0%.. ..
Brazil Vehicles 14.12.97 No Prohibited subsidy
Amount of subsidyde minimisBrazilian Government
information
.. Not available.
a Dumped imports as % of domestic consumption (usually based on preceding year).
b Four items were investigated but duties were eventually applied to 15 items.
c The decision imposing duties was annulled by Resolution 304-98/TDC-INDECOPI of 13 December 1998, calculation of a new
dumping margin is pending.
Source : Semi-annual reports by Peru to the Committee on Anti-Dumping Practices (WTO documents G/ADP/N), and
information provided by the authorities.
56. In December 1999, 36 items were subject to final ad valorem anti-dumping duties and
22 items to provisional levies, ranging from 11% to 900% of the f.o.b. value of imports. In addition,following Andean Resolution No. 242 of 24 June of 1999, specific anti-dumping duties are in force
for a three-year period on imports of steel products (four items) from Ukraine and Russia at rates of
US$40 or US$50 per tonne.
57. Within the Andean Community, three investigations have been requested by Peruvian
producers since 1995: two have been rejected and a final decision was still pending in the third case(imports of plastic bags from Bolivia) in September 1999.
(b) Safeguards
58. At the multilateral level, Peru's safeguards mechanism is governed by the WTO Agreement
on Safeguards, in force since January 1995. No safeguards actions have been taken at this level. Theregulatory measures to facilitate implementation of the Agreement were established by Supreme
Decree No. 020-98-ITINCI of 19 December 1998.
24 Peru reserved its right to use the transitional
safeguards provisions of Article 6 of the Agreement on Textiles and Clothing.25 In September 1999,
Peru initiated an investigation against Russia and Ukraine for hot and cold rolled steel; final
resolution is pending.
59. The authority responsible for applying safeguard measures is a multi-sectoral commission
comprising the Minister of Economy and Finance, th e Minister of Industry, Tourism, Integration and
International Trade Negotiations, and the minister of the sector concerned with the measure.
Investigations are conducted by INDECOPI's Dumping and Subsidies Commission. Decisions taken
by the multi-sectoral commission must be made official by Ministerial Resolution of the MITINCI.
60. In the context of preferential trade agreements, no actions have been taken over the last six
years within the Andean Community, but Peru maintains safeguard measures against several
24 Notifications of laws can be found in WTO documents G/SG/N1/PER/1, 29 March 1995, and
G/SG/N1/PER/2, 22 January 1999.
25 WTO document G/TMB/N/30, 6 March 1995.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 38
agricultural imports from its LAIA partners. Thus, from 1994 to 1996 only 65% of the preferential
margin was applied to certain imports from Argentina (powdered milk, wheat and soya oil), Chile
(grapes, pears and apples) and Uruguay (rice). These provisions were reinforced in 1996 by a full
suspension of preferential treatment for powdered milk, wheat and rice. In 1997, safeguard measures
on soya oil were removed, as were all safeguard measures applied on grapes, pears and apples
following the Economic Complementary Agreement signed with Chile.
(vii) Regulations, standards and other technical requirements
(a) Regulation review
61. The INDECOPI Commission on Technical and Tr ade Regulations has three main functions:
to approve technical standards and mandatory regulati ons for legal metrology; to qualify and certify
companies and institutions issuing quality certificates; and to give an opinion on the imposition byany entity of the Public Administration, of regulations that may result in trade restrictions. In relation
to the latter, the Commission acts as a review entity to examine whether any non-tariff trade barriers
introduced by other public agencies may be justified. The Commission may initiate suchinvestigations on its own authority, or as a result of a complaint.
62. The review mandate of the Commission on Technical and Trade Regulations appears to be
a valuable transparency and analysis instrument to help prevent regulatory red-tape and sectoral
interests from undermining the benefits of overall liberalization. The Commission has competency to
pronounce upon the non-applicability of administrative measures that infringe on the principleof freedom to trade included in Legislative Decree No. 668. However, the authority originally
assigned to the Commission was weakened by Legi slative Decree No. 807 of 18 April 1996, which no
longer allows the Commission to suspend or decl are the non-applicability of non-tariff measures when
these are introduced through Supreme Decrees or Mi nisterial Resolutions. According to the new
regulations, in these cases the Commission is restricted to sending its findings as a special report tothe Presidency of the Council of Ministers.
63. Of the 26 procedures initiated since 1993 by the Commission on Technical and Trade
Regulations the majority concerned measures undertaken by the Ministry of Agriculture; some werefound to be non-tariff barriers (Table III.5). Coinciding with the limitation imposed on its
competencies, the Commission's review activities have fallen sharply since 1996: only two cases
were investigated in 1997, and these were archived, and two cases are pending for 1998 and 1999.
(b) Standards, testing, and certification
64. In June 1995, Peru accepted the Code of Good Practice for the preparation, adoption and
application of standards. The enquiry point foreseen in Articles 10.1 and 10.3 of the Agreement on
Technical Barriers to Trade is the Commission on Technical and Trade Regulations. Technical
standards and metrology regulations are prepared, under the supervision of the Commission, by
technical committees; these generally consist of producers, consumers, and experts in the sectorsconcerned. The authorities indicated that the elaboration process relies on a technical and legalframework based on ISO/IEC Guides and Directives.
65. Approved standards are voluntary in nature, but may be made mandatory on a contractual
basis by agreement between the parties involved or through a technical regulation issued by a state
entity. A legislative proposal to harmonize the periods allowed for issuing technical standards is
being coordinated between INDECOPI, MITINCI and the Ministry of External Relations. The rulesfor the elaboration of standards allow private or public-sector agents to request the approval of
standards in emergency situations. To date, these provisions have not been applied.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 39
Table III.5
Reviews by the Commission on Technical and Trade Regulations of potential non-tariff restrictions, 1993-99
Number Procedure Object of the claim First instance result
001-CNM-P CARTOPEL S.A. of Ecuador
against CustomsCustoms resolution reclassifying the
imported product, which resulted ina different applied tariffUnfounded claim
002-CNM-P Association of gas bottlers against
Ministry of Mining and EnergyLabelling obligation Inappropriate claim.
003-CNM-P Textile Committee of SNI against
Ministry of AgricultureFumigation in vacuum rooms
required for imported cottonFound to be a non-tariff barrier and
thus non-applicable
004-CNM-P Self-initiation against Agriculture Double requirement of sanitary
certificateFound to be a non-applicable
requirement
005-CNM-P Self-initiation Decree prohibiting the circulation of
texts that mutilate the nationalterritoryFound to be a non-applicable Decree
006-CNM-P Refrigerating firm San Hilarión
against AgricultureFees collected by SENASA for
fictive sanitary inspection servicesOrder for not collecting the fee as a
pre-requirement for inspection
007-CNM-P Self-initiation against Ministry of
AgricultureMinisterial Resolution of 1994
prohibiting imports of citrus fruitfrom Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil,Ecuador, Paraguay and UruguayProcedure archived in 1999
(following the establishment of amechanism allowing imports of safecitrus fruit)
008-CNM-P National Press firm against
AgricultureRequirement of sanitary inspection
for imports of manufactured paper
and pasteboardFound to be a non-tariff barrier and
thus non-applicable (overruled in
second instance)
009-CNM-P Self-initiation Import prohibition of radioactive
products for medical useSuspension of the prohibition
010-CNM-P Self-initiation against Ministry of
AgricultureTemporary import prohibition on
potatoes from Colombia and
EcuadorQualified as non-tariff barrier
011-CNM-P Self-initiation against Ministry of
AgricultureImport prohibition of aggressive
bees, establishing differentiated
treatment between importers andnational producersQualified as non-tariff barrier
012-CNM-P Self-initiation against Ministry of
AgricultureImport prohibition on garlic and
onions from Chile and ArgentinaQualified as non-tariff barrier
013-CNM-P to
017-CNM-PBella Holandesa del Perú S.A.,
New Zealand Milk Products,
Polanco Carnes S.A. and
Assotiation of Food ProductsImporters against AgricultureMinisterial Resolution increasing
substantially the fee collected forsanitary inspectionSuspension of the Resolution (all
procedures were archived since the
disputed Resolution was derogated
in 1995)
018-CNM-P,019-CNM-PTextile and Wheat Mills
Committees of the SNIAdministrative procedures within
SENASA as pre-requisite to importQualified as non-tariff barrier
020-96-CRT-P CLEMENTS Peruana S.A. against
Fiscal Administration (SUNAT)Discriminatory measures in the
calculation of the basis for theselective competition taxUnfounded claim
021-96-CRT-P LORET DE MOLA S.A. against
CustomsSuspension of preferential tariffs Inappropriate claim
022-96-CRT-P LARIO S.A. against SENASA
and CustomsImport of some sausages from Italy
prohibited for sanitary reasonsClaimant desisted
001-97-CRT-P IMACO against Customs Application of import requirements
included in a 1984 Decree which,
according to the claimant, wasderogatedProcedure archived
002-97-CRT-P Self-initiation against Ministry of
HealthEstablishment of an official sanitary
certification for exports of food anddrinks for human consumptionProcedure archived
001-98-CRT-P Self-initiation Suspension of rice imports from all
countries affected by the "GorgojoKhapra"Pending
001-99-CRT-P Exporters Association (ADEX) Export prohibition on unprocessed
Cat's Claw except from determined
zonesFounded claim. Technical report
send to the President of Ministries
Council
Source : Information provided by the Peruvian authorities.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 40
66. INDECOPI's current system defines 303 Peruvian standards, of which 30% correspond to
international standards (mainly ISO), and nine metr ology standards. When international standards do
not reflect the Peruvian situation (for instance in terms of technological development), approved
standards are based on regional or third-country practices.
67. In addition to voluntary standards, 36 mandatory technical regulations were approved through
Ministerial Resolution No. 084-91-ICTI/IND (18 March 1991). These regulations included technicalrequirements for products such as cement, hydrocarbons, or explosives, and marking and labelling
regulations for the safe handling and use of products. Some of these regulations have been replaced
by standards approved by the INDECOPI, which remain mandatory.
68. Some 200 other mandatory provisions have also been established to regulate sectoral
activities in areas such as agriculture, defence, fishing, health, manufacturing, mining,telecommunications, and transport. It is not clear whether these regulations might represent
unjustified barriers to trade. However, any of these regulations may be subject to scrutiny by the
Commission of Technical and Trade Regulations to determine their potential to create non-tariff
barriers. Indeed, as mentioned earlier some have been qualified as such.
69. The Commission is responsible for accrediting testing laboratories and inspection and
certification organisms. The authorities stated that accreditation is based on international guides and
recommendations provided by the CASCO Committee of the ISO. No mutual recognition agreement
has been signed to date in this area.
70. In general, quality controls are made at the level of domestic distribution rather than at the
border, except for plant and animal products, which are subject to sanitary and phytosanitarymeasures at the point of entry.
(c) Marking, labelling and packaging
71. Metrology Standard NMP 001:1995 of 5 July 1995 (equivalent to OIML standard R79) is
generally applied to pre-packaged food. In addition, Legislative Decree No. 716 of 18 April 1996 on
consumer protection established that the information attached to imported manufactured
products (including warnings and guaranty conditions) should be in Spanish. For health and securityreasons, specific marking and labelling regulations are applied to food products (Supreme Decree
No. 007-98-SA), pharmaceutical products (Supreme Decree No. 010-97-SA), and insecticides
(Supreme Decree No. 15-95-AG). Sectoral regulatio ns mentioned earlier include several mandatory
norms on specific product packaging and labelling, for instance for dried fruit and alcoholic
beverages.
(d) Sanitary and phytosanitary regulations
72. The competent authorities for sanitary, phytosanitary and health regulations are the Ministry
of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health, although responsibility for the administration of those
regulations is shared with other government agencies (in particular the Ministry of Fishing and
municipalities). Unlike standards approved by the INDECOPI, sanitary regulations are mandatory.
73. Since 1994, the National Health Institute has adopted international standards (issued by
Codex, AOAC, U.S. FDA and ICMES) for the establis hment of food quality certificates; FAO and
WHO recommendations are used for nu tritional valuations. With respect to sanitary supervision and
control of food and beverages, national regulations have been harmonized with international standards
(Codex Alimentarius guidelines and recomm endations) through Supreme Decree No. 007-98-SA
(25 September 1998). As indicated by the authorities, these measures should facilitate the negotiation
of equivalence agreements with Peru's main export partners.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 41
74. Imports and exports of plant and animal products and sub-products are regulated by
Supreme Decree No. 016-76-AL (28 October 1976) and the following subsequent regulations:
Ministerial Resolution Nos. 009-91-AG (11 March 1991), 210-91-AG (4 April 1991), 259-91-AG
(22 April1991), 283-96-AG (1 April 1996), 399-99-AG (24 May 1999); and Supreme Decree
No. 004-93-AG (1 March 1993). Products subject to phytosanitary and zoo-sanitary requirements are
reported in Table AIII.7.
75. Resolution No. 0399-99-AG introduced differential treatment for plant and animal products
entering Peru by land, requiring that all such products be accompanied by sanitary and phytosanitary
certificates issued in the country of origin. Importe d wheat flour must be fortified with 30 mg. of iron
per kg. for public health reasons (Supreme Decree No. 004-96-SA, 26 August 1996).
76. Emergency sanitary and phytosanitary provisions may be adopted by the Ministry of
Agriculture to suspend the entry of products that threaten Peru's sanitary and phytosanitary conditions.
As of October 1999, 20 emergency provisions ad opted by the SENASA (the agricultural sanitary
authority) were in force. As discussed above, some of these measures were submitted to scrutiny by
the Commission on Technical and Trade Regulations , which found that some of them appeared to
constituted non-tariff measures (Table III.5).
77. With respect to animal health, Peru has agreed sanitary protocols with some trading partners
to facilitate the export of specific live animals or derived products. In addition, the authorities noted
that mutual recognition agreements with the Europ ean Union recognize the safety certification for fish
products made by the Ministry of Health.
78. The importation of pharmaceutical and medical products is regulated by Law No. 26842 of
20 July 1997 (the general health law) and Supreme Decree No. 010-97-SA of 24 December 1997 (the
regulation for sanitary registry).
79. Sanitary registry is not required for donated food, drinks and medicaments, but sanitary
requirements are maintained for donated wheat flour and used clothing.
(viii) Government procurement
80. Since Peru's first Review in 1994, new legislation has been adopted consolidating the legal
framework for, and enhancing the transparency of government procurement procedures. However,
the recent introduction of several provisions cause those procedures to depart from the principle of
national treatment by according preferences to national suppliers. Peru is not a member of the WTO
plurilateral Agreement on Government Procurement.
81. There are no detailed statistics on government procurement although the creation of the
CONSUCODE (superior council for government proc urement) should contribute to the building up of
a database as public entities are now required to communicate to the Council detailed information on
bids and awards procedures. According to public finance figures, total government purchases of
goods and services amounted to some US$4.6 billion in 1997, representing 7% of GDP (of which
US$1.6 billion was spend by the Central Government, US$2 billion by non-financial public firms, andUS$1 billion by other public entities). Government purchases have remained relatively constant over
the decade (they amounted to some 7.8% of GDP in 1991), despite the comprehensive privatization
programme implemented over the period.
82. The general legal framework regulating government procurement of goods and
services encompasses Article 76 of the Constitution; Law No. 27209 of 3 December 1999 (the state
budget management law); Law No. 27212 of 3 Decembe r 1999 (the public sector budget law); Law
No. 26850 of 9 July 1997 (the state procurement law) and its subsequent regulations andWT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 42
modifications; Supreme Decree No. 047-98-PCM of 28 September 1998 (the regulation of the
superior council for government procurement); and Ministerial Resolution No. 043-99-PCM of
1 May 1999 (the regulation of the national registry of contractors and the registry of disqualified
contractors) and its subsequent modifications.
83. Article 76 of the Constitution stipulates that the construction and acquisition of supplies from
public funds or resources and the acquisition or alienation of property must be carried out by contractand public tender. Contracts for services and projects whose importance and amount are specified in
the Budget Law are made by public tender. In general, purchases by public entities of the Central
Government are decentralized, with each such entity establishing a annual plan for purchases and
contractual agreements (Law No. 26850, Article 7).
84. Suppliers of public works must be registered in the national registry of contractors and must
not appear in the registry of disqualified contractors. The latter condition is also required for suppliers
of goods and services. The two registries are administrated by the CONSUCODE, whose
responsibilities include the resolution of disputes occurring during the selection process, from the
public tender to the awarding decision.
85. Government procurement of goods and services are made through public tender or, within the
limits set in the annual budget law, through direct acquisition.
26 The public tender requirement can be
side-stepped under specific circumstances, such as when procurement occurs in emergency situations,
between public entities, or under military secrecy.27
86. Bids should be published at least 20 days before their deadline in the Peruvian Official
Journal, and in a national and a local newspaper. Bid specifications, including technical and
commercial requirements should be clearly established and approved by the contracting entity. The
award selection relies on technical and economic valuation. To promote domestic industry, a 10%
preference on the total valuation is given to domestic goods (Law No. 27143 of 28 May 1999 on the
temporary promotion of national production).
87. Other norms regulating specific public purchases and contractual agreements provide
preferential treatment to national production. Law No. 27051 of 28 December 1998 (on government
procurement for the reconstruction of areas affected by natural disasters) stipulates that, under similarconditions, public entities should favour goods and services provided by small and medium-size
enterprises. Law No. 27060 of 6 February 1999, regula ting the purchases of food products within the
PRONAA (national food assistance programme), aut horizes direct purchases of national food
products from small-scale local producers.
(3) M
EASURES DIRECTLY AFFECTING EXPORTS
(i) Procedures
88. Export documentation requirements comprise a commercial invoice, a bill of lading, a
shipment bill, and an export declaration. Other documents such as quality, origin or sanitary
certificates are not required for customs clearance but may be included with other export
documentation when required by importers. The Ministry of Health is in charge of issuing sanitarycertificates while the Ministry of Agriculture issues phytosanitary and zoo-sanitary certificates.
26 Articles 14 to 17 of Law No. 26850.
27 Article 19 of Law No. 26850.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 43
(ii) Export taxes
89. Peru does not apply export taxes. For statistical purposes only, a notional 0% tax is applied
on exports.
(iii) Export restrictions
(a) Export prohibitions and restrictions
90. As mentioned in the Secretariat Report fo r Peru's previous Review, Supreme Decree
No. 070-93-EF of 30 April 1993 records prohibited export products and defines the specific
conditions under which the prohibition may be derogated. The list of prohibited products can be
divided into three groups. The first includes protected flora and fauna specimens; the Ministry of
Agriculture may exceptionally authorize their export for scientific or cultural purposes or when the
product originates in controlled or breeding zones. The second group covers rough wood, whether ornot stripped of bark or sapwood, and swan wood; the prohibition does not apply for wood originated
in growing areas certified by the Ministry of Agriculture. In the third group, Supreme Decree
No. 070-93-EF prohibits the export of historical and cultural archeological objects, although for
official exhibitions exceptional temporary exit might be authorized through supreme resolutions.
91. In addition, several products are subject to production and commercialization restrictions
contained in specific regulations: the ownership and commercialization of vicuñas and
guanacos (camelidiae species) are regulated by Law No. 26496 of 11 July 1995; the extraction of
some Peruvian shells (Concholepas chanque, abalón and tolina) has been prohibited by
Ministerial Resolution Nos. 031-96-PE of 19 January 1996 and 205-97-PE of 7 May 1997; dolphins
and other marine mammals are protected by La w No. 26585 of 9 April 1996, and minor cetaceans
are protected by Supreme Decree No. 002-96-PE of 15 June 1996; the exportation of alpacas and
llamas that have won prizes in official events is prohibited by Supreme Decree No. 008-96-AG of
8 June 1996; and wood extraction is regulated by Supreme Decree Nos. 013-96-AG of
23 August 1996 and 001-97-AG of 15 February 1997, and Ministerial Resolution No. 373-97-AG of
17 September 1997.
92. Unprocessed Cat's Claw ( Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis ), a tropical vine of the
madder (Rubiaceae) family, may not be exported unless it comes from specified zones (SupremeDecree No. 009-99-AG of 29 March 1999). The E xporters Association (ADEX) considered this
restriction to be a non-tariff trade barrier and denounced it to INDECOPI, which stated that the claim
had foundation and sent the case to the Presidency of the Council of Ministers (section (2)(vii)).
93. The exportation of a limited number of controlled products and substances, such as explosives
and arms, chemicals products, and inputs for cocaine production, requires an authorization from therelevant ministry (the Ministry of the Interior and MITINCI, respectively).
94. In the context of the Administrative Bilateral Agreement on Textiles between Peru and the
United States, for statistical purposes exports of textiles require a visa. The entities authorized to
issue these certificates are the National Industry Society (SNI), the Exporters Association (ADEX),
and the External Trade Society (COMEX).
(b) Export quotas
95. The only voluntary export restraint agreement in force in Peru was signed in 1984 by two
Peruvian firms with the United States to suspend their exports of cotton towels.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 44
96. Supreme Decree No. 008-96-AG of 8 June 1996 gave authority to the Ministry of Agriculture
to determine annually, through a ministerial resolution, the number of South American camelidiae to
be exported each year. These quotas are allocated through public auction (Ministerial Resolution
No. 0424-97-AG of 3 November 1997).
97. In 1999, exports of guano were limited to 20% of the volume of extraction established in the
Ministerial Resolution No. 0147-99-AG of 18 February 1999 (annual extraction plan).
98. Under the WTO Agreement on Textiles and Clothing, the European Union (EU)
applies quotas to Peruvian exports of cotton yarns and fabrics. The restrictions apply to product
categories 1 and 2 of Group IA.28 The Peruvian authorities indicated that current quotas
(15,490 tonnes of category 1 and 9,860 tonnes of category 2) were not completely filled. In addition,
other quotas imposed on category 1 products are reserved for imports into the EU for furtherprocessing by the EU industry. Exports of cottage industry fabrics, woven on hand- or foot-operated
looms, garments or other articles obtained manually from such fabrics, and traditional folklore
handicraft products are not subject to quantitative limits provided they are accompanied by a
certificate issued by MITINCI, the competent Peruvian authority. Under this bilateral administrative
arrangement, the Peruvian authorities also undertook to supply the EU with precise statisticalinformation on export licences issued for all categories subject to quantitative limits as well as on
certificates issued for the handmade products mentioned above.
(iv) Duty and tax concessions directly linked to exports or export performance
(a) Drawback
99. A new drawback regime was introduced by Supreme Decree No. 104-95-EF of 23 June 1995,
effective from November 1995. Peru deems this regime not to be a subsidy but has notified it to the
WTO Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures for reasons of transparency. Thisnotification generated several questions and replies within the Committee, several focused on the
refund of 5% of the f.o.b. value of the good exported regardless of the actual amount of duties paid on
imported inputs.
29 The Peruvian authorities justified this procedure for reasons of fiscal and
administrative simplicity, noting that the beneficiaries of the system are small-scale exporting
enterprises.
100. Since 1995, several additional regulations have been enacted defining in particular the list of
goods excluded from the drawback mechanism. Curr ently, products eligible under the mechanism are
exports that incorporate imported inputs and fall w ithin a tariff heading for which the total value of
exports in the previous year did not exceed US$20 million. Several additional economic and
administrative requirements apply, including local-content requirements: the drawback is grantedonly to exports for which the c.i.f. value of the imported inputs does not exceed 50% of the f.o.b.
export value. The mechanism is also limited to exports that incorporate no inputs imported under a
concessional or preferential regime; and the annual amount paid to individual exporters must not
exceed US$0.8 million (as the mechanism does not apply to exports exceeding US$16 million during
the previous 12 months).
101. In 1998, drawback refunds totalled only US$54,8 million, which represented less than 1% of
the total value of exports.
28 For a detailed description of products and level of initial quotas see WTO document G/TMB/N/60,
19 April 1995.
29 Peru's notification is contained in WTO document G/SCM/N/3/PER, 10 July 1996; subsequent
questions and replies are reproduced in documents G/SCM/Q2/PER/1 to 7, September 1996 to January 1997.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 45
(b) Other measures
102. As mentioned in Chapter II(3), concessions granted for foreign investment in the context of
the Stability Agreement may be conditional on export performance.
(v) Export finance, insurance and guarantees
103. The Peruvian authorities indicated that no state programmes are in force for export finance,
insurance, or guarantees. These services are currently supplied by the private sector at prevailing
market conditions. The authorities noted that the export credit activities of SECREX, referred to inthe Secretariat Report for Peru's previous Review, have been made at private market conditions
since 1994.
(vi) Export promotion and marketing assistance
104. Export promotion activities are shared between public and private institutions. Since 1996,
government activities for export promotion have been centralized within the PROMPEX (commission
for export promotion), whose Board includes relevant Ministers (Economy and Finance, External
Relations, and MITINCI) and two private sector representatives. PROMPEX activities, financed
in 1999 from a US$4 million budget, are oriented towards the development of Peruvian exports, incollaboration with the private sector, for instance through research programmes, and towards the
expansion of export markets through participation in international shows and commercial events. In
parallel, another governmental agency, PROMPERU, is charged with promoting Peru's image abroad
including as a tourism and investment destination and an exporter.
105. The main private-sector agencies involved in export promotion activities are: the Exporters
Association (ADEX); the Lima Chamber of Commerce (CCL); the National Confederation of
Private Enterprises (CONF IEP); the External Trade Society (COMEX); and the National Industry
Society (SNI). These institutions coordinate their activities with different government agencies; they
also present proposals and represent their members' interest before the MITINCI, in the context of
international negotiations.
(vii) Measures implemented in foreign markets
106. As discussed in Chapter II(4), Peruvian exports benefit from preferential treatment granted in
the context of regional trade agreements (wit hin the Andean Community and the LAIA) and
non-reciprocal concessions offered in various preferential schemes, such as the U.S. Andean Trade
Preference Act or the special GSP scheme granted to Andean countries by the European Union.
107. With respect to measures that may adversely affect Peru's exports, in the context of this
Review the Peruvian authorities raised concerns about sanitary and phytosanitary measures
implemented in foreign markets. In particular they considered that restrictions introduced on cannedor processed fish products to guard against cholera were unfounded. The authorities also indicated
that access to important foreign markets was limited by restrictive import regimes applied to products
such as bananas and sugar.
108. The countervailing duties applied by the United States on Peruvian exports of cotton shop
towels and fresh cut flowers were removed on 1 January 2000. An anti-dumping investigation,initiated by Venezuela, concerning iron or steel balls for mills resulted in no final measure since the
dumping margin proved to be below de minimis levels.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 46
(4) OTHER MEASURES AFFECTING TRADE
(i) Competition policy
109. The regulatory reform process undertaken in the early 1990s has resulted in a comprehensive
competition policy framework. Its principal component is the INDECOPI (national institute for the
defence of competition and the protection of intellectual property). This is complemented by a
number of sectoral regulatory entities, established or reformed since the last Review of Peru, toguarantee the efficient allocation of resources in sectors with natural monopoly characteristics or
requiring highly specialized regulation. Several such agencies were created in connection with the
privatization of public utilities, including OSIPTEL to regulate and supervise telecommunication
services; OSINERG to regulate the energy sector, in particular environment-related regulations; CTE
to regulate electricity tariffs; and SUNASS to regulate water services. In the area of publicinfrastructure, COPRI is in charge of the system of concessions of public services, and OSITRAN
regulates public transportation. Other important sectoral regulatory bodies include CONASEV, in
charge of supervising capital markets; the Superintendency of Bank and Insurance (SBS); and
CONAM, in charge of environmental protection (Chapter IV).
110. INDECOPI was created by Decree Law No. 25868 of 24 November 1992, which has since
been modified by several regulations. In particular, Supreme Decree No. 807 of 16 April 1996
modified INDECOPI's organization in an attempt to increase its efficiency, better define the
responsibilities of its staff, and simplify procedures to facilitate user access and increase the
predictability of its decisions. INDECOPI is divided in two sections, the economic policy unit and the
jurisdictional area, both supported by a single administrative structure under the oversight of a board
of directors. The jurisdictional area is divided in two: the market competition chamber (composed of
seven commissions including the Free Compet ition Commission and the Dumping and Subsidies
Commission); and the Intellectual Property Cham ber (composed of three offices). The commissions
and offices are INDECOPI's first instance administ rative judicial bodies, while INDECOPI's tribunal
resolves cases in the second instance. Tribunal decisions may be appealed directly in Peru's Supreme
Court.
111. INDECOPI consolidates, within a single institution, areas that in many countries are spread
among different independent agencies. Its mandate covers market access; market exit (bankruptcies
and corporate financial restructuring); domestic competition (antitrust, consumer protection,
advertising, and unfair competition); trade remedies (dumping, subsidies, and safeguards); standards
(including barriers to trade); and intellectual property rights. On market access, INDECOPI's Market
Access Commission is charged with ensuring that illegal or groundless measures adopted by stateinstitutions (including regional and municipal) do not restrict free entry to markets. INDECOPI
provides four categories of technical services to businesses, consumers, and government authorities:
resolution of intellectual property and market competition disputes; registration of trade marks,
patents and copyrights; market information and training; and standardization and quality control.
112. Peru's competition law is based on three decrees enacted in November 1991: Legislative
Decree No. 691 of 6 November 1991, establishing consumer-defence rules on advertising; Legislative
Decree No. 716 of 9 November 1991, defining consumers' rights and suppliers' obligations; and
Legislative Decree No. 701 of 7 November 1991 (the anti-trust law). All these decrees have been
amended by subsequent regulations, in particular by Legislative Decree No. 807 mentioned above.
113. The anti-trust law is designed to eliminate controls and restrictions on free competition in the
production and marketing of goods and the provision of services, thus enabling private enterprise to
develop to the benefit of consumers. Its scope extends to all public or private-law natural or legalPeru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 47
persons engaged in economic activities, including persons representing and managing firms engaged
in prohibited acts. Although public services that have been privatized or granted in concessions are
regulated under specific legislation and regulatory bodies, INDECOPI remains in charge of
investigating restrictive competition practices in all sectors; the only exception is the
telecommunication sector, which falls under the jurisdiction of the OSIPTEL (supervisory body for
private investment in telecommunications) (Chapter IV(6)(iii)).
114. The anti-trust law prohibits all practices that limit or distort free competition or involve abuse
of market dominance harmful to the general economic interest within the national territory. The
different forms of abuse of dominant position and of practices restricting free competition are
expressly defined in the Law.30 The anti-trust law regulates anti-competitive behaviour rather than
market structure, typifying specific practices as abuse of dominant position or as restrictive. Thus,economic concentration is not regulated in Peru, apart from the merger review process in the electric
power sector (Law No. 26876 of 19 November 1997). Two main consideration underlie this
approach. The first relates to the concept of contestable markets, which stresses the importance of
entry and exit barriers as a decisive element in the determination of market structure. The second
relates to efficiency gains: Peru considers that for a small economy the control of mergers may inhibitthe benefits of scale economies.
31
115. The most significant case of anti-competitive practices investigated in recent years by
INDECOPI's Free Competition Commission, relative to the fines imposed, concerned poultry
producers. In September 1996, the Commission started an investigation on possible price-fixing,
trade restraint, and other mechanisms to suppress co mpetitors in the live-chicken market in Lima and
Callao. In an initial ruling, 21 firms were found to have restricted competition through price and
volume fixing and were sanctioned with a total fine of some US$5 million. INDECOPI's tribunalconfirmed partially the first ruling but excluded five firms from the decision and reduced the fines to
around US$1.7 million.
32
(ii) State trading, state-owned enterprises and privatization
116. Peru has no state-trading enterprises within the meaning of GATT Article XVII. In
this respect, the authorities noted that all types of sole rights or other monopolistic restrictions orpractices in the production and marketing of goods and services, including on the part of public
entities, have been eliminated and prohibited.
33 Special import rights for the state enterprise
Fertilizantes Sintéticos S.A. (FERTISA), for ammonium nitrate and its components, were suppressed
in November 1996 through legislative Decree No. 846 of 21 September 1996. With effect from
1 October 1996, the marketing of these inputs has been subject to regulations on explosives forcivilian use.
34
117. State involvement in the production and supply of goods and services has declined
significantly since 1991 in most economic sector s. Between 1991 and 1998, some 200 transactions
resulted in a radical transformation of many productive activities, and generated close to
US$8.7 billion in total privatization revenue and some US$7 billion in investment commitments. The
30 Defined in Articles 3 to 6 of Legislative Decree No. 701. Further information can also be found in
Peru's communications to the Working Group on the Interaction between Trade and Competition Policy (WTOdocuments WT/WGTCP/W/36 of 7 November 1997 and WT/WGTCP/W59 of 5 February 1998).
31 Further details on Peru's experience with its legislation on merger control and competition policy can
be found in WTO document WT/WGTCP/W59 of 5 February 1998.
32 Salient INDECOPI's jurisprudence is available online at: http://www.indecopi.gob.pe.
33 Legislative Decree No. 668 of 14 September 1991.
34 WTO document G/STR/N/3/PER of 28 July 1997.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 48
bulk of the privatization revenue was obtained between 1994 and 1996 (close to US$7.6 billion); this
reflected the sale of the State's participation in the telecommunication and electricity sectors,
representing 60% of total proceeds from privatization and the granting of concessions.
118. Divestments have included firms in primary activities (agriculture, fishing, and mining),
manufacturing (including food and beverages, textiles, paper, and cement), energy (electricity and
hydrocarbons), and services (including banking, airlines, telephones, and distribution). Theprivatization programme has also included the sale of real estate owned by state enterprises. The
programme's reach has varied across sectors: according to data from the Privatization Commission
(COPRI), at the end of 1999 privatization had reached 100% in the financial sector; 100% in
telecommunications; 85% in industry; 90% in mining; 65% in electricity and hydrocarbons; 25% in
agriculture; and 70% in other sectors.
119. The PROMCEPRI (commission for the promotion of private concessions) was created by
Legislative Decree No. 839 (of 20 August 1996) to promote private investment in public
infrastructure and other public services. PROMCEPRI's functions and attributes were assigned to
COPRI in 1998. At end 1999, six projects had been granted in concession under this scheme: a
power transmission line; the Southern power grid; the Machu Picchu car cable; the cellulartelephone "B" band; the maritime port of Matarani; and the Center, South and Orient
South Railways. Future privatizations and concessions are likely to involve projects in hydrocarbons
(Camisea gas); transport (roads, ports, and airp orts); mining (Centromin-Minero Peru); and
agriculture (farm and non-farm lands; cane sugar companies).
(iii) Free zones and other special fiscal zones
120. Peru's free zones and other special fiscal zones are largely intended as regional development
instruments: they are generally located in remote and economically depressed areas. In their initialform, many of those zones fell short of their developmental goals; this was true of zones established
under Legislative Decree No. 704 of November 1991 (free, special trade treatment and special
development zones). Of the six industrial and the two trade zones originally created under Decree
No. 704, only two (the free zone in Ilo and the trade zone in Tacna) were active in 1996. The specific
regimes for tourist free-zones and special development zones did not lead to any projects.
35 A s a
result, Legislative Decree No. 704 was partly derogated in August 1996 and complemented by
Legislative Decree Nos. 842 and 864 of August and October 1996, which established new zones
(centres for export, transformation, industry, comm ercialization, and services – CETICOS) using the
physical infrastructure already in place in the free zones of Ilo, Matarani and Paita and the special
trade treatment zone of Tacna.36 Subsequently, Law No. 26953 of 21 May 1998 created an additional
CETICOS in the Loreto Department but in early 2000 its precise location and the required regulations
were yet to be defined.37
121. In parallel with the new CETICOS created in Tacna, the special trade treatment zone
established by Supreme Decree No 704 is still in operation. The zone is devoted exclusively to
commercial activities. Various goods, defined through Supreme Decrees, may be imported into thezone subject to a uniform 8% import duty; those same goods may be sold in the zone free of sales
taxes (IGV and ISC - section 2(iv) above). However, enterprises established in the zone must pay all
other taxes applied in the Peruvian territory.
35 These free-zone regimes are described in GATT (1994).
36 Supreme Decree No. 112-97-EF of 29 August 1997 consolidated the various laws regulating the
CETICOS.
37 Conditions set for the creation of the CETICOS in Loreto are slightly different from those
established for other CETICOS, in particular conditio ns to obtain fiscal incentives are less restrictive.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 49
122. The CETICOS established under Legislative Decree Nos. 842 and 864 are considered as
primary customs zones. They are intended to foster the economic development of the depressed
regions where they are located, through the creation of port and production infrastructures, as well as
through the promotion of private concessions of public works and services. In particular, CETICOS
are intended to generate employment through the promotion of maquila and assembling operations;
port services; and vehicle reconditioning and repair.
123. The principal fiscal incentive granted by this new regime to promote maquila activities
involves exempting firms established in CETICOS by end 2004 from all national, regional or local
taxes until 2012. This incentive is conditional on export performance: at least 92% of a beneficiary
firm's annual sales must correspond to export activities. The Peruvian authorities indicated that as at
October 1999 this scheme had generated only limited results as only one productive enterprise hadbeen established (in Paita).
124. Incentives to promote port services take the form of exemptions from import duties and
domestic taxes granted to merchandise entering CETICOS through the ports of Ilo, Matarani or Paita.
Merchandise imported under the transit regime from any other entry point may also benefit from this
exemption provided it is re-exported or exported after transformation in the CETICOS through one of
the above-mentioned ports.
125. The authorities indicated that CETICOS produced encouraging results in boosting activities
related to the reconditioning and repair of vehicles, particularly in terms of employment. In 1999,
1,683 persons were employed in these activities, of which some 70% were located in Tacna and some
20% in Matarani. A total of 40,823 vehicles were imported into the CETICOS in 1999, mostly in
Tacna (83%) and Matarani (12%). These results are mainly explained by the strong incentives
established through Legislative Decree N o. 843 and Supreme Decree No. 087-96-EF of
29 August 1996. Legislative Decree No. 843 permitted the importation of used vehicles, after a
temporary suspension by Urgent Decree No. 05-96 of 23 January 1996, but only under certain
conditions, in particular that they were designed and built as left-hand-drive vehicles and were never
written-off in an accident. However, the last tw o criteria do not apply to used vehicles imported
through the ports of Ilo or Matarani into a CETICOS for reconditioning or repair. As mentioned insection (2)(iv) above, Supreme Decree No. 087-96-EF introduced differentiated fiscal treatment for
used vehicles imported through CETICOS: they are subject to a 0% excise tax rate, while other used
vehicles are subject to a 55% rate.
(iv) Incentives
(a) Special credit facilities
126. State activities in the financial system are generally limited to supervision (Chapter IV(6)(ii));
most publicly owned financial firms have been privatized. A notable exception is the COFIDE
(corporation for development finance), in which th e State owns 97.25% of the shares (the Andean
Development Corporation, CAF, holds the rest). COFIDE acts as a second-tier bank, granting loans
at interest rates equivalent to those obtainable on international capital markets. In 1997, approvedcredits amounted to US$1,188 million, directed main ly to manufactures (33%), retail trade (20%),
agriculture (8.5%), and fishing (7.5%). In 1998, responding to financial problems faced by Banco
Latino, COFIDE intervened by injecting liquidity into the Bank and re-capitalizing its debt. The
intervention, deemed to be temporary, gave COFIDE control of 86% of Banco Latino's shares.
127. State enterprises may receive support from the Bank of the Nation, but exclusively in
connection with their privatization; under the third transitional provision of the Bank's statutes, allWT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 50
other support previously provided by the Bank to those enterprises appears to have been phased out.38
Although the Bank of the Nation's Charter allows the Bank to give support to state enterprises
in connection with their privatization, the Peruvian authorities indicated that this facility has
not been used in the last two years. The Bank of the Nation's main purpose is to administer treasury
sub-accounts and provide banking services to the Central Government in connection with the
administration of public funds. It is established under public law and attached to the Ministry ofEconomy and Finance but enjoys financial and administrative autonomy.
128. The Regional Fundeagros, established by regional governments to grant loans to small and
medium-sized farm units, were wound up on 31 December 1995. Their resources were transferred
to COFIDE where a special fund, supervised by the Ministry of Agriculture, was created to support
the agricultural sector ( Fondo Revolvente Único de Apoyo al Sector Agrario ). In 1997, the scope
of activities eligible for support from the special fund was extended to cover all agricultural
activities, including related services, marketing, and transformation processes (Ministerial Resolution
No. 0412-97-AG of 17 October 1997).
129. The Government runs various credit programmes in addition to COFIDE's activities. The
FONDEPES (national fisheries development fund) offers programmes that facilitate access to creditto small non-industrial fishing enterprises and enable them to purchase or repair fishing vessels or
vehicles for transporting seafood products, or engage in fish farming. FONDEPES loans are granted
in U.S. dollars and require complete repayment of the capital; interest is at variable rates not lower
than those obtainable on the international capital markets. As at end 1998, 1,879 credits had been
granted under this programme for a total amount of some US$20 million, these credits were directed
mainly into the construction of vessels and towards the acquisition of fishing equipment.
130. The agriculture sector benefits from the rotating fund programme, which was established by
Decree Law No. 25816 of 28 October 1992 and impl emented at the end of 1994 by Ministerial
Resolution No. 780-94-AG of 6 December 1994. The programme offers credit in-kind and is
financed from funds contributed by the Treasury. It targets the poorest, organized peasant-farmers in
economically depressed areas or where emergencies have been declared; it is considered that the
targeted groups would find it difficult to access commercial credit because of their poverty, or theuncertain climate and lack of security in their areas. The loans should be repaid in full, either in cash
or in kind equivalent to the real value of the loan on the date of repayment, plus interest computed at a
real annual rate of 3 to 10% ; terms vary with the type of goods involved.
(b) Fiscal incentives
131. Fiscal incentives constitute an important instrument of Peru's regional, sectoral, and social
policies. Established through a multitude of laws and regulations, numerous partial or complete
exonerations apply to specific activities in virtually all sectors. The resulting number of fiscal
incentives raises questions on the complexity and effectiveness of the incentive structure offered to
economic operators. Moreover, although no estimates are available, the fiscal revenue forgone could
be significant and might undermine the Government's ability to attend to other priorities, particularlyin the face of strict fiscal constraints (Chapter I).
132. Most exonerations affecting the general sales tax (IGV) and the excise tax (ISC) were
consolidated in Supreme Decree No. 055-99-EF of 15 April 1999. Under this Decree, in addition to
the exonerations affecting imports (section (2)(iv)) and those applied in CETICOS (section (3)(iii)),
certain activities are exempted from the IGV or the ISC. Activities exempt from the IGV are
industrial enterprises located on the Peruvian border; financial institutions in the process of winding
38 WTO document G/SCM/Q2/PER/6 of 7 January 1997.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 51
up; as well as lodging and food services rendered by firms established in Peru by foreign-based
tourist operators. The importation or sale of residual fuel or diesel to power generating and
distributing firms are exempt from the ISC.
133. The Law for Investment Promotion in the Amazon (Law No. 27037 of 30 December 1998)
established benefits for activities in Departments of the Amazon region. Benefits are defined for
specific regions and/or types of activities. They include, subject to different conditions, partial orcomplete exonerations from income, sales and excise taxes as well as from other levies such as the
extraordinary tax on net assets or municipal taxes.
134. Income tax benefits include:
− Tax exoneration for farmers whose annual sales are less than 50 UIT. This exoneration, in
force since January 1996, was established by Law No. 26564 of 29 December 1995 and
prolonged until 31 December 2000 by successive regulations (Law No. 26564, LegislativeDecree No. 885, Law No. 26881, and Law No. 27217).
− Reduction of the tax rate from 30% to 15% for farmers in crop or breeding activities. This
exoneration, in force since January 1997, does not apply to poultry, agroindustry, and forestry
activities. It was established by Legislative Decree No. 885 of 8 November 1996 and
prolonged until 2006 by Law No. 26865 of 15 October 1997.
− A deduction from total taxable income of up to 20% of invested capital in crop or breeding
activities, in force from 1997 to 2000 (Legislative Decree No. 885 of 8 November 1996).
− Exoneration until 2000 for industrial enterprises located in the border zone (Law No. 23407
of 29 May 1982 and Legislative Decree No. 618 of 29 November 1990).
− Reduction of taxable income for mining activities, in particular for reinvested capital,
investment in public services infrastructure or for compliance with specific workers' benefits
(Supreme Decree No. 014-92-EM of 4 June 1992).
− Fiscal credit equivalent to 30% of the income re-invested in educational activities (Legislative
Decree No. 882 of 9 November 1996.
− Reduction of the tax rate from 30% to 10%, 5% or 0% for enterprises located in various
Departments of the Amazon region and involved in agricultural, forestry or related industrial
activities, as well as in tourism (Law No. 27037 of 30 December 1998).
135. Other incentives include a fiscal credit equivalent to 3% of the value of production of firms
producing machines and capital goods (Law No. 26782, in force since 1 June 1997). A simplified tax
regime is available to small and micro-enterprises, which in lieu of most fiscal charges pay a uniquecontribution of 1% of their monthly turnover (L egislative Decree No. 705 of 8 November 1991). A
substantial reduction in the general sales tax applied to domestic rice sales (5% instead of 20% )
benefits rice producers.
(v) Adjustment assistance
136. Rules for financial restructuring, liquidation or bankruptcy, and mechanisms allowing the
global rescheduling of obligations are provided in Supreme Decree No. 014-99-ITINCI; this law
covers all activities except those under the supervision of the Superintendency of Banking andInsurance or Pension Fund Administrators. In addition, exceptional transitional measures to facilitate
financial restructuring programmes through mechanisms such as capitalization or debt forgiveness
were introduced through Urgent Decree No. 064-99-ITINCI of 1 December 1999. Applications to
participate in these programmes will close on 31 December 2000.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 52
137. A specific restructuring programme (PERTA-AGRARIA), in favor of agricultural enterprises,
was set up through Legislative Decree No. 877 of 26 August 1997 regulated by Supreme Decree
No. 107-98-EF of 28 November 1998. This programme covers natural or legal persons involved in all
agricultural activities with the exception of poultry farming, agroindustry and forestry activities. The
programme established conditions to reschedule fiscal and financial debts over a maximum period of
eight years. Debtors who paid their debts before 30 April 1999, in cash or kind (with seeds orbreeding animals), were forgiven 60% of their regularized obligations.
138. PERTA-AGRARIA covers fiscal and financial debts contracted up to 31 March 1998. Fiscal
debts include all taxes administered and collected by the Customs and the fiscal administration
(SUNAT); municipal taxes; and social security contributions. Financial debts include specific
credits granted by central or regional government agencies, in particular for seed production and forthe acquisition of investment goods; credits granted through former Fundeagros; credits granted by
COFIDE, the Bank of the Nation or the former Rural Bank of Peru; and credits granted by the
National Development Institute (I NADE) fo r specific projects. In addition, special provision to
capitalize debts contracted by sugar producers before 31 December 1995 were introduced by Supreme
Decree No. 107-98-EFP.
139. In the fishing sector, a specific adjustment programme to cut overcapacity in the fishing fleet
was to be approved in mid 2000 (Chapter IV(3)).
(vi) Trade-related investment measure and local-content requirements
140. To promote and develop dairy farming in Peru, imported milk powders, anhydrous fat and
other milk products may not be used in the reconstitution and re-mixing processes for the production
of liquid milk products, cheeses, butter, and similar products for direct human consumption. This
restriction, notified to the Committee on Trade-Related Investment Measures in 1995, also require
producers of evaporated milk to use nationally produced fresh milk as an input.
39
141. These measures were still in force in early 2000 and no provisions appear to have been made
for phasing-down or eliminating them. However, the authorities indicated that the measures have not
been implemented in practice nor have attempts been made to enforce them. Indeed, despite thesemeasures, it appears that, in 1995, evaporated milk producers used a mix of 40% Peruvian fresh milk
and 60% imported milk powders in local production; although no recent estimates are available the
authorities indicated that these figures might still apply.
142. The Budget for year 2000 (Law No. 27212 of 3 December 1999) provided that only Peruvian
products may be acquired for government nutrition programmes involving the distribution of food;the only exception concerns enriched dairy products, which must contain at least 75% national
content. This provision affects explicitly three important nutrition programmes: the "glass of milk"
scheme; the FONCODES (national compensation and social development fund); and the National
Food Assistance Programme (PRONAA). In rela tion to these programmes, the budget law also
directs government agencies to enter into contracts, under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture,only with individual or organized small-scale farmers, or with small agroindustrial companies for the
future acquisition of goods. Those nutrition programmes also favour fish products: the budget law
provides that such products should be acquired as priority, and allows direct purchases through the
Peruvian Fish Technology Institute (ITP). The Peruvian authorities indicated that national-content
requirements do not apply to non-food items under FONCODES programmes.
39 WTO document G/TRIMS/N/1/PER/1 of 18 April 1995.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 53
143. The Peruvian Association of Poultry Farmers and the Maize and Sorghum Producers
Committee signed an agreement in early 2000, under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture, forpoultry growers to buy part of domestic maize and sorghum production.
(vii) Regional and other programmes
144. In addition to the incentives described in sections (iii) and (iv) above, Peru's regional
development policy relies on targeted social programmes aimed at reducing extreme poverty;
promoting growth in potentially productive areas; integrating remote and border areas; anddeveloping alternatives to coca production. Public expenditure in these social programmes
represented 1.6% of GDP in 1998 (S/. 3,208 million).
145. As part of the drug enforcement programme, the production, transportation, distribution, use
and transformation of chemicals that may be used for drug production are subject to a special
marketing regime run by MITINCI (Law Decr ee No. 25623 of 22 July 1992 and its successive
amendments). The National Coca Corporation (ENACO), a state enterprise established under privatelaw, undertakes the marketing at home and abroad of legally produced coca leaf.
(viii) Intellectual property rights
(a) Introduction
146. Peru is a signatory to most international intellectual property right (IPR) conventions,
including the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, the Paris
Convention for the Protection of Industrial Prope rty, the Rome Convention for the Protection of
Performers, Producers of Phonograms and Broadcasting Organizations, and the Universal Copyright
Convention. It is also a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The WTO
Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement) was
incorporated into the domestic legislation in 1995 as part of Peru's ratification of the Marrakesh
Agreement.
147. Peru protects IPRs through a combination of international, regional and national provisions.
Domestic laws consolidate elements from rules adopted at the regional and international levels and
thus assure their consistency and applicability through unified regulations. The Industrial Property
Law (Legislative Decree No. 823 of 24 April 1996 ) and the Copyright Law (Legislative Decree
No. 822 of 24 April 1996) are the two main domestic statutes for the protection of IPRs in Peru; otherrelevant domestic and international legislation in force is listed in Table III.6.
148. The INDECOPI (national institute for the defence of competition and intellectual property
rights) is in charge of promoting, supervising a nd enforcing intellectual property laws in Peru (see
also section 4(i)). In 1997, Peru notified INDECOPI as the contact point established for the purposes
of Article 69 of the TRIPS Agreement.
40 Through a proactive approach to IPR protection, the
Peruvian Government has sought to foster innovation and the creation of valuable intangible goods
throughout the country. Peru is also committed to th e promotion, at the international level, of greater
protection for the traditional knowledge of local and indigenous communities.41
40 WTO document IP/N/3/Rev.2/Add.2 of 31 January 1997.
41 Within the context of the WTO, Peru, together with Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Nicaragua made
a proposal in this matter (WTO document WT/GC/W/362 of 12 October 1999). Additional information can befound online at: http://www.indecopi.gob.pe/noveda/recugene/RecursosGeneticos.html.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 54
Table III.6
IPR-related legislation in force in Peru
Legislation Description
General provisions
Constitution of Peru, Article 2 (on basic individual rights) Enshrines the right to own and benefit from intellectual creations
Penal Code, Articles 216 to 229 Deal with intellectual property rights violations
Civil Code, Article 886 Defines intellectual property rights as transferable property
Law Decree No. 25868, Supreme Decree No. 025-93-ITINCI,
Legislative Decree No. 807Regulate INDECOPI's operation
Legislative Decree No. 662 (Foreign investment promotion law). Grants national treatment to IPRs held by foreigners
TRIPS Agreement Multilateral agreement on intellectual property rights
Industrial property
Paris Convention (1883) Industrial property protection
General Interamerican Convention for Trade Marks and
Commercial Protection (Washington, 1929)Protection of trade marks, trade names, and repression of unfair
competition and false indications of geographical origin
Decision 291 of the Commission of the Cartagena Agreement Regime for the common treatment of foreign capital and trade
marks, patents, licensing agreements and royalties
Decision 344 of the Commission of the Cartagena Agreement Common regime on industrial property
Decision 345 of the Commission of the Cartagena Agreement andSupreme Decree No. 008-96-ITINCIAndean provisions on the protection of the rights of breeders of
new plant varieties
Decision 391 of the Commission of the Cartagena Agreement Common regime on access to genetic resources
Legislative Decree No. 823 Industrial Property Law
Copyrights and Neighbouring Rights
Bern Convention Protection of literary and artistic works
Universal Copyright Convention (Geneva, 1952) Copyrights
Rome Convention (1961) Protection of performers, producers of phonograms and
broadcasting organizations
Convention for the Protection of Producers of PhonogramsAgainst Unauthorized Duplication of their Phonograms (1971)Protection of producers of phonograms
Convention Relating to the Distribution of Programme-carrying
Signals Transmitted by Satellite (Brussels, 1974)Use of satellites for the distribution of programme-carrying
signals
Treaty on the International Registration of Audiovisual Works(Geneva, 1989)Registration of audiovisual works
Decision 351 of the Commission of the Cartagena Agreement and
Supreme Decree No. 03-94-ITINCIAndean provisions on copyright and neighbouring rights
Legislative Decree No. 822 Copyright Law
Law No. 26905 Legal deposit on copyrighted material in the National Library of
Peru
Source: INDECOPI (1997), Compilación Legislativa de Propiedad Intelectual .
149. Since INDECOPI's creation in late 1992, substantial results appear to have been obtained in
the promotion of IPRs. For instance, there is growing local interest in the registration of IPRs; over
94,735 property rights (including 86,106 trade marks and 1,396 patents) were registered between1993 and 1999, of which 50,000 were granted to Peruvians.
(b) Industrial property
150. In 1996, the Industrial Property Law was enacted to incorporate into a single domestic
regulation the different elements of Andean Decision 344, the Paris Convention and the TRIPS
Agreement.
42 The Industrial Property Law regulates patents, utility models, industrial design and
secrets, trade marks, trade names, commercial slogans, and appellations of origin.
42 Decision 344, the Andean provisions on industrial property, is currently under revision to assure its
consistency with TRIPS provisions.Peru WT/TPR/S/69
Page 55
151. Patent applications must be filed with INDECOPI, and are granted for a period of 20 years
from the filing date; opposition should be notified within 30 days. Protection for utility models and
industrial designs is granted for 10 years. All inventions that have industrial applications can be
patented with certain exceptions, including: species of plants and animals; inventions contrary to
public order or health; inventions based on the human body and its genetic identity; and inventions
related to pharmaceutical products listed as essential by the World Health Organization. Noveltyexamination is part of the registration procedure. Peru grants no transitional (pipeline) protection for
pharmaceuticals. Protection for new plant varieties is granted through a sui generis system under
Supreme Decree No. 08-96-ITINCI and Andean Decision 345, to members of the Andean
Community. Peru is not a member of the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of
Plants (UPOV). Layout designs are currently protected by regulations against unfair competition, butspecific provisions were included in the proposed modifications of Andean Decision 344.
152. Licensing agreements for patents and trade marks must be registered with the INDECOPI in
order to be effective against third parties. This institute may grant mandatory licences under specific
conditions, e.g. if the legal holder of the patent has not exploited it or if such exploitation has been
suspended. Mandatory licences might also be granted by means of public interest laws or for reasonsof national security or emergency. Since 1994, there have been no cases of mandatory licensing in
Peru.
153. Peruvian law defines trade marks as any sign used to distinguish in the market the products
and services rendered by a person from those rendered by any other person. Registration with
INDECOPI gives protection for a ten-year term, which is renewable indefinitely for ten-year terms.
The law grants protection to well-know trade marks. Unregistered marks are not protected. Under
Peruvian Industrial Property Law, the State is the only possible holder of any appellation of origin.
154. Trade secrets are protected without any formality requirement. Employees and managers are
prohibited from revealing trade secrets to third parties.
(c) Copyrights and neighbouring rights
155. The Copyright Law provides protection to the authors of artistic and literary works and to
their beneficiaries or rightholders regardless of their nationality, domicile and place of publication ordissemination. Protection is granted for the author's life plus 70 years. The transfer of copyrights
following death are regulated by the Civil Code. Collective works, software and audiovisual works
are granted a 70-year protection from their first pub lication. Peru's Copyright Law protects the moral
rights of authors. It includes special provisions for audiovisual works, software, data bases,
architectural and plastic art works, and journalistic articles. Registration with the INDECOPI isvoluntary, and is intended to provide enhanced legal protection for rightholders. Peruvian legislation
distinguishes between economic rights (protected for 70 years) and moral rights (protected for ever).
(d) Enforcement
156. Peru has made important efforts in recent years to improve the enforcement of intellectual
property rights, not least the creation of INDECOPI in 1992, and considerably gains appear to havebeen made. For instance, according to the Interna tional Intellectual Property Alliance, between 1995
and 1998 the share of illegal copies in Peruvian markets for motion pictures and computer programs
has been reduced from 95% to 50% and from 84% to 60% respectively.
157. INDECOPI has responsibility for overseeing the enforcement of domestic and international
obligations on IPRs, as well as receiving and resolving disputes, and imposing penalties. Civil and
penal procedures can also be engaged. Foreign IPR holders receive equal treatment in dispute cases.WT/TPR/S/69 Trade Policy Review
Page 56
Since 1993, 2,652 cases have been presented of which 2,328 were concluded. Fines for trade mark
and patent infringements are set as high as 150 UIT, preventive measures can also be requested.43
The Copyright Law allows copyright owners to denounce infractions and to request preventativemeasures such as confiscation or destruction of illicit copies; it also establishes fines of up to
150 UIT. In addition, the Law modified several articles of the Penal Code establishing sentences up
to eight years of imprisonment for those involved in copyrights infringements.
158. There are no regulations to allow holders of IPRs to prevent imports of patented products
legally placed in the market abroad, but modifications to Decision 344 of the Commission of the
Cartagena Agreement, which may institute such measures are under consideration.
43 As at August 1999, one fiscal unit (UIT) was equivalent to S/. 2,800.
| 17,031 | 116,803 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_SPS_NNZL149A1.pdf
|
R_G_SPS_NNZL149A1
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEG/SPS/N/NZL/149/Add.1
26 octobre 2001
(01-5246)
Comité des mesures sanitaires et phytosanitaires Original: anglais
NOTIFICATION
Addendum
La Nouvelle-Zélande a fait parvenir au Secrétariat la communication ci-après, datée du
24 octobre 2001.
_______________
La Nouvelle-Zélande a précédemment informé les Membres de l'OMC de l'élaboration d'un
projet de norme sanitaire d'importation concernant l'importation en Nouvelle-Zélande de chevaux en
provenance des États-Unis d'Amérique. Le délai pour la présentation d'observations concernant ce
document, qui a fait l'objet de la notification G/SPS/N/NZL/149 du 27 juillet 2001, est prolongé
jusqu'au 1er novembre 2001.
Adresse pour la présentation des observations: Dr Erin Daldry, National Adviser International
Trade, Animal Biosecurity Group, MAF Bios ecurity Authority, PO Box 2526, Wellington,
Nouvelle-Zélande.
Téléphone: +64 4 470 2778; téléfax: +64 4 474 4133; courrier électronique: [email protected]
Document disponible à l'adresse ci-après: Mr Keawe Woodmore, Coordinator, New Zealand SPS
Notification Authority, PO Box 2526, 101-103 The Terrace, Wellington, Nouvelle-Zélande.
Téléphone: +64 4 474 4226; téléfax: +64 4 470 2730; courrier électronique: [email protected]
Document également disponible à l'adresse Internet ci-après:
http://www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/sps /transparency/notifications/index.htm
__________
| 172 | 1,421 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_TBT_ENQ11.pdf
|
R_G_TBT_ENQ11
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCE G/TBT/ENQ/11
24 avril 1998
(98-1671)
Comité des obstacles techniques au commerce
POINTS D'INFORMATION NATIONAUX
Note du Secrétariat
Le présent document contient une liste des noms, adresses, numéros de télex, de téléphone, de
téléfax et adresses de courrier électronique, lors qu'elles existent, du (des) point(s) d'information
prévu(s) aux articles 10.1 et 10.3 de l'Accord, ai nsi que des renseignements complémentaires que les
délégations ont communiqués au sujet de son (leur) fonctionnement.
_______________
Afrique du Sud
Standards Information Centre
(Centre d'information sur les normes)
South African Bureau of Standards
(Bureau sud-africain de normalisation) Private Bag X191 0001 Pretoria
Téléphone: + (27 12) 428 7911
Téléfax: + (27 12) 344 1568
Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Allemagne
Deutsches Informationszentrum für technische Regeln (DITR)
(Centre allemand d'information sur les réglementations techniques) Postfach 11 07, Burggrafenstr. 6
D-10787 Berlin
Téléphone: + (49 30) 26 01 26 00
Téléfax: + (49 30) 26 28 125
Le DITR est actuellement mis en place par le DIN (Institut allemand de
normalisation), en collaboration avec le gouvern ement fédéral. Cet orga-nisme a pour
fonction de centraliser toutes les questions c oncernant les règles techniques de l'Allemagne.
Le Centre fournit des renseignements sur toutes les règles techniques (y compris les
normes, les règlements techniques et les systèmes de certi-fication) en vigueur dans le pays,
qu'elles émanent du gouvernement fédéral, d es institutions locales, ou d'organismes non
gouvernementaux. A l'heure actuelle, la banque de données informatisée du DITR contient
des renseignements sur environ 36 000 règles tec hniques qui sont soit en vigueur, soit à l'état
de projet. G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 2
Argentine
Dirección Nacional de Comercio Interior
(Direction nationale du commerce intérieur) Director Lic. Blanca Conde Av. Julio A. Roca 651 – 4° piso, sector I
1322 Buenos Aires
Téléphone: + (54 1) 349 40 39
+ (54 1) 349 40 51 Téléfax: + (54 1) 349 40 38
Australie
WTO Enquiry Point
(Point d'information OMC)
The Director WTO Industrials & Market Access Unit (Unité OMC pour les produits industriels et l'accès aux marchés)
Trade Negotiations and Organisations Division
(Division des organisations et des négociations commerciales)
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Ministère des affaires étrangères et du commerce extérieur) Canberra A.C.T. 2600
Téléphone: + (61 2) 6261 24 00
Téléfax: + (61 2) 6261 35 14
Autriche
a) Pour les règlements techniques:
Bundesministerium für wi rtschaftliche Angelegenheiten
(Ministère fédéral des affaires économiques)
Abteilung II/11 (Département II/11) Stubenring 1 A-1011 Vienne
Téléphone: + (43 1) 711 00/poste 5452
Téléfax: + (43 1) 715 96 51/718 05 08
Télex: (047) 111780 regeb a
(047) 111145 regeb a Courrier électronique/ X400: X 400 G = Gabriela; S = Habermayer; O = BMWA; A = ADA; C = AT
Courrier électronique/
Internet: [email protected] G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 3
b) Pour les normes non gouvernementales:
Österreichisches Normungsinstitut - ON
(Institut autrichien de normalisation) Heinestrasse 38 P.O.B. 130
A-1021 Vienne
Téléphone: + (43 1) 213 00/poste 613
Téléfax: + (43 1) 213 00 650 Télex: (047) 115 960 norm a Courrier électronique/
Internet: [email protected]
Courrier électronique/
Geonet: TBXA:IRO
Bahreïn
Directorate of Standards and Metrology
(Direction de la normalisation et de la métrologie)
Ministry of Commerce (Ministère du commerce) P.O. Box 5479 M a n a m a
Belgique
CIBELNOR
Centre d'information belge sur les normes et les règlements techniques
Secrétariat: Institut belge de normalisation (IBN)
Avenue de la Brabançonne 29 B-1000 Bruxelles
Téléphone: + (32 2) 738 01 11
Téléfax: + (32 2) 733 42 64 Télex: 23877 BENOR B
Belize
The Financial Secretary
(Secrétaire aux finances)
Ministry of Finance
(Ministère des finances)
Belmopan G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 4
Bénin
Ministère du commerce et du tourisme
P.O.B. 2037 Cotonou
Téléphone: + (229) 31 52 67
+ (229) 31 54 02
Téléfax: + (229) 31 52 58
Bolivie
a) Point d'information pour les règlements techniques et les procédures d'évaluation de
la conformité:
Viceministerio de Industria y Comercio Interno
(Vice-Ministre de l'industrie et du commerce intérieur)
Av. Camacho 1488
Casilla No. 4430 La Paz
Téléphone: + (591 2) 37 20 46
Téléfax: + (591 2) 31 72 62
b) Point d'information pour les règlements techniques: Instituto Boliviano de Normalización y Calidad (IBNORCA)
(Institut bolivien de la nor malisation et de la qualité)
Av. Camacho 1488 Casilla No. 5034
La Paz
Téléphone: + (591 2) 31 72 62
+ (591 2) 31 01 85 Téléfax: + (591 2) 31 72 62
Brésil
Centro de Informação e Difusão Tecnológica (CIDIT)
(Centre d'information et de diffusion de la technologie) Instituto Nacional de Metrologia, Norm alizacão e Qualidade Industrial -INMETRO
(Institut national de la métrologie, de la normalisation et de la qualité industrielle)
Rua Santa Alexandrina, 416 - Rio Comprido 20261-232 Rio de Janeiro (RJ)
Téléphone: + (55 21) 293 06 16
Téléfax: + (55 21) 502 04 15 Courrier électronique: [email protected] G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 5
Bulgarie
Committee for Standardization and Metrology
(Comité de la normalisation et de la métrologie) 21, 6th September Street 1000 Sofia
Téléphone: + (359 2) 85 91
+ (359 2) 80 35 13 Téléfax: + (359 2) 801 402 Télex: 22 570 dks bg
Personne à contacter: Violetta Veleva
Canada
Service d'information sur les normes
Conseil canadien des normes 45, rue O'Connor, bureau 1200 Ottawa
Ontario K1P 6N7
Téléphone: + (1 613) 238 32 22
Téléfax: + (1 613) 995 45 64 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Chili
Dirección de Relaciones Económicas Internacionales
(Direction des relations économiques internationales)
Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores (Ministère des relations extérieures) Alameda Bernardo O'Higgins 1315, 2° piso Santiago
Téléphone: + (56 2) 696 00 43
Téléfax: + (56 2) 696 06 39 Télex: 240836 PROCH CL 340120 PROCH CK
Chypre
Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism
(Ministère du commerce, de l'industrie et du tourisme) CY 1421 Nicosie
Téléphone: + (357 2) 30 80 41
+ (357 2) 30 80 46-49
Téléfax: + (357 2) 37 51 20
Télex: 22 83 Mincomind CY G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 6
Colombie
Ministerio de Desarrollo Económico
(Ministère du développement économique) División de Normalización y Calidad (Division de la normalisation et de la qualité)
Carrera 13 No. 28-01. Piso 8
Santafé de Bogotà
Téléphone: + (57 1) 338 06 41
Téléfax: + (57 1) 245 72 56
Communauté européenne
Le chef du point d'information est M. G. Lohan
Point d'information OTC-CE
(EC TBT Enquiry Point) DG III/A/1 7ème étage, bureau 128
Rue de la science 15
1049 Bruxelles Belgique
Téléphone: + (32 2) 295 54 29
Téléfax: + (32 2) 296 60 26 Télex: 21877 COMEU B
Il n'y aura plus de point d'information séparé pour les produits agricoles.
Corée, République de
a) Pour les produits industriels:
Korean National Institute of Technology and Quality (KNITQ)
(Institut national coréen de la technologie et de la qualité)
M. Yoo-Jin Koh, Directeur,
International Cooperati on and Metrology Division
(Division de la coopération inte rnationale et de la métrologie)
1599, Kwanyang-dong, Anyang Kyunggi-do, 431-060
Téléphone: + (82 343) 84 18 61
Téléfax: + (82 343) 84 60 77 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 7
b) Pour les produits agricoles: Technical Cooperation Division
(Division de la coopération technique) Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF)
(Ministère de l'agriculture, de la sylviculture et de la pêche)
1, Choongang-dong, Kwachon
Kyunggi-do 427-760
Téléphone: + (82 2) 503 72 94
Téléfax: + (82 2) 507 20 95
c) Pour les produits de la pêche:
Trade Promotion Division
(Division de la promotion des échanges commerciaux) Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries
(Ministère des affaires ma ritimes et de la pêche)
826-14 Yoksam-dong, Kangnam-gu
Séoul, 135-080
Téléphone: + (82 2) 567 27 29
Téléfax: + (82 2) 567 26 77 d) Pour les produits pour la santé et l'hygiène et les produits cosmétiques:
International Cooperation Division
(Division de la coopé ration internationale)
Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW)
(Ministère de la santé et de la protection sociale) 2, Choongang-dong, Kwachon Kyunggi-do 427-760
Téléphone: + (82 2) 503 75 24
Téléfax: + (82 2) 504 64 18
Costa Rica
Dirección General de Normas y Unidades de Medida
(Direction générale des normes et des unités de mesure)
Ministerio de Economía, Industria y Comercio (Ministère de l'économie, de l'industrie et du commerce)
Apartado Postal 1736-2050
San Pedro de Montes de Oca
Téléphone: + (506) 283 51 33
Téléfax: + (506) 283 51 33 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 8
Cuba
Oficina Nacional de Normalización
(Office national de normalisation) Director de Relaciones Internacionales Calle E No. 261 (entre 11 et 13 heures)
La Havane
Téléphone: + (53 7) 30 00 22
+ (53 7) 30 08 25 + (53 7) 30 08 35 Téléfax: + (53 7) 33 80 48
Télex: + (53 7) 51 22 45
Personne à contacter: M. Javier Acosta Alemany
Danemark
Dansk Standard
(Association danoise de normalisation)
Kollegievej 6
DK-2920 Charlottenland
Téléphone: + (45) 39 96 61 01
Téléfax: + (45) 39 96 61 02 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Egypte
Egyptian Organization for Standardization
(Organisation égyptienne de normalisation) 2 Latin America Street Garden City L e C a i r e
Téléphone: + (20 2) 354 07 71
+ (20 2) 354 97 20 Téléfax: + (20 2) 355 78 41 Télex: 93296 EOS UN Courrier électronique: [email protected] G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 9
El Salvador
Ministerio de Economía
(Ministère de l'économie)
Dirección de Política Comercial
(Direction de la politique commerciale)
División de Normas Técnicas
(Division des normes techniques) Centro de Gobierno, Plan Maestro Edificio c-2 Alameda Juan Pablo II y Calle Guadalupe San Salvador, El Salvador, C.A.
Téléphone: + (503) 281 11 22
+ (503) 281 11 55 Téléfax: + (503) 221 47 71
Espagne
a) Ministerio de Comercio y Turismo
(Ministère du commerce et du tourisme)
Dirección General de Comercio Exterior
(Direction générale du commerce extérieur)
Subdirección General de Control,
Inspección y Normalización del Comercio Exterior
(Sous-Direction générale du contrôle, de l'inspection
et de la normalisation du commerce extérieur)
Paseo de la Castellana, 162, 6a planta 28046 Madrid
Téléphone: + (34 1) 349 37 70
+ (34 1) 349 37 64
+ (34 1) 349 37 54
Téléfax: + (34 1) 349 37 40 + (34 1) 349 37 77
b) Point d'information pour ce qui concerne les normes nationales espagnoles:
Asociación Española de Normaliz ación y de Certificación (AENOR)
(Association espagnole de normalisation et de certification)
Calle Fernández de la Hoz, 52
28010 Madrid
Téléphone: + (34 1) 310 48 51
Téléfax: + (34 1) 310 49 76 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 10
Etats-Unis
National Center for Standard s and Certification Information
(Centre national d'information sur les normes et la certification) National Institute of Standards and Technology
(Institut national des normes et de la technologie)
Bldg. 820, Room 164
Gaithersburg, MD 20899
Téléphone: + (1 301) 975 40 40
Téléfax: + (1 301) 926 15 59 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Le point d'information des Etats-Unis, à l'Institut national des normes et de la
technologie, garde une collection des normes, spécifi-cations, méthodes d'essai, codes et
pratiques recommandées. Cette documen-tation de référence comprend les réglementations
des institutions du gouvernement des Etats-Unis et les normes des organisations privées à activité normative des Etats-Unis et des organi smes nationaux étrangers et internationaux de
normalisation. Le point d'information ré pond à toutes les demandes de renseignements
concernant les règlements, normes, et procé dures d'évaluation de la conformité émanant du
gouvernement fédéral, d'institutions des Etats et d'organismes privés.
Fidji
Department of Fair Trading and Consumer Affairs
(Département des pratiques commerciales loyales et de la consommation)
Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Public Enterprises
(Ministère du commerce, de l'industrie et des entreprises publiques) P.O. Box 2112 Suva
Téléphone: +(679) 305 411
Téléfax: +(679) 302 617
Finlande
Suomen Standardisoimisliitto (SFS)
(Association finlandaise de normalisation) P.O. Box 116 FIN-00241 Helsinki
Téléphone: + (358 0) 149 93 31
Téléfax: + (358 0) 146 49 14 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 11
France
Centre d'information sur les normes et règlements techniques (CINORTECH)
Association française de normalisation (AFNOR) Tour Europe Cedex 07 F-92049 Paris La Défense
Téléphone: + (33 1) 42 91 56 69
Téléfax: + (33 1) 42 91 56 56 Télex: 611974 AFNOR F
(adresser à l'attention du CINORTECH)
Personne à contacter: Mme Martine Vaquier
La mise en oeuvre du Centre est réalisée. Il est possible d'obtenir auprès du
CINORTECH tous les renseignements sur les normes élaborées par l'AFNOR ainsi que sur les règlements techniques et systèmes de certification.
Ghana
The Director
Ghana Standards Board
(Bureau ghanéen de normalisation) P.O. Box 245 Accra-Ghana
Téléphone: + (233 21) 776 171
Téléfax: + (233 21) 776 092
Grèce
Hellenic Organization for Standardization (ELOT)
(Organisation hellénique de normalisation)
Information Center
(Centre d'information)
313, rue Acharnon
GR 11145 Athènes
Téléphone: + (30 1) 201 98 90
Téléfax: + (30 1) 202 07 76 Télex: 21 96.21 ELOT GR Courrier électronique: [email protected] G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 12
Hong Kong, Chine
Industry Department
(Département de l'industrie) 36th Floor, Immigration Tower 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai
Hong Kong
Téléphone: + (852 28) 29 48 24
(Sous-Directeur général de la Division des
services de la qualité)
Téléfax: + (852 28) 24 13 02
Télex: 50151 INDHK HX
Hongrie
Magyar Szabvanyugyi Testulet
(Office hongrois de normalisation) 25 Ulloi ut
H-1091 Budapest
Téléphone: + (36 1) 218 30 11
Téléfax: + (36 1) 218 51 25
Inde
Bureau of Indian Standards
(Institut indien de normalisation)
Manak Bhavan
Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg 9 New Delhi 110 002
Téléphone: + (91 11) 323 09 10
Téléfax: + (91 11) 323 40 62
Télex: (031)-65870 - Référence réponse "BIS/IN"
Indonésie
Badan Standardisasi Nasional (BSN)
(Office national de normalisation) Sasana Widya Sarwono Lt 5 Jalan Gatot Subroto No. 10
Djakarta 12710
Téléphone: + (62 21) 520 65 74
+ (62 21) 522 16 86 Téléfax: + (62 21) 520 65 74 Courrier électronique: [email protected] G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 13
Irlande
a) Pour les règlements techniques et les systèmes de certification:
EU/WTO Division
(Division UE/OMC) Department of Tourism and Trade
(Département du tourisme et du commerce)
Kildare Street Dublin 2
Téléphone: + (353 1) 662 14 44
Téléfax: + (353 1) 676 61 54
b) Pour les normes:
Standards Development
(Elaboration des normes) National Standards Authority of Ireland (Direction nationale de la normalisation)
Glasnevin
Dublin 9
Téléphone: + (353 1) 807 38 00
Téléfax: + (353 1) 807 38 38 Télex: 45301
Islande
Ministry for Foreign Affairs and External Trade
(Ministère des affaires étrangères et du commerce extérieur) External Trade Department (Département du commerce extérieur) Personne à contacter: M. Sverrir Júlíusson
Raudararstig 25
150 Reykjavík
Téléphone: + (354) 560 99 30
Téléfax: + (354) 562 48 78
Israël
The Standards Institution of Israel
(Institut israélien de normalisation)
42, Chaim Levanon St. Tel-Aviv 69977
Téléphone: + (972 3) 646 51 54
Téléfax: + (972 3) 641 96 83 (Directeur général)
+ (972 3) 641 27 62 (Centre d'information,
Point d'information OMC) G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 14
Italie
a) Point d'information pour ce qui concerne les notifications à l'OMC:
MICA DGPI
Ministero Industria, Commercio e Artigianato (Ministère de l'industrie, du commerce et de l'artisanat,
Direction générale de la production industrielle)
Divisione XIX (Division XIX) Via Molise 19 I-00187 Rome
Téléphone: + (39 6) 470 526 69
Téléfax: + (39 6) 478 877 48 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
b) Point d'information pour ce qui concerne les règlements techniques: Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR)
(Conseil national de la recherche)
Ufficio trasferimento, innovazioni, brevetti, normativa tecnica (Stibnot) (Office du transfert, de l'innovation, des brevets et des normes techniques) Via Tiburtina 770 I-00159 Rome
Téléphone: + (39 6) 40 758 26
Téléfax: + (39 6) 49 932 440
Courrier électronique: [email protected]
c) Point d'information en matière de norm es, sauf celles concernant l'électricité et
l'électronique, pour lesquelles il faut s'adresser au CEI:
Ente Nazionale Italiano di Unificazione (UNI)
(Institut italien de normalisation)
Via Battistotti Sassi 11-b I-20153 Milan
Téléphone: + (39 2) 70 02 41
Téléfax: + (39 2) 70 10 61 06 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
d) Point d'information en matière de normes concernant l'électricité et l'électronique:
Comitato Elettrotecnico Italiano (CEI)
(Comité électrotechnique italien) Viale Monza 259 I-20126 Milan
Téléphone: + (39 2) 25 77 31
Téléfax: + (39 2) 25 77 32 01 Courrier électronique: [email protected] G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 15
Jamaïque
Jamaica Bureau of Standards
(Office jamaïcain de normalisation) 6 Winchester Road P.O. Box 113
Kingston 10
Téléphone: + (1 809) 926 3140 6
+ (1 809) 968 2063 71 Téléfax: + (1 809) 929 47 36 Télex: 2291 STANBUR JA
Cet organisme gouvernemental est responsable de l'élaboration et de l'application des
normes; ses activités couvrent les domaines suivants:
- essais en laboratoire;
- certification de conformité des produits et certification de systèmes;
- données techniques;
- formation;
- évaluation du rendement énergétique; - métrologie; - certification de conformité à ISO 9000; et - accréditation de laboratoires.
Japon
a) Standards Information Service
1
(Service d'information sur les normes) First International Organization Division (Première division des organisations internationales) Economic Affairs Bureau
(Direction des affaires économiques)
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ministère des affaires étrangères) 2-2-1 Kasumigaseki, Chiyoda-ku T o k y o
Téléphone: + (81 3) 35 80 33 11
Téléfax: + (81 3) 35 03 31 36 Télex: C. J22350 A. GAIMU A-B J22350
1 Le Service d'information sur les normes créé dans le cadre du Ministère des affaires étrangères répond
principalement aux demandes de renseignements concerna nt les médicaments, les cosmétiques, les appareils
médicaux, les produits alimentaires, les additifs alimenta ires, le matériel de télécommunication, les véhicules
auto-mobiles, les navires, les aéronefs et le matériel ferroviaire (à l'exclusion des demandes de renseignements
concernant les normes industrielles japonaises - JIS - qui sont traitées par la JETRO).
G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 16
b) Standards Information Service
2
(Service d'information sur les normes) Information Service Department (Département des services d'information) Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
(Organisation japonaise du commerce extérieur)
2-2-5 Toranomon, Minato-ku T o k y o
Téléphone: + (81 3) 35 82 62 70
Téléfax: + (81 3) 35 89 41 79
Télex: C. J24378 A. JETRO A-B J24378
En rapport avec les services de ces deux organismes, il a été créé au Ministère des
affaires étrangères (MOFA) un Bureau de l'accord sur les normes. Les demandes de
renseignements peuvent être rédigées da ns une langue de travail de l'OMC.
Kenya
The Managing Director
Kenya Bureau of Standards (Office kényen des normes) P.O. Box 54974
Nairobi
Téléphone: + (254 2) 50 22 10-9
Téléfax: + (254 2) 50 32 93 Télex: 252 52 "VIWANGO" Courrier électronique: KEBS@ARGO GN.APC.ORG
Liechtenstein
Office for foreign Affairs
(Bureau des affaires étrangères) Heiligkreuz 14
9490 Vaduz
Liechtenstein
2 Le Service d'information sur les normes créé dans le cadre de la JETRO répond principalement aux
demandes de renseignements concernant le matériel électrique, les appareils à gaz, les appareils de mesure, les
produits alimen-taires, les additifs alimentaires, etc. Les demandes de renseignements concernant les
normes JIS applicables aux appareils médicaux, aux véhicules automobiles, aux navires, aux aéronefs et au
matériel ferroviaire sont traitées par la JETRO. G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 17
Luxembourg
Inspection du travail et des mines (ITM)
Rue Zithe 26 Boîte postale 27 L-2010 Luxembourg
Téléphone: + (352) 478 61 50
Téléfax: + (352) 491 447
Macao
Macau Government Economic Services
(Services économiques du gouvernement de Macao)
1-3 Rua do Dr. Pedro José Lobo
Edificio "Luso Internacional" 25th floor Macao
Téléfax: + (853) 59 03 10
Malaisie
Standard and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM)
(Institut de normalisation et de recherche industrielle de Malaisie)
Persiaran Dato' Menteri Section 2, P.O. Box 7035
40911 SHAH ALAM
Selangor Darul Ehsan
Téléphone: + (60 3) 559 26 01
+ (60 3) 559 16 30 Téléfax: + (60 3) 550 80 95
Télex: SIRIM MA 38672
Malawi
Malawi Bureau of Standards
P.O. Box 946 B l a n t y r e
Téléphone: + (265) 670 488
Téléfax: + (265) 670 756
Télex: 44325 "MSD" MI G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 18
Maroc
Ministère du commerce, de l'industrie et de l'artisanat
Direction de la normalisation et de la promotion de la qualité
Service de la normalisation industrielle marocaine (SNIMA)
Quartier administratif-Rabat-Chellah
Téléphone: + (212) 776 63 17
+ (212) 776 66 98 Téléfax: + (212) 776 62 96
Maurice
Mauritius Standards Bureau
(Bureau mauricien des normes)
Moka
Téléphone: + (230) 433 36 48
Téléfax: + (230) 433 50 51 + (230) 433 51 50
Mexique
Lic. Carmen Quintanilla Madero
Direccíon General de Normas (Direction générale des normes) Av. Puente de Tecamachalco No. 6, 3° piso Col. Lomas de Tecamachalco
C.P. 53950
Naucalpan, Mexico
Téléphone: + (52 5) 729 94 80
Téléfax: + (52 5) 729 94 84 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
[email protected]
Mongolie
Mongolian National Centre for Standardization and Metrology
(Centre national mongol de normalisation et de métrologie) Peace Street 46 A Ulaanbaatar 51
Mongolie
Téléphone: + (976 1) 358 349
Téléfax: + (976 1) 358 032 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 19
Mozambique
Instituto Nacional de Normalização e Qualidade
(Institut national de la nor malisation et de la qualité)
Av. 25 de Setembro, 1179 2° andar Maputo
P.O. Box 2983 Maputo
Téléphone + (258 1) 42 14 09
+ (258 1) 42 14 98 Téléfax: + (258 1) 42 45 85 Télex: 6-933 INNOQ MO
Myanmar
Directorate of Investment and Company Administration (DICA)
(Direction du financement et de l'administration des entreprises) Ministry of National Planning and Economic Development (Ministère de la planification natio nale et du développement économique)
Merchant Street, 653-691
Yangon
Téléphone: + (95 1) 822 07
+ (95 1) 720 52 + (95 1) 752 29 Téléfax: + (95 1) 821 01
Télex: 21368 INVEST BM
Namibie
Namibia Standards Information and Quality Office (NSIQO)
(Office namibien d'information sur l es normes et de la qualité des normes)
Private Bag 13340
Windhoek
Téléphone: + (264) 61 283 7111
Téléfax: + (264) 61 220 227
Nigéria
The Director-General
Standards Organization of Nigeria
(Organisation nigériane de normalisation)
Federal Secretariat 9th floor, Phase 1 Ikoyi, Lagos
Téléphone: + (234 1) 68 26 15
Téléfax: + (234 1) 68 18 20 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 20
Norvège
Norges Standardiseringsforbund
(Association norvégienne de normalisation) P.O. Box 7020 Homansbyen (Hegdehaugsveien 31)
N-0306 Oslo 3
Téléphone: + (47) 22 04 92 00
Téléfax: + (47) 22 04 92 11 Télex: 19050 nsf n
Nouvelle-Zélande
Standards New Zealand
(Normalisation néo-zélandaise) Standards House 155 The Terrace Private Bag 2439
Wellington
Téléphone: + (64 4) 498 59 90
Téléfax: + (64 4) 498 59 9
Ouganda
Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS)
(Office ougandais de normalisation)
Plot M 217, Nakawa Industrial Area
P.O. Box 6329 Kampala
Téléphone: + (256 41) 22 23 69
+ (256 41) 22 23 67
Pakistan
a) Pour la normalisation et la certification qui relèvent du Pakistan Standards Institution
(Institut pakistanais de normalisation):
Pakistan Standards Institution
(Institut pakistanais de normalisation) 39 Garden Road
Saddar, Karachi 74400
Téléphone: + (92 21) 77 29 527
Téléfax: + (92 21) 77 28 124 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 21
b) Pour les règlements techniques concerna nt l'innocuité des aliments et la santé
publique:
Ministry of Health, Social Welfare and Population Planning
(Ministère de la santé, de l'action social e et de la planification démographique)
Government of Pakistan
Secretariat Block "C"
Islamabad
Téléphone: + (92 51) 820 930
Téléfax: + (92 51) 829 703
Papouasie-Nouvelle-Guinée
Director General
National Institute of Standards and Industrial Technology (NISIT)
(Institut national de normalisation et de technologie industrielle)
P.O. Box 3042 BOROKO
National Capital District
Port Moresby
Téléphone: + (675) 323 18 52
Téléfax: + (675) 325 87 93
Pays-Bas
a) Point d'information mentionné à l'article 10, paragraphe 1.1:
Ministry of Finance
(Ministère des finances) Central Licensing Office for Imports and Exports (Office central des licences d'importation et d'exportation) Tax and Customs Administration
(Administration fiscale et services douaniers)
Section EEC/WTO - Notifications
(Section CEE/OMC - Notifications)
P.O. Box 30003
NL - 9700 RD Groningue
Téléphone: + (31 50) 52 39 178
+ (31 50) 52 39 275
Téléfax: + (31 50) 52 39 219
Courrier électronique/
X.400: C = NL; A = 400NET; P = CDIU
S = NOTIF; OUI = CDUI
Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Le CDIU est responsable de la mise en oeuvre des réglementatio ns dans le domaine
du commerce international ainsi que des tâch es d'information sur les réglementations
techniques, y compris leur notification. G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 22
b) Point d'information mentionné à l'article 10, paragraphe 1.2:
Nederlands Normalisatie Instituut (NNI) (Institut néerlandais de normalisation) P.O. Box 5059 NL - 2600 GB Delft
Téléphone: + (31 15) 69 02 55
Téléfax: + (31 15) 69 01 30
c) Point d'information mentionné à l'article 10, paragraphe 1.3:
Raad voor Accreditatie
(Conseil de l'accréditation)
P.O. Box 2768
NL - 3500 GT Utrecht
Téléphone: + (31 34) 28 94 500
Téléfax: + (31 34) 23 94 539
Pérou
Comisión de Reglamentos Técnicos y Comerciales
(Commission des règlements techniques et commerciaux)
Instituto de Defensa de la Competencia y de la Propiedad Intelectual
(Institut de protection de la concurren ce et de la propriété intellectuelle)
Calle La Prosa, 138 Lima 41, Pérou
Téléphone: + (51 1) 224 07 88
Téléfax: + (51 1) 224 03 48 + (51 1) 224 03 47 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Philippines
Bureau of Product Standards
(Office de normalisation des produits) Department of Trade and Industry (Ministère du commerce et de l'industrie)
3/F Trade and Industry Bldg.
361 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue
Metro Manila, Makati City 1200
Téléphone: + (63 2) 890 49 65
Téléfax: + (63 2) 890 49 26 + (63 2) 890 51 30 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Adresse postale: P.O. Box 3228 MCPO G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 23
Pologne
Polski Komitet Normalizacyjny (PKN)
(Comité polonais de normalisation) WTO-TBT National Enquiry Point (Point d'information national OTC-OMC)
P.O. Box 411
ul. Elektoralna 2 PL-00-950 Varsovie
Téléphone: + (48 22) 620 02 41 poste 651
+ (48 22) 624 71 22
Téléfax: + (48 22) 624 71 22
Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Personne à contacter: M. Marek Żarnoch
Portugal
Instituto Português da Qualidade
(Institut portugais de la qualité)
Rua C à Avenida dos Três Vales P-2825 Monte da Caparica
Téléphone: + (351 1) 294 81 00
Téléfax: + (351 1) 294 82 23 + (351 1) 294 81 01
+ (351 1) 294 82 22
Courrier électronique/ X400: C = PT; A = MAILPAC; P = GTW-MS; O = IPQ; OU 1 = IPQM; S = PINCDCP Internet: [email protected]
République dominicaine
a) Pour les produits agricoles:
Secretaría de Estado de Agricultura
(Ministère de l'agriculture) Km. 6 ½ Autopista Duarte Urbanización Los Jardines del Norte
Saint-Domingue, D.N.
Téléphone: + (1 809) 547 38 88
Téléfax: + (1 809) 227 12 68
Personne à contacter: M. Luis Toral C ., (Secretario de Estado de Agricultura) G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 24
b) Pour les produits industriels:
Dirección General de Normas y Sistemas (DIGENOR)
(Direction générale des normes et des systèmes) Secretaría de Estado de Industria y Comercio (Ministère de l'industrie et du commerce)
Edif. de Oficinas Gubernamentales Juan Pablo Duarte, piso 11
Ave. México, esq. Leopoldo Navarro,
Saint-Domingue, D.N.
Téléphone: + (1 809) 686 22 05
Téléfax: + (1 809) 688 38 43
Personne à contacter: M. Luis Mejía
c) Pour les produits pharmaceutiques et les additifs alimentaires:
Secretaría de Estado de Salud Pú blica y Asistencia Social (SESPAS)
(Ministère de la santé publique et de l'aide sociale) Av. San Cristóbal, Esq. Tiradentes
Saint-Domingue, D.N.
Téléphone: + (1 898) 541 84 03
+ (1 898) 541 31 21 Téléfax: + (1 809) 547 28 43
Personne à contacter: M. Victoriano García Santos, (Secretario de Estado de Salud
Pública y Asistencia Social)
République slovaque
Slovenský ústav technickej normalizácie
(Institut slovaque de normalisation) WTO Enquiry Point (Point d'information OMC)
Karloveská cesta 63
842 45 Bratislava
Adresse pour le public
:
Stefani čova 3
814 39 Bratislava
Téléphone: + (421 7) 397 886
Téléfax: + (421 7) 397 886 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 25
République tchèque
Czech Office for Standards, Metrology and Testing
(Direction de la normalisation, de la métrologie et des essais de la République tchèque) WTO Enquiry Point
(Point d'information OMC)
Biskupský dv ůr 5
110 02 Prague 1
Téléphone: + (420 2) 232 45 64
+ (420 2) 218 02 170
Téléfax: + (420 2) 232 45 64
Roumanie
Institut roumain de normalisation
13, rue Jean Louis Calderon Secteur 2
Bucarest
Téléphone: + (40 1) 211 32 96
Téléfax: + (40 1) 210 08 33 Télex: (065) 11 312 ins r
Royaume-Uni
a) Point d'information prévu à l'article 10.1: WTO Section
(Section OMC) Department of Trade and Industry (Département du commerce et de l'industrie)
Room 360
Kingsgate House
66-74 Victoria Street Londres SW1E 6SW
Téléphone: + (44 171) 2 15 45 11
Téléfax: + (44 171) 2 15 45 12
b) Point d'information prévu à l'article 10.3:
BSI Information Centre
(Centre d'information du BSI)
389 Chiswick High Road
Londres W4 4 AL
Téléphone: + (44 181) 996 71 11
Téléfax: + (44 181) 996 70 48 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 26
Sainte-Lucie
St. Lucia Bureau of Standards
(Bureau de la normalisation de Sainte-Lucie) Government Buildings Block B, 4th Floor
John Compton Highway
Castries
Téléphone: + (1 758) 453 00 49
Téléfax: + (1 758) 453 73 47
Singapour
a) Pour la normalisation et la certifica tion qui relèvent du Singapore Productivity and
Standards Board (Office singapourien de productivité et de normalisation):
Singapore Productivity and Standards Board
(Office de la productivité et des normes de Singapour)
1 Science Park Drive
PSB Building
Singapour 118221
Téléphone: + (65) 778 77 77
Téléfax: + (65) 776 12 80
b) Pour les règlements techniques concernant les appareils et accessoires électriques
spécifiques:
Public Utilities Board
(Office des services publics de distribution) 111 Somerset Road 15-01 Singapour 238164
Téléphone: + (65) 235 88 88
Téléfax: + (65) 731 30 20
c) Pour les règlements techniques concernant les produits alimentaires transformés:
Food Control Department
(Département du contrôle des produits alimentaires) Ministry of the Environment
(Ministère de l'environnement)
Environment Building 40 Scotts Road Singapour 228231
Téléphone: + (65) 732 90 15
Téléfax: + (65) 731 98 44 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 27
d) Pour les règlements techniques concernant le poisson, la viande, les fruits et les
légumes:
Primary Production Department
(Département des productions primaires) National Development Building
5 Maxwell Road
Singapour 169110
Téléphone: + (65) 222 12 11
Téléfax: + (65) 220 60 68 Télex: RS 28851 PPD
Slovénie
Standards and Metrology Institute of the Republic of Slovenia (SMIS)
(Institut de normalisation et de mé trologie de la République de Slovénie)
WTO-TBT Enquiry Point (Point d'information OTC-OMC)
Kotnikova 6
SI-1000 Ljubljana
Téléphone: + (386 61) 178 3041
Téléfax: + (386 61) 178 3196 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Sri Lanka
Director of Commerce
Department of Commerce (Département du commerce) "Rakshana Mandiraya" 21 Vauxhall Street
Colombo 2
Téléphone: + (94 1) 29 733
+ (94 1) 43 61 14 Téléfax: + (94 1) 43 02 33 Télex: 21908 COMMERCE G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 28
Suède
a) Point d'information prévu à l'article 10.1:
Kommerskollegium
(Direction nationale du commerce) WTO-TBT Enquiry Point
(Point d'information OTC-OMC)
Box 6803 S-113 86 Stockholm
Téléphone: + (46 8) 690 48 00
Téléfax: + (46 8) 690 48 40
b) Point d'information prévu à l'article 10.2:
SIS Service AB
WTO-TBT Enquiry Point (Point d'information OTC-OMC) Box 6455
S-103 82 Stockholm
Téléphone: + (46 8) 610 30 00
Téléfax: + (46 8) 30 77 57
Suisse
Association suisse de normalisation (SNV)
Mühlebachstrasse 54
CH-8008 Zurich
Téléphone: + (41 1) 254 54 54
Téléfax: + (41 1) 254 54 74 Courrier électronique/
X400: C = ch/ A = 400net/ P = snv/ O = snv/
S = switec
La SNV a été instituée par l'Office fé déral des affaires économiques extérieures
comme point d'information. G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 29
Swaziland
Quality Assurance Unit
(Section d'assurance de la qualité) Ministry of Enterprise and Employment (Ministère de l'entreprise et de l'emploi)
P.O. Box 451
Mbabane
Téléphone: + (268) 432 01
Téléfax: + (268) 447 11
Tanzanie
The Principal Secretary
Ministry of Industries and Trade (Ministère de l'industrie et du commerce) P.O. Box 9503 Dar Es Salaam
Téléphone: + (255 51) 117 222-5
Téléfax: + (255 51) 46919 Télex: 41689
Thaïlande
Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI)
(Institut thaïlandais de normalisation industrielle)
Ministry of Industry
(Ministère de l'industrie) R a m a V I S t r e e t Bangkok 10400
Téléphone: + (66 2) 202 34 01
+ (66 2) 202 35 08
+ (66 2) 202 35 12 Téléfax: + (66 2) 247 87 34 + (66 2) 202 34 02 Courrier électronique: [email protected] G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 30
Trinité-et-Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards
(Office trinidadien de normalisation) The Director P.O. Box 467
Port of Spain
Téléphone: + (1 809) 662 88 27
Téléfax: + (1 809) 663 43 35 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Tunisie
a) Point d'information pour les normes:
Institut national de la normalisation et de la propriété industrielle (INNORPI)
Personne à contacter: M. Ali Ben Gaied Cité El Khadhra par Rue Alain Savary 1003 Tunis le Belvédère
B.P. 23
1012 Tunis
Téléphone: + (216 1) 78 59 22
Téléfax: + (216 1) 78 15 63
Renseignements sur les normes, les systèmes de normalisation et de certification, la
propriété industrielle, la qualité et les re lations avec les organismes étrangers de
normalisation et de certification.
Services fournis dans les domaines de la prom otion de la qualité, de la certification et
de la propriété industrielle; autres servi ces, y compris la vente de normes et de
projets de normes, l'accès aux bases de données locales et étrangères et la
consultation des normes tunisiennes et étrangères.
b) Point d'information pour les semences et les plants:
Ministère de l'agriculture
Direction générale de la production agricole Sous-direction du contrôle et de la certification des semences et plants
Personne à contacter: M. Aissa Bouziri 30, rue Alain Savary
1002 Tunis Belvédère
Téléphone: + (216 1) 80 04 19
Téléfax: + (216 1) 80 04 19
Renseignements sur les normes relatives aux semences et aux plants. Documents disponibles: bulletins d'analyse et textes de la réglementation et des
normes. G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 31
c) Point d'information pour les règlements techniques relatifs aux télécommunications:
Ministère des communications
Personne à contacter: M. Ridha Guellouz 3 bis, rue d'Angleterre 1000 Tunis
Téléphone: + (216 1) 33 34 36
Téléfax: + (216 1) 33 26 85
Documents disponibles: textes réglementaires et techniques.
d) Point d'information pour les pesticides et les désinfectants à usage domestique: Ministère de la santé publique
Direction de l'hygiène du milieu et de la protection de l'environnement
Personne à contacter: M. Shlaheddine Cheniti 5 rue Chaabane El B' houri 1002 Tunis
Téléphone: + (216 1) 79 17 15
Téléfax: + (216 1) 79 09 73
Renseignements sur les aspects réglementa ires et organisati onnels relatifs aux
pesticides à usage domestique et aux désinfectants.
Documents disponibles: procédures d'agrément et d'attribution pour les pesticides à
usage domestique et les désinfectants.
e) Point d'information pour les produits pharmaceutiques, les accessoires médicaux et
les produits destinés à une alimentation particulière:
Ministère de la santé publique
Direction de la pharmacie et du médicament Personne à contacter: Professeur Amor Toumi 31 rue Khartoum
1002 Tunis
Téléphone: + (216 1) 79 68 24
Téléfax: + (216 1) 79 78 16
Renseignements sur les aspects réglemen taires et organisationnels relatifs aux:
- médicaments à usage humain;
- médicaments à usage vétérinaire;
- sérums et vaccins;
- accessoires pharmaceutiques; - produits cosmétiques.
Documents disponibles: législations et procédures d'agrément et d'attribution pour les
produits susmentionnés. G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 32
f) Point d'information pour les autres règlements techniques: Ministère du commerce
Direction générale de la co ncurrence et du commerce intérieur
6, rue Venezuela 1002 Tunis Belvédère
Téléphone: + (216 1) 78 08 15
Téléfax: + (216 1) 78 18 47
Renseignements sur tous les règlements t echniques qui ne sont pas visés plus haut.
Turquie
a) Point d'information prévu à l'article 10.1: Prime Ministry
(Cabinet du Premier Ministre) Undersecretariat for Foreign Trade (Sous-Secrétariat au commerce extérieur) General Directorate for Standardization for Foreign Trade
(Direction générale de la normalisation du commerce extérieur)
06510 Emek-Ankara
Téléphone: + (90 312) 212 58 96
+ (90 312) 212 87 17 Téléfax: + (90 312) 212 87 68 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
b) Point d'information prévu à l'article 10.1.2:
Turkish Standards Institution
(Institut turc de normalisation) Necatibey Cad. No. 112 Bakanhklar 06100 Ankara
Téléphone: + (90 312) 418 01 15
Téléfax: + (90 312) 418 01 16 Courrier électronique: [email protected]
Uruguay
Dirección General para Asuntos Económicos Internacionales
(Direction générale des affa ires économiques internationales)
Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores
(Ministère des relations extérieures) Colonia 1206 Montevideo
Téléphone: + (598 2) 902 06 18
Téléfax: + (598 2) 901 74 13 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 33
Zambie
a) Permanent Secretary/Attention of Director of Trade
Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry (Ministère du commerce et de l'industrie) P.O. Box 31968, Lusaka, Zambie
Téléphone: + (260 1) 228 301/9
Téléfax: + (260 1) 226 673
b) Zoo-Sanitary (Animal/animal material)
(Service zoosanitaire - Animaux/produits d'origine animale)
Senior Veterinary Officer
Department of Animal Production and Health
(Département de la producti on et de la santé animales)
Mulungushi House P.O. Box 50060, Lusaka, Zambie
Téléphone: + (260 1) 250 274
+ (260 1) 252 608
Téléfax: + (260 1) 236 283
c) Phytosanitary Service (Plant Material)
(Service phytosanitaire - Produits végétaux) Mount Makulu Research Station (Centre de recherche du Mont Makulu)
P/B 7 Chilanga, Zambie
Téléphone: + (260 1) 278 655
+ (260 1) 278 242 Téléfax: + (260 1) 230 62 22
Zimbabwe
a) Normes, règlements techniques et systèmes de certification:
The Director General
Standards Association of Zimbabwe (Association zimbabwéenne de normalisation) P.O. Box 2259 Northend Close, Northridge Park
Borrowdale, Harare
Téléphone: + (263 4) 882 017
+ (263 4) 882 018 + (263 4) 882 019 Téléfax: + (263 4) 882 020 G/TBT/ENQ/11
Page 34
b) Produits agricoles: The Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture (Ministère de l'agriculture) 1 Borrowdale Road
P/Bag 7701
Causeway, Harare
Téléphone: + (263 4) 708 061
Téléfax: + (263 4) 734 646
__________
| 6,207 | 43,539 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_SCMQ2_PAN6R1.pdf
|
Q_G_SCMQ2_PAN6R1
|
. /.RESTRICTEDWORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONG/SCM/Q2/PAN/6/Rev.1*
13 April 1999
(99-1457)
Committee on Subsidies
and Countervailing MeasuresOriginal: Spanish
SUBSIDIES
Replies to Questions Posed by the European Communities1
Regarding the New and Full Notification of Panama2
Revision
The following communication, dated 23 March 1999, has been received from the Permanent
Mission of Panama.
_______________
Panama submitted on 16 November 1998 its new and full notification of subsidy programme
to the WTO pursuant to Article XVI:1 GATT 1994 and Article 25 of the WTO Subsidies Agreement.
In this respect, the Community requests further clarification on a number of programmes whichappear to be specific and were not included in the notification.
Question 1. Fiscal incentives for compan ies located in the Colon Free Trade Zone
The benefits consist of complete exemption from taxation on imports and re-exports.
There are no taxes on the export of capital or the payment of dividends. In addition, there are
reduced income tax rates on earn ings from re-export sales. Furthermore, firms located in the
CFZ are exempt from import duties as well as from guarantees.
Reply
In accordance with Article XVI of GATT 1994, contracting parties that maintain or grant an
export subsidy should notify it to the WTO. As the enterprises set up in the Colón Free Trade Zone
(ZLC) are engaged in the marketing of foreign (non-originating) products in the form of
re-exportation, and not in producing or processing goods, the WTO rules on subsidies and
countervailing measures do not apply to re-export activities carried out in the free trade zone.
Question 2. Benefits for companies located in Export Processing Zones
Pursuant to Law 25 (passed on 30 November 1992) companies located in EPZs are
exempt from taxes, duties and other charges related to the importation of machinery,
equipment, raw materials, semi-processed goods and other materials such as packaging, fuel
and lubricants used in the manufacturing proces s. In addition, an exemption is granted from
*English only.
1G/SCM/Q2/1.
2G/SCM/N/38/PAN.G/SCM/Q2/PAN/6/Rev.1
Page 2
income tax on profits arising from exports, and exemption from export sales taxes, as well as
from taxes on capital and assets of the export industry.
Reply
In accordance with Article 25.2 of the WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing
Measures, "Members shall notify any subsidy as defined in paragraph 1 of Article 1, which is specific
within the meaning of Article 2, granted or maintain ed within their territories". Accordingly, Panama
did not notify the above-mentioned programme because it does not consider it to be specific within
the meaning of Article 2.
It takes this view because the enterprises set up in these zones are not under any legal
impediment to selling their products on the domestic market after payment of the corresponding
duties. Furthermore, the incentives are not aimed at any product in particular or any specific industry.
Indeed, the main purpose of the processing zones is to encourage investment and create employment.
Question 3. Petroleum Export Zones
The Government of Panama enacted Decree No. 29 (Executive Decree) dated
14 July 1992, allowing the creation of Petroleum Export Zones (PEZ) in specially-designated
areas in Panama. Decree No. 29 allows any foreign or national company to establish operations
in a PEZ to produce, refine and export petroleum products. Companies operating out of thesePEZs are exempt of any municipal or federal taxes.
Reply
Panama would like further clarification as to the meaning of the question: does it refer to
subsidies supposedly granted by Panama to enterprises located within the Petroleum Export Zones, or
to enterprises operating outside such zones, as the last sentence of the question would appear to
suggest.
__________
| 594 | 3,895 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_C_W51.pdf
|
Q_G_C_W51
|
RESTRICTED
WORLD TRADE G/C/W/51
27August 1996
ORGANIZATION(96-3377)
Original: Spanish COUNCIL FOR TRADE INGOODS
19September 1996
EXTENSION OFWAIVER UNDER PARAGRAPH 6
OFARTICLE XVOFTHE GATT 1994
Draft Decision
Communication from Cuba
Thefollowing communication, dated 19August 1996, hasbeenreceived fromthePermanent
Mission ofCuba.
_______________
ThePermanent Mission ofCuba attaches herewith thedraftdecision ontheextension ofthe
waiver granted toCuba under Article XV:6 oftheGeneral Agreement onTariffs andTrade 1994,
withtherequest thatitbetranslated intotheother languages assoonaspossible andofficially circulated
toMembers withaviewtotheconsultations tobeheldinSeptember onwaivers andtoitssubsequent
approval attheforthcoming meeting oftheCouncil forTrade inGoods tobeheldon19September 1996.
./.G/C/W/51
Page2
DRAFT DECISION
CUBA -ARTICLE XV:6
Extension ofWaiver
Noting therequest bytheGovernment ofCuba foranextension ofthewaiver relieving itfrom
theprovisions ofparagraph 6ofArticle XVoftheGeneral Agreement onTariffs andTrade 1994,
which provide thatanycontracting party which ceases tobeamember oftheInternational Monetary
Fund shallenter intoaspecial exchange agreement withtheWTO;
Consideringthat,owingtospecialcircumstances,theapplicationoftheprovisionsofparagraph6
ofArticle XVtoCuba would onceagain raiseanumber oflegalandpractical difficulties;
Noting theassurances given bytheGovernment ofCuba thatitwillactinexchange matters
inconformity withtheprinciples andintent oftheGeneral Agreement;
TheMembers, acting pursuant totheprovisions ofparagraph 3ofArticle IXoftheAgreement
ontheWTO,
Decide:
1. Without derogation from anyother provisions ofArticle XVandsubject totheterms and
conditions setoutbelow, toextend thewaiver granted totheGovernment ofCuba relieving itfrom
theprovisions ofparagraph 6ofthesaidArticle.
2. Theextension shallbesubject totheGovernment ofCuba satisfying theWTO thatitsaction
inexchange matters isfullyconsistent withtheprinciples andintent oftheGeneral Agreement.
3. Cuba shallconsult atanytime, subject tothirty days'notice, withtheWTO attherequest
ofanymember which considers thatCuba hastaken exchange action which mayhaveasignificant
effect ontheapplication oftheprovisions oftheGeneral Agreement orisinconsistent withitsprinciples.
4. If,asaresult oftheconsultation referred toinparagraph 3,theWTO findsthatCuba hastaken
exchange action contrary totheintent oftheGeneral Agreement, theymaydetermine thatthepresent
Decision shallcease toapply andCuba willthereafter bebound bytheprovisions ofparagraph 6of
Article XVoftheGeneral Agreement.
| 237 | 2,585 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_S_DCSW_SWZ.pdf
|
S_S_DCSW_SWZ
|
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIO S/DCS/W/SWZ
24 de enero de 2003
(03-0513)
Comercio de Servicios Original: inglés
SWAZILANDIA
Proyecto de Lista convertida de Compromisos Específicos
1
El documento adjunto contiene un proyecto de la Lista convertida de Compromisos Específicos de Swazilandia, en formato Word. Este documento no sustituye los compromisos
jurídicamente vinculantes contraídos por Swazila ndia, en su lista de Compromisos Específicos
(GATS/SC/81).
Adjunto al proyecto de lista convertida figura la Lista de Exenciones del Artículo II (NMF) de
Swazilandia (GATS/EL/81) en formato Word. Los proyectos de la Lista convertida y de la Lista de Exenciones del trato NMF convertidas
fueron preparados por la Secretaría, a petición de los Miembros, para facilitar el proceso de las
negociaciones, incluida la presentación de ofertas iniciales.
_______________
1 Este documento se ha preparado, en inglés solament e, bajo la responsabilidad de la Secretaría y sin
perjuicio de las posiciones de los Miembros ni de sus derechos y obligaciones en el marco de la OMC. S/DCS/W/SWZ
Página 2 SWAZILAND – SCHEDULE OF SPECIFIC COMMITMENTS
Modes of supply: 1) Cross-border 2) Consumption abroad 3) Commercial presence 4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or Subsector Limitations on Market Access Limi tations on National Treatm ent Additional Commitments
1. BUSINESS SERVICES
A. Professional Services
e) Engineering services
(CPC 8672) 1) Unbound
2) None 3) None
4) Unbound except for senior qualified
chartered engineers 1) None
2) None 3) None
4) None
f) Integrated engineering
services
(CPC 8673) 1) Unbound
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except for professional personnel
with a higher university degree or professional training and who are not
available in Swaziland 1) None
2) None
3) None
4) None
h) Medical and dental
services
(CPC 93122) 1) Unbound except for specialist doctors
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except for specialist doctors 1) None
2) None
3) None
4) None
B. Computer and Related
Services
Consultancy services
related to the installation
of computer hardware
(CPC 841)
1) None 2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except for senior computer
engineers and personnel that possess
specialized training and skill and who are not
available in Swaziland
1) None 2) None
3) None
4) None
C. Research and
Development Services
Research and
experimental development
services on natural sciences and engineering (CPC 85109) 1) Unbound
2) None
3) None 4) None 1) None
2) None
3) None 4) None S/DCS/W/SWZ
Página 3Modes of supply: 1) Cross-border 2) Consumption abroad 3) Commercial presence 4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or Subsector Limitations on Market Access Limi tations on National Treatm ent Additional Commitments
F. Other Business Services
c) Management consulting
services
(CPC 865) 1) Unbound
2) None
3) None 4) Unbound except for personnel with a senior
university degree or professional training
who are not available in Swaziland 1) None
2) None
3) None 4) None
e) Technical testing and
analysis services
(CPC 86761 to 86769) 1) Unbound
2) None
3) None 4) None 1) None
2) None
3) None 4) None
8. HEALTH RELATED
AND SOCIAL SERVICES
A. Hospital Services
(CPC 93110) 1) Unbound∗
2) None
3) None 4) Unbound except for specialist doctors 1) None
2) None 3) None
4) None
9. TOURISM AND
TRAVEL RELATED SERVICES
A. Hotel and Restaurant
Services
(CPC 64110 and 64210) 1) Unbound*
2) None 3) None
4) Unbound except for chief executives, senior
managers and chef cooks in the case of hotels and chef cooks in the case of
restaurants 1) None
2) None 3) None
4) None
_______________
∗ Unbound due to lack of technical feasibility. S/DCS/W/SWZ
Página 4 SWAZILAND – FINAL LIST OF ARTICLE II (MFN) EXEMPTIONS
Sector or Subsector Description of measure
indicating its inconsistency
with Article II Countries to which the
measure applies Intended duration Conditions creating the need for
the exemption
Financial Services
Members of the Common
Monetary Area enjoy
preferential access to the Swaziland capital and money
markets and the transfer of
funds, to or from the area of any other member of the Common
Monetary Area, is exempt from
exchange controls South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho
Indefinite
The Common Monetary Area
Agreement is aimed at the sustained
economic development of the area as a whole
Road Transportation Provisions of existing or future
bilateral or plurilateral
agreements on international road transport (including
combined transport road/rail)
reserving or limiting the
provision of a transport service
into, in, across and out of Swaziland to the contracting
parties
All countries with which
bilateral or plurilateral
agreements are in force Indefinite
The need for exemption is linked to
the regional characteristics of road
transport services
_________
| 755 | 5,156 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_Tbtn01_BRA18.pdf
|
S_G_Tbtn01_BRA18
|
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/TBT/N/BRA/18
26 de octubre de 2001
(01-5250)
Comité de Obstáculos Técnicos al Comercio Original: inglés
NOTIFICACIÓN
Se da traslado de la notificación siguiente de conformidad con el artículo 10.6.
1. Miembro del Acuerdo que notifica: BRASIL
Si procede, nombre del gobierno local de que se trate (artículos 3.2 y 7.2):
2. Organismo responsable: Instituto Nacional de Metrología, Normalización y Calidad
Industrial - INMETRO. Teléfono: +(55) 21 2563.2821. Fax: +(55) 21 2502.6542. Correo
electrónico: [email protected] . Sitio Web: www.inmetro.gov.br
Nombre y dirección (incluidos los números de teléfono y de telefax, así como las
direcciones de correo electrónico y sitios Web, en su caso) del organismo o autoridad
encargado de la tramitación de observaciones sobre la notificación, en caso de que se
trate de un organismo o autoridad diferente:
3. Notificación hecha en virtud del artículo 2.9.2 [ X ], 2.10.1 [ ], 5.6.2 [ ], 5.7.1 [ ], o
en virtud de:
4. Productos abarcados (partida del SA o de la NCCA cuando corresponda; en otro caso
partida del arancel nacional. Podrá indicarse además, cuando proceda, el número de
partida de la ICS): Declaración de conformidad del proveedor (ICS: 03.120.20)
5. Título, número de páginas e idioma(s) del documento notificado: Reglamento técnico
por el que se establecen los criterios generales para el envío, registro, control y evaluación
de la declaración de conformidad del proveed or en el marco de SINMETRO (Resolución
CONMETRO Nº 04, de 16 de abril de 1998).
6. Descripción del contenido: Prescripciones generales aplicables a todos los productos
regulados en el ámbito de SINMETRO objeto de ese mecanismo de evaluación de la
conformidad. Las características propias de cada producto que sea objeto de una
declaración de conformidad del proveedor deben aparecer detalladas en documentos anexos
definidos por los órganos reglamentarios competentes.
7. Objetivo y razón de ser, incluida, cuando pr oceda, la índole de los problemas urgentes:
Protección del consumidor
8. Documentos pertinentes: Resolución CONMETRO Nº 04, de 16 de abril de 1998
9. Fecha propuesta de adopción:
Fecha propuesta de entrada en vigor: } No se indica
10. Fecha límite para la presentación de observaciones: 30 días después de la publicación
en el Diario Oficial
11. Textos disponibles en: Servicio nacional de información [ X ] o dirección, números de
teléfono y de telefax, correo electrónico y dirección del sitio Web, en su caso, de otra
institución:
| 393 | 2,602 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_TMB_R95.pdf
|
S_G_TMB_R95
|
RESTRICTEDORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/TMB/R/95
27 de febrero de 2003
(03-1175)
Órgano de Supervisión de los Textiles
INFORME DE LA NONAGÉSIMA SEXTA REUNIÓN
1. El Órgano de Supervisión de los Textiles celebró su nonagésima sexta reunión el 27 de enero
de 2003.
2. Tras la decisión adoptada por el Consejo General el 20 de diciembre de 20011 sobre la
composición del OST para el período comprendido en tre el 1º de enero de 2002 y el 31 de diciembre
de 2004, y el nombramiento de los nuevos miembros y suplentes, al comenzar 2003 la composición
del OST era la siguiente2:
MIEMBROS SUPLENTES SEGUNDOS SUPLENTES
Sr. Frédéric Seppey (Canadá) Sr. Otto Wentzel (Noruega)
Sra. Liping Zhang (China) Sr. S.I.M Nayyar (Pakistán) Sra. My Yen Lu (Macao, China)Sr. Benny Berg Sorensen (CE) Sra. Liana Simopoulos (CE)
Sr. Ivan Lee (Hong Kong, China) Sr. Gil-Sou Shin (Corea) Sr. Badrul Hassan (Bangladesh)
Sr. Sudhakar Dalela (India) Sr. Elyes Lakhal (Túnez)Sr. Hisashi Yoshikawa (Japón) Sr. Shingo Yamagami (Japón)Sra. Milagros Miranda (Perú) Sr. Evelio Alvarado Romero
(Guatemala)Sr. Philip Fox-Drummond Gough (Brasil)
Sra. Yelda Ünal (Turquía) Sra. Sarah Huber (Suiza) Sra. Tatyana Petrova (Bulgaria)
Sr. William Tagliani (Estados Unidos)
3. Asistieron a la reunión los siguientes miembros y/o suplentes: Sres. Dalela; Lee;
Sra. Miranda/Sr. Gough; Sres. Seppey; Sorensen; Tagliani; Sras. Ünal/Petrova; Sr. Yoshikawa;
Sra. Zhang/Sr. Nayyar/Sra. Lu.
4. El OST adoptó el informe de su nonagésima quinta reunión (G/TMB/R/94).
Notificaciones de conformidad con el párrafo 1 del artículo 2 del Acuerdo sobre los Textiles y el
Vestido (ATV)
5. El OST reanudó el examen de una notificación presentada por Turquía de conformidad con el
párrafo 1 del artículo 2, a raíz de la adhesión de China a la OMC3, basándose en particular en
1 Véase el documento WT/L/443.
2 No se había recibido aún ningún nombramiento de los miembros de la ASEAN.
3 Véanse el párrafo 4 del documento G/TMB/R/86; el párrafo 4 del documento G/TMB/R/88; el
párrafo 49 del documento G/TMB/R/90; los párrafos 15 a 17 del documento G/TMB/R/91; los párrafos 12 a 14
del documento G/TMB/R/93; el párrafo 5 del documento G/TMB/R/94. Véase también el párrafo 8 del
documento G/TMB/R/88.G/TMB/R/95
Página 2
información presentada por Turquía de conformidad con el párrafo 2 del artículo 2 (documentos
G/TMB/N/422/Add.4 y G/TM B/R/422/Add.5), facilitada en respuesta a: i) la solicitud formulada por
el OST con respecto a documentación oficial u observaciones pertinentes que contribuyesen a aclarar
y a comprender mejor los coeficientes de crecimiento que Turquía había aplicado el 10 de diciembre
de 20014 (esto es, el día anterior a la fecha de adhesión de China a la OMC); y ii) la notificación
presentada por China (documento G/TMB/N/447/Add.4), que el OST había señalado a la atención de
Turquía.5 Se observó, entre otras cosas, que la metodología utilizada por Turquía para calcular los
coeficientes de crecimiento se basó en el "coeficiente de crecimiento acordado
(G/TMB/N/422/Add.4)", que se aplicó por primer a vez probablemente en 1996, incrementado en un
16 por ciento y posteriormente en un 25 por ciento en 2001, mientras que la opinión de China era que
el coeficiente de crecimiento aplicado el 10 de diciembre de 2001 debería ser igual al crecimiento
entre los "niveles de los contingentes acordados " en 2000 y 2001 (G/TMB/N/447/Add.4). Se observó
asimismo que los niveles de los contingentes mencionados tanto por China como por Turquía para los
años 2000 y 2001 eran los mismos, y que, según Turquía, las diferencias en los coeficientes de
crecimiento calculados sobre esa base eran resultado del hecho de que Turquía había "redondeado a la
cifra superior los niveles de los contingentes calculados […] a efectos de su aplicación y los cálculos
efectuados por China se habían basado en esos niveles de contingentes redondeados. Así pues, en lamayoría de los casos los niveles de los contingentes aplicados (publicados) son superiores a los
niveles calculados, lo que se traduc[e] en una diferencia entre el método utilizado por Turquía y los
coeficientes de crecimiento calculados con arreglo al nivel de los contingentes publicados". El OST
decidió señalar a la atención de China las notificaciones adicionales presentadas por Turquía.
Además, para poder evaluar plenamente la situación a la luz de las declaraciones formuladas tanto porTurquía como por China en relación con los coeficientes de crecimiento aplicados el 10 de diciembre
de 2001, se acordó solicitar a Turquía que facilitara una copia del (de los) acuerdo(s) celebrado(s)
entre Turquía y China a que se hace referencia en la notificación presentada por Turquía, así como
una copia del (de los) documento(s) pertinente(s) que refleje(n) cualquier posible acuerdo ulterior que
pudiera haberse alcanzado entre ambos Miembros a este respecto. Asimismo, se hizo notar tanto aChina como a Turquía que resultaría particularmente útil si se pudiera suministrar información acerca
de si existía algún documento oficial que contuviera un acuerdo entre China y Turquía respecto de los
coeficientes de crecimiento aplicables por Turquía específicamente para el año 2001.
6. Según lo acordado en la nonagésima quinta reunión
6, el OST reanudó el examen de una
notificación presentada por los Estados Unidos, de conformidad con el párrafo 1 del artículo 2, a raíz
de la adhesión de China a la OMC7, también sobre la base de una comunicación adicional presentada
por los Estados Unidos (documento G/TMB/N/63/Add.12/Suppl.5), en respuesta a la petición delOST a los Estados Unidos de que reconsiderasen su posición respecto de la aplicación del aumento
adecuado a los coeficientes de crecimiento anuales de los contingentes que se siguen manteniendo con
respecto a las importaciones de China y realizaran los necesarios ajustes en la metodología por ellos
aplicada.
8 En esta comunicación adicional, los Estados Unidos declararon que "ha[bía]n examinado
detenidamente el informe del OST en el que se analiza la aplicación de las disposiciones del ATVrelativas al coeficiente de crecimiento aumentado y han llegado a la conclusión de que la metodología
utilizada por los Estados Unidos, notificada en el documento G/TMB/N/63/Add.12/Suppl.1
4 Véase el párrafo 14 del documento G/TMB/R/93.
5 Véase el párrafo 5 del documento G/TMB/R/94.
6 Véase el párrafo 9 del documento G/TMB/R/94.
7 Véanse el párrafo 5 del documento G/TMB/R/86; el párrafo 5 del documento G/TMB/R/88; el
párrafo 50 del documento G/TMB/R/90; los párrafos 7 a 14 del documento G/TMB/R/91; los párrafos 15 y 16
del documento G/TMB/R/93; y los párrafos 6 a 9 del documento G/TMB/R/94.
8 Véase el párrafo 33 del documento G/TMB/R/90.G/TMB/R/95
Página 3
[concordaba] con las obligaciones de los Estados Unidos previstas en el informe del Grupo de Trabajo
sobre la Adhesión de China a la OMC. El razonamiento de los Estados Unidos sobre esta cuestión,
expuesto en los documentos G/TM B/N/63/Add.12/Suppl. 1 y 3, [seguí a] siendo el mismo. Partiendo
de esta conclusión, los Estados Unidos considera[ban] que no sería apropiado hacer ningún ajuste en
la metodología aplicada".
7. El OST observó que los Estados Unidos no habían presentado argumentos concretos para
justificar las razones por las que se había llegado a la conclusión de que la metodología utilizada por
los Estados Unidos se ajustaba a sus obligaciones, previstas en el informe del Grupo de Trabajo sobre
la Adhesión de China a la OMC. En cambio, los Estados Unidos se habían limitado a manifestar que
su razonamiento sobre esta cuestión seguía siendo el mismo y que consideraban, en consecuencia, que
no sería apropiado hacer ningún ajuste en la metodología aplicada.
8. En su reunión anterior9, el OST había recordado que, en el examen minucioso que había
llevado a cabo con respecto a la aplicación de las disposiciones relativas al coeficiente de crecimiento
aumentado por los Miembros interesados, había considerado las notificaciones pertinentes presentadas
de conformidad con el párrafo 1 del artículo 2 por los Miembros interesados (el Canadá, las
Comunidades Europeas, los Estados Unidos y Turquía), así como las observaciones correspondientes
hechas por China con referencia al párrafo 2 del artículo 2. Con el fin de desempeñar sus funciones aeste respecto, el OST también había tenido que examinar, además de las disposiciones del ATV, las
disposiciones de los respectivos instrumentos jurídicos de la adhesión de China. Pese a haber
determinado que las disposiciones pertinentes de los instrumentos jurídicos de la adhesión de China,
en particular los términos "según procediera" en la tercera frase del párrafo 241 del informe del Grupo
de Trabajo sobre la Adhesión de China, no proporcionaban orientaciones inequívocas sobre algunosde los aspectos de que se trataba, el OST había podido llegar a una conclusión sobre los requisitos
mínimos que, a su juicio, tenían que ser aplicados por los Miembros interesados. Como los Estados
Unidos habían dado cuenta de una aplicación que no cumplía dichos requisitos mínimos el OST había
"decid[ido] invitarles a reconsiderar su posición a la luz de sus comentarios, observaciones y
conclusiones y a realizar los necesarios ajustes en la metodología por ellos aplicada".
9. Se observó que, a pesar de la petición hecha a los Estados Unidos de que reconsiderasen su
posición a la luz de los comentarios, las observaciones y la conclusión del OST e hiciese los
necesarios ajustes en la metodología por ellos aplicada, la aplicación por parte de los Estados Unidos
no había variado y, en consecuencia, seguían sin cumplir con lo que el OST había determinado eran
los requisitos mínimos que se debían aplicar. Tras observar, una vez más, la falta de argumentos
nuevos o adicionales de los Estados Unidos, el OST reiteró su conclusión de que las disposiciones
pertinentes de los instrumentos de adhesión y del ATV no justificaban el prorrateo del aumento del25 por ciento aplicable a la etapa 2 con respecto al breve período de dicha etapa en el que China era
realmente Miembro de la OMC.
10 Se recordó a este respecto que el OST había llegado a esta
conclusión después de un examen detallado de las disposiciones pertinentes del informe del Grupo de
Trabajo sobre la Adhesión de China y del texto del apartado a) del párrafo 14 del artículo 2 del ATV,
apoyándose además en el hecho de que ningún Miembr o de la OMC, ni siquiera los Estados Unidos,
había utilizado nunca antes el aumento prorrateado de los respectivos coeficientes de crecimiento con
respecto a ningún otro Miembro de la OMC.11 Por consiguiente, el OST sigue considerando que, en
lo que respecta a la aplicación de las disposiciones relativas al coeficiente de crecimiento aumentado
previstas en los párrafos 12 y 13 del artículo 2 con respecto a China, los requisitos mínimos que tenían
que ser aplicados, entre otros, por los Estados Unidos, eran que, a partir del 1° de enero de 2002, los
9 Véase el párrafo 7 del documento G/TMB/R/94.
10 Véase el párrafo 28 del documento G/TMB/R/90.
11 Véase el párrafo 27 del documento G/TMB/R/90.G/TMB/R/95
Página 4
niveles de base vigentes el 10 de diciembre de 2001 tenían que aumentarse en los coeficientes de
crecimiento respectivos aplicados para el año 2001 (con anterioridad a la adhesión de China),
aumentados en el 25 por ciento total aplicable a la etapa 2 y el 27 por ciento aplicable a la etapa 3.
10. El OST recordó que en dos de las notificaciones presentadas de conformidad con el párrafo 2
del artículo 2, China había formulado observaciones con respecto a la aplicación de las disposicionesrelativas al coeficiente de crecimiento aumentado por parte de los Estados Unidos.
12 El OST se había
ocupado de esas observaciones en el curso del debate acerca de la aplicación de las disposiciones
relativas al coeficiente de crecimiento aumentado, tal como se refleja en el documento G/TMB/R/90.
El OST señaló que, con arreglo a lo dispuesto en el párrafo 2 del artículo 2, el Órgano, entre otras
cosas, "podrá hacer recomendaciones, según proceda, a los Miembros interesados". Teniendo
presente que tanto China como los Estados Unidos habían tenido abundantes oportunidades de dar a
conocer sus observaciones y sus respectivos argumentos y también que el OST había llegado a suconclusión con pleno conocimiento de las observaciones y de los argumentos presentados en las
respectivas notificaciones de los dos Miembros interesados, el OST decidió recomendar a los Estados
Unidos que hiciera los ajustes necesarios en la metodología aplicada a fin de ponerla en conformidad
con la conclusión del OST respecto de los requisitos mínimos que debían cumplirse.
11. El OST recordó además que en su octogésima séptima reunión, al comenzar el examen de la
notificación presentada por los Estados Unidos de c onformidad con el párrafo 1 del artículo 2, a raíz
de la adhesión de China a la OMC, el Órgano había decidido pedir a los Estados Unidos aclaraciones
e información adicional con respecto a otros aspectos concretos de su notificación, entre otras cosas,
también a la luz de las observaciones conexas formuladas por China con referencia al párrafo 2 del
artículo 2. En particular, en su nonagésima segunda reunión
13, el OST había examinado en detalle
una serie de cuestiones pertinentes, basándose además en información adicional facilitada por los
Estados Unidos (documento G/TMB/N/63/Add.12/Suppl.3) en respuesta a las observaciones
contenidas en una notificación presentada por China de conformidad con el párrafo 2 del artículo 2
(documento G/TMB/N/445/Add.2). El OST había examinado los siguientes elementos: la
interacción entre los límites específicos y los límites de grupo, el ajuste a la baja de los niveles de loscontingentes debido a una integración parcial de productos y el límite mantenido por los Estados
Unidos sobre el uso combinado de la transferencia del remanente y de la utilización anticipada. En la
misma ocasión, el OST también había examinado y abordado las observaciones pertinentes
formuladas por China de conformidad con el párrafo 2 del artículo 2. Además, en el curso de su
nonagésima tercera reunión, el OST había señalado que los Estados Unidos habían introducido una
corrección administrativa en algunos de los límites de los grupos notificados, a fin de corregir un
error producido por inadvertencia.
14 En vista de lo anterior y observando que había abordado todas
las cuestiones pertinentes, el OST consideró que, teniendo en cuenta la recomendación que había
hecho a los Estados Unidos con respecto a la aplicación de las disposiciones relativas al coeficiente de
crecimiento aumentado, tal como se refleja en el párrafo 10 supra , estaba en condiciones de tomar
nota de la notificación presentada por los Estados Unidos de conformidad con el párrafo 1 del
artículo 2.
__________
12 Véase el párrafo 13 del documento G/TMB/R/90.
13 Véanse los párrafos 7 a 14 del documento G/TMB/R/91.
14 Véase el párrafo 5 del documento G/TMB/R/92.
| 2,388 | 15,241 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_SPS_NNZL161A1.pdf
|
S_G_SPS_NNZL161A1
|
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/SPS/N/NZL/161/Add.1
2 de agosto de 2002
(02-4289)
Comité de Medidas Sanitarias y Fitosanitarias Original: inglés
NOTIFICACIÓN
Addendum
Se ha recibido de Nueva Zelandia la siguient e comunicación, de fecha 1º de agosto de 2002.
_______________
Modificación de la Ley de Sustancias Peligrosa s y Nuevos Organismos (organismos modificados
genéticamente), de 2002
En diciembre de 2001 Nueva Zelandia notificó la propuesta de ley destinada a restringir hasta el
29 de octubre de 2003 el examen y la aprobación por parte de la Oficina de Gestión de los Riesgos
Ambientales de las solicitudes de introducción en el medio ambiente de los organismos modificados
genéticamente (con algunas excepciones) (G/ SPS/N/NZL/161 de fecha 11 de diciembre y
G/TBT/N/NZL/3 de f echa 12 de diciembre). Ya se ha aprobado y ha entrado en vigor la Ley de
Sustancias Peligrosas y Nuevos Organismos (organismos modificados genéticamente), de 2002.
El período de restricción sólo afecta a las solicitudes de liberar en el medio ambiente
organismos modificados genéticamente. Se conceden tres tipos de exenciones respecto al período de
restricción: 1) los medicamentos que constan de organismos modificados genéticamente o los
contienen, que estén aprobados para uso humano en la Ley de Medicamentos de 1981; 2) los
medicamentos para uso veterinario que constan de organismos modificados genéticamente o loscontienen, que estén aprobados en la Ley de Compuestos Agrícolas y Medicamentos Veterinarios de
1997; y 3) organismos modificados genéticamente aprobados con arreglo a las disposiciones relativas a
casos de emergencia establecidas en la Ley de Sustancias Peligrosas y Nuevos Organismos de 1996. El
período de restricción no afecta a los alimentos modificados genéticamente elaborados ni a sus
ingredientes, cuya utilización se permite después de una evaluación de la seguridad y su aprobación porel Consejo Ministerial de Reglamentación Alimentaria de Australia y Nueva Zelandia. Asimismo, los
organismos modificados genéticamente se pueden importar o desarrollar en Nueva Zelandia para su
aplicación en trabajos de laboratorio, y también para pruebas de campo acotadas.
El documento objeto de notificación está disponible en la dirección siguiente:
http://rangi.knowledge-basket.co.nz/gpacts/public/text/2002/an/013.html
__________
| 336 | 2,353 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_SPS_W145.pdf
|
R_G_SPS_W145
|
. /. ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCE G/SPS/W/145
16 mars 2004
(04-1162)
Original: anglais
DÉCISION SUR LA MISE EN ŒUVRE DE L'ARTICLE 6 DE L'ACCORD
SUR L'APPLICATION DES MESURES SANITAIRES
ET PHYTOSANITAIRES
Proposition du Canada
La communication ci-après, datée du 16 mars 2004, est distribuée à la demande de la
délégation du Canada.
_______________
Le Comité des mesures sanitaires et phytosanitaires, Réaffirmant le droit et l'obligation des Membres de mettre en place les mesures sanitaires et
phytosanitaires nécessaires pour assurer la protection de la santé et de la vie des personnes et des
animaux et la préservation des végétaux, ainsi que la protection de leur territoire contre d'autres
dommages découlant de l'entrée, de l'établissement ou de la dissémination de parasites, conformément
à l'Accord sur l'application des mesu res sanitaires et phytosanitaires (l'Accord SPS);
Rappelant que l'article 6 de l'Accord SPS (Adaptat ion aux conditions régionales) encourage
les Membres à faire en sorte que les mesures sanitaires ou phytosanitaires soient adaptées aux
conditions sanitaires ou phytosanitaires de la régi on d'origine et de destination du produit;
Tenant compte du fait que les mesures sanitaires et phytosanitaires ne devraient être
appliquées que dans la mesure nécessaire pour protéger la santé et la vie des personnes et des animaux
ou préserver les végétaux;
Rappelant que l'harmonisation avec les normes inte rnationales est une disposition essentielle
de l'Accord SPS;
Rappelant que l'article 12 de l'Accord SPS encourag e le Comité à entretenir des relations
étroites avec les organisations internationales comp étentes afin d'éviter toute duplication inutile des
efforts; Notant que la Commission du Codex Alimentarius , l'Organisation mondiale de la santé
animale (OIE) et la Convention internationale pour la protection des végétaux sont reconnues comme
étant les organismes internationaux de normalisa tion pour les mesures sanitaires et phytosanitaires
dans l'Accord SPS; Reconnaissant que la régionalisation est une question de plus en plus importante pour le
commerce entre tous les pays, quels que soient leur taille ou leur niv eau de développement;
G/SPS/W/145
Page 2
Reconnaissant que la régionalisation peut être appli quée entre tous les Membres, quels que
soient leur taille ou leur niveau de développement;
Rappelle aux Membres ce qui suit:
1. Les mesures sanitaires ou phytosanitaires doivent tenir compte des différences régionales
concernant la situation zoosanitair e ou la prévalence de parasites.
2. L'adaptation des mesures aux conditions régiona les peut être appliquée à des écosystèmes
mineurs, à une partie d'un pays, à la totalité d'un pays ou à la totalité ou à des parties de plusieurs
pays.
3. S'agissant de faciliter la mise en œuvre de l'arti cle 6, dans les cas où le Membre exportateur
allègue qu'il existe des conditions régionales à l'inté rieur de son territoire, le Membre importateur
envisagera d'appliquer le con cept de la régionalisation.
4. Afin de faciliter la décision du Membre impor tateur, un Membre e xportateur alléguant
l'existence de conditions régionales à l'intérieu r de son territoire fournira la documentation
scientifique et technique appropriée au Membre importateur.
5. Conformément aux recommandations, directives et normes élaborées par les autorités
internationales compétentes, en particulier l'Orga nisation mondiale de la santé animale (OIE) et la
Convention internationale pour la protection des vé gétaux (CIPV), le Membre importateur prendra en
considération, entre autres choses, les analyses de risques, les processus de gestion des risques, les
systèmes existants visant à mettre en place et à main tenir des mesures sanitaires et phytosanitaires et
les programmes de surveillance et de suivi pertinents.
6. Un Membre prendra pleinement en consid ération une demande d'assistance technique
appropriée émanant d'un autre Membre, en par ticulier d'un pays en développement Membre,
conformément à l'article 9 de l'Accord SPS (Assistance technique), afin de faciliter la mise en œuvre de l'article 6.
7. Conformément à leurs obligations générales en matière de transparence, les Membres
devraient informer les autres Membres de toutes mesures nouvelles ou modifiées relatives aux conditions régionales.
Décide ce qui suit:
8. Le Comité des mesures sanitaires et phytosan itaires (Comité SPS) reconnaît la nécessité de
directives sur la détermination des zones exemptes de parasites ou de maladies et des zones à faible prévalence de parasites ou de maladies et il demandera instamment à l'OIE et à la Commission intérimaire des mesures phytosanitaires de continuer à élaborer des directives, selon les besoins, dans
les domaines de la santé animale et de la préservation des végétaux, respectivement. Les organisations susmentionnées et, selon les besoins, la Commission du Codex Alimentarius, seront
invitées à tenir le Comité SPS régulièrement in formé de leurs activités relatives au concept
d'adaptation aux conditions régionales ou de zonage.
9. Les Membres communiqueront régulièrement au Comité SPS des renseignements sur leur
expérience concernant la mise en œuvre de l'artic le 6 de l'Accord SPS, afin d'élaborer de bonnes
pratiques. En particulier, les Membres sont encouragés à notifier au Comité SPS toutes mesures
appliquées sur une base régionale et devraien t communiquer périodiquement au Comité SPS des
renseignements sur leur expérience en matière d'éla boration, d'application et de mise en œuvre de
mesures qui sont adaptées aux conditions régionales.
__________
| 836 | 5,730 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/FE_Search_MultiDDFDocuments_4833_Q:_WT_TPR_S40-01.pdf;Q:_WT_TPR_S40-02.pdf;Q:_WT_TPR_S40-03.pdf;Q:_WT_TPR_S40-04.pdf;Q:_WT_TPR_S40-05.pdf;Q:_WT_TPR_S40-06..pdf
|
FE_Search_MultiDDFDocuments_4833_Q:_WT_TPR_S40-01.pdf;Q:_WT_TPR_S40-02.pdf;Q:_WT_TPR_S40-03.pdf;Q:_WT_TPR_S40-04.pdf;Q:_WT_TPR_S40-05.pdf;Q:_WT_TPR_S40-06.
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/S_G_SPS_NAUS144.pdf
|
S_G_SPS_NAUS144
|
. /.ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/SPS/N/AUS/144
17 de diciembre de 2002
(02-6950)
Comité de Medidas Sanitarias y Fitosanitarias Original: inglés
NOTIFICACIÓN
1. Miembro del Acuerdo que notifica: AUSTRALIA
Si procede, nombre del gobierno local de que se trate:
2. Organismo responsable: Organismo de Normas Alimentarias de Australia y Nueva
Zelandia (FSANZ)
3. Productos abarcados (número de la(s) partida(s) arancelaria(s) según se especifica en
las listas nacionales depositadas en la OMC; deberá indicarse además, cuando
proceda, el número de partida de la ICS): Alimentos elaborados – Quesos de requesón
cocido muy duros fabricados con leche cruda
4. Regiones o países que podrían verse afectados, en la medida en que sea pertinente o
factible:
Todos los países. Alimentos importados (o de producción nacional) vendidos en Australia y
Nueva Zelandia
5. Título, idioma y número de páginas del documento notificado: Informe de evaluación
final para la propuesta P263 – Evaluación de la inocuidad de quesos de requesón cocido
muy duros fabricados con leche cruda (disponible en inglés, 64 páginas)
6. Descripción del contenido: La propuesta P263 se elaboró con el fin de evaluar la
inocuidad de los quesos muy duros (menos del 36% de humedad) fabricados a partir de
leche cruda, tales como: Parmigiano, Reggiano y Grana Padano, y para determinar si
debería introducirse una enmienda en el Código de Normas Alimentarias de Australia yNueva Zelandia (Vol. II) para permitir que continúe la venta de estos quesos.
7. Objetivo y razón de ser: [ X ] inocuidad de los alimentos, [ ] sanidad animal,
[ ] preservación de los vegetales,
[ ] protección de la salud humana cont ra las enfermedades o plagas animales o
vegetales, [ ] protección del territor io contra otros daños causados por plagas
8. Norma, directriz o recomendación internacional:
[ ] de la Comisión del Codex Alimentarius, [ ] de la Oficina Internacional de
Epizootias,
[ ] de la Convención Internacional de Protección Fitosanitaria, [ X ] Ninguna
Si existe una norma, directriz o recomendación internacional, facilítese la referencia
adecuada de la misma y señálense b revemente las diferencias con ella:
9. Documentos pertinentes e idioma(s) en que están disponibles: Código de Normas
Alimentarias de Australia y Nueva Zelandia , Norma 1.5.2, y Reglamento Alimentario de
Nueva Zelandia de 1984 (ambos en inglés).
10. Fecha propuesta de adopción: Se procederá a la adopción previa aprobación por el
Gobierno.G/SPS/N/AUS/144
Página 2
11. Fecha propuesta de entrada en vigor: Posterior a la aprobación del Gobierno.
12. Fecha límite para la presentación de observaciones: 19 de diciembre de 2002
Organismo o autoridad encargado de tramit ar las observaciones: [ ] Organismo
nacional encargado de la notificación, [ ] Servicio nacional de información, o dirección,
número de telefax y dirección de correo electr ónico (si la hay) de otra institución:
Food Standards Australia New Zealand
PO Box 7186
Canberra BC ACT 2610
Australia
Fax: +61 2 6271 2278
Correo electrónico: [email protected]
13. Textos disponibles en: [ X ] Organismo nacional encargado de la notificación,
[ ] Servicio nacional de información, o dirección, número de telefax y dirección de
correo electrónico (si la hay) de otra institución:
También pueden consultarse los documentos en el sitio Web del Organismo de Normas
Alimentarias de Australia y Nueva Zelandia ( www.foodstandards.gov.au ).
Pueden pedirse ejemplares a:
The Australian SPS Notification Point
PO Box 858
Canberra City
ACT 2601Australia
Telefax: (+61) 2 6272 3678
Correo electrónico: [email protected]
| 559 | 3,664 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_REG_118-2.pdf
|
Q_WT_REG_118-2
|
WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONWT/REG118/2
30 April 2001
(01-2164)
Committee on Regional Trade Agreements
FREE TRADE AGREEMENT BETWEEN GEORGIA
AND THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Terms of Reference of the Examination
Terms of Reference adopted on 14 March 2001
"to examine, in light of the relevant provisions of the GATT 1994, the Free Trade Agreement
between Georgia and the Russian Federation and to submit a report to the Council for Trade
in Goods".
Understanding read out by the Chairm an of the Council for Trade in Goods
at its meeting of 14 March 2001
It was understood that the understanding read out by the Chairman of the Council for Trade in
Goods under item 7 of the Agenda of the meeting of Council for Trade in Goods on20 February 1995, as contained in document WT/REG31/1, will apply mutatis mutandis to the
examination of the agreements. It was also understood that, during the examination, due account
would be taken of the intrinsic differences between customs unions and free-trade areas.
__________
| 165 | 1,007 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_Tbtnot00_00-574.pdf
|
S_G_Tbtnot00_00-574
|
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/TBT/Notif.00/574
6 de diciembre de 2000
(00-5283)
Comité de Obstáculos Técnicos al Comercio
NOTIFICACIÓN
Se da traslado de la notificación siguiente de conformidad con el artículo 10.6.
1. Miembro del Acuerdo que notifica: ESTADOS UNIDOS
Si procede, nombre del gobierno local de que se trate (artículos 3.2 y 7.2):
2. Organismo responsable: Agencia de Protección del Medio Ambiente (27)
Se indicará el organismo o autoridad responsable de la tramitación de observaciones
sobre la notificación, en caso de que se trate de un organismo o autoridad diferente:
3. Notificación hecha en virtud del artículo 2.9.2 [ X], 2.10.1 [ ], 5.6.2 [ ], 5.7.1 [ ], o
en virtud de:
4. Productos abarcados (partida del SA o de la NCCA cuando corresponda; en otro caso
partida del arancel nacional. Podrá indicarse además, cuando proceda, el número de
partida de la ICS): Abonos con cinc
5. Título, número de páginas e idioma(s) del documento notificado: Prescripciones para
los abonos con cinc fabricados de materiales de recuperación peligrosos reciclados
(28 páginas, en inglés).
6. Descripción del contenido: La Agencia propone que se revise la reglamentación actual
aplicable al reciclado de desechos peligrosos para fabricar productos de abonos con cinc.
Se trata de elaborar un marco reglamentario más coherente para esta actividad y establecercondiciones para excluir de la definición de desechos sólidos en virtud de la Ley de
Conservación y Recuperación de Recursos los materiales de recuperación peligrosos que se
utilizan para fabricar abonos con cinc. Asimismo, en la propuesta se solicitan
observaciones sobre la reglamentación de los desechos de minas utilizados para fabricar
abonos.
7. Objetivo y razón de ser, incluida, cuando pr oceda, la índole de los problemas urgentes:
Inocuidad de los abonos fabricados con desechos peligrosos.
8. Documentos pertinentes: 65 FR 70954, de 28 de noviembre de 2000; 40 CFR Partes 261,
266 y 268. Una vez adoptado, el texto se publicará en el Federal Register .
9. Fecha propuesta de adopción:
Fecha propuesta de entrada en vigor: } Por determinar
10. Fecha límite para la presentación de observaciones: 26 de febrero de 2001
11. Textos disponibles en: Servicio nacional de información [ X] o dirección, correo
electrónico y número de telefax de otra institución:
| 367 | 2,395 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_SGQ2_CHL8.pdf
|
S_G_SGQ2_CHL8
|
RESTRICTEDORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/SG/Q2/CHL/8
2 de mayo de 2001
(01-2228)
Comité des salvaguardias Original: español
NOTIFICACIÓN EN VIRTUD DEL APARTADO A) DEL PÁRRAFO 1
DEL ARTÍCULO 12 DEL ACUERDO SOBRE SALVAGUARDIAS
RELATIVA A LA INICIACIÓN DE UN PROCESO DE
INVESTIGACIÓN Y A LOS MOTIVOS DEL MISMO
Y
NOTIFICACIÓN EN VIRTUD DEL PÁRRAFO 4 DEL ARTÍCULO 12
DEL ACUERDO SOBRE SALVAGUARDIAS ANTES DE LA
ADOPCIÓN DE UN MEDIDA DE SALVAGUARDIA
PROVISIONAL PREVISTA EN EL ARTÍCULO 6
Respuestas de CHILE a las preguntas formuladas por los ESTADOS UNIDOS1
en relación con las notificaciones de CHILE2
Se ha recibido de la Misión Permanente de Chile la siguiente comunicación, de fecha 30 de
abril de 2001.
_______________
Pregunta 1
¿Cuál es la situación actual de la investigac ión de salvaguardias sobre la leche en polvo y
fluida notificada en G/SG/N/6/CHL/4?
Respuesta
Mediante documento G/SG/N/8/CHL/2 - G/SG/N/10/CHL/3 Chile notificó al Comité de
Salvaguardia, la resolución de la autoridad investigadora chilena que recomienda la aplicación de una
medida de salvaguardia definitiva a la leche en polvo y la UHT. El día 10 de enero de 2001 se publicó
en el Diario Oficial de Chile el establecimiento de una sobretasa arancelaria de 12% ad valorem como
medida de salvaguardia definitiva para esos productos. Es importante tener presente que la medida
provisional era de 16% ad valorem .
Pregunta 2
¿Se ha sostenido una Audiencia Pública sobre la investigación?
1 G/SG/Q2/CHL/7.
2 G/SG/N/8/CHL/1-G/SG/N/10/CHL/1 y Suppl.1.G/SG/Q2/CHL/8
Página 2
Respuesta
El viernes18 de agosto de 2000 se realizó la Audiencia Pública ante la autoridad investigadora
y de conformidad con el procedimiento previsto en la Ley Nº 18.525, en el marco de la investigación
por salvaguardias a la leche.
Realizaron presentaciones escritas ante la autoridad investigadora y participaron en dicha
audiencia: Acoleche A.G; Asociación de Productores de Leche de Ñuble A.G; Asociación de
Productores de Leche de Valdivia A.G; Asociación de Productores de Leche Zona Central; Centro de
Industria Lechera de la República de Argentina; Colun; Conaprole y CILU; Embajada de Argentina;
Embajada de Australia; Embajada de Canadá; Em bajada de Uruguay; Fedeleche; New Zeland Dairy
Board; Sociedad Nacional de Agricultura;y la Delegación de la Comisión Europea.
Pregunta 3
¿Cuando espera el Gobierno de Chile anunciar los resultados de la determinación de la
investigación? Notamos en G/SG/N/6/CHL/3 Suppl.1 que la medida provisional fue anunciadael 13 de julio de 2000?
Respuesta
La notificación contenida en el documento G/ SG/N/7/CHL/3 Suppl.1, corresponde al Decreto
del Ministerio de Hacienda Nº211 del 12 de julio en que se estableció como medida provisional una
sobre tasa arancelaria de 16% ad valorem para las importaciones de determinados productos lácteos.
En el documento G/SG/N/8/CHL/2 - G/SG/N /10/CHL/3 del 12 de enero de 2001, Chile
notificó el establecimiento de una medida de salvaguardia definitiva de 12% ad valorem para las
importaciones de productos lácteos.
Pregunta 4
¿Cuál fue la fecha efectiva de aplicación de la medida de salvaguardia provisional?.
Respuesta
La fecha efectiva de la aplicación de la medida provisional fue el 13 de julio de 2000 (fecha
de publicación del decreto 211) y de la me dida definitiva el 10 de enero de 2001.
Pregunta 5
El artículo 12.6 del Acuerdo de Salvaguardi as de la OMC establece que la medida de
salvaguardia provisional puede ser aplicada “e n circunstancias críticas, en las que cualquier
demora entrañaría un perjuicio difícilmente reparable”
¿Consideró la Autoridad competente que el daño era probable que ocurriera en 200
días, comenzando en julio de 2000, que no podía decidir el no imponer una medida de
salvaguardia provisional? Si es así, que consecuencias inmediatas determinó preliminarmente
la autoridad que era probable que ocurriera?G/SG/Q2/CHL/8
Página 3
Pregunta 6
¿Publicó la Autoridad competente un informe sobre las medidas provisionales de salvaguardias,
incluyendo sus hallazgos preliminares sobre la existencia de circunstancias críticas?. Si es asi,
¿cuál es la cita legal sobre tal informe?
Respuesta
De las notificaciones realizadas en los documentos G/SG/N/6/CHL/4 (inicio de la
investigación)y G/SG/N/6/CHL/3 (recom endación de la medida provisional)
se obtiene la siguiente información al respecto:
“Para el caso de la leche en polvo entre el período enero-abril de 1997 y enero-abril de 2000,
se incrementó de 1.791 a 5.297 toneladas, representando un aumento sobre el 190 por ciento;
asimismo, en enero-abril de 2000 se registró un aumento del 38 por ciento respecto de igual período
del año anterior.
Para el caso de la leche fluida UHT en el período enero-abril de 2000 se importaron 177.000
litros, cifra superior en más de cuatro veces al total importado en el año 1999.
Este aumento ha causado daño a la producción naci onal de leche predio, lo que se constata a
través de una disminución de la producción, de los precios domésticos, de la inversión y del empleo y,
de una amenaza de daño para la producción nacional de leche fluida UHT.
La información disponible muestra una asociación estrecha entre los precios internos y
externos de las leches en polvo. Debido a ello, la reducción del precio internacional de este producto
en los últimos años se ha reflejado en una reducción de la misma magnitud de los precios internos.En el caso de las leches líquidas UHT, se ha producido un aumento de las importaciones a precios
tales que, para competir, obligaría a la industria nacional a una reducción de sus ingresos.
La situación del sector lácteo se ha deteriorado hasta causar una disminución e la inversión, la
producción, con el consiguiente cierre de lech erías, disminución del empleo y otros efectos.
Adicionalmente, los aumentos últimos de las importaciones de leche líquida a bajos precios han
constituido un factor de amenaza y una señal que refuerza la necesidad de aplicar medidas urgentes”.
El Informe está constituido en el Acta de la sesión 213 de la Comisión (autoridad
investigadora), celebrada el 9 de junio de 2000.
Pregunta 7
¿Inició el Gobierno de Chile consultas bajo el artículo 12.4 inmediatamente después que
la medida fue tomada? ¿Con que países sostuvo consultas? ¿Qué países tienen interes
substancial en éstos productos?
Respuesta
Como cuestión preliminar, Chile desea destacar que el artículo 12.4 del Acuerdo de
Salvaguardia establece que “se iniciarán consultas inmediatamente después de adoptada la medida”.
La pregunta de Estados Unidos parece sugerir que la iniciativa para celebrar consultas sólo
correspondería al miembro que adopta la medida provisional.G/SG/Q2/CHL/8
Página 4
Chile entiende que la sola notificación de la medida es base suficiente para que el Miembro
que ha notificado esté dispuesto a celebrar las consultas que todo otro Miembro interesado así lo
solicite, puesto que el artículo 12.4 es imperativo en la materia.
De todos modos el artículo 12.4 no establece que el Miembro que impone la medida deba
ofrecer consultas, ya que ello está implícito en la propia notificación.
Se realizaron consultas bajo el artículo 12.4 el día 21 de noviembre de 2000. Participaron en
las consultas: Argentina, Canadá, Australia, Nueva Zelandia, Uruguay, Estados Unidos, las
Comunidades Europeas y Polonia. La notificación de Chile sobre los resultados de dichas consultas se
encuentran en el documento G/SG/24/Suppl.8 del 11 de diciembre de 2000.
__________
| 1,165 | 7,523 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_Tbtnot00_00-274.pdf
|
R_G_Tbtnot00_00-274
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEG/TBT/Notif.00/274
7 juillet 2000
(00-2798)
Comité des obstacles techniques au commerce
NOTIFICATION
La notification suivante est communiquée conformément à l’article 10.6.
1. Membre de l’Accord adressant la notification: EL SALVADOR
Le cas échéant, pouvoirs publics locaux concernés (articles 3.2 et 7.2):
2. Organisme responsable: Conseil national des sciences et techniques
L'organisme ou l'autorité désigné pour s'occuper des observations concernant la
notification doit être indiqué s'il est différent de l'organisme susmentionné:
3. Notification au titre de l’article 2.9.2 [ X], 2.10.1 [ ], 5.6.2 [ ], 5.7.1 [ ], autres:
4. Produits visés (le cas échéant, position du SH ou de la NCCD, sinon position du tarif
douanier national. Les numéros de l’ICS peuvent aussi être indiqués, le cas échéant):
Sans objet (étiquetage)
5. Intitulé, nombre de pages et langue(s) du texte notifié: Étiquetage des chaussures
(14 pages, en espagnol) – Norme obligat oire NSO 59.21.01:00 – Établissement des
informations commerciales devant figurer sur les étiquettes des chaussures et des parties de
chaussures produites dans le pays ou d'origine étrangère et établissement des notions et
critères nécessaires pour que l'étiquetage soit clair aux yeux du consommateur.
6. Teneur: Objet, champ d'application, définitions et terminologie, matériaux pouvant être
employés dans la fabrication des parties principales de la chaussure, caractéristiques
fondamentales en rapport avec l'établissement de la pointure de la chaussure, étiquetage,
normes salvadoriennes de référence, correspondance, annexe
7. Objectif et justification, y compris la nature des problèmes urgents, le cas échéant:
Empêcher les tromperies à l'égard des consommateurs
8. Documents pertinents: Règlement technique NSO 59.21.01:00
9. Date projetée pour l'adoption:
Date projetée pour l'entrée en vigueur: }26 septembre 2000
10. Date limite pour la présentation des observations: 26 août 2000
11. Entité auprès de laquelle le texte peut être obtenu: point national d'information [ ]
ou adresse, courrier électronique et numéro de téléfax d'un autre organisme: :
Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Technología, Departamento de Normalización, Metrología y
Certificación de Calidad, Colonia Médica, pasaje Doctor Guillermo R. Pacas, # 51,
San Salvador. Téléphone: (503) 226-2800 et (503) 226-2999; téléfax: (503) 225-6255;courrier électronique: [email protected], et: Ministerio de Economía, Dirección de
Política Comercial, Alameda Juan Pablo II y calle Guadalupe, Plan Maestro, San Salvador.Téléphone: (503) 221-3578; téléfax: (503) 221-4771
| 368 | 2,673 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_IP_N_1HKGU1.PDF&Open=True.pdf
|
R_IP_N_1HKGU1.PDF&Open=True
|
WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION
ORGANISATION MONDIALE DU COMMERCE
ORGANIZACION MUNDIAL DEL COMERCIO
Council for Trade-Related Aspects of
Intellectual Property Rights IPINIl/HKG/u1l
20 March 2000
(00-1141)
Original: English!
anglaisl
ingles
MAIN DEDICATED INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
LAWS AND REGULATIONS NOTIFIED UNDER
ARTICLE 63.2 OF THE AGREEMENT
HONG KONG, CHINA
The present document reproduces the textl of the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance, as
notified by Hong Kong, China under Article 63.2 ofthe Agreement (see document IPINIIIHKG/2).
Conseil des aspects des droits de propriete
intellectuelle qui touchent au commerce
PRlNCIPALES LOIS ET REGLEMENTATIONS CONSACREES A LA
PROPRIErE INTELLECTUELLE NOTIFIEES AU TITRE
DE L'ARTICLE 63:2 DE L'ACCORD
HONG KONG, CHINE
Le present document contient le textel de l'Ordonnance sur les donnees a caracU:re personnel
(protection de la vie privee), notifiee par Hong Kong, Chine au titre de l'article 63:2 de l'Accord (voir
le document IPINIlIHKG/2).
Consejo de los Aspectos de los Derechos de Propiedad
Intelectual relacionados con el Comercio
PRlNCIPALES LEYES Y REGLAMENTOS DEDICADOS A LA PROPIEDAD
INTELECTUAL NOTIFICADOS EN VIRTUD DEL P ARRAFO 2
DEL ARTicULO 63 DEL ACUERDO
HONG KONG, CHINA
En el presente documento se reproduce el textol de la Orden sobre los Datos de Canicter
Personal (intimidad de los particulares) notificado por Hong Kong, China en virtud del parrafo 2 del
articulo 63 del Acuerdo (vease el documento IPINIIIHKG/2).
I In English only.lEn anglais seulement.lEn ingles solamente. IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 2
486 Title:
Heading: PBRSONALDATA
(PRIVACY)0RDlN,,\NCB
Long title Gazette: Number:
Version Date: 30/0611997
An Ordinance to protect the privacy of individuals in relation to personal data, and to provide for matters
incidental thereto or connected therewith.
[Part II, section 71 (as affects
Schedule 2) and Schedule 2
The other provisions,
excluding sections 30 and 33
Section 30
(Originally 81 of 1995) (Enacted 1995)
} 1 August 1996 L.N. 343 of 1996
}
} 20 December 1996 L.N. 514 of 1996
1 August 1997 L.N. 409 of 1997] Chapter: 486 ThIe:
I Heading: PBRSONAL DATA
(f'RJVACY)OROlNANCE
.. Short title.alJo
commencement
PART I
PRELIMINARY IP /NI IIHKG/U /1
Page 3
Gazette Numbet:
Version Date: 30106!1997
(1) This Ordinance may be cited as the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance.
(2) This Ordinance shall come into operation on a day to be appointed by the Secretary for Home
Affairs by notice in the Gazette.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKG/u/1
Page 4
Chapter: 4&6
Section: 2 Title: PERSONAtDATA
(PRJVA('Y)ORDlNANCE
Heading: Interpretation
(1) In this Ordinance, unless the context otherwise requires
"act" includes a deliberate omission; Gazette Number: L.N.70of
1999
Version Date: 03/0811999
"adverse action", in relation to an individual, means any action that may adversely affect the
individual's rights, benefits, privileges, obligations or interests (including legitimate expectations);
"appointed day" means the day appointed under section 1(2);
"approved code of practice" means a code of practice approved under section 12;
"code of practice" includes-
(a) a standard;
(b) a specification; and
(c) any other documentary form of practical guidance;
"Commissioner" means the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data established under section 5(1);
"Committee" means the Personal Data (Privacy) Advisory Committee established under
section 11(1);
"complainant" means the individual, or the relevant person on behalf of an individual, who has
made a complaint;
"complaint" means a complaint under section 37;
"correction", in relation to personal data, means rectification, erasure or completion;
"daily penalty" means a penalty for each day on which the offence is continued after
conviction therefor;
"data" means any representation of information (including an expression of opinion) in any
document, and includes a personal identifier;
"data access request" means a request under section 18;
"data correction request" means a request under section 22(1);
"data protection principle" means any of the data protection principles set out in
Schedule 1;
"data subject", in relation to personal data, means the individual who is the subject of the
data;
"data user", in relation to personal data, means a person who, either alone or jointly or in
common with other persons, controls the collection, holding, processing or use of the data;
"data user return" means a data user return referred to in section 14(4);
"disclosing", in relation to personal data, includes disclosing information inferred from the data;
"document" includes, in addition to a document in writing-
(a) a disc, tape or other device in which data other than visual images are embodied so as to be
capable, with or without the aid of some other equipment, of being reproduced from the
disc, tape or other device; and
(b) a film, tape or other device in which visual images are embodied so as to be capable, with or
without the aid of some other equipment, of being reproduced from the film, tape or other
device;
"employment" means employment under-
(a) a contract of service or of apprenticeship; or
(b) a contract personally to execute any work or labour,
and related expressions shall be construed accordingly;
"enforcement notice" means a notice under section 50(1);
"financial regulator" means any of-
(a) the Monetary Authority appointed under section 5A of the Exchange Fund Ordinance (Cap
66);
(b) the Securities and Futures Commission established by section 3 of the Securities and Futures
Commission Ordinance (Cap 24);
(c) a clearing house within the meaning of section 2(1) of the Commodities Trading Ordinance IP/N/1/HKGIUIl
Page 5
(Cap 250) or a recognized clearing house within the meaning of the Securities and Futures
(Clearing Houses) Ordinance (Cap 420);
(d) the Exchange Company within the meaning of section 2(1) of the Commodities Trading
Ordinance (Cap 250);
(e) the Exchange Company within the meaning of section 2(1) of the Stock Exchanges
Unification Ordinance (Cap 361);
(t) the Insurance Authority appointed under section 4 of the Insurance Companies Ordinance
(Cap 41);
(g) the Registrar of Occupational Retirement Schemes appointed under section 5 of the
Occupational Retirement Schemes Ordinance (Cap 426);
(ga) the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority established by section 6 of the
Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Ordinance (Cap 485); (Added 4 of 1998 s. 14)
(h) a person specified in a notice under subsection (7) to be a regulator for the purposes of this
definition;
"inaccurate", in relation to personal data, means the data is incorrect, misleading, incomplete or
obsolete;
"inspection" means an inspection under section 36;
"investigation" means an investigation under section 38;
"log book", in relation to a data user, means the log book kept and maintained by the data user
under section 27(1);
"matching procedure" means any procedure whereby personal data collected for 1 or more
purposes in respect of 1 0 or more data subjects are compared (except by manual means) with
personal data collected for any other purpose in respect of those data subjects where the comparison
(a) is (whether in whole or in part) for the purpose of producing or verifying data that; or
(b) produces or verifies data in respect of which it is reasonable to believe that it is practicable
that the data,
may be used (whether immediately or at any subsequent time) for the purpose of taking adverse action
against any ofthose data subjects;
"matching procedure request" means a request under section 31 (1);
"personal data" means any data-
(a) relating directly or indirectly to a living individual;
(b) from which it is practicable for the identity of the individual to be directly or indirectly
ascertained; and
(c) in a form in which access to or processing of the data is practicable;
"personal data system" means any system, whether or not automated, which is used,
whether in whole or in part, by a data user for the collection, holding, processing or use of personal
data, and includes any document and equipment forming part of the system;
"personal identifier" means an identifier-
(a) that is assigned to an individual by a data user for the purpose of the operations of the user;
and
(b) that uniquely identifies that individual in relation to the data user,
but does not include an individual's name used to identify that individual;
"practicable" means reasonably practicable;
"prescribed officer" means a person employed or engaged under section 9(1);
"processing", in relation to personal data, includes amending, augmenting, deleting or rearranging
the data, whether by automated means or otherwise;
"register" means the' register of data users kept and maintained by the Commissioner under
section 15(1);
"relevant data user", in relation to-
(a) an inspection, means the data user who uses the personal data system which is the subject
of the inspection;
(b) a complaint, means the data user specified in the complaint;
(c) an investigation-
(i) in the case of an investigation initiated by a complaint, means the data user specified in
the complaint; IP/N/1/HKGIUIl
Page 6
(H) in any other case, means the data user the subject of the investigation;
(d) an enforcement notice, means the data user on whom the notice is served;
"relevant person", in relation to an individual (howsoever the individual is described), means-
(a) where the individual is a minor, a person who has parental responsibility for the minor;
(b) where the individual is incapable of managing his own affairs, a person who has been
appointed by a court to manage those affairs;
(c) in any other case, a person authorized in writing by the individual to make a data access
request, a data correction request, or both such requests, on behalf of the individual;
"requestor", in relation to-
(a) a data access request or data correction request, means the individual, or the relevant person
on behalf of an individual, who has made the request;
(b) a matching procedure request, means the data user who has made the request;
"specified", in relation to a form, means specified under section 67;
"third party", in relation to personal data, means any person other than-
(a) the data subject;
(b) a relevant person in the case of the data subject;
(c) the data user; or
(d) a person authorized in writing by the data user to collect, hold, process or use the data-
(i) under the direct control of the data user; or
(H) on behalf of the data user;
"use", in relation to personal data, includes disclose or transfer the data;
"would be likely to prejudice" includes would prejudice.
(2) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that paragraph (c) of the definition of "relevant
person" shall not be construed-
(a) to entitle a person who has only been authorized to make a data access request on behalf of
an individual to make a data correction request on behalf of the individual;
(b) to entitle a person who has only been authorized to make a data correction request on behalf
of an individual to make a data access request on behalf of the individual.
(3) Where under this Ordinance an act may be done with the prescribed consent of a person (and
howsoever the person is described), such consent-
(a) means the express consent of the person given voluntarily;
(b) does not include any consent which has been withdrawn by notice in writing served on the
person to whom the consent has been given (but without prejudice to so much of that act
that has been done pursuant to the consent at any time before the notice is so served).
(4) Subject to section 64(10), it is hereby declared that any reference in this Ordinance to the effect
that a data user (howsoever described)-
includes-(a) has contravened a requirement under this Ordinance; or
(b) is contravening a requirement under this Ordinance,
(i) where paragraph (a) is applicable, any case where the data user has done an act, or engaged
in a practice, in contravention of a data protection principle;
(H) where paragraph (b) is applicable, any case where the data user is doing an act, or engaging
in a practice, in contravention of a data protection principle.
(5) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Ordinance, a complaint may be made (and an
investigation, if any, initiated by the complaint may be carried out) in relation to a person who has ceased to
be a data user except any such person who has not at any time been a data user during the period of 2 years
immediately preceding the date on which the Commissioner receives the complaint and, accordingly, a
person in relation to whom such a complaint is made shall for the purposes of such complaint (and an
investigation, if any, initiated by such complaint) be deemed to be a data user, and the other provisions of
this Ordinance shall be construed accordingly.
(6) Any reference in this Ordinance to a data protection principle followed by a number is a
reference to the principle bearing that number set out in Schedule 1.
(7) The Chief Executive may, by notice in the Gazette, specifY a person to be a regulator for the
purposes of the definition of "financial regulator". (Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(8) It is hereby declared that a notice under subsection (7) is subsidiary legislation. (9) Where a person-IPIN/l/HKGIUIl
Page 7
(a) holds any office, engages in any profession or carries on any occupation; and
(b) is required by any law, or by any rules made under or by virtue of any law, to be a fit and
proper person (or words to the like effect) to hold that office, engage in that profession or
carry on that occupation,
then, for the purposes of this Ordinance, any conduct by that person by virtue of which he ceases, or would
cease, to be such a fit and proper person shall be deemed to be seriously improper conduct.
(10) Subsection (9) shall not operate to prevent seriously improper conduct including, for the purposes
of this Ordinance, conduct by virtue of which a person ceases, or would cease, to be a fit and proper person
notwithstanding that the conduct is not conduct to which that subsection applies.
(11) Words and expressions importing the neuter gender in relation to any data user shall include the
masculine and feminine genders.
(12) A person is not a data user in relation to any personal data which the person holds, processes or
uses solely on behalf of another person if, but only if, that first-mentioned person does not hold, process or
use, as the case may be, those data for any of his own purposes.
(13) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that, for the purposes of this Ordinance, any
conduct by a person by virtue of which he has or could become a disqualified person or a suspended person
under the Rules of Racing and Instructions by the Stewards of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, as in force
from time to time, is seriously improper conduct. (Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 8
Chapl;;:r; 486
Section: 3 Title: PERSONAL DATA
(PRfVACY}.ORDiNANCE
Heading: Application
(1) This Ordinance binds the Government.
(2) (*Not adopted as the laws of HKSAR) Gazette Number:
Version Date: 01107/1997
(Enacted 1995)
* See Decision of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress on Treatment of the Laws
Previously in Force in Hong Kong in accordance with Article 160 of the Basic Law of the Hong Kong
Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, which is published in volume 1, p.
1111. Chupter: 486 Title:
Section: 4 Heading: IP/N/1iHKGIUIl
Page 9
PBRSONAL DATA
.{p:lUVACY).OROlNANCE Gazette Number:
Data protection principles Version Date: 30/0611997
A data user shall not do an act, or engage in a practice, that contravenes a data protection principle
unless the act or practice, as the case may be, is required or permitted under this Ordinance.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/l/HKG/UIl
Page 10
Chapter: 486 Title: PERSONAL DATA
(PR-lVACY)·ORDINANCE Oa~tteN.umber:: :34ofl999
Section: s Hemiing: EstabHsbmen4 ett~f)f Version Date; o U07!l 997
Prh'a~y CQmmissioner for
Personal Data
Remarks:
Adaptation amendments retroactively made -see 34 of 1999 s. 3
PART II
ADMINISTRA nON
(1) For the purposes of this Ordinance, there is hereby established an office by the name of the
Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data.
(2) The Commissioner shall be a corporation sole with perpetual succession and
(a) shall have and may use a seal; and
(b) shall be capable of suing and being sued.
(3) The Chief Executive shall, by notice in the Gazette, appoint a person to be the Commissioner.
(Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(4) Subject to subsection (5), the person appointed to be the Commissioner shall hold office for a
period of 5 years and shall be eligible for reappointment for not more than 1 further period of 5 years.
(5) The person appointed to be the Commissioner may-
(a) at any time resign from his office by notice in writing to the Chief Executive; or
(b) be removed from office by the Chief Executive with the approval by resolution of the
Legislative Council on the ground of-
(i) inability to perform the functions of his office; or
(ii) misbehaviour. (Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(6) The Chief Executive shall determine- (Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(a) the emoluments; and
(b) the terms and conditions of appointment,
of the person appointed to be the Commissioner.
(7) The provisions of Schedule 2 shall have effect with respect to the Commissioner.
(8) Subject to subsection (9), the Commissioner shall not be regarded as a servant or agent of the
Government or as enjoying any status, immunity or privilege of the Government.
(9) The person appointed to be the Commissioner shall be deemed to be a public servant-
(a) within the meaning of section 2 of the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance (Cap 201); and
(b) for the purposes of that Ordinance.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486
Section:
Remarks: Title:
Heading: PERSONAL DATA
WRfVACY) ORDINANCE
C~mmiss:i()ner t()\luld no Version Date:
other of rICe
Adaptation amendments retroactively made -see 34 of 1999 s. 3 IP/N/lIHKG/U/1
Page 11
The person appointed to be the Commissioner shall not, without the specific approval of the Chief
Executive- (Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(a) hold any office of profit other than his office as Commissioner; or
(b) engage in any occupation for reward outside the functions of his office.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 12
486 Titk: PERSONAL DATA
(pRIVACY)·ORO.lNAI~CE
rming()f te~porary
va~an~y Gazette NUtr~her: :34 of 1999
Section: 1 Head!ng:
Remarks:
Adaptation amendments retroactively made -see 34 of 1999 s. 3
(1) Where the person appointed to be the Commissioner
(a) dies;
(b) resigns;
(c) is removed from office;
(d) is absent from Hong Kong; or Version Date:
(e) is for any other reason unable to perform the functions of his office, 01/07 !l997
then the Chief Executive may, by notice in writing, appoint a person to act as the Commissioner until, as the
case requires- (Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(i) a new Commissioner is appointed under section 5(3); or
(ii) the Commissioner resumes his office.
(2) A person appointed under subsection (1) to act as the Commissioner, whilst he is so appointed
(a) shall perform the functions; and
(b) may exercise the powers,
of the Commissioner under this Ordinance.
(3) Section 6 shall apply to a person appointed under subsection (1) to act as the Commissioner as if
that person were the Commissioner.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486
Section:
Remarks: PERSONAL DATA
{PRfVA.C\) ORJ)fNANCE
fun~tii)jlS ~md pi)wers ()f
Commissioner IP/NIIIHKGIU/1
Page 13
Gamtte Number: J40f 1999
{) 1 107!1997
Adaptation amendments retroactively made -see 34 of 1999 s. 3
(1) The Commissioner shall-
(a) monitor and supervise compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance;
(b) promote and assist bodies representing data users to prepare, for the purposes of section 12,
codes of practice for guidance in complying with the provisions of this Ordinance, in
particular the data protection principles;
(c) promote awareness and understanding of, and compliance with, the provisions of this
Ordinance, in particular the data protection principles;
(d) examine any proposed legislation (including subsidiary legislation) that the Commissioner
considers may affect the privacy of individuals in relation to personal data and report the
results of the examination to the person proposing the legislation;
(e) carry out inspections, including inspections of any personal data systems used by data users
which are departments of the Government or statutory corporations;
(f) for the better performance of his other functions, undertake research into, and monitor
developments in, the processing of data and computer technology in order to take account
of any likely adverse effects such developments may have on the privacy of individuals in
relation to personal data;
(g) liaise and co-operate with any person in any place outside Hong Kong-
(i) performing in that place any functions which, in the opinion of the Commissioner, are
similar (whether in whole or in part) to any ofthe Commissioner's functions under this
Ordinance; and
(ii) in respect of matters of mutual interest concerning the privacy of individuals in relation
to personal data; and
(h) perform such other functions as are imposed on him under this Ordinance or any other
enactment.
(2) The Commissioner may do all such things as are necessary for, or incidental or conducive to, the
better performance of his functions and in particular but without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing,
may-
(a) acquire and hold property of any description if in the opinion of the Commissioner such
property is necessary for-
(i) the accommodation of the Commissioner or of any prescribed officer; or
(ii) the performance of any function which the Commissioner may perform,
and, subject to the terms and conditions upon which such property is held, dispose of it;
(b) enter into, carry out, assign or accept the assignment of, vary or rescind, any contract,
agreement or other obligation;
(c) undertake and execute any lawful trust which has as an object the furtherance of any
function which the Commissioner is required or is permitted by this Ordinance to perform or
any other similar object;
(d) accept gifts and donations, whether subject to any trust or not;
(e) with the prior approval of the Chief Executive, become a member of or affiliate to any
international body concerned with (whether in whole or in part) the privacy of individuals in
relation to personal data; (Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(t) exercise such other powers as are conferred on him under this Ordinance or any other
enactment.
(3) The Commissioner may make and execute any document in the performance of his functions or
the exercise of his powers or in connection with any matter reasonably incidental to or consequential upon
the performance of his functions or the exercise of his powers. IP/N/l/HKGIU11
Page 14
(4) Any document purporting to be executed under the seal of the Commissioner shall be admitted in
evidence and shall, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, be deemed to have been duly executed.
(5) The Commissioner may from time to time cause to be prepared and published by notice in the
Gazette, for the guidance of data users, guidelines not inconsistent with this Ordinance, indicating the
manner in which he proposes to perform any of his functions, or exercise any of his powers, under this
Ordinance.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
Section: 9 Heading: PERSONALDAfA
(PRlV ACY)ORDlNANCB
Staff of Commissioner, etc. Version Date: IP/N/1/HKGIUIl
Page 15
30106/1997
(1) The Commissioner may-
(a) employ such persons (including technical and professional persons); and
(b) engage, other than by way of employment, such technical and professional persons,
as he thinks fit to assist him in the performance of his functions, and the exercise of his powers, under this
Ordinance.
(2) The Commissioner shall determine-
(a) the remuneration and terms and conditions of employment of any person, or any person
belonging to a class of persons, who may be employed under subsection (l)(a);
(b) the remuneration and terms and conditions of engagement of any person, or any person
belonging to a class of persons, who may be engaged under subsection (1 )(b).
(3) The Commissioner may-
(a) grant, or make provision for the grant of, pensions, gratuities and retirement benefits to
employees;
(b) provide other benefits for the welfare of employees and their dependants;
(c) authorize payments, whether or not legally due, to the personal representatives of a
deceased employee or to any person who was dependent on such employee at his death.
(4) The Commissioner may-
(a) establish, manage and control; or
(b) enter into an arrangement with any company or assocIatIOn for the establishment,
management and control by that company or association either alone or jointly with the
Commissioner of,
any fund or scheme for the purpose of providing for the pensions, gratuities, benefits and payments referred
to in subsection (3).
(5) The Commissioner may make contributions to and may require employees to make contributions
to any fund or scheme referred to in subsection (4).
(6) In this section "employees" includes any class of employee which the Commissioner
specifies and in subsection (3) includes former employees.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKG/U/1
Page 16
Ch~pter: 486 Title:
Secdon:- it) Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(pRlVACY) ORDINA"{cE
l)degations by
Ctlmmissioner Gazett~ Number:
Version Date: 30/06/199]
(1) Subject to subsection (2), the Commissioner may delegate in writing any of his functions or
powers under this Ordinance to any prescribed officer subject to such terms and conditions, if any, as he
thinks fit and specified in the delegation.
(2) The Commissioner shall not delegate any of his functions or powers under
(a) subsection (1);
(b) any provisions of any regulations made under this Ordinance which are specified in the
regulations as provisions which shall not be subject to subsection (1);
(c) any provisions of Schedule 2 which are specified in that Schedule as provisions which shall
not be subject to subsection (1).
(3) A delegate of the Commissioner-
(a) shall perform the delegated functions and may exercise the delegated powers as if the
delegate were the Commissioner; and
(b) shall be presumed to be acting in accordance with the relevant delegation in the absence of
evidence to the contrary.
(Enacted 1995) Owpter: .486 Title:
Section: H Heading: .PERSONA..LDATA
(PEi"VACY)ORDINANCB
EstabUs~m~ntofPers().:na.l Version. Date;
Dats·.(pnvac:y) •. Advisary
C€)mmittce IP/N/1/HKG/U/I
Page 17
3()f06! 1997
(l) There is hereby established a committee by the name of the Personal Data (Privacy) Advisory
Committee for the purpose of advising the Commissioner upon any matter relevant to the privacy of
individuals in relation to personal data or otherwise relevant to the operation of this Ordinance.
(2) The Committee shall consist of-
(a) the Commissioner, who shall be the chairman; and
(b) not less than 4 or more than 8 other persons, appointed by the Secretary for Home Affairs,
of whom-
(i) not less than 1 shall have not less than 5 years' experience in the processing of data;
and
(ii) not more than 1 shall be a public officer.
(3) The members of the Committee appointed under subsection (2)(b) shall hold office for such
period and upon such terms as the Secretary for Home Affairs specifies in their respective appointments or
from time to time.
(4) A member of the Committee appointed under subsection (2)(b) may resign at any time by notice
in writing delivered to the Secretary for Home Affairs.
(5) The Committee may regulate its procedure.
(Enacted 1995) IP/NI1 IHKG/U!l
Page 18
Chart~r: 48:6 Title:
Section: 12 fk:ading; PERSONAL DATA
(pRJVACY)ORDrNANCE Gazette Number:
Approval I,)f (:OO(lsof Version Date:
practice by Commissioner
PART III
CODES OF PRACTICE 30!06fl997
(1) Subject to subsections (8) and (9), for the purpose of providing practical guidance in respect of
any requirements under this Ordinance imposed on data users, the Commissioner may-
( a) approve and issue such codes of practice (whether prepared by him or not) as in his opinion
are suitable for that purpose; and
(b) approve such codes of practice issued or proposed to be issued otherwise than by him as in
his opinion are suitable for that purpose.
(2) Where a code of practice is approved under subsection (1), the Commissioner shall, by notice in
the Gazette-
(a) identify the code concerned and specify the date on which its approval is to take effect; and
(b) specify for which of the requirements under this Ordinance the code is so approved.
(3) The Commissioner may-
(a) from time to time revise the whole or any part of any code of practice prepared by him
under this section; and
(b) approve any revision or proposed revision of the whole or any part of any code of practice
for the time being approved under this section,
and the provisions of subsection (2) shall, with the necessary modifications, apply in relation to the approval
of any revision under this subsection as they apply in relation to the approval of a code of practice under
subsection (1).
(4) The Commissioner may at any time withdraw his approval from any code of practice approved
under this section.
(5) Where under subsection (4) the Commissioner withdraws his approval from a code of practice
approved under this section, he shall, by notice in the Gazette, identify the code concerned and specify the
date on which his approval of it is to cease to have effect.
(6) References in this Ordinance to an approved code of practice are references to that code as it has
effect for the time being by virtue of any revision of the whole or any part of it approved under this section.
(7) The power of the Commissioner under subsection (1)(b) to approve a code of practice issued or
proposed to be issued otherwise than by him shall include power to approve a part of such a code and,
accordingly, in this Ordinance "code of practice" may be read as including a part of such a
code.
(8) The Commissioner shall, not later than 6 months after the day on which this section comes into
operation (or within such further period, not exceeding 6 months, as the Secretary for Home Affairs may
allow), approve a code of practice under subsection (1) in respect of all or any requirements referred to in
that subsection in so far as such requirements relate to personal data which are personal identifiers.
(9) The Commissioner shall, before approving a code of practice under subsection (1) or any
revision or proposed revision of the code under subsection (3), consult with-
(a) such bodies representative of data users to which the code or the code as so revised, as the
case may be, will apply (whether in whole or in part); and
(b) such other interested persons,
as he thinks fit.
(10) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that different codes of practice may be
approved under subsection (1) (including any code of practice referred to in subsection (8)) for different
classes of data users, and may be so approved for the same or different requirements referred to in
subsection (1).
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title;
13 PERSQNALDATA
(PR1VACy)OWtN,<\N'CE
U'scofappraVed~~~ ()f
pr~~ti~e.npra~~e4~ngs
under this: Ordinance Il?~/l/fI}(Ci/lJ/l
l?age 19
Gazette Number:
30f061199'7
(1) A failure on the part of any data user to observe any provision of an approved code of practice
shall not of itself render the data user liable to any civil or criminal proceedings but where in any proceedings
under this Ordinance a data user is alleged to have contravened a requirement under this Ordinance, being a
requirement for which there was an approved code of practice at the time of the alleged contravention,
subsection (2) shall have effect with respect to such code in relation to those proceedings.
(2) Any provision of a code of practice which appears to a specified body to be relevant to a
requirement under this Ordinance alleged to have been contravened shall be admissible in evidence in the
proceedings under this Ordinance concerned and if it is proved that there was at any material time a failure
to observe any provision of the code which appears to that body to be relevant to any matter which it is
necessary to prove in order to establish a contravention of such requirement, that matter shall be taken as
proved in the absence of evidence that such requirement was in respect of that matter complied with
otherwise than by way of observance of that provision.
(3) In any proceedings under this Ordinance, a code of practice which appears to a specified body to
be the subject of a notice under section 12 shall be taken to be the subject of such notice in the absence of
evidence to the contrary.
(4) In this section-
"proceedings under this Ordinance" includes any criminal proceedings
where a data user is alleged to have committed an offence by reason of a contravention of a
requirement under this Ordinance;
"specified body" means-
(a) a magistrate;
(b) a court; or
(c) the Administrative Appeals Board.
(Enacted 1995) IJ>~/l/lJ}((J/lJ/l
J>age 20
Chapter: 486
Section: 14 Title:
Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(pRIVACY) ORDINANCE
Data user returns
PART IV Version Date:
DATA lJSER RETlJRNS AND RECJISTER OF DATA lJSERS 30/0611997
(1) Subject to subsection (2), the Commissioner may, by notice in the (Jazette, specify a class of
data users to which this section shall apply.
(2) The Commissioner shall, before specifying a class of data users in a notice under subsection (1),
consult with-
(a) such bodies representative of data users belonging to that class; and
(b) such other interested persons,
as he thinks fit.
(3) This section shall not apply to a data user except a data user belonging to a class of data users
specified in a notice under subsection (1) which is in force.
(4) A data user shall submit to the Commissioner a data user return
(a) in the specified form;
(b) containing the prescribed information required by the return in relation to the data user;
( c) in the case of-
(i) a data user which belongs to the class of data users concerned on the day on which
the notice under subsection (1) specifying that class commences, not earlier than 3
months before, and not later than, each anniversary of that day;
(ii) a data user which first belongs to the class of data users concerned on a day after the
day on which the notice under subsection (1) specifying that class commences, not
earlier than 3 months before, and not later than, each anniversary of that
first-mentioned day; and
(d) accompanied by the prescribed fee.
(5) The Commissioner shall cause a notice to be published not less than once during every period of
6 months-
(a) m-
(i) the (Jazette; and
(ii) not less than 1 Chinese language newspaper (and in the Chinese language) and not less
than 1 English language newspaper (and in the English language), each of which shall
be a newspaper circulating generally in Hong Kong; and
(b) subject to subsection (6), specifying the places at which and the hours during which data
user returns are available to be obtained by data users for the purposes of this section.
(6) The Commissioner shall not exercise his power under subsection (5)(b) to specify places which
are (Jovemment offices unless and until he has the approval in writing of the Secretary for Home Affairs to
do so.
(7) The Commissioner shall cause data user returns to be available to be obtained by data users
(a) free of charge; and
(b) at the places and during the hours specified in the last notice published under subsection (5).
(8) Where any prescribed information contained in a data user return submitted under subsection (4)
to the Commissioner by a data user changes subsequent to the submission, then the data user shall serve a
notice in writing on the Commissioner specifying such change-
(a) if, but only if-
(i) such information is specified in the return as information to which this subsection
applies; and
(ii) the return contains, or has annexed to it
CA) a copy of this subsection; or
(B) a statement summarizing the requirement imposed by this subsection on the data user; and
(b) not later than 30 days after such change.
(9) It is hereby declared that-
(a) a notice under subsection (1) is subsidiary legislation; IPIN/1/HKGIU/1
Page 21
(b) where a data user belongs to 2 or more classes of data users specified in 2 or more notices
under subsection (1) which are in force, then, for the purposes of this section, that data user
shall be deemed to belong only to that class of data users specified in the first of those
notices to be published in the Gazette; and
(c) subsection (3) shall not operate to prejudice the generality of section 67(4)( c).
(10) In this section and section 15, "prescribed information" means any information
specified in Schedule 3.
(Enacted 1995) IJ>~/1/lIFC(J/LJ/1
J>age 22
Chapter: 486 Tide; PERSONAL DATA Gamtt~ Numher:
(pRlVACY)ORD1NANCE
Section: 15 Heading: Register of data users Version Date: 30106/1997
(l) The Commissioner shall use-
(a) data user returns submitted to him under section 14(4); and
(b) any notices served on him under section 14(8),
to keep and maintain a register of data users which have submitted such returns.
(2) The register shall-
(a) be in the form of a database; and
(b) contain, in respect of each data user who has submitted a data user return under section
14(4), such particulars of the information supplied in that return as the Commissioner thinks
fit.
(3) The Commissioner may, by notice in writing served on a data user, require the data user to
submit a notice in the prescribed form containing such prescribed information in relation to the data user as
the Commissioner may reasonably require in order to keep and maintain the register in so far as it relates to
that data user, and the data user shall so submit the second-mentioned notice within such period (being a
period of not less than 30 days after service of the first-mentioned notice) and in such manner as the
Commissioner requires in the first-mentioned notice.
(4) Where any prescribed information submitted to the Commissioner under subsection (3) by a data
user changes subsequent to the submission, then the data user shall serve a notice in writing on the
Commissioner specifying such change-
(a) if, but only if-
(i) such information is specified in the notice concerned under that subsection as
information to which this subsection applies; and
(ii) the notice referred to in subparagraph (i) contains, or has annexed to it
(A) a copy of this subsection; or
(B) a statement summarizing the requirement imposed by this subsection on the data
user; and
(b) not later than 30 days after such change.
(5) If the Commissioner is satisfied that a person has ceased to be a data user, he may delete from
the register any particulars contained therein relating to that person in that person's capacity as a data user.
(6) A person who has ceased to be a data user may, by notice in the specified form served on the
Commissioner, request the Commissioner to delete from the register the particulars contained therein
relating to that person in that person's capacity as a data user, and the Commissioner shall, not later than 3
months after the date on which he receives that notice, comply with that request unless it has been
withdrawn by that person.
(Enacted 1995) IPIN/1/HKGlU11
Page 23
Ch~pter: 486 Tit!oe: PERSONAL DATA Oa-le:tte Number:
(PRIVACY) ORDIN/\NCE
Section: 16 Heading: Inspection of register Version Date: 30/0611997
(1) The Commissioner shall provide facilities for making the particulars contained in the register
available for inspection-
(a) by any person;
(b) in visible and legible form;
(c) during ordinary office hours; and
(d) free of charge.
(2) The Commissioner shall-
(a) on receipt of an application in the specified form from a person; and
(b) on payment of the prescribed fee,
provide a copy in writing of the particulars contained in the register in respect of the data user, or the class
of data users, specified in the application.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 24
Chapter: 486
Section: Title:
Heading: PERSONl\L.DA·fA·
(PRJ\lACY)··OR!!tNANCE
Register snaUnotJimit", de. Verskm· Date:
operati~n of this OrdInance
(1) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that
(a) whether or not the register contains any particulars;
(b) any particulars contained in the register,
in respect of a data user shall not of itself-3{}!06J 19~1·
(i) limit, restrict or qualify the operation of any of the provisions of this Ordinance (including
section 2(5) and the data protection principles) in relation to the data user;
(ii) exempt the data user from the operation of any of the provisions of this Ordinance.
(2) Subsection (1) shall not prejudice the operation of any limitation, restriction, qualification or
exemption provided for in the other provisions of this Ordinance.
(Enacted 1995) Chapt~r: 486
Section: 18 Heading: PBRSONAL DATAGa.7k'tt~ Number:
(PRfVACY) ORDtNANCE
Data access request Version Date:
PART V
ACCESS TO AND CORRECTION OF PERSONAL DATA IP/N/1/HKG/U!1
Page 25
30/0611997
(1) An individual, or a relevant person on behalf of an individual, may make a request-
(a) to be informed by a data user whether the data user holds personal data of which the
individual is the data subject;
(b) if the data user holds such data, to be supplied by the data user with a copy of such data.
(2) A data access request under both paragraphs of subsection (1) shall be treated as being a single
request, and the provisions of this Ordinance shall be construed accordingly.
(3) A data access request under paragraph (a) of subsection (1) may, in the absence of evidence to
the contrary, be treated as being a data access request under both paragraphs of that subsection, and the
provisions of this Ordinance (including subsection (2)) shall be construed accordingly.
(4) A data user who, in relation to personal data-
(a) does not hold the data; but
(b) controls the use of the data in such a way as to prohibit the data user who does hold the
data from complying (whether in whole or in part) with a data access request which relates
to the data,
shall be deemed to hold those data, and the provisions of this Ordinance (including this section) shall be
construed accordingly.
(Enacted 1995) IPINIlIHKG/UI 1
Page 26
Chapter: 486 Tide:
Stx.tion: 19 PERSONAL DATA
(PRIV ACY}ORDrNl\.NCE
C~Hn pUam::e-witbdata
access request Version Date: 30106/1997
(1) Subject to subsection (2) and sections 20 and 28(5), a data user shall comply with a data access
request not later than 40 days after receiving the request.
(2) A data user who is unable to comply with a data access request within the period specified in
subsection (1) shall-
(a) before the expiration ofthat period-
(i) by notice in writing inform the requestor that the data user is so unable and of the
reasons why the data user is so unable; and
(ii) comply with the request to the extent, if any, that the data user is able to comply with
the request; and
(b) as soon as practicable after the expiration of that period, comply or fully comply, as the case
may be, with the request.
(3) A copy of the personal data to be supplied by a data user in compliance with a data access
request shall-
(a) be supplied by reference to the data at the time when the request is received except that the
copy may take account of-
(i) any processing of the data-
(A) made between that time and the time when the copy is supplied; and
(B) that would have been made irrespective of the receipt of the request; and
(ii) subject to subsection (5), any correction to the data made between that time and the
time when the copy is supplied;
(b) where any correction referred to paragraph (a)(ii) has been made to the data, be
accompanied by a notice stating that the data have been corrected pursuant to that
paragraph (or words to the like effect); and
(c) as far as practicable, be-
(i) intelligible unless the copy is a true copy of a document which
(A) contains the data; and
(B) is unintelligible on its face;
(ii) readily comprehensible with any codes used by the data user adequately explained;
and
(iii) lll-
(iv)
(v)
(4) Where(A) subject to sub-subparagraph (B), the language specified in the request or, if no
language is so specified, the language in which the request is made (which may
be the Chinese or English language in either case);
(B) a language other than the language specified in the request or, if no language is
so specified, the language in which the request is made, if, but only if-
(I) the language in which the data are held is not the language specified in the
request or, if no language is so specified, the language in which the request
is made, as the case may be; and
(ll) subject to section 20(2)(b), the copy is a true copy of a document which
contains the data;
without prejudice to the generality of subparagraph (iii) but subject to subsection (4),
be in the form, or one of the forms, if any, specified in the request;
where subparagraph (iv) is not applicable, in such form as the data user thinks fit.
(a) a data access request specifies the form or forms in which a copy of the personal data to be
supplied in compliance with the request is or are sought; and
(b) the data user concerned is unable to supply the copy in that form or any of those forms, as
the case may be, because it is not practicable for the data user to do so, then the data user shall-IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 27
(i) where there is only one form in which it is practicable for the data user to supply the copy,
supply the copy in that form accompanied by a notice in writing informing the requestor that
that form is the only form in which it is practicable for the data user to supply the copy;
(ii) in any other case-
(A) as soon as practicable, by notice in writing inform the requestor-
(I) that it is not practicable for the data user to supply the copy in the form or any
of the forms, as the case may be, specified in the request;
(11) of the forms in which it is practicable for the data user to supply the copy; and
(Ill) that the requestor may, not later than 14 days after the requestor has received
the notice, specify in writing one of the forms referred to in sub-subparagraph
(11) in which the copy is to be supplied; and
(B) as soon as practicable, supply the copy-
(I) in the form specified in the response, if any, to the notice referred to in
subparagraph (A);
(11) if there is no such response within the period specified in subparagraph (A)(III),
supply the copy in anyone of the forms referred to in subparagraph (A)(Il) as
the data user thinks fit.
(5) Subparagraph (ii) of paragraph (a) and paragraph (b) of subsection (3) shall expire on the 1st
anniversary of the appointed day.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/lIHKGIUII
Page 28
486 Title:
Section: 20 Heading: PERSONALOATA
{PRlVACY)ORDfNANCE Gazette Number:
CireUntstan(:t$~ll '\~bkh Version .Date~
dutauser .shan~r may
refuse to comply with data
access request 30/0Q/1997
(1) A data user shall refuse to comply with a data access request-
(a) if the data user is not supplied with such information as the data user may reasonably
require-
(i) in order to satisfY the data user as to the identity of the requestor;
(ii) where the requestor purports to be a relevant person, in order to satisfY the data user
(A) as to the identity of the individual in relation to whom the requestor purports to
be such a person; and
(B) that the requestor is such a person in relation to that individual;
(b) subject to subsection (2), if the data user cannot comply with the request without disclosing
personal data of which any other individual is the data subject unless the data user is
satisfied that the other individual has consented to the disclosure of the data to the requestor;
or
(c) in any other case, if compliance with the request is for the time being prohibited under this
Ordinance.
(2) Subsection (1)(b) shall not operate-
(a) so that the reference in that subsection to personal data of which any other individual is the
data subject includes a reference to information identifYing that individual as the source of
the personal data to which the data access request concerned relates unless that information
names or otherwise explicitly identifies that individual;
(b) so as to excuse a data user from complying with the data access request concerned to the
extent that the request may be complied with without disclosing the identity of the other
individual, whether by the omission of names, or other identifYing particulars, or otherwise.
(3) A data user may refuse to comply with a data access request if-
(a) the request is not in writing in the Chinese or English language;
(b) the data user is not supplied with such information as the data user may reasonably require
to locate the personal data to which the request relates;
(c) the request follows 2 or more similar requests made by-
(i) the individual who is the data subject in respect of the personal data to which the
request relates;
(ii) one or more relevant persons on behalf of that individual; or
(iii) any combination of that individual and those relevant persons,
and it is unreasonable in all the circumstances for the data user to comply with the request;
(d) subject to subsection (4), any other data user controls the use of the data in such a way as
to prohibit the first-mentioned data user from complying (whether in whole or in part) with
the request;
(e) the form in which the request shall be made has been specified under section 67 and the
request is not made in that form; or
(t) in any other case, compliance with the request may for the time being be refused under this
Ordinance, whether by virtue of an exemption under Part VIII or otherwise.
(4) Subsection (3)(d) shall not operate so as to excuse a data user from complying with the data
access request concerned-
(a) in so far as the request relates to section 18(1)(a), to any extent;
(b) in so far as the request relates to section 18(1 )(b), to any extent that the data user can
comply with the request without contravening the prohibition concerned.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Trtle:
Section; 21 He.acling: PERSONAL-DATA
(PRlVACY)ORDlNA>...rCE
Notificatio n of refusal to
~(tmplywitb data access
request Version Date: IPINIlIHKG/UIl
Page 29
3Q!06l1'997
(1) Subject to subsection (2), a data user who pursuant to section 20 refuses to comply with a data
access request shall, as soon as practicable but, in any case, not later than 40 days after receiving the
request, by notice in writing inform the requestor-
(a) of the refusal;
(b) subject to subsection (2), of the reasons for the refusal; and
(c) where section 20(3)(d) is applicable, of the name and address of the other data user
concerned.
(2) Where-
(a) a data user has pursuant to section 20 refused to comply with a data access request; and
(b) the refusal also relates to section 18(1)(a) by virtue of section 63,
then the data user may, in the notice under subsection (1) concerned, in place of the matters of which the
data user is required to inform the requestor under that subsection, inform the requestor that the data user
has no personal data the existence of which he is required to disclose to the requestor (or words to the like
effect).
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKG/U/1
Page 30
Ch~pter: 486 Title: PERSONAL DATA Gazette Number:
(pRJVACY)ORDINAN'CE
Section: 22 Heading: Data correction request Version Date: 30/0611997
(1) Subject to subsection (2), where-
(a) a copy of personal data has been supplied by a data user in compliance with a data access
request; and
(b) the individual, or a relevant person on behalf of the individual, who is the data subject
considers that the data are inaccurate,
then that individual or relevant person, as the case may be, may make a request that the data user make the
necessary correction to the data.
(2) A data user who, in relation to personal data
(a) does not hold the data; but
(b) controls the processing of the data in such a way as to prohibit the data user who does hold
the data from complying (whether in whole or in part) with section 23(1) in relation to a data
correction request which relates to the data,
shall be deemed to be a data user to whom such a request may be made, and the provisions of this
Ordinance (including subsection (1)) shall be construed accordingly.
(3) Without prejudice to the generality of sections 23(1)(c) and 25(2), if a data user, subsequent to
the receipt of a data correction request but before complying with the request pursuant to section 24 or
refusing to comply with the request pursuant to section 25, discloses to a third party the personal data to
which the request relates, then the user shall take all practicable steps to advise the third party that the data
are the subject of a data correction request still under consideration by the user (or words to the like effect).
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
Section: 23 Heading: PERSONALDATA
(pRJVACY) ORDINANCE
COin pH~ulC:~ with data
corredion request IP/N/IIHKGIUIl
Page 31
Gazette Number:
Version Date: 30106/1997
(1) Subject to subsection (2) and section 24, a data user who is satisfied that personal data to which
a data correction request relates are inaccurate shall, not later than 40 days after receiving the request
(a) make the necessary correction to those data;
(b) supply the requestor with a copy of those data as so corrected; and
(c) subject to subsection (3), if-
(i) those data have been disclosed to a third party during the 12 months immediately
preceding the day on which the correction is made; and
(ii) the data user has no reason to believe that the third party has ceased using those data
for the purpose (including any directly related purpose) for which the data were
disclosed to the third party,
take all practicable steps to supply the third party with a copy of those data as so corrected
accompanied by a notice in writing stating the reasons for the correction.
(2) A data user who is unable to comply with subsection (1) in relation to a data correction request
within the period specified in that subsection shall-
(a) before the expiration ofthat period-
(i) by notice in writing inform the requestor that the data user is so unable and of the
reasons why the data user is so unable; and
(ii) comply with that subsection to the extent, if any, that the data user is able to comply
with that subsection; and
(b) as soon as practicable after the expiration of that period, comply or fully comply, as the case
may be, with that subsection.
(3) A data user is not required to comply with subsection (1)(c) in any case where the disclosure
concerned of the personal data to the third party consists of the third party's inspection of a register or other
like document-
(a) in which the data are entered or otherwise recorded; and
(b) which is available for inspection by the public,
but this subsection shall not apply if the third party has been supplied with a copy, certified by or under the
authority of the data user to be correct, of the data.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 32
Chapter: 486 Titk:
Section: 14 PERSONAL DATA
(pRiVACY} ORDINANCE Gazette Number:
Circumstances in whkh V~rsiQn Date:
.data user sfulUor may
refuse to comply with d~ta
correction request
(1) Subject to subsection (2), a data user shall refuse to comply with section 23(1) in relation to a
data correction request if the data user is not supplied with such information as the data user may reasonably
require-
(a) in order to satisfY the data user as to the identity of the requestor;
(b) where the requestor purports to be a relevant person, in order to satisfY the data user-
(i) as to the identity of the individual in relation to whom the requestor purports to be
such a person; and
(ii) that the requestor is such a person in relation to that individual.
(2) Subsection (1) shall not apply to a data correction request where the requestor is the same person
as the requestor in respect of the data access request which gave rise to the data correction request.
(3) A data user may refuse to comply with section 23(1) in relation to a data correction request if
(a) the request is not in writing in the Chinese or English language;
(b) the data user is not satisfied that the personal data to which the request relates are
inaccurate;
(c) the data user is not supplied with such information as the data user may reasonably require
to ascertain in what way the personal data to which the request relates are inaccurate;
(d) the data user is not satisfied that the correction which is the subject of the request is
accurate; or
(e) subject to subsection (4), any other data user controls the processing of the personal data to
which the request relates in such a way as to prohibit the first-mentioned data user from
complying (whether in whole or in part) with that section.
(4) Subsection (3)(e) shall not operate so as to excuse a data user from complying with section 23(1)
in relation to the data correction request concerned to the extent that the data user can comply with that
section without contravening the prohibition concerned.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
Section: 25 PERSONAL DATA
(PRfVACY) ORDNANCE
Notifh:atiou of refusal to"
comply with data
correctioureqlltlst;ete. IPINIl/HKG/UIl
Page 33
Gazette Number:
Version Date: 30J06l1997
(1) A data user who pursuant to section 24 refuses to comply with section 23(1) in relation to a data
correction request shall, as soon as practicable but, in any case, not later than 40 days after receiving the
request, by notice in writing inform the requestor-
(a) of the refusal and the reasons for the refusal; and
(b) where section 24(3)(e) is applicable, of the name and address of the other data user
concerned.
(2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), where-
(a) the personal data to which a data correction request relates are an expression of opinion; and
(b) the data user concerned is not satisfied that the opinion is inaccurate,
then the data user shall-
(i) make a note, whether annexed to that data or elsewhere-
(A) of the matters in respect of which the opinion is considered by the requestor to be
inaccurate; and
(B) in such a way that those data cannot be used by a person (including the data user and
a third party) without the note being drawn to the attention of, and being available for
inspection by, that person; and
(ii) attach a copy of the note to the notice referred to in subsection (1) which relates to that
request.
(3) In this section, "expression of opinion" includes an assertion of fact which
(a) is unverifiable; or
(b) in all the circumstances of the case, is not practicable to verify.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKG/UIl
Page 34
Chapter; 486 Title:
26 Heading~ PERSONAL DATA
(PruVAC'{)ORDfNA.:.~CE Gazette Number:
Eras-ure ofpers(yrlaldata no VersiQu D<ite:
longer required
(1) A data user shall erase personal data held by the data user where the data are no longer required
for the purpose (including any directly related purpose) for which the data were used unless-
(a) any such erasure is prohibited under any law; or
(b) it is in the public interest (including historical interest) for the data not to be erased.
(2) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that-
(a) a data user shall erase personal data in accordance with subsection (1) notwithstanding that
any other data user controls (whether in whole or in part) the processing of the data;
(b) the first-mentioned data user shall not be liable in an action for damages at the suit of the
second-mentioned data user in respect of any such erasure.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 48Q Title;
Section: 27 Heading; Ifl~/I/lIFCCi/lJ/l
flage 35
PERSONAL DATA Gazette Number:
(pRIVACY)ORDLNANCE
IAgbook to .~kept lit data Ve:rsIOfl Date; 30106/ 1997
user
(1) A data user shall keep and maintain a log book
(a) for the purposes of this flart;
(b) in the Chinese or English language; and
(c) such that any particulars entered in the log book pursuant to this section are not erased
there from before the expiration of-
(i) subject to subparagraph (ii), 4 years after the day on which they were so entered;
(ii) such longer or shorter period as may be prescribed, either generally or in any particular
case, by regulations made under section 70.
(2) A data user shall in accordance with subsection (3) enter in the log book-
(a) where pursuant to section 20 the data user refuses to comply with a data access request,
particulars of the reasons for the refusal;
(b) where pursuant to section 21 (2) the data user does not comply with section 21 (I),
particulars ofthe prejudice that would be caused to the interest protected by the exemption
concerned under Part VIII if the existence or non-existence of the personal data to which the
data access request concerned relates were disclosed;
(c) where pursuant to section 24 the data user refuses to comply with section 23(1) in relation
to a data correction request, particulars of the reasons for the refusal;
(d) any other particulars required by regulations made under section 70 to be entered in the log
book.
(3) The particulars required by subsection (2) to be entered by a data user in the log book shall be so
entered-
(a) in the case of particulars referred to in paragraph (a) of that subsection, on or before the
notice under section 21(1) is served in respect of the refusal to which those particulars
relate;
(b) in the case of particulars referred to in paragraph (b) of that subsection, on or before the
notice under section 21(1) is served in respect of the refusal to which those particulars
relate;
(c) in the case of particulars referred to in paragraph (c) of that subsection, on or before the
notice under section 25(1) is served in respect of the refusal to which those particulars
relate;
(d) in the case of particulars referred to in paragraph (d) of that subsection, within the period
specified in regulations made under section 70 in respect of those particulars.
( 4 ) A data user shall-
(a) permit the Commissioner to inspect and copy the log book (or any part thereof) at any
reasonable time; and
(b) without charge, afford the Commissioner such facilities and assistance as the Commissioner
may reasonably require for the purposes of such inspection and copying.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKGIUIl
Page 36
Chapt~r: 48~
28 Title:
. Heading; PERSONAL DATA.
(PRrvAC~<{) OR})INANtE
lmpt)sidonoffetsbyda~ Version Date:
user 30!O6!1997
(1) A data user shall not impose a fee for complying or refusing to comply with a data access request
or data correction request unless the imposition of the fee is expressly permitted by this section.
(2) Subject to subsections (3) and (4), a data user may impose a fee for complying with a data
access request.
(3) No fee imposed for complying with a data access request shall be excessive.
(4) Where pursuant to section 19(3)(c)(iv) or (v) or (4)(ii)(B)(II) a data user may comply with a data
access request by supplying a copy of the personal data to which the request relates in one of 2 or more
forms, the data user shall not, and irrespective of the form in which the data user complies with the request,
impose a fee for complying with the request which is higher than the lowest fee the data user imposes for
complying with the request in any of those forms.
(5) A data user may refuse to comply with a data access request unless and until any fee imposed by
the data user for complying with the request has been paid.
(6) Where-
(a) a data user has complied with a data access request by supplying a copy of the personal data
to which the request relates; and
(b) the data subj ect, or a relevant person on behalf of the data subj ect, requests the data user to
supply a further copy of those data,
then the data user may, and notwithstanding the fee, if any, that the data user imposed for complying with
that data access request, impose a fee for supplying that further copy which is not more than the
administrative and other costs incurred by the data user in supplying that further copy.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
Section: 29 Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(PRIVACy)ORD!NANCE
~rvke and languagc<of
certain notices IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 37
Gazi!tte Num.ber:
Version Date: 30!0611997
Without prejudice to the generality of section 68, where pursuant to a data access request or data
correction request a data user is required to, or may, inform a requestor of any matter by notice in writing,
then the requestor shall be deemed not to be so informed unless and until the requestor is served with the
notice-
(a) in the language in which the request is made if that language is Chinese or English;
(b) in any other case, in the Chinese or English language as the data user thinks fit.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 38
Chapter:
Section: 486 Title:
He:a£iing: PERSQNALDATA
(PR.IVACY) ORDINANCE (}a;rette Number: LN. 409 of
1997
Matchingpro(~dllte: UQi tQ VersJonDate;
be c.arrie:dnut. ex~e:pt with 01fOg/l997
consent (}fduCasubject:,.ek,
PART VI
MATCHING PROCEDURES AND TRANSFERS OF PERSONAL DATA, ETC.
(1) A data user shall not carry out, whether in whole or in part, a matching procedure-
(a) unless and until each individual who is a data subject of the personal data the subject of that
procedure has given his prescribed consent to the procedure being carried out;
(b) unless and until the Commissioner has consented under section 32 to the procedure being
carried out;
(c) unless the procedure-
(i) belongs to a class of matching procedures specified in a notice under subsection (2);
and
(ii) is carried out in accordance with the conditions, if any, specified in the notice; or
(d) unless it is required or permitted under any provision of any Ordinance specified in Schedule
4.
(2) For the purposes of this section, the Commissioner may, by notice in the Gazette, specify
(a) a class of matching procedures;
(b) subject to subsection (3), the conditions, if any, subject to which a matching procedure
belonging to that class shall be carried out.
(3) The Commissioner shall, before specifying any conditions in a notice under subsection (2),
consult with-
(a) such bodies representative of data users to which the conditions will apply (whether in whole
or in part); and
(b) such other interested persons,
as he thinks fit.
(4) It is hereby declared that a notice under subsection (2) is subsidiary legislation.
(5) Subject to subsection (6), a data user shall not take adverse action against an individual in
consequence (whether in whole or in part) of the carrying out of a matching procedure-
(a) unless the data user has served a notice in writing on the individual-
(i) specifying the adverse action it proposes to take and the reasons therefor; and
(ii) stating that the individual has 7 days after the receipt of the notice within which to
show cause why that action should not be taken; and
(b) until the expiration of those 7 days.
(6) Subsection (5) shall not operate to prevent a data user from taking adverse action against an
individual if compliance with the requirements of that subsection would prejudice any investigation into the
commission of an offence or the possible commission of an offence.
(Enacted 1995) 486 Title:
Heading:; PEIL.'-'ONAL DATA
(PRtVACy) ORDiNANCE
M.atebing.·.pracedure
request IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 39
Vets/Oil Date:· 30!06! 1997
(1) A data user proposing to carry out, whether in whole or in part, a matching procedure may make
a request-
(a) in the specified form;
(b) to the Commissioner; and
(c) seeking the Commissioner's consent under section 32 to the carrying out of that procedure.
(2) Where 2 or more data users may each make a matching procedure request in respect of the same
matching procedure, then any of those data users may make such a request on behalf of all those data users,
and the provisions of this Ordinance (including subsection (1)) shall be construed accordingly.
(3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (2), it is hereby declared that a matching
procedure request may be made in relation to 2 or more matching procedures, or a series of matching
procedures, and the other provisions of this Ordinance (including section 32) shall be construed accordingly.
(Enacted 1995) IPIN/IIHKGIUIl
Page 40
Chapter; 486
Section: 32 Title: PERSONALDATA
(PRfVACY}ORDINANCE . .. ".
net~f'minat~on Of matching Version. Date:
procedure request
(1) The Commissioner shall determine a matching procedure request
(a) not later than 45 days after receiving the request; and
(b) by taking into account the prescribed matters applicable to the request and-
(i) where he is satisfied as to those matters, serving a notice in writing on the requestor
stating that he consents to the carrying out of the matching procedure to which the
request relates subject to the conditions, if any, specified in the notice;
(ii) where he is not so satisfied, serving a notice in writing on the requestor stating-
(A) that he refuses to consent to the carrying out of the matching procedure to which
the request relates; and
(B) such of those matters in respect of which he is not so satisfied and the reasons
why he is not so satisfied.
(2) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that a consent in a notice under subsection
(1 )(b )(i) to the carrying out of a matching procedure to which a matching procedure request relates shall not
operate to prevent a data user who is neither the requestor nor, where section 31(2) applies to the request,
any data user on whose behalf such request was made, from carrying out, whether in whole or in part, the
procedure.
(3) An appeal may be made to the Administrative Appeals Board
( a) against-
(i) any conditions specified in a notice under subsection (1) (b )(i); or
(ii) any refusal specified in a notice under subsection (1) (b)(ii); and
(b) by the requestor on whom the notice was served or any data user on whose behalf the
matching procedure request concerned was made.
(4) In this section, "prescribed matter" means a matter specified in Schedule 5.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486
Section: 33 Heading:
Remarks: IPIN/1/HKGIUIl
Page 41
PERSONALDA!A ·ulizette Number:
(pRJVACY)ORDfNANCE
ProhlMtl~n again$ttransfer VerskmDate:
of personal data to pla:c~
outside Hong Kong except
in specified circumstances
not yet in operation
(1) This section shall not apply to personal data other than personal data the collection, holding,
processing or use of which-
(a) takes place in Hong Kong; or
(b) is controlled by a data user whose principal place of business is in Hong Kong.
(2) A data user shall not transfer personal data to a place outside Hong Kong unless-
(a) the place is specified for the purposes of this section in a notice under subsection (3);
(b) the user has reasonable grounds for believing that there is in force in that place any law
which is substantially similar to, or serves the same purposes as, this Ordinance;
(c) the data subject has consented in writing to the transfer;
(d) the user has reasonable grounds for believing that, in all the circumstances of the case-
(i) the transfer is for the avoidance or mitigation of adverse action against the data
subject;
(ii) it is not practicable to obtain the consent in writing of the data subject to that transfer;
and
(iii) if it was practicable to obtain such consent, the data subject would give it;
(e) the data are exempt from data protection principle 3 by virtue of an exemption under Part
VIII; or
(t) the user has taken all reasonable precautions and exercised all due diligence to ensure that
the data will not, in that place, be collected, held, processed or used in any manner which, if
that place were Hong Kong, would be a contravention of a requirement under this
Ordinance.
(3) Where the Commissioner has reasonable grounds for believing that there is in force in a place
outside Hong Kong any law which is substantially similar to, or serves the same purposes as, this Ordinance,
he may, by notice in the Gazette, specifY that place for the purposes of this section.
(4) Where the Commissioner has reasonable grounds for believing that in a place specified in a notice
under subsection (3) there is no longer in force any law which is substantially similar to, or serves the same
purposes as, this Ordinance, he shall, either by repealing or amending that notice, cause that place to cease
to be specified for the purposes of this section.
(5) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that-
(a) for the purposes of subsection (l)(b), a data user which is a company incorporated in Hong
Kong is a data user whose principal place of business is in Hong Kong;
(b) a notice under subsection (3) is subsidiary legislation; and
( c) this section shall not operate to prejudice the generality of section 50.
(Enacted 1995) IP/NIl/HKGIUIl
Page 42
48Q
Section: 34 PcRSONALDATA
(pRIVACY)ORDfNANCE
Use-ofpetsonaldata in
direct marketing Version Date: 30!06i1997
shall-(1) A data user who-
Ca) has obtained personal data from any source (including the data subject); and
(b) uses the data for direct marketing purposes,
Ci) the first time he so uses those data after this section comes into operation, inform the data
subject that the data user is required, without charge to the data subject, to cease to so use
those data if the data subject so requests;
(ii) if the data subject so requests, cease to so use those data without charge to the data subject.
(2) In this section-
"direct marketing" means-
(a) the offering of goods, facilities or services;
(b) the advertising of the availability of goods, facilities or services; or
(c) the solicitation of donations or contributions for charitable, cultural, philanthropic,
recreational, political or other purposes,
by means of-
(i) information or goods sent to any person by mail, facsimile transmission, electronic mail, or
other similar means of communication, where the information or goods are addressed to a
specific person or specific persons by name; or
(ii) telephone calls made to specific persons.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title::
Section: 35 Heading; PERSONALI)ATA
(pRfVACY)·ORD{N,,\NCE
RepeatGl coll~ti().ns of
person~ldata i.nsame
circumstances IP/NIlIHKGlU1 1
Page 43
(1) A data user who-
(a) has complied with the provisions of data protection principle 1(3) in respect of the collection
of any personal data from the data subject ("first collection"); and
(b) on any subsequent occasion again collects personal data from the data subject ("subsequent
collection"),
is not required to comply with those provisions in respect of the subsequent collection if, but only if-
(i) to comply with those provisions in respect of that subsequent collection would be to repeat,
without any material difference, what was done to comply with that principle in respect of
the first collection; and
(ii) not more than 12 months have elapsed between the first collection and the subsequent
collection.
(2) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that subsection (1) shall not operate to prevent a
subsequent collection from becoming a first collection if, but only if, the data user concerned has complied
with the provisions of data protection principle 1(3) in respect of the subsequent collection.
(Enacted 1995) IP/NIlIHKGlU1 1
Page 44
Chapter: 486 Title:
He.ading: Gazette Number: PER-<;ONALPATA
(?.RlVACY)ORD1NA:.~CE
ins:pectiQnsQfpersonal data Version Date:
systems
PART VII
INSPECTIONS, COMPLAINTS AND INVESTIGATIONS 30/06/1997
Without prejudice to the generality of section 38, the Commissioner may carry out an inspection of
(a) any personal data system used by a data user; or
(b) any personal data system used by a data user belonging to a class of data users,
for the purposes of ascertaining information to assist the Commissioner in making recommendations
(i) to-
(A) where paragraph (a) is applicable, the relevant data user;
(B) where paragraph (b) is applicable, the class of data users to which the relevant data
user belongs; and
(ii) relating to the promotion of compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance, in particular
the data protection principles, by the relevant data user, or the class of data users to which
the relevant data user belongs, as the case may be.
(Enacted 1995) Tide:
Section: 37 Heading: PERS()NALDATA
(PRIVACY) ORDiNANCE
Complaints IJ>~/1/fIFC(J/lJ/1
J>age 45
Gaiette Number:
Version Date: 30106/1997
(1) An individual, or a relevant person on behalf of an individual, may make a complaint to the
Commissioner about an act or practice-
(a) specified in the complaint; and
(b) that-
(i) has been done or engaged in, or is being done or engaged in, as the case may be, by a
data user specified in the complaint;
(ii) relates to personal data of which the individual is or, in any case in which the data user
is relying upon an exemption under J>art VIII, may be, the data subject; and
(iii) may be a contravention of a requirement under this Ordinance (including section
28(4)).
(2) Where 2 or more individuals may each make a complaint about the same act or practice, then
any of those individuals, or any relevant person on behalf of any of those individuals, may make such a
complaint on behalf of all those individuals, and the provisions of this Ordinance (including subsection (1))
shall be construed accordingly.
(3) A complaint shall be-
(a) in writing in the Chinese or English language; or
(b) in such other form as the Commissioner may accept.
(4) It shall be the duty of the Commissioner and each prescribed officer who has been employed
under section 9(1)(a) to provide appropriate assistance to an individual, or a relevant person on behalf of an
individual, who wishes to make a complaint and requires assistance to formulate the complaint.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKG/U/1
Page 46
Chapter: 486
Section: 38 Title:
Heading: PERSONAL DA'fA
(pRIVACy)ORDrNANCE
Investigatil)n~ by
Commissioner Gazette NUl.nber:
Where the Commissioner-
then-(a) receives a complaint; or
(b) has reasonable grounds to believe that an act or practice-
(i) has been done or engaged in, or is being done or engaged in, as the case may be, by a
data user;
(ii) relates to personal data; and
(Hi) may be a contravention of a requirement under this Ordinance,
(i) where paragraph (a) is applicable, the Commissioner shall, subject to section 39, carry out
an investigation in relation to the relevant data user to ascertain whether the act or practice
specified in the complaint is a contravention of a requirement under this Ordinance;
(ii) where paragraph (b) is applicable, the Commissioner may carry out an investigation in
relation to the relevant data user to ascertain whether the act or practice referred to in that
paragraph is a contravention of a requirement under this Ordinance.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter; 486 TIde:
39 IJ>~/I/fIE(Ci/lJ/l
J>age 47
PERSON:AL DATA
(PRIVACY) ORDINANCE Gazette Nu.mher:
Restrj~~iollSUlJ Version Dat~: 30/0611997
in"~tig3ti()nsinitlatett··h)'~
c()mplaints .
(1) Notwithstanding the generality of the powers conferred on the Commissioner by this Ordinance,
the Commissioner may refuse to carry out or continue an investigation initiated by a complaint if-
(a) the complainant (or, if the complainant is a relevant person, the individual in respect of
whom the complainant is such a person) has had actual knowledge of the act or practice
specified in the complaint for more than 2 years immediately preceding the date on which
the Commissioner received the complaint, unless the Commissioner is satisfied that in all the
circumstances of the case it is proper to carry out or continue, as the case may be, the
investigation;
(b) the complaint is made anonymously;
(c) the complainant cannot be identified or traced;
(d) none of the following conditions is fulfilled in respect of the act or practice specified in the
complaint-
(i) either-
(A) the complainant (or, if the complainant is a relevant person, the individual in
respect of whom the complainant is such a person) was resident in Hong Kong;
or
(B) the relevant data user was able to control, in or from Hong Kong, the collection,
holding, processing or use of the personal data concerned,
at any time the act or practice was done or engaged in, as the case may be;
(ii) the complainant (or, ifthe complainant is a relevant person, the individual in respect of
whom the complainant is such a person) was in Hong Kong at any time the act or
practice was done or engaged in, as the case may be;
(iii) in the opinion of the Commissioner, the act or practice done or engaged in, as the case
may be, may prejudice the enforcement of any right, or the exercise of any privilege,
acquired or accrued in Hong Kong by the complainant (or, if the complainant is a
relevant person, the individual in respect of whom the complainant is such a person);
or
(e) the Commissioner is satisfied that the relevant data user has not been a data user for a
period of not less than 2 years immediately preceding the date on which the Commissioner
received the complaint.
(2) The Commissioner may refuse to carry out or continue an investigation initiated by a complaint if
he is of the opinion that, having regard to all the circumstances of the case-
(a) the complaint, or a complaint of a substantially similar nature, has previously initiated an
investigation as a result of which the Commissioner was of the opinion that there had been
no contravention of a requirement under this Ordinance;
(b) the act or practice specified in the complaint is trivial;
(c) the complaint is frivolous or vexatious or is not made in good faith; or
(d) any investigation or further investigation is for any other reason unnecessary.
(3) Where the Commissioner refuses under this section to carry out or continue an investigation
initiated by a complaint, he shall, as soon as practicable but, in any case, not later than 45 days after
receiving the complaint, by notice in writing served on the complainant accompanied by a copy of
subsection (4), inform the complainant-
(a) of the refusal; and
(b) of the reasons for the refusal.
(4) An appeal may be made to the Administrative Appeals Board-
(a) against any refusal specified in a notice under subsection (3); and
(b) by the complainant on whom the notice was served (or, if the complainant is a relevant IPINI1/HKGIU11
Page 48
person, the individual in respect of whom the complainant is such a person, or either).
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
H~ing: PERSONAL DATA
(Pltl-V'ACY)ORPINANCB IP/N/1/HKGIUIl
Page 49
G~tte.Ntirnber:
Canunis$ioneT~i!.Y tarry Version· Dme: 3()!O61l997
fUll ()r c:o~tinue ..
investiguHon initiated QY
complaiMuotwithstanding
withdrawal of complaint
Where the Commissioner is of the opinion that it is in the public interest so to do, he may carry out or
continue an investigation initiated by a complaint notwithstanding that the complainant has withdrawn the
complaint and, in any such case, the provisions of this Ordinance shall apply to the complaint and the
complainant as if the complaint had not been withdrawn.
(Enacted 1995) IP/NIlIHKGlU1 1
Page 50
Chapter: 486
41 Title:
. Hea~1:il'lg; PERSONAL-DATA.
(pRJV'ACY) ORDINANCE
Conlml~sl()nerta inform
relevant data user of
inspectionar investigatioll Gazette Number.:
Version Date: 3Q/061!997
(1) The Commissioner shall, before carrying out an inspection or, subject to subsection (2), an
investigation, by notice in writing served on the relevant data user, inform the data user of his intention to
carry out the inspection or investigation, as the case may be.
(2) The Commissioner is not required to comply with subsection (1) in the case of any investigation
in respect of which he has reasonable grounds to believe that to so comply may prejudice the purposes of
the investigation.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Ti.de:
Section: 42 Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(pRIVACY) ORDlNANCE Gazette Number:
Pt)w~ rofen try an premises Version. Date:
fa·f the purposes t)fan
inspecti(Hl· or investigation IP/N/IIHKGIUIl
Page 51
30106/1997
(1) Subject to subsections (3) and (8), the Commissioner may, for the purposes of an inspection-
(a) where the personal data system, or any part thereof, the subject of the inspection is situated
in-
(i) non-domestic premises, enter the premises at any reasonable time;
(ii) domestic premises, enter the premises with the consent of any person (other than a
minor) resident therein;
(b) carry out in the premises the inspection.
(2) Subject to subsections (3) and (8), the Commissioner may, for the purposes of an investigation
(a) enter any premises-
(i) occupied by the relevant data user; or
(ii) in which is situated the personal data system, or any part thereof, used by the relevant
data user;
(b) carry out in the premises the investigation.
(3) Subject to subsections (4) and (5), the Commissioner shall, not less than 14 days before
exercising his power under subsection (1) or (2) in respect of any premises, by notice in writing served on
the relevant data user, inform the data user-
(a) of the premises in respect of which he proposes to exercise that power; and
(b) that the power will not be so exercised before the expiration of 14 days after service of the
notice.
(4) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (5), where any domestic premises are specified
in a notice under subsection (3) in respect of which the Commissioner proposes to exercise his power under
subsection (2), then the Commissioner shall not exercise that power in respect of those premises unless and
until a person (other than a minor) resident therein consents thereto before the expiration of 14 days after
service of the notice.
(5) The Commissioner may, pursuant to a warrant· issued under subsection (6), exercise his power
under subsection (2) in respect of the premises specified in the warrant without complying with subsection
(3).
(6) A magistrate may, if satisfied by information upon oath by the Commissioner or any prescribed
officer that there are reasonable grounds for believing that the purposes of any investigation may be
substantially prejudiced if the Commissioner were required to comply with subsection (3) before exercising
his power under subsection (2) in respect of any premises, issue a warrant-
(a) in the form specified in Part 1 of Schedule 6; and
(b) in respect of those premises.
(7) A magistrate may, if satisfied by information upon oath by the Commissioner or any prescribed
officer that there are reasonable grounds for believing that the purposes of an investigation may be
substantially prejudiced if the Commissioner is prevented by the operation of subsection (4) from exercising
his power under subsection (2) in respect of any domestic premises, issue a warrant-
(a) in the form specified in Part 2 of Schedule 6; and
(b) authorizing the Commissioner to exercise that power in respect of those premises.
(8) The Commissioner shall not exercise his power under subsection (1) or (2) in respect of any
premises in such a way as to unduly disrupt any operations being carried out in the premises, whether by the
relevant data user or any other person.
(9) Where the Commissioner exercises his power under subsection (1) or (2), the relevant data user
shall, without charge, afford the Commissioner such facilities and assistance as the Commissioner may
reasonably require for the purposes of the inspection or investigation concerned.
(10) Where the Commissioner, pursuant to a warrant issued under subsection (6), exercises his power
under subsection (2) in respect of the premises specified in the warrant, he shall produce the warrant for IPIN/1/HKGIU/1
Page 52
inspection by any person found in those premises who questions his authority to exercise that power in
respect of those premises.
(11) In this section and Schedule 6-
"domestic premises" means any premises which are constructed or intended to be used for
habitation;
"non-domestic premises" means any premises other than domestic premises;
"premises" means-
(a) any building where no part of the building is separately occupied, and includes any land
appertaining to the building;
(b) in any other case, any part of a building which is separately occupied, and includes any land
appertaining to such part.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
SectiQn: 43 Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(PRrYACY).ORDINANCE
Pr()c:~ingsof
Commissioner Version Date: IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 53
30j06/l997
(1) Subject to the provisions of this Ordinance, the Commissioner may, for the purposes of any
investigation-
(a) be furnished with any information, document or thing, from such persons, and make such
inquiries, as he thinks fit; and
(b) regulate his procedure in such manner as he thinks fit.
(2) Any hearing for the purposes of an investigation shall be carried out in public unless-
(a) the Commissioner is of the opinion that, in all the circumstances of the case, the
investigation should be carried out in private; or
(b) if the investigation was initiated by a complaint, the complainant requests in writing that the
investigation be carried out in private.
(3) Counsel and solicitors shall not have any right of audience before the Commissioner at any
hearing for the purposes of an investigation, but may appear before him if he thinks fit.
(4) It shall not be necessary for the Commissioner to hold any hearing for the purposes of an
investigation and no person shall be entitled to be heard by the Commissioner.
(5) If at any time during the course of an investigation it appears to the Commissioner that there may
be sufficient grounds for him to make any report or recommendation that may criticize or adversely affect
any person he shall give to the person an opportunity to be heard.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/lIHKG/UIl
Page 54
Chapter: 486 Title: PERSONALDAfA Gazett-e N~lmool'~ 250£ 1995s~ 2
(PRfYACf)ORDlNANC£
Section: 44 Heading: Evidence Version Date: 01107/1997
Remarks:
Amendments retroactively made-see 25 of 1998 s. 2
(1) Subject to subsection (2) and section 45, the Commissioner may, for the purposes of any
investigation, summon before him any person who-
(a) in the opinion of the Commissioner, is able to give any information relevant to those
purposes;
(b) where the investigation was initiated by a complaint, is the complainant (or, if the
complainant is a relevant person, the individual in respect of whom the complainant is such
a person, or both),
and may examine any such person and require him to furnish to the Commissioner any information and to
produce any document or thing which, in the opinion of the Commissioner, is relevant to those purposes
and which may be in the possession or under the control of any such person.
then-(2) Where-
(a) an investigation has been initiated by a complaint;
(b) the complaint relates, whether in whole or in part, to personal data referred to in section
61(1 );
(c) the Commissioner has, for the purposes of that investigation, under subsection (l)(a)
summoned before him a person; and
(d) that person asserts, in response to any requirement under subsection (1) by the
Commissioner to furnish him with information or to produce a document or thing, that-
(i) to comply with that requirement would directly or indirectly disclose the identity of the
individual from whom those data were collected (whether in whole or in part); or
(ii) he is not required to comply with that requirement by virtue of any common law
privilege,
(i) notwithstanding any other provision of this Ordinance, the Commissioner shall not serve an
enforcement notice on that person in relation to that requirement;
(ii) the Commissioner may, not later than 28 days after that assertion is made known to him,
make an application to the Court of First Instance for an order directing that person to
comply with that requirement; (Amended 25 of 1998 s. 2)
(iii) the Court of First Instance may make the order if, but only if, it is satisfied, having regard to
all the circumstances (including the circumstances of the complainant), that-(Amended 25
of 1998 s. 2)
(A) if the act or practice specified in the complaint were proven to be a contravention of a
requirement under this Ordinance, the contravention would be of sufficient gravity to
warrant that person complying with the requirement referred to in paragraph Cd);
(B) that investigation would be substantially prejudiced if the requirement referred to in
paragraph (d) were not compiled with;
(C) it is in the public interest, having regard to the benefit likely to accrue to that
investigation, that the requirement referred to in paragraph (d) be complied with; and
CD) in any case to which paragraph (d)(ii) is applicable, the common law privilege asserted
does not apply; and
(iv) on the hearing of the application, the Commissioner, that person and the complainant shall
each be entitled to be heard on the application and to call, examine and cross-examine any
witness.
(3) Where-
Ca) a person has complied with a requirement referred to in subsection (2)(d) the subject of an
assertion referred to in that subsection; and IP/N/I1HKGIUIl
Page 55
(b) the result (whether in whole or in part) ofthe investigation to which that requirement relates
is that the Commissioner is of the opinion that the individual concerned referred to in
subsection (2)( d)(i) has not contravened a requirement under this Ordinance in relation to
the matter the subject ofthe complaint which initiated the investigation,
then, notwithstanding any other provision of this Ordinance, neither the Commissioner nor any prescribed
officer shall disclose the identity of that individual to the complainant.
(4) The Court of First Instance may, of its own volition or on an application made to it for the
purpose, by order reverse, vary or discharge an order made under subsection (2)(iii) or suspend the
operation of such an order. (Amended 25 of 1998 s. 2)
(5) Provision may be made by rules of court-
(a) with respect to applications to the Court of First Instance under subsection (2)(iii) or (4);
(b) generally with respect to procedure before the Court of First Instance in relation to any such
application. (Amended 25 of 1998 s. 2)
(6) Subsection (5) is without prejudice to the generality of any existing power to make rules.
(7) The Commissioner may administer an oath for the purposes of an examination under subsection
(1) if he thinks fit.
(8) It is hereby declared that-
(a) no obligation to maintain secrecy or other restriction, imposed by law, upon the disclosure of
any information, document or other thing, that is or has been in the possession or under the
control of any person referred to in subsection (1), shall apply to its disclosure for the
purposes of an investigation; and
(b) any requirement by the Commissioner that any such information, document or thing as is
referred to in paragraph (a) be disclosed or produced for the purposes of an investigation
shall be sufficient authority for its disclosure or production to the Commissioner.
(9) The Commissioner may pay the reasonable expenses of complainants (including, if the
complainant is a relevant person, the individual in respect of whom the complainant is such a person) and
witnesses incurred during the course of an investigation.
(Enacted 1995) IPIN/1/HKGIU/1
Page 56
486
Section: 45
Remarks: Title:
Heading: PERSONALOATA
(PRJVACY) OR1)fNANCE Gaz.ette Number: 25 of 1998; 34
of 1999
Protection of witnesses, etc. Version Date: 0110711997
Adaptation amendments retroactively made -see 25 of 1998 s. 2; 34 of 1999 s. 3
(1) Every person shall have the same privileges in relation to the giving of information, the answering
of questions, and the production of documents and things, for the purposes of an investigation, as witnesses
have in civil proceedings in the High Court but any rule of law which authorizes or requires the withholding
of any document or thing, or the refusal to answer any question, on the ground that the disclosure of the
document or thing or the answering of the question, as the case may be, would be injurious to the public
interest, shall not apply in respect of any investigation. (Amended 25 of 1998 s. 2)
(2) Except on the trial of any person for perjury in respect of his sworn testimony, or for an offence
under this Ordinance, no statement made or answer given by that or any other person in the course of any
investigation shall be admissible in evidence against any person, before any magistrate or in any court or at
any inquiry or in any other proceedings, and no evidence in respect of an investigation shall be given against
any person.
(3) Where the giving of any information or the answering of any question or the production of any
document or thing would involve the disclosure, without the consent of the Chief Executive, of the
deliberations of the Executive Council, the Commissioner shall not require the information or answer to be
given or, as the case may be, the document or thing to be produced. (Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKGIU/1
Page 57
Chapter: 486 Titk: PERSONAL DATA Gazette Number;
46 (PRlVACY}ORQlNANCE
Comntission~r,et~. tu
maintain secrecy VerSlon Date: 3:010611997
(1) Subject to subsections (2) and (3), the Commissioner and every prescribed officer shall maintain
secrecy in respect of all matters that come to their actual knowledge in the performance of their functions
and the exercise of their powers under this Part.
from-(2) Subsection (1) shall not operate so as to prevent the Commissioner or any prescribed officer
( a) disclosing in the course of proceedings-
(i) for an offence under this Ordinance; and
(ii) before any court or magistrate,
any matter relevant to those proceedings;
(b) reporting evidence of any crime to such authority as he considers appropriate;
(c) disclosing to a person any matter referred to in subsection (1) which, in the opinion of the
Commissioner or prescribed officer, may be ground for a complaint by that person.
(3) Subject to subsection (4), the Commissioner may disclose in any report made by him under this
Ordinance any matter that in his opinion ought to be disclosed in order to establish grounds for his findings
and recommendations other than a matter the disclosure of which in his opinion would involve the
disclosure of personal data that are exempt from data protection principle 6 by virtue of an exemption under
Part VIII.
(4) The Commissioner shall not publish a report under this Ordinance after completing an inspection
or investigation unless-
(a) a copy of the report in the form in which it is to be published has been supplied to the
relevant data user;
(b) that copy is accompanied by a notice in writing inviting the data user to advise the
Commissioner, in writing and not later than 28 days after being served with the copy,
whether-
(i) in the opinion of the data user there is any matter in the copy the disclosure of which
would involve the disclosure of personal data that are exempt from the provisions of
data protection principle 6 by virtue of an exemption under Part VIII; and
(ii) the data user objects to the disclosure of the matter; and
(c) either-
(i) the period referred to in paragraph (b) has expired without the Commissioner receiving
any such advice; or
(ii) such advice is received by the Commissioner and-
(A) the Commissioner deletes from the report the matter the subject of the advice;
or
(B) the Commissioner decides not to delete that matter from the report and-
(I) the period referred to in subsection (6) expires without the data user
making an appeal under that subsection against that decision; or
(ll) such an appeal is unsuccessful or withdrawn.
(5) Where the Commissioner makes a decision referred to in subsection (4)(c)(ii)(B), he shall serve
on the relevant data user who gave the advice concerned a notice in writing
(a) stating his decision;
(b) informing the data user that he may appeal under subsection (6) against that decision; and
(c) accompanied by a copy of this section.
(6) An appeal may be made to the Administrative Appeals Board against a decision of the
Commissioner referred to in subsection (4)(c)(ii)(B) by the relevant data user not later than 14 days after the
notice under subsection (5) stating that decision has been served on the data user.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/IIHKGIUIl
Page 58
Chapter: 486
Section: Be-ading; PERSONAL DATA
(PRJVACY)ORUtNA:N"CE
Persons. to bejnfi)rm~ of Version Date:
re~lllt of: inspediQllOr
investigation 30106/1997
(1) Where the Commissioner has completed an inspection, he shall, in such manner and at such time
as he thinks fit, inform the relevant data user of-
(a) the result of the inspection;
(b) any recommendations arising from the inspection that the Commissioner thinks fit to make
relating to the promotion of compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance, in particular
the data protection principles, by the data user;
(c) any report arising from the inspection that he proposes to publish under section 48; and
(d) such other comments arising from the inspection as he thinks fit to make.
(2) Where the Commissioner has completed an investigation, he shall, in such manner and at such
time as he thinks fit, inform the relevant data user of-
(a) the result of the investigation;
(b) any recommendations arising from the investigation that the Commissioner thinks fit to
make relating to the promotion of compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance, in
particular the data protection principles, by the· data user;
( c) any report arising from the investigation that he proposes to publish under section 48;
(d) whether or not he proposes to serve an enforcement notice on the data user in consequence
of the investigation; and
(e) such other comments arising from the investigation as he thinks fit to make.
(3) Where the Commissioner has completed an investigation initiated by a complaint, he shall, in
such manner and at such time as he thinks fit, inform the complainant of
(a) the result of the investigation;
(b) any recommendations made to the relevant data user under subsection (2)(b);
(c) any report arising from the investigation that he proposes to publish under section 48;
(d) any comments made by or on behalf of the relevant data user on any such
recommendations or report;
( e) whether or not he has served, or proposes to serve, an enforcement notice on the relevant
data user in consequence of the investigation;
(t) if the Commissioner has not so served, and does not propose to so serve, such enforcement
notice, his right to obj ect thereto under subsection (4); and
(g) such other comments arising from the investigation as he thinks fit to make.
(4) The complainant (or, if the complainant is a relevant person, the individual in respect of whom
the complainant is such a person, or either) may appeal to the Administrative Appeals Board against a
decision of the Commissioner-
(a) to the effect that he has not served, and does not propose to serve, an enforcement notice
on the relevant data user in consequence of the investigation concerned; and
(b) of which the complainant was informed in the notice concerned under subsection (3) served
on him.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Tirle~
Section: 48 Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(?RJVACr}ORD1NANCE
Reports by Commissioner Gamtw Number:
Version Date: IP/N/lIHKGIU/1
Page 59
30106/1997
(1) Subject to subsection (3), the Commissioner may, after completing an inspection where section
36(b) is applicable, publish a report-
(a) setting out any recommendations arising from the inspection that the Commissioner thinks fit
to make relating to the promotion of compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance, in
particular the data protection principles, by the class of data users to which the relevant data
user belongs; and
(b) in such manner as he thinks fit.
(2) Subject to subsection (3), the Commissioner may, after completing an investigation and ifhe is of
the opinion that it is in the public interest to do so, publish a report-
(a) setting out-
(i) the result of the investigation;
(ii) any recommendations arising from the investigation that the Commissioner thinks fit to
make relating to the promotion of compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance, in
particular the data protection principles, by the class of data users to which the
relevant data user belongs; and
(iii) such other comments arising from the investigation as he thinks fit to make; and
(b) in such manner as he thinks fit.
(3) Subject to subsection (4), a report published under subsection (1) or (2) shall be so framed as to
the prevent the identity of any individual being ascertained from it.
(4) Subsection (3) shall not apply to any individual who is-
(a) the Commissioner or a prescribed officer;
(b) the relevant data user.
(Enacted 1995) IPIN/1/HKGIUIl
Page 60
Chapter: 486 Title:
Section: 49 Heading: PERSONAL-DATA
(PRlV ACY)ORDINA..NCE
Case-sinwbicb sections 47 Versi<mDate;
and 48 shall notappty 3010611991
Where-
then-(a) the Commissioner has completed an investigation (and whether or not the investigation was
initiated by a complaint);
(b) the result ofthe investigation is that the act or practice the subject of the investigation is not
a contravention of a requirement under this Ordinance because of an exemption under Part
VIII; and
(c) the interest protected by that exemption would be likely to be prejudiced if sections 47 and
48 applied in relation to the investigation,
(i) those sections shall not apply in relation to the investigation; and
(ii) the Commissioner shall, in such manner and at such time as he thinks fit-
(A) inform the relevant data user of the result of the investigation and such other
comments arising from the investigation as he thinks fit;
(B) ifthe investigation was initiated by a complaint, inform the complainant that the result
of the investigation is that he is satisfied that the act or practice the subject of the
investigation is not a contravention of a requirement under this Ordinance (or words to
the like effect).
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
Section: SO Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(PRIVACY)ORDfNANCE
Enforcement notices IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 61
Gazette Number:
Version Date: 30/0611997
(1) Where, following the completion of an investigation, the Commissioner is of the opinion that the
relevant data user-
(a) is contravening a requirement under this Ordinance; or
(b) has contravened such a requirement in circumstances that make it likely that the
contravention will continue or be repeated,
then the Commissioner may serve on the relevant data user a notice in writing
(i) stating that he is of that opinion;
(ii) specifYing the requirement as to which he is of that opinion and the reasons why he is of
that opinion;
(iii) directing the data user to take such steps as are specified in the notice to remedy the
contravention or, as the case may be, the matters occassioning it within such period (ending
not earlier than the period specified in subsection (7) within which an appeal against the
notice may be made) as is specified in the notice; and
(iv) accompanied by a copy of this section.
(2) In deciding whether to serve an enforcement notice the Commissioner shall consider whether the
contravention or matter to which the notice relates has caused or is likely to cause damage or distress to any
individual who is the data subject of any personal data to which the contravention or matter, as the case
may be, relates.
(3) The steps specified in an enforcement notice to remedy any contravention or matter to which the
notice relates may be framed-
(a) to any extent by reference to any approved code of practice;
(b) so as to afford the relevant data user a choice between different ways of remedying the
contravention or matter, as the case may be.
(4) Subject to subsection (5), the period specified in an enforcement notice for taking the steps
specified in it shall not expire before the end of the period specified in subsection (7) within which an appeal
against the notice may be made and, if such an appeal is made, those steps need not be taken pending the
determination or withdrawal of the appeal.
(5) If the Commissioner is of the opinion that by reason of special circumstances the steps specified
in an enforcement notice should be taken as a matter of urgency-
(a) he may include a statement to that effect in the notice together with the reasons why he is of
that opinion;
(b) where such a statement is so included, subsection (4) shall not apply but the notice shall not
require those steps to be taken before the end of the period of 7 days beginning with the
date on which the notice was served.
(6) The Commissioner may cancel an enforcement notice by notice in writing served on the relevant
data user.
(7) An appeal may be made to the Administrative Appeals Board against an enforcement notice by
the relevant data user not later than 14 days after the notice was served.
(8) Where the Commissioner-
( a) forms an opinion referred to in subsection (1) in respect of the relevant data user at any time
before the completion of an investigation; and
Cb) is also of the opinion that, by reason of special circumstances, an enforcement notice should
be served on the relevant data user as a matter of urgency,
he may so serve such notice notwithstanding that the investigation has not been completed and, in any such
case-
(i) the Commissioner shall, without prejudice to any other matters to be included in such
notice, specifY in the notice the reasons as to why he is of the opinion referred to in
paragraph (b); and
(ii) the other provisions of this Ordinance (including this section) shall be construed accordingly. IP/N/IIHKG/u/l
page6~2 ____________________________________________________ ___ (Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
Section: 51 Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(PRIVACY) ORDINANCE
Interpretation
PART VIII
EXEMPTIONS IP/NI1 IHKG/U/1
Page 63
Gazette Number:
Version Date: 30106/1997
Where any personal data are exempt from any provision of this Ordinance by virtue of this Part, then,
in respect of those data and to the extent of that exemption, that provision neither confers any right nor
imposes any requirement on any person, and the other provisions of this Ordinance which relate (whether
directly or indirectly) to that provision shall be construed accordingly.
(Enacted 1995) IPIN/1/HKG/U/1
Page 64
Cbapter: 486
Section: 52 Title: PERSONAL DA.TA
(PRIVACY) ORl)fNANCE
Heading: Domestic purposes
Personal data held by an individual and-Gaz;(!o~Numbel;:
Version Date: 30/0611997
(a) concerned only with the management of his personal, family or household affairs; or
(b) so held only for recreational purposes,
are exempt from the provisions of the data protection principles, Parts IV and V and sections 36 and 38(b).
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: Titk:
Section: 53 Heading: P6RSON':t\L.DATA
(PRIVACY) ORDINAl'ZCE
Employment -staff planning Version Date: IPINIl/HKGIUIl
Page 65
30106/1997
Personal data which consist of information relevant to any staff planning proposal to-
(a) fill any series of positions of employment which are presently, or may become, unfilled; or
(b) cease any group of individuals' employment,
are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 6 and section 18(1)(b).
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKGIU/1
Page 66
Chapter: 486 Title: PERSONAL DATA G-.azette Number:
(pRlV AC'OORDINANCE
Section: 54 Heading: Em:pl~ymcnt -·tra'nsitioRal VerskmD<~te:
provisitHls
Cl) Personal data-
(a) held by a data user-
(i) immediately before the appointed day;
CH) who is the employer of the data subject; and
(Hi) relating to the employment of the subject; and 30;06/1991
(b) provided by an individual on the implicit or explicit condition that the subject would not have
access to the data,
are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 6 and section 18(1 )(b) until the expiration of 7
years immediately following the enactment of this Ordinance.
(2) Personal data-
(a) to which subsection (1)(a) applies; or
Cb) held by a data user-
(i) but not so held at any time before the appointed day;
(H) who is the employer of the data subject; and
(iii) relating to the employment of the subject,
are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 6 and section 18( 1 )(b) until 1 July 1996.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Titie:
Section: 55 Heading: PERSONALDATA
(PRlVACY}ORDlNANCE
Relevant process IP/N/l/HKG/U/l
Page 67
Ga7~tte Number:
Version Date: 30106/1997
(1) Personal data the subject of a relevant process are exempt from the provisions of data protection
principle 6 and section 18(1 )(b) until the completion of that process.
(2) In this section-
"completion", in relation to a relevant process, means the making of the determination concerned
referred to in paragraph (a) of the definition of "relevant process";
"relevant process"-
(a) subject to paragraph (b), means any process whereby personal data are considered by one
or more persons for the purpose of determining, or enabling there to be determined-
(i) the suitability, eligibility or qualifications ofthe data subject for
(A) employment or appointment to office;
(B) promotion in employment or office or continuance in employment or office;
(C) removal from employment or office; or
(D) the awarding of contracts, awards (including academic and professional
qualifications), scholarships, honours or other benefits;
(ii) whether any contract, award (including academic and professional qualifications),
scholarship, honour or benefit relating to the data subject should be continued,
modified or cancelled; or
(iii) whether any disciplinary action should be taken against the data subject for a breach
of the terms of his employment or appointment to office;
Cb) does not include any such process where no appeal, whether under an Ordinance or
otherwise, may be made against any such determination.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/lIHKGIU/1
Page 68
Chapter: 486 Title: PERSONA-LDATA Gaz.ette Number:
(PRJVACY) ORI)fNANCE
Section: 56 Heading: Personal references Version Date: 3010611997
Personal data held by a data user which consist of a personal reference-
(a) given by an individual other than in the ordinary course of his occupation; and
(b) relevant to another individual's suitability or otherwise to fill any position of employment or
office which is presently, or may become, unfilled,
are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 6 and section 18(1)(b)-
(i) in any case, unless the individual referred to in paragraph (a) has informed the data user in
writing that he has no objection to the reference being seen by the individual referred to in
paragraph (b) (or words to the like effect); or
(ii) in the case of a reference given on or after the day on which this section comes into
operation, until the individual referred to in paragraph (b) has been informed in writing that
he has been accepted or rejected to fill that position or office (or words to the like effect),
whichever first occurs.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Tide: PERSON",,\.LDATA
waWACY) ORDtNANCB IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 69
Gal..ette Num~r; LN, 36201'
1997;34 of
1999
Section: 51 Heading: Se(!urity.etc.in r~pect of Version Date: Otf07!l997
Hong Kong
Remarks:
Adaptation amendments retroactively made -see 34 of 1999 s. 3
(1) Personal data held by or on behalf of the Government for the purposes of safeguarding security,
defence or international relations in respect of Hong Kong are exempt from the provisions of data protection
principle 6 and section 18(l)(b) where the application of those provisions to the data would be likely to
prejudice any of the matters referred to in this subsection.
(2) Personal data are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 3 in any case in which
(a) the use of the data is for any of the purposes referred to in subsection (1) (and whether or
not the data are held for any of those purposes); and
(b) the application of those provisions in relation to such use would be likely to prejudice any of
the matters referred to in that subsection,
and in any proceedings against any person for a contravention of any of those provisions it shall be a
defence to show that he had reasonable grounds for believing that failure to so use the data would have been
likely to prejudice any of those matters.
(3) Any question whether an exemption under subsection (1) is or at any time was required in
respect of any personal data may be determined by the Chief Executive or Chief Secretary for
Administration; and a certificate signed by the Chief Executive or Chief Secretary for Administration
certifYing that the exemption is or at any time was so required shall be evidence of that fact. (Amended
L.N. 362 of 1997; 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(4) For the purposes of subsection (2), a certificate signed by the Chief Executive or Chief Secretary
for Administration certifYing that personal data are or have been used for any purpose referred to in
subsection (1) shall be evidence of that fact. (Amended L.N. 362 of 1997; 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(5) The Chief Executive or Chief Secretary for Administration may, in a certificate referred to in
subsection (3) or (4), in respect of the personal data to which the certificate relates and for the reasons
specified in that certificate, direct the Commissioner not to carry out an inspection or investigation and, in
any such case, the Commissioner shall comply with the direction. (Amended L.N. 362 of 1997; 34 of 1999
s. 3)
(6) A document purporting to be a certificate referred to in subsection (3) or (4) shall be received in
evidence and, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, shall be deemed to be such a certificate.
(7) In this section-
"international relations" includes relations with any international organization;
"security" includes the prevention or preclusion of persons (including persons detained in
accordance with the provisions of the Immigration Ordinance (Cap 115» entering and remaining in
Hong Kong who do not have the right to enter and remain in Hong Kong.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/lIHKG/U/I
Page 70
Chapter: 486 Tit!:e: PERSONAL DATA Ga;m1t~Number; LN. 70·of
(PRJVACy)·ORDINANCE 1999
Section: 58 Heading: Crime, etc. Version Date: 03/08/1999
(1) Personal data held for the purposes of
(a) the prevention or detection of crime;
(b) the apprehension, prosecution or detention of offenders;
(c) the assessment or collection of any tax or duty;
(d) the prevention, preclusion or remedying (including punishment) of unlawful or seriously
improper conduct, or dishonesty or malpractice, by persons;
(e) the prevention or preclusion of significant financial loss arising from-
(i) any imprudent business practices or activities of persons; or
(ii) unlawful or seriously improper conduct, or dishonesty or malpractice, by persons;
(f) ascertaining whether the character or activities of the data subject are likely to have a
significantly adverse impact on any thing-
(i) to which the discharge of statutory functions by the data user relates; or
(H) which relates to the discharge of functions to which this paragraph applies by virtue of
subsection (3); or
(g) discharging functions to which this paragraph applies by virtue of subsection (3),
are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 6 and section 18(1)(b) where the application of
those provisions to the data would be likely to-
(i) prejudice any of the matters referred to in this subsection; or
(ii) directly or indirectly identify the person who is the source of the data.
(2) Personal data are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 3 in any case in which
(a) the use of the data is for any of the purposes referred to in subsection (1) (and whether or
not the data are held for any of those purposes); and
(b) the application of those provisions in relation to such use would be likely to prejudice any of
the matters referred to in that subsection,
and in any proceedings against any person for a contravention of any of those provisions it shall be a
defence to show that he had reasonable grounds for believing that failure to so use the data would have been
likely to prejudice any of those matters.
(3) Paragraphs (f)(ii) and (g) of subsection (1) apply to any functions of a financial regulator
(a) for protecting members ofthe public against financial loss arising from-
(i) dishonesty, incompetence, malpractice or seriously improper conduct by persons-
(A) concerned in the provision of banking, insurance, investment or other financial
services;
(B) concerned in the management of companies;
(BA) concerned in the administration of provident fund schemes registered under the
Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Ordinance (Cap 485); (Added 4 of 1998 s.
14)
(C) concerned in the management of occupational retirement schemes within the
meaning of the Occupational Retirement Schemes Ordinance (Cap 426); or
(D) who are shareholders in companies; or
(ii) the conduct of discharged or undischarged bankrupts;
(b) for maintaining or promoting the general stability or effective working of any of the systems
which provide any of the services referred to in paragraph (a)(i)(A); or
(c) specified for the purposes of this subsection in a notice under subsection (4).
(4) For the purposes of subsection (3), the Chief Executive may, by notice in the Gazette, specify a
function of a financial regulator. (Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3)
(5) It is hereby declared that-
(a) subsection (3) shall not operate to prejudice the generality of the operation of paragraphs
(a), (b), (c), (d) and (f)(i) of subsection (1) in relation to a financial regulator;
(b) a notice under subsection (4) is subsidiary legislation. IP/N/1IHKG/U/1
Page 71
(Enacted 1995) IP/NIl/HKGIUIl
Page 72
486
Section: 59 title:
Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(PRlVACY)ORDINAi~CE
Health Version Date: 30/0611997
Personal data relating to the physical or mental health of the data subject are exempt from the
provisions of either or both of-
(a) data protection principle 6 and section 18(1)(b);
(b) data protection principle 3,
in any case in which the application of those provisions to the data would be likely to cause serious harm to
the physical or mental health of-
(i) the data subject; or
(ii) any other individual.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter. 486 Title:
Section: 60 Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(pRWACY)·ORPINANCE
Legal professional privilege Version Date: IP/N/lIHKG/U!1
Page 73
30106/1997
Personal data are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 6 and section 18( l)(b) if the
data consist of information in respect of which a claim to legal professional privilege could be maintained in
law.
(Enacted 1995) IP /N/lIHKGIU 11
Page 74
Chapter: 486
Section: 61 Thie:
Heading: PERSQNACDATA
(PRfVACYJ.ORDiNANCE
News OazetteNumber:
Version Date: 30106/1997
(1) Personal data held by a data user-
(a) whose business, or part of whose business, consists of a news activity; and
(b) solely for the purpose of that activity (or any directly related activity),
are exempt from the provisions of-
(i) data protection principle 6 and sections 18(1)(b) and 38(i) unless and until the data are
published or broadcast (wherever and by whatever means);
(ii) sections 36 and 38(b).
(2) Personal data are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 3 in any case in which
( a) the use of the data consists of disclosing the data to a data user referred to in subsection (1);
and
(b) such disclosure is made by a person who has reasonable grounds to believe (and reasonably
believes) that the publishing or broadcasting (wherever and by whatever means) of the data
(and whether or not they are published or broadcast) is in the public interest.
(3) In this section-
"news activity" means any journalistic activity and includes-
(a) the-
(i) gathering of news;
(ii) preparation or compiling of articles or programmes concerning news; or
(iii) observations on news or current affairs,
for the purpose of dissemination to the public; or
(b) the dissemination to the public of-
(i) any article or programme of or concerning news; or
(ii) observations on news or current affairs.
(Enacted 1995) Chapte:t! 486 Thle:
Section: 62 Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(pRlVAC\() ORDINANCE
Statistics and research Version Date: IPIN/1/HKGIU/1
Page 75
30106/1997
Personal data are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 3 where
(a) the data are to be used for preparing statistics or carrying out research;
(b) the data are not to be used for any other purpose; and
(c) the resulting statistics or results of the research are not made available in a form which
identifies the data subjects or any of them.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKGIU/1
Page 76
Chapter: 486 TIde: PERSONAL DAtA
(PRlVACY) ORDlNA'iCE
£xemptinnfrom ~dion
18(1)(a) Version Date: 30/06/1997
Where a data access request relates to personal data which are or, if the data existed, would be exempt
from section 18( 1 )(b) by virtue of section 57 or 58, then the data are also exempt from section 18(1)( a) if
the interest protected by that exemption would be likely to be prejudiced by the disclosure of the existence
or non-existence of those data.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
Section: 64 Heading: PERSONAL DATA··
(pRIVACY) ORDINA'N'CE
Offences
PART IX Gazette Number:
Version Date:
OFFENCES AND COMPENSATION IP/N/1/HKG/UIl
Page 77
30/0611997
(1) A data user who, in any-
(a) data user return submitted under section 14(4) to the Commissioner;
(b) notice under section 14(8) served on the Commissioner; or
(c) notice under section 15(3) or (4) submitted to or served on the Commissioner,
knowingly or recklessly supplies any information-
(i) which is false or misleading in a material particular; and
(ii) in purported compliance with that section,
commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine at level 3 and to imprisonment for 6 months.
(2) A person who, in any data access request or data correction request, supplies any information
(a) which is false or misleading in a material particular; and
(b) which is so supplied for the purpose of having the data user concerned comply with the
request,
commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine at level 3 and to imprisonment for 6 months.
(3) A person who, in any notice under section 15(6) served on the Commissioner, supplies any
information-
(a) which is false or misleading in a material particular; and
(b) which is so supplied for the purpose of having the Commissioner comply with the request to
which the notice relates,
commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine at level 3 and to imprisonment for 6 months.
(4) A data user who, in any matching procedure request submitted to the Commissioner, supplies
any information-
(a) which is false or misleading in a material particular; and
(b) which is so supplied for the purpose of having the Commissioner consent to the matching
procedure to which the request relates,
commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine at level 3 and to imprisonment for 6 months.
(5) A data user (induding a data user first-mentioned in section 32(2)) who contravenes any
condition specified in a notice under section 30(2) or 32(l)(b)(i) commits an offence and is liable on
conviction to a fine at level 3.
(6) Any person who contravenes section 44(3) or 46(1) commits an offence and is liable on
conviction to a fine at level 3 and to imprisonment for 6 months.
(7) Subject to subsection (8), any relevant data user who contravenes an enforcement notice served
on the data user commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine at level 5 and to imprisonment for
2 years and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a daily penalty of $1000.
(8) It shall be a defence for a relevant data user charged with an offence under subsection (7) to
show that the data user exercised all due diligence to comply with the enforcement notice concerned.
(9) Any person who-
(a) without lawful excuse, obstructs, hinders or resists the Commissioner or any other person in
the performance of his functions or the exercise of his powers under Part VII;
(b) without lawful excuse, fails to comply with any lawful requirement of the Commissioner or
any other person under that Part; or
(c) makes a statement which he knows to be false or does not believe to be true, or otherwise
knowingly misleads the Commissioner or any other person in the performance of his
functions or the exercise of his powers under that Part,
commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine at level 3 and to imprisonment for 6 months.
(10) A data user who, without reasonable excuse, contravenes any requirement under this Ordinance IP/N/lIHKGIUIl
Page 78
(other than a contravention of a data protection principle) for which no other penalty is specified in this
section commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine at level 3.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486
Section: 65 Heading: PERSONALDATA
(PRlVACY)ORDINk~eE
Liability of employers ~nd Version Date:
principals IJ>~/l/lIF(Ci/lJ/l
J>age 79
30/0611991
(1) Any act done or practice engaged in by a person in the course of his employment shall be treated
for the purposes of this Ordinance as done or engaged in by his employer as well as by him, whether or not
it was done or engaged in with the employer's knowledge or approval.
(2) Any act done or practice engaged in by a person as agent for another person with the authority
(whether express or implied, and whether precedent or subsequent) of that other person shall be treated for
the purposes of this Ordinance as done or engaged in by that other person as well as by him.
(3) In proceedings brought under this Ordinance against any person in respect of an act or practice
alleged to have been done or engaged in, as the case may be, by an employee of his it shall be a defence for
that person to prove that he took such steps as were practicable to prevent the employee from doing that act
or engaging in that practice, or from doing or engaging in, in the course of his employment, acts or practices,
as the case may be, of that description.
(4) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that this section shall not apply for the purposes
of any criminal proceedings.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKGIUIl
Page 80
Chapter: 4&6 Thle: PERSONAL DATA G-~tte Number:
(PRWAC'{)ORDINANCE
Section: 66 Heading: Compensation Version Date: 30/0611997
(1) Subject to subsection (4), an individual who suffers damage by reason of a contravention
(a) of a requirement under this Ordinance;
(b) by a data user; and
(c) which relates, whether in whole or in part, to personal data of which that individual is the
data subject,
shall be entitled to compensation from that data user for that damage.
(2) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that damage referred to in subsection (1) may
be or include injuty to feelings.
(3) In any proceedings brought against any person by virtue of this section it shall be a defence to
show that-
(a) he had taken such care as in all the circumstances was reasonably required to avoid the
contravention concerned; or
(b) in any case where the contravention concerned occurred because the personal data
concerned were inaccurate, the data accurately record data received or obtained by the data
user concerned from the data subject or a third party.
(4) Where an individual suffers damage referred to in subsection (1) by reason of a contravention
referred to in that subsection which occurred because the personal data concerned were inaccurate, then no
compensation shall be payable under that subsection in respect of so much of that damage that has occurred
at any time before the expiration of 1 year immediately following the day on which this section commences.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
Section: 6·' Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(PRIVACY)ORDINk~CE
Power of Commj$sinner to V~rsiQnDate:
specify forms
PART X
MISCELLANEOlJS IJ>~/I/fI}((J/lJ/l
J>age 81
30/O6l i 9;}7
(1) Subject to subsection (2), the Commissioner may specify the form of any document required
under this Ordinance to be in the specified form and the form of such other documents required for the
purposes of this Ordinance as he thinks fit.
(2) The Commissioner's power under subsection (1) shall be subject to any express requirement
under this Ordinance for a form, whether specified or otherwise, to comply with that requirement, but that
requirement shall not restrict the exercise of that power in respect of that form to the extent that, in the
opinion of the Commissioner, his exercise of that power in respect of that form does not contravene that
requirement.
(3) The Commissioner's power under subsection (1) may be exercised in such a way as to-
(a) include in the specified form of any document referred to in that subsection a statutory
declaration-
(i) to be made by the person completing the form; and
(ii) as to whether the particulars contained in the form are true and correct to the best of
that person's knowledge and belief;
(b) specify 2 or more forms of any document referred to in that subsection, whether as
alternatives, or to provide for particular circumstances or particular cases, as the
Commissioner thinks fit.
( 4) A form specified under this section shall be-
(a) completed in accordance with such directions and instructions as are specified in the form;
Cb) accompanied by such documents as are specified in the form; and
(c) if the completed form is required to be provided to-
(i) the Commissioner;
(ii) another person on behalf of the Commissioner; or
(iii) any other person,
so provided in the manner, if any, specified in the form.
(Enacted 1995) IPIN/1/HKGIU/1
Page 82
Title:
Section: 68 Heading: PERSONAL DATAGmtte Number:
tpRtVACY)ORDfNANCE
Service of notices Version Date: 30/0611997
A notice (howsoever described) which is required to be served under this Ordinance, or which may be
served under this Ordinance, on a person (howsoever described) shall, in the absence of evidence to the
contrary, be deemed to be so served if-
(a) in the case of an individual, it is-
(i) delivered to him;
(ii) left at his last known address for service, or at his last known place of residence or
business, in Hong Kong;
(iii) sent by post to him at his last known address for service, or at his last known postal
address, in Hong Kong; or
(iv) sent by telex, facsimile transmission or other similar method to him at his last known
address for service, or at his last known postal address, or at his last known place of
residence or business, in Hong Kong;
(b) in the case of a company, it is-
(i) given to or served on an officer of the company;
(ii) left at the company's last known address for service, or at its last known place of
business, in Hong Kong;
(iii) sent by post to the company at its last known address for service, or at its last known
postal address, in Hong Kong; or
(iv) sent by telex, facsimile transmission or other similar method to the company at its last
known address for service, or at its last known postal address, or at its last known
place of business, in Hong Kong;
(c) in the case of a partnership, it is-
(i) delivered, left or sent in accordance with paragraph (a) in respect of any partner who
is an individual; or
(ii) given, served, left or sent in accordance with paragraph (b) in respect of any partner
which is a company;
(d) in the case of a person ("attorney") holding a power of attorney under which the attorney is
authorized to accept service in respect of another person, it is-
(i) delivered, left or sent in accordance with paragraph (a) where the attorney is an
individual;
(ii) given, served, left or sent in accordance with paragraph (b) where the attorney is a
company;
(iii) delivered, left or sent in accordance with paragraph (a) in respect of any partner who
is an individual where the attorney is a partnership; or
(iv) given, served, left or sent in accordance with paragraph (b) in respect of any partner
which is a company where the attorney is a partnership.
(Enacted 1995) Cha:ptef~ 486 Title:
Section: 69 Heading: PERSONAL-DATA Gazette Number:
(PRfVA<-,,\') ORDINANCE
Regulations -fees Version Date: IP/N/lIHKGIU/1
Page 83
30/0611997
(1) The Commissioner may make regulations to prescribe the fees to be paid in respect of any
matter, service or facility in respect of which a prescribed fee is payable to the Commissioner under this
Ordinance.
(2) The amount of any fee prescribed in regulations made under subsection (1) shall not be limited
by reference to the amount of administrative or other costs incurred or likely to be incurred in relation to
providing the matter, service or facility to which such fee relates, and different fees may be so prescribed
for the same matter, service or facility in order to provide for particular circumstances or particular cases
specified in the regulations.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/lIHKG/U/1
Page 84
486 Title:
Section: 70 Heading: PBRSONALDATA
(PR1VACY) ORD1NANCE
Regulations -general Version Date: 30106/1997
(1) The Secretary for Home Affairs may make regulations for all or any of the following matters-
(a) the particulars to be entered in the log book of a data user, including particulars referred to in
section 27(2)(a), (b) and
(c);
(b) prescribing anything that is required or permitted to be prescribed under this Ordinance.
(2) Any regulations made under this section may-
(a) empower the Commissioner to grant exemptions from the regulations, either generally or in
a particular case;
(b) make different provisions for different circumstances and provide for a particular case or
class of case;
(c) be made so as to apply only in such circumstances as are prescribed by the regulations.
(3) Any regulations made under this section may prescribe offences in respect of contraventions of
the regulations, and may provide for the imposition in respect of any such offence of a fine not exceeding
level 3 and of imprisonment for a period not exceeding 2 years and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a
daily penalty not exceeding $1000.
(Enacted 1995) 486 Title:
7.1 He.ading:
Remarks: IJ>~/1/fIF(Ci!lJ/1
J>age 85
PERSONAL DATA
(PRIVACY) ORDINANCE Gazette Nu.'nber:34of 1999
Amendment i)fSehednl~sZ, VerttionDate:
4and6 01/07/1997
Adaptation amendments retroactively made -see 34 of 1999 s. 3
The Chief Executive in Council may, by notice in the Ciazette, amend Schedule 2, 4 or 6.
(Enacted 1995. Amended 34 of 1999 s. 3) IP/N/1/HKGIUIl
Page 86
Chapter: 486
Section: 72
(Omitted as spent) Tide;
Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(PRIVACY) ORDlNANCE
(Omitted as spent) Gazette Number:
Version Date: 30106/1997
(Enacted 1995) 486 Title:
Section: 73 Heading:
(Omitted as spent) PERSQNALDATA
WRlVACY)ORDINA<~CE
(Omitted as spent) Gazette Number:
Version Date: IP/N/IIHKGIUIl
Page 87
30106/1997
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKGIUIl
Page 88
486 Title::
ScheJule~ Heading: PERSONALDA T.A
(PRIVACY) ORDJNA};JCE
DATA PROn;CTlON
PRINCIPLES Version Date: 30iQ6fl997
[sections 2(1) & (6)]
1. Principle I-purpose and manner of
collection of personal data
(1) Personal data shall not be collected unless-
(a) the data are collected for a lawful purpose directly related to a function or activity of the
data user who is to use the data;
(b) subject to paragraph (c), the collection of the data is necessary for or directly related to that
purpose; and
(c) the data are adequate but not excessive in relation to that purpose.
(2) Personal data shall be collected by means which are-
(a) lawful; and
(b) fair in the circumstances of the case.
(3) Where the person from whom personal data are or are to be collected is the data subject, all
practicable steps shall be taken to ensure that-
(a) he is explicitly or implicitly informed, on or before collecting the data, of-
(i) whether it is obligatory or voluntary for him to supply the data; and
(ii) where it is obligatory for him to supply the data, the consequences for him if he fails
to supply the data; and
(b) he is explicitly informed-
(i) on or before collecting the data, of-
(A) the purpose (in general or specific terms) for which the data are to be used; and
(B) the classes of persons to whom the data may be transferred; and
(ii) on or before first use of the data for the purpose for which they were collected, of
(A) his rights to request access to and to request the correction of the data; and
(B) the name and address of the individual to whom any such request may be made,
unless to comply with the provisions of this subsection would be likely to prejudice the purpose for which
the data were collected and that purpose is specified in Part VIII of this Ordinance as a purpose in relation
to which personal data are exempt from the provisions of data protection principle 6.
2. Principle 2-accuracy and duration of retention of personal data
(1) All practicable steps shall be taken to ensure that-
(a) personal data are accurate having regard to the purpose (including any directly related
purpose) for which the personal data are or are to be used;
(b) where there are reasonable grounds for believing that personal data are inaccurate having
regard to the purpose (including any directly related purpose) for which the data are or are
to be used-
(i) the data are not used for that purpose unless and until those grounds cease to be
applicable to the data, whether by the rectification of the data or otherwise; or
(ii) the data are erased;
(c) where it is practicable in all the circumstances of the case to know that-
(i) personal data disclosed on or after the appointed day to a third party are materially
inaccurate having regard to the purpose (including any directly related purpose) for
which the data are or are to be used by the third party; and IPIN/lIHKGIUIl
Page 89
(ii) that data were inaccurate at the time of such disclosure, that the third party
(A) is informed that the data are inaccurate; and
(B) is provided with such particulars as will enable the third party to rectifY the data
having regard to that purpose.
(2) Personal data shall not be kept longer than is necessary for the fulfillment of the purpose
(including any directly related purpose) for which the data are or are to be used.
3. Principle 3-use of personal data
Personal data shall not, without the prescribed consent of the data subject, be used for any purpose
other than-
(a) the purpose for which the data were to be used at the time of the collection of the data; or
(b) a purpose directly related to the purpose referred to in paragraph (a).
4. Principle 4-security of personal data
All practicable steps shall be taken to ensure that personal data (including data in a form in which
access to or processing of the data is not practicable) held by a data user are protected against unauthorized
or accidental access, processing, erasure or other use having particular
regard to-
( a) the kind of data and the harm that could result if any of those things should occur;
(b) the physical location where the data are stored;
(c) any security measures incorporated (whether by automated means or otherwise) into any
equipment in which the data are stored;
(d) any measures taken for ensuring the integrity, prudence and competence of persons having
access to the data; and
(e) any measures taken for ensuring the secure transmission of the data.
5. Principle 5-information to be generally available
All practicable steps shall be taken to ensure that a person can-
(a) ascertain a data user's policies and practices in relation to personal data;
(b) be informed of the kind of personal data held by a data user;
(c) be informed of the main purposes for which personal data held by a data user are or are to
be used.
6. Principle 6-access to personal data
A data subject shall be entitled to-
(a) ascertain whether a data user holds personal data of which he is the data subject;
(b) request access to personal data-
(i) within a reasonable time;
(ii) at a fee, if any, that is not excessive;
(iii) in a reasonable manner; and
(iv) in a form that is intelligible;
(c) be given reasons if a request referred to in paragraph (b) is refused;
(d) object to a refusal referred to in paragraph (c);
(e) request the correction of personal data;
(t) be given reasons if a request referred to in paragraph (e) is refused; and
(g) object to a refusal referred to in paragraph (t).
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1IHKGIUI 1
Page 90
c:napter: 486 Title: PERSONAL DA'VA
(pRlVACY) ORDINANCE Gili"~OO! Non1;ber; L.N. 362 of'
1997
Scheduk
1. Resources of Commissioner FlNANCES~tTC. Of
COMMISSIONER
(1) The resources of the Commissioner shall consist of
(a) all money-Version Date; 01107!1997
[sections 5(7),
1O(2)(c) & 71]
(i) paid by the Government to the Commissioner and appropriated for that purpose by
the Legislative Council; and
(ii) otherwise provided to the Commissioner by the Government; and
(b) all other money and property, including gifts, donations, fees, rent, interest and
accumulations of income received by the Commissioner.
(2) The Secretary for the Treasury may give directions in writing of a general or specific character to
the Commissioner in relation to the amount of money which may be expended by the Commissioner in any
financial year and the Commissioner shall comply with those directions.
(3) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that any remuneration or other benefit payable
to, and any expenses of-
(a) the Commissioner; or
(b) any person employed or engaged under section 9(1) of this Ordinance,
shall be paid out of the resources of the Commissioner.
2. Borrowing powers
(1) Subject to subsection (2), the Commissioner may borrow by way of overdraft such money as he
may require for meeting his obligations or performing his functions under this Ordinance.
(2) The Secretary for Home Affairs may, after consulting with the Secretary for the Treasury, give
directions in writing of a general or specific character to the Commissioner in relation to the amount of
money which may be borrowed under subsection (1) and the Commissioner shall comply with those
directions.
(3) The Commissioner may with the approval of the Secretary for Home Affairs given after the
Secretary has consulted with the Secretary for the Treasury borrow, otherwise than by way of overdraft,
such money as he may require for meeting his obligations or performing his functions under this Ordinance.
(4) A person lending money to the Commissioner shall not be concerned to inquire whether the
borrowing of the money is legal or regular or whether the money raised has been properly applied and shall
not be prejudiced by any illegality or irregularity or by misapplication or non-application of the money.
3. Investment of surplus funds
(1) Subject to subsection (2), the Commissioner may invest money that is not immediately required
to be expended.
(2) The Commissioner shall not invest money pursuant to subsection (1) except in such forms of
investment as the Secretary for Home Affairs, after consulting with the Secretary for the Treasury,
approves.
(3) Subsection (1) shall not be subject to section 10(1) of this Ordinance. 4. Accounts, audit and annual report of Commissioner IPINIlIHKGIUIl
Page 91
(1) The Commissioner shall cause proper accounts to be kept of all his financial transactions.
(2) The Commissioner shall, as soon as practicable after the expiry of a financial year, prepare a
statement of the accounts of the Commissioner, which statement shall include an income and expenditure
account and a balance sheet.
(3) The Commissioner shall appoint an auditor who shall, as soon as practicable, audit the accounts
required under subsection (1) and the statement of accounts required under subsection (2) and shall submit
a report on the statement to the Commissioner.
(4) The Commissioner shall, as soon as practicable and in any case not later than 9 months after the
expiry of a financial year (or such further period as the Chief Secretary for Administration allows), furnish
(a) a report on the activities of the Commissioner during that year including a general survey of
developments, during that year, in respect of matters falling within the scope of the
Commissioner's functions;
(b) a copy of the statement of accounts required under subsection (2); and
(c) the auditor's report on the statement,
to the Chief Secretary for Administration who shall cause the same to be tabled in the Legislative Council.
(Amended L.N. 362 of 1997)
(5) This section shall not be subject to section 10(1) of this Ordinance.
5. Director of Audit's examination
(1) The Director of Audit may, in respect of any financial year, conduct an examination into the
economy, efficiency and effectiveness with which the Commissioner has expended his resources in
performing his functions and exercising his powers.
(2) Subject to subsection (3), the Director of Audit shall have a right of access at all reasonable times
to all such documents as he may reasonably require for conducting an examination under this section and
shall be entitled to require from any person holding or being accountable for any such document such
information and explanation as he considers reasonably necessary for that purpose.
(3) Subsection (2) applies only to documents in the custody and control of the Commissioner.
(4) The Director of Audit may report to the President of the Legislative Council the results of an
examination conducted by him under this section.
(5) Subsection (1) shall not operate to entitle the Director of Audit to question the merits of the
policy objectives of the Commissioner.
6. Exemption from taxation
(1) The Commissioner shall be exempt from taxation under the Inland Revenue Ordinance (Cap
112).
(2) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that subsection (1) does not apply to or in
relation to any remuneration, benefits or expenses referred to in section 1(3) paid out of the resources ofthe
Commissioner to the Commissioner.
(Enacted 1995) IP/N/1/HKG/U/1
Page 92
Chapter: 486
Schedule: Title:
Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(pRIVACY) ORDINANCE
PRL.'K:RlSED
INFORMATION
1. The name and address of the data user. Ga7..ette Nmltber;
Versi{)ttDate! 30!O611997
[section 14(10)]
2. A description of the kind of personal data in respect of which the data user is a data user.
3. A description of the purpose or purposes for which the personal data referred to in item 2 are or are to
be collected, held, processed or used by the data user.
4. A description of any classes of persons to whom the data user discloses, intends to disclose or may
wish to disclose the personal data referred to in item 2.
5. The names or a description of any places outside Hong Kong to which the data user transfers, intends
to transfer or may wish to transfer, the personal data referred to in item 2.
6. The name and address of the individual to whom data access requests may be made to the data user.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter: 486 Title:
Schedule: He,ading: IP/N/lIHKGlUll
Page 93
PERSONAL DATA Gazette Numher:
(PRIVACY)OROmANCE
PROVlS1QNSOf VersionDate: 30/06!1991
OROlNANCES[JNi)ER
WHICHM.A1'CfffNG
PROC£DDRESAR£
REQtJIRED OR
P-ERi\>UTTED
[sections 30(1)(d) & 71]
(Enacted 1995) IP /N/1/HKGIU /1
Page 94
Chapter; 486
Schedule: 5 Thie:
Heading: PERSONAL DATA
(pRIVACY)ORDtNANt£
PRESCRIBED MATIERS Version Date:
1. Whether the carrying out of the matching procedure is in the public interest.
2. The kind of personal data to be the subject of the matching procedure. 30/0611997
[section 32(4)]
3. The likely consequences to a data subject if the matching procedure were to result in any adverse
action taken against the data subject.
4. The practices and procedures, if any, that will be followed to enable a data subject to make a data
correction request-
(a) in respect any of the personal data produced or verified by the matching procedure;
(b) before any adverse action is taken against the data subject.
5. The practices and procedures, if any, that will be followed to ensure, so far as is practicable, the
accuracy of any personal data produced or verified by the matching procedure.
6. Whether any such data subject is to be informed ofthe procedure before it is first carried out.
7. Whether there is any practicable alternative to the matching procedure.
8. The benefits to be derived from carrying out the matching procedure.
(Enacted 1995) Chapter:
Schedule: 486
6 Heading: PERSONAt,DA.TA
(pRIVACY) ORDINANCE
PART 1 Version Date: IPIN/1/HKG/u/l
Page 95
30106/1997
[sections 42(6), (7) & (11) & 71]
WARRANT AUTHORIZING PRIVACY COMMISSIONER FOR PERSONAL DATA
TO ENTER SPECIFIED PREMISES WITHOUT INFORMING
RELEVANT DATA USER
To the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data.
Having been satisfied by information upon oathldeclaration* that there are reasonable grounds for
believing that the purposes of an investigation under the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (Cap 486) in
relation to ........................................................................... . [name of relevant data user] may be
substantially prejudiced if you were required to comply with section 42(3) of that Ordinance before
exercising your power under section 42(2) of that Ordinance in respect of the premises at
............................................................................................................................................. [address
of premises occupied by the relevant data user/in which is situated the personal data system, or any part
thereof, used by the relevant data user*]:
YOU ARE HEREBY AUTHORIZED, with such assistants as may be necessary, to exercise your
power under section 42(2) of that Ordinance in respect of those premises without complying with section
42(3) of that Ordinance provided that such power is exercised before the expiration of 14 days after the date
on which this warrant is issued.
Dated this ........... day of ...................... 19 .... ..
(Signature) Magistrate
* Delete whichever is inapplicable.
PART 2
WARRANT AUTHORIZING PRIVACY COMMISSIONER FOR PERSONAL DATA
TO ENTER SPECIFIED DOMESTIC PREMISES
To the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data.
Having been satisfied by information upon oath/declaration* that there are reasonable grounds for
believing that the purposes of the investigation into ................................... [name of relevant data user]
may be substantially prejudiced if you are prevented by the operation of section 42(4) of the Personal Data
(Privacy) Ordinance (Cap 486) from exercising your power under section 42(2) of that Ordinance in respect
of the domestic premises at ........................... ..
............................................................................................................................................. [address
of domestic premises occupied by the relevant data user/in which is situated the personal data system, or
any part thereof, used by the relevant data user*]: IPIN/1/HKGIU/1
Page 96
YOU ARE HEREBY AUTHORIZED, with such assistants as may be necessary, to exercise that
power in respect of those premises provided that such power is exercised before the expiration of 14 days
after the date on which this warrant is issued.
Dated this ........... day of ......................... 19 ...... .
(Signature) Magistrate
(Enacted 1995)
* Delete whichever is inapplicable.
| 25,728 | 157,621 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_SGQ1_ARG4.PDF&Open=True.pdf
|
R_G_SGQ1_ARG4.PDF&Open=True
|
RESTRICTED
ORGANISATION MONDIALE G/SG/Q1/ARG/4
23décembre 1996
DUCOMMERCE(96-5412)
Original: espagnol Comité dessauvegardes
NOTIFICATION DELOIS ETREGLEMENTATIONS
AUTITRE DEL'ARTICLE 12:6DEL'ACCORD
Réponses del'ARGENTINE1auxquestions posées parleCANADA2
LaMission permanente del'Argentine afaitparvenir auSecrétariat lacommunication ci-après,
datée du4novembre 1996.
_______________
Réponses auxquestions posées parleCanada
Etant donné quelaRépublique argentine anotifié, ilyapeu,leDécret n1059/96 portant
réglementation envertu del'Accord surlessauvegardes, ilestentendu quelesquestions posées ne
seréfèrent pasàcedécret, maisnéanmoins, lecaséchéant, lesréponses s'yréféreront.
Question 1
LeDécret n766/94 dispose àl'article 12que"...lapreuve dudommage causé àla
production nationale doitreposer surdesfaitsetdesrenseignements objectifs etnonsurdesimples
conjectures oupossibilités lointaines". Prière d'indiquer siceprincipe s'applique également aux
enquêtes concernant l'évaluation desmesures desauvegarde évoquées àl'article 13.
Réponse
Oui. L'Argentine applique ceprincipe puisque leDécret n766/94 doitêtreinterprété àla
lumière delaLoin24.425, article 4,paragraphe 2,quidispose quelesautorités évalueront "tous
lesfacteurs pertinents denature objective etquantifiable ...".
Question 2
LeDécret n766/94 dispose àl'article 15quelaCommission peutengager desspécialistes
oudesconsultants spéciaux pourcompléter sonéquipe technique permanente. Prière d'indiquer
si,dans lecadre d'uneenquête enmatière demesures desauvegarde, desreprésentants dela
branche deproduction nationale demandant quesoient appliquées desmesures visant àpallier
leseffets desimportations peuvent êtreengagés entantquespécialistes ouconsultants spéciaux.
1G/SG/N/1/ARG/2.
2G/SG/Q1/ARG/1.G/SG/Q1/ARG/4
Page2
Réponse
Non.L'objetdel'article15estdepermettreàlaCommissiond'engagerdesexpertsindépendants
quipuissent compléter sonenquête.
Question 3
LeDécret n766/94 dispose àl'article 18quelaCommission peuttenir desaudiences
danslecadre d'uneenquête. Prière d'indiquer quelle estlaprocédure suivie pour lanotification
auxparties intéressées etleurparticipation auxaudiences.
Réponse
LaRésolutionn2/96duConseildelaCommissionnationaleducommerceextérieur(CNCE),qui
estapplicable àtouttyped'enquête, établit laprocédure àsuivre tantpourlanotification auxparties
intéressées quepourleurparticipation auxaudiences. Ainsi, ileststipulé dansladite décision que
lorsqu 'uneaudience estpublique, ildoitenêtredonné notification individuellement àtoutes lesparties
intéressées mentionnées dansledossier etaussi quel'avisdeconvocation àl'audience publique doit
paraître auJournal officiel. Lesdeuxnotifications doivent contenir desdétails surl'enquête encours,
lanature etl'objetdel'audience, ladate,l'heure etlelieudesatenue etlesconditions àremplir pour
yassister etyparticiper. Lesconvocations auxaudiences doivent êtreenvoyées aumoins 20jours
àl'avance. Lesparties peuvent, aucours d'uneaudience, faireconnaître leursvuesetcommuniquer
desrenseignements pertinents pourledéroulement del'enquête, toutenseconformant auxprescriptions
relatives auxrenseignements confidentiels. Lesparties doivent enoutre communiquer parécrittous
renseignements qu'ellesontdonnés oralement aucours del'audience, afinqu'ilpuisse enêtretenu
compte dansladétermination finale.
S'ils'agitd'uneaudience privée, ilenestdonné notification seulement auxparties concernées
parl'enquête, etiln'estpasnécessaire quel'avisdeconvocation soitpublié auJournal officiel.
Question 4
Quelles sontlesdispositions delanotification présentée parl'Argentine quitraitent des
réexamens demilieu depériode d'application etdel'examen envued'uneprorogation?
Réponse
Al'article 33duDécret n1059/96, l'Argentine applique lesdispositions del'article 7de
l'Accord surlessauvegardes, quirégitlesréexamens etlesprorogations desmesures desauvegarde.
Question 5
Desmesures desauvegarde provisoires peuvent-elles êtreprises et,dans l'affirmative,
sousquelles conditions?
Réponse
Al'article 35duDécret n1059/96, l'Argentine seconforme enlamatière auxdispositions
del'article 6del'Accord surlessauvegardes. Ainsi, lapartie quidemande l'application d'unemesure
doitdémontrer àlafoisl'existence oulamenace d'undommage résultant del'accroissement des
importations etl'existence decirconstances critiques. Ladurée delamesure provisoire nepeutpas
dépasser 200joursetestcomptée auxfinsdelapériode d'application totale delamesure desauvegarde.G/SG/Q1/ARG/4
Page3
Question 6
Lalégislation argentine fixe-t-elle desdélais pourl'application demesures desauvegarde?
Réponse
Oui.L'Argentinerespectelesdélaisprévusàl'article7del'Accordsurlessauvegardes,comme
leprescrivent lesarticles 28,29,30et31duDécret n1059/96.
Question 7
Existe-t-il dans lalégislation argentine desdispositions prescrivant lalibéralisation
progressive desmesures desauvegarde?
Réponse
Oui. L'Argentine seconforme àl'article 7:4del'Accord surlessauvegardes, quitraite de
laquestion delalibéralisation progressive, comme leprescrit l'article 33duDécret n1059/96, qui
fixedesdélais identiques àceuxqueprévoit l'Accord.
Question 8
Prière dedécrire lesdispositions législatives et/ou réglementaires concernant l'octroi d'une
compensation.
Réponse
L'Argentine applique enlamatière laprocédure énoncée àl'article 8del'Accord surles
sauvegardes.
Parailleurs,lesarticles21et22duDécretn1059/96prévoientunmécanismedecompensation
quiestconforme auxdispositions del'Accord.
| 442 | 5,420 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_IP_N_1CRIL1.PDF&Open=True.pdf
|
R_IP_N_1CRIL1.PDF&Open=True
|
WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION
ORGANISATION MONDIALE DU COMMERCE
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL DEL COMERCIO
CouRcil for Trade-Related Aspects of
Intellectual ~roperty Rights I~~/l/C~/l
17 January 2001
(01-0236)
Original: Spanish/
espagnol/
español
MAIN DEDICATED INTELLECTVAL ~RO~ERTY
LAWS AND REGULATIONS NOTIFIED UNDER
ARTICLE 63.2 OF THE AGREEMENT
COSTA RICA
The present document reproduces the textl of Law No. 7961 on the Protection of
Topographies of Integrated Circuits, notified by Costa Rica under Artiele 63.2 of the Agreement (see
document IPIN/l/CRll1).
Conseil des aspects des droits de propriété
intellectueIle qui touchent au commerce
~RINCI~ALES LOIS ET RÉGLEMENTATIONS CONSACRÉES Á LA
~RO~RIÉTÉ INTELLECTUELLE NOTIFIÉES AV TITRE
DE L'ARTICLE 63:2 DE L'ACCORD
COSTA RICA
Le présent document contient le textel de la Loi nO 7961 sur la protection des systemes de
configuration des circuits intégrés, notifiée par le Costa Rica au titre de l'artiele 63:2 de l'Accord (voir
le document IPIN/lICRI/1).
Consejo de los Aspectos de los Derechos de ~ropiedad
Intelectual relacionados con el Comercio
~RINCI~ ALES LEYES y REGLAMENTOS DEDICADOS A LA ~RO~IEDAD
INTELECTUAL NOTIFICADOS EN VIRTUD DEL ~ ÁRRAFO 2
DEL ARTÍCULO 63 DEL ACUERDO
COSTA RICA
En el presente documento se reproduce el texto I de la Ley N° 7961 de Protección a los
Sistemas de Trazados de los Circuitos Integrados, que Costa Rica ha notificado en virtud del párrafo 2
del artículo 63 del Acuerdo (véase el documento IPIN/lICRI/1).
1 In Spanish only.lEn espagnol seulement.lEn español solamente. IlP~/l/<:FtI~/l
Page2
No. 7961
lA ASAMBLEA lEGISLATIVA DE lA REPÚBLICA DE COSTA RICA
DECRETA:
PROTECCiÓN A lOS SISTEMAS DE TRAZADOS
DE lOS CIRCUITOS INTEGRADOS
CAPíTULO I
DEFINICIONES
ARTíCULO 1.- Términos utilizados
Para los efectos de esta ley, se definen los siguientes conceptos:
a) Circuito integrado: Producto, en su forma final o intermedia, de cuyos
elementos, al menos uno es activo y alguna o todas las interconexiones forman parte
del cuerpo o la superficie de una pieza de material, y que se destina a realizar una
función electrónica.
b) Esquema de trazado: Disposición tridimensional, expresada en cualquier
forma, de los elementos, al menos uno de los cuales es activo, e interconexiones de
un circuito integrado, así como esta disposición tridimensional preparada para un
circuito integrado por fabricar.
e) Titular: Persona natural o jurídica beneficiaria de la protección conferida por
la presente ley.
d) Esquema de trazado protegido: Esquema de trazado respecto del cual se
han cumplido las condiciones para protegerlo conforme a la presente ley.
e) Registro: El Registro de la Propiedad Industrial adscrito al Registro
Nacional.
CAPíTULO 11
PROTECCiÓN DE lOS ESQUEMAS DE TRAZADO
DE CIRCUITOS INTEGRADOS
ARTíCULO 2.- Competencia del Registro de la Propiedad Industrial
Para los efectos de esta ley, la administración de la propiedad intelectual estará a
cargo del Registro de la Propiedad Industrial, adscrito al Registro Nacional según la Ley de
Creación de la Junta Administrativa del Registro Nacional, No. 5695, de 28 de mayo de
1975.
ARTíCULO 3.- Obligación de protección
Los esquemas de trazado de circuitos integrados serán protegidos como objetos de
propiedad intelectual, de conformidad con esta ley.
ARTíCULO 4.- Condición para la protección
Un esquema de trazado será protegido cuando sea original. Se considerará original
cuando resulte del esfuerzo intelectual propio de su diseñador y no sea corriente en el
sector de la industria de los circuitos integrados.
Cuando un esquema de trazado esté constituido por uno o más elementos corrientes
en el sector de la industria de los circuitos integrados, se considerará original si la
combinación de los elementos, como conjunto, cumple con esta condición. ARTÍCULO 5.- Derecho a la protección IPIN/lICRIILIl
Page 3
El derecho para registrar un esquema de trazado de circuito integrado corresponde a
su diseñador. Podrá ser transferido por acto entre vivos o por vía sucesoria.
Si el esquema ha sido diseñado por dos o más personas conjuntamente, el derecho
a la protección les corresponderá en común.
Cuando el esquema se haya diseñado en cumplimiento de un contrato de obra o
servicio con este fin o en el marco de una relación laboral en la que el diseñador tenga esa
función, el derecho a la protección le corresponderá a la persona contratante de la obra o el
servicio o al empleador, salvo disposición contractual en contrario.
ARTíCULO 6.- Nacimiento del derecho exclusivo
El derecho exclusivo sobre un esquema de trazado de circuito integrado comenzará
en la fecha de presentación de la solicitud de inscripción ante el Registro, y otorgará sobre
él los respectivos derechos morales y patrimoniales.
En caso de que el esquema de trazados haya sido explotado comercialmente en
cualquier lugar del mundo, la solicitud de registro deberá presentarse ante el Registro
dentro de un plazo de dos años, contado a partir de la fecha de la primera explotación
comercial del esquema. Si la solicitud se presenta después de vencido este plazo, el
registro será denegado.
Un esquema de trazado no explotado comercialmente en ningún lugar del mundo,
sólo podrá registrarse si se solicita ante el Registro dentro de un plazo de quince años,
contado desde el último día del año civil en que se diseñó el esquema. Si la solicitud se
presenta después de vencido este plazo, el registro será denegado.
ARTíCULO 7.- Duración del derecho exclusivo
El derecho exclusivo sobre un esquema de trazado registrado tendrá duración de
diez años, contados a partir de la fecha más antigua de las siguientes:
a) El último día del año civil en que se haya realizado la primera explotación comercial
del esquema de trazados en cualquier lugar del mundo.
b) La fecha en que se haya presentado la solicitud de inscripción ante el Registro.
La protección de un esquema de trazado registrado caducará, en todo caso, al
vencer un plazo de quince años contado desde el último día del año civil en que se diseñó
el esquema.
CAPíTULO 111
CONTENIDO, ALCANCE Y EXCEPCIONES DEL DERECHO
ARTíCULO 8.- Derechos exclusivos
El registro de un esquema de trazado de circuito integrado confiere a su titular el
derecho de impedir que terceras personas realicen cualquiera de los siguientes actos:
a) Reproducir, por incorporación en un circuito integrado o de cualquier otro
modo, el esquema de trazado protegido, en su totalidad o una de sus partes que
cumpla la condición de originalidad según el primer párrafo del artículo 4 de la
presente ley.
b) Comercializar, importar, ofrecer en venta, vender o distribuir, en cualquier
forma, el esquema de trazado protegido, un circuito integrado que incorpore ese
esquema o un artículo que contenga tal circuito.
La protección conferida por el registro solo atañe propiamente al esquema de
trazado y no comprende ningún concepto, proceso, sistema, técnica ni información que se
codifique o incorpore en el esquema de trazado. IP/N/lICRI/L/l
Page4
La protección se aplicará independientemente de que el circuito integrado que
incorpora el esquema de trazado registrado se encuentre contenido en un artículo e
independientemente de que el esquema se haya incorporado en un circuito integrado.
ARTíCULO 9.- Excepciones del derecho exclusivo
El derecho conferido por el registro de un esquema de trazado solo podrá hacerse
valer contra actos realizados con fines industriales o comerciales. El registro no confiere el
derecho de impedir:
a) Actos realizados en el ámbito privado y con propósitos no comerciales.
b) Actos realizados exclusivamente con fines de evaluación, análisis o
experimentación, respecto al esquema de trazado protegido o el circuito integrado que
lo incorpora.
e) Actos realizados exclusivamente con fines de enseñanza o investigación
científica o académica.
d) Actos referidos en el artículo 5 ter del Convenio de París para la Protección
de la Propiedad Industrial, Ley No. 7484, de 28 de abril de 1995.
ARTíCULO 10.- Agotamiento de derecho
El registro de un esquema de trazado no confiere el derecho de impedir a un tercero
realizar los actos mencionados en el inciso b) del primer párrafo del artículo 8de la presente
ley respecto de esquemas de trazado protegidos, de circuitos integrados que los incorporen
o artículos que contengan estos circuitos después de que hayan sido introducidos en el
comercio en cualquier país, por el titular u otra persona con consentimiento de este o
económicamente vinculada a él.
A efectos del párrafo precedente, se entenderá que dos personas están
económicamente vinculadas cuando una puede ejercer, directa o indirectamente, sobre la
otra influencia decisiva respecto de la explotación del esquema de trazado protegido o
cuando un tercero puede ejercer esa influencia sobre ambas personas.
ARTíCULO 11.- Ingeniería inversa
El titular del registro de un esquema de trazado no podrá impedir a un tercero
realizar actos de explotación industrial ni comercial relativos a un esquema de trazado
creado por un tercero, mediante la evaluación o el análisis del esquema de trazado
protegido, siempre que el esquema así creado cumpla la condición de originalidad aludida
en el artículo 3 de la presente ley. Tampoco podrá impedir estos actos respecto de los
circuitos integrados que incorporen el esquema de trazado así creado ni de los artículos que
los incorporen.
ARTíCULO 12.- Creación independiente
El titular del registro de un esquema de trazado no podrá impedirle a un tercero
realizar los actos mencionados en el inciso b) del primer párrafo del artículo 8de la presente
ley respecto de otro esquema de trazado original creado independientemente por un
tercero, aun cuando sea idéntico.
ARTíCULO 13.- Infractor inocente
No se considerará infracción de los derechos sobre un esquema de trazado
registrado, la realización de algún acto referido en el inciso b) del primer párrafo del artículo
8 de la presente ley respecto de un circuito integrado que incorpore, ilícitamente, un
esquema de trazado o de un artículo que contenga tal circuito integrado, cuando quien lo
realice no sepa ni tenga motivos razonables para saber que el esquema se había
reproducido de modo ilícito.
Sin perjuicio de lo dispuesto en el párrafo anterior, desde el momento en que esa
persona sea informada de la ilicitud del esquema de trazado, podrá continuar realizando
esos actos respecto de los productos que aún tenga en existencia o que haya pedido desde IPIN/lICRIlLIl
Page 5
antes. Sin embargo, a petición del titular del derecho deberá pagarle una compensación
equivalente a la regalía que habría correspondido por una contractual.
CAPíTULO IV
TRANSFERENCIA Y liCENCIAS
ARTíCULO 14.- Transferencia del derecho
Un registro de esquema de trazado o una solicitud de registro podrá ser transferido
por acto entre vivos o por vía sucesoria.
Toda transferencia relativa a un esquema de trazado registrado o a una solicitud de
registro deberá constar por escrito. La transferencia tendrá efectos legales frente a terceros
a partir de la presentación en el Registro.
ARTíCULO 15.- licencias contractuales
El titular o el solicitante de un registro de esquema de trazado podrá conceder
licencia para la explotación de este esquema.
La transferencia tendrá efectos legales frente a terceros a partir de la presentación
en el Registro.
l. ARTÍCULO 16.- LICENCIAS OBLIGATORIAS
Serán aplicables a la concesión de una licencia obligatoria respecto de un esquema
de trazado, las condiciones determinadas para conceder las licencias obligatorias respecto
de patentes de invención, determinadas por la Ley de Patentes de Invención, Dibujos y
Modelos Industriales y Modelos de Utilidad, No. 6867, de 25 de abril de 1983 y sus
reformas.
CAPíTULO V
PROCEDIMIENTO DE REGISTRO
ARTíCULO 17.- Solicitud de registro
El registro de un esquema de trazado de circuito integrado se solicitará en el
Registro. La solicitud contendrá:
a) Un petitorio.
b) Una representación gráfica del esquema de trazado cuyo registro se solicita.
e) Una declaración con la fecha de la primera explotación comercial del circuito
integrado en cualquier lugar del mundo, cuando sea el caso.
d) Una descripción que defina la función electrónica que debe realizar el circuito
integrado que incorpora el esquema de trazado.
e) Los poderes jurídicamente establecidos que sean necesarios.
El petitorio contendrá:
i) El nombre y la dirección del solicitante.
ii) El domicilio del solicitante y, cuando sea una persona jurídica, el lugar de su
domicilio legal.
iii) El nombre y la dirección del diseñador del esquema de trazado, cuando no
sea el mismo solicitante.
iv) El nombre y la dirección del representante o apoderado en el país, cuando el
solicitante no tenga domicilio ni establecimiento en Costa Rica.
v) Una petición de registro del esquema de trazado.
vi) La fecha, el número y la oficina de presentación de toda solicitud de registro
u otro título de protección presentado u obtenido en ei extranjero por el mismo IPIN/1/CRIlLIl
Page6
solicitante o su causante, que se refiera, total o parcialmente, al mismo esquema de
trazado objeto de la solicitud presentada en Costa Rica.
vii) La firma del solicitante o de su representante.
Cuando el esquema de trazado cuyo registro se solicita incluya algún secreto
empresarial, el solicitante presentará, además de la representación gráfica requerida
conforme al primer párrafo de este artículo una representación del esquema en la cual se
hayan omitido, borrado o desfigurado las partes que contengan ese secreto; las restantes
deberán ser suficientes para permitir, en todo caso, la identificación del esquema de
trazado.
ARTíCULO 18.- Fecha de presentación
Se considerará como fecha de presentación de la solicitud la de su recepción por el
registro, siempre que contenga, al menos, lo siguiente:
a) Indicación, expresa o implícita, de que se solicita el registro de un esquema
de trazado.
b) Datos que permitan identificar al solicitante o a quien presente la solicitud o le
permitan al Registro comunicarse con esa persona.
e) Representación gráfica del esquema de trazado cuyo registro se solicita.
Si la solicitud omite alguno de los elementos indicados en el párrafo anterior, su
fecha de presentación no será válida y el Registro se lo notificará al solicitante para que
subsane la omisión. Mientras no la subsane, la solicitud se considerará como no
presentada. Si la subsana, se considerará como fecha de presentación aquella en la cual
queden cumplidos por lo menos los requisitos indicados en el párrafo anterior.
ARTíCULO 19.- Desistimiento de la solicitud
El solicitante podrá desistir de su solicitud en cualquier momento del trámite. El
desistimiento acaba con la instancia administrativa y, en consecuencia, se pierde la fecha
de presentación atribuida.
ARTíCULO 20.- Examen de la solicitud
El Registro examinará si el objeto de la solicitud constituye un esquema de trazado
conforme a la definición del artículo 1 de la presente ley, y si la solicitud comprende los
elementos señalados en el artículo 17 de esta ley.
En caso de observarse alguna omisión o deficiencia, se notificará al solicitante para
que la corrija dentro de un plazo de tres meses, bajo apercibimiento de considerarse
abandonada la solicitud y archivarse de oficio. Si el solicitante no efectúa la corrección en
dicho plazo, el Registro hará efectivo el apercibimiento mediante resolución fundamentada.
ARTíCULO 21.- Publicación de la solicitud
Examinada la solicitud, el Registro ordenará anunciarla mediante la publicación de
un aviso, a costa del interesado, en el diario oficial.
El aviso deberá entregarse a la Imprenta Nacional dentro de los quince días hábiles
siguientes a la fecha de recepción de la orden de publicación correspondiente. En su
defecto, la solicitud, de pleno derecho caerá, en abandono y se archivará de oficio. Dentro
de los dos meses a partir de la publicación, el interesado deberá presentar al Registro un
ejemplar de la página del diario oficial en que apareció el aviso o fotocopia de ella. Si el
ejemplar no se presenta dentro del plazo indicado, la solicitud caerá de pleno derecho en
abandono y se archivará de oficio.
ARTíCULO 22.- Observaciones IP 1N/IICRIIL/l
Page 7
Cualquier persona interesada podrá presentar al Registro observaciones
fundamentadas, incluso informaciones o documentos útiles para determinar la
registrabilidad de un esquema de trazado.
Las observaciones recibidas se notificarán al solicitante, quien podrá presentar
comentarios o documentos relativos a ellas.
La presentación de observaciones no suspenderá la tramitación de la solicitud.
Quien las haga no pasará por ello a ser parte en el procedimiento.
De recibirse observaciones, el Registro podrá examinarlas a fin de determinar la
registrabilidad del esquema de trazado.
ARTíCULO 23.- Resoluciones y registro
Si se han cumplido los requisitos fijados, el Registro registrará el esquema de
trazado, expedirá un certificado con los datos incluidos en el registro correspondiente y
ordenará que el registro se anuncie en el diario oficial.
CAPíTULO VI
NULIDAD, ANULACiÓN Y OTRAS MEDIDAS
ARTíCULO 24.- Nulidad
Siempre que se garanticen los pnnclplos del debido proceso, el Registro podrá
declarar, de oficio o a pedido de cualquier sujeto al menos con interés legítimo la nulidad de
registro de un esquema de trazado, siempre que sea evidente y manifiesta, en los
siguientes casos:
a) Cuando el objeto del registro no constituya un esquema de trazado
conforme a la definición del artículo 1 de la presente ley.
b) Cuando el registro se haya concedido para un esquema de trazado
que no cumple con los requisitos de protección previstos en el artículo 4 de la
presente ley.
e) Cuando el registro se haya concedido para un esquema de trazado
presentado después de vencido alguno de los plazos dispuestos en los párrafos
segundo y tercero del artículo 6 de la presente ley.
Cuando una causal de nulidad solo afecte a una parte del esquema de trazado
registrado, la nulidad se declarará únicamente respecto de la parte afectada, y el registro
quedará vigente para las demás partes, siempre que, en su conjunto, cumplan el requisito
de originalidad conforme al artículo 4 de la presente ley.
la acción de nulidad prescribirá a los cuatro años contados desde la fecha de
concesión del registro.
La declaración de nulidad tendrá efecto retroactivo a la fecha del acto, todo sin
perjuicio de los derechos adquiridos de buena fe.
Tratándose de una nulidad declarada de oficio se estará a lo dispuesto en los incisos
1) a 3) del artículo 173 de la Ley General de la Administración Pública, No. 6227, de 2 de
mayo de 1978.
ARTíCULO 25.- Anulación
Siempre que se garanticen los principios del debido proceso, un registro de esquema de
trazado podrá anularse, cuando se haya concedido a quien no tenía el derecho de
obtenerlo. La acción de anulación solo podrá ser iniciada por la persona a quien le
pertenezca el derecho de obtener el registro y se ejercerá ante la autoridad competente.
Esta acción prescribirá a los dos años contados desde la fecha en que la persona a quien
pertenezca el derecho de obtener el registro haya tenido conocimiento de la
comercialización del producto que incorpora el esquema de trazado en el país. IPIN/l/CRIlL/l
Page 8
La anulación producirá efectos solo para el futuro, excepto cuando se necesite el efecto
retroactivo para evitar daños al destinatario, a terceros o al interés público.
ARTíCULO 26.- Responsabilidades
Las acciones administrativas, civiles o penales relacionadas con esta ley se
regularán en una ley posterior sobre procedimientos de observancia de los derechos de
propiedad intelectual.
CAPíTULO VII
DISPOSICIONES GENERALES
ARTíCULO 27.- Agrupación de pedidos
Podrá solicitarse, mediante un pedido único, la modificación o corrección de dos o
más solicitudes o registros, siempre que la modificación o corrección haya sido la misma
para todos y que se notifique a cada uno de los solicitantes.
Podrá solicitarse, mediante un pedido único, la inscripción de transferencias relativas
a dos o más solicitudes o registros, siempre que el transfirente y adquirente sean los
mismos en todos. Esto se aplicará, en lo pertinente, a la inscripción de las licencias.
Para lo previsto en este artículo, el peticionante deberá identificar cada solicitud o
registro en que deba hacerse la modificación, corrección o inscripción.
ARTíCULO 28.- Ausencia de legalización
Ningún trámite administrativo, instancia de parte o contencioso, relativo a la
obtención, el mantenimiento o la disposición de un registro previsto en esta ley, será
admisible si los documentos no cumplen las autenticaciones, la legalización, y la
certificación respectiva.
ARTíCULO 29.- Prórroga de plazos
A petición del solicitante o titular de un registro, en casos debidamente justificados,
el Registro podrá prorrogar en forma prudencial los plazos establecidos a favor del
solicitante o titular en esta ley o sus disposiciones reglamentarias, para contestar una
notificación o un requerimiento del Registro.
ARTíCULO 30.- Inscripción y publicación de las resoluciones
El Registro inscribirá y publicará en el diario oficial las resoluciones y sentencias
firmes relativas a la concesión de licencias obligatorias y a la nulidad, anulación o renuncia
de los registros.
ARTíCULO 31.- Publicidad del registro
El registro de esquemas de trazado de circuitos integrados es público y cualquier
persona podrá consultarlo, de acuerdo con las modalidades de consulta que determinará el
Registro.
Cuando el esquema de trazado cuyo registro se solicita incluya algún secreto
empresarial, y el solicitante haya presentado, oportunamente, una representación del
esquema en la cual se hayan omitido, borrado o desconfigurado las partes que contengan el
secreto, la representación gráfica integral del esquema no será accesible a terceras
personas, salvo con autorización escrita del solicitante o el titular del registro.
ARTíCULO 32.- Publicidad de expedientes
Cualquier persona podrá consultar en el Registro el expediente relativo a una
solicitud publicada aun después de haber concluido su trámite.
El expediente de una solicitud en trámite no podrá ser consultado por terceros antes
de publicarse la solicitud, salvo consentimiento por escrito del solicitante. Esta restricción IP lN/lICRIIL/l
Page 9
es aplicable igualmente a las solicitudes que hayan sido objeto de desistimiento o
abandono, antes de ser publicadas.
El expediente de una solicitud en trámite podrá ser consultado antes de su
publicación por quien acredite que el solicitante lo ha notificado para que cese alguna
actividad industrial o comercial, invocando la solicitud.
Cuando el esquema de trazado incluya algún secreto empresarial, será aplicable, en
lo pertinente, lo dispuesto en el tercer párrafo del artículo anterior.
CAPíTULO VIII
DISPOSICIONES FINALES
ARTíCULO 33.- Reglamento
El Poder Ejecutivo reglamentará esta ley en un plazo máximo de seis meses.
Rige a partir de su publicación.
COMISiÓN LEGISLATIVA PLENA TERCERA.- Aprobado el anterior proyecto el
día treinta de noviembre de mil novecientos noventa y nueve-Alicia Fournier Vargas,
PRESIDENTA- Everardo Rodríguez Bastos, SECRETARIO
COMUNíCASE AL PODER EJECUTIVO
ASAMBLEA LEGISLATIVA.- San José, a los trece días del mes de diciembre de mil
novecientos noventa y nueve. Carlos Vargas Pagán, PRESIDENTE- Manuel Ant. Bolaños
Salas, PRIMER SECRETARIO -Rafael Ángel Villa Ita Loaiza, SEGUNDO SECRETARIO
PRESIDENCIA DE LA REPÚBlICA.- San José, a los diecisiete días del mes de diciembre
de mil novecientos noventa y nueve.
EJECÚTESE Y PUBLíQUESE
MIGUEL ANGEL RODRIGUEZ ECHEVERRIA.- El Ministro de Comercio Exterior, Samuel
Guzowski Rose.-1 vez.-(Solicitud No. 28681 ).-C-47880.- (76).
| 3,701 | 24,064 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_AG_NEST8.pdf
|
Q_G_AG_NEST8
|
WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONG/AG/N/EST/8
7 October 2002
(02-5389)
Committee on Agriculture Original: English
NOTIFICATION
The following notification concerning export subsidy commitments ( Table ES:1 ) for the
calendar year 2001 was received from the delegation of Estonia on 18 September 2002.
______________
The Republic of Estonia has the honour to inform the Committee on Agriculture that no
export subsidies existed during the year 2001.
__________
| 64 | 451 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_SPS_NTTO4.pdf
|
S_G_SPS_NTTO4
|
. /.ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/SPS/N/TTO/4
16 de julio de 2003
(03-3846)
Comité de Medidas Sanitarias y Fitosanitarias Original: inglés
NOTIFICACIÓN DE MEDIDAS DE URGENCIA
1. Miembro del Acuerdo que notifica: TRINIDAD Y TABAGO
Si procede, nombre del gobierno local de que se trate:
2. Organismo responsable: División de Protección y Sa nidad Animal, Ministerio de
Agricultura y Recursos Terrestres y Marinos
3. Productos abarcados (número de la(s) partida(s) arancelaria(s) según se especifica en
las listas nacionales depositadas en la OMC; deberá indicarse además, cuando
proceda, el número de partida de la ICS): Animales vivos de la especie bovina; todas las
carnes y productos cárnicos de bovino, incluidos los productos para la alimentación animal y
demás productos que contengan despojos cárnicos o harina de carne y huesos.
4. Regiones o países que podrían verse afectados, en la medida en que sea pertinente o
factible: Canadá
5. Título, idioma y número de páginas del documento notificado: N° 952 del volumen 42,
Nº 88 de la Gaceta de Trinidad y Tabago, de fecha jueves 12 de junio de 2003.
6. Descripción del contenido: Prohibición provisional de importación de animales vivos de
la especie bovina, todas las carnes y productos cárnicos de bovino, incluidos los pr oductos
para la alimentación animal y demás productos que contengan despojos cárnicos o harina de
carne y huesos. Medida provisional de urgencia que se revisará al cabo de un mes.
7. Objetivo y razón de ser: [ X ] inocuidad de los alimentos, [ X ] sanidad animal,
[ ] preservación de los vegetales, [ X ] protección de la salud humana contra las
enfermedades o plagas animales o vegetales, [ ] protección del territorio contra otros
daños causados por plagas
8. Naturaleza del (de los) problema(s) urgente(s) y justificación de la medida de urgencia:
Prohibición provisional de impor tación de animales de la especie bovina, carnes y productos
cárnicos de bovino para impedir la entrada y propagación de la encefalopatía espongiforme
bovina en Trinidad y Tabago.
9. Norma, directriz o recomendación internacional:
[ ] de la Comisión del Codex Alimentarius, [ X ] de la Oficina Internacional de
Epizootias, [ ] de la Convención In ternacional de Protección Fitosanitaria,
[ ] Ninguna
Si existe una norma, directriz o recomendación internacional, facilítese la referencia
adecuada de la misma y señálense brev emente las diferencias con ella: Código
Zoosanitario de la OIE (2002), Capítulo 2.3.13G/SPS/N/TTO/4
Página 2
10. Documentos pertinentes e idio ma(s) en que están disponibles:
a) Ley sobre Animales (enfermedades e importación), de Trinidad y Tabago,
Capítulo 67.02 (Rev. 1980), Reglamento relativo al control de animales (importación),
Legislación subsidiaria Nº 15 (13);
b) Nº 952 del volumen 42, Nº 88 de la Gaceta de Trinidad y Tabago, de fecha 12 de junio
de 2003.
11. Fecha de entrada en vigor/período de aplicación (según corresponda): 22 de mayo
de 2003
12. Organismo o autoridad encargado de tramit ar las observaciones: [ ] Organismo
nacional encargado de la notificación, [ ] Servicio nacional de información, o dirección,
número de telefax y dirección de correo electr ónico (si la hay) de otra institución:
Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Marine Resources
Central Experimentation Station
via ArimaPost Office
Centeno
Trinidad y Tabago
Teléfono: (868) 646 2149
Telefax: (868) 646 2149Correo electrónico: [email protected]
13. Textos disponibles en: [ ] Organismo nacional encargado de la notificación,
[ ] Servicio nacional de información, o dirección, número de telefax y dirección de
correo electrónico (si la hay) de otra institución:
Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Marine Resources
Central Experimentation Station
via ArimaPost Office
Centeno
Trinidad y Tabago
Teléfono: (868) 646 2149
Telefax: (868) 646 2149Correo electrónico: [email protected]
| 601 | 3,938 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_PRESS_TPRB163.pdf
|
Q_WT_PRESS_TPRB163
|
MOREPRESS RELEASE
PRESS/TPRB/163
11 May 2001
(01-2462)
TRADE POLICY REVIEW BODY
REVIEW OF COSTA RICA
TPRB'S EVALUATION
The Trade Policy Review Body of the World Trade Organization (WTO) concluded its
second review of Costa Rica on 9 and 11 May 2001. The text of the Chairperson's concluding remarks
is attached as a summary of the salient points which emerged during the discussion.
The review enables the TPRB to conduct a collec tive examination of the full range of trade
policies and practices of each WTO member countries at regular periodic intervals to monitor
significant trends and developments which may have an impact on the global trading system.
The review is based on two reports which are prepared respectively by the WTO Secretariat
and the government under review and which cover all aspects of the country's trade policies, including
its domestic laws and regulations, the institutional framework, bilateral, regional and otherpreferential agreements, the wider economic needs and the external environment. A record of the
discussion and the Chairperson's summing-up together with these two reports will be published in due
course at the complete trade policy review of Costa Rica and will be available from the WTO
Secretariat, Centre William Rappard, 154 rue de Lausanne, 1211 Geneva 21.PRESS/TPRB/163
Page 2
MORESince December 1989, the following reports have been completed: Argentina (1992 and
1999), Australia (1989, 1994 and 1998), Austria (19 92), Bahrain (2000) Bangladesh (1992 and 2000),
Benin (1997), Bolivia (1993 and 1999), Botswana (1998), Brazil (1992, 1996 and 2000), Burkina
Faso (1998), Cameroon (1995), Canada (1990, 1992, 1994, 1996, 1998 and 2000), Chile (1991 and
1997), Colombia (1990 and 1996), Costa Rica (1995 a nd 2001), Côte d’Ivoire (1995), Cyprus (1997),
the Czech Republic (1996), the Dominican Republic (1996), Egypt (1992 and 1999), El Salvador(1996), the European Communities (1991, 1993, 1995, 1997 and 2000), Fiji (1997), Finland (1992),
Ghana (1992 and 2001), Guinea (1999), Hong Kong (1990, 1994 and 1998), Hungary (1991 and
1998), Iceland (1994 and 2000), India (1993 a nd 1998), Indonesia (1991, 1994 and 1998), Israel
(1994 and 1999), Jamaica (1998), Japan (1990, 1992, 1995,1998 and 2000), Kenya (1993 and 2000),
Korea, Rep. of (1992, 1996 and 2000), Lesotho (1998), Macau, China (1994 and 2001), Madagascar
(2001), Malaysia (1993 and 1997), Mali (1998), Mauritius (1995), Mexico (1993 and 1997), Morocco
(1989 and 1996), New Zealand ( 1990 and 1996), Namibia (1998), Nicaragua (1999), Nigeria (1991
and 1998), Norway (1991, 1996 and 2000), Pakistan (1995), Papua New Guinea (1999), Paraguay
(1997), Peru (1994 and 2000), the Philippines (1993), Poland (1993), Romania (1992 and 1999),
Senegal (1994), Singapore (1992, 1996 and 2000), Slovak Republic (1995), the Solomon Islands
(1998), South Africa (1993 and 1998), Sri Lanka(1995), Swaziland (1998), Sweden (1990 and 1994),
Switzerland (1991, 1996 and 2000 (jointly with Liechtenstein), Tanzania (2000), Thailand (1991,1995 and 1999), Togo (1999), Trinidad and Tobago (1998), Tunisia (1994), Turkey (1994 and 1998),
the United States (1989, 1992, 1994, 1996 and 1999) , Uganda (1995), Uruguay (1992 and 1998),
Venezuela (1996), Zambia (1996) and Zimbabwe (1994).PRESS/TPRB/163
Page 3
MORETRADE POLICY REVIEW BODY
REVIEW OF COSTA RICA
CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON
1. Our discussions over the past two days have allowed us to come to a fuller understanding and
appreciation of Costa Rica's trade policies and practices. This has been greatly helped by the
openness and frankness of the delegation, led by Vice-Minister Llobet, and I am sure that we are all
very grateful for their active participation. Members were all favourably impressed by Costa Rica's
good economic performance in recent years. They noted that underlying this performance was CostaRica's generally liberal trade regime, open investment environment and successful strategy to shift
production towards manufacturing, notably into export industries. Trade has also been an important
element in this performance with the share of trade to GDP rising from 71% to 97% over the last
decade. However, growth of per capita disposable income had not been as impressive as overall
growth, suggesting the need to strengthen the linkages between domestic and export-oriented
activities. Costa Rica has recognized the problem and is already taking steps in this direction.
2. Members complimented Costa Rica for its continued strong support, for the multilateral trading
system and for its active participation in the work of the WTO. Several Members welcomed CostaRica's clear support for the launching of a new round of negotiations with a broad agenda. Members
took note of Costa Rica's increased participation in preferential arrangements and highlighted the
importance of ensuring that such participation is fully consistent with multilateral principles, so as to
ensure the complementarity of multilateral and regional liberalization efforts and to avoid the
marginalization of third countries.
3. Members commended Costa Rica for its success in providing a stable economic and institutional
environment. However, some recent difficulties to reform and modernize important sectors, such as
telecommunications, insurance and energy, raised concerns about Costa Rica's ability to keep up with
technological and market developments.
4. Participants recognized that access to the Costa Rican market is generally liberal. Nevertheless,
Members noted the persistence of access barriers in a few but important sectors, particularly in some
services areas. Members also raised some concerns about the wide gap between applied and bound
tariff rates, relatively high protection in the agricultural sector, price and marketing regulations, and
remaining monopolies in telecommunications, insurance and energy distribution services. The CostaRican delegation noted that legislative initiatives were in course to address some of these issues.
5. Specific questions were also asked regarding Costa Rica's:
• strong dependence of exports on a sing le producer of electronic components;
• export incentives mechanisms, including after they expire in 2003;
• schemes to encourage backward linkages between export-oriented activities and the
domestic economy;
• differential treatment of national and imported alcoholic beverages;
• plans to further upgrade and improve customs procedures and administration;
• use of labelling and SPS measures;
• marketing of agricultural products, including sugar and coffee;
• administration of tariff-quotas and special safeguards on a few agricultural products;
• plans to liberalize and reform the services sector, and access conditions to
professional, air transport and financial services;
• GATS commitments;
• possible participation in the GPA; and
• protection of IPRs.PRESS/TPRB/163
Page 4
6. Members clearly appreciated the comprehensive responses provided by Costa Rica to questions
addressed in writing and to the questions raised during the Review. I thank in particular the Costa
Rican delegation for its dedication and hard work in providing written answers to the many questions
posed by Members.
In conclusion, it is my clear impression that this Body appreciates Costa Rica's commitment
to a strong rules-based multilateral trading system. Costa Rica is a prime example of how small WTOeconomies may benefit from trade liberalization and the multilateral trading system. Generally,
Members see the Costa Rican trade and investment regime as open and transparent, but are also aware
of remaining barriers. In this respect, several Me mbers believed that liberalization should also extend
to those sensitive service areas that to date lag the process of reform. This would bring these sectors –
some of which, such as telecommunications are vital for the infrastructure, - in line with policies in
other areas. This would complement Costa Rica's otherwise growth supportive policies, to the benefit
of both Costa Rica's economy and of the multilateral trading system.
END
| 1,215 | 8,114 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_IP_N_1HKGL2.pdf
|
Q_IP_N_1HKGL2
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/R_G_SGQ1_CHN17.pdf
|
R_G_SGQ1_CHN17
|
. /. ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCE G/SG/Q1/CHN/17
7 juin 2004
(04-2448)
Comité des sauvegardes Original: espagnol
NOTIFICATION DES LOIS ET RÉGLEMENTATIONS
AU TITRE DE L'ARTICLE 12:6 DE L'ACCORD
Questions posées par le MEXIQUE au sujet de la notification
de la RÉPUBLIQUE POPULAIRE DE CHINE1
La communication ci-après, datée du 1
er juin 2004, est distribuée à la demande de la
délégation du Mexique.
_______________
Règles provisoires relatives à l'ouverture d' une enquête en matiè re de sauvegardes
(G/SG/N/1/CHN/2/Suppl.1, 19 février 2003)
Article 20
:
Question n° 1
Pourriez-vous nous communiquer une liste de la terminologie normalisée ou des termes
techniques adoptés par la Chine?
Règles provisoires relatives à la conduite des a uditions dans le cadre des enquêtes en matière
de sauvegardes (G/SG/N/1/CHN/2/Suppl.1, 19 février 2003) Article 4
:
Question n° 2
Le concept de secret commercial est-il identique à celui d'information confidentielle? Dans la
négative, quelles différences existe-t-il entre les deux?
Règles relatives aux enquêtes en matière de sa uvegardes et aux détermin ations de l'existence
d'un dommage causé à une branche de production (G/SG/N/CHN/2/Suppl.2, 15 avril 2003)
1 G/SG/N/1/CHN/2/Suppl.1 du 19 février 2003 et G/SG/N/CHN/2/Suppl.2 du 15 avril 2003.
G/SG/Q1/CHN/17
Page 2
Article 22
:
Question n° 3
Pourriez-vous donner des exemples des autres ty pes de questionnaires utilisés? Dans quelles
conditions avez-vous recours à ces autres questionnaires?
__________
| 221 | 1,653 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_IP_C_W91.pdf
|
R_IP_C_W91
|
RESTRICTED
ORGANISATION MONDIALE IP/C/W/91
13novembre 1997
DUCOMMERCE(97-4969)
Original: anglais Conseil desaspects desdroits depropriété
intellectuelle quitouchent aucommerce
EXAMEN DESLEGISLATIONS RELATIVES AUX MOYENS
DEFAIRE RESPECTER LESDROITS
Réponses delaBulgarie auxquestions posées parleJapon1
LaMission permanente delaRépublique deBulgarie afaitparvenir auSecrétariat la
communication ci-après, datée du11novembre 1997.
_______________
REPONSES AUX QUESTIONS POSEES PAR LEJAPON
1. Prière d'indiquer les"autorités [...]compétentes" auxquelles faitréférence l'article 51
del'Accord surlesADPIC.
Selon laloibulgare, lesautorités compétentes auxquelles faitréférence l'article 51del'Accord
surlesADPIC sontlesautorités douanières.
2. Prière d'indiquer sila"procédure conduisant àunedécision aufond" prévue àl'article 55
del'Accord surlesADPIC estjudiciaire ouadministrative.
Selon lalégislation bulgare, laprocédure conduisant àunedécision aufondprévue àl'article 55
del'Accord surlesADPIC estuneprocédure judiciaire.
Quand l'objetdel'infraction estunemarque defabrique oudecommerce, undessin oumodèle
industriel ouuneindication dulieud'origine etquecetteinfraction aétéconstatée parunedécision
administrative decaractère répressif envertu desdispositions del'article 52delaLoisurlesmarques
defabrique oudecommerce etlesdessins etmodèles industriels, l'action enjustice seraintentée devant
letribunal dedistrict dansleressort duquel l'infraction aétécommise. Quand l'infraction relative
auxobjets depropriété intellectuelle susmentionnés estconstatée parletribunal envertudesdispositions
del'article 51delaLoisurlesmarques defabrique oudecommerce etlesdessins oumodèles
industriels, l'autorité compétente estletribunal dedistrict approprié.
Danslescasd'atteinteàdesdroitssuruneinventionouunmodèled'utilité,l'autoritécompétente
estleTribunal delavilledeSofia.
Dans lescasd'atteinte àdesdroits relatifs àuncertificat d'obtention végétale, l'autorité
compétente estleTribunal delarégion deSofia et,lorsque l'infraction estconstatée pardécision
1IP/C/W/82.IP/C/W/91
Page2
administrative comme indiqué ci-dessus, l'autorité compétente estletribunal dedistrict dulieude
l'infraction.
3. Ya-t-il d'autres moyens quelademande visée auxarticles 51et52del'Accord surles
ADPIC (ci-après désignée parl'expression "lademande") permettant audétenteur d'undroit
dedemander auxautorités compétentes desuspendre lamiseenlibrecirculation desmarchandises
quiportent atteinte àdesDPI, ouquisontsoupçonnées d'yporter atteinte?
Lalégislation delaRépublique deBulgarie comporte une"procédure degarantie", prévue
auxarticles 308etsuivants duCode deprocédure civile. Selon cesdispositions, lerequérant, àtout
stade delaprocédure judiciaire ouavant d'intenter uneaction visant àconstater l'atteinte àundroit
depropriété intellectuelle, peut,afind'empêcher l'entrée desmarchandises contrefaites danslescircuits
commerciaux, produire despreuves écrites adéquates ouoffrir unegarantie enespèces ouennature.
Lesmesures conservatoires queletribunal peutordonner sontlasaisie desmarchandises portant atteinte
àdesDPIetlesautres mesures qu'iljugera appropriées. Cesmesures privent ledéfendeur ducontrôle
desarticles saisis, l'obligent àenassurer lagarde etpeuvent conduire àleurmisesousséquestre.
Quand l'infraction estconstatée parunedécision administrative envertu desdispositions de
l'article 46delaLoisurlesinfractions etsanctions administratives, laresponsabilité delagarde des
marchandises portant atteinte àdesdroits depropriété intellectuelle estconfiée:
- aubureau del'autorité dontémane ladécision administrative;
- àl'administration municipale dulieudel'infraction;
- àl'auteur del'infraction ouàd'autres personnes.
Lesproduitspérissablessontvendusparlessoinsd'entreprisesd'Etatoud'entreprisesmunicipales
etlemontant delavente, diminué desdépenses engagées, estdéposé auprès delaBanque d'épargne
del'Etat.
4. Prière d'indiquer quelle période votre paysconsidère comme étant undélai raisonnable
dans lequel lesautorités compétentes feront savoir aurequérant siellesontounonfaitdroit à
sademande, ausensdel'article 52del'Accord surlesADPIC.
Ledétenteur desdroits depropriété intellectuelle peutrecourir àlaprocédure degarantie
mentionnée danslaréponse ci-dessus àlaquestion 3etobtenir, pardécision dutribunal, queles
marchandises soient retenues endouane.
Lesprocédures tendant àsuspendre l'importation demarchandises quiportent atteinte auxdroits
depropriété intellectuelle d'untierssontprévues parleprojet deLoisurlesmarques etlesindications
géographiques. Ceprojet deloienestaustade finaldelaprocédure législative, étantactuellement
eninstance d'adoption parl'Assemblée nationale. Auxtermes desonarticle 75,paragraphe 1,les
autoritésdouanièresàlademandedudétenteurdudroitdoiventsuspendrel'importationdesmarchandises
etenaviser l'importateur, enluidonnant undélaideseptjours pourfaireopposition àcettemesure.
Enl'absence d'opposition del'importateur danscedélai, lesautorités douanières procèdent àlasaisie
desmarchandises auprofit del'Etat(article 75,paragraphe 2).IP/C/W/91
Page3
5. Prière d'indiquer lapériode devalidité delademande.
Selon lesdispositions del'article 309duCode deprocédure civile, ledélaidanslequel l'affaire
doitêtreportée devant letribunal estfixéparletribunal lui-même.
L'article 77,paragraphe 1,duprojet deLoisurlesmarques etlesindications géographiques
dispose quelesmarchandises retenues endouane seront remises enlibrecirculation siledétenteur
dudroitn'apas,dansundélaide14joursàcompter deladateàlaquelle ilaétéavisé delasuspension
del'importation, déposé auprès duTribunal delavilledeSofia unedemande desuspension delamise
enlibrecirculation desmarchandises, àtitredegarantie desonaction enjustice pouratteinte àses
droits.
6. Prière d'indiquer siledétenteur d'undroit esttenudepayer desredevances quelconques
pour présenter lademande.
L'article 74duprojet deloisurlesmarques etlesindications géographiques dispose queles
autorités douanières fixent lemontant delataxequiseraperçuepourlagarde desmarchandises faisant
l'objetdelasuspension, ainsiqueceluidelagarantie enespèces àdéposer pourrépondre dupréjudice
quel'importateur pourrait subir dufaitdelasuspension injustifiée delamiseenlibrecirculation de
sesmarchandises importées. Ledépôt degarantie enespèces estmisàladisposition desautorités
douanières.
7. Prière d'indiquer lesdispositions desloisetordonnances quiprescrivent la"procédure
conduisant àunedécision aufond" prévue àl'article 55del'Accord surlesADPIC. Veuillez
enrésumer lecontenu.
Laprocédure conduisant àunedécision aufondprévue àl'article 55del'Accord surlesADPIC
estengagée parledétenteur dudroitdevant leTribunal delavilledeSofia, aumoyen d'unedemande
visantàfaireconstaterl'atteinteàsesdroitsdepropriétéintellectuelle(article64delaLoisurlesbrevets,
article 51delaLoisurlesmarques defabrique oudecommerce etlesdessins etmodèles industriels
etarticle 51,paragraphe 1,alinéa 3,delaLoisurlaprotection desobtentions végétales etdesraces
animales).
L'atteinte àdesdroits depropriété intellectuelle peutaussifairel'objetd'unedécision prononcée
paruneautorité administrative. L'article 52delaLoisurlesmarques defabrique oudecommerce
etlesdessins etmodèles industriels etl'article 52delaLoisurlaprotection desobtentions végétales
etdesraces animales disposent queledétenteur dudroitsurl'objetenregistré peutdéposer unerequête
pouratteinte àsesdroits exclusifs depropriété intellectuelle. L'organe répressif administratif (Office
desbrevets ouMinistère del'agriculture) examine larequête etpeutdiligenter uneinspection. Si
l'inspection amène àconclure quelesgriefs énoncés danslarequête sontfondés, ilseradressé etsignifié
aucontrevenant unacteenvertu duquel lesmarchandises seront saisies etlaissées àlagarde d'un
dépositaire responsable. Surlabasedecetacte,ilserarendu uneordonnance pénale deconfiscation
auprofit del'Etatdesmarchandises portant atteinte auxdroits depropriété intellectuelle. L'ordonnance
pénale pourra fairel'objet d'unrecours devant letribunal régional dulieudel'infraction.
8. Prière d'indiquer laprocédure spécifique, lecaséchéant, àappliquer auxmarchandises
pourlesquelles iln'estpasévident qu'ellesportent ounonatteinte àdesDPI,prévue àl'article 55
del'Accord surlesADPIC.
Voirlaréponse àlaquestion 5.IP/C/W/91
Page4
9. Prière d'indiquer laresponsabilité quelesautorités compétentes etlesautres autorités
concernées prennent vis-à-vis desdétenteurs dedroits lorsqu 'ellesnesuspendent paslamiseen
libre circulation desmarchandises quiportent atteinte àdesDPI, dans lecasdelasuspension
fondée surlademande ousurl'action menée d'office prévue àl'article 58del'Accord surles
ADPIC.
Voirlaréponse àlaquestion 11.
10. Prière d'indiquer laresponsabilité quelesautorités compétentes etlesautres autorités
concernées prennent vis-à-vis desdétenteurs dedroits lorsqu 'ellesexaminent lesmarchandises
quiportent atteinte àdesDPIetqu'elleslesmettent néanmoins enlibre circulation, dans lecas
delasuspension fondée surlademande ousurl'action menée d'office prévue àl'article 58de
l'Accord surlesADPIC.
Voirlaréponse àlaquestion 11.
11. Prière d'indiquer laresponsabilité quelesautorités compétentes etlesautres autorités
concernées prennent vis-à-vis desimportateurs lorsqu 'ellessuspendent lamiseenlibrecirculation
desmarchandises quineportent pasatteinte àdesDPI, dans lecasdelasuspension fondée sur
lademande ousurl'action menée d'office prévue àl'article 58del'Accord surlesADPIC.
Lesdispositions delaLoisurlaresponsabilité del'Etatpourdommages causés auxcitoyens
sontapplicables danslescasvisés àlaquestion 9.L'Etatdoitindemniser lescitoyens dupréjudice
qu'ilspourraient subirdufaitd'actes, d'actions oud'omissions illégaux quecommettraient desservices
oudesfonctionnaires del'Etatdansl'exercice deleursattributions administratives. Lapersonne lésée
peutintenter uneaction endommages-intérêts devant letribunal dulieudel'infraction oudeson
domicile. L'article 5delaloisusmentionnée dispose quelesautorités etfonctionnaires del'Etatne
peuvent dégager leurresponsabilité quelorsque ledommage aétécausé parlafaute explicite dela
personne lésée.
12. Ledétenteur dudroitest-ilinformé del'identité desimportateurs etdesexpéditeurs lorsque
lesautorités compétentes "suspendent" lamiseenlibre circulation demarchandises quiportent
atteinte àdesDPI, ouquisontsoupçonnées d'yporter atteinte, comme dans lecas,prévu à
l'article 57del'Accord surlesADPIC, oùledétenteur dudroit estinformé del'identité des
importateurs etdesexpéditeurs?
L'article 75,paragraphe 1,duprojet deLoisurlesmarques etlesindications géographiques
dispose quelesautorités douanières doivent aviser l'importateur delasuspension del'importation des
marchandises, enluilaissant undélai deseptjours pourfaireopposition àcettemesure. S'ilfait
opposition danscedélai, ledétenteur dudroitsera,envertu desdispositions del'article 76duprojet
deloi,dûment informé dunometdel'adresse del'importateur, dulieud'origine etdelaqualité des
marchandises ainsiquedulieuoùellessontentreposées.
13. Prière d'indiquer lesmesures destinées àprotéger lesrenseignements confidentiels aucours
del'inspection prévue àl'article 57del'Accord surlesADPIC. Veuillez indiquer également les
dispositions desloisetordonnances quiprescrivent detelles mesures.
Lesdispositions del'article 14,paragraphe 4,delaLoisurlaprotection delaconcurrence
quiinterdisent expressément l'utilisation etladiffusion dessecrets commerciaux sontapplicables à
l'inspection prévue àl'article 57del'Accord surlesADPIC.IP/C/W/91
Page5
14. Prière d'indiquer lesprocédures derétention etdesaisie quelesautorités compétentes
peuvent ordonner surlabasedesarticles 51et55del'Accord surlesADPIC.
L'article 52delaLoisurlesmarques defabrique oudecommerce etlesdessins etmodèles
industriels dispose quelesmarchandises importées surlesquelles estapposée illicitement lamarque
d'untiersainsiquelesmarchandises fabriquées selon undessin oumodèle industriel d'unpaystiers,
enregistré enBulgarie, oulesproduits portant defausses appellations d'origine peuvent êtresaisis au
profit del'Etat.
Lesprocédures derétention etdesaisie quelesautorités compétentes peuvent ordonner sont
indiquées danslaréponse àlaquestion 7.
15. Prière d'indiquer lesprocédures d'appel detoute décision rendue parlesautorités
compétentes surlabasedesarticles 51et55del'Accord surlesADPIC.
Ladécision del'autorité douanière desaisir desmarchandises importées estunacteadministratif
quipeutfairel'objet d'unrecours devant letribunal régional dulieudelasaisie.
Ladécision duTribunal delavilledeSofia estsusceptible d'appel devant laCour suprême
delaRépublique deBulgarie. LaConstitution delaRépublique deBulgarie prévoit troisinstances
successives.
16. Prière d'indiquer labasedecalcul delacaution oudelagarantie équivalente prévue à
l'article 53del'Accord surlesADPIC quelesautorités compétentes peuvent exiger durequérant
lorsqu 'ellessuspendent lamiseenlibre circulation.
L'article 74duprojet deLoisurlesmarques etlesindications géographiques dispose queles
autorités douanières fixent lemontant delataxequiseraperçuependant ladurée delagarde des
marchandises, ainsi quecelui delagarantie enespèces àdéposer pourrépondre dupréjudice que
l'importateur pourrait subir dufaitdelasuspension injustifiée del'importation. Ledépôt degarantie
enespèces estmisàladisposition desautorités douanières. L'indemnité serafixée compte tenudu
type, delaqualité, delaquantité etdeladurabilité desmarchandises importées ainsiquedugainque
l'importateur aurait puréaliser silesmarchandises n'avaient pasétéretenues endouane.
Lorsque letribunal estsaisid'unedemande desuspension delamiseenlibrecirculation de
marchandises aumotif qu'ellesportent atteinte auxdroits depropriété intellectuelle d'untiers, ildoit
êtrerecouru àlaprocédure degarantie. Enpareil cas,ledemandeur dépose unegarantie enespèces
quiservira àindemniser ledéfendeur dupréjudice qu'ilpourrait subir dufaitdesmesures prises à
sonencontre.
17. Prière d'indiquer quipaiera lecoûtdelarétention fondée surl'article 51del'Accord
surlesADPIC oudeladestruction prévue àl'article 59dudit accord.
Lerequérant acquittera unetaxeinitiale pourlagarde desmarchandises retenues. Siletribunal
constate quelesmarchandises faisant l'objetdelasuspension portent atteinte àsesdroits depropriété
intellectuelle, ildécidera quidoitpayer lecoûtdelarétention.
18. Prière d'indiquer quels genres desituation sontconsidérés comme "descirconstances
exceptionnelles" dans lesquelles lesautorités compétentes peuvent autoriser laréexportation de
marchandises demarque contrefaites ausensdel'article 59del'Accord surlesADPIC.
Iln'yapasdepratique serapportant àdessituations decegenre.IP/C/W/91
Page6
19. Prière d'indiquer l'intitulé desloisetordonnances etleurs dispositions prescrivant la
suspension delamise enlibre circulation desmarchandises portant atteinte àdesDPI, ou
soupçonnées d'yporter atteinte, prévue àl'article 51del'Accord surlesADPIC.
Lesloisquiprévoient lasuspension delamiseenlibrecirculation desmarchandises portant
atteinte àdesDPI, ousoupçonnées d'yporter atteinte, sont: laLoisurlesmarques defabrique ou
decommerce etlesdessins etmodèles industriels etleCode deprocédure civile. Leurs dispositions
pertinentes sontindiquées ci-dessus danslesréponses auxquestions 14,15et16.
20. Prière d'indiquer quels DPIsontprotégés surlabasedelademande présentée parun
détenteur dedroit.
Selon l'article 52delaLoisurlesmarques defabrique oudecommerce etlesdessins etmodèles
industriels, lesDPIprotégés surlabasedelademande présentée parundétenteur dedroit sontles
droits surlesmarques defabrique oudecommerce, surlesdessins etmodèles industriels etsurles
appellations d'origine.
21. Prière d'indiquer lanature etlecontenu desdocuments quiseront fournis parlerequérant
pour présenter lademande.
Selon l'article 73,paragraphes 1et2,duprojet deLoisurlesmarques etindications
géographiques, lademande desuspension del'importation demarchandises doitêtreprésentée par
écritetcomporter unedescription détaillée desmarchandises pourlesquelles lasuspension estdemandée.
Doivent êtrejoints àlademande unecopie ducertificat d'enregistrement delamarque etundocument
attestant lavalidité del'enregistrement.
22. Prière d'indiquer lesmesures correctives qu'ordonnent lesautorités judiciaires encequi
concerne ledroit d'auteur etautres droits connexes, lesbrevets, lesmodèles etdessins industriels,
lesmarques defabrique oudecommerce etlesschémas deconfiguration (topographies) decircuits
intégrés, ycompris lesinjonctions, lesdommages-intérêts, lesfrais, ladestruction ouautre mise
horscircuit desmarchandises encause etdesmatériaux/instruments ayant serviàleurproduction.
LeCode pénal prévoit dessanctions pénales pourlescasdepiraterie dudroitd'auteur àéchelle
commerciale etd'usage illégal d'unemarque defabrique oudecommerce, d'unemarque deservice,
d'uneappellation d'origine oud'undessin oumodèle industriel [ou]decontrefa çondemarque.
Auxtermes desparagraphes 1et2del'article 172a)duCode pénal, letribunal peutprononcer
unepeine d'emprisonnement n'excédant pastroisanset/ou unpeine d'amende de1à3millions de
levapourlesatteintes audroitd'auteur ouauxdroits voisins. Encasderécidive, leparagraphe 3
dumême article prévoit unepeine d'emprisonnement d'unedurée deunàcinqanset/ou uneamende
de3à5millions deleva. Lorsque l'objet constitutif del'infraction appartient aucontrevenant, sa
confiscation auprofit del'Etatestobligatoire.
Dans lescasd'atteinte audroitd'auteur etauxdroits voisins, lesarticles 94et95delaLoi
surledroitd'auteur etlesdroits voisins disposent queletribunal peutordonner:
- laréparation despréjudices subis;
- lacessation del'usage illicite desdroits;IP/C/W/91
Page7
- lasaisie etladestruction descopies del'oeuvre produites illicitement, ycompris les
négatifs, copies maîtresses, formes d'imprimerie etautres éléments utilisés auxfins
delacopie;
- lasaisie etlamise horsservice dumatériel decopie etdereproduction utilisé
exclusivement pourcommettre lesinfractions;
- laréception desobjets visésàl'alinéa ci-dessus auprixcoûtant, cemontant étantdéduit
del'indemnité due.
Selon l'article 28delaLoisurlesbrevets, lorsque letribunal estsaisid'uneaction enatteinte
auxdroits relatifs àuneinvention ouunmodèle d'utilité enregistrés etquel'atteinte estconstatée, il
peutordonner:
- laréparation desdommages subis etdesbénéfices perdus;
- lacessation parleurauteur desactes portant atteinte auxdroits debrevet;
- lapublication dujugement dansdeuxquotidiens auxfraisdel'auteur del'atteinte;
- latransformation ouladestruction desarticles constitutifs del'atteinte;
- demême que,sil'atteinte aétécommise intentionnellement, latransformation oula
destruction desmoyens quiontservi àlacommettre.
Envertu duCode pénal, lesauteurs d'atteintes àdesDPIquifontillicitement usage d'une
marque defabrique oudecommerce, d'unemarque deservice, d'uneappellation d'origine oud'un
dessin oumodèle industriel peuvent fairel'objet depoursuites. Lesarticles 227et227a)duCode
pénal disposent qu'enpareil casletribunal peutprononcer unepeine d'emprisonnement detroismois
àunanet/ou unepeine d'amende maximum de1million deleva. Lorsque l'objet constitutif de
l'infraction appartient aucontrevenant, saconfiscation auprofit del'Etatestobligatoire.
L'article 52delaLoisurlesmarques defabrique oudecommerce etlesdessins etmodèles
industriels dispose que,danslecasoùilaétérendu uneordonnance pénale, lamunicipalité dulieu
del'infractionsaisiralesmarchandisesconstitutivesd'unecontrefaçondemarqueoudedessinoumodèle
industriel.
LaLoisurlaprotection desobtentions végétales etraces animales dispose que,danslecas
oùuneaction enjustice pouratteinte auxdroits estintentée envertu del'article 29,letribunal peut
ordonner:
- laréparation desdommages subis etdesbénéfices perdus;
- lacessation parleurauteur desactes portant atteinte auxdroits debrevet;
- encasd'exécution d'uneréglementation pénale envertu del'article 52,laconfiscation
desmarchandises contrefaites parlamunicipalité dulieudel'infraction etlaperception
parcelle-ci del'amende infligée.
23. Prièred'indiquersilemontantdesdommages-intérêtsquelesautoritésjudiciairesordonnent
àlapersonne quiaporté atteinte àdesDPIdeverser audétenteur dudroit constitue ounonuneIP/C/W/91
Page8
réparation adéquate dudommage subiparcedernier, ainsi quelescritères etlemode decalcul
utilisés pour fixer cemontant.
Letribunal fixeuneréparation adéquate dupréjudice causé audétenteur dudroit, correspondant
auxdommages subis etauxbénéfices perdus. Lesautorités judiciaires prennent aussienconsidération
legainqueledétenteur dudroit aurait puréaliser s'iln'yavaitpaseuatteinte àsondroit, oucelui
quel'auteur del'atteinte aréalisé.
24. Prièred'indiquersilemontantdesdommages-intérêtsquelesautoritésjudiciairesordonnent
àlapersonne quiaporté atteinte àdesDPIdeverser audétenteur dudroit inclut ounonles
frais d'enquête etleshonoraires d'avocat appropriés.
Lemontant desdommages-intérêts quelesautorités judiciaires ordonnent àlapersonne qui
aporté atteinte àdesDPIdeverser audétenteur dudroit peutinclure lesdépenses ainsi queles
honoraires d'avocat appropriés siledétenteur dudroitademandé desdommages-intérêts d'unmontant
correspondant.
25. Prière d'indiquer quelestlemontant desdommages-intérêts estimé parlestribunaux depuis
le1erjanvier 1996. Prière d'indiquer sicemontant constitue ounonuneréparation adéquate
dudommage subiparledétenteur dudroit, etenquoicesprocédures civiles sontcompatibles
avecl'article 45del'Accord surlesADPIC.
Voirlaréponse àlaquestion 23.
26. Prièred'indiquerlestypesetmontantsdespeines(emprisonnementouamendes)applicables
danslesaffairespénales.Prièred'indiquerégalementsicespeinessontcompatiblesavecl'article61
del'Accord surlesADPIC quiprescrit desdispositions suffisamment dissuasives, enrapport avec
leniveau despeines appliquées pour desdélits degravité correspondante.
LeCode pénal prévoit dessanctions pénales encasdepiratage dudroit d'auteur àéchelle
commerciale etd'usage illégal d'unemarque defabrique oudecommerce, d'unemarque deservice,
d'uneappellation d'origine oud'undessin oumodèle industriel.
Lesparagraphes 1et2del'article 172a)duCode pénal prévoient unepeine d'emprisonnement
n'excédant pastroisanset/ou unepeine d'amende de1à3millions delevapourlesatteintes audroit
d'auteur etauxdroits voisins. Encasderécidive, leparagraphe 3dumême article prévoit un
emprisonnement deunàcinqanset/ouuneamende de3à5millions deleva. Lorsque l'objetconstitutif
del'infraction appartient aucontrevenant, saconfiscation auprofit del'Etatestobligatoire.
Auxtermes desarticles 227et227a)duCode pénal (chapitre III,4ème partie), l'utilisation
demarques defabrique oudecommerce contrefaites estpunissable d'unepeine d'emprisonnement
detroismoisàcinqanset/ou d'uneamende d'unmontant maximum de1million deleva. Lorsque
l'objet constitutif del'infraction appartient aucontrevenant, saconfiscation auprofit del'Etatest
obligatoire.
Lespeines ci-dessus établies parleCode pénal sontconformes auxprescriptions del'article 61
del'Accord surlesADPIC etreprésentent desdispositions suffisamment dissuasives, enrapport avec
leniveau despeines appliquées pourdesdélits degravité correspondante.
| 1,915 | 23,053 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_SCM_13.pdf
|
R_G_SCM_13
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE G/SCM/13
3novembre 1997
DUCOMMERCE(97-4797)
Comité dessubventions etdes
mesures compensatoires
MODE DEPRESENTATION DESMISES AJOUR DENOTIFICATIONS AUTITRE
DEL'ARTICLE 8.3DEL'ACCORD SUR LESSUBVENTIONS
ETLESMESURES COMPENSATOIRES
Adopté parleComité le23octobre 1997
Règles générales
1. Pourchaque programme notifié autitredel'article 8.3del'Accord surlessubventions etles
mesures compensatoires, fournir touslesrenseignements pertinents indiqués ci-après.
2. Sil'aideaccordée danslecadre d'unprogramme notifié concerne desproduits oudessecteurs
spécifiques, structurer lamiseàjourdelanotification parproduit ouparsecteur.
3. S'iln'estpasdonné deréponse àunequestion, enindiquer lesraisons.
4. Pourrépondre auxquestions serapportant auxmodifications d'unprogramme notifié, utiliser
comme référence lanotification oulamiseàjourlaplusrécente concernant leditprogramme.
5. Si,pendant lapériode considérée, iln'yaeuaucune modification dutypeindiqué dansune
question, l'indiquer danslaréponse àcettequestion.
6. Ladateàlaquelle chaque notification annuelle demiseàjourdevra êtreprésentée estladate
anniversaire delanotification initiale.
7. Lesrenseignements statistiques communiqués danschaque miseàjourannuelle correspondront
àlapériode de12moislaplusrécente pourlaquelle desdonnées sontdisponibles (l'exercice budgétaire
duprogramme, parexemple) àladateàlaquelle lanotification doitêtreprésentée. Cette période sera
désignée parl'expression "année encours".
8. Tous lesarticles auxquels ilestfaitréférence dansleprésent document sontlesarticles de
l'Accord surlessubventions etlesmesures compensatoires.
9. Ainsi qu'ilestprévu dans lanotedebasdepage34serapportant àl'article 8.3,les
renseignements confidentiels, ycompris lesrenseignements commerciaux confidentiels, n'ontpasà
êtrecommuniqués autitredel'article 8.3.Pourprotéger laconfidentialité, lesrenseignements pourront,
lecaséchéant, êtrefournis surunebasequinepermette pasd'identifier lesbénéficiaires del'aide.
10. Riendansleprésent document neportera atteinte dequelque façonquecesoitaudroit des
autres Membres dedemander desrenseignements ausujetdecasindividuels desubventionnement dans
lecadre d'unprogramme notifié nin'affectera enquoiquecesoitl'obligation duMembre présentant
lanotification decommuniquer cesrenseignements, ainsiqu'ilestprévu auxarticles 8.3,25.8et25.9.G/SCM/13
Page2
11. Telqu'ilestutilisé dansleprésent document (parexemple auxpoints II.1a),III.1a)etIV.1a)),
leterme "approuvé" s'entend dumoment où,dansleprocessus administratif menant àl'octroi d'une
subvention,l'engagementfermedeverserunesubventionestprisparl'autoritéquiaccordelasubvention.
12. Dans lesdeuxanssuivant laréception delapremière notification decetype, leComité des
subventions etdesmesures compensatoires entreprendra unexamen decemode deprésentation, afin
d'yapporter toutes lesmodifications jugées nécessaires àlalumière del'expérience. Unefoisqu'il
auraachevé cetexamen, leComité devra décider demaintenir lemode deprésentation oudelemodifier.
I. POUR TOUS LESPROGRAMMES NOTIFIES AUTITRE DEL'ARTICLE 8.3
1. Préciser lesdatesdudébut etdelafindelapériode annuelle couverte parlamiseàjour(ci-après
dénommée "l'année couverte parlamiseàjour"), etledébut etlafindel'année encours (définie
aupoint 7desrègles générales ci-dessus), ainsiqueladatedelanotification initiale. Pourtousles
points concernant desmodifications apportées auprogramme (marqués d'unastérisque*), donner des
renseignements serapportant àl'année couverte parlamiseàjour.
Pour touslesautres points, concernant lesdonnées statistiques relatives auprogramme, les
renseignements serapporteront àl'année encours.
2. Donnerdesrenseignementssurl'ensembledesdépenseseffectuéesautitreduprogrammependant
l'année encours.
3.* Donner desdétails surtoute modification desobjectifs généraux del'aide, notamment, s'il
yalieu,desobjectifs sectoriels.
4.* Siunemodification, quelle qu'ellesoit,aétéapportée àlaloi,àlaréglementation et/ou àtout
autre instrument juridique autitredesquels l'aideestaccordée (ycompris l'adoption detoute loiou
réglementation et/ou detoutautre instrument juridique nouveaux), décrire etexpliquer lanature et
l'objet decettemodification. Communiquer également unecopie delaloi,delaréglementation ou
del'autre instrument juridique enquestion, enfaisant apparaître clairement lesparties dutexte qui
énoncent lesmodifications. Silesdocuments considérés nesontpasrédigés dansunelangue del'OMC,
donner unetraduction enanglais, enfrançaisouenespagnol i)desdispositions juridiques pertinentes
correspondant àlamodification etii)delatabledesmatières oudestitres deschapitres pertinents de
laloi,delaréglementation et/ou del'autre instrument juridique.
5.* Donner desdétails surtoute modification du(des)niveau(x) desautorités publiques assurant
lafourniture del'aideaccordée autitreduprogramme notifié, ycompris toute modification ducadre
institutionnel delamiseenoeuvre duprogramme et/ou durôledesentités nongouvernementales, le
caséchéant.
6.* Indiquer etexpliquer endétail toute modification desentités outypes d'entités, selon lecas,
branches deproduction, régions, etc.,pouvant bénéficier d'uneaideautitreduprogramme et/outoute
modification desprescriptions concernant ledroitdebénéficier del'aide, oudesprocédures àsuivre
pourdemanderuneaideautitreduprogramme.Communiquertouteladocumentationpertinentereflétant
cettemodification (brochures, formules dedemande d'aide, etc.), notamment touttexte récemment
adopté, quin'aurait pasdéjàétéfourni autitredupoint I.4.
7.* Donner desdétails surtoute modification desinstruments definancement, oudel'incidence
et/oudeladurée del'aideautitredechaque instrument (leterme "incidence", telqu'ilesticiemployé,
renvoie auxpersonnes auxquelles l'aideestfournie etàlamanière dontelleestfournie; c'est-à-dire
qu'ils'agitd'indiquer sil'aideestfournie auxproducteurs, auxexportateurs ouàd'autres personnes;G/SCM/13
Page3
parlebiaisdequelmécanisme; silemontant parunité estfixeouvariable etdanscedernier cas,
comment ilestdéterminé).
8.* Donner desdétails surtoute modification dumontant totaldel'aidebudgétisé autitredu
programme, et/ou deladated'expiration duprogramme oudesprojets financés àcetitre.
9.* Donner desdétails surtoute modification desarrangements concernant lasurveillance, la
vérification etl'évaluation duprogramme, ycompris lamiseenplace detelsarrangements.
II. POUR L'AIDE AUX ACTIVITES DERECHERCHE QUIAETENOTIFIEE
1. Pourl'année encours, recenser lesdomaines derecherche1visésparleprogramme (c'est-à-dire
lesdomaines derecherche indiqués danslanotification initiale autitredel'article 8.3,telsqu'ilsont
étéultérieurement modifiés danslecadre duprogramme) etendonner unedescription; et
a) indiquer pourchaque domaine derecherche:
1) lenombre deprojets bénéficiant d'uneaide; et
2) lenombre deprojets quiontétéapprouvés auxfinsd'octroi d'uneaide, maispour
lesquels lesversements n'ontpasencore étéeffectués;
b) pourchacune desdeux catégories ci-dessus etpourchaque domaine derecherche,
indiquer également:
1) lemontant moyen del'aideparprojet. Recenser eténumérer lescinqprojets qui
bénéficient del'aidelaplusimportante etindiquer, pourchacun d'eux,lemontant
del'aideetleniveau del'intensité del'aide. Sicescinqprojets absorbent moins de
25pourcentdesdépenses totales danslacatégorie ouledomaine derecherche visé,
fournir lemême typederenseignements pour lesprojets venant ensuite parordre
d'importance desmontants d'aidejusqu'àcequeleseuilde25pourcentsoitatteint,
sansmentionner plusdecinqprojets additionnels;
2) l'intensité moyenne del'aideparprojet, c'est-à-dire l'aideexprimée enpourcentage
descoûts pouvant êtreprisencompte. Recenser lescinqprojets pourlesquels les
niveaux d'intensité del'aidesontlesplusélevés etendresser lalisteenindiquant pour
chacun l'intensité etlemontant del'aide.
S'agissant despoints b)1)etb)2)ci-dessus, fournir desséries dedonnées distinctes poura)la
recherche industrielle; b)l'activité dedéveloppement préconcurrentielle; c)d'autres catégories devant
êtreprécisées, ycompris lesactivités quirelèvent àlafoisdelarecherche industrielle etdu
développement préconcurrentiel.
2.* Donner lesdétails detoute modification desarrangements contractuels, s'ilenexiste, dans
lecadre desquels larecherche estmenée.
1Siunseuldomaine derecherche estviséparleprogramme notifié, lesdonnées enquestion devraient être
communiquées pour leprogramme dans sonensemble.G/SCM/13
Page4
3.* Donner unedescription etuneexplication détaillées detoute modification intervenue dansla
structure et/ou lefonctionnement duprogramme, enindiquant, enparticulier:
a) toute modification deladescription technique desbutsspécifiques delarecherche,
delamanière dontcesactivités relèvent desdéfinitions dela"recherche industrielle"
etdel'"activité dedéveloppement préconcurrentielle" énoncées danslesnotes debas
depages 28et29serapportant àl'article 8.2a)et/ou durésultat finaldelarecherche
industrielle;
b) danslecasdelarecherche industrielle, toutemodification desnouvelles connaissances
recherchées et/ou desnouveaux produits, procédés ouservices, ouaméliorations de
produits, procédés ouservices, quidoivent êtremisaupoint enutilisant cesnouvelles
connaissances;
c) danslecasd'uneactivité dedéveloppement préconcurrentielle, toutemodification du
résultat finaldecetteactivité et/oudelamanière dontlesproduits, lignes deproduction,
procédés defabrication, services existants ouautres opérations encours seront affectés
dufaitdecetteactivité;
d) danslecasd'unprototype, toutchangement delamanière dontleprototype seramis
aupoint et/ou desmodifications quiseraient nécessaires pourqueleprototype puisse
êtreutilisé commercialement;
e) toute modification desmontants del'aideautorisés autitreduprogramme pour1)la
recherche industrielle et2)ledéveloppement préconcurrentiel, et/ou delaméthode
employée pourcalculer lescoûts decetterecherche/activité;
f) toute modification destypes spécifiques decoûts couverts parl'aide, delaméthode
employée pourcalculer cescoûts et/ou desmoyens parlesquels ilestfaitensorteque
l'aidesoitexclusivement limitée auxcoûts énumérés dans lespoints i)àv)de
l'article 8.2a);
g) toutemodification desmoyens parlesquels ilestfaitensortequel'aidenecouvre pas
davantage que75pourcentdescoûts delarecherche industrielle, 50pourcentdes
coûts del'activité dedéveloppement préconcurrentielle ou,danslessituations visées
parlanotedebasdepage30serapportant àl'article 8.2a),62,5pourcentdelasomme
decescoûts.
III. POUR L'AIDE AUX REGIONS DEFAVORISEES SURLETERRITOIRE D'UNMEMBRE
QUIAETENOTIFIEE
1. Enumérer lesrégions bénéficiant d'uneaidependant l'année encours etindiquer toute
modification decesrégions intervenue depuis ladernière notification/mise àjour, et
a) indiquer, pourchaque région:
1) lenombre deprojets bénéficiant d'uneaide;
2) lenombre deprojets quiontétéapprouvés auxfinsd'octroi d'uneaide, maispour
lesquels lesversements n'ontpasencore étéeffectués;G/SCM/13
Page5
b) pourchacune descatégories ci-dessus etpourchaque région, indiquer également:
1) le(s)plafond(s) del'aidepour chaque région, défini(s) enfonction ducoûtdes
investissements ouducoûtdelacréation d'emplois;
2) lemontant moyen del'aideparprojet. Recenser eténumérer lestroisprojets qui
bénéficient del'aidelaplusimportante etindiquer, pourchacun d'eux,lemontant
del'aide(défini enfonction ducoûtdesinvestissements ouducoûtdelacréation
d'emplois). Sicestroisprojets absorbent moins de25pourcentdesdépenses totales
danslacatégorie oularégion visée, fournir lemême typederenseignements pourles
projets venant ensuite parordre d'importance desmontants d'aidejusqu'àcequele
seuilde25pourcentsoitatteint, sansmentionner plusdetroisprojets additionnels;
3) l'intensité moyenne del'aideparprojet, c'est-à-dire l'aideexprimée enpourcentage
ducoûtréelouanticipé desinvestissements (telqu'ilestdéfini danslanotification
initiale outelqu'ilaétémodifié ultérieurement danslecadre duprogramme) ousous
laforme d'unmontant paremploi crééréelouanticipé, ainsi quelesniveaux de
l'intensité del'aideaccordée auxtroisprojets pourlesquels cesniveaux sontlesplus
élevés.
2.* Donner unedescription etuneexplication détaillées detoute modification intervenue dansla
structure et/ou lefonctionnement duprogramme, enindiquant, enparticulier:
a) toute modification desplafonds, définis enfonction ducoûtdesinvestissements ou
ducoûtdelacréation d'emplois, applicables aumontant del'aidequipeutêtreaccordée
enfaveur deprojets déterminés;
b) toute modification delaméthode employée pourcalculer lecoûtdesinvestissements
etlecoûtdelacréation d'emplois auxfinsd'application decesplafonds;
c) toute modification desmoyens parlesquels cesplafonds sontdifférenciés enfonction
desdifférents niveaux dedéveloppement desrégions aidées;
d) toutemodification desplafonds applicables auxdifférentes régions ayant droitàl'aide,
enconséquence d'unemodification dudegré relatif dedéveloppement dechacune des
régions aidées (indiquer lelienentre toute modification decegenre etlescritères en
vigueur ainsiquelesdonnées statistiques fournies auparagraphe 5);
e) toutemodification deslimites géographiques et/oudel'identité administrative detoute
région ayant droitàl'aide;
f) toute modification detoute disposition quiserait envigueur pouréviter l'utilisation
dominante d'unesubvention parcertaines entreprises oul'octroi àcertaines entreprises
demontants desubvention disproportionnés, ainsiqu'ilestprescrit àl'article 2;
g) toutemodification desmoyens parlesquels ilestfaitensortequelemontant del'aide
nedépasse paslesplafonds applicables.
3.* Décrire endétail toutemodification ducadre général dedéveloppement régional autitreduquel
l'aideestaccordée.G/SCM/13
Page6
4.* Décrire endétail toute modification descritères surlabasedesquels lesrégions aidées ont
étéconsidérées comme défavorisées, ycompris toutemodification dela(des)loi(s)/réglementation(s)
pertinente(s), dela(des) mesure(s) dudéveloppement économique incluse(s) danscescritères et/ou
delaméthode employée pourcalculer cette(ces)mesure(s).
5. Fournir lesdonnées statistiques serapportant àlapériode detroisanslaplusrécente ence
quiconcerne lescritères économiques pertinents quiontétéutilisés pourdéterminer quechaque région
aidée autitreduprogramme durant l'année encours étaitdéfavorisée.
6. Indiquer,pourl'annéeencours,lemontanttotaldel'aideaccordéeàchacunedesrégionsrelevant
duprogramme, enfaveur:
1) delacréation d'emplois, et/ou
2) del'investissement,
ainsique,pourchaque région concernée, leplafond del'aideetlenombre d'habitants.
7. Enutilisant laméthode décrite ci-dessus, choisir uneouplusieurs régions aidées, ouunou
plusieurs groupes comprenant toutes lesrégions visées parunplafond d'aidedonné etpourcesrégions
ougroupes derégions fournir desdonnées montrant quelarépartition del'aidependant l'année en
cours aétésuffisamment largeetégalepouréviter l'utilisation dominante d'unesubvention parcertaines
entreprises oul'octroi àcertaines entreprises demontants desubvention disproportionnés, ainsiqu'il
estprescrit àl'article 2.
Lechoix seraeffectué delafaçonsuivante: Choisir pourchaque miseàjourunnombre de
régions oudegroupes derégions suffisant pourque,entroisans,toutes lesrégions visées parle
programme aientétéincluses dansunenotification demiseàjour,donnant ainsiuneindication dela
non-spécificité (ausensdel'article 2)del'aidepourl'ensemble duprogramme. Dans lapremière
miseàjour,indiquer lesrégions ougroupes derégions pourlesquels lesplafonds d'aidesontlesplus
élevés, dansladeuxième miseàjourlesrégions ougroupes derégions venant endeuxième position
pourcequiestdesplafonds d'aide, etc.Lorsque toutes lesrégions auront étécouvertes parune
notification demiseàjour, onreviendra auxpremières.
IV. POUR L'AIDE VISANT APROMOUVOIR L'ADAPTATION D'INSTALLATIONS
EXISTANTES ADENOUVELLES PRESCRIPTIONS ENVIRONNEMENTALES QUIA
ETENOTIFIEE
1. a) Pourl'année encours, indiquer:
1) lenombre deprojets bénéficiant d'uneaide; et
2) lenombre deprojets quiontétéapprouvés auxfinsd'octroi d'uneaide, maispour
lesquels lesversements n'ontpasencore étéeffectués;
b) pourchacune desdeuxcatégories ci-dessus, indiquer également:
1) lemontant moyen del'aideparprojet. Recenser eténumérer lescinqprojets qui
bénéficient del'aidelaplusimportante etindiquer, pourchacun d'eux,lemontant
del'aideetleniveau del'intensité del'aide. Sicescinqprojets absorbent moins de
25pourcentdesdépenses totales danslacatégorie visée, fournir lemême typede
renseignements pourlesprojets venant ensuite parordre d'importance desmontantsG/SCM/13
Page7
d'aidejusqu'àcequeleseuilde25pourcentsoitatteint, sansmentionner plusdecinq
projets additionnels;
2) l'intensité moyenne del'aideparprojet, c'est-à-dire l'aideexprimée enpourcentage
descoûts pouvant êtreprisencompte. Recenser lescinqprojets pourlesquels les
niveaux d'intensité del'aidesontlesplusélevés etendresser lalisteenindiquant pour
chacun l'intensité etlemontant del'aide.
2.* Donner unedescription etuneexplication détaillées detoute modification intervenue dansla
structure et/ou lefonctionnement duprogramme, enindiquant, enparticulier:
a) toute modification desnouvelles prescriptions environnementales spécifiques autitre
desquelles l'aideestaccordée;
b) toute modification du(des) calendrier(s) fixé(s) pour l'application desnouvelles
prescriptions environnementales;
c) toute modification delabasesurlaquelle l'aideestaccordée (c'est-à-dire coûttotal
delaréduction desnuisances oudelapollution, ouphase déterminée del'application
desnouvelles prescriptions environnementales);
d) toute modification deladescription technique (ycompris toutaffinement d'une
description technique antérieure, plusgénérale) delafaçondontlesinstallations
existantes doivent être adaptées pour satisfaire auxnouvelles prescriptions
environnementales, et/outoutemodification delalistedesinstallations antérieurement
notifiées (point IIIf)dumodèle initial denotification);
e) toute modification delaloioudelaréglementation quiimpose lesnouvelles
prescriptions environnementales;
f) toutemodification desnuisances etdelapollution quelesprescriptions visent àréduire,
et/outoutemodificationdelamanièredontlesprescriptionsaboutirontàcetteréduction;
g) toute modification duniveau desautorités publiques auquel lesprescriptions sont
imposées;
h) toutemodification delamanière dontlesnouvelles prescriptions setraduiront pardes
contraintes plusimportantes etunecharge financière pluslourde pourlesentreprises;
i) toutemodification destypes spécifiques decoûts couverts parl'aideet/oudelaméthode
employée pourcalculer lecoûtdel'adaptation desinstallations existantes auxnouvelles
prescriptions environnementales;
j) toutemodification desmoyens parlesquels ilestfaitensortequel'aidesoitunemesure
ponctuelle, nonrécurrente, qu'ellesoitlimitée àl'adaptation desinstallations existantes,
qu'ellenecouvre pasplusque20pour centducoûtdel'adaptation, qu'ellesoit
directement liéeetproportionnée àlaréduction desnuisances etdelapollution prévue
paruneentreprise, etqu'ellenecouvre aucune deséconomies quipourraient être
réalisées surlescoûts defabrication.
| 1,569 | 18,965 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_SCM_N23EEC.pdf
|
Q_G_SCM_N23EEC
|
WORLD TRADE G/SCM/N/23/EEC
18February 1997
ORGANIZATION(97-0626)
Original: English Committee onSubsidies andCountervailing Measures
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT UNDER
ARTICLE 25.11 OFTHE AGREEMENT
EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES
Reproduced herewith isthesemi-annual report submitted bytheEuropean Communities for
theperiod 1July-31 December 1996.
_______________G/SCM/N/23/EEC
Page2SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT OFCOUNTERVAILING DUTY ACTIONS
(Fortheperiod 1July1996-31 December 1996)
Country Product Initiation Provisional
measuresFinal measures Nofinalmeasures
Trade
volumeSubsidized
Imports
as%of
domestic
consumptionDefinitive
dutyUndertaking No
subsidyNo
injuryCase
withdrawn Other
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Norway Farmed Atlantic salmon 31.08.96 - - - - - - - $1,000
million167%
Turkey Polyester fibres and
polyester yarns21.09.96
(Review)- - - - - - - $80million28%
1Total trade volume subject toinvestigation.
2Total trade volume subject toCVD measures.G/SCM/N/23/EEC
Page3
REVOCATION OFCOUNTERVAILING MEASURES
(Fortheperiod 1July1996-31 December 1996)
NIL
COUNTERVAILING DUTY MEASURES INFORCE ASAT31DECEMBER 1996
Country Product Dateoffinding
Turkey Polyester fibres andyarns 28.09.91 (Undertaking)
Thailand Ballbearings ofupto30mm
outside diameter02.05.95 (Undertaking)*
22.05.95 (Definitive countervailing duty
onindirect imports)*
* Amendments following reviews. Original finding 13June1990.
| 156 | 1,371 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_DS_190-1.pdf
|
Q_WT_DS_190-1
|
WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONWT/DS190/1
11 February 2000
(00-0620)
Original: English
ARGENTINA - TRANSITIONAL SAFEGUARD MEASURES
ON CERTAIN IMPORTS OF
WOVEN FABRICS OF COTTON AND COTTON MIXTURES ORIGINATING IN BRAZIL
Request for the Establishment of a Panel by Brazil
The following communication, dated 11 February 2000, from the Permanent Mission of
Brazil to the Chairman of the Dispute Settlement Body, is circulated pursuant to Article 6.2 of the
DSU.
_______________
Upon instructions from my authorities, I woul d like to request the establishment of a panel
pursuant to Article XXIII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (GATT 1994),Article 6 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedur es Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU)
and Article 8 of the Agreement on Textiles and Clothing (ATC) with respect to transitional safeguard
measures established by Argentina, under Article 6 of the ATC, on certain imports of woven fabrics
of cotton and cotton mixtures originating in Brazil.
The measures at issue are the transitional safeguards applied as of 31 July 1999 through
Resolution MEyOSP 861/99 of the Ministry of the Economy and Public Works and Services ofArgentina. The resolution was dated 13 July 1999 and was published on 16 July 1999.
The transitional safeguard measures were applied against five categories or groups of
categories of textile imports from Brazil (c ategories 218, 219/220, 224, 313/317 and 613/617/627).
The Argentine system of categories was notified by Argentina in document WT/L/276. Specificproduct coverage for the transitional safeguard measures against imports from Brazil was stipulated in
Resolution MEyOSP 861/99.
On 29 July 1999, Argentina requested consultations with Brazil pursuant to Article 6.11 of
the ATC. Consultations were held in Geneva, on 8 September 1999, at which time it was not possibleto reach a mutually-agreed solution. On 20 September 1999, Brazil notified the Textiles Monitoring
Body (TMB) of the results of the consultations and referred the issue to the TMB in accordance with
Article 6.11 of the ATC.
At its meeting of 18-22 October 1999, the TMB conducted a review of the measures
implemented by Argentina, having recommended that Argentina rescind the transitional safeguards
applied against the imports of the five categories or groups of categories of textile products
originating in Brazil (see document WT/TMB/20).
On 29 November 1999, Argentina notified the TMB that it considered itself unable to
conform to the recommendations of the TMB, in accordance with Article 8.10 of the ATC.
./.WT/DS190/1
Page 2
At its meeting of 13-14 December 1999, the TMB conducted a review of the reasons given by
Argentina and recommended that Argentina reconsider its position and rescind forthwith the
transitional safeguards applied against the imports of the five categories or groups of categories of
textile products originating in Brazil (see document WT/TMB/21).
In spite of the above-mentioned TMB recommendations, the matter remains unresolved.Brazil is of the view that the transitional safeguards applied by Argentina on imports of
products of categories 218, 219/220, 224, 313/317 and 613/617/627 are inconsistent with the
obligations of Argentina under Articles 2, 6 and 8 of the ATC; more specifically with Article 2.4,
Article 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.7, 6.8 and 6.11, and Article 8.9 and 8.10 of the ATC, and should, therefore,
be rescinded forthwith. Brazil also considers that the transitional safeguards nullify or impair benefits
accruing, directly or indirectly, to Brazil under the WTO Agreement, including the GATT 1994 andthe ATC.
Brazil requests that the panel consider and find that:1. The transitional safeguards introduced by Argentina are inconsistent with the above-
mentioned paragraphs of Articles 2, 6 and 8 of the ATC;
2. The measures in question nullify or impair benefits accruing, directly or indirectly, to
Brazil under the WTO Agreement, including the GATT 1994 and the ATC;
3. The Government of Argentina should rescind the measures forthwith.
Brazil requests that the panel to examine the matter be established with standard terms of
reference, in accordance with Article 7 of the DSU.
Brazil requests that this request for the establishment of a panel be inscribed in the agenda for
the meeting of the Dispute Settlement Body to be held on 24 February 2000.
__________
| 680 | 4,385 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_Jobs_Ext03_103.pdf
|
Q_Jobs_Ext03_103
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/R_IP_C_W178.pdf
|
R_IP_C_W178
|
RESTRICTEDORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEIP/C/W/178
24 mai 2000
(00-2105)
Conseil des aspects des droits de propriété
intellectuelle qui touchent au commerceOriginal: anglais
EXAMEN DE LA LÉGISLATION
Questions posées par les Communautés européennes et leurs États membres
Par une communication de sa Délégation permanente datée du 22 mai 2000, la Commission
européenne a fait parvenir au Secrétariat les questions suivantes qui s'adressent à Hong Kong, Chine;
Israël; Macao, Chine; et Trinité-et-Tobago.
_______________
HONG KONG, CHINE
A. DROIT D 'AUTEUR ET DROITS CONNEXES
1. Le paragraphe 11.0 du document IP/N/1/HKG/Add.1 explique que l'article 11 de l'Accord sur
les ADPIC a été mis en œuvre, en ce qui concerne les programmes d'ordinateurs, par les dispositions
de la section 22 1) c) et la section 25 de l'Ordonnance sur le droit d'auteur, mais que les dispositions
de l'article 11 n'ont pas été étendues aux films en raison de l'absence de problèmes à large échelle
résultant de la réalisation de la copie de films en location. Veuillez indiquer l'examen auquel ont été
soumises les contrefaçons de films pour savoir qu'il n'y a pas eu de copies réalisées à partir de filmsen location.
2. La section 65 de l'Ordonnance sur le droit d'aute ur stipule que, "nonobstant la section 23, il
n'y a pas infraction au droit d'auteur existant dans une œuvre, du fait de la réalisation d'une copie
éphémère et accessoire qui est techniquement nécessaire pour qu'un particulier, à qui la copie est
rendue accessible, puisse regarder ou écouter l'œuvre". Il convient de noter cependant qu'il n'estprécisé en aucun endroit de la section 23 que la copie de l'œuvre, qui est rendue accessible au public,
doive être une copie autorisée. Veuillez expliquer comment la section 65 est compatible avec
l'article 13 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC, dans la mesure où le fait de justifier du point de vue juridique
les copies éphémères et accessoires d'une œuvre, rendues accessibles au public sans autorisation,
constituerait cette infraction.
3. En ce qui concerne l'article 7 de l'Ordonnance sur le droit d'auteur et l'article 14.2 de l'Accord
sur les ADPIC, Hong Kong, Chine pourrait-il confirmer qu'un droit d'auteur peut exister dans
l'enregistrement sonore de la bande-son d'un film?
4. Hong Kong, Chine, pourrait-il expliquer comment la section 43 de l'Ordonnance sur le droit
d'auteur est compatible avec l'article 13 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC, dans la mesure où elle disposeque l'auditoire d'une exécution donnée dans un établissement éducatif peut être large et se composer,
non seulement des enseignants et des élèves de l'établissement (c'est-à-dire les personnes ayant un lien
direct avec les activités éducatives de l'établissement), mais aussi des parents et des surveillants desIP/C/W/178
Page 2
élèves? En particulier, lorsqu'il est perçu un droit pour l'exécution d'œuvres devant un tel auditoire,
les auteurs de ces œuvres se verraient-ils refuser une part des recettes?
B. INDICATIONS GÉOGRAPHIQUES
5. Les paragraphes 22.1.0 et 22.1.1 du document IP/N/1/HKG/2/Add.1 précisent qu'une
indication géographique peut faire l'objet d'une de mande au même titre qu'une marque de fabrique ou
de commerce ordinaire. Veuillez expliquer comment il convient d'interpréter cette disposition au
regard de la section 9 1) d) de l'Ordonnance sur les marques (TMO).
6. Veuillez préciser si l'opposition à l'enregistrement d'une marque de fabrique ou de commerce
contenant une indication géographique peut se faire uniquement par le biais de la section 12 1) de
l'Ordonnance sur les marques, ou si le Directeur de l'enregistrement est habilité ex officio à refuser ou
invalider une telle marque sur la base de la section 9 1) d) de cette ordonnance.
7. Veuillez apporter des éclaircissements sur la section 64 4) de l'Ordonnance sur les marques et
citer, s'il y a lieu, des exemples de dénominations géographiques dont l'utilisation a été autorisée
malgré l'existence d'une marque de certification.
8. Veuillez indiquer si la section 12 1) de l'Ordonnance sur les marques de fabrique ou de
commerce prévoit une protection additionnelle, conformément à l'article 23 de l'Accord sur les
ADPIC.
9. Veuillez citer des exemples, le cas échéant, de conditions ou de limitations imposées par le
Directeur de l'enregistrement ou par le tribunal, en application de la section 22 de l'Ordonnance sur les
marques de fabrique ou de commerce, en cas d'homonymie de signes.IP/C/W/178
Page 3
ISRAËL
A. DROIT D 'AUTEUR ET DROITS CONNEXES
1. Le droit d'auteur existe-t-il dans un programme d'ordinateur au même titre que dans des
œuvres littéraires? Veuillez indiquer sur quelles dispositions de la législation notifiée se fonde la
réponse.
2. Quel est le statut juridique des différents documents notifiés comme formant le régime du
droit d'auteur d'Israël? Sont-ils tous contraignants sur le plan juridique et les lois récentes
prévalent-elles sur les dispositions plus anciennes en cas d'incompatibilité?
3. Veuillez fournir des exemples récents de sanctions pénales demandées pour infraction au
droit d'auteur.
4. La législation israélienne prévoit-elle des sanctions pénales à l'encontre des parties qui
utilisent, en connaissance de cause, des reproductions illégales de logiciels? Dans la négative,
pourquoi? Dans l'affirmative, au titre de quelles dispositions réglementaires?
5. Les dommages-intérêts forfaitaires pour infraction au droit d'auteur, demandés par la Cour
Suprême, sont-ils calculés sur la base de la copie ou du titre? S'ils le sont sur la base du titre,comment ceci dissuade-t-il la réalisation de contrefaçons à une échelle commerciale?
6. Les dommages-intérêts et les sanctions demandés pour infraction au droit d'auteur
représentent-ils une réparation adéquate et un moyen de dissuasion contre toutes infractions
ultérieures? Veuillez citer des exemples récents de dommages-intérêts ou de sanctions, demandés par
les tribunaux, qui répondent à ces exigences.
7. L'Ordonnance 5760-1999 sur le droit d'auteur (Accord sur les ADPIC) s'applique-t-elle aux
enregistrements sonores et aux autres œuvres créés avant le 1
er janvier 2000?
8. L'article 5 de l'Ordonnance sur le droit d'auteur (Accord sur les ADPIC) peut-il être utilisé
pour réduire la durée de protection à des niveaux inférieurs à ce qui est prescrit à l'article 2 de
l'Accord sur les ADPIC? Quel est l'objet et le fondement juridique de cet article?
B. MARQUES DE FABRIQUE OU DE COMMERCE
9. Les détenteurs de marques de fabrique ou de commerce disposent-ils, dans le cadre de la loi
israélienne, de moyens juridiques d'empêcher l'utilisation, sans autorisation, de signes identiques ou
similaires pour des produits ou des services qui sont similaires à ceux pour lesquels la marque de
fabrique ou de commerce est enregistrée? Dans l'affirmative, en vertu de quelles dispositions?
10. Veuillez expliquer la signification de l'expression "nouveau ou original" aux articles 30 1) et
31 a) de l'Ordonnance.
C. DESSINS ET MODÈLES INDUSTRIELS
11. Comment le droit d'empêcher la fabrication, la vente ou l'importation d'articles, sans
autorisation et portant un dessin protégé, est-il assuré dans le cadre de la législation israélienne?IP/C/W/178
Page 4
D. BREVETS
12. Veuillez indiquer si dans votre législation, sur le brevet ou autre, il est possible de jouir de
droits de brevet sans aucune exclusion. S'il est prévu des exclusions, veuillez décrire en détail
comment elles sont appliquées sur les plans juridique et pratique.
13. Veuillez préciser si les végétaux, les animaux et les procédés essentiellement biologiques sont
exclus de la brevetabilité dans votre législation. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez indiquer la partie
pertinente de votre législation et expliquer sa formulation.
14. Veuillez indiquer comment votre législation protège les détenteurs de droits de brevets contre
l'importation et l'offre à la vente d'une invention brevetée.
15. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation prévoit des exceptions limitées aux droits exclusifs
conférés par un brevet. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez citer la législation pertinente.
16. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation garantit explicitement qu'un candidat utilisateur
s'est efforcé d'obtenir l'autorisation du détenteur du droit, suivant des conditions et modalités
commerciales raisonnables et que ces efforts n'ont pas abouti dans un délai raisonnable. Dans ce
contexte, comment définissez-vous l'expression "délai raisonnable"? Veuillez expliquer, par ailleurs,
comment votre législation garantit que l'utilisation d'une licence obligatoire est autorisée
principalement pour l'approvisionnement du marché intérieur du Membre qui a autorisé cetteutilisation.
17. Veuillez préciser comment votre législation assure la protection renforcée des brevets, ou
demandes de brevet, qui étaient en suspens au 1
er janvier 1995.
18. Veuillez indiquer comment votre législation a prévu le renversement de la charge de la preuve
en ce qui concerne les brevets de procédé.
19. En ce qui concerne la définition de l'exploitation d'une invention, à l'article 1 de la Loi sur les
brevets, veuillez indiquer si celle-ci englobe l'acte de fabrication ainsi qu'il est prescrit à
l'article 28.1 a) de l'Accord sur les ADPIC?
E. PROTECTION DES RENSEIGNEMENTS NON DIVULGUÉS
20. Comment la protection des renseignements non divulgués est-elle assurée en Israël?
F. MOYENS DE FAIRE RESPECTER LES DROITS
21. Quelles sont les prescriptions imposées à un plaignant pour la constitution d'une caution ou
d'une garantie, dans les affaires relatives aux brevets?
22. Quelles sont les prescriptions imposées par les tribunaux israéliens, concernant les éléments
de preuve nécessaires pour délivrer les ordonnances aux fins de sauvegarder les éléments de preuve
pertinents?IP/C/W/178
Page 5
MACAO, CHINE
A. DROIT D 'AUTEUR ET DROITS CONNEXES
1. Sur quelles dispositions de l'Accord sur les APDIC se fondent les limitations ou exceptions
aux droits des cessionnaires de droits d'auteur, figurant au chapitre V du Décret sur le droit d'auteur,
en particulier ainsi qu'il est prescrit aux articles 36 et 38?
2. Qu'entend-on par l'expression "réciprocité matérielle" à l'article 50 du Décret sur le droit
d'auteur?
3. Quelles sont les limitations de l'exception pour usage personnel (article 6 du Décret sur le
droit d'auteur) qui empêchent que celles-ci ne soient incompatibles avec l'exploitation normale de
l'œuvre, ni ne causent un préjudice injustifié aux intérêts légitimes du détenteur du droit?
4. Quelle est la signification de l'expression "qu'il réside ou non sur le territoire" au sens de
l'article 175 du Décret sur le droit d'auteur, en ce qui concerne la présomption de consentement?
5. L'article 179 du Décret sur le droit d'auteur semble établir la présomption selon laquelle la
radiodiffusion autorisée d'une exécution peut être enregistrée et reproduite sans le consentement de
l'artiste interprète ou exécutant. Veuillez confirmer si cette interprétation est correcte et, dansl'affirmative, indiquer comment l'article 14.1 de l' Accord sur les ADPIC s'applique dans ce contexte.
6. Dans quelles circonstances la saisie et la confiscation des produits contrefaits sont-elles
possibles, dans le cadre de la législation de Macao, Chine et quelles dispositions juridiques régissent
ces procédures?
B. M
ARQUES DE FABRIQUE OU DE COMMERCE
7. Veuillez donner la définition d'un signe selon votre législation nationale et préciser dans
quelles conditions il peut faire l'objet d'une protection.
8. Veuillez confirmer si les services sont un objet de protection dans votre Loi sur les marques
de fabrique ou de commerce. Veuillez confirmer si des signes comme les dénominations
commerciales peuvent faire l'objet d'une protection. Veuillez préciser si des éléments comme lessons, les parfums et les emballages peuvent aussi en bénéficier.
9. Veuillez indiquer quelles sont les obligations d'usage prévues, le cas échéant, comme
condition de l'enregistrement d'une marque de fabrique ou de commerce. À cet égard, veuillez
également préciser la définition de l'usage et les conditions de maintien de l'enregistrement.
10. Veuillez confirmer si, en vertu de votre législation, l'enregistrement des marques de fabrique
ou de commerce peut être indéfiniment renouvelé?
11. Veuillez décrire les obligations spéciales, s'il y a lieu, prévues par votre législation concernant
l'usage d'une marque de fabrique ou de commerce.
C. I
NDICATIONS GÉOGRAPHIQUES
12. Veuillez indiquer si l'autorité responsable de l'enregistrement des marques de fabrique ou de
commerce peut refuser une demande d'enregistrement si la marque de fabrique ou de commerce
contient une indication géographique.IP/C/W/178
Page 6
13. Veuillez préciser la définition d'une indication géographique dans votre législation.
14. Veuillez décrire et expliquer les dispositions de votre législation qui établissent un lien, le cas
échéant, entre les caractéristiques d'une indication et son origine géographique.
15. Veuillez indiquer si et comment une protection additionnelle est accordée par votre législation
aux vins et aux spiritueux. Veuillez indiquer d'autres types de produits, s'il y a lieu, qui en bénéficientégalement.
16. Veuillez expliquer comment les exceptions au ti tre de l'article 24 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC
sont utilisées dans votre juridiction. Veuillez fournir des exemples d'application de ces exceptions par
les tribunaux ou des listes de dénominations considérées comme génériques dans votre juridiction.
D. D
ESSINS ET MODÈLES INDUSTRIELS
17. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation étend la protection aux dessins et modèles dictés
essentiellement par des considérations techniques ou fonctionnelles. Veuillez préciser comment lesdessins et modèles sur les textiles sont protégés.
18. Veuillez indiquer comment votre législation protège les détenteurs du droit afférent à un
dessin ou à un modèle, contre l'importation d'articles portant ou comportant un dessin ou un modèle
qui est une copie.
19. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation prévoit le droit de délivrer une licence obligatoire pour
les dessins et modèles industriels.
20. Veuillez spécifier quelle est la durée de la protection offerte aux dessins et modèles
industriels dans votre législation.
21. Veuillez expliquer la définition que donne votre législation des notions suivantes: nouveauté,
inventivité et application industrielle.
E. B
REVETS
22. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation, sur les brevets ou autre, prévoit la possibilité de jouir de
droits de brevets sans aucune exclusion. S'il existe des exclusions, veuillez indiquer avec précision
comment elles sont appliquées d'un poi nt de vue juridique et pratique.
23. Veuillez indiquer si, dans votre législation, des inventions peuvent être exclues de la
brevetabilité pour des raisons d'ordre public ou de moralité. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez expliquer la
partie pertinente de votre législation ainsi que sa formulation. Préciser également si celle-ci a été
appliquée dans la pratique.
24. Veuillez indiquer si les méthodes diagnostiques, thérapeutiques et chirurgicales sont exclues
de la brevetabilité dans votre législation. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez expliquer la partie pertinente de
votre législation, ainsi que sa formulation.
25. Veuillez préciser si les végétaux, les animaux et les procédés essentiellement biologiques sont
exclus de la brevetabilité dans votre législation. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez expliquer la partie
pertinente de votre législation ainsi que sa formulation.IP/C/W/178
Page 7
26. Veuillez décrire comment les micro-organismes, les procédés non essentiellement
biologiques, les procédés microbiologiques et les variétés végétales sont protégés dans votre
législation. Veuillez expliquer à cet égard les parties pertinentes de votre législation.
27. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation protège les détenteurs d'un droit de brevet de
l'importation et de l'offre à la vente d'une invention brevetée.
28. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation prévoit une protection par brevet pour les produits
pharmaceutiques et les produits chimiques pour l'agriculture. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez spécifier le
texte de loi auquel il est fait référence.
29. Veuillez préciser si la protection d'un procédé par brevet, ainsi qu'elle est prévue par votre
législation, vise le produit obtenu directement par ce procédé.
30. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation prévoit, le cas échéant, des conditions additionnelles
autres que la divulgation suffisamment claire et complète de l'invention, stipulée à l'article 29 del'Accord sur les ADPIC (par exemple, la production d'une justification permettant l'accès à des
matériels génétiques ou le consentement éclairé préalable à l'utilisation). S'il est prévu des conditions
additionnelles de ce type, veuillez indiquer la législation pertinente et décrire ces conditions en détail.
31. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation prévoit des exceptions limitées aux droits exclusifs
conférés par un brevet. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez citer la législation pertinente.
32. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation prévoit un régime de licence obligatoire. Dans
l'affirmative, veuillez préciser les conditions dans lesquelles une licence obligatoire peut être
accordée. Veuillez indiquer en particulier comment sont examinées les conditions propres à cette
utilisation, aux fins de son autorisation.
33. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation garantit explicitement qu'un candidat utilisateur
s'est efforcé d'obtenir l'autorisation du détenteur du droit, suivant des conditions et modalités
commerciales raisonnables et que ces efforts n'ont pas abouti dans un délai raisonnable. Dans ce
contexte, comment définissez-vous l'expression "délai raisonnable"? Veuillez par ailleurs préciser
comment votre législation garantit que l'utilisation d'une licence obligatoire est autorisée
principalement pour l'approvisionnement du marché intérieur du Membre qui a autorisé cetteutilisation.
34. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation accorde une protection additionnelle aux innovations,
après l'expiration de la période de 20 ans pendant laquelle la protection par brevet est conférée.
35. Veuillez préciser comment votre législation assure la protection renforcée pour les brevets ou
demandes de brevets qui étaient en suspens au 1
er janvier 1995.
36. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation prévoit le renversement de la charge de la
preuve pour les brevets de procédé.
F. SCHÉMAS DE CONFIGURATION (TOPOGRAPHIES ) DE CIRCUITS INTÉGRÉS
37. Veuillez préciser comment votre législation protège les topographies.
38. Veuillez expliquer de quelle manière votre législation nationale protège les détenteurs d'un
droit contre l'importation, la vente ou la distribution illégale, à des fins commerciales, de
topographies, notamment les circuits intégrés ou autres articles dans lesquels une topographie estincorporée, conformément à l'article 36 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC.IP/C/W/178
Page 8
39. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation institue la dérogation aux dispositions de
l'article 36, spécifiée à l'article 37 de l'Accord su r les ADPIC, dans le cas où une personne ne savait
pas ou n'avait pas de raisons valables de savoir, en faisant l'acquisition d'un circuit intégré ou d'un
article l'incorporant, qu'il contenait une topographie illicite.
40. Veuillez indiquer la durée de la protection conférée aux topographies par votre législation.
G. PROTECTION DES RENSEIGNEMENTS NON DIVULGUÉS
41. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation prévoit une durée de protection définie pour les
renseignements non divulgués. Dans l'affirmative, précisez cette durée.
42. Veuillez indiquer comment votre législation définit l'expression "renseignements non
divulgués".
43. Veuillez indiquer comment votre législation définit les données communiquées aux pouvoirs
publics ou à leurs organismes.IP/C/W/178
Page 9
TRINITÉ-ET-TOBAGO
A. DROIT D 'AUTEUR ET DROITS CONNEXES
1. Veuillez expliquer comment les œuvres cinématographiques sont protégées, indiquez les
droits exclusifs conférés, la durée de la protection accordée ainsi que les limitations et exceptions aux
droits exclusifs.
2. Comment Trinité-et-Tobago justifie-t-il la durée de la protection accordée aux œuvres
collectives dont il est question à la section 19 3) de la Loi de 1997 sur le droit d'auteur, au regard de
l'article 9 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC et de l'article 7 de la Convention de Berne?
3. Comment Trinité-et-Tobago justifie-t-il la durée de la protection accordée aux œuvres
audiovisuelles dont il est question à la section 19 3) de la Loi de 1997 sur le droit d'auteur, au regard
de l'article 9 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC et de l'article 7 de la Convention de Berne?
B. MARQUES DE FABRIQUE OU DE COMMERCE
4. Veuillez préciser la définition d'un signe selon votre législation nationale et expliquer dans
quelles conditions il peut faire l'objet d'une protection.
5. Veuillez citer un exemple de la manière dont la définition des termes "emballage" et "forme"
est traitée dans l'enregistrement d'une marque de fabrique ou de commerce, selon la section 2 de la
Loi sur les marques de fabrique ou de commerce et la section 3 a) i) de la Loi de 1997 sur les marques
de fabrique ou de commerce qui la modifie.
6. Veuillez préciser si l'expression "représentation visuelle", mentionnée à la section 4 b) de la
Loi de 1994 sur les marques de fabrique ou de commerce qui modifie et remplace la section 2 2) de la
Loi sur les marques de fabrique ou de commerce, établit comme condition d'enregistrement que les
signes soient perceptibles visuellement.
7. Veuillez indiquer si l'usage constitue une prescription en matière d'enregistrement d'une
marque de fabrique ou de commerce dans votre législation, conformément à la section 10 3) de la Loisur les marques de fabrique ou de commerce.
C. I
NDICATIONS GÉOGRAPHIQUES
8. Veuillez citer des exemples de produits naturels ou artisanaux visés par la définition donnée à
la partie I, section 2, paragraphe 4 de la Loi de 1996 sur les indications géographiques.
9. Veuillez citer des dispositions de votre législation qui permettent d'invoquer des actes de
concurrence déloyale au sens de la partie II, section 3 b) de la Loi de 1996 sur les indications
géographiques.
10. Veuillez donner des exemples, s'il y a lieu, d'indications qui ont été jugées contraires à la
moralité, en vertu de la partie II, section 5 b) de la Loi de 1996 sur les indications géographiques.
11. Veuillez préciser comment les expressions "en connaissance de cause" et "avec intention"
sont définies à la partie II, section 7 de la Loi de 1996 sur les indications géographiques, ou comment
elle sont interprétées dans la jurisprudence.IP/C/W/178
Page 10
12. Veuillez indiquer comment les groupements de consommateurs et les autorités compétentes
(partie III, section 8 2) b) et c)) sont habilités à déposer une demande d'enregistrement.
13. Veuillez définir l'expression "personne intéressée" selon la partie III, section 10 2) b) de la
Loi de 1996 sur les indications géographiques.
14. Veuillez donner la définition de l'expression "appellation d'origine" selon la partie III,
section 12 1) b) de la Loi de 1996 sur les indications géographiques. Veuillez préciser s'il existe une
différence avec l'indication géographique, selon la partie III, section 12 1) a) de la Loi de 1996 sur les
indications géographiques.
15. Veuillez préciser si la procédure d'opposition énoncée à la partie II, section 15 de la
réglementation de 1996 sur les indications géographiques, peut être contestée après rectification par
un tribunal au titre de la partie III, section 12 1) b) de la Loi de 1996 sur les indications géographiques
et la partie II, section 17 3) de la réglementation de 1996 sur les indications géographiques.
16. Veuillez indiquer comment les exceptions au titre de la partie IV, section 19 de la Loi de 1996
sur les indications géographiques, sont traitées dans votre juridiction. Veuillez fournir des exemples
d'exceptions appliquées par les tribunaux ou des listes de dénominations considérées comme des
termes usuels du langage courant, selon la partie IV section 19 3) de la Loi de 1996 sur les indications
géographiques.
D. DESSINS ET MODÈLES INDUSTRIELS
17. Veuillez citer des exemples ou préciser la définition des parties de dessins et modèles
industriels qui servent uniquement à obtenir un résultat technique et qui ont, par conséquent, été
exclus de la protection accordée au titre de la section 3 2) de la Loi de 1996 sur les dessins et modèles
industriels.
18. Veuillez préciser par quelles dispositions législatives, si ce n'est par la Loi de 1996 sur les
dessins et modèles industriels et comment, sont protégés les dessins et modèles sur les textiles.
19. Veuillez donner des exemples, s'il y a lieu, de dessins et modèles industriels qui ont été jugés
contraires à l'ordre public ou à la moralité et qui ne remplissent donc pas les conditions
d'enregistrement, selon la section 4 4) de la Loi de 1996 sur les dessins et modèles industriels.
20. Veuillez indiquer, dans ce contexte, s'il existe dans votre législation des dispositions qui
pourraient prévoir le droit de délivrer des licences obligatoires pour les dessins et modèles industriels.
21. Veuillez préciser s'il existe des conditions additionnelles pour prolonger la durée de
protection de cinq ans accordée conformément à la section 10 2) de la Loi de 1996 sur les dessins et
modèles industriels, autres que le paiement de la taxe de renouvellement prescrite.
E. BREVETS
22. Le terme "ailleurs" figurant à l'article 9 1) de la Loi sur les brevets concerne-t-il les actes
accomplis dans le monde entier?
23. Veuillez expliquer comment l'article 12 2) de la Loi sur les brevets est compatible avec
l'article 27:2 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC qui s ouligne que "les Membres pourront exclure de la
brevetabilité les inventions ... pour éviter de graves atteintes à l'environnement ...".IP/C/W/178
Page 11
24. Veuillez expliquer comment l'article 20 1) de la Loi sur les brevets est compatible avec
l'article 4 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC. Veuillez préciser sa relation avec l'article 70 de la Loi sur les
brevets.
25. Veuillez définir l'expression "produits alimentaires courants dans le commerce" figurant à
l'article 41 2) de la Loi sur les brevets.
26. Veuillez expliquer comment les articles 46, 47 et 48 de la Loi sur les brevets sont compatibles
avec l'article 31 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC. Veuillez notamment, expliquer en détail, les
prescriptions légales en matière d'usage.
27. Veuillez expliquer comment l'article 91 2) de la Loi sur les brevets est compatible avec
l'article 70:7 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC.
28. Veuillez fournir une copie de la déclaration faite par le Président pour promulguer la Loi sur
les variétés végétales.
F. SCHÉMAS DE CONFIGURATION (TOPOGRAPHIES ) DE CIRCUITS INTÉGRÉS
29. Veuillez préciser la portée et les limitations dans "l'intérêt du public", énoncées à la
section 16 1) a) de la Loi de 1996 sur les schémas de configuration (topographies) de circuits intégrés
en expliquant, par exemple, comment cette disposition satisfait aux conditions définies à l'article 31 b)
de l'Accord sur les ADPIC.
30. Veuillez indiquer si l'expiration d'une licence obligatoire, conformément à la section 16 4) de
la Loi de 1996 sur les schémas de configuration (topographies) de circuits intégrés, peut arriver
uniquement à la demande du détenteur du droit. Le ministre peut-il, ex officio , mettre un terme à une
telle licence, s'il estime que les circonstances qui ont conduit à son octroi ont cessé d'exister?
31. Veuillez préciser encore si la durée de la protection accordée [au titre de la section 7 1) et 7 2)
de la Loi de 1996 sur les schémas de configuration (topographies) de circuits intégrés] est toujours de
dix ans exactement. Veuillez indiquer, également, s'il y a eu exploitation commerciale avant le dépôt
de la demande d'enregistrement, dans les délais requis à la section 3 2) de cette Loi.
G. PROTECTION DES RENSEIGNEMENTS NON DIVULGUÉS
32. Veuillez fournir une copie de la déclaration faite par le Président pour promulguer la Loi sur
la protection contre la concurrence déloyale.
33. Veuillez préciser la façon dont vous interprétez et mettez en œuvre les mesures nécessaires
pour s'assurer que les données sont protégées contre l'exploitation déloyale dans le commerce, ainsi
qu'il est prescrit à l'article 9 4) b) de la Loi sur les brevets.
__________
| 4,301 | 28,471 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_Tbtn02_SVN10.pdf
|
Q_G_Tbtn02_SVN10
|
WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONG/TBT/N/SVN/10
22 May 2002
(02-2839)
Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade Original: English
NOTIFICATION
The following notification is being circulated in accordance with Article 10.6.
1. Member to Agreement notifying: SLOVENIA
If applicable, name of local government involved (Articles 3.2 and 7.2):
2. Agency responsible: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food
Name and address (including telephone and fax numbers, e-mail and web-site
addresses, if available) of agency or authority designated to handle comments
regarding the notification shall be indicated if different from above:
3. Notified under Article 2.9.2 [ X ], 2.10.1 [ ], 5.6.2 [ ], 5.7.1 [ ], other:
4. Products covered (HS or CCCN where applicab le, otherwise national tariff heading.
ICS numbers may be provided in addition, where applicable):
Fertilizers (HS code 31.02, ICS 65.08)
5. Title, number of pages and language(s) of the notified document: Mineral Fertilizers
Act (8 pages, in Slovenian)
6. Description of content: This Act regulates the placing and control of fertilizers on the
market, the conditions of use of the EC FERTILIZER designation, methods of sampling,
analytical methods and conditions for ammonium nitrate fertilizers.
7. Objective and rationale, including the na ture of urgent problems where applicable:
Free movement of goods
8. Relevant documents: Act is prepared on the basis of:
- Council Directive 76/116/EEC of 18 December 1975, Council
Directive 80/876/EEC of 15 July 1980, Commission Directive 87/94/EEC of
8 December 1986, Commission Directive 77/535/EEC of 22 June 1977.
9. Proposed date of adoption: 30 June 2002
Proposed date of entry into force: 15 July 2002
10. Final date for comments: 20 June 2002
11. Texts available from: National enquiry point [ X ] or address, telephone and fax
numbers, e-mail and web-site addresses, if available of the other body:
| 292 | 1,970 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_SPS_NUSA395.pdf
|
Q_G_SPS_NUSA395
|
. /.WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONG/SPS/N/USA/395
13 February 2001
(01-0680)
Committee on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures Original: English
NOTIFICATION OF EMERGENCY MEASURES
1. Member to Agreement notifying: UNITED STATES
If applicable, name of local government involved:
2. Agency responsible: Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service - APHIS
3. Products covered (provide tariff item number(s) as specified in national schedules
deposited with the WTO; ICS numbers may be provided in addition, where
applicable). Ruminants or swine and their products Regions or countries likely to be
affected, to the extent relevant or practicable: South Africa
4. Title and number of pages of the notified document: Change in Disease Status of the
Republic of South Africa Because of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (3 pages)
5. Description of content: APHIS is amending the regulations governing the importation of
certain animals, meat, and other animal products by removing the Republic of South Africa
from the list of regions considered to be free of rinderpest and foot-and-mouth disease. We
are taking this action because the existence of foot-and-mouth disease has been confirmedin two provinces in the Republic of South Africa. The effect of this action is to prohibit or
restrict the importation of any ruminant or swine and any fresh (chilled or frozen) meat and
other products of ruminants or swine into the United States from the Republic of South
Africa.
6. Objective and rationale: [ ] food safety, [ X ] animal health, [ ] plant protection,
[ ] protect humans from animal/plant pest or disease, [ ] protect territory from
other damage from pests
7. Nature of the urgent problem(s): To prevent the introduction of FMD into the United
States.
8. An international standard, guideline or recommendation does not exist [ ].
If an international standard, guideline or recommendation exists, give its appropriate
reference and briefly identify deviations: APHIS is taking this action in accordance with
Articles 2.1.1 and 2.1.4 of the Office International des Epizooties (OIE) Animal Health
Code.
9. Relevant documents and language(s) in which these are available: 66 FR 9641,
9 February 2000 (Available in English)
10. Date of entry into force/period of application (as applicable): This interim rule was
effective on 6 November 2000.G/SPS/N/USA/395
Page 2
11. Texts available from/and agency or authority designated to handle comments:
[ X ] National notification authority, [ X ] National enquiry point or address, fax
number and E-mail address (if available) of other body We invite you to comment. We
will consider all comments that we receive by 10 April 2001. Detailed instruction on where
and how to send comments is in the body of the full text - which will be sent upon requestto the address below:
United States SPS Enquiry Point/Notification Authority
USDA/FAS/FSTSD
ATTN: Carolyn F. Wilson
Room 5545 South Agriculture Building
Stop 1027
1400 Independence Avenue, S.W.Washington, D.C. 20250
Tel: (202) 720-2239
Fax:(202)690-0677
E-mail: [email protected]
| 474 | 3,148 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_TN_S_M4.pdf
|
R_TN_S_M4
|
RESTRICTEDORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCETN/S/M/4
11 février 2003
(03-0870)
Conseil du commerce des services
Session extraordinaire
COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION TENUE LES 28 OCTOBRE
ET 1ER NOVEMBRE 2002
Note du Secrétariat1
1. Le Conseil du commerce des services s'est réuni en session extraordinaire les 28 octobre et
1er novembre 2002. L'ordre du jour de la réuni on se trouve dans le document WTO/AIR/1936.
2. Le Président a rappelé qu'à sa réunion de juillet le Conseil avait décidé d'inscrire à son ordre
du jour un nouveau point intitulé "Examen des progrès des négociations entre les participants".
L'objectif était de promouvoir la transparence des négociations et de permettre à la session
extraordinaire de s'acquitter de sa tâche en tant qu'organe responsable de la supervision des
négociations. Cela devrait aussi offrir aux Membres l'occasion de faire part de leurs préoccupations et
de leurs impressions au sujet du progrès des négociations. Comme convenu, ce point serait examiné
le vendredi 1er novembre.
3. Le Président a dit qu'au titre des "Autres questions" il souhaitait informer le Conseil de deux
lettres qu'il avait reçues, l'une du Président des sessions extraordinaires du Comité du commerce et du
développement et l'autre du Président du Groupe de travail du commerce et du transfert de
technologie. Il avait en outre l'intention de faire une brève déclaration au sujet du choix des secteurs,
pour faciliter la participation d'experts envoyés par les administrations nationales et l'organisation de
consultations bilatérales par les chargés de liaison des missions à Genève. Il a suggéré que le Conseil
adopte l'ordre du jour tel que distribué.
4. Il en a été ainsi convenu.
A. ÉVALUATION DU COMMERCE DES SERVICES
5. Le Président a rappelé qu'en juillet le Conseil avait accepté la demande faite par
l'Afrique du Sud d'inviter M. James Hodge, ch ercheur à l'Université du Cap, à présenter une
communication. Cette communication, présentée par s on auteur à titre personnel, en sa qualité de
chercheur indépendant, était intitulée "The Experience with Services Liberalization in Southern
Africa" et avait été distribuée en tant que document de salle de conférence. M. Hodge avait fait
auparavant une analyse des effets économiques des services, en collaboration avec des chercheurs
norvégiens, qui avait été présentée au Conseil en 1999 dans le cadre du débat sur l'évaluation du
commerce des services.
6. L'orateur a dit que les données nécessaires pour les recherches dans ce domaine étaient
lacunaires et que la libéralisation avançait très lentement dans certains secteurs. Le secteur des
télécommunications était celui dans lequel la technologie avait évolué le plus vite, de même que la
1 Le présent document a été établi par le Secrétariat sous sa propre responsabilité et sans préjudice des
positions des Membres et de leurs droits et obligations découlant de l'OMC.TN/S/M/4
Page 2
demande et l'éventail des produits, mais les enseignements qu'on pourrait en tirer n'étaient peut-être
pas applicables à d'autres secteurs. L'intervenant avait voulu décrire l'approche uniforme, qualifiée de
"libéralisation encadrée", employée en Afrique australe. Cette approche était axée en premier lieu sur
un transfert de propriété, suivi d'une intensification progressive de la concurrence, au moyen de la
délivrance de licences (une licence à la fois) donnant des périodes d'exclusivité. La réforme étaitjugée nécessaire en raison d'une inefficience considérable et du fait que les services absorbaient
beaucoup de ressources publiques. Toutefois, l'efficience n'était pas la seule considération qui
présidait à la formulation de la politique menée en la matière. L'Afrique australe se caractérisait par
une population peu importante, très dispersée sur le plan géographique et relativement pauvre, si bien
qu'elle ne constituait pas un marché très intéressant, ce qui pourrait justifier l'adoption d'une approche
différente. Le premier objectif de la réforme avait été de lever des recettes par la vente des actifs.
Cette approche se fondait sur les programmes d'ajustement structurel préconisés par le FMI, axés surla réduction de l'endettement, ce qui avait incité les autorités à accroître la valeur des actifs vendus en
accordant des périodes d'exclusivité et en ne libéralisant les secteurs concernés que progressivement.
La politique était aussi déterminée par le fait que l'objectif de développement le plus important n'était
peut-être pas de donner à chacun un accès au téléphone, mais plutôt de fournir des soins de santé de
base ou de lutter contre la menace de famine. Il serait peut-être préférable que les responsablespolitiques consacrent leur énergie et les ressources budgétaires à d'autres objectifs, et ce choix
incombait aux gouvernements. Sur le plan politique, en raison de la pauvreté de la région, il était plus
important d'offrir les services au plus grand nombre possible et à un coût abordable que de fixer des
prix qui conviendraient aux entreprises. La priorité allait à l'accroissement de l'investissement et des
recettes. Les caractéristiques du marché jouaient aussi un rôle important par exemple dans le secteurde l'énergie, pour lequel il n'y avait pas de possibilité de réelle concurrence: deux ou trois grandes
centrales électriques ne constituaient pas un marché, si bien qu'on ne pouvait pas envisager une
libéralisation. Il importait de rappeler que ces marchés étaient petits et peu attrayants pour les
investisseurs étrangers. L'investissement dans les services d'utilité publique était un investissement à
long terme et les pays avaient essayé d'en accroître la rentabilité, si bien que les investisseursjouissaient d'un énorme pouvoir de négociation. Les entreprises elles-mêmes avaient été les
principaux partisans de la réforme. Toutefois, la réforme s'était heurtée à des contraintes politiques,
telles que le risque de destruction d'emplois et la nécessité de pratiquer des prix abordables. Les
études montraient qu'en raison de l'insuffisance de la réglementation, si l'on ne parvenait pas à limiter
le pouvoir de marché des entreprises, les gains résultant de la réforme risquaient fort d'être accaparés
par les entreprises et de ne pas profiter aux consommateurs. Les pays dont la réglementation était
faible craignaient que la réforme débouche sur des résultats inéquitables et sur la création demonopoles ou d'oligopoles privés. En outre, il n'y avait pas de mesures de sauvegarde d'urgence, si
bien qu'une fois les grands investisseurs établis sur le marché, le gouvernement ne pourrait plus
modifier les règles. En raison de cette dynamique, les gouvernements étaient prudents et, de ce point
de vue, il était préférable d'accorder un contrat d'exploitation qui pouvait être résilié, plutôt que
d'inviter des investisseurs privés.
7. Le secteur qui faisait exception était celui des télécommunications, dans lequel la réforme
n'avait pas eu l'impact négatif et était plus facile à gérer sur le plan politique. Aucun des pays étudiés
n'avait introduit la concurrence dans ce secteur sauf pour les services de téléphonie mobile. La
plupart des exploitants de réseaux fixes arrivaient au terme de leur période d'exclusivité, et la réforme
devait être engagée au cours des deux prochaines années. Cela signifiait que les Membres pourraientfaire des offres dans ce secteur dans le cadre des négociations de Doha; toutefois, l'intervenant a fait
observer que la plupart des pays prévoyaient de n'avoir qu'un seul fournisseur disposant d'un réseau.
Cela montrait où étaient les priorités des gouvernements: le moyen le plus rapide d'introduire la
concurrence aurait été d'ouvrir le marché de la revente simple, mais l'Afrique australe n'avait pas opté
pour cette voie, et la plupart des pays préféraient accorder une concession à un deuxième fournisseurexclusif, de façon à attirer le plus d'investissements possible. Le deuxième concessionnaire jouirait
d'une période d'exclusivité, ce qui l'inciterait à accroître son investissement. Pour ce qui est de
l'impact de la réforme, il ne fallait pas oublier qu'il était difficile de faire des comparaisons car il n'yTN/S/M/4
Page 3
avait pas eu de libéralisation intégrale dans tous les segments du marché, mais on pouvait commencer
à formuler quelques conclusions. Pour les services de base, le téléphone mobile pouvait être un
substitut partiel de la téléphonie fixe. L'expansion de la téléphonie mobile était plus rapide que celle
de la téléphonie fixe dans presque tous les pays et la téléphonie mobile représentait environ deux tiers
à trois quarts du marché. Dans bien des cas, cette expansion était imputable essentiellement ausegment le moins riche du marché, ce qui était important du point de vue des considérations de
développement et d'accès.
8. Certains observateurs concluaient hâtivement que la concurrence entraînait une amélioration
de l'accès, mais les recherches faites par l'intervenant avaient montré qu'au contraire ce qui avait
beaucoup contribué à améliorer l'accès, c'était l'introduction d'une nouvelle technologie avec une
structure de tarification différente. Dans le cas de la téléphonie fixe, la tarification se caractérisait par
un abonnement mensuel assez cher et des coûts d'appel modérés, alors que dans le cas de la téléphoniemobile c'était le contraire, si bien que la possibilité d'obtenir un téléphone mobile et de l'employer sur
la base du prépaiement améliorait l'accès, même si le coût des appels était plus élevé. Dans la
téléphonie fixe, la croissance initiale était due à l'expansion du réseau, qui résultait du fait que certains
fournisseurs jouissaient d'une exclusivité. Toutefois, aujourd'hui le nombre de lignes fixes avait
tendance à diminuer, par exemple en Afrique du Sud où deux millions d'abonnés avaient résilié leurabonnement au cours des deux dernières années, ce qui représentait près de 30 pour cent des lignes
fixes existantes. Cela s'expliquait en partie par la concurrence de la téléphonie mobile et par une
restructuration des tarifs qui pénalisait les consommateurs. Une majoration de la redevance mensuelle
de 2 dollars EU inciterait 10 pour cent des Sud-Africains à résilier leur abonnement. En termes
d'efficience, on avait tendance à juger que le succès de la libéralisation dépendait uniquement de laprésence d'investisseurs étrangers détenant des participations, et l'investissement étranger avait
effectivement entraîné des gains d'efficience. Toutefois, dans les pays qui avaient opté pour la
privatisation partielle et la concurrence, l'emploi avait diminué, ce qui n'était pas le cas dans les autres
pays. Dans un premier temps, la conclusion d'un pacte entre l'État et l'investisseur permettait d'éviter
les suppressions d'emplois: l'expansion du réseau et l'investissement créaient des emplois et, tant que
la concurrence n'était pas introduite, les licenciements restaient minimes. Les emplois créés par la
mise en œuvre de nouvelles technologies, comme la téléphonie mobile et Internet, ne compensaient
pas totalement les emplois perdus dans la téléphonie fixe. L'intervenant a répété que le cas des
télécommunications était unique, car il y avait eu des innovations radicales et une augmentation de la
demande de transmission de données et de téléphonie mobile qui avaient contribué à atténuer la
contraction de l'emploi. Il doutait que cela soit valable pour les autres services d'utilité publique.
9. Pour ce qui est des autres enseignements tirés de l'expérience, l'intervenant a rappelé ce qui
était bien connu au sujet du service public, à savoir que les entreprises et leurs investissements étaient
peu efficients, et que cela expliquait pourquoi les pays souhaitaient une libéralisation. L'approche de
la libéralisation encadrée avec des périodes d'exclusivité et des objectifs d'expansion des réseaux avait
été remplacée par l'augmentation de l'investissement par décret. L'expérience montrait que cela n'était
pas nécessairement un progrès: le niveau considérable des résiliations d'abonnement donnait à penserqu'une grande partie des investissements affectés à l'expansion du réseau avaient été gaspillés. Par
conséquent, une stratégie de libéralisation conçue pour accroître le niveau de l'investissement et des
recettes pouvait échouer, car l'investissement n'était pas nécessairement judicieux. Dans le cas de
l'Afrique du Sud, l'orateur estimait que 2 à 4 milliards de dollars EU d'investissements avaient été
gaspillés. Deuxièmement, alors qu'on pouvait obliger une entreprise publique à desservir toute lapopulation, cela n'était pas possible dans le cas d'une entreprise privée. Toute stratégie conçue pour
stimuler l'investissement devait tenir compte du niveau des tarifs: la restructuration des tarifs était
incompatible avec une politique de service universel. La population avait opté pour la téléphonie
mobile car en raison de sa structure de tarification elle était plus abordable. En outre, la stratégie
d'ensemble avait révélé des failles car le processus de réforme graduelle, conçu pour accroître lesrecettes de l'État en accroissant la valeur des actifs, avait été victime de la récession, qui avait entraîné
un effondrement des cours des actions des entreprises de télécommunications. La conclusion qu'ilTN/S/M/4
Page 4
fallait en tirer, c'était que la manipulation des règles ne permettait pas de maîtriser totalement le
niveau des recettes. Tout cela s'était traduit par un enlisement des réformes, puisque les pays
voulaient attendre un jour meilleur qui leur permettrait de vendre leurs actifs plus cher, et les
entreprises étaient moins disposées à investir.
10. La troisième leçon concernait la capacité de réglementer des pays en développement: tous les
organes de réglementation assumaient les fonctions qui leur étaient normalement confiées, mais il
était difficile de dire avec quelle efficacité. Dans quelle mesure la réglementation des prix était-elle
contraignante? Le choix des exploitants était-il optimal? La politique appliquée par les organes de
réglementation était-elle la meilleure compte tenu de la situation du marché? L'impression générale
était que les organes de réglementation étaient laxistes en matière de contrôle des prix car ils n'étaient
pas très puissants et ne pouvaient pas engager de poursuites judiciaires en cas d'infraction. Les
entreprises avaient une énorme influence sur les organes de réglementation. Les pays développéspouvaient s'appuyer sur les associations de consommateurs, la présence d'autres entreprises et des
offices de la concurrence pour limiter le pouvoir des entreprises et accroître celui des organes de
réglementation, mais dans les pays en développement ces institutions étaient faibles. Une grande
partie des renseignements sur lesquels se fondaient les décisions de réglementation étaient fournis par
les entreprises, qui tendaient naturellement à défendre leurs intérêts, ce qui n'allait pas dans le sensd'une intensification de la concurrence. Toutefois, on pouvait faire appel à des consultants pour la
sélection des fournisseurs, mais le recours à des consultants dans ce domaine était souvent un des
symptômes de la faiblesse de l'organe de réglementation. Cette sous-traitance était naturellement
coûteuse et cela avait empêché par exemple l'organe de réglementation de la Namibie de délivrer une
licence car il n'avait pas eu les moyens d'engager un consultant pour évaluer les soumissions. Lesréactions très vives des consommateurs aux modifications des tarifs avaient une grande influence. En
guise de conclusion, l'intervenant a dit que, pour atteindre des objectifs de développement dans le
cadre de la libéralisation, il ne suffisait pas d'ajouter une subvention visant à financer un service
universel dans un marché totalement libéralisé: il fallait tenir compte du processus et des résultats de
la politique de développement. Du point de vue de l'étranger, on pouvait avoir une opinion différenteau sujet de ces approches, mais celles-ci étaient déterminées par des facteurs nationaux. Toutefois, le
processus pour lequel on avait opté jusqu'à présent était loin d'être parfait et il fallait être critique à
propos des stratégies adoptées et approfondir les recherches en vue de formuler une stratégie tenant
compte des objectifs de développement. Le grand avantage de la consolidation des engagements dans
le cadre de l'OMC était qu'elle crédibilisait le processus de libéralisation. Cet aspect était peut-être
moins pertinent pour les pays d'Afrique australe. Ce qui était plus intéressant pour eux, c'était la
possibilité d'obtenir un accès aux marchés dans d'autres secteurs. La plupart des pays étaient bienconscients du fait qu'une fois qu'ils auraient ouvert à la porte à un grand investisseur étranger, le fait
de le chasser aurait un impact très négatif sur le développement, et ils ne reviendraient donc pas sur
leurs réformes.
11. Le représentant de Djibouti a dit que les observations de l'orateur décrivaient une situation qui
était celle de toute l'Afrique. Pour ce qui est des aspects plus ou moins positifs de la libéralisation, il a
demandé comment ces considérations pourraient s'appliquer à d'autres secteurs dans lesquels une
libéralisation était envisageable. L'Afrique n'était pas prête à une libéralisation totale du commerce
des services car elle n'était pas armée pour soutenir la concurrence étrangère. Dans de nombreux
secteurs, la libéralisation entraînait moins de gains d'efficience que par le passé, ce qui était dû en
partie au fait que le processus n'avait pas été convenablement préparé, et l'Afrique ne pouvait passatisfaire à ses exigences. L'intervenant a souligné qu'il fallait se concentrer sur ces questions dans le
cadre de l'OMC.
12. Le représentant de la Colombie a dit que les observations concernant les capacités de
réglementation attiraient l'attention sur la nécessité de veiller à ce que la libéralisation tienne compte
de nombreux facteurs, faute de quoi elle risquait d'échouer. Les pays qui envisageaient unelibéralisation ne devaient pas oublier que les pays développés avaient su régler le problème de laTN/S/M/4
Page 5
réglementation et ouvrir ainsi la voie à la privatisation. Cela offrait aux pays en développement un
bon modèle. L'intervenant se demandait dans quelle mesure il faudrait que l'organe de réglementation
soit indépendant du pouvoir législatif et du pouvoir exécutif, de façon qu'il soit à l'abri des pressions
exercées par les Ministres et puisse réglementer en se fondant sur des considérations techniques. La
présence d'un organe de réglementation indépendant n'était pas toujours une garantie d'absenced'intervention politique. Que le législateur essaie d'avoir une influence sur les tarifs était une chose,
mais c'en était une autre que la société conteste la façon dont l'organe de réglementation appliquait la
loi et les aspects sociaux, économiques et de dé veloppement de ses décisions, qui n'étaient pas
toujours faciles à prendre. Par exemple, il fallait se demander qui financerait le service universel et
s'il faudrait recourir à l'impôt ou à des subventions croisées pour rendre les services abordables pour
les utilisateurs les plus pauvres. Cela soulevait aussi la question de l'arbitrage entre efficience et
accès. La plupart des Membres percevaient une redevance d'accès des fournisseurs de services, etcette redevance pourrait être employée pour créer des organes de réglementation et renforcer leurs
capacités. Une telle approche offrirait une garantie sociale de bon fonctionnement dont les secteurs
modernes de la société avaient besoin pour pouvoir soutenir la concurrence internationale.
13. Le représentant du Pakistan a dit que les télécommunications étaient un secteur qui présentait
de l'intérêt pour son pays et que les renseignements communiqués au sujet de l'Afrique australe étaient
utiles. Les éléments clés de l'exposé étaient la prudence et la notion de libéralisation encadrée, et
l'intervenant a demandé ce que l'orateur entendait par une forte opposition politique et une stratégie de
libéralisation encadrée, et si cela signifiait que les dirigeants politiques n'étaient pas convaincus de
l'efficacité d'une telle stratégie. Il souhaitait savoir quels étaient les motifs de cette opposition et si
l'un de ces motifs était qu'une telle stratégie ne serait pas conforme aux objectifs de développement. Ilse demandait aussi comment l'orateur était parvenu à la conclusion que l'exportation de ces services
ne présentait pas beaucoup d'intérêt pour les pays en développement, et si cette conclusion se fondait
sur des données empiriques ou n'était qu'une conjecture . Selon lui, après le Cycle d'Uruguay, les pays
en développement avaient pu accroître leurs exportations de services.
14. Le représentant des Communautés européennes est intervenu pour donner des renseignements
au sujet du commerce de services de télécommunicatio n entre les CE et l'Afrique du Sud. L'orateur
avait dit que la téléphonie mobile pouvait se substituer à la téléphonie fixe et se demandait si cela était
lié au fait que le cadre réglementaire avait encouragé la concurrence dans la téléphonie mobile alors
que dans la téléphonie fixe il n'y avait guère eu de concurrence et que peu d'investisseurs avaient
manifesté de l'intérêt pour l'obtention d'une deuxième concession. Selon l'intervenant, la présence
d'un réseau fixe était importante pour certains utilisateurs, mais elle perdrait de son importance si ce
réseau était inefficace. La téléphonie mobile pouvait se substituer à la téléphonie fixe lorsque latéléphonie fixe ne donnait pas satisfaction. L'intervenant a demandé ce que les Membres pourraient
faire concrètement pour compléter le processus de libéralisation encadrée et garantir la desserte de
zones isolées et peu rentables dans lesquelles les exploitants ne souhaiteraient peut-être pas investir.
Quels étaient les mécanismes envisagés par l'Afrique du Sud, en particulier pour la téléphonie
mobile?
15. Le représentant de la Chine a dit que l'exposé avait apporté des données et des enseignements
en matière de libéralisation. Le travail d'évaluation au titre de l'article XIX aiderait tous les Membres,
et en particulier les Membres en développement, à participer aux négociations sur l'accès aux
marchés. La Chine était en train de rédiger un document sur l'évaluation du commerce des services et
espérait le communiquer en décembre. Elle était un Membre d'accession récente qui avait pris desengagements considérables et faisait tout son possible pour les tenir. Il importait de prévoir une
période transitoire pour améliorer le cadre juridique et réglementaire et donner aux fournisseurs
nationaux le temps de se préparer à soutenir la concurrence étrangère. La réglementation nationale
devait évoluer parallèlement à la libéralisation et il fallait mettre en place une bonne régulation avant
de libéraliser.TN/S/M/4
Page 6
16. Le représentant de la Norvège a dit que, selon l'expérience acquise par son pays dans ce
secteur, la libéralisation avait eu des effets positifs tant pour les consommateurs que pour les
entreprises et que les données empiriques relatives à certains pays en développement montraient
qu'elle stimulait le développement des entreprises. En général, l'essor du commerce des services
favorisait le développement économique et technologique. En réaction à la question posée par lePakistan au sujet de l'intérêt du commerce des services pour les pays en développement et des
résultats obtenus par ces pays dans ce domaine, l'intervenant a dit que les études montraient que
l'expansion du commerce des services était plus dynamique dans les pays en développement que dans
les pays développés. Ces deux catégories de pays devaient former leur propre jugement au sujet de la
libéralisation au moyen d'un débat public. La Norvège avait rédigé une communication sur les
enseignements qu'elle avait tirés de la libéralisation des secteurs de l'électricité et du pétrole.
17. Le représentant de Djibouti a reconnu que la libéralisation du commerce dans ce secteur était
importante pour le développement, mais il ne se faisait aucune illusion au sujet de l'Afrique, qui était
un cas à part et où ce processus de libéralisation ne faisait que commencer. Les pays qui n'avaient
accédé à l'indépendance que dans les années 60 connaissaient encore peu ce secteur et avaient du mal
à définir une stratégie. L'intervenant se demandait si l'on pouvait affirmer que l'Afrique avait un
intérêt dans ce domaine. Il ne savait pas quelle stratégie de développement les autres Membresenvisageaient, ni comment évaluer l'éventail des options qui étaient présentées, et il n'avait pas les
capacités de recherche nécessaires pour faire cette évaluation. Il n'y avait aucun moyen de prouver
qu'une nouvelle stratégie serait meilleure que la stratégie actuelle.
18. L'orateur a répondu qu'en employant l'expression "forte opposition politique", il se référait à
la libéralisation intégrale et cela signifiait que la libéralisation encadrée paraissait souvent préférable
car elle tenait compte des considérations politiques. Il y avait des considérations politiques sensibles
car les services d'utilité publique étaient essentiels pour la lutte contre la pauvreté et soulevaient donc
des préoccupations parmi les consommateurs et les syndicats. Tous les pays acceptaient la nécessité
de la libéralisation, car les anciennes stratégies avaient révélé leurs limites, mais la question était de
savoir quelle stratégie pourrait apporter des avantages, en particulier aux pauvres. L'important était leprocessus d'élaboration de la stratégie. Pour ce qui est de l'intérêt des pays, l'intervenant convenait
que l'exportation de services présentait de l'intérêt pour des pays en développement à revenu moyen,
comme l'Afrique du Sud, qui avaient une balance des services positive et des intérêts sur les marchés
des États-Unis et de l'Europe. Dans le cas des pays plus pauvres, les secteurs de services intéressants
se limitaient au tourisme et à certains services de transport annexes, pour lesquels, dans les transports
maritimes et aériens, les pays imposaient souvent des obligations de consommation. La balance du
commerce des services des pays pauvres, et en particulier les PMA, était en général très déficitaire.En réponse à la question du représentant des CE concernant la concurrence et le succès de la
téléphonie mobile, l'intervenant a dit qu'il était difficile de démêler les différents facteurs de succès,
mais il pensait que la structure tarifaire était déterminante et il a mentionné à cet égard les exemples
du Lesotho et de la Namibie, où le fait que la téléphonie mobile soit un monopole n'avait pas empêché
une expansion similaire à celle constatée sur d'autres marchés. Il n'y avait pas de différence notablede taux de pénétration entre les pays ayant deux fournisseurs et ceux qui en avaient davantage. La
tarification avait évolué, au profit du prépaiement sans abonnement, ce qui permettait aux
consommateurs pauvres de maîtriser leurs dépenses. L'orateur n'avait pas dit que l'absence de
concurrence avait eu des effets négatifs sur la téléphonie fixe, mais qu'une plus grande concurrence
pourrait entraîner une amélioration des services fixes. En ce qui concerne la promotion de l'accès auxservices au moyen d'une libéralisation encadrée, une subvention pure visant à assurer un service
universel était trop chère pour la plupart des pays. C'est pourquoi les pays avaient plutôt offert des
incitations pour l'expansion des réseaux, mais cette stratégie avait débouché sur des investissements
non rationnels, et n'avait pas tenu compte de la nécessité de faire en sorte que les services offerts
soient abordables. L'Afrique du Sud était en train d'examiner la structure tarifaire et les moyens deréduire la redevance mensuelle. Sur un marché compétitif, il n'était pas possible de mettre en œuvre
des subventions croisées, mais on pouvait influer sur la structure tarifaire par la réglementation. LaTN/S/M/4
Page 7
faiblesse des organes de réglementation était due à tous les facteurs évoqués précédemment. Dans de
nombreux cas, les organes de réglementation ne pouvaient pas appliquer une politique tenant compte
du contexte. Des lois imitées de celles d'autres pays ou fondées sur une obligation de moyens ne
donnaient pas aux organes de réglementation les outils nécessaires pour adapter le régime des
télécommunications à la situation locale. Dans de nombreux cas, ces organes n'avaient pas lescapacités nécessaires pour contrôler l'application de leurs décisions, telles que les objectifs de
déploiement, et dépendaient à cet égard des renseignements fournis par les entreprises. Le processus
d'examen judiciaire pouvait mettre en évidence ces carences et les jugements des tribunaux montraient
que les décisions de réglementation étaient souvent prises sur des bases fragiles et favorisaient les
entreprises. Il était fréquent que la stratégie adoptée pour renforcer les capacités paraisse inadaptée au
personnel de l'organe de réglementation, qui démissionnait. Il fallait créer des capacités d'expertise et
de recherche et former assez de personnel ayant les compétences nécessaires pour remplacer ceux quiquittaient l'organe de réglementation. Pour ce qui est de l'indépendance, il était souhaitable que la
politique soit définie par le gouvernement mais que l'organe de réglementation soit indépendant en
matière d'application. Cette question était en grande partie subjective. Un pays pouvait copier les lois
d'un autre pays, mais les entreprises s'intéressaient à la façon dont l'organe de réglementation
fonctionnait en réalité et craignaient les ingérences politiques. Malheureusement, dans de nombreuxcas, les gouvernements avaient une mauvaise image à cet égard. Les organes de réglementation
avaient besoin d'orientations politiques.
19. Le représentant du Venezuela a demandé si l'orateur avait connaissance de cas dans lesquels
la libéralisation avait été subordonnée à une préférence en faveur d'un fournisseur national ou d'un
groupe de fournisseurs nationaux.
20. L'orateur a répondu qu'il y avait dans certains cas des préférences visant à renforcer
l'entreprise nationale de façon que celle-ci ait un marché plus important au moment où la concurrence
serait introduite. Une fois la concurrence introduite, il pouvait y avoir des réglementations biaisées en
faveur de l'exploitant historique qui était souvent considéré comme le fournisseur des pauvres. Par
exemple, les subventions pour assurer le service universel pouvaient être réservées au fournisseurnational, ce qui lui donnait un avantage.
21. Soulignant l'importance pour les travaux du Conseil de l'exposé sur les télécommunications et
d'un certain nombre d'observations faites par l'orateur, le représentant du Mexique a dit que la
libéralisation de ce secteur devait se faire conformément aux besoins de chaque pays et tenir comptedes nouvelles lois. Il fallait être prudent dans l'application des nombreux engagements pris dans ce
secteur durant le Cycle d'Uruguay et dans le quatrième Protocole. Il fallait tenir compte des attentes
et des besoins des consommateurs et des fournisseurs au niveau national. Il fallait aussi se préoccuperdu niveau des tarifs et de leur structure, particulièrement dans un pays comme le Mexique. La
libéralisation du marché des télécommunications au cours des dix dernières années dans ce pays avait
montré que cette réforme avait d'importantes répercussions sur les autres secteurs de l'économie.
22. Le Président a remercié à nouveau l'orateur de son très intéressant exposé qui avait suscité de
nombreuses questions et observations. Il a rappelé qu'à la réunion de juillet du Conseil la délégation
thaïlandaise avait présenté une nouvelle communication sur l'évaluation du commerce des services,
qui avait été distribuée sous la cote TN/S/W/4. Un corrigendum avait été distribué ultérieurement
sous la cote TN/S/W/4/Corr.1. Cette communication avait suscité plusieurs réactions préliminaires
favorables et un certain nombre de délégations avaient indiqué qu'elles souhaitaient y revenir.
23. La représentante de Cuba a dit qu'elle avait l'intention de revenir sur l'exposé oral à la
prochaine réunion et que la communication de la Thaïlande était utile car elle faisait une analyse
statistique de l'effet de la réforme du commerce des services dans certains secteurs importants sur le
plan systémique et tirait des leçons de l'expérience de ce pays à cet égard. Les pays en développement
pouvaient employer ces éléments pour faire en sorte que les négociations sur l'ouverture des marchésTN/S/M/4
Page 8
donnent des résultats positifs. En particulier, l'intervenante a appelé l'attention sur les paragraphes 63
à 67 de la communication, considérant elle aussi que la libéralisation devait être un processus planifié
et mis en œuvre par étapes, plutôt qu'un objectif à poursuivre de façon incohérente, en particulier si
cette réforme avait des effets systémiques sur l'économie. Il importait de libéraliser progressivement
et en tenant compte du contexte. L'intervenante pensait elle aussi, comme cela était dit auparagraphe 67, que le succès de la libéralisation exigeait une réglementation efficace, y compris dans
les pays développés, et que les pays en développement avaient besoin de temps pour mettre au point
un régime adapté à leurs besoins et pour faire en sorte que tous les intéressés retirent des avantages de
la réforme. La communication de la Thaïlande et le débat qu'elle avait suscité mettaient la dimension
développement au cœur des discussions.
24. Le représentant des Communautés européennes, intervenant au sujet de l'analyse des services
financiers faite dans la communication de la Thaïlande, a dit qu'il fallait se demander si la
libéralisation du commerce des services financiers n'avait pas été une des grandes causes de la crise
qui avait touché la Thaïlande dans la deuxième moitié des années 90. À son avis, il fallait faire une
distinction entre la libéralisation du commerce des services financiers et la libéralisation des
mouvements de capitaux, même s'il y avait certains chevauchements entre les deux. Il pensait,
comme d'autres, que la libéralisation des mouvements de capitaux associée à une parité fixe et à uncontrôle laxiste des établissements financiers avait été une des grandes causes de la dégradation de la
position extérieure et de l'accumulation de dettes extérieures privées. Il fallait certainement que la
libéralisation de la fourniture transfrontières de certains services financiers, comme le crédit, qui
impliquait une libéralisation des mouvements de capitaux, soit menée par étapes soigneusement
ordonnées et sous certaines conditions, concernant en particulier la réglementation et le contrôle desétablissements financiers, pour qu'elle apporte vraiment des avantages. En revanche, la fourniture
transfrontières d'autres services comme la réassurance ou les services consultatifs n'impliquait que des
mouvements de capitaux limités et ne causait pas de crises financières. La libéralisation du commerce
des services financiers en mode 3 n'impliquait pas de mouvements de capitaux instables et contribuait
à stabiliser le système financier national par l'intensification de la concurrence et le transfert desavoir-faire. Globalement, la libéralisation du mode 3 semblait donc bénéfique, comme le disait la
Thaïlande. D'ailleurs, depuis 1997, ce pays avait assoupli son régime de l'IED dans les services
financiers et l'IED avait par la suite beaucoup augmenté. L'intervenant en concluait que la
libéralisation des services financiers en mode 3 pouvait être un moyen efficace d'éviter les crises
financières et de renforcer le secteur national des services financiers.
25. En ce qui concerne les services de distribution, la Thaïlande avait présenté des arguments en
faveur d'une libéralisation progressive, et la position des CE était que les Membres pouvaient opterpour une libéralisation plus ou moins rapide en fonction du contexte. En principe, les deux options
étaient tout aussi valables. L'intervenant reconnaissait la nécessité de garantir une concurrence loyale,
de réglementer et de préserver d'autres intérêts légitimes. Il fallait libéraliser et réglementer en
parallèle. La réglementation devait être efficace et appliquée de façon non discriminatoire.
L'acceptation d'engagements pour les services de distribution dans le cadre de l'AGCS étaitcompatible avec la modernisation, l'optimisation et la réglementation de ce secteur car l'AGCS laissait
aux pays la marge de manœuvre nécessaire.
26. Le représentant du Sénégal a dit que les services financiers et la distribution jouaient un grand
rôle dans l'économie de son pays et que la communication de la Thaïlande l'aiderait à faire sa propre
évaluation aux fins des négociations. Il pensait lui aussi qu'il fallait libéraliser par étapes tout enrenforçant le cadre réglementaire. Il a souligné l'importance de la question posée au paragraphe 72, à
savoir si la libéralisation était compatible avec la réglementation. À son avis, cette question soulevait
de grandes difficultés tant théoriques que pratiques et il espérait que la libéralisation se ferait dans de
bonnes conditions.TN/S/M/4
Page 9
27. Le représentant du Paraguay, soulignant l'importance des services financiers et des
télécommunications dans son pays, a remercié l'orateur et le représentant de la Thaïlande de leurs
observations pertinentes sur la libéralisation et la réglementation. Le Paraguay était en train de
libéraliser son secteur des télécommunications et la présence de quatre concurrents sur le marché
national avait attiré des investissements étrangers. La réglementation du secteur était efficace. Latéléphonie mobile était entre les mains du secteur privé et le nombre d'abonnés aux téléphones
mobiles dépassait celui des abonnés aux téléphones fixes. La fourniture de services financiers était
elle aussi totalement libéralisée, mais la réglementation et le contrôle des établissements financiers
avaient soulevé des difficultés. L'intervenant a souligné la nécessité de renforcer le cadre juridique de
chaque secteur avant de le libéraliser. Le Paraguay avait entrepris de réformer son secteur des
services financiers dans le but de renforcer les structures de réglementation et de contrôle. Pour
terminer, l'intervenant a dit que la volatilité des flux de capitaux posait de grandes difficultés à sonpays et, en réaction aux observations des CE, qu'il fallait tenir compte des problèmes liés à la liberté
des mouvements de capitaux lorsqu'on réformait le système financier, comme l'avait dit la Thaïlande
dans sa communication.
28. Le représentant de l'Indonésie pensait lui aussi qu'il fallait libéraliser de façon progressive et
en tenant compte des besoins socioéconomiques. Il souhaitait avoir plus de précisions de la Thaïlande
au sujet de la façon dont elle avait essayé d'atténuer l'impact sur les détaillants traditionnels, par
exemple en durcissant la réglementation.
29. La représentante de la Thaïlande, répondant à quelques-unes des questions qui lui avaient été
posées, a réaffirmé qu'un cadre réglementaire solide était très important pour la libéralisation des
services, mais qu'il n'était pas facile pour de nombreux pays en développement de mettre en place untel cadre. Cela valait non seulement pour les services financiers et la distribution, mais aussi pour
d'autres services comme les télécommunications et le tourisme. En réponse aux observations des CE,
l'intervenante a dit qu'il fallait faire une distinction entre les mouvements de capitaux et les services
financiers, mais qu'on ne pouvait pas totalement les dissocier. Par exemple, la libéralisation
impliquait des mouvements de capitaux virtuels. La libéralisation des services en mode 3 était trèsdifférente de la libéralisation en mode 1. Cela ne changeait rien à la conviction de la Thaïlande que la
libéralisation des mouvements de capitaux devait se faire dans un cadre réglementé. Par exemple, en
l'absence d'une bonne régulation, un afflux massif de capitaux pouvait provoquer une crise financière.
Les gouvernements, ayant pris conscience de ce problème, avaient examiné les liens entre
mouvements de capitaux et services financiers, en raison de la possibilité d'effets systémiques. Il était
essentiel d'avoir une bonne réglementation. Répondant à la question de l'Indonésie au sujet des
services de distribution, l'intervenante a dit que les études faites par différents ministères etadministrations avaient conclu qu'il fallait renforcer les capacités des petits détaillants face à
l'intensification de la concurrence. Les options envisagées comprenaient notamment une refonte non
discriminatoire des plans d'occupation des sols ou une limitation des heures d'ouverture, et l'on
cherchait en particulier à donner au commerce traditionnel des possibilités de se moderniser, au
moyen de programmes de formation dans des domaines tels que les techniques de commercialisationet de gestion des stocks et par exemple en les encourageant à grouper leurs achats pour obtenir des
rabais de quantités.
30. Le représentant de la Norvège est intervenu pour souligner quelques éléments d'une
communication sur l'électricité et le pétrole qui avait été distribuée aux Membres. Dans le secteur
pétrolier, il a rappelé que la politique de son pays visait à attirer les personnes les plus compétentes etles plus expérimentées disponibles sur le marché international. Il y a une trentaine d'années, lorsque
les travaux de prospection offshore avaient commencé, la Norvège ne disposait pas de personnel
qualifié et il avait donc été indispensable de libéraliser l'accès aux marchés pour les services liés à
l'industrie pétrolière, afin de promouvoir le transfert de savoir-faire et d'attirer des investissements
étrangers directs. Les entreprises multinationales avaient donc été parmi les premières à obtenirl'autorisation de faire des études géologiques au large de la Norvège et à mettre en valeur lesTN/S/M/4
Page 10
gisements pétroliers du pays. La création d'une nouvelle compagnie pétrolière susceptible de réaliser
cette entreprise sans la collaboration de l'industrie pétrolière internationale aurait demandé beaucoup
trop de temps et été très coûteuse. Depuis, l'industrie du pétrole offshore de la Norvège était
progressivement devenue une industrie viable et compétitive qui vendait ses services et son
savoir-faire dans toutes les régions du monde.
31. Le représentant de la Norvège a dit que son pays avait progressivement transformé ses
activités extractives et maritimes en un certain nombre d'industries de pointe dans le secteur des
hydrocarbures. Dans certains domaines, les entreprises norvégiennes qui fournissaient des services à
cette industrie étaient parmi les plus compétentes au monde. Par exemple, des entreprises basées en
Norvège étaient parmi les premiers concepteurs et fournisseurs mondiaux de réseaux sous-marins
intégrés et détenaient quelque 80 pour cent du marché mondial. L'élaboration d'un cadre
réglementaire et commercial stable avait été essentielle pour assurer la pluralité et la concurrence dansce secteur. La base générale du régime de concession de l'exploitation pétrolière en Norvège était
définie dans la Loi de 1996 sur le pétrole. Toute entreprise, quelle que soit sa nationalité, pouvait
obtenir une concession d'explorati on et d'exploitation. Toute entreprise ayant obtenu le droit de
prospecter et de produire avait aussi le droit de transporter des hydrocarbures par oléoduc ou gazoduc
dans le cadre de l'approbation de son plan de mise en valeur et d'exploitation. Les autoritésnorvégiennes ne subordonnaient à aucune condition de nationalité le droit d'exploiter des gazoducs et
des oléoducs.
32. Les premières étapes du développement de l'industrie électrique en Norvège ressemblaient à
bien des égards à celles du développement du secteur pétrolier. Au début du XXe siècle, des
entreprises étrangères avaient joué un grand rôle dans la mise en valeur des ressources du pays. Lemarché norvégien de l'électricité avait officiellement été libéralisé en 1991 et il était encadré par une
direction responsable de l'administration des ressources en eau et des ressources énergétiques du pays,
ainsi que par un organe de réglementation. La société Statnett SF, entreprise d'État indépendante,
était responsable de la construction et de l'exploitation du réseau principal. En 1993 avait été créé le
groupement de l'électricité "Statnett Marked AS" (aujourd'hui appelé Nor Pool ASA), pour gérer lecommerce de l'électricité et équilibrer l'offre et la demande en temps réel. Ultérieurement, la Suède et
la Finlande s'étaient rattachées à ce réseau. Le Danemark avait récemment rejoint les autres pays
nordiques sur le marché de l'électricité. Les échanges sur la Bourse nordique de l'électricité
(Nord Pool SA) étaient ouverts à tous les pays, y compris les pays non nordiques, à des conditions
identiques.
33. Les communications distribuées aux participants à la session extraordinaire décrivaient
l'organisation et le fonctionnement de la Bourse nordique de l'électricité. Tous les utilisateurs finalsétaient libres de choisir leur fournisseur d'électricité et d'en changer gratuitement. Les consommateurs
domestiques recevaient des factures fondées sur un pr ofil de consommation prédéterminé et pouvaient
changer de fournisseur sans qu'il soit nécessaire de mesurer leur consommation. Le changement de
fournisseur se faisait souvent par Internet. Le propriétaire du réseau était tenu de donner sur les
factures des renseignements concernant l'évolution de la consommation. La facture trimestrielledevait indiquer la consommation d'électricité des trois derniers mois et celle du trimestre précédent à
titre de comparaison. Le propriétaire du réseau n'était pas autorisé à facturer aux clients les éventuels
frais liés au changement de fournisseur d'électricité. La libéralisation du marché de l'électricité avait
permis d'empêcher le prix de l'électricité d'augmenter durant une période caractérisée par
l'intensification de la concurrence.
34. Rappelant que son pays avait proposé de libéraliser le commerce des services liés à l'énergie,
l'intervenant a dit qu'à son avis il y avait de grandes possibilités de moderniser les règles régissant ce
commerce et que l'expérience de la Norvège avait montré que, pour retirer tous les avantages que la
concurrence pouvait apporter, il fallait tenir compte de toute la chaîne des services liés à l'énergie. La
concurrence donnait aux consommateurs la possibilité de choisir parmi plusieurs fournisseurs etTN/S/M/4
Page 11
stimulait l'investissement, et offrait aux pays en développement de meilleures chances de moderniser
à grands pas leur technologie.
35. Le représentant du Pakistan, intervenant au sujet d'un point de procédure, a demandé
comment les communications concernant l'évaluation étaient mentionnées sur l'ordre du jour et a dit
que le Pakistan, à l'instar d'autres pays en développement, avait présenté des communications. Il arappelé qu'une communication antérieure de l'Argentine, entre autres, n'avait pas été examinée en
détail au Conseil. Il se demandait si l'on ne pouvait faire des déclarations qu'au sujet des
communications mentionnées sur l'ordre du jour a nnoté ou si l'on pouvait aussi commenter toute
communication antérieure. Il se demandait s'il ne serait pas possible de redonner vie à ces évaluations
pour permettre aux Membres de faire des observations plus concrètes au sujet de communications
antérieures.
36. Le Président a dit que les annotations de l'ordre du jour avaient pour but de mettre en
évidence les communications les plus récentes. Il a rappelé au Conseil que les Membres étaient libres
de revenir sur toute communication antérieure et a dit qu'il réserverait une partie du débat à ces
communications.
37. Le représentant du Pakistan a suggéré que ce point de l'ordre du jour pourrait être
accompagné d'une annotation indiquant toutes les communications pertinentes qui avaient été faites.
38. En réponse à cette question de procédure, le Secrétariat a dit que, dans un but d'exhaustivité,
tous les documents étaient mentionnés une fois sur l'ordre du jour. Il n'était pas d'usage de répéter la
mention de tous les documents et une liste cumulative pourrait semer la confusion, en particulier du
fait que certaines questions étaient inscrites à l'ordre du jour en permanence. Il serait en effet utile
d'avoir une liste récapitulative et le Secrétariat pourrait établir une liste des documents relatifs àl'évaluation déjà présentés et la distribuer en tant que document distinct.
39. Le Président a proposé que le Conseil prenne note des déclarations et revienne sur cette
question à sa prochaine réunion. Il attendait avec intérêt une éventuelle communication de la Chine.
40. Il en a été ainsi convenu.
B. TRAITEMENT DE LA LIBÉRALISATION AUTONOME – RAPPORT DE
SITUATION DU PRÉSIDENT
41. Le Président a dit que, conformément à ce qui avait été convenu à la dernière réunion du
Conseil du commerce des services en session extraordinaire, il avait consulté différents groupes de
Membres ainsi que certains Membres individuellement pour voir s'il serait possible de forger un
consensus. Dans certains cas il avait pris l'initiative d'inviter un Membre ou un groupe de Membres à
une consultation et dans d'autres cas il avait été lui-même invité. Une réunion informelle à
participation non limitée avait été organisée le 16 octobre pour poursuivre ces consultations et lePrésident remerciait les délégations des communications et suggestions qu'elles avaient faites durant
tout ce processus. Il voulait donner un rapport de situation au sujet de l'élaboration des modalités, en
s'appuyant principalement sur les débats de la dernière réunion informelle à participation non limitée.
Cette réunion et les consultations avaient été axées sur quatre questions: la possibilité d'obtenir un
crédit en échange des concessions concernant le commerce des marchandises; les rapports entre lalibéralisation autonome et les consolidations; l'étendue des modalités, particulièrement en ce qui
concerne les pays en développement; et la situation des Membres récents. Le Président pensait qu'il
valait la peine de rappeler que certains Membres avaient soulevé d'autres questions, comme celle des
négociations dites prolongées sur les services financiers et les télécommunications de base, celle de
l'apparent déséquilibre des critères employés pour évaluer les mesures de libéralisation autonomes, etTN/S/M/4
Page 12
celle de la situation des Membres qui avaient déjà pris des engagements importants dans le cadre de
l'AGCS.
42. Tous les Membres s'étaient montrés souples, mais pas assez, ce qui avait permis de bien
avancer en ce qui concerne les deux premières questions, celle des marchandises et celle des
consolidations, mais moins en ce qui concerne les deux autres questions, celle des pays endéveloppement et celle des Membres récents. Les débats sur les marchandises et les consolidations
montraient que la plupart des délégations étaient disposées à trouver une solution acceptable dans le
cadre du projet de modalités. En ce qui concerne la première question, une des solutions pourrait être
de remplacer l'actuelle mention d'un crédit sous forme de concessions visant le commerce des biens
par une possibilité plus générale d'accorder un crédit sous toute forme qui conviendrait au Membre
ayant pris des mesures de libéralisation et à ses partenaires commerciaux. Selon le Président, cela
laisserait aux Membres intéressés un choix plus large pour déterminer les modalités qui leurconviendraient le mieux dans le cadre de négociations bilatérales et correspondrait davantage à la
réalité. En ce qui concerne les consolidations, les délégations semblaient reconnaître que, d'une part,
le fait de porter à la connaissance des partenaires commerciaux les mesures de libéralisation prises
dans le cadre de ce travail ne signifiait pas que les Membres concernés consolideraient
automatiquement ces mesures et que, d'autre part, nul ne devrait être tenu à accorder une concession(totale ou partielle) consolidée en échange de mesures de libéralisation autonomes non consolidées. Il
n'était peut-être pas nécessaire de le rappeler dans les modalités, mais le Président pensait que, si les
Membres souhaitaient que ces questions soient explicitées dans le texte, on pourrait trouver une
formulation appropriée.
43. Le Président a dit que malheureusement on avait moins avancé en ce qui concerne les deux
autres questions, celles des pays en développement et des Membres récents, et qu'il ne pouvait donc
pas présenter un projet de modalités révisé. Pour ce qui est des pays en développement, il a rappelé
que la question était de savoir s'il faudrait que les pays développés renoncent à demander un crédit
aux pays en développement ou s'il fallait laisser cette possibilité ouverte, si théorique qu'elle puisse
paraître. Il a rappelé que cela était le sens de la proposition faite par un groupe de pays endéveloppement dans le document JOB(02)/77. Malheureusement, il n'avait pas constaté suffisamment
de flexibilité de part et d'autre pour qu'on puisse trouver une solution acceptable pour tous. Il a
rappelé qu'il avait été suggéré de mentionner la différence de niveau de développement au lieu
d'établir des catégories précises de Membres, et qu'on avait demandé quels étaient les droits et
obligations que cela impliquerait en termes de modalités. À son avis, on n'était pas simplement en
présence d'un problème de formulation et des compromis politiques seraient nécessaires.
44. La principale question que soulevait la situation des Membres récents était celle de savoir si
les engagements qu'ils avaient pris dans le cadre de leur accession seraient considérés comme des
mesures de libéralisation autonome aux fins des modalités. Le Président a rappelé que cette idée
suscitait une vaste opposition. Lors de la réunion informelle du 16 octobre, les Membres concernés
avaient distribué un document de séance décrivant un ensemble de modalités pour le traitement des
mesures de libéralisation prises par les Membres récents et cette approche n'avait pas emportél'adhésion des autres Membres. Toutefois, il fallait bien reconnaître que les mesures de libéralisation
consolidées par les Membres les plus récents durant leur processus d'accession allaient plus loin que
les engagements ordinaires des Membres fondateurs de l'OMC se situant à un niveau de
développement similaire, comme l'avaient dit les Ministres au paragraphe 9 de la Déclaration de
Doha. Selon le Président, pour le moment la seule façon de régler cette question consisterait à adopterun document, qui pourrait être une décision ou une déclaration du Président. Ce document pourrait
s'appuyer sur différents éléments, tels que l'article XIX de l'AGCS, les Lignes directrices et
procédures pour la négociation et la Déclaration mi nistérielle de Doha, et indiquerait que les Membres
s'accordaient sur la nécessité de tenir compte de la situation des Membres d'accession récente. Le
Président a dit qu'il ne développerait pas davantage cette proposition.TN/S/M/4
Page 13
45. Le Président regrettait qu'il ne soit pas encore possible d'adopter les modalités et a dit qu'il
poursuivrait ses consultations à ce sujet. Il a répété qu'il était à la disposition des Membres qui
souhaiteraient lui faire part de leurs suggestions et idées. Il chercherait à s'appuyer sur le fait que les
Membres s'étaient dits disposés à faire preuve de souplesse pour aller de l'avant. Il lui paraissait
essentiel pour le progrès des négociations de régler cette question. Il espérait qu'à sa prochaineréunion, en décembre, le Conseil trouverait une solution.
46. Le représentant de la Chine, évoquant la mention par le Président du projet de document
distribué à la réunion informelle par les Membres récents, a tenu à préciser qu'il ne s'était pas joint aux
auteurs de cette proposition.
47. Le Président a pris acte de cette mise au point et a dit que seuls certains des Membres
d'accession récente avaient parrainé ce projet, et que la Chine n'en faisait pas partie. Il a suggéré que
le Conseil prenne note des déclarations et revienne sur cette question à sa prochaine réunion.
48. Il en a été ainsi décidé.
C. MODALITÉS DU TRAITEMENT SPÉCIAL EN FAVEUR DES PAYS LES MOINS
AVANCÉS MEMBRES
49. Le Président a rappelé qu'en vertu de l'article XIX de l'AGCS, les Membres étaient tenus de
définir les modalités du traitement spécial à accorder aux PMA Membres durant ce cycle de
négociations sur les services et que les PMA avaient présenté un document à ce sujet (JOB(02)/30). Il
a rappelé en outre que, comme convenu, le Secrétariat avait établi une liste récapitulative des
questions soulevées et des observations faites, qui avait été distribuée sous la cote JOB(02)/135, en
date du 30 septembre 2002. Pour faire avancer les choses, on avait convoqué le 7 octobre une réunion
informelle à participation non limitée, durant laquelle les Membres avaient brièvement commenté lesquestions soulevées par les PMA. Suite à ces consultations, le Président avait cru comprendre que les
Membres souhaitaient adopter les modalités le plus tôt possible et de préférence avant le
31 mars 2003. Il avait eu l'impression que, si elles étaient adoptées à temps, ces modalités pourraient
faciliter les négociations. Il a rappelé qu'à la réunion informelle, le Sénégal, intervenant au nom des
PMA, avait annoncé que ces pays avaient l'intention de présenter un projet de modalités. C'était uneinitiative dont tous les Membres s'étaient félicités, car elle permettrait au Conseil d'avoir un débat
ciblé sur les éléments précis qui pourraient être intégrés dans les modalités.
50. Le représentant du Sénégal a remercié le Président des efforts qu'il avait faits dans ce domaine
et a confirmé qu'un groupe de PMA espérait terminer et distribuer un document avant la réunion
formelle de décembre de façon que les Membres puissent avoir un débat de fond à cette réunion. Le
projet de document avait été distribué à certains PMA et le groupe était en train de l'examiner en vue
de l'approuver. L'intervenant espérait qu'il serait disponible longtemps avant la réunion.
51. Le Président a suggéré que le Conseil en session extraordinaire ait une réunion informelle à
participation non limitée avant décembre pour donner aux Membres l'occasion d'examiner le projet et
d'organiser les débats de la prochaine réunion formelle.
52. Le représentant de Djibouti a appuyé la suggestion du Président et a confirmé que le projet de
document serait bientôt arrêté. Il espérait que les PMA pourraient présenter à la réunion de décembre
un document de fond sur le commerce des services. Il a rappelé que les pays de ce groupe, dont
Djibouti, étaient parmi les plus vulnérables des Membres de l'OMC et qu'il fallait les traiter avec une
bienveillance particulière.TN/S/M/4
Page 14
53. Le Président a suggéré que, pour indiquer aux Membres comment se préparer à la réunion de
décembre, le Conseil prenne note des déclarations et revienne sur cette question à sa prochaine
réunion.
54. Il en a été ainsi décidé.
D. TRAVAUX DES ORGANES SUBSIDIAIRES – RAPPORTS DES PRÉSIDENTS
55. Le Président du Comité du commerce des services financiers, M. Syed Habib Ahmed
(Pakistan), a dit que le Comité s'était réuni le 21 octobre et avait examiné les questions suivantes:
acceptation du cinquième Protocole de l'AGCS; examen transitoire au titre du paragraphe 18 du
Protocole d'accession de la République populaire de Chine; questions techniques; évolution récente
du commerce des services financiers; et proposition d'inviter la Banque mondiale à présenter son
onzième rapport sur les politiques intitulé "Finance for Growth".
56. En ce qui concerne l'acceptation du cinquième Protocole, le Comité avait reçu des
renseignements actualisés sur les procédures de ratification de la Bolivie, de la Pologne, de la
République dominicaine et de l'Uruguay. L'intervenant a rappelé que le Conseil du commerce des
services en session ordinaire avait décidé, le vendredi 25 octobre, de rouvrir le Protocole pour
acceptation par la Bolivie et se félicitait de cette bonne nouvelle. Le Protocole avait été accepté par la
Chambre des représentants de l'Uruguay et était actuellement examiné par la Commission des affairesinternationales du Sénat. Dans le cas de la République dominicaine, le Protocole avait été approuvé
par le Sénat et serait bientôt examiné par la Chambre des représentants. Enfin, dans le cas de la
Pologne, la procédure était très avancée et l'inst rument de ratification attendait la signature du
Président.
57. Pour ce qui est du second point, le Comité av ait procédé au premier examen transitoire de la
mise en œuvre par la Chine de ses engagements dé coulant de l'OMC, conformément au paragraphe 18
du Protocole d'accession de ce pays. Des communications écrites avaient été remises avant la réunion
par les Membres suivants: Communautés européennes et leurs États membres (S/FIN/W/18),
États-Unis (S/FIN/W/19), Canada (S/FIN/W/ 20), Japon (S/FIN/W/21 et S/FIN/W/21/Add.1) et
Taipei chinois (S/FIN/W/22). Le Comité avait rendu compte de ses travaux à ce sujet au Conseil ducommerce des services en session ordinaire et l'on pouvait trouver un compte rendu détaillé des
débats dans le rapport de la réunion, distribué sous la cote S/FIN/M/37, aux paragraphes 11 à 71.
58. L'intervenant a ajouté qu'aucune question particulière n'avait été soulevée au titre du point
"Questions techniques". Toutefois, à la demande de la Thaïlande et de Hong Kong, Chine, il avait
confirmé que les Membres étaient convenus que le mandat assez large du Comité à cet égard
permettait d'aborder toute question technique que les Membres souhaiteraient soulever, y compris
celles qui se posaient dans le cadre des demandes bilatérales. Ces questions étaient notamment cellesconcernant la réglementation et en particulier la transparence. En fait, l'examen de ces questions
pourrait constituer une bonne combinaison de négociations bilatérales et de travail multilatéral.
59. En ce qui concerne l'évolution récente du commerce des services financiers, l'Australie avait
fait un exposé très intéressant au sujet de la réforme de sa réglementation financière. Cet exposé avait
été distribué ultérieurement sous la cote S/FIN/ W/23. En outre, la délégation de Hong Kong, Chine
avait annoncé qu'elle allait présenter pour la prochaine réunion un document sur le commerce
électronique des services financiers, et ferait un exposé. Les États-Unis avaient répété que ce point de
l'ordre du jour offrait une bonne occasion d'examiner certaines questions, comme celle de la
transparence des procédures de réglementation interne, et permettait aux pays de rendre compte des
résultats de la réforme de leur secteur des services financiers.TN/S/M/4
Page 15
60. L'intervenant a dit que, suite à une proposition du Canada, le Comité avait décidé d'inviter la
Banque mondiale à faire un exposé sur son onzième rapport sur les politiques, intitulé "Finance for
Growth: Policy Choices in a volatile world". Compte tenu des disponibilités du personnel de la
Banque mondiale, cet exposé serait présenté pendant la prochaine série de réunions sur les services,
aussitôt après la réunion du Comité.
61. Le Président du Comité des engagements spécifiques, M. Niklas Bergström (Suède), a dit
que, depuis sa dernière réunion, le Comité avait eu une réunion formelle le 24 octobre, à laquelle il
avait examiné deux questions de fond: les questions de classification et les questions liées à
l'établissement des listes d'engagements. S'agissant des questions de classification, le Secrétariat avait
établi un inventaire de toutes les propositions qui avaient été faites au Comité, y compris en session
extraordinaire, afin de faciliter le débat, pour préciser les différentes positions. Les Communautés
européennes avaient présenté une proposition sur les services informatiques et les services connexes,portant la cote S/CSC/W/35, qui avait également été distribuée en tant que document de la session
extraordinaire. Durant le débat, certains Membres avaient dit qu'il faudrait avoir des discussions plus
approfondies sur les différentes propositions de classification. Il avait donc été convenu de tenir des
consultations informelles à ce sujet dans un très proche avenir.
62. En ce qui concerne l'établissement des listes d'engagements, le Comité avait examiné deux
questions: l'incorporation de nouveaux engagements dans les listes des Membres et l'inscription
d'engagements additionnels au titre de l'article XVIII de l'AGCS.
63. En juillet les Membres étaient convenus en principe de présenter à la fin des négociations une
liste unique reprenant à la fois les engagements existants et les nouveaux engagements résultant des
négociations en cours. Afin de faciliter la présentation des offres sous forme d'un document desynthèse par chaque Membre, le Secrétariat s'était fixé pour objectif d'achever l'élaboration des projets
de listes consolidées des Membres à la fin de novembre. Ces projets de listes devraient aider les
délégations à élaborer leur offre initiale, mais n'avaient aucune valeur juridique. Il incomberait donc
aux Membres de s'assurer que leurs engagements étaient correctement décrits. Les Membres auraient
le temps, tout au long des négociations, de vérifier que les engagements préexistants de leurspartenaires commerciaux étaient décrits avec précision dans les offres présentées.
64. Le Comité avait aussi eu un premier débat sur la question de l'approche de l'établissement des
listes d'engagements additionnels au titre de l'article XVIII de l'AGCS, en se fondant sur une note du
Secrétariat (S/CSC/W/34). Le débat avait ét é axé sur la question du champ d'application de
l'article XVIII et de ses rapports avec les autres di spositions de l'AGCS, en particulier les articles XVI
et XVII, et sur le mandat de négociation défini à l'article VI:4. Il avait été souligné que le but de
l'article XVIII était de permettre aux Membres de prendre des engagements additionnels et que cetarticle ne devrait pas être employé pour se soustraire à des obligations énoncées dans l'accord. On a
fait observer que plusieurs engagements pris par des Membres en vertu de l'article XVIII paraissaient
constituer des limitations qui auraient dû être inscrites dans les colonnes Accès aux marchés ou
Traitement national et non à la rubrique Engagements additionnels.
65. Au titre des "Autres questions", le Secrétariat avait donné au Comité des renseignements
récents au sujet de la préparation de l'atelier sur l'établissement des listes, qui devait se tenir du 27 au
29 novembre, à l'occasion de la prochaine série de réunions sur les services. On avait trouvé le
financement nécessaire pour prendre en charge la participation d'un fonctionnaire de l'administration
nationale de chacun des pays en développement participant aux négociations. Cet atelier était destiné
avant tout aux fonctionnaires responsables de l'élaboration des offres et permettrait d'aborder lesquestions techniques que soulevaient l'établissement des listes d'engagements et la préparation des
offres. Le Président avait informé le Comité qu'il avait reçu une lettre du Président des sessions
extraordinaires du Comité du commerce et du développement et une autre du Président du Groupe de
travail du commerce et du transfert de technologie, qui souhaitaient avoir avant la fin de novembreTN/S/M/4
Page 16
des renseignements sur les travaux du Comité des engagements spécifiques ayant un rapport avec les
délibérations que menaient ces organes dans leur domaine de compétence. Il avait l'intention de
répondre à ces demandes par un compte rendu des débats pertinents du CES.
66. Le Président du Groupe de travail des règles de l'AGCS, M. Thomas Chan (Hong Kong,
Chine), a dit que le Groupe de travail des règles de l'AGCS avait eu une réunion formelle le
23 octobre, à l'occasion de laquelle il avait traité les questions des mesures de sauvegarde d'urgence,
des subventions et des marchés publics. Il a ra ppelé qu'à sa réunion du 15 juillet, le Groupe avait
décidé d'adopter un programme de travail pour ces trois thèmes de négociation (JOB(02)/82/Rev.2),
sous réserve d'approbation. Aucune objection n'avait été formulée avant le délai fixé au
22 juillet 2002. Le programme de travail pouvait donc être considéré comme adopté et avait été
distribué sous la cote S/WPGR/7, en date du 22 juillet 2002.
67. Les Membres avaient poursuivi leurs échanges de vues sur les différentes approches qui
avaient été proposées pour l'élaboration d'une éventue lle clause de sauvegarde d'urgence. Ils avaient
décidé de demander au Secrétariat d'établir une liste des différentes propositions, formelles et
informelles, présentées à ce sujet, en mettant en évidence les principales questions abordées.
68. En matière de subventions, les Membres avaient eu l'impression générale qu'il leur faudrait
disposer de plus d'information avant d'examiner la nécessité de disciplines spécifiques. À cet égard,ils avaient examiné un questionnaire simplifié présenté à la dernière réunion par les délégations de
l'Argentine, du Chili et de Hong Kong, Chine, aux fins de l'échange d'information (JOB(02)/82,
12 juillet 2002). En outre, ils avaient eu un débat préliminaire sur un document du Secrétariat faisant
une compilation des données relatives aux subventions figurant dans les rapports d'examen des
politiques commerciales (S/WPGR/W/25/Add.3, 19 septembre 2002). Ils avaient constaté entre
autres que, si les rapports d'examen des politiques commerciales contenaient des renseignements
intéressants, ces renseignements étaient forcément incomplets en raison de la nature de ces rapports et
des contraintes qui leur étaient inhérentes.
69. Pour terminer, les délégations avaient poursuivi leur échange de vues sur une proposition des
Communautés européennes et de leurs États me mbres (S/WPGR/W/39) concernant les marchés
publics. En même temps, plusieurs délégations avaient continué de soutenir qu'à leur avis
l'article XIII excluait du champ de la négociation les obligations de traitement NPF, d'accès aux
marchés et de traitement national.
70. Le Président du Groupe de travail de la réglementation intérieure, M. Sergio Santos (Brésil), a
rappelé que, depuis juillet, le Groupe avait eu une réunion informelle le 9 octobre et une réunion
informelle le 22 octobre. Les débats de la réunion informelle avaient porté sur la question des
consultations entre le Secrétariat et les associations internationales de fournisseurs de servicesprofessionnels, et ceux de la réunion formelle sur l'examen d'exemples de mesures de réglementation.
71. À propos des notions liées à l'élaboration des disciplines, l'intervenant a dit qu'à la réunion
formelle du 22 octobre, les Membres avaient poursuivi l'examen des exemples de réglementations
donnés dans une note révisée du Secrétariat (JOB(02)/20/Rev.2), selon la procédure suggérée dans
une nouvelle note du Président (JOB(02)/147). Il a répété que cela était important pour respecter lesconsignes données au Groupe en matière de négociations sur les services, selon lesquelles il fallait
que les négociations sur l'article VI:4 de l'AGCS soient terminées avant la fin des négociations sur
l'accès aux marchés. Les débats de la réunion formelle du 22 octobre avaient porté notamment sur
l'éventuelle relation entre les mesures de réglementati on non inscrites sur les listes et l'article VI:4 de
l'AGCS dans les secteurs dans lesquels des engagements spécifiques avaient été pris, et sur lanécessité d'une définition plus officielle du genre de mesures sur lesquelles devaient porter les travaux
du Groupe de travail de la réglementation intérieure. Malheureusement, il y avait eu peu
d'interventions, bien que le Président ait souligné dans sa note que l'aspect le plus important deTN/S/M/4
Page 17
l'examen des mesures de réglementation était la participation de tous les Membres et en particulier des
pays en développement.
72. En ce qui concerne l'élaboration de discipline s pour les services professionnels, des progrès
importants avaient été faits aux réunions formelle et informelle. Avec un certain retard, les Membres
avaient décidé de demander au Secrétariat de consulter les associations professionnellesinternationales au sujet de la possibilité de transposer certains éléments et disciplines visant la
réglementation intérieure du secteur comptable à d'autres secteurs de services professionnels, et de
leur demander des renseignements sur leurs activités de réglementation. Par ailleurs, les Membres
avaient continué d'examiner le document du Secr étariat intitulé "Synthèse des résultats des
consultations sur les services professionnels organisées au niveau national" (JOB(01)/162,
27 novembre 2001). Il ressortait des interventions que les Membres, en particulier les Membres en
développement, attachaient une importance croissante au rôle du Groupe de travail en ce qui concerne
la reconnaissance des qualifications et d'autres aspects du mouvement des personnes physiques.
73. Les Membres ont décidé que la prochaine réunion se tiendrait en décembre, dans le cadre de
la "semaine des services".
74. Le représentant de la Chine a remercié le Président du Comité du commerce des services
financiers de son rapport et a rappelé que le mécanisme d'examen transitoire ne faisait pas partie des
travaux ordinaires du Conseil du commerce des services en session extraordinaire et n'était pas
pertinent pour ces travaux, et que le fait que cet examen avait été mentionné au titre de ce point ne
saurait constituer un précédent qui autoriserait à le soulever lors de futures réunions du Conseil.
75. Le Président a dit que selon lui, le compte rendu en question avait été fait dans l'intérêt de la
transparence et n'avait pas d'incidence sur les travaux de la session extraordinaire en tant que telle.
76. Le représentant de l'Uruguay a dit que les travaux des organes subsidiaires étaient relatés dans
les comptes rendus des réunions formelles, mais que ceux-ci n'étaient pas disponibles avant la réunion
suivante du Conseil. Il se demandait s'il ne serait pas possible de les communiquer aux délégations,
éventuellement par courrier électronique, à des fins purement administratives et pour faciliter leur
travail.
77. Le Président a dit que les comptes rendus seraient communiqués par courrier électronique
après la fin de la session extraordinaire. Il a suggéré que le Conseil prenne note des rapports des
Présidents et des déclarations et revienne sur cette question à sa prochaine réunion.
78. Il en a été ainsi décidé.
E. PROPOSITIONS RELATIVES AUX NÉGOCIATIONS AU TITRE DE
L'ARTICLE XIX DE L'AGCS
79. Le Président a dit que, depuis la réunion de juillet, deux nouvelles propositions avaient été
présentées au Conseil. La première était une communication des États-Unis concernant les PME
(S/TN/W/5) et la deuxième une communication de Maurice concernant les petites économies en tant
que fournisseurs de services (S/TN/W/8). En outre, plusieurs délégations avaient indiqué à cette
réunion qu'elles souhaitaient revenir sur la comm unication présentée à l'époque par les Communautés
européennes et leurs États membres au sujet des services informatiques et des services connexes(CSS/W/34/Add.1). D'autres délégations encore avaient dit qu'elles souhaiteraient revenir sur une
déclaration orale faite par le représentant du Chili au sujet des subventions. Enfin, le Secrétariat avait
rédigé une note informelle intitulée "Compilation of Existing Maritime Transport Offers", en réponse
à une demande formulée à la réunion de juin du Conseil.TN/S/M/4
Page 18
80. Présentant sa note informelle de synthèse des offres sur le transport maritime, un représentant
du Secrétariat a dit qu'elle se passait d'explication. L'introduction indiquait la méthode employée pour
sélectionner les offres intégrées dans la synthèse. Cette compilation avait été établie en réponse à ladécision du Conseil sur les services de transport maritime, qui avait suspendu ses négociations et
précisé qu'elles reprendraient dans le cadre du cycle en cours sur la base des offres existantes oud'offres améliorées. À cet effet, le Secrétariat avait cherché à déterminer ce qu'il faudrait considérer
comme offres existantes ou améliorées. La note de couverture indiquait les critères employés et, si les
Membres pensaient qu'ils n'étaient pas totalement justifiés, l'intervenant leur demandait de signaler
des erreurs qui auraient pu être commises. Il a ensuite appelé l'attention sur le tableau de la page 3 qui
donnait la chronologie des communications faites par les différents Membres participant aux
négociations depuis la suspension, avant le Cycle d'Uruguay, jusqu'à ce jour. Le Secrétariat avait
reproduit dans sa note le texte de la décision (publiée sous la cote S/L/24) pour information. Ilattendait avec intérêt les observations que les Membres pourraient faire au sujet de cette note.
81. Le représentant du Venezuela a demandé que la note soit distribuée par courrier électronique.
82. Le Président a répondu que la note n'avait pas été établie sous forme électronique et que le
Secrétariat étudierait la question.
83. Le représentant du Brésil a dit que ce document serait utile pour la négociation, mais que pour
faire sa compilation, le Secrétariat avait entrepris de définir l'expression "offres existantes". Il
comprenait que cela était nécessaire pour faire ce travail et que le Secrétariat avait pris la précaution
d'expliquer les critères qu'il avait employés, mais il a souligné que ce choix avait été fait uniquement
aux fins de la compilation et ne préjugeait pas de ce qu'il fallait entendre par "offres existantes" au
sens de la décision adoptée à la fin de 1996. Il a répété que l'offre faite par le Brésil le 2 avril 1996était subordonnée à un résultat positif des négociations, ce qui impliquait que tous les Membres
prendraient des engagements importants sur une base NPF. Ces conditions n'avaient pas été
satisfaites et elles restaient valables pour les négociations en cours.
84. La représentante des États-Unis, présentant la proposition de son pays au sujet des PME, a dit
qu'elle tenait compte des observations faites à la session extraordinaire d'octobre 2001, ainsi que de la
proposition présentée par le Canada en mars 2001 sous la cote S/CSS/W/49. Elle a souligné que les
PME étaient le moteur de la croissance et de la création d'emplois partout dans le monde et jouaient
un rôle important dans le secteur des services, aussi bien dans les pays développés que dans les pays
en développement. En général, on définissait les PME sur la base du nombre de salariés, étant
considérées comme petites entreprises celles comptant moins de 100 salariés et comme entreprises
moyennes celles comptant entre 100 et 500 salariés. Les PME constituaient plus de 95 pour cent des
entreprises des pays de l'OCDE et représentaient une grande partie de l'économie privée dans les paysen développement. Le Département des PME de la Société financière internationale avait mentionné
l'Équateur comme exemple, car dans ce pays près de 99 pour cent des entreprises n'avaient pas plus de
50 salariés. L'intervenante pensait que si l'on parvenait à réduire les obstacles aux exportations de
services fournis par des PME dans les négociations en cours, cela n'apporterait que des avantages à
tous les Membres, développés ou en développe ment. Dans leur proposition, les États-Unis
mentionnaient les cinq principaux obstacles en question et suggéraient des moyens de les réduire dans
le cadre des négociations sur l'AGCS. Premiè rement, les réglementations non transparentes et
discriminatoires, les formalités complexes et la durée excessive du traitement des demandes de
licences alourdissaient les coûts des PME et restreignaient leur accès aux marchés. Les PME avaient
besoin de pouvoir obtenir rapidement des renseignements précis sur les lois, règlements et procéduresles concernant. Les États-Unis suggéraient, comme première étape et lorsque les capacités
institutionnelles le permettaient, qu'on commence par diffuser par Internet les renseignements relatifs
aux règlements, procédures et mesures en vigueur ou nouvelles affectant les PME. En outre, pour
assurer la transparence des réglementations internes, il fallait donner aux PME des préavis suffisantsTN/S/M/4
Page 19
et la possibilité de commenter les projets de réglementations, prévoir des procédures d'examen et
simplifier les formalités d'obtention, de renouvellement ou de cession des licences.
85. En ce qui concerne le deuxième obstacle, c'est-à-dire l'obligation d'avoir une présence
commerciale, l'intervenante a rappelé que, selon la proposition du Canada, les PME offraient
généralement leurs services en mode 1 ou 4, en raison des contraintes dues à leur petite taille et à leurmanque de capital, et recouraient de plus en plus à Internet. Cette obligation, inscrite sur les listes des
Membres, restreignait l'accès des PME aux marchés. La suppression de prescriptions telles que les
obligations de domiciliation et de partenariat avec des entreprises locales aiderait les PME sans
interférer avec le droit des Membres de réglementer pour atteindre des objectifs de politique nationale,
notamment en matière de protection des consommateurs. En ce qui concerne le troisième obstacle,
c'est-à-dire les restrictions visant le mode 4, la durée excessive des formalités de délivrance des visas
était aussi très gênante pour les PME. Les États-Unis proposaient que les Membres fournissentdavantage d'informations et assurent une plus grande transparence des procédures relatives à l'entrée
et au séjour temporaire de personnel. On pourrait aussi envisager des visas d'affaires permettant des
entrées multiples (pour des séjours de moins d'un an) et des permis de travail de courte durée pour les
spécialistes et cadres des entreprises, ainsi que des moyens d'accélérer les voyages d'affaires du
personnel des PME.
86. Quatrièmement, l'intervenante a dit que les PME recouraient à la télématique pour fournir des
services sur mesure, gérer leur logistique et élargir leur clientèle. La lourdeur des prescriptions de
licences entraînait des coûts supplémentaires et entravait l'accès à Internet. Les États-Unis pensaient
que les Membres devraient s'abstenir de réglementer plus que nécessaire le commerce électronique et
chercher à créer un environnement facilitant les initiatives des PME et à la mise au point de nouvellestechnologies. Pour terminer, l'intervenante a dit qu'il fallait que les Membres prennent des
engagements visant les services annexes dont les PME avaient besoin pour pénétrer sur les marchés
étrangers et que les obstacles à la fourniture de ces services restreignaient l'accès des PME aux
marchés. Les États-Unis préconisaient un élargissement des engagements et une libéralisation totale
du commerce des services importants pour les PME, en particulier les services financiers, lestélécommunications, les services de distribution, les services de courrier express, les services
informatiques, la publicité, l'éducation et la formation et les services juridiques et comptables.
87. Intervenant au sujet d'une question relevant du point C de l'ordre du jour, la représentante des
États-Unis a dit que lors d'une précédente réunion un représentant des PMA avait proposé que les
Membres complètent leurs engagements au titre de l'article IV, concernant l'établissement de points de
contact, suggérant qu'ils établissent ces points de contact dans les PMA Membres eux-mêmes. Les
États-Unis étaient en train de créer des points de contact dans leurs ambassades dans les PMAMembres afin d'aider les fournisseurs de services à obtenir des renseignements sur leur marché. Leur
délégation informerait individuellement les délégations des PMA des points de contact que les
États-Unis allaient établir dans leurs ambassades dans ces pays.
88. Présentant la proposition contenue dans le document S/TN/W/8, le représentant de Maurice a
dit qu'elle se passait d'explication et était simple, cherchant à souligner quelques points
particulièrement importants. Il a rappelé qu'à Doha on avait réaffirmé les lignes directrices des
négociations du Programme de Doha pour le développement. Ces lignes directrices avaient été
adoptées par le Conseil du commerce des services en session extraordinaire le 28 mars 2001 et les
Membres étaient convenus que le processus de libéralisation tiendrait dûment compte des objectifs de
politique nationale, du niveau de développement et de la taille de l'économie des différents secteurs.L'intervenant a rappelé que le paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices appelait les Membres à appliquer
les articles IV et XIX:2 et à tenir compte des besoins des petits fournisseurs de services des pays en
développement. C'était dans ce contexte que Maurice avait formulé sa proposition. Maurice, comme
d'autres Membres, était soumise à plusieurs contraintes dues à l'étroitesse de son marché, au fait que
les possibilités de diversification étaient limitées et à sa vulnérabilité. Les petits fournisseurs deTN/S/M/4
Page 20
services des petites économies étaient de loin ceux dont le capital, les effectifs et les parts de marché
étaient les moins élevés. L'intervenant a rappelé que Maurice était un petit pays en développement
insulaire et que sa stratégie dans le secteur des services misait essentiellement sur le tourisme, ce qui
suscitait des préoccupations liées aux possibilités d'expansion et à la durabilité de cette activité.
Après les événements tragiques du 11 septembre, de nombreuses petites économies avaient subi despertes irréparables. La proposition exposait différents éléments, liés en particulier à l'application de
l'article IV de l'AGCS. L'intervenant a rappelé que les Lignes directrices pour les négociations
mentionnaient un mécanisme de suivi et sa délégation proposait des modalités de suivi dans ce cadre,
en particulier sous forme de rapports périodiques de la session extraordinaire au Conseil du commerce
des services et au Conseil général. À propos de la communication des États-Unis, il a fait observer
que ce qui était une petite entreprise aux États-Unis (c'est-à-dire une entreprise employant moins de
100 salariés, ayant un actif inférieur à 3 millions de dollars et un chiffre d'affaires annuel inférieur à3 millions de dollars) était une grande entreprise à Maurice, ce qui montrait pourquoi il fallait tenir
compte de façon particulière des besoins des petites économies telles que la sienne.
89. Le représentant de l'Égypte a demandé aux États-Unis des précisions sur le paragraphe 16,
section B, de leur proposition, dans lequel il était dit que les Membres devraient s'abstenir de
réglementer plus que nécessaire le commerce électronique. Il souhaitait que le représentant desÉtats-Unis développe ce qu'il entendait par réglementation non nécessaire et indique si cette
proposition avait un rapport avec les activités du Groupe de travail sur le commerce électronique.
90. Le représentant du Sénégal a dit qu'il y avait dans son pays un ministère chargé des PME. Il
partageait les préoccupations formulées dans la proposition des États-Unis et celles exprimées par le
représentant de Maurice, notamment en ce qui concerne le recensement des différents obstacles. Celasoulignait la nécessité d'accorder aux pays en développement plus de souplesse et de tenir compte en
priorité des besoins de leurs PME. Le Sénégal souscrivait à certaines des préoccupations mentionnées
dans la proposition de Maurice en ce qui concerne les petites entreprises des petites économies et
pensait que, conformément au Programme de Doha, il fallait tenir compte particulièrement des
problèmes des petites économies dans les négociations. Il a remercié les États-Unis de l'initiative decréer des points de contact dans leurs ambassades dans les PMA et a demandé que la liste de ces
points de contact soit communiquée. Il espérait qu'on adopterait bientôt les modalités de traitement
spécial des PMA.
91. Le représentant de la Norvège a dit que la proposition des États-Unis faisait un excellent point
sur la négociation des questions intéressant les PME et qu'il pensait lui aussi que les PME étaient des
moteurs de croissance et de création d'emplois. En raison de leur flexibilité, de nombreuses PME
étaient bien placées pour tirer parti de la mondialisation, mais d'un autre côté elles avaient plus de malque les grandes entreprises à franchir les obstacles au commerce. Les négociations devraient être
axées sur les obstacles qui les gênaient particulièrement, dont plusieurs étaient mentionnés dans la
proposition des États-Unis et étaient pertinents pour la négociation. La Confédération norvégienne du
commerce et de l'industrie avait fait des enquêtes sur les obstacles au commerce rencontrés par ses
membres et avait souligné la nécessité de supprimer les formalités superflues. L'intervenant aremercié Maurice de sa proposition et a dit qu'il y reviendrait peut-être. Compte tenu de l'importance
des PME, il serait utile que le Conseil intègre dans son programme de travail une information sur les
progrès réalisés dans ce domaine, notamment dans le cadre de l'article XIX de l'AGCS.
92. La représentante de la Barbade a dit qu'elle souscrivait aux observations qui avaient été faites
et en particulier au paragraphe 4 de la proposition des États-Unis, dans lequel ceux-ci avaient cherché
à déterminer les caractéristiques propres aux pays en développement en mentionnant l'exemple de
l'Équateur où la plupart des entreprises n'avaient que très peu de salariés. La Barbade partageait
certaines des préoccupations concernant par exemple l'accès à Internet, le renforcement des
engagements en modes 1 et 4 et la réduction des restrictions en mode 3. L'accès en mode 4 posait des
problèmes pour les petits fournisseurs de services des pays en développement. À cet égard, laTN/S/M/4
Page 21
Barbade était particulièrement préoccupée par les difficultés que rencontraient ses petits fournisseurs
de services lorsqu'ils demandaient des visas à l'Ambassade des États-Unis à Bridgetown.
L'intervenante a demandé quelles étaient les intentions des États-Unis en ce qui concerne
l'amélioration de ces formalités. Elle se joignait à l'Égypte pour demander en quoi la réglementation
du commerce électronique s'intégrait dans le programme de travail. Elle voulait aussi savoir quiétaient les "autres" dans le passage où les États-Unis disaient qu'il faudrait donner aux PME et à
d'autres intéressés la possibilité de commenter les réglementations internes. Elle voulait savoir si
l'intention était d'accroître la transparence de la réglementation interne ou de l'influencer avant son
entrée en vigueur. Elle souscrivait à plusieurs des préoccupations des États-Unis mais a souligné que,
si les PME d'un pays dont les exportations de services représentaient plus de 18 pour cent du
commerce mondial des services et augmentaient très vite rencontraient de tels problèmes et
contraintes, il était facile d'imaginer les difficultés bien plus grandes des petits fournisseurs deservices des pays en développement. Par exemple, la part de la Barbade dans le commerce mondial
des services était de 0,075 pour cent et son accès aux marchés des États-Unis, du Canada ou du
Mexique était très limité. Ces contraintes étaient aggravées par le choix des définitions, comme
l'avait fait observer Maurice et comme l'avait déjà dit auparavant la Barbade lorsque le Canada avait
présenté sa proposition sur cette même question. Selon la définition des États-Unis, était considéréecomme PME une entreprise employant moins de 100 salariés et ayant un chiffre d'affaires inférieur à
3 millions de dollars EU, mais à la Barbade étaient considérées comme telles celles qui employaient
moins de 25 salariés et avaient un chiffre d'affaires inférieur à 125 000 dollars EU; étaient
considérées comme micro-fournisseurs les entreprises de moins de cinq salariés réalisant un chiffre
d'affaires inférieur à 25 000 dollars EU. L'emploi de critères quantitatifs était défavorable aux petitesentreprises des pays en développement. Il faudrait que le Conseil et les négociateurs trouvent des
moyens d'encourager la participation de ces entreprises au commerce international, conformément au
paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices. L'intervenante a demandé aux Membres de supprimer les
critères de besoin économique, d'améliorer l'accès en mode 4, de ne pas appliquer de mesures de
sauvegarde d'urgence aux petits fournisseurs de services, étant donné que leurs activités n'avaientqu'un impact négligeable, et d'intensifier les travaux relatifs à la facilitation des échanges de services.
Elle a invité d'autres Membres à suivre l'exemple des États-Unis en créant des points de contact dans
les pays en développement pour améliorer l'accès à l'information, ce qui faciliterait la tâche des petits
fournisseurs de services. Il serait aussi utile d'organiser des séminaires ou des rencontres
commerciales, de créer des sites Internet qui permettraient aux petits fournisseurs de proposer leurs
services aux pays développés, et de financer des missions commerciales de pays en développement.
93. La représentante de Hong Kong, Chine a dit qu'elle était consciente des difficultés des petites
économies, telles qu'elles étaient décrites dans la proposition de Maurice, et reviendrait peut-être sur
cette question. La proposition des États-Unis concernant les PME appelait l'attention sur un secteur
qui était la principale composante de l'économie de presque tous les Membres. À Hong Kong,
98 pour cent des entreprises locales étaient des PME et elles employaient plus de 60 pour cent des
salariés du secteur privé. Hong Kong, Chine considérait comme PME les entreprises de moins de50 salariés. L'intervenante souscrivait aux préoccupations mentionnées dans la proposition des
États-Unis, en particulier celles concernant les réglementations internes trop lourdes ou
contraignantes, qui pouvaient vider de leur sens, de droit ou de fait, tout engagement d'accès aux
marchés. Elle a évoqué le paragraphe 8 de la proposition dans laquelle les États-Unis disaient que les
réglementations discriminatoires et les formalités complexes alourdissaient les coûts. Elle souhaitaitplus de transparence des réglementations internes et a dit qu'il ne suffirait pas de donner accès dans les
meilleurs délais à des renseignements sur les lois, réglementations et procédures pour régler les
problèmes. Selon sa délégation, il fallait que les réglementations des pays d'accueil ne soient pas plus
restrictives que nécessaire et ne vident pas les engagements de leur sens. En vertu de l'article VI:4, les
Membres étaient tenus de résoudre ces problèmes. Hong Kong, Chine avait aussi jugé intéressantl'avis des États-Unis au sujet des prescriptions relatives à la présence commerciale et demandait qu'on
envisage, dans les négociations, d'éliminer ces obstacles. La question des engagements en mode 4
était importante pour les pays en développement et il fallait faire plus pour accroître la transparenceTN/S/M/4
Page 22
des dispositions régissant l'entrée et le séjour et simplifier les procédures dans l'intérêt des PME, et
l'intervenante a invité les Membres à améliorer leurs engagements en mode 4 durant le Cycle de
Doha. Elle a évoqué la proposition des États-Unis dans laquelle il était dit que les PMA dépendaient
d'un certain nombre de services annexes pour pénétrer des marchés étrangers. Elle pensait qu'en effet
les services financiers, les télécommunications, l'informatique, les services juridiques et comptables etles services de distribution étaient indispensables aux PME. À Hong Kong, Chine, les PME
pouvaient offrir des services dans tous les sous-secteurs et, bon nombre de ces services étaient des
services d'appui au commerce des marchandises, lequel était lui aussi réalisé essentiellement par des
PME. Plus de 96 pour cent des entreprises opérant dans les sous-secteurs de la logistique, des
transports, des communications et de l'entreposage à Hong Kong, Chine étaient des PME et elles
jouaient un rôle important en facilitant les échanges internationaux. L'intervenante a invité les
Membres à prendre des engagements plus généreux dans ces sous-secteurs durant le Cycle de Doha.
94. Le représentant du Venezuela a fait observer, à titre préliminaire, que tous les Membres
paraissaient s'accorder sur le fait que les PME étaient le pilier du développement économique et un
moteur de la croissance. Toutefois, il fallait aussi souligner les différences entre les PME des pays en
développement et celles des pays développés, comme l'avaient fait observer plusieurs intervenants.
Les États-Unis prenaient acte de certaines de ces différences, par exemple lorsqu'ils indiquaient qu'enÉquateur était considérées comme petites entreprises les entreprises de moins de 50 salariés. La
déclaration des États-Unis était encourageante car elle tenait compte de la situation des PMA, mais il
faudrait aussi intégrer le traitement spécial et différencié lorsqu'on parlerait de la concurrence entre les
PME des pays développés et celles des pays en développement. Par exemple, il existait aux
États-Unis un programme d'appui aux entreprises cherchant à exporter vers l'Amérique latine. Celaétait une source d'inégalités, car les pays d'Amérique latine ne jouissaient pas des mêmes avantages
que les États-Unis. L'intervenant souscrivait à la plupart des points de la proposition, mais a souligné
la nécessité du traitement spécial et différencié. En ce qui concerne les réglementations
discriminatoires, les formalités et les difficultés administratives excessives, il serait utile de savoir
quels étaient les documents requis par les ambassades des États-Unis, afin de déterminer si les PMEdu Venezuela qui cherchaient à pénétrer sur le marché des États-Unis subissaient un traitement
discriminatoire.
95. Le représentant du Paraguay a dit que la Barbade avait souligné la nécessité, compte tenu des
différences entre pays développés et en développement, de définir ce qu'était une PME. À son avis, la
proposition de Maurice, dans les paragraphes 8 et suivants, visait à définir le traitement spécial et
différencié et cela figurait au programme des négociations. Il souscrivait sans réserve à cette
proposition. En ce qui concerne la proposition des États-Unis, l'intervenant a relevé qu'elle formulait
une préoccupation et soulignait les différences qu'il y avait en cas d'asymétrie du commerce. La
situation du Paraguay serait plus proche de celle de l'Équateur. La transparence des réglementations
internes était importante et l'intervenant pensait lui aussi qu'il faudrait donner accès à des
renseignements et aux textes. À propos de la rubr ique C de la communication des États-Unis, portant
sur le mouvement des personnes physiques, il a rappelé qu'il était difficile d'entrer aux États-Unis etcoûteux d'obtenir des renseignements. Par exemple, le traitement du formulaire de demande de visa
des États-Unis (sans parler de l'obtention du visa lui-même) coûtait 100 dollars EU, ce qui n'était pas
négligeable pour une PME. À propos du paragraphe 18 de la communication, l'intervenant a rappelé
la question posée par l'Égypte et le débat antérieur concernant ce qu'il fallait considérer comme cadre
réglementaire approprié et a dit qu'il importait de définir le sens des mots "nécessaire" et "nonnécessaire". Pour ce qui est du paragraphe 19 et des secteurs dans lesquels il y avait des négociations,
il lui paraissait important de tenir compte du traitement spécial et différencié, en particulier pour les
PME des pays en développement opérant dans ces secteurs. Il fallait prendre en considération les
besoins de ces entreprises lorsqu'on libéralisait les marchés. L'intervenant a dit qu'il reviendrait
peut-être sur les propositions.TN/S/M/4
Page 23
96. Le représentant du Pakistan a dit que tous les pays, qu'ils soient développés ou en
développement, reconnaissaient l'importance des PME en tant que moteur de la croissance. Il a
rappelé que son pays avait un organisme, appelé SMEDA, qui cherchait à répondre aux
préoccupations des PME. À son avis, le Conseil devrait s'efforcer de s'entendre sur une classification
et une définition des PME, ce qui permettrait de travailler ensuite sur une base commune. S'agissantdu débat sur la transparence, mentionnée au paragraphe 10, et de la nécessité de donner aux PME la
possibilité non seulement d'avoir accès aux renseignements mais aussi de commenter les projets de
réglementation, il a répété que la transparence était importante pour les affaires, mais que le Pakistan
avait des réserves au sujet d'un accord multilatéral prévoyant une consultation préalable. Il a demandé
que les États-Unis développent ce point. En ce qui concerne le paragraphe 12, consacré à la présence
commerciale, et l'idée que la suppression des prescriptions visant le commerce en mode 3 ne devrait
pas interférer avec le droit d'un Membre de réglementer afin d'atteindre des objectifs de politiquenationale, il a demandé que les États-Unis précisent quelles pourraient être les conséquences de
l'application d'une telle idée sur les engagements en mode 3. Se faisant l'écho d'observations
antérieures sur le mode 4 et les difficultés d'obtention des visas, l'intervenant a dit que c'était un grand
problème pour les PME de tous les pays, développés ou en développement, et qu'il fallait s'y attaquer.
On pourrait traiter cette question dans le cadre du débat sur le mouvement des personnes physiques, etpas seulement dans celui des sessions extraordinaires. L'approche proposée par les États-Unis pour la
définition de catégories semblait concerner uniquement les spécialistes hautement qualifiés et les
cadres supérieurs, et l'intervenant a demandé s'ils seraient disposés à élargir cette définition, par
exemple pour y inclure des cadres intermédiaires et des techniciens qui pouvaient répondre aux
besoins des pays en développement. Il a appuyé la demande de l'Égypte qui souhaitait avoir desprécisions sur le passage de la proposition selon lequel les Membres devraient s'abstenir d'imposer des
réglementations non nécessaires au commerce électronique et sur ce que les États-Unis jugeaient
nécessaire et non nécessaire. Les points soulevés aux paragraphes 17 à 19 concernaient en partie des
questions horizontales, car ils évoquaient de nombreux aspects des thèmes de négociation et
pourraient nécessiter une réflexion plus approfondie puisqu'ils préconisaient une libéralisationintégrale et immédiate des services de télécommunication. Commentant les observations de Maurice,
l'intervenant a dit que le Pakistan faisait une distinction entre petites économies et petites entreprises
et que c'étaient deux questions qu'il fallait traiter séparément. Il se réservait le droit de revenir lors
d'une prochaine réunion sur les difficultés particulières des petites économies soulignées dans cette
proposition.
97. La représentante du Canada a souscrit aux observations faites au sujet de l'importance des
PME pour l'économie et le développement et a dit qu'elle reviendrait peut-être sur la proposition de
Maurice. Elle a remercié le Sénégal de ses observations à ce sujet et a pris note du fait que ce pays
avait créé un Ministère des PME. Elle a indiqué que 86 pour cent des entreprises de services du
Canada avaient moins de 50 salariés et que la majeure partie des exportateurs canadiens étaient des
PME, qui dépendaient du commerce extérieur et de l'investissement pour leur croissance et pour la
création d'emplois. Les effectifs des PME représenta ient près de 60 pour cent de l'emploi total du
secteur privé au Canada et leur production représentait 42 pour cent de la production intérieure du
secteur privé. L'intervenante a rappelé que la proposition du Canada sur les PME soulignait que les
obstacles que rencontraient le plus souvent ces entreprises étaient liés à des réglementations
discriminatoires, étouffantes et opaques. Elle a demandé aux Membres d'examiner ces obstacles dans
les négociations en cours afin d'améliorer l'accès des PME aux marchés. Le Canada souscrivait àl'orientation générale de la proposition des États-Unis, mais n'était pas entièrement d'accord sur
l'éventail des engagements qui présenteraient de l'intérêt.
98. La représentante de la Colombie, intervenant pour faire des observations préliminaires au
sujet de la proposition des États-Unis, notamment en ce qui concerne les mouvements de personnes
physiques, a rappelé que les difficultés d'obtention de visas étaient un obstacle que les fournisseurs deservices rencontraient tous les jours et qu'il fallait environ 18 mois pour obtenir un rendez-vous pour
présenter une demande de visa aux États-Unis. Elle espérait que le débat permettrait de faire desTN/S/M/4
Page 24
progrès. Pour ce qui est du mode 4, elle a demandé s'il ne faudrait pas envisager d'autres catégories
de personnel, telles que les représentants de la direction et divers spécialistes hautement qualifiés,
pour aider les pays en développement. Elle a souscrit aux observations de la Barbade concernant la
transparence des procédures régissant l'entrée et le séjour temporaire de personnel et l'information au
sujet de ces procédures, et a dit que les Membres devraient consacrer davantage de temps à cettequestion pour améliorer la situation.
99. Le représentant du Mexique, intervenant pour faire des observations préliminaires, a dit que la
définition d'une petite entreprise n'était pas la même aux États-Unis et dans les autres pays Membres.
Au Mexique par exemple, il existait une catégorie de micro-entreprises, c'est-à-dire les entreprises les
plus précaires, comme les PME paysannes, pour lesquelles le gouvernement cherchait à mettre des
programmes d'intégration dans l'économie nationale. La définition d'une PME était une question qui
relevait de la réglementation interne et le Conseil ne devrait pas chercher à établir une définitionapplicable à tous les Membres. La proposition des États-Unis visait à aider les PME, en particulier
celles des pays en développement, par exemple lorsqu'elles n'avaient pas accès à la télématique. Mais
en fait, les besoins des PME des pays en développement et en particulier ceux des micro-entreprises
étaient encore plus rudimentaires puisque certaines n'avaient pas même de téléphone ou de
télécopieur. L'intervenant a souligné que c'était une question de politique intérieure face à lamondialisation. Lorsque les marchés n'étaient pas encore ouverts, il importait d'avancer avec
prudence et de promouvoir la concurrence à l'intérieur du pays avant d'exposer les entreprises à la
concurrence internationale, afin qu'elles aient le temps de se renforcer. Dans ce domaine les Membres
devraient être très prudents. Les suggestions des États-Unis relatives à la transparence des
réglementations internes pourraient avoir une incidence sur les petites entreprises en raison de leurmanque d'influence, et un accord dans ce domaine devrait aider les PME à obtenir les renseignements
dont elles avaient besoin, par exemple en faisant en sorte que les points d'information soient
accessibles au secteur privé. Les PME devraient avoir un accès direct à l'information, par
l'intermédiaire de ces points, ce qui faciliterait leur travail et leur apporterait une aide concrète. En ce
qui concerne les mouvements de personnes physiques, les fournisseurs étaient très gênés nonseulement par la lenteur des procédures de délivrance des visas, mais aussi par leur coût. C'était une
question qu'il fallait aborder dans les négociations car elle affectait beaucoup les PME. L'intervenant
a dit qu'il étudierait les passages de la proposition concernant la présence commerciale et y reviendrait
peut-être. S'agissant des passages relatifs aux engagements visant les services annexes, l'intervenant a
dit que la libéralisation de certains sous-secteurs avait pour but de créer un effet multiplicateur qui
apporterait des avantages aux PME. Toutefois, cette libéralisation était liée aux négociations et
dépendrait de la situation particulière de chaque Membre. Pour conclure, l'intervenant a souligné qu'ilserait évidemment utile d'améliorer les possibilités offertes dans les différents sous-secteurs, mais
qu'il faudrait mettre l'accent sur les mesures de facilitation et les obligations générales. C'étaient les
politiques économiques nationales qui détermineraient la possibilité pour les entreprises de chaque
pays de se renforcer sur le marché national, dans un environnement relativement protégé, de façon à
pouvoir ensuite soutenir la concurrence internationale sur un pied d'égalité.
100. Soulignant le lien entre la proposition des États-Unis concernant les PME et les articles IV
et XIX, le représentant du Guyana a dit que la question de la définition d'une PME dans les différents
pays Membres ne faisait pas avancer le débat sur les moyens d'accroître la participation des pays endéveloppement. Les Membres les plus grands pourraient aider à surmonter l'obstacle de la définition
pour faire avancer le processus. L'intervenant a suggéré qu'on fasse des conditions décrites dans laproposition des États-Unis l'ensemble minimum des obligations des Membres développés envers les
PME des pays en développement.
101. La représentante du Chili souscrivait aux préoccupations des États-Unis concernant les
obstacles au commerce en modes 3 et 4, qui étaient les principales entraves pour les PME. Souhaitant
avoir des précisions sur le paragraphe 11 relatif à la levée des restrictions concernant la présencelocale (à présumer que les Membres puissent s'entendre sur ce qu'étaient ces restrictions), elle aTN/S/M/4
Page 25
demandé si l'élimination des restrictions se ferait d'une façon discriminatoire à l'égard des grandes
entreprises offrant les mêmes services ou des petites entreprises devenues de grandes entreprises:
continueraient-elles de bénéficier d'un traitement spécial ou cesseraient-elles d'y avoir droit?
102. Le représentant du Brésil, intervenant pour formuler quelques conclusions préliminaires, a dit
que certains obstacles au commerce appliqués à l'échelon intrafédéral étaient particulièrement gênants
pour les PME. Les PME se heurtaient à une prolifération de tels obstacles lorsqu'elles cherchaient à
pénétrer sur de nouveaux marchés. Ces obstacles de caractère réglementaire étaient disparates, voire
contradictoires, selon les provinces ou États infrafédéraux, et ils coûtaient cher aux PME des pays en
développement qui cherchaient à pénétrer sur les marchés des pays développés en mode 1 ou 3. Pour
ce qui est de la transparence et plus particulièrement des consultations sur les projets de règlement, les
pays en développement auraient plus de mal à appliquer de telles mesures et celles-ci n'apportaient
pas des avantages à toutes les PME, car certaines n'avaient pas accès à l'information nécessaire pourcommenter les projets, en particulier dans le cas des réglementations infrafédérales. Cela était
important car les entités infrafédérales avaient souvent de grands pouvoirs de réglementation. Pour
que les obligations de transparence apportent vraiment des avantages aux PME, il faudrait renforcer
les dispositions de l'AGCS y relatives. Les Membres n'avaient notifié qu'un petit nombre de
réglementations infrafédérales affectant l'accès aux marchés depuis le Cycle d'Uruguay, mais cela nesignifiait certainement pas qu'il y avait peu d'obstacles. Pour terminer, en ce qui concerne les
subventions aux PME, l'intervenant a dit que plusieurs pays développés Membres accordaient à leurs
PME des subventions discriminatoires dans tous les secteurs, et même s'il comprenait la justification
de l'aide aux petites entreprises, il ne voyait pas de raison d'en exclure les PME étrangères.
103. Le représentant de Macao, Chine a remercié les États-Unis de leur proposition qui décrivait
les obstacles particulièrement gênants pour les PME. Les négociations relatives aux PME pourraient
être un moyen de rendre l'article IV plus précis, opérationnel et efficace. La définition des PME
pouvait varier selon les Membres.
104. Le représentant de l'Équateur a évoqué la mention faite au paragraphe 4 de la proposition des
États-Unis des différences entre les PME des pays développés et celles des pays en développement, et
espérait qu'on en tiendrait compte dans les négociations bilatérales et multilatérales. S'agissant des
subventions que les pays développés Membres accordaient aux PME, il espérait que la situation serait
précisée et qu'on déterminerait dans quelle mesure il était vraiment possible d'aider les PME des pays
en développement à pénétrer sur les marchés des pays développés, notamment en libéralisant certains
des secteurs qui les intéressaient et dans lesquels il y avait des subventions discriminatoires. Au sujet
du mode 3, l'obligation d'avoir une présence commerciale ne facilitait pas la tâche des PME des pays
en développement. L'intervenant pensait, comme d' autres, qu'il ne faudrait pas se limiter, ainsi que le
proposaient les États-Unis, à certaines catégories de personnes physiques et de services, mais
libéraliser aussi des sous-secteurs comme ceux du tourisme, de la construction, des services
professionnels, de l'informatique et des services annexes. Cela améliorerait les conditions d'accès des
PME des pays en développement aux marchés des Membres développés.
105. Le représentant de la Suisse a souligné que la plupart des Membres qui étaient intervenus
avaient dit qu'il fallait accorder une attention particulière aux PME car elles constituaient le tissu
économique et étaient très dynamiques. La définition des PME pouvait différer selon les Membres et
pouvait aussi évoluer dans le temps. La définition de l'OCDE se fondait sur le nombre de salariés, en
partie parce que le niveau des effectifs évoluait et qu'on avait eu tendance dernièrement à adopter un
seuil plus élevé. Il ne fallait pas attacher trop d'importance à cette question. S'agissant des problèmesque rencontraient les PME lorsqu'elles cherchaient à pénétrer sur des marchés et des enjeux de la
négociation, aucun Membre n'était exemplaire et il y avait encore beaucoup de travail à faire. La
proposition des États-Unis avait aidé à définir les intérêts des Membres et pourrait aussi les aider à
formuler des demandes de fonds pour atteindre leurs objectifs concrets. Pour ce qui est de la
transparence, il importait en effet que les PME aient accès à l'information et à cet égard la Suisse avaitTN/S/M/4
Page 26
des programmes d'information sur la réglementation des importations (programme de promotion des
importations), et le CCI et la CNUCED avaient une activité similaire au niveau international. À
propos de la partie E de la proposition des États-Unis, l'intervenant a dit que les PME ne pouvaient
pas toutes modifier la façon dont elles opéraient pour obtenir un marché dans un pays et que le fait de
devoir recourir à un nouveau fournisseur de services financiers ou de services de télécommunicationpouvait constituer un obstacle, car ces entreprises avaient l'habitude de traiter avec certains
fournisseurs (leur assureur, leur banque ou leur logisticien). Il importait de libéraliser davantage les
services d'amont si l'on voulait améliorer l'accès des PME étrangères aux marchés et cela pourrait
d'ailleurs aussi avoir des retombées positives sur les PME nationales. En ce qui concerne la
proposition de Maurice, l'intervenant a réaffirmé que la Suisse était résolue à tenir compte des besoins
des PMA et des petites économies. Il a rappelé les Décisions de Marrakech et de Doha à cet égard.
La Suisse avait respecté ces décisions dans la formulation de ses demandes, qui étaient équitables ettenaient compte de ces besoins spéciaux. Il fallait faire une distinction entre la taille d'une économie
et sa productivité et la Suisse la faisait. Toujours à propos de la proposition de Maurice, l'intervenant
a dit que l'AGCS contenait déjà des dispositions qui avaient permis de faire des progrès dans les
négociations. Il n'était pas certain qu'un nouveau mécanisme de suivi soit nécessaire et il serait
peut-être préférable d'étudier l'évolution des négo ciations bilatérales et d'agir en conséquence.
L'intervenant craignait que des mécanismes supplémentaires se révèlent moins commodes et
alourdissent le travail du Conseil et ils ne lui paraissaient donc pas nécessaires, compte tenu des
obligations découlant déjà de l'Accord. Il était plus important de se demander si ces obligations
avaient été respectées.
106. Le représentant de l'Uruguay, intervenant à titre préliminaire, a dit que son pays partageait
l'intérêt de tous les autres intervenants pour les PME. Il a rappelé que les procédures de négociation
mentionnaient les PME et que les Membres avaient cherché des moyens d'accroître leur participation.
Le débat permettrait de poursuivre l'échange d'idées et de faire de nouvelles propositions qui, à long
terme, aideraient à déterminer les meilleurs moyens d'aider les PME.
107. La représentante des États-Unis se félicitait que la proposition de son pays ait suscité autant
de réactions. En réponse aux observations concernant la définition des PME, elle a reconnu que
chaque Membre avait son point de vue et a souligné que la définition employée dans sa proposition
était celle de l'administration responsable des petites entreprises aux États-Unis, qui n'était employée
qu'à des fins d'analyse, et qu'il n'y avait aucune raison de se fixer sur une définition fondée sur le
nombre de salariés. Pour ce qui est de la transparence, les dispositions s'appliquaient à toutes les
PME et la proposition des États-Unis à ce sujet était compatible avec les propositions horizontales
concernant la réglementation interne. L'accès à l'information était une première étape indispensable,particulièrement pour les PME qui n'avaient pas de présence commerciale. Les États-Unis partaient
du principe que des dispositions qui permettraient de commenter leurs projets de règlements seraient
utiles pour tous les fournisseurs de services, y compris les PME étrangères. La première étape
indispensable était l'accès à des informations sur la réglementation. Le marché des États-Unis
exerçait une très forte attraction pour les personnes physiques et les États-Unis étaient fiers de leur
libéralisme en matière de séjour temporaire. Leur proposition concernant le séjour temporaire
privilégiait les cadres et les spécialistes, mais ils comprenaient que les intérêts des autres Membres ne
se limitaient pas à cela. À cet égard, il fallait faire une distinction entre les questions qui relevaient de
l'AGCS et les autres. Le passage de la proposition concernant le commerce électronique avait été
rédigé dans ce contexte et c'était dans ce contexte qu'il faudrait examiner les questions soulevées. LesÉtats-Unis avaient depuis toujours cherché à éviter les obstacles au commerce électronique et, selon
l'intervenante, le programme de travail dans ce domaine complétait les travaux menés dans le cadre de
la session extraordinaire. Elle a rappelé que le Groupe de travail n'était pas un groupe de négociation.
Si des réglementations étaient nécessaires, les États-Unis pensaient qu'elles devraient être conformes
aux principes de l'OMC, tels que la non-discrimination et la transparence, et ne pas faire obstacle aucommerce.TN/S/M/4
Page 27
108. Le représentant de Maurice a remercié les Membres qui avaient commenté sa proposition et
l'avaient soutenue. Il attendait avec intérêt la poursuite de ce débat dans les semaines à venir.
Apparemment, chacun semblait d'accord sur le fait qu'il ne pouvait pas y avoir de modèle universel
qui répondrait aux besoins spécifiques des pays développés et des pays en développement.
109. Le représentant des Communautés européennes, présentant la proposition de sa délégation sur
les services informatiques et les services connexes, a rappelé que les CE avaient déjà présenté en
juillet une proposition décrivant leurs intérêts et soulignant la nécessité de préciser les limites de ce
sous-secteur tel qu'il était défini au chapitre 84 de la CPC. Ce débat avait suscité un certain nombre
de questions, d'observations et de demandes d'éclairc issements. Les CE en avaient tenu compte dans
un texte qui pourrait servir de base pour un mémorandum d'accord sur la portée du chapitre 84 de la
CPC, qui avait été distribué sous la cote TN/S/W/6. Ce n'était qu'un projet qui visait à alimenter le
débat et non à redéfinir ce sous-secteur, dont la définition resterait celle du chapitre 84. Le texteproposé expliquerait en termes clairs quels étaient les services englobés dans le chapitre 84, non pas
sous la forme d'une liste exhaustive qui deviendrait inévitablement dépassée, mais plutôt au moyen
d'une approche fonctionnelle. Les Membres pourraient indiquer dans la colonne sectorielle des listes
d'engagements, à la rubrique CPC 84 (Services informatiques et services connexes), qu'ils
souscrivaient à cette formule, laquelle serait annexée à la liste d'engagements spécifiques.
110. Le représentant de Djibouti a demandé qu'on traduise la proposition en français pour qu'il
puisse participer au débat.
111. Le représentant du Pakistan a demandé quelles seraient les incidences d'une définition
fonctionnelle, par opposition à une définition normative, compte tenu de l'expansion des services
informatiques et des services connexes. À son avis, il n'était pas nécessaire d'établir des catégories enraison de la rapidité de l'évolution technique. Il se demandait en outre si l'approche proposée par les
CE était la seule possible et si elle ne pouvait pas s'appliquer à d'autres sous-secteurs. Les CE avaient
déclaré qu'elles n'avaient pas l'intention de l'appliquer à d'autres sous-secteurs, mais il se demanderait
comment il serait possible, à l'avenir, d'empêcher un Membre qui le souhaiterait de proposer une
définition fonctionnelle et une entente sur la définition des catégories pour examen par les Membres.
112. Le représentant de la République de Corée a dit que la proposition montrait bien l'importance
de ce secteur et le fait que la rapidité de l'évolution technique rendait floue la définition du chapitre 84
de la CPC, et qu'on pourrait la préciser. À son avis, il convenait d'exclure la fourniture de contenus et
les services de base de la définition des services informatiques et connexes. Il avait relevé, et s'en
félicitait, que les CE n'avaient pas abordé les considérations liées au commerce électronique dans leur
deuxième proposition. À son avis, c'était le Groupe de travail sur le commerce électronique qui
devrait prendre l'initiative à cet égard. La proposition d'annexer un mémorandum d'accord à lacolonne sectorielle lui semblait être un moyen d'intégrer de nouveaux services résultant de la
combinaison des services préexistants, en particulier ceux des rubriques 841 et 842 de la CPC, mais
elle devait être encore affinée. Il ne voyait pas très bien comment on pourrait améliorer la
classification actuelle, étant donné que la proposition visait à réorganiser les services du chapitre 84
de la CPC. Cette proposition lui semblait insuffisan te en ce qui concerne la classification de futurs
services qui n'étaient pas encore au point. Il avait des réticences à l'idée de prendre des engagements
au niveau des positions à deux chiffres, car il faudrait se demander si ces engagements
s'appliqueraient également à des services nouveaux qui pourraient être mis au point à l'avenir. Il
comprenait bien que l'intention était d'accroître la transparence globale des engagements des
Membres. À cet effet, tous les Membres devraient annexer le mémorandum d'accord à leur liste. Cemémorandum d'accord ne devrait-il pas proposer une définition plus qualitative et dynamique afin de
ne pas exclure du champ d'application les services qui n'existaient pas encore? Comment pourrait-on
gérer les contradictions entre les engagements pris dans le cadre du régime actuel et ceux qui seraient
pris dans le cadre d'un tel mémorandum d'accord?TN/S/M/4
Page 28
113. La représentante du Canada a rappelé la proposition faite par son pays sous la cote
S/CSS/W/56. Le Canada examinerait la proposition des CE avec intérêt, notamment pour veiller à ce
que l'éventuel mémorandum d'accord soit totalement compatible avec le document W/120 et la CPC,
car cela serait indispensable pour toute initiative visant à préciser la nature des services informatiques
et des services connexes. L'intervenante a demandé des précisions sur la façon dont on pourraitintégrer un tel mémorandum d'accord dans les listes d'engagements des Membres.
114. Le représentant du Mexique partageait les préoccupations du Canada; il avait des doutes et y
reviendrait peut-être plus tard, et il se demandait en particulier s'il conviendrait d'intégrer dans cette
catégorie les services d'entretien et de réparation du matériel bureautique, car ces services ne
concernaient pas que le matériel informatique. Il a demandé dans quel but il était proposé d'inclure
ces services. Il souhaitait examiner la question des services de maintenance, de l'assistance technique
et de la formation sur le plan bilatéral ou dans le cadre du Conseil. Il a demandé quel était l'objectiffondamental de cette proposition et si l'on ne pourrait pas atteindre cet objectif en employant la CPC
actuelle et en indiquant des positions détaillées fondées sur des classifications nationales ou
internationales.
115. Le représentant de l'Argentine a rappelé la proposition faite par le MERCOSUR et la Bolivie
au sujet des services informatiques. Il était lui-même convaincu de la nécessité de préciser quelles
étaient les activités visées par le chapitre 84 de la CPC et pensait qu'une définition fonctionnelle
devrait se fonder sur les opérations de base considérées comme services informatiques. Il fallait
procéder ainsi pour que les engagements continuent de s'appliquer à ces services de base alors que les
moyens techniques employés pour les fournir évolueraient. Ce qui changeait, ce n'était pas les
services mais la façon de les fournir, qu'il s'agisse de traitement des données, de services d'appui, destockage, etc. L'Argentine pensait elle aussi qu'il fallait veiller à la cohérence des engagements des
Membres qui souscriraient à un mémorandum d'accord et de ceux des autres Membres. Il ne lui
paraissait pas nécessaire d'avoir un mémorandum d'accord car le processus d'échange de demandes et
d'offres montrerait bien quels étaient les services pour lesquels on demandait ou obtenait des
engagements. Pour que tous les services du chapitre 84 soient visés, il faudrait que les engagementssoient consolidés sur la base des différentes rubriques de ce chapitre.
116. Se félicitant de cette initiative, le représentant de la Norvège a dit que les négociations
bilatérales avaient montré la nécessité de préciser le champ d'application des engagements pris dans
ce secteur sur la base du document W/120. Il pensait qu'un mémorandum d'accord fondé sur une
définition fonctionnelle serait un outil utile pour les négociations, qui contribuerait à la transparence et
à la clarté juridique. Sa position se fondait sur la présomption qu'une annexe décrivant les
sous-secteurs serait compatible avec le chapitre 84 de la CPC. Ce texte n'exclurait aucun dessous-secteurs et n'en inclurait pas de nouveaux. L'intervenant pensait lui aussi qu'il ne conviendrait
pas de négocier une annexe de l'AGCS contenant une liste des services relevant du chapitre 84, car
cette liste serait rapidement dépassée par le progrès technique.
117. Répondant à la question relative à la différence entre une définition fonctionnelle et une
définition normative, le représentant des Communautés européennes a dit qu'une définition
fonctionnelle n'était pas une liste exhaustive de services. C'était une définition des fonctions de base
concernées telles qu'elles ressortaient du chapitre 84 de la CPC. La proposition ne modifierait pas la
portée et la nature des services relevant de ce chapitre, mais il importait d'avoir une idée claire des
services visés, car pour fournir ces services, on avait tendance à combiner un nombre croissant de
sous-chapitres du chapitre 84. Certains services récemment mis au point ne faisaient que combinerdes fonctions qui entraient déjà dans le chapitre 84, et les CE n'avaient nulle intention d'élargir ou de
réduire la portée actuelle de ce chapitre. En conséquence, il n'y aurait pas d'incompatibilité entre les
listes des Membres tant qu'elles se fondaient sur le chapitre 84 de la CPC. En réponse à la question
concernant les services de réparation et d'entretien du matériel de bureau et la formation du personnel,
l'intervenant a rappelé que les rubriques 845 et 8425 de la CPC visaient certains services deTN/S/M/4
Page 29
maintenance d'ordinateurs et de logiciels, qu'il ne fallait pas confondre avec les "Services de
maintenance" de la liste des services aux entreprises. De même, en ce qui concerne la formation, la
rubrique 8499 de la CPC ne visait que la formati on du personnel du client à l'emploi du logiciel mis
au point pour ce client, et n'englobait donc pas les stages de formation informatique qui relèveraient
des services d'éducation.
118. Le Président a suggéré que le Conseil prenne note des déclarations, suspende ses travaux et se
réunisse à nouveau comme convenu le vendredi 1er novembre 2002.
119. Il en a été ainsi convenu.
F. EXAMEN DES PROGRÈS ACCOMPLIS PAR LES PARTICIPANTS AU COURS
DES NÉGOCIATIONS
120. Le 1er novembre 2002 le Président a reconvoqué la session extraordinaire du Conseil du
commerce des services. Il a rappelé que l'ordre du jour de la réunion figurait dans l'aérogramme
WTO/AIR/1936. Il a invité les membres du Conseil à passer au point suivant de l'ordre du jour, à
savoir l'examen des progrès accomplis par les participants au cours des négociations.
121. Le Président a rappelé que le but de ce point de l'ordre du jour était de promouvoir la
transparence des négociations et de permettre à la session extraordinaire de s'acquitter de sa tâche en
tant qu'organe responsable de la supervision des négociations. En outre, il permettait aux Membres desoulever les préoccupations qu'auraient pu faire apparaître leurs consultations et de donner leur avis
sur l'avancement des négociations.
122. Le Président a appelé l'attention du Conseil sur une communication présentée par la Bolivie,
la Barbade, la Colombie, Cuba, l'Équateur, le Nicaragua, le Pérou et la Trinité-et-Tobago au sujet de
la mise en œuvre du paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices et procédures pour les négociations sur lecommerce des services, portant la cote TN/S/W/7.
123. La représentante de la Colombie, intervenant aussi au nom de la Bolivie, de la Barbade, de
Cuba, de l'Équateur, du Nicaragua, du Pérou et de la Trinité-et-Tobago, a dit que le but de cette
proposition était de donner effet aux dispositions relatives à l'examen et à l'évaluation figurant au
paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices et procédures pour les négociations sur le commerce desservices. Cet examen et cette évaluation faisaient partie intégrante du traitement spécial et différencié
des pays en développement et des PMA, qui devrait être pleinement pris en considération dans les
négociations. Conformément au paragraphe 50 de la Déclaration ministérielle de Doha et aux Lignes
directrices adoptées par le Conseil en session extraordinaire le 28 mars 2001, le processus de
négociation devrait faire l'objet de différents types d'examen avant l'achèvement des négociations.
L'objectif de ces examens était de donner à la session extraordinaire la possibilité de prendre les
décisions nécessaires pour assurer la réalisation des objectifs définis aux articles IV et XIX:2 del'AGCS en faveur des pays en développement et des PMA. D'une part, il était dit au paragraphe 14
des Lignes directrices que l'évaluation serait une activité continue du Conseil et que les négociations
seraient ajustées à la lumière de ses résultats. L'intervenante a répété que cela supposait une
évaluation continue faite par le Conseil, en particulier à la lumière des objectifs de l'article IV. Une
fois achevée l'évaluation prévue à l'article XIX:3 de l'AGCS, le Conseil devrait décider quels étaientles ajustements qu'il faudrait apporter aux négociations. Cet examen était essentiel pour les pays en
développement dont certains, comme la Thaïlande et l'Afrique du Sud, avaient montré l'importance
qu'ils y attachaient en conduisant des examens à l'échelle nationale. L'intervenante a rappelé que le
paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices définissait clairement quel était le genre d'examen et d'évaluation
que le Conseil devrait faire durant les négociations. Selon ce paragraphe, pour assurer l'applicationdes articles IV et XIX:2, le Conseil du commerce des services, lorsqu'il examinerait en session
extraordinaire les progrès des négociations, devrait se demander dans quelle mesure l'article IV étaitTN/S/M/4
Page 30
respecté et suggérer des moyens de promouvoir la réalisation des objectifs définis dans cet article.
Dans la mise en œuvre de l'article IV, il faudrait tenir compte des besoins des petits fournisseurs de
services des pays en développement. Le Conseil devrait aussi, avant l'achèvement des négociations,
faire une évaluation des résultats obtenus à la lumière des objectifs définis à l'article IV.
124. En conséquence, et conformément à ce paragraphe, l'intervenante a dit que le Conseil en
session extraordinaire devrait entreprendre deux types de tâches. Premièrement, il devrait examiner
les progrès des négociations pour évaluer dans quelle mesure les engagements spécifiques
correspondaient aux objectifs de l'article IV. Deuxièmement, il devrait faire avant l'achèvement des
négociations une évaluation globale des conclusions formulées au sujet des objectifs énoncés à
l'article IV. La réalisation correcte et effective de cet examen du progrès des négociations et de leur
évaluation avant leur achèvement était une priorité pour les pays en développement. Ce n'était
qu'ainsi qu'on pourrait leur garantir que le traitement spécial et différencié prévu par l'Accord sur lesservices serait une réalité. Les délégations qui avaient présenté cette proposition voulaient donc qu'on
prenne des mesures pour donner effet aux dispositions du paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices en ce
qui concerne l'examen du processus de négociation et l'application de l'article IV. Elles proposaient
que la session extraordinaire établisse un mécanisme d'examen du progrès des négociations, qui
devrait être un des points permanents de son ordre du jour. Cet examen devrait commencer dans undélai d'un mois après la distribution des offres initiales. Pour examiner systématiquement les progrès
accomplis dans les négociations à la lumière des objectifs de l'article IV, il conviendrait d'avoir des
indicateurs qui permettraient d'évaluer les offres par rapport aux objectifs, d'examiner la flexibilité
dont les pays en développement jouiraient en ce qui concerne l'établissement de leurs listes en vertu
de l'article XIX, et d'examiner la question de la priorité à accorder aux besoins des PMA en vertu del'article IV:3 et aux besoins des petits fournisseurs de services des pays en développement, comme
prévu par le paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices. Il importait d'établir des procédures et un
mécanisme d'examen qui se fonderaient sur les données fournies par les Membres. L'analyse de la
façon dont les Membres donnaient effet à l'article 4 serait faite par l'OMC, la CNUCED et d'autres
organisations compétentes. Tous les débats concer nant ce point de l'ordre du jour devraient suggérer
des moyens de rendre opérationnel l'article IV. La façon dont les Membres donneraient suite aux
recommandations devrait aussi faire l'objet d'un examen lors de réunions ultérieures, qui
s'intégreraient dans le bilan qu'on établirait à Cancún, particulièrement au regard de l'article IV. Ce
bilan devait se fonder sur les résultats des discussions et sur les suggestions faites dans le cadre de
sessions extraordinaires du Conseil et devrait donner les orientations politiques nécessaires pour la
suite du processus. Enfin, ce mécanisme pourrait aussi faciliter l'évaluation globale prévue au
paragraphe 15, qui devrait être faite avant la fin des négociations.
125. Le représentant du Brésil, intervenant au nom des délégations des pays membres du
MERCOSUR, c'est-à-dire l'Argentine, le Brésil, le Paraguay et l'Uruguay, a dit que ce nouveau point
de l'ordre du jour offrait aux Membres l'occasion d'échanger des renseignements sur le processus
bilatéral de négociation concernant l'accès aux marchés ainsi que sur l'ensemble des négociations
concernant les services. Cela était bon pour la transparence car cela permettrait aux Membresd'évaluer l'état de la question. Les pays du MERCOSUR s'étaient engagés à fond dans les
négociations sur les services depuis que celles-ci avaient été intégrées dans le Programme de Doha
pour le développement. Cela se traduisait non seulement par les propositions de négociation qu'ils
avaient présentées, individuellement ou collectivement, mais aussi par un énorme effort accompli par
les gouvernements, en concertation avec le secteur privé, pour définir les secteurs présentant del'intérêt pour leurs exportateurs, en tenant compte des objectifs énoncés à l'article IV de l'AGCS.
L'intervenant a ajouté qu'à cet égard le MERCO SUR appuyait la proposition présentée par la
Colombie au nom de plusieurs pays en développement Membres. Dans ce processus, le MERCOSUR
attachait une grande importance au délai fixé au paragraphe 15 de la Déclaration ministérielle pour la
présentation des demandes initiales. Il était satisfait de voir qu'un certain nombre de Membres avaientrespecté ce délai, si bien que les négociations sur l'accès aux marchés des services était bien engagées.TN/S/M/4
Page 31
126. L'intervenant a informé le Conseil qu'au cours des deux semaines précédentes les délégations
du MERCOSUR avaient eu des contacts bilatéraux fructueux avec leurs partenaires commerciaux,
dans le but de clarifier leurs intérêts respectifs en matière d'engagements spécifiques ainsi qu'en ce qui
concerne des questions systémiques ou horizontales telles que la classification et les disciplines
applicables aux réglementations. Pour ces dern ières, le MERCOSUR pensait qu'on ne pouvait pas
actuellement négocier sur le plan bilatéral et qu'il fallait plutôt adopter une approche multilatérale
dans le cadre des négociations prescrites à l'arti cle VI:4 de l'AGCS pour les disciplines visant les
réglementations internes. Cela était d'autant plus nécessaire que les Membres s'étaient engagés, au
paragraphe 7 des Lignes directrices, à achever ces négociations avant la fin des négociations sur
l'accès aux marchés.
127. Selon les pays du MERCOSUR, les négociations sur les services avaient progressé de façon
généralement satisfaisante. Toutefois, les Membres ne devaient pas perdre de vue l'ensemble ducycle. À cet égard, il était préoccupant de constater que, contrairement à ce qui se passait dans le
domaine des services, les négociations portant sur plusieurs autres questions importantes, en
particulier du point de vue des pays en développement, n'avaient pas assez progressé. Cela valait en
particulier pour les questions de mise en œuvre relevant du paragraphe 12 de la Déclaration de Doha
ainsi que pour le traitement spécial et différencié. Le MERCOSUR espérait qu'on respecterait aussiles délais fixés pour le règlement de ces questions. Comme chacun le savait, pour les pays du
MERCOSUR, le plus important des thèmes du Prog ramme de Doha était celui de l'agriculture.
Malheureusement, dans ce domaine, ce qu'on avait observé jusqu'à présent était très décevant par
rapport à l'engagement dont la plupart des Membres avaient fait preuve dans le domaine des services,
évoquant à de nombreuses reprises des scénarios de double dividende et l'amélioration de l'efficiencede l'allocation des ressources. Pour une raison ou une autre, dans le domaine de l'agriculture il
semblait que tous ces principes de la théorie économi que ne s'appliquaient tout simplement pas. Il
était inconcevable qu'au stade actuel des négociations, les producteurs agricoles les moins efficients
étaient ceux qui détenaient les plus fortes parts du marché mondial. Selon l'intervenant, un certain
nombre de Membres clés avaient manifestement été réticents dans ce domaine. C'était tout l'opposéde ce qu'on avait pu constater dans le domaine des services. Il était clair pour quiconque que si l'on
n'obtenait pas des résultats significatifs dans le domaine de l'agriculture, la réalisation du Programme
de Doha pour le développement serait compromise. L'intervenant a rappelé qu'à l'approche du délai
du 31 mars 2003 fixé pour la présentation des offres initiales concernant les services et pour la
définition des modalités de négociation sur l'agriculture, le MERCOSUR s'attendait à un certain
équilibre entre ces deux volets des négociations. Cela était essentiel pour que les négociations
concernant tous les secteurs visés par l'engagement unique progressent de façon harmonieuse,c'est-à-dire à des rythmes comparables et sur le fond.
128. Le représentant de la Norvège, intervenant au sujet des deux semaines de réunions bilatérales
qui venaient de s'écouler, a dit que les négociations avaient été très complètes et axées sur les
résultats, et qu'il y avait eu un très grand nombre de rencontres bilatérales, la Norvège elle-même
ayant participé à plus de 30 rencontres de ce type. Une grande partie des réunions informellesfaisaient avancer le débat de façon constructive. L'atmosphère des négociations était très positive et
les résultats encourageants qu'avaient enregistrés les Membres grâce à la libéralisation intervenue
depuis le Cycle d'Uruguay les avaient incités à se montrer disposés à élargir le champ de la
libéralisation. Il y avait eu un dialogue constructif avec les Membres en développement au sujet des
moyens d'obtenir des résultats concrets répondant à leurs intérêts, et la Norvège prenait ces intérêts,tels qu'ils étaient mentionnés au paragraphe 15 et dans l'AGCS, très au sérieux. Elle s'employait à
trouver des moyens de rendre opérationnel le programme de négociation. Elle étudierait de près la
nouvelle proposition. Il y avait eu des réunions bilatérales sur certains secteurs et les participants
avaient manifesté le souhait d'obtenir des engagements supplémentaires dans le secteur des transports
maritimes, de l'énergie, des télécommunications et des services éducatifs. Globalement, ces réunionsavaient donné satisfaction et l'intervenant attendait avec intérêt la poursuite des consultations en
décembre. Il espérait que d'ici là les Membres distribueraient d'autres demandes, car c'était avec cetteTN/S/M/4
Page 32
méthode de travail qu'on pouvait compter obtenir des résultats concrets correspondant aux objectifs de
tous les Membres.
129. Le représentant du Sénégal, intervenant à titre préliminaire au sujet de la proposition
présentée par la Colombie, a dit que cette proposition allait dans la bonne direction. L'AGCS était un
accord axé sur le développement et les engagements qui en découlaient auraient des retombées sur le
développement, en particulier dans le domaine des infrastructures, qui étaient essentielles pour le
progrès socioéconomique. Les articles IV et XIX de l'AGCS visaient expressément les pays en
développement, tandis que les autres dispositions s'appliquaient à tous les Membres. Dans ces
conditions, l'intervenant se félicitait de l'initiative visant à donner un contenu concret à ces articles
ainsi que des suggestions de travaux à entreprendre dans l'intérêt des PME et des PMA.
130. La représentante de Cuba a dit que la Colombie avait fait une déclaration claire énonçant
clairement les objectifs de la proposition. Pour compléter les observations faites au sujet du
paragraphe 15, elle se fonderait sur les propositions avancées par les pays en développement durant
les négociations, car on avait le sentiment qu'il fallait mettre en place un mécanisme multilatéral pour
assurer une participation croissante de ces pays. Cela n'était pas la première communication
consacrée à la nécessité d'accroître la participation des pays en développement; par exemple, dans le
document S/CSS/W/131, on trouvait les mêmes préoccupations au sujet de l'article IV et de cetteparticipation croissante. L'intervenante avait l'impression que la proposition en question avait le
même but et elle accueillait avec intérêt la suggestion d'améliorer le suivi, comme le prévoyaient les
Lignes directrices. Il importait de souligner que cette proposition visait à compléter les discussions
bilatérales des pays en développement. Dans certains cas, les négociations bilatérales n'étaient pas à
l'avantage des pays en développement et cela expliquait pourquoi bon nombre de ces pays préféraientprésenter des communications. Rappelant la déclaration du Brésil, l'intervenante a dit qu'en effet il y
avait des domaines dans lesquels on ne voyait pas les résultats espérés, qui étaient très importants
pour les pays en développement. Elle a rappelé la nécessité d'obtenir des résultats équilibrés,
particulièrement en ce qui concerne les intérêts des pays en développement.
131. Relevant que la nouvelle proposition était axée sur les travaux qu'il fallait faire au titre de ce
point de l'ordre du jour et définissait un cadre pour un examen permanent, le représentant de la
Malaisie a dit qu'il en appuyait le principe. Depuis la présentation des demandes initiales, la Malaisie
pensait que le délai pour les offres initiales (mars 2003) avait un caractère indicatif et qu'il fallaitl'interpréter à la lumière de l'évolution des négociations. Il faudrait s'abstenir d'exercer des pressions
sur les Membres qui, pour des raisons administratives, ne parvenaient pas à présenter leurs demandes
initiales avant mars 2003, car les demandes pouvaient être remises en tout temps. La Malaisie
présenterait peut-être une demande après ce délai, même si elle s'efforçait de le respecter. Dans lecadre des réunions bilatérales, elle avait rappelé, en particulier aux Membres développés, certains
principes fondamentaux. L'AGCS était un accord axé sur le développement, comportant des règles et
obligations qu'il fallait respecter, notamment celles relatives aux objectifs des politiques nationales.
Certaines demandes impliquaient une modification de certains objectifs de politique nationale, ce à
quoi la Malaisie ne pouvait souscrire, car ces objectifs étaient légitimes. À cet égard, l'intervenant afait appel à la compréhension des Membres et a rappelé que les objectifs nationaux en question étaient
conformes à l'AGCS. Les consultations à l'échelle nationale avaient fait apparaître des craintes au
sujet du degré auquel on pourrait libéraliser le commerce dans le cadre du présent cycle. Les
négociations devaient avoir un caractère progressif et il fallait en tenir compte dans les consultations
bilatérales. Il y aurait d'autres cycles de négociation. En outre, les pressions qu'avait récemmentsubies la Malaisie avaient braqué ses producteurs et si ces pressions se relâchaient, elle aurait une plus
grande marge de manœuvre. L'intervenant a souligné l'importance des articles IV et XIX,
particulièrement en ce qui concerne l'emploi de listes positives des secteurs libéralisés. Il a rappelé
que si son pays ne prenait pas d'engagements dans un secteur, cela ne signifiait pas qu'il était contre la
libéralisation, mais qu'il pensait que certains secteurs n'étaient pas prêts à une libéralisation pluspoussée. Sa position tenait compte des réalités et, même si les engagements qu'elle avait pris dans leTN/S/M/4
Page 33
Cycle d'Uruguay pouvaient paraître modestes, depuis 1995 il y avait eu une libéralisation de fait dans
de nombreux sous-secteurs présentant de l'intérêt pour ses partenaires commerciaux. À cet égard, la
question de la libéralisation autonome était importante, de même que celle de la possibilité de
consolider les mesures de libéralisation autonomes. La Malaisie envisageait de le faire, mais elle
tenait aussi à souligner qu'elle n'avait nulle intention de revenir sur la libéralisation en raison desavantages que celle-ci avait apportés.
132. L'intervenant a dit que l'ambition des demandes de certains Membres avait mis les branches
de production nationales sur la défensive et il espérait qu'on pourrait concevoir une approche plus
réaliste des négociations. Il a demandé que les Membres concernés hiérarchisent les secteurs qui les
intéressaient, ce qui faciliterait l'étude de leurs demandes. Il a répété que les demandes trop
ambitieuses soulevaient des difficultés pour certaines branches de production nationales. Évoquant la
déclaration du Brésil, l'intervenant a dit qu'il pensait lui aussi que les négociations sur les services ne
pouvaient pas être dissociées de l'ensemble du Programme de Doha et qu'il ne fallait pas oublier que
l'AGCS était un accord axé sur le développement. Les résultats enregistrés jusqu'à présent n'étaient
pas rassurants, en particulier pour les aspects intéressant les pays en développement, tels que le
traitement spécial et différencié. La Malaisie n' avait constaté aucune évolution dans l'agriculture et
pensait qu'il faudrait faire des progrès dans ce domaine afin de donner un sens plus concret à ce qu'onavait déclaré au sujet du développement. Elle espérait que ses partenaires commerciaux auraient tenu
compte de certaines de ces préoccupations d'ici au mois de décembre. Pour terminer, en ce qui
concerne la logistique et le calendrier des réunions, l'intervenant a dit que la liste des réunions prévues
pour octobre à décembre mettrait à rude épreuve les ressources humaines et financières des
délégations. Il espérait qu'on en tiendrait compte dans la planification des réunions de l'annéeprochaine, de façon que les experts envoyés par les administrations nationales puissent mieux y
participer.
133. La représentante de la Thaïlande, commentant la proposition présentée par la Colombie, a dit
qu'on avait négligé le paragraphe 15 et que cette proposition était concrète et raisonnable. Il faudrait
certes encore l'affiner, mais son orientation générale lui paraissait bonne et elle souhaiterait y revenir àla prochaine réunion. C'était une proposition utile qui serait bénéfique pour les pays en
développement et les PMA. En ce qui concerne le progrès des négociations, l'intervenante partageait
bon nombre des préoccupations du représentant du Brésil, à savoir que si dans le secteur des services
on avançait bien, dans les autres domaines, et en particulier dans celui de l'agriculture, les progrès
étaient moins satisfaisants. Elle espérait que les pays développés clés s'engageraient davantage dans
ce domaine et a répété que l'agriculture était une des priorités de son pays. En ce qui concerne les
règles et les mesures de sauvegarde d'urgence, elle a rappelé qu'il était dit au paragraphe 7 des Lignesdirectrices que les négociations auraient dû être déjà terminées et que le délai avait été repoussé. Elle
a exhorté les Membres à faire davantage d'efforts dans ce domaine. En ce qui concerne les
discussions multilatérales et plurilatérales, bon nombre des questions examinées devraient l'être dans
le cadre multilatéral par souci de transparence. Il y avait eu de nombreuses réunions de groupes
informels et, même si elle comprenait la nécessité pratique de se réunir en petits groupes,l'intervenante exhortait les Membres concernés à info rmer le Conseil des éventuels progrès accomplis.
134. Le représentant du Paraguay a dit qu'il souscrivait sans réserve aux cinq points mentionnés à
la section II de la proposition présentée par la Colombie et à cette initiative. Il a appuyé la déclaration
du Brésil et a ajouté qu'avant Seattle il avait été entendu que les négociations sur les services et sur
l'agriculture devraient avancer de front. Il y avait bien eu des progrès dans le domaine des services,mais on ne pouvait pas en dire autant pour les autres volets du Programme de Doha. Les services
étaient particulièrement importants pour les pays développés, et ils étaient certes aussi importants
pour les pays en développement, mais pour ces derniers d'autres secteurs étaient encore plus
importants. L'intervenant avait l'impression qu'on avançait en quelque sorte à reculons, c'est-à-dire
que dans le domaine de l'agriculture il y avait eu non pas un dialogue mais un monologue alors qu'à laréunion des 18 et 19 novembre il avait espéré qu'il y aurait enfin un dialogue. L'agriculture étaitTN/S/M/4
Page 34
essentielle pour le succès du Programme de Doha et il espérait qu'on pourrait trouver une solution
apportant des avantages à tous les participants. Les débats sur le traitement spécial et différencié
étaient bloqués et les débats sur la mise en œuvre n'avaient eux non plus pas progressé. Le Paraguay
tenait à participer aux discussions bilatérales et multilatérales dans l'espoir de voir des progrès dans
les autres secteurs. Il était encouragé par les progrès accomplis dans le secteur des services, maispensait que le blocage des négociations concernant l'agriculture et d'autres secteurs compromettait la
réalisation du Programme de Doha.
135. La représentante du Chili a rappelé que la question des subventions était particulièrement
pertinente pour le processus d'échange de demandes et d'offres et que, si le but était de libéraliser
davantage le commerce des services, il fallait s'attaquer aux subventions qui faussaient ce commerce.
Le questionnaire simplifié qui avait été proposé était un moyen de promouvoir la transparence et les
consultations bilatérales en étaient un autre. L'information ainsi recueillie pourrait ensuite êtrecommuniquée aux Membres en session extraordinaire ou dans le cadre du Groupe de travail sur les
normes, de façon que tous en aient connaissance. Le Chili ne contestait pas la légitimité des
subventions et l'opération de collecte de renseignements ne mettrait peut-être au jour qu'un petit
nombre de subventions. Si tel était le cas, on n'aurait pas besoin d'élaborer de nouvelles disciplines,
mais on ne pouvait pas l'affirmer avant d'avoir fait un travail de transparence. L'objectif étaitd'alimenter un débat sur les subventions dans le cadre du Groupe de travail de façon à faire des
progrès conformes aux dispositions de l'article XV de l'AGCS, et le Chili pensait qu'on ne saurait
dissocier les travaux de cet organe de ceux de la session extraordinaire. Il s'agissait certes de
processus distincts, mais qui s'influençaient mutuellement. On avait besoin de plus de renseignements
sur les subventions et le Chili déplorait l'opacité des programmes de subventions. Une volontépolitique de transparence ferait avancer les choses. La proposition présentée par la Colombie aiderait
les Membres à s'acquitter de la tâche qui leur était confiée par le paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices,
et l'intervenante a posé deux questions à ce sujet. Premièrement, elle voulait savoir quelle était la
différence entre le mécanisme proposé et ce que les Membres en session extraordinaire cherchaient à
réaliser au titre du point de l'ordre du jour en question. Deuxièmement, en ce qui concerne lesprocédures suggérées, elle voulait savoir quel rôle le Secrétariat jouerait dans l'analyse de
l'information. Pour terminer, elle a appuyé les observations du Brésil concernant la nécessité de faire
des progrès dans le domaine de l'agriculture. Enfin, elle a demandé que les Membres répondent à la
suggestion de la Thaïlande d'établir des rapports de situation sur certaines discussions sectorielles.
136. Le représentant de Maurice a appuyé l'orientation générale de la proposition conjointe
présentée par la Colombie et en particulier la suggestion de créer un mécanisme pour suivre le travail
d'examen et d'évaluation prévu au paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices et procédures pour les
négociations sur le commerce des services. Il a rappelé qu'au début de la semaine Maurice avait
présenté un document sur les petites économies en tant que petits fournisseurs de services. Dans ce
document figurait une proposition concernant l'établissement d'un mécanisme pour le suivi de la mise
en œuvre de l'article IV de l'AGCS. Au moyen de ce mécanisme, on établirait tous les trois mois des
rapports au Conseil du commerce des services en session extraordinaire et au Conseil général sur lamise en œuvre des dispositions des paragraphes 3 et 15 des Lignes directrices, dans l'intérêt des petits
fournisseurs de services des petites économies. Cette proposition ne visait pas à créer un nouveau
mécanisme et le mécanisme proposé dans la communication présentée par la Colombie pourrait
répondre aux besoins en matière de suivi de la mise en œuvre des dispositions concernant les petits
fournisseurs de services.
137. La représentante de Hong Kong, Chine, intervenant au sujet de la demande d'échange
d'informations pour assurer la transparence des négociations, a dit que sa délégation avait participé à
une douzaine de réunions bilatérales et à un certain nombre de discussions entre Membres intéressés
par différents secteurs au cours des deux semaines précédentes. Dans l'ensemble, elle avait reçu une
réponse positive à ses demandes de libéralisation du commerce des services, de la part des Membrestant développés qu'en développement. Elle avait constaté que les réunions bilatérales étaient utilesTN/S/M/4
Page 35
non seulement pour la négociation, mais aussi pour l'échange d'informations et la compréhension
mutuelle. Comme ce point de l'ordre du jour concerna it l'échange d'informations, et pour alimenter la
réflexion sur les questions intéressant les Membres collectivement, elle voulait non seulement donner
son impression au sujet des discussions bilatérales, mais aussi indiquer comment ces discussions
pourraient orienter les négociations multilatérales. Par ailleurs, elle était encouragée par le fait qu'unassez grand nombre de Membres en développement lui avaient adressé leurs demandes d'engagements
spécifiques ou lui avaient fait savoir qu'ils étaient en train d'élaborer de telles demandes, et que
beaucoup d'entre eux avaient envoyé à Genève des experts sectoriels pour les discussions bilatérales.
Elle avait l'impression que de façon générale les Membres étaient disposés à engager des négociations
pour tirer parti de tous les avantages que pourrait apporter la libéralisation du commerce des services.
À cet égard, sa délégation remerciait la Colombie et les autres auteurs de la proposition. Elle avait
pris note de l'importance attachée par les précédents intervenants aux objectifs de politique nationale.
138. À en juger d'après l'expérience de Hong Kong, Chine, l'intervenante était fermement
convaincue que la libéralisation du commerce des services n'aurait que des avantages pour tous les
intéressés. Lorsqu'un Membre libéralisait ses services, cela était non seulement dans l'intérêt de ses
partenaires commerciaux, mais aussi dans son propre intérêt, car le dynamisme qui en résultait
apportait des avantages à l'ensemble de l'économie et en particulier au secteur manufacturier, qui étaitle secteur d'activité le plus important de nombreux Membres en développement, et au commerce des
marchandises de façon plus générale. Pour ce qui est des négociations sur l'accès aux marchés et le
traitement national, la clarification des demandes avait bien avancé, de même que l'échange de
renseignements au sujet des régimes en vigueur dans différents sous-secteurs des services et de la
justification des restrictions qui avaient été recensées. À cet égard, l'intervenante pouvait dire avecsatisfaction que de nombreux partenaires bilatéraux de Hong Kong, Chine avaient indiqué que leur
régime était déjà plus libéral que ne le prévoyaient les engagements qu'ils avaient pris, et qu'ils
seraient disposés à envisager des engagements supplémentaires à condition que tous leurs partenaires
commerciaux en fassent autant. Outre les questions de l'accès aux marchés et du traitement national
elles-mêmes, Hong Kong, Chine avait abordé dans ses discussions bilatérales des questions quipouvaient aussi avoir un impact notable sur l'accès aux marchés et le traitement national, telles que les
exemptions du principe NPF et les réglementations intérieures. L'intervenante pensait elle aussi qu'il
importait de veiller à la clarté et à la cohérence des classifications et d'adopter une approche commune
de la classification pour l'établissement des listes d'engagements spécifiques. À cet effet, il fallait
examiner les questions de classification non seulement sur le plan bilatéral et plurilatéral, mais aussi
dans le cadre multilatéral, notamment au Conseil et au Comité des engagements spécifiques, qui
étaient compétents en la matière. Il ressortait clairement des négociations bilatérales qu'une approchecommune de la classification faciliterait la compréhension des engagements et de leur enjeu
commercial. Un consensus sur la classification des services qui n'étaient pas actuellement classés
systématiquement contribuerait aussi beaucoup à rassurer les Membres, ce dont ils avaient le plus
grand besoin pour pouvoir envisager des engagements constructifs. En ce qui concerne la
réglementation interne, l'intervenante pensait que les Membres devaient redoubler d'efforts dans lecadre du Groupe de travail compétent, pour élaborer des disciplines, car les questions de
réglementation, en particulier les prescriptions et procédures de licences et de qualification, étaient
souvent mentionnées dans le cadre bilatéral en tant qu'obstacles potentiels au commerce.
139. L'intervenante pensait que les Membres avaient commencé sur d'assez bonnes bases pour
faire avancer les négociations sur les services, même s'il subsistait des divergences. Elle les a engagésà approcher la question de la libéralisation autonome dans un esprit constructif, pragmatique et
flexible, afin de trouver un compromis amiable, car cette question était de plus en plus mentionnée
dans les réunions bilatérales. Elle les a aussi exhortés à ne pas perdre de vue la nécessité de faire un
gros effort dans le cadre du Groupe de travail sur la réglementation interne, afin de s'acquitter du
mandat des négociations multilatérales concernant les mesures de sauvegarde d'urgence, lessubventions et les marchés publics. Elle espérait que les Membres, en particulier les Membres en
développement, présenteraient davantage de demandes, de façon à assurer l'équilibre des négociationsTN/S/M/4
Page 36
et à ne pas laisser se dissiper l'élan acquis. Elle espérait aussi que des experts des différents secteurs
continueraient de participer aux travaux et que les Membres auraient des débats ciblés sur certains
secteurs. À cet égard, elle souhaitait que le Président donne des indications sur la meilleure façon
d'organiser la participation des experts, de façon qu'elle soit aussi efficace que possible, car cela serait
particulièrement important pour les petites délégations et les experts qui devaient venir de loin. Pourterminer, l'intervenante a dit qu'elle avait pris note du fait que selon certaines délégations les délais
n'avaient qu'un caractère indicatif. Néanmoins, elle espérait sincèrement que les Membres
respecteraient le délai du 31 mars 2003 pour la présentation de leurs offres initiales, de façon que les
négociations puissent se poursuivre sur des bases concrètes.
140. Le représentant du Honduras a appuyé la proposition présentée par la Colombie et a dit qu'il
serait utile de créer un mécanisme multilatéral pour contrôler la mise en œuvre de l'article IV et du
Programme de Doha pour le développement. Cette proposition remettait à l'ordre du jour unequestion qu'on avait quelque peu oubliée. L'intervenant a rappelé que les délais de la présentation des
demandes et des offres étaient indicatifs et a dit que son pays se réservait le droit de présenter des
demandes après ces dates, dans le cadre d'un processus évolutif. Le fait de repousser le délai
permettrait aux Membres de vérifier si l'on avait bien pris en considération leurs intérêts,
particulièrement ceux relevant de l'article IV et des questions de mise en œuvre. Le Hondurass'efforçait de tenir le délai du 31 mars 2003. Les délais ne devaient pas être une contrainte absolue et
il serait possible de présenter des demandes supplémentaires après la distribution des demandes
générales. L'intervenant a appuyé les observations faites au sujet du blocage des négociations dans
certains domaines, comme celui du traitement spécial et différencié, et dans le domaine capital de
l'agriculture. Il fallait avancer dans ces domaines au même rythme que dans celui des services,particulièrement en ce qui concerne l'accès aux marchés. Dans le cadre des négociations sur les
services, le travail multilatéral d'évaluation n'avait guère avancé, de même que les débats relatifs à la
libéralisation autonome, aux mesures de sauvegarde d'urgence et aux subventions. Cela n'était pas
conforme aux intérêts et aux besoins des pays en développement.
141. Le représentant du Venezuela, appuyant la proposition conjointe présentée par la Colombie, a
dit que ne pas appuyer cette proposition équivaudrait à ne pas appuyer une initiative qui était dans
l'intérêt des pays en développement. Cette proposition soulignait l'importance du traitement spécial et
différencié et, comme le prescrivait le paragraphe 50 de la Déclaration de Doha, appuyait des
initiatives qui renforceraient la mise en œuvre du paragraphe 15. L'intervenant se réservait le droit de
revenir sur la suggestion faite dans cette communication pour renforcer l'article IV. Il pensait, comme
la Thaïlande et le Honduras, que les dates limites pour la présentation des demandes et des offres
étaient indicatives et qu'il ne fallait pas exercer de pressions sur les Membres à cet égard. LeVenezuela espérait distribuer ses demandes pour le mois de décembre. En juillet, le gouvernement
vénézuélien avait organisé à Caracas un séminaire sur les négociations concernant les services, dans le
but de créer des synergies entre les différentes institutions publiques et le secteur privé. La semaine
précédente, une délégation de spécialistes des services avait participé aux négociations bilatérales et
l'intervenant espérait qu'une délégation complète pourrait venir à Genève pour participer auxdiscussions de décembre.
142. Le Président a dit qu'il croyait comprendre que les délais fixés pour les offres et demandes
concernaient les offres et demandes initiales. Il avait l'intention de soulever, au titre des autres
questions, la question de la présence d'experts sectoriels pour l'organisation des travaux du Conseil en
session extraordinaire.
143. Le représentant du Taipei chinois a dit que sa délégation avait participé à 18 réunions
bilatérales qui avaient été fructueuses, axées sur des résultats et avaient permis de clarifier la plupart
des points qui suscitaient des interrogations. Les demandes présentées par sa délégation avaient un
réel intérêt commercial et tenaient compte du Programme de Doha. L'intervenant espérait que les
négociations contribueraient à améliorer les relatio ns mutuelles au service du commerce international.TN/S/M/4
Page 37
Le Taipei chinois envisageait pour la réalisation du Programme de Doha pour le développement un
calendrier de dix à 15 ans. Il pensait, comme la Malaisie, que les demandes trop ambitieuses
soulevaient des difficultés, et ses priorités étaient les suivantes: services de transport maritime,
services informatiques et services connexes, distribution, énergie, audiovisuel et télécommunications.
L'intervenant a évoqué les observations de la Thaïlande au sujet de la constitution de nombreuxgroupes informels et, même s'il ne pouvait pas faire de comparaison avec ce qui s'était passé dans le
Cycle d'Uruguay, il pensait qu'il serait utile que ces groupes donnent aux Membres dans le cadre de la
session extraordinaire une idée de leur programme et de leurs intentions. Le Taipei chinois attachait
de l'importance aux délais car ils aidaient à préserver l'élan des négociations, mais ne les considérait
pas comme absolument impératifs. Il invitait les Membres à demander par écrit les précisions dont ils
avaient besoin au sujet de ses demandes.
144. Le représentant des États-Unis, intervenant au sujet de la nouvelle proposition, a dit que
celle-ci soulevait des points qui pourraient être pertinents pour la session extraordinaire, d'autres qui
pourraient être pertinents pour différents Membres, et d'autres qui n'étaient pertinents ni pour la
session extraordinaire ni pour les Membres, et qu'il reviendrait sur cette question. Pour ce qui est de
la participation des États-Unis aux négociations, des experts sectoriels étaient venus à Genève et il
était encourageant que des experts sectoriels des administrations nationales d'autres Membres, enparticulier de Membres en développement, y aient également participé. L'intervenant souhaitait que
les Membres notifient longtemps à l'avance l'envoi d'experts aux réunions. Pour les États-Unis, les
réunions bilatérales avaient été un bon cadre pour l'échange de vues, les demandes de clarifications,
les premières réactions et l'examen de questions horizontales comme celles évoquées par le Brésil. Ils
attachaient une grande importance à l'article XIX, en vertu duquel chaque Membre devrait s'efforcerd'offrir un accès effectif à son marché, et pensaient que parfois cela impliquait des engagements allant
au-delà de l'accès aux marchés et du traitement national. L'intervenant avait l'impression que d'autres
représentants partageaient ce point de vue. Il avait constaté que le nombre de demandes avait
augmenté, en particulier celles émanant des pays en développement. Réagissant à la déclaration du
représentant de la Malaisie, l'intervenant a di t qu'il n'était pas conforme aux usages de l'AGCS
d'inverser les demandes. Pour terminer, il a affirmé que les États-Unis étaient et resteraient
pleinement engagés dans tous les volets du Programme de développement, et notamment le volet
agricole.
145. Le représentant de l'Indonésie a dit qu'il souscrivait sans réserve aux cinq points mentionnés à
la section II de la proposition et qu'il attendait avec intérêt la poursuite des débats à leur sujet lors de
la prochaine réunion. Pour ce qui est des progrès des négociations, il a informé les Membres que son
pays n'avait pas présenté de demande et qu'un certain nombre de questions le préoccupaient encore. Ila appuyé les observations des représentants de la Malaisie et de la Thaïlande concernant les mesures
de sauvegarde d'urgence et le crédit à accorder en échange des mesures de libéralisation autonomes,
qui étaient des aspects importants pour la position que l'Indonésie adopterait dans la suite des
négociations. Il a demandé que les Membres s'accordent sur ces points avant la fin des négociations.
146. Le représentant du Pérou a dit que la proposition présentée par la Colombie fournissait une
base pour la mise en œuvre effective du paragraphe 15 et ne visait pas à rouvrir les négociations sur
les Lignes directrices. En réaction à l'observation du Chili concernant l'analyse des offres par l'OMC
et d'autres organisations, l'intervenant a dit à titre préliminaire que les renseignements seraient
rassemblés à la demande des Membres et seraient purement objectifs. Le Secrétariat ne serait pas
invité à évaluer les offres, car cela était la prérogative des Membres. L'intervenant ne demandait pasau Secrétariat de faire une compilation de renseignements d'ordre qualitatif. Pour ce qui est de
l'analyse des offres, il fallait atteindre les objectifs énoncés à l'article IV, entre autres. Le Pérou restait
ouvert à d'autres suggestions des Membres concernant les moyens d'atteindre les objectifs fixés.
L'intervenant a appuyé la déclaration du Brésil concernant le blocage des négociations sur
l'agriculture et a dit que ces négociations étaient importantes pour son pays, qui était un importateurnet de produits alimentaires et dont les agriculteurs étaient pénalisés par les subventions qui lesTN/S/M/4
Page 38
empêchaient de soutenir la concurrence internationale. Il a rappelé que le délai fixé pour l'adoption
des modalités de négociation sur l'agriculture et pour la distribution des offres initiales était important
et que les Membres devaient prendre au sérieux les décisions adoptées à Doha. Néanmoins, il fallait
faire preuve d'une certaine souplesse à l'égard des Membres qui, faute de capacités techniques, avaient
du mal à respecter les délais. Le Pérou n'avait pas encore distribué ses offres mais espérait le faireavant la fin du mois. L'intervenant était préoccupé par le blocage des travaux du Groupe de travail sur
la réglementation interne, particulièrement en ce qui concerne les mesures de sauvegarde d'urgence et
la libéralisation autonome. Il a appuyé les observations du représentant du Chili concernant la
transparence des subventions aux fournisseurs de services. Comme certains Membres consacraient
une grande partie de leurs demandes à la réglementation interne, il craignait qu'on entreprenne une
analyse approfondie des réglementations internes dans le cadre bilatéral. Les renseignements fournis
étaient utiles, mais il était préférable de les analyser dans le cadre multilatéral.
147. Le représentant de l'Inde a dit qu'il accueillait avec satisfaction la nouvelle proposition, qui lui
paraissait un moyen efficace de faire avancer la mise en œuvre de l'article IV, qu'il approuvait son
orientation générale et qu'il attendait avec intérêt les négociations de fond y relatives. Pour ce qui est
des délais de présentation des demandes et des offres, il a souscrit à l'observation de la Malaisie et a
dit que les Membres devaient s'efforcer de tenir ces délais, mais que cela serait impossible à certainsMembres en développement en raison de l'insuffisance de leurs capacités. Pour terminer, il a appuyé
la déclaration du Brésil concernant la nécessité d'un progrès équilibré de tous les volets du
Programme de Doha.
148. Le représentant des Communautés européennes a réaffirmé l'attachement des CE à tous les
volets du Programme de Doha. Pour ce qui est des services, les CE avaient eu plusieurs réunions
bilatérales qui s'étaient révélées fécondes, avaient permis de préciser les différentes demandes et de
mieux comprendre la position des Membres concernant les questions horizontales, et avaient aussi été
l'occasion d'avoir des discussions de fond dans certains secteurs. Il fallait se féliciter que des experts
sectoriels des administrations nationales, en particulier de pays en développement, aient pu participer
à ces discussions, et l'intervenant proposait qu'on mette l'accent en décembre sur les secteurs quin'avaient pas été traités à fond en octobre. Il a demandé que les Membres notifient à l'avance l'envoi
d'experts. Il reconnaissait la nécessité de faire des progrès en ce qui concerne la libéralisation
autonome et les modalités visant les PMA et d'achever les négociations à ce sujet dans les meilleurs
délais. Il reviendrait sur la proposition à la prochaine réunion.
149. Le représentant du Pakistan a dit que les observations du représentant du Brésil rappelaient
qu'il ne fallait pas perdre de vue l'ensemble des négociations. En ce qui concerne le rythme des
négociations, le nombre de demandes et d'offres présentées était certes important, mais ce n'était pasle seul aspect pertinent et l'intervenant a rappelé d'autres objectifs énoncés dans l'Accord de
Marrakech et le préambule de l'AGCS. Il ne fallait pas oublier l'aspect politique des travaux menés
dans le cadre de la session extraordinaire. L'intervenant a rappelé que plusieurs Membres avaient
demandé au Conseil de ne pas oublier l'importance d'autres volets du Programme de Doha concernant
le développement, par exemple l'agriculture, le traitement spécial et différencié et les questions demise en œuvre. La proposition conjointe présent ée par la Colombie lui rappelait une communication
présentée en décembre 2001 sous la cote S/CSS/W/131 par Cuba, le Pakistan, le Sénégal, Sri Lanka,
la Tanzanie, l'Ouganda, la Zambie et le Zimbabwe, qui évoquait aussi la nécessité d'accroître la
participation des pays en développement au commerce des services et les moyens de donner un
contenu concret à l'article IV. Cette communication contenait une réflexion sur les considérations quiétaient à l'origine des dispositions de l'article IV et des recommandations concrètes à l'intention du
Conseil du commerce des services concernant les mesures à prendre avant et pendant les négociations
sur l'accès aux marchés et la mise en place d'un mécanisme de suivi. L'intervenant soulignait cette
étroite concordance entre les communications S/TN/W/7 et S/CSS/W/131 car la teneur et la
justification de l'article IV n'avaient pas changé et la seule différence était que les négociations surl'accès aux marchés avaient commencé. Il se félicitait qu'on ait entrepris un examen et a rappelé qu'ilTN/S/M/4
Page 39
était prématuré d'espérer des résultats dès les premières réunions. La proposition contenait un
mécanisme pour la présentation des offres, qui lui paraissait judicieux.
150. En ce qui concerne ce qu'on pouvait attendre de l'examen, l'intervenant a dit que les efforts de
quantification du commerce des services avaient permis de rassembler certains renseignements, qu'il
était proposé maintenant de créer un mécanisme d'examen et qu'il y aurait à l'avenir une évaluation.L'examen, la collecte d'informations et l'évaluation étaient certes liés entre eux, mais il ne fallait pas
les confondre et il importait de comprendre clairement les objectifs de chacune de ces opérations. En
réponse à la déclaration de la Malaisie, l'intervenant a dit qu'il pensait lui aussi que les dates limites
pour la présentation des offres et demandes étaient indicatives et qu'il souscrivait aux arguments
formulés en faveur du respect des objectifs de politique nationale, particulièrement par le biais de la
libéralisation progressive et de la participation croissante. Il a rappelé que, selon l'Accord de
Marrakech, l'AGCS avait pour objectif d'élever le ni veau de vie, de promouvoir le plein emploi et
d'accroître les revenus. Au paragraphe 2, les Membres étaient appelés à faire des efforts positifs pour
que les pays en développement et les PMA puissent s'approprier une part du commerce international
conforme aux besoins de leur développement économique. S'il rappelait des dispositions bien
connues, c'était pour souligner que l'enjeu n'était pas le nombre de demandes ou d'offres, mais des
objectifs politiques plus ambitieux que les Membres ne devaient pas perdre de vue. Les négociationsrelevant de l'article IV ne concernaient pas que l'accès aux marchés, mais avaient aussi d'autres enjeux
et objectifs qui étaient énoncés dans l'Accord de Marrakech. Il fallait que les négociations visent à
atteindre ces objectifs plus généraux du système commercial multilatéral et l'intervenant pensait que
l'AGCS offrait un moyen de promouvoir le développement socioéconomique des pays en
développement et des PMA. Il a appuyé la proposition de création d'un nouveau mécanisme,soulignant qu'il fallait demander aux Ministres, lors de la cinquième session de la Conférence
ministérielle, de donner des orientations politiques pour que les négociations ne soient pas dirigées
uniquement par des considérations d'accès aux marchés et tiennent compte d'autres aspects. Il fallait
que les autres dispositions soient effectivement appliquées.
151. La représentante de la Chine a dit que l'examen et l'évaluation mentionnés au paragraphe 15
faisaient partie intégrante de l'examen et elle appuyait donc la proposition conjointe présentée par la
Colombie. Elle a aussi appuyé les observations du représentant du Brésil au sujet de l'absence de
progrès de fond dans les autres volets du Programme de Doha, qui présentaient un grand intérêt pour
la Chine.
152. Le représentant de la Suisse a informé le Conseil que son pays avait présenté des demandes à
60 Membres et avait eu des réunions bilatérales avec un Membre en juillet et avec un autre Membre
en octobre. Les résultats de ces réunions avaient été plus ou moins satisfaisants, mais globalement lesdiscussions avaient été ouvertes et constructives et l'intervenant en était satisfait. Il était
particulièrement encouragé par le fait que les délégations s'étaient bien préparées, avaient
soigneusement étudié les demandes présentées par la Suisse et étaient solidement représentées. Pour
ce qui est de la nouvelle proposition présentée au titre de ce point de l'ordre du jour, il reconnaissait
que l'article IV était en effet important, mais la façon de le traiter n'était pas encore réglée. La Suisses'était efforcée d'appliquer et de respecter ses dispositions, et pensait que la mise en œuvre pouvait se
faire directement. C'était ce qui avait guidé son approche dans les réunions bilatérales avec les pays
en développement, durant lesquelles elle avait expl iqué comment elle avait mis en œuvre l'article IV.
Cette explication avait parfois suscité un certain scepticisme, mais il serait bon de poursuivre le débat.
La proposition soulevait une question de méthode c oncernant la mise en œuvre d'un paragraphe des
Lignes directrices. Selon l'intervenant, il importait de ne pas réintroduire au stade de la mise en
œuvre des éléments qui avaient été rejetés lors des négociations initiales. À cet égard, il a établi un
parallèle avec l'application des lois nationales: les modalités d'application n'intégraient pas ce qui
n'avait pas été inclus dans la loi elle-même. À son avis, il importait de ne pas surcharger le Conseil
avec des examens systématiques. L'examen courant de l'application de l'article IV pouvait être fait entout temps; d'ailleurs il était fait à la présente réunion et pouvait aussi être fait dans le cadre bilatéral.TN/S/M/4
Page 40
Il y avait des domaines qu'on pourrait explorer, mais aucun Membre n'avait dit que la façon dont la
Suisse mettait en œuvre cet article lui posait des problèmes. L'intervenant était un peu déconcerté par
la partie II de la proposition et a rappelé qu'il avait été convenu dans les Lignes directrices d'examiner
l'application de l'article IV. Les cinq points de la partie II de la proposition le reconnaissaient, mais
visaient à établir un mécanisme d'examen de l'examen. Selon l'intervenant, il serait préférable de s'entenir là et de ne pas surcharger le Conseil. L'article IV était important et la Suisse le respecterait, mais
l'essentiel était de savoir comment et à quelles conditions il était appliqué. Pour ce qui est des
secteurs à traiter en priorité, la Suisse était ouverte à un débat. En ce qui concerne les délais fixés
pour la présentation des demandes et des offres, un délai était un délai et le chapitre de la Déclaration
de Doha consacré aux services ne disait pas que ces délais étaient indicatifs. La Suisse pouvait se
montrer souple avec les Membres qui auraient des difficultés, mais cela ne signifiait pas qu'elle ne
considérerait plus les délais comme des délais. Pour terminer, l'intervenant a dit que son pays tenait àla réalisation de l'ensemble du Programme de Doha.
153. Le représentant du Canada a dit que sa délégation était satisfaite des progrès accomplis dans
les négociations sur les services et que son pays avait eu de nombreuses réunions très constructives
avec des pays tant développés qu'en développement. Il étudierait la proposition conjointe et y
reviendrait en décembre. Pour terminer, il a demandé des précisions au sujet de l'atelier surl'établissement des listes d'engagements et des dates des réunions de décembre.
154. Le représentant du Japon a informé le Conseil que sa délégation avait eu 25 réunions
bilatérales générales et de nombreuses réunions bilatérales et plurilatérales sectorielles. Ces réunions
s'étaient déroulées dans une atmosphère constructive et avaient aidé à préciser de nombreux points.
Dans beaucoup d'entre elles, le nombre d'experts des administrations nationales avait été supérieur aunombre de membres de la délégation japonaise, ce qui était une très bonne chose. Le Japon
chercherait à avoir des consultations bilatérales avec les Membres qu'il n'avait pas encore pu
rencontrer. L'intervenant a demandé que le Secrétariat centralise l'information relative à la venue
d'experts détachés par les administrations nationales. Il a réaffirmé que le Japon était attaché à
l'intégrité de la Déclaration de Doha.
155. Le représentant du Kenya a dit que la nouvelle proposition lui paraissait importante car elle
visait à faire en sorte que les négociations sur les services tiennent compte des Lignes directrices, et il
en a appuyé l'orientation générale. Cette proposition soulignait le fait que l'examen et l'évaluation,
mentionnés au paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices, faisaient partie intégrante du traitement spécial et
différencié des pays en développement. L'intervenant a rappelé le paragraphe 14 des Lignes
directrices et en particulier la nécessité d'ajuster les négociations à la lumière de l'évaluation, ce qui
avait suscité plusieurs observations importantes. La question des moyens de faire en sorte que cesobservations restent pertinentes pour le processus était traitée dans les cinq points de la partie II de la
proposition, qu'il appuyait. Il reviendrait sur cette question avec des observations de fond lors d'une
prochaine réunion. L'intervenant a dit que les délais étaient indicatifs et devraient le rester. Il pensait
lui aussi que l'élan de la négociation sur les services dépendrait des progrès accomplis dans les autres
domaines. Pour terminer, il a appuyé la déclaration du représentant du Brésil.
156. Le représentant du Mexique a dit que la proposition présentée par la Colombie était utile, qu'il
en partageait l'esprit et qu'il attendait avec intérêt la poursuite du débat dans le cadre qu'elle
définissait. Pour ce qui est des progrès des négociations, il importait de trouver un équilibre dans les
négociations sur les services, en tenant compte des besoins des Membres en développement.
L'intervenant pensait lui aussi que le développement était une question horizontale essentielle et qu'ilimportait d'obtenir des résultats équilibrés dans le domaine des services et dans les autres domaines.
157. Le représentant de l'Uruguay, prenant note de la déclaration du représentant de la Suisse, a
rappelé qu'il fallait aussi respecter les délais fixés dans les domaines autres que celui des services.
Dans ces autres domaines, on pouvait soit faire des progrès, soit maintenir le statu quo, soit régresserTN/S/M/4
Page 41
par rapport aux résultats du Cycle d'Uruguay. L'Uruguay pensait que la volonté d'aller de l'avant dans
les autres domaines faciliterait les négociations sur les services. L'intervenant a rappelé la deuxième
phrase du paragraphe 136 du compte rendu de la dernière réunion, publié sous la cote TN/S/M/3, à
laquelle l'Uruguay s'était prononcé en faveur du ma intien de ce point à l'ordre du jour. Il avait
suggéré à l'époque que ce point soit libellé "Examen des progrès réalisés dans les négociations", maisil serait préférable de ne pas parler de "participants", car les négociations étaient ouvertes à la fois aux
Membres et aux pays en voie d'accession. L'intervenant a demandé que le compte rendu de la
présente réunion mentionne qu'il avait répété cette suggestion. Il a aussi demandé qu'on mette un
point après le mot "négociations" et qu'on élimine la mention des "participants", si les Membres
étaient d'accord. À son avis, l'emploi du mot "par ticipants" donnerait l'impression que seuls certains
Membres pourraient participer et ferait oublier que les négociations étaient ouvertes à la fois aux
Membres et aux pays en voie d'accession. Il faisait cette suggestion dans la mesure où elle pourraitêtre acceptée.
158. Le Président a dit que cette suggestion serait examinée.
159. Le représentant de la République de Corée a dit qu'il examinerait la communication et y
reviendrait. Pour ce qui est des consultations bilatérales, son pays avait eu une vingtaine de réunions
et les échanges de questions antérieures à ces réunions avaient aidé à cibler le débat et facilité lacompréhension des demandes. Sa délégation espérait pouvoir tenir des réunions bilatérales dans cette
optique lors de la prochaine série de consultations. Comme les États-Unis et les CE, son pays
souhaitait que les Membres informent le Secrétariat à l'avance lorsqu'ils prévoyaient d'envoyer aux
réunions des experts sectoriels. Il a encouragé ceux qui ne l'avaient pas encore fait à présenter leurs
demandes dès que possible et l'intervenant a dit qu'il importait de respecter les délais pour éviter decasser l'élan du processus d'échange de demandes et d'offres. En outre, il espérait qu'on arrêterait
rapidement les modalités de traitement des mesures de libéralisation autonomes et l'intervenant a dit
que, dans leurs demandes et durant les réunions bilatérales, les Membres avaient demandé à la Corée
de consolider des mesures de libéralisation autonomes qu'elle avait déjà prises, sans laisser entendre
qu'elle obtiendrait en échange un crédit. Selon l'intervenant, il faudrait peut-être que les débats duConseil sur les mesures de libéralisation autonomes donnent des orientations claires.
160. La représentante de la Bolivie a dit que la nouvelle proposition aiderait à échanger des idées
et à mettre en œuvre des décisions adoptées par tous les Membres et énoncées dans différents
documents de l'OMC. À son avis, la participation croissante des pays en développement impliquait
des négociations sur la base du principe d'une libéralisation progressive résultant d'engagements
spécifiques. En ce qui concerne la mise en œuvre de l'article IV, pour obtenir des résultats concrets, il
fallait que le Conseil évalue le processus de négociation. L'intervenante souhaitait avoir l'avis desMembres sur la nouvelle proposition. Elle a appuyé les observations faites par le Brésil au sujet de la
nécessité d'un équilibre global des négociations, du fait que les services ne devraient pas être dissociés
du reste des négociations et de l'importance de l'agriculture.
161. En ce qui concerne les progrès réalisés dans les négociations, le représentant de l'Australie a
dit que sa délégation avait eu des consultations bilatérales avec différents pays développés et en
développement mais qu'il restait encore beaucoup à faire. Dans certains secteurs, les discussions
avaient dépassé les échanges de vues préliminaires et l'on avait commencé à aborder des questions de
fond. Il importait de faire des progrès dans le cadre des organes subsidiaires car le processus
d'échange de demandes et d'offres créait un cadre plus concret pour l'examen des questions. Les
organes subsidiaires et le Conseil auraient un rôle important à jouer en matière de définitions, dequestions techniques et de modalités d'établissement des listes, ainsi que pour le renforcement des
disciplines applicables aux réglementations internes. Lorsqu'on en arriverait à l'étape des offres, les
travaux sur les mesures de sauvegarde d'urgence deviendraient plus pressants.TN/S/M/4
Page 42
162. Le représentant du Nigéria a dit qu'il appuyait l'orientation générale de la nouvelle
proposition, particulièrement en ce qui concerne la nécessité que le Conseil fasse une évaluation pour
veiller à ce que les articles IV et XIX:2 soient effectivement mis en œuvre, conformément au
paragraphe 15 des Lignes directrices. Pour ce qui est des délais, le Nigéria espérait pouvoir
communiquer rapidement ses demandes. À cet égard, il appuyait les déclarations du Brésil et de laMalaisie.
163. La représentante de l'Équateur a remercié les Membres de leur appui à la proposition dont son
pays était un des coauteurs et est intervenue pour réagir aux observations qui avaient été faites. Pour
ce qui est des progrès des négociations, l'intervenante a dit que certaines des demandes présentées
dans le cadre bilatéral traitaient de questions actuellement examinées par les groupes de travail mais
allaient bien au-delà des domaines envisagés. Les résultats qu'on obtiendrait dans le domaine des
services dépendraient des progrès accomplis dans les autres domaines.
164. La représentante de la Thaïlande a dit qu'elle n'était pas d'accord avec les observations faites
par le représentant de la Suisse au sujet du caractère contraignant des délais. Elle a réaffirmé que pour
la Thaïlande ces délais étaient indicatifs et a rappelé que les Membres n'avaient pas tous les mêmes
capacités et qu'il fallait en tenir compte dans le processus d'échange de demandes et d'offres.
Réagissant à l'observation de la Suisse selon laquelle les pays en développement n'avaient pasidentifié de problèmes particuliers concernant la mise en œuvre de l'article IV, l'intervenante a dit
qu'un des objectifs du Cycle était de développer cet article et que la proposition en question suggérait
une démarche concrète dans ce sens. Elle a invité les Membres à examiner les propositions et à y
travailler dans un esprit constructif. Réagissant aux observations concernant l'inclusion de passages
qu'on avait précédemment supprimés dans de nouveaux textes, elle a demandé où les Membresvoyaient que cette nouvelle proposition contenait de telles suggestions. Le fait qu'un passage ait été
biffé ne signifiait pas qu'il n'était pas bon, mais qu'il avait peut-être été nécessaire de l'abandonner
pour pouvoir trouver un compromis en raison de l'ét at des négociations à l'époque. Cela n'empêchait
pas les Membres de proposer qu'on le réintroduise en tenant compte du contexte actuel.
L'intervenante a invité les Membres à étudier la proposition dans un esprit constructif et a demandéaux Membres développés de faire des suggestions.
165. Le représentant du Pakistan a dit qu'il était lui aussi déçu par les observations de la Suisse
concernant les délais. À son avis, pour préserver une atmosphère positive et constructive au Conseil
du commerce des services, il serait très préférable que les Membres ne soulèvent pas de telles
questions controversées. Chacun se souvenait du contexte dans lequel on avait négocié l'article 15 et
l'intervenant demandait à la Suisse de ne pas trop insister sur cette question. Il a réaffirmé que les
délais étaient indicatifs et que l'harmonie entre les Membres à ce sujet pourrait avoir une influence surle respect des délais dans d'autres domaines.
166. La représentante de la Colombie a remercié les Membres de leurs observations positives sur
la proposition dont elle était un des coauteurs. À son avis, cet échange de vues avait permis de faire
connaître les intérêts spécifiques des pays en développement en ce qui concerne la mise en œuvre de
l'article IV. Elle espérait que les observations et suggestions futures seraient faites dans le mêmeesprit constructif. Elle a rappelé que l'intention était de soulever la question et de préparer le terrain
en vue d'un examen de la mise en œuvre des articles IV et XIX:2.
167. Le représentant du Pérou, intervenant au sujet de la transparence, a dit qu'il savait qu'il y avait
eu des réunions autres que bilatérales sur des points particuliers et a demandé que les Membres
tiennent le Conseil informé de ce qui se passait dans ces réunions. Si un Membre n'avait pas été invitéà une telle réunion, il n'était pas nécessaire qu'il y assiste, mais il importait qu'il sache qu'elle avait eu
lieu. La délégation du Pérou avait eu des consultations bilatérales avec celle de la Suisse au sujet de
la réintroduction d'éléments qui avaient été laissés de côté dans l'élaboration des Lignes directrices et
l'intervenant a fait observer que la proposition n'abordait pas cette question. Le Pérou restait ouvert àTN/S/M/4
Page 43
toute suggestion qui viserait à l'améliorer. En ce qui concerne la crainte de surcharger le Conseil,
l'intervenant a dit que ce mécanisme serait simple et n'exigerait pas une session extraordinaire, et qu'il
avait été proposé assez tôt dans le processus pour qu'on puisse en débattre. Quant aux indicateurs à
employer pour faire une évaluation concrète des offres, il n'était pas nécessaire qu'ils soient nombreux
ou compliqués, mais il fallait bien avoir des indicateurs pour garantir que le processus serait mené àterme.
168. Le Président, récapitulant les débats au titre de ce point de l'ordre du jour, a dit que les
nombreuses interventions avaient permis d'avoir un débat de fond très utile. Les Membres s'étaient
félicités de la communication présentée par la Bolivie, la Colombie, Cuba, l'Équateur, le Nicaragua, le
Pérou et la Trinité-et-Tobago sous la cote TN/S/W/7 concernant la mise en œuvre du paragraphe 15
des Lignes directrices et procédures pour la négociation sur le commerce des services (S/L/93). Cette
proposition avait suscité un certain appui, des questions avaient été posées et plusieurs Membresavaient dit qu'ils auraient besoin de plus de temps pour l'étudier et qu'ils y reviendraient à la prochaine
réunion. Les Membres avaient aussi souligné l'importance des travaux menés dans le cadre d'autres
organes qui s'occupaient des services, par exemple en matière de réglementation interne, de mesures
de sauvegarde d'urgence et de subventions, qui étaient des questions qui préoccupaient
particulièrement les délégations car elles auraient d'importantes répercussions sur les progrès de lanégociation elle-même. Il y avait eu beaucoup d'échanges bilatéraux et un grand nombre de réunions,
dont certaines s'étaient révélées particulièrement fécondes du fait que de nombreux spécialistes des
administrations nationales, et en particulier de cell es de pays en développement, y avaient participé.
Cela montrait que les Membres attachaient une grande importance aux négociations, et ils avaient dit
que les progrès des négociations étaient assez satisfaisants et que les réunions bilatérales avaient étémenées dans une atmosphère constructive, ce qui était de bon augure. Ils avaient souligné que les
progrès des présentes négociations dépendraient des progrès accomplis dans les autres volets du
Programme de Doha pour le développement, et ce rtains s'étaient dits déçus et préoccupés par la
modestie de ces progrès, qui pourraient avoir des répercussions négatives sur les négociations sur les
services. Tous avaient exprimé la volonté de s'engager pour aller de l'avant dans tous les domaines dela négociation. Certaines difficultés avaient été mises en lumière, en particulier par les Membres en
développement, qui étaient préoccupés par le caractère un peu trop ambitieux de certaines demandes
et l'insuffisance du temps et des capacités disponibles pour les analyser à fond, et avaient demandé
que les Membres indiquent quelles étaient leurs priorités. En ce qui concerne les délais, on pouvait
dire que les Membres ne les considéraient pas comme une camisole de force, mais qu'il fallait en tenir
compte pour préserver l'élan des négociations. Le Président a suggéré que le Conseil prenne note des
déclarations et revienne sur ce point à sa prochaine réunion.
169. Il en a été ainsi décidé.
G. GRANDES LIGNES DU RAPPORT DU PRÉSIDENT AU COMITÉ DES
NÉGOCIATIONS COMMERCIALES
170. Avant de donner les grandes lignes de son rapport, le Président a informé le Conseil que le
Comité des négociations commerciales avait distribué un mémorandum suggérant que les rapports des
organes de négociation soient établis selon un canevas uniforme. Il suggérait donc que son rapport au
CNC soit divisé en trois rubriques: état des travaux, questions en suspens et travaux futurs. Compte
tenu des débats des deux dernières journées de la réunion, il ferait savoir au CNC que le Conseil
s'était réuni en session ordinaire les 28 octobre et 1er novembre 2002.
171. À la rubrique État des travaux, le Président indiquerait qu'en ce qui concerne l'évaluation du
commerce des services, le Conseil avait eu un débat de fond basé sur un exposé de la libéralisation du
secteur des télécommunications en Afrique australe. Cet exposé avait suscité de nombreuses
questions relatives à la réglementation et à la libéralisation encadrée. Les Membres avaient aussi fait
des observations plus détaillées sur une communication présentée par la Thaïlande en juillet. Enfin,TN/S/M/4
Page 44
ils avaient manifesté le souhait de réexaminer des communications antérieures relatives à l'évaluation.
Le Président indiquerait dans son rapport que le Conseil avait eu une réunion informelle sur le
traitement des mesures de libéralisation autonomes le 16 octobre. Il avait examiné à ce titre quatre
questions et, sans préjudice des autres questions qui avaient été soulevées, il avait fait des progrès en
ce qui concerne la possibilité d'obtenir un crédit sous forme de concessions visant le commerce desmarchandises et les rapports entre la libéralisation autonome et la consolidation. En revanche, les
progrès avaient été moins satisfaisants en ce qui concerne les deux autres questions, à savoir celles du
champ d'application des modalités, particulièrement du point de vue des pays en développement, et de
la situation des Membres récents. Pour ce qui est des modalités de traitement spécial des PMA, le
Président indiquerait dans son rapport que le processus avançait à un rythme prometteur. Les
Membres paraissaient résolus à se mettre d'accord avant la fin de mars 2003. À la rubrique
Propositions de négociation, il indiquerait que les Membres avaient eu un débat de fond sur la basedes communications de trois Membres relatives aux PME, aux services informatiques et services
connexes et aux petites économies en tant que petits fournisseurs de services. Ces propositions
visaient des aspects spécifiques de la négociation et cela montrait peut-être que le processus de
négociation était passé à une vitesse supérieure grâce au début de l'étape des demandes. Pour
terminer, le Président appellerait l'attention du Comité sur la note du Secrétariat établie à la demandedes Membres et récapitulant les offres existantes dans le domaine des services de transport maritime.
Enfin, à la rubrique "Examen des progrès des négociations entre les participants", il reprendrait le
résumé qu'il avait fait à la fin du débat consacré à ce point.
172. Au titre de la deuxième rubrique (Questions en suspens), le Président indiquerait qu'en ce
concerne le traitement de la libéralisation autonome il restait à s'entendre sur la portée des modalités,en particulier s'agissant des pays en développement et des Membres ayant récemment accédé à
l'OMC. Pour parvenir à un consensus, les Membres devraient faire preuve de flexibilité et accepter
des compromis politiques. Le Conseil était conscient de l'importance de cette question et le Président
espérait qu'il aurait assez avancé d'ici à sa réunion de décembre pour pouvoir examiner un projet de
modalités pour adoption. En ce qui concerne les modalités de traitement spécial des PMA, le rapportindiquerait que le Président avait bon espoir qu'on pourrait avancer rapidement une fois que le projet
de modalités que rédigeait un groupe de PMA serait présenté.
173. À la rubrique Travaux futurs, le Président pensait indiquer que la deuxième série de réunions
du mois de décembre durerait deux semaines et serait organisée de façon à maximiser les possibilités
de consultations bilatérales avec des experts des administrations nationales. Il inclurait peut-être dans
son rapport les observations qui seraient faites au titre des "Autres questions". Il rappellerait qu'il
chercherait à avoir des consultations avec les délégations et espérait qu'elles prendraient des initiativesen vue de trouver un terrain d'entente pour ce qui est des modalités de traitement de la libéralisation
autonome. Pour terminer, le Président a dit qu'il informerait le CNC de son intention de convoquer
une réunion informelle sur les modalités de traitement spécial des PMA avant la réunion de décembre
du Conseil.
174. Le Conseil a pris note.
H. AUTRES QUESTIONS
175. Comme il l'avait indiqué au début de la semaine, au titre de ce point de l'ordre du jour le
Président voulait informer le Conseil au sujet de deux lettres qu'il avait reçues, ainsi que de la liste des
points de contact établis dans les délégations à Genève et de la présence d'experts sectoriels venus desadministrations nationales à Genève pour faciliter les réunions bilatérales.
176. Le 21 octobre, le Président avait reçu une lettre de l'Ambassadeur Smith, Président des
sessions extraordinaires du Comité du commerce et du développement. Selon cette lettre, à sa réunion
tenue du 28 janvier au 1
er février 2002, le CNC avait décidé que l'examen de toutes les dispositions deTN/S/M/4
Page 45
traitement spécial et différencié, en vue de les renforcer et de les rendre plus précises, efficaces et
opérationnelles, comme prévu au paragraphe 44 de la Déclaration ministérielle, serait fait par le
Comité du commerce et du développement en session extraordinaire. En conséquence, le Président
des sessions extraordinaires du CCD demandait à être informé des débats ou autres faits nouveaux
concernant le traitement spécial et différencié survenus dans le cadre du Conseil du commerce desservices en session extraordinaire. Cette information devait être transmise au CCD en session
extraordinaire avant le 30 novembre 2002.
177. Le Président avait reçu le 22 octobre une lettre de l'Ambassadeur Jóhannesson, Président du
Groupe de travail du commerce et du transfert de technologie, lui demandant de le tenir informé des
débats, communications et autres faits nouveaux concernant le commerce et le transfert de
technologie survenus dans le cadre du Conseil du commerce des services en session extraordinaire.
Selon cette lettre, le Groupe de travail avait décidé à sa dernière réunion de demander à d'autresorganes de l'OMC de lui fournir ce genre d'information, avant le 20 novembre 2002. Le Président a
dit qu'il avait l'intention d'écrire aux Présidents de ces deux organes pour les informer de tous faits
pertinents survenus au Conseil. Cette information ne préjugerait pas la position d'aucun des Membres
au sujet des questions traitées.
178. Le Conseil a pris note de la déclaration.
179. Le Président a rappelé qu'à la réunion de juillet du Conseil il avait été demandé que les
Membres communiquent au Secrétariat les noms et coordonnées des chargés de liaison de leurs
délégations à Genève afin de faciliter l'organisation des réunions bilatérales. Comme l'avait dit le
Directeur lundi, 84 Membres avaient fourni ces renseignements et la liste avait été distribuée de façon
informelle une semaine auparavant, sous forme électronique ou imprimée. Le Président encourageaitles délégations qui souhaiteraient la compléter à transmettre les coordonnées de leur chargé de liaison
au Secrétariat qui, si nécessaire, distribuerait une mise à jour.
180. La représentante de la CNUCED a informé le Conseil que la CNUCED était en train
d'organiser, en réponse à la demande qui lui avait été adressée par la Commission du commerce, une
réunion d'experts sur le thème "Services audiovisuels – accroissement de la participation des pays endéveloppement". Cette réunion devait se tenir du 13 au 15 novembre au Palais des Nations. Un
certain nombre de représentants des industries culturelles et audiovisuelles devraient y participer.
L'intervenante pensait que cela offrirait une excellente occasion aux négociateurs commerciaux basés
à Genève d'examiner dans un cadre informel toutes les questions qui pourraient les intéresser. Elle
invitait donc les Membres à contribuer au débat. Les principaux objectifs étaient, premièrement, de
définir les options de politique de développement et de politique commerciale qui s'offraient aux pays
en développement pour promouvoir leur industrie audiovisuelle et, deuxièmement, de rechercher desmoyens de répondre à leurs préoccupations dans le cadre des engagements pris par les Membres de
l'OMC pour une libéralisation progressive du commerce dans tous les sous-secteurs des services, tout
en préservant la diversité culturelle. Les intéressés pourraient trouver des renseignements et
documents supplémentaires sur le site de la C NUCED (www.unctad.org), à la rubrique "Meetings"
(réunions). En outre, toujours dans le même domaine et dans le but de promouvoir les échanges de
vues sur les questions pertinentes pour les négociations sur les services audiovisuels, la CNUCED
était en train d'organiser une table ronde de haut niveau qui se tiendrait à la veille de la réunion
d'experts à la salle XXVI du Palais des Nations. Parmi les participants à cette table ronde figureraient
des hauts responsables compétents en matière de commerce international et de culture et des
personnalités influentes du secteur privé et de l'industrie culturelle, venus de pays tant développésqu'en développement. Cette table ronde ét ait organisée conjointement avec l'UNESCO.
181. Abordant la question de l'organisation des travaux futurs, le Président a rappelé qu'il avait été
suggéré à la réunion de mai que les Membres notifient au Secrétariat l'envoi d'experts sectoriels des
administrations nationales pour les prochaines séries de négociations sur les services. CetteTN/S/M/4
Page 46
suggestion était faite dans l'idée que le Secrétariat pourrait centraliser et diffuser l'information de
façon que les Membres puissent savoir bien à l'avance quels experts sectoriels seraient présents à
Genève et disponibles pour les consultations bilatérales. Malheureusement, seules quatre délégations
avaient fourni ces renseignements. Le Président a souligné l'utilité de cette information et la nécessité
pour les délégations de savoir longtemps à l'avance quels experts sectoriels seraient présents àGenève. Le débat sur l'examen des progrès des négociations avait mis en évidence les préoccupations
des Membres à ce sujet. Le Président a invité le Secrétariat à répondre aux demandes antérieures
concernant cette question et l'organisation des réunions futures.
182. En ce qui concerne l'organisation de la prochaine série de réunions, un représentant du
Secrétariat a suggéré, compte tenu de l'atelier sur la formulation des offres initiales qui se tiendrait en
décembre, qu'on organise les réunions de façon à maximiser l'utilité des consultations bilatérales grâceà la présence des fonctionnaires à Genève durant la première semaine de la série de réunions. Laplanification de la deuxième semaine était difficile car le CNC et le Conseil général allaient se réunir
durant cette période. Compte tenu de ces deux considérations, l'intervenant suggérait que les organes
subsidiaires et le CCS en session ordinaire se réunissent durant la première semaine, mais seulement
le matin, de façon à réserver les après-midi à des consultations bilatérales avec les experts qui auraient
participé à l'atelier et seraient toujours à Genève. Ensuite, la session extraordinaire se tiendrait durantla deuxième semaine (c'est-à-dire la semaine du 9 décembre), mais elle n'aurait pas la forme retenue
pour la présente réunion et ne durerait qu'une journée, car le calendrier d'ensemble des réunions de
l'OMC était très serré. L'intervenant a souligné que cet arrangement ne serait valable que pour la série
de réunions de décembre. En raison de la pénurie de salles, il ne pouvait pas encore confirmer si la
réunion en session extraordinaire se tiendrait le 9, le 10 ou le 11 décembre, mais il s'efforceraitd'éviter les chevauchements avec d'autres réunions. Si les membres du Conseil acceptaient cette
proposition, l'atelier se tiendrait comme prévu, les organes subsidiaires et le Conseil en session
ordinaire se réuniraient uniquement pendant les matinées de la première semaine, et le Conseil se
réunirait en session extraordinaire pendant une journée au début de la deuxième semaine. La date
exacte serait confirmée par télécopie.
183. Passant à la question de l'organisation de la participation d'experts des administrations
nationales aux réunions bilatérales, le représentant du Secrétariat a dit que le Secrétariat avait établi
une liste indicative de secteurs en se fondant sur le degré d'intérêt des Membres tel qu'il se traduisait
par le nombre de propositions de négociation pr ésentées. Comme l'approche proposée, c'est-à-dire
que le Secrétariat rassemble et redistribue les informations, n'avait pas fonctionné, on pourrait
envisager soit de réessayer, soit de subdiviser la liste des secteurs en deux ou trois groupes et de
l'envoyer par télécopie avec le calendrier des réunions de décembre pour l'organisation des réunionsbilatérales. Cette liste ne comprendrait que les se cteurs suggérés et l'intervenant souhaitait entendre
l'avis des Membres au sujet de ces deux questions.
184. En ce qui concerne les dates, le Président a dit que la réunion du Conseil du commerce des
services était coincée entre celles du Conseil général et du CNC, ce qui rendait leur organisation
difficile.
185. Le représentant du Mexique a demandé que le Secrétariat donne la lecture de la liste des
secteurs qu'il avait mentionnée.
186. Le représentant du Secrétariat a dit que la liste comptait 12 secteurs et questions concernant le
mode 4, classés en fonction du nombre de propositions communiquées pour chacun: services
touristiques, services de communication, services de distribution, services aux entreprises, services detransport, services financiers, services informatiques, services de construction, mouvements des
personnes physiques, services liés à l'énergie, services environnementaux, services éducatifs et loisirs.TN/S/M/4
Page 47
187. Le représentant de la Malaisie a dit qu'il n'avait pas bien compris si le Secrétariat suggérait
que les réunions bilatérales se tiennent uniquement durant la première semaine ou aussi durant la
deuxième semaine des réunions.
188. Le représentant du Secrétariat a dit que l'intention était d'exploiter au maximum la présence
d'experts des administrations nationales qui se trouveraient déjà à Genève pour l'atelier sur
l'établissement des listes d'engagements, en organi sant des réunions bilatérales durant la première
semaine. Si des experts souhaitaient rester sur place jusqu'à la deuxième semaine des réunions, la
décision appartiendrait aux Membres. La suggestion faite par le Secrétariat prévoyait des créneaux
pour des réunions au début de la période, de fa çon qu'on puisse profiter de la présence des experts.
189. Le représentant de la Malaisie a dit que sa délégation avait cru que des réunions bilatérales se
tiendraient la semaine du 9 décembre, ce qui faciliterait les choses car le Ramadan prenait fin le
6 décembre. Si l'on retenait le scénario proposé par le Secrétariat, des fonctionnaires malaisienspourraient être présents autour du 7 ou 8 décembre, et il réfléchirait à la question.
190. Le représentant du Japon a dit qu'il serait utile que, dans la liste, le Secrétariat suggère qu'on
traite certains secteurs durant la première moitié de la semaine et d'autres durant la deuxième moitié,
ce qui éviterait aux experts de devoir rester à Genève pendant toute la semaine. Par exemple, on
pourrait aborder les services éducatifs du lundi au mercredi et les services financiers du mercredi auvendredi, c'est-à-dire en même temps que la réunion du Comité du commerce des services financiers.
191. Le représentant du Canada a dit que la suggestion du Secrétariat lui paraissait judicieuse
compte tenu de l'organisation de l'atelier.
192. La représentante de la Colombie a souscrit à la suggestion du Secrétariat car les experts des
administrations nationales seraient déjà à Genève. Elle a demandé, pour des motifs budgétaires et en
raison de l'impossibilité de laisser les experts séjourner deux semaines à Genève, que toutes les
réunions soient concentrées dans la première semaine.
193. La représentante de la Nouvelle-Zélande a appuyé la suggestion du Secrétariat.
194. Le représentant des Communautés européennes a dit que sa délégation restait ouverte aux
deux suggestions concernant la participation d'experts des administrations nationales, c'est-à-dire
l'approche fondée sur une liste établie par le Secrétariat ou l'approche selon laquelle le Secrétariat
centraliserait et redistribuait les renseignements. La liste n'aurait qu'un caractère indicatif et les
Membres auraient la possibilité d'aborder des secteurs qui n'y figureraient pas; par exemple, les CE
souhaitaient qu'on traite des services environnementaux.
195. Le représentant de l'Uruguay était conscient de la difficulté d'organiser les réunions et s'en
remettait au Président. Toutefois, il pensait qu'il faudrait éviter que des réunions se chevauchent et a
rappelé en particulier que les Membres devraient avoir le 3 décembre une réunion sur l'investissementet que le Conseil général allait se réunir le 11 décembre.
196. Le représentant de la Malaisie a demandé qu'on s'efforce de limiter autant que possible la
durée des réunions de décembre en raison de l'insuffisance des ressources humaines. Comme l'atelier
se tiendrait du 27 au 29 novembre 2002, il a suggéré qu'on organise aussi des réunions bilatérales
durant cette période.
197. Le Président a dit qu'il appartenait aux Membres de décider comment ils emploieraient leur
temps durant l'atelier.TN/S/M/4
Page 48
198. La représentante de la Thaïlande s'est dite préoccupée par la durée des réunions et ne voulait
pas que les réunions bilatérales s'éternisent. Elle a suggéré qu'on tienne les réunions bilatérales et la
session extraordinaire durant la première semaine de décembre et qu'on remette à plus tard la
communication des rapports des Présidents des organes subsidiaires, ou que les organes subsidiaires
tiennent une partie de leurs réunions en décembre et le reste l'année suivante.
199. Le Président a dit qu'il n'y avait pas de consensus en raison des différentes préoccupations des
Membres, comme la nécessité de ne pas surcharger les délégations, de limiter les frais des délégations
et de faire en sorte que toutes les réunions aient bien lieu, et de tenir compte de l'atelier et des réunions
du CNC et du Conseil général et de la disponibilité des salles, ainsi que des fêtes religieuses. On ne
pouvait pas encore prendre une décision définitive et il a proposé de prendre note de toutes les
considérations et des autres réunions et de se donner le temps de préciser ses idées sur la question, en
tenant des consultations s'il y avait des problèmes majeurs, après quoi il ferait de nouvellespropositions aux Membres. Il croyait comprendre que la participation d'experts des administrations
nationales était considérée comme une priorité et qu'en principe rien ne s'opposait à un remaniement
du calendrier des réunions des organes subsidiaires.
200. Le Conseil a pris note des déclarations.
201. Le représentant du Secrétariat a dit qu'il y aurait une autre possibilité, consistant à remanier le
calendrier des réunions des organes subsidiaires de façon qu'il n'y en ait que deux en décembre 2002
et que les deux autres se tiennent en mars 2003, ce qui libérerait assez de temps pour organiser la
session extraordinaire dans la première semaine. Il a demandé l'avis des Membres.
202. Le représentant des Communautés européennes a suggéré que certaines réunions d'organes
subsidiaires pourraient se tenir durant la même semaine que l'atelier.
203. Le Président a dit que cela serait préférable, mais que c'était impossible faute de salles
disponibles. Il chercherait à se montrer souple et tiendrait compte des autres réunions. Il a invité le
Conseil à prendre note des déclarations et à suspendre la réunion.
204. Il en a été ainsi décidé.
__________
| 33,003 | 220,189 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/r_G_AG_NGEO4.pdf
|
r_G_AG_NGEO4
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DUCOMMERCEG/AG/N/GEO/4
4 juin 2004
(04-2420)
Comité de l'agriculture Original: anglais
NOTIFICATION
La communication ci-après, datée du 20 mai 2004, est distribuée à la demande de la
délégation de la Géorgie .La notification concerne les engagements en matière de subventions à
l'exportation ( tableau ES:1 ) pour l'année civile 2003 .
_______________
Conformément à l'article 18:2 de l'Accord sur l'agriculture, la Géorgie notifie qu'elle n'a pas
accordé de subventions à l'exportation pendant l'année civile 2003.
__________
| 77 | 548 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_IP_N_1CHEI1.pdf
|
Q_IP_N_1CHEI1
|
WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION
ORGANISATION MONDIALE DU COMMERCE
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL DEL COMERCIOIP/N/1/CHE/I/1
7 July 2003
(03-3643)
Council for Trade-Related Aspects of
Intellectual Property RightsOriginal: French/
français/
francés
MAIN DEDICATED INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
LAWS AND REGULATIONS NOTIFIED UNDER
ARTICLE 63.2 OF THE AGREEMENT
SWITZERLAND
The present document reproduces the text1 of the Federal Law on the Protection of
Trademarks and Indications of Source (consolidated ve rsion, status as at 3 October 2000), notified by
Switzerland under Article 63.2 of the Ag reement (see document IP/N/1/CHE/2).
Conseil des aspects des droits de propriété
intellectuelle qui touchent au commerce
PRINCIPALES LOIS ET RÉGLEMENTATIONS CONSACRÉES À LA
PROPRIÉTÉ INTELLECTUELLE NOTIFIÉES AU TITRE
DE L'ARTICLE 63:2 DE L'ACCORD
SUISSE
Le présent document contient le texte1 de la Loi fédérale sur la protection des marques et des
indications de provenance (version consolidée, état au 3 octobre 2000), notifié par la Suisse au titre de
l'article 63:2 de l'Accord (voir le document IP/N/1/CHE/2).
Consejo de los Aspectos de los Derechos de Propiedad
Intelectual relacionados con el Comercio
PRINCIPALES LEYES Y REGLAMENTOS DEDICADOS A LA PROPIEDAD
INTELECTUAL NOTIFICADOS EN VIRTUD DEL PÁRRAFO 2
DEL ARTÍCULO 63 DEL ACUERDO
SUIZA
En el presente documento se reproduce el texto1 de la Ley Federal de protección de marcas e
indicaciones de origen (versión refundida al 3 de octubre de 2000), que Suiza ha notificado en virtud
del párrafo 2 del artículo 63 del Acue rdo (véase el documento IP/N/1/CHE/2).
1 In French only./En français seulement./En francés solamente.IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 2
Loi fédérale 232.11
sur la protection des marques et des indications
de provenance(Loi sur la protection des marques, LPM)
du 28 août 1992 (Etat le 3 octobre 2000)
L’Assemblée fédérale de la Confédération suisse,
vu les articles 64 et 64 bis de la constitution fédérale 1 ; 2
vu le message du Conseil fédéral du 21 novembre 1990 3 ,
arrête:
Titre premier: Marques
Chapitre premier: Dispositions généralesSection 1: Protection des marques
Art. 1 Définition
1 La marque est un signe propre à distinguer les produits ou les services d’une entreprise
de ceux d’autres entreprises.2 Les mots, les lettres, les chiffres, les repr ésentations graphiques, les formes en trois
dimensions, seuls ou combinés entre eux ou avec des couleurs, peuvent en particulier
constituer des marques.
Art. 2 Motifs absolus d’exclusion
Sont exclus de la protection:
a. les signes appartenant au domaine public, sauf s’ils se sont imposés comme
marques pour les produits ou les services concernés;
b. les formes qui constituent la nature même du produit et les formes du produit
ou de l’emballage qui s ont techniquement nécessaires;
c. les signes propres à induire en erreur;d. les signes contraires à l’ordre public, aux bonnes moeurs ou au droit en vigueur.
Art. 3 Motifs relatifs d’exclusion
1 Sont en outre exclus de la protection:
a. les signes identiques à une marque an térieure et destinés à des produits ou
services identiques;
RO 1993 274
1 [RS 1 3]. Aux dispositions mentionnées correspondent actuellement les 122 et 123 de la
cst. du 18 avril 1999 (RS 101).
2 Nouvelle teneur selon le ch. 10 de l'annexe à la loi du 24 mars 2000 sur les fors, en
vigueur depuis le 1 er janv. 2001 (RS 272).
3 FF 1991 I 1IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 3
b. les signes identiques à une marque antérieure et destinés à des produits ou
services similaires, lorsqu’il en résulte un risque de confusion;c. les signes similaires à une marque an térieure et destinés à des produits ou
services identiques ou similaires, lorsqu’il en résulte un risque de confusion.
2 Par marques antérieures, on entend:
a. les marques déposées ou enregistr ées qui donnent naissance à un droit de
priorité au sens de la présente loi (art. 6 à 8);
b. les marques qui, au mo ment du dépôt du signe tombant sous le coup du
1
er alinéa, sont notoirement connues en Suisse au sens de l’article 6bis de la
Convention de Paris du 20 mars 1883 4 pour la protecti on de la propriété
Industrielle (Convention de Paris).
3 Seul le titulaire de la marque antérieure peut invoque r les motifs de refus en vertu
du présent article.
Art. 4 Enregistrement en faveur d’un utilisateur autorisé
Les marques enregistrées sans le consentement du titulaire au nom d’un agent, d’unreprésentant ou d’un autre utilisateur autorisé ne sont pas protégées; il en va demême des marques qui n’ont pa s été radiées du registre, bien que le titulaire ait révoqué
son consentement.
Section 2: Naissance du droit à la marque; priorités
Art. 5 Naissance du droit à la marque
Le droit à la marque prend na issance par l’enregistrement.
Art. 6 Priorité découlant du dépôt
Le droit à la marque appartient à celui qui la dépose le premier.
Art. 7 Priorité au sens de la Convention de Paris
1 Lorsqu’une marque a été légalement dépos ée pour la première fois dans un autre
Etat membre de la Convention de Paris
5 ou que le dépôt a effet dans l’un de ces
Etats, le déposant ou son ayant cause peut revendiquer la date du premier dépôt pour
déposer la même marque en Suisse, à condition que le dé pôt en Suisse ait lieu dans
les six mois qui suivent le premier dépôt.2 Le premier dépôt dans un Etat accordant la réciprocité à la Sui sse déploie les mêmes
effets que le premier dépôt dans un Etat membre de la Convention de Paris.
Art. 8 Priorité découlant d’une exposition
Quiconque présente un produit ou des servi ces désignés par une marque dans une
exposition, officielle ou officiellement reconnue au sens de la Convention du
22 novembre 1928
6 concernant les expositions inte rnationales, organisée dans un
4 RS 0.232.01/.04
5 RS 0.232.01/.04
6 RS 0.945.11IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 4
Etat membre de la Convention de Paris 7 peut se prévaloir de la date de l’ouverture
de l’exposition, à condition que la marque soit déposée dans les six mois qui suivent
cette date.
Art. 9 Déclaration de priorité
1 Quiconque revendique le dro it de priorité découlant de la Convention de Paris 8 ou
d’une exposition doit produire une déclaration de priorité et un document de priorité
lors du dépôt.2 Le droit de priorité s’étei nt lorsque les délais et les formalités fixés dans l’ordonnance
ne sont pas respectés.3 L’inscription d’une priorité ne constitue qu’une présomption en faveur du titulairede la marque.
Section 3: Existence du droit à la marque
Art. 10 Durée de validité et prolongation de l’enregistrement
1 L’enregistrement est valable pendant di x ans à compter de la date de dépôt.
2 L’enregistrement est prolongé, sur demande, par périodes de dix ans, à conditionque les taxes prévues à cet effe t par l’ordonnance soient payées.
9
3 La demande de prolongation doit être présentée auprès de l’Institut fédéral de la
Propriété intellectue lle (institut) dans les douze mois qui précèdent l’échéance de
l’enregistrement, et au plus tard dans les six mois qui la suivent.10
4 ...11
Art. 11 Usage de la marque
1 La protection est accordée pour autant que la marque soit utilisée en relation avecles produits ou les services enregistrés.2 L’usage d’une forme de la marque ne di vergeant pas essentie llement de la marque
enregistrée et l’usage pour l’exportation sont assimilés à l’usage de la marque.
3 L’usage de la marque auque l le titulaire consent est ass imilé à l’usage par le titulaire.
Art. 12 Conséquences du non-usage
1 Si, à compter de l’échéance du délai d’opposition ou, en cas d’opposition de la fin
de la procédure d’opposition, le titulaire n’a pas utilisé la marque en relation avec
les produits ou les services enregistrés, pendant une période in interrompue de cinq
ans, il ne peut plus faire valoir son droit à la marque, à moins que le défaut d’usage
ne soit dû à un juste motif.
7 RS 0.232.01/.04
8 RS 0.232.01/.04
9 Nouvelle teneur selon le ch. 2 de l’annexe à la LF du 24 mars 1995 sur le statut et les
tâches de l’Institut fédéral de la Propriété intellectuelle, en vigueur depuis le1
er janv. 1996 (RS 172.010.31 ).
10 Nouvelle teneur selon le ch. I de la LF du 4 oct. 1996, en vigueur depuis le 1er mai 1997
(RO 1997 1028 1030; FF 1996 II 1393).
11 Abrogé par le ch. 2 de l’annexe à la LF du 24 mars 1995 sur le statut et les tâches de
l’Institut fédéral de la Propriété intellectuelle (RS 172.010.31 ).IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 5
2 Si l’usage ou la reprise de l’utilisation de la marque intervient après plus de cinq
ans, le droit à la marque est restitué avec effet à la date de la priorité d’origine, àcondition que personne n’ait invoqué le défaut d’usage en vertu du premier alinéa
avant la date du premier usage ou de la reprise de l’utilisation.3 Quiconque invoque le défaut d’usage doit le rendre vraisembla ble; la preuve de
l’usage incombe alors au titulaire.
Section 4: Droits conférés par la marque
Art. 13 Droit absolu
1 Le droit à la marque confère au titulaire le droit exclusif de faire usage de la marquepour distinguer les produits ou les services enregistrés et d’en disposer.2 Le titulaire peut interdire à des tiers l’usage des signes dont la protection est exclue
en vertu de l’article 3, 1 er alinéa. Il peut en particulier interdire à des tiers:
a. d’apposer le signe concerné sur des produits ou des emballages;
b. de l’utiliser pour offrir des produits, le s mettre dans le commerce ou les détenir
à cette fin;c. de l’utiliser pour offrir ou fournir des services;d. de l’utiliser pour importe r ou exporter des produits;
e. de l’apposer sur des papiers d’affaires , de l’utiliser à des fins publicitaires ou
d’en faire usage de quelqu’autre manière dans les affaires.
3 Le titulaire peut faire valoir ces droits à l’encontre de tout utilisateur autorisé ausens de l’article 4.
Art. 14 Restriction concernant les signes utilisés antérieurement
1 Le titulaire ne peut pas inte rdire à un tiers de poursuivre l’ usage, dans la même mesure
que jusque-là, d’un signe que ce tiers utilisait déjà avant le dépôt.2 Ce droit de poursuivre l’usage n’es t transmissible qu’avec l’entreprise.
Art. 15 Marque de haute renommée
1 Le titulaire d’une marque de haute renommée peut interdire à des tiers l’usage decette marque pour tous les produits ou les services pour autant qu’un tel usage menace
le caractère distinctif de la marque, expl oite sa réputation ou lui porte atteinte.
2 Les droits acquis avant que la marque ne gagne sa haute renommée sont réservés.
Art. 16 Reproduction de marques dans les dictionnaires et autres ouvrages
de référence
Si une marque est reproduite dans un dictionnaire, un autre ouvrage de référence ou
un ouvrage similaire sans indication du fait qu’ il s’agit d’une marque enregistrée, le
titulaire peut exiger de l’éditeur ou du di stributeur que la reproduction de la marque
soit complétée, au plus tard lors d’une nouvelle impression.
Section 5: Modification du droit à la marque
Art. 17 Transfert
1 Le titulaire de la marque peut la transférer pour tout ou partie des produits ou des
services enregistrés.IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 6
2 Le transfert n’est valable qu’en la forme écrite. Il n’a d’effet à l’égard des tiers de
bonne foi qu’après son enregistrement.3 Les actions prévues dans la présente loi peuvent être intentées contre l’ancien titulairejusqu’à l’enregistrement du transfert.4 Sauf convention contraire, le transfert de l’entreprise implique le transfert du droit
à la marque.
Art. 17 a
12 Division de la demande ou de l’enregistrement
1 Le titulaire de la marque peut requérir en tout temps par écrit la division del’enregistrement ou de la demande d’enregistrement.2 Les produits et services sont répartis entr e les demandes ou enregist rements divisionnaires.
3 Les demandes ou enregistrements divisionnair es conservent la da te de dépôt et la
date de priorité de la demande ou de l’enregistrement d’origine.
Art. 18 Licence
1 Le titulaire de la marque peut autoriser des tiers à l’utiliser sur l’ensemble ou surune partie du territoire suisse pour tout ou partie des pr oduits ou des services enregistrés.
2 A la demande d’une pa rtie, la licence est inscrite au re gistre. Elle devient ainsi opposable
à tout droit à la marque acquis postérieurement.
Art. 19 Usufruit et droit de gage; exécution forcée
1 La marque peut être l’objet d’un usufruit et d’un droit de gage ainsi que de mesures
d’exécution forcée.2 A l’égard des tiers de bonne foi, l’usufruit et le droit de gage n’ont d’effet qu’après
leur enregistrement.
Section 6: Traités internationaux
Art. 20
1 Les traités internati onaux sont réservés.
2 Les traités internationaux auxquels la Su isse est partie qui accordent des droits plus
étendus que ceux prévus dans la présente loi s’appliquent au ssi aux ressortissants
suisses.
Chapitre 2: Marque de garan tie et marque collective
Art. 21 Marque de garantie
1 La marque de garantie est un signe utilisé par plusieurs entreprises sous le contrôlede son titulaire, dans le but de garantir la qualité, la provenance géographique, lemode de fabrication ou d’autres caractér istiques communes de produits ou de services
de ces entreprises.2 L’usage de la marque de garantie est interdit pour les produits ou les services du
titulaire de la marque ou d’une entreprise qui est étroitement liée à celui-ci sur leplan économique.
12 Introduit par le ch. I de la LF du 4 oct. 1996, en vigueur depuis le 1er mai 1997
(RO 1997 1028 1030; FF 1996 II 1393).IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 7
3 Moyennant une rémunération adéquate, le titulaire doit autoriser l’usage de la marque
de garantie pour les produits ou les services qui présen tent les caractéristiques
communes garanties par le règlement de la marque.
Art. 22 Marque collective
La marque collective est le signe d’un groupement d’entreprises de production, de
commerce ou de services; elle sert à distinguer les produits ou les services des membresdu groupement de ceux d’autres entreprises.
Art. 23 Règlement de la marque
1 Le déposant d’une marque de garantie ou d’une marque collective doit remettre à
l’institut
13 un règlement concernant l’usage de la marque.
2 Le règlement de la marque de garantie fixe les caractéristi ques communes des produits
ou des services que celle-ci doit garantir; il prévoit également un contrôle efficacede l’usage de la marque et des sanctions adéquates.
3 Le règlement de la marque collective désigne le cercle des entreprises habilitées àutiliser celle-ci.4 Le règlement ne doit pas contreveni r à l’ordre public, aux bonnes moeurs ou au
droit en vigueur.
Art. 24 Approbation du règlement
Le règlement doit être approuvé par l’ins titut, qui accordera son approbation si les
conditions prévues à l’ar ticle 23 sont remplies.
Art. 25 Règlement illicite
Si le règlement ne remplit pas ou plus les conditions prévues à l’ article 23 et que le
titulaire de la marque ne remédie pas à cet état de fait dans le délai fixé par le juge,l’enregistrement de la marque est nul à l’échéance de ce délai.
Art. 26 Usage contraire au règlement
Si le titulaire tolère, contrairement aux dispositions essentielles du règlement, unusage réitéré de sa marque de garantie ou de sa marque co llective, et qu’il ne remédie
pas à cet état de fait dans le délai fixé par le juge, l’enregist rement de la marque
est nul à l’échéance de ce délai.
Art. 27 Transfert et licence
Pour être valables, le transf ert de la marque de garantie ou de la marque collective
ainsi que l’octroi d’une licen ce concernant une marque coll ective doivent être inscrits
au registre.
13 Nouveau terme selon le ch. I de la LF du 4 oct. 1996, en vigueur depuis le 1er mai 1997
(RO 1997 1028 1030; FF 1996 II 1393). Il a été tenu compte de cette modification dans
tout le présent texte.IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 8
Chapitre 3: Enregistrement des marques
Section 1: Procédure d’enregistrement
Art. 28 Dépôt
1 Chacun peut faire enregistrer une marque.2 Quiconque veut déposer une ma rque doit remettre à l’institut:
a. la demande d’enregistrement avec indi cation du nom ou de la raison de commerce
du déposant;b. la reproduction de la marque;
c. la liste des produits ou des services auxquels la marque est destinée.
3 Pour le dépôt, les ta xes prévues à cet effet par l’ordonnance sont dues.
14
4 ...15
Art. 29 Date du dépôt
1 La marque est déposée dès que les pièces visées à l’article 28, 2e alinéa, ont été
remises.2 Lorsque, après le dépôt, une marque est remplacée ou modifiée de manière essentielleou que la liste des produits ou des services est étendue, la date de dépôt est
celle du jour où ces modifications sont déposées.
Art. 30 Décision et enregistrement
1 L’institut déclare la demande irrecevable si les conditions de dé pôt prévues à l’article
28, 2
e alinéa, ne sont pas remplies.
2 Il rejette la demande d’enregistrement, si:
a. le dépôt ne satisfait pa s aux conditions formelles pr évues par la présente loi
et par l’ordonnance y relative;b. les taxes prescrites n’ont pas été payées;c. il existe des motifs absolus d’exclusion;d. la marque de garantie ou la marque collective ne remplit pas les exigences prévues aux articles 21 à 23.
3 Il enregistre la marque lors qu’il n’y a aucun motif de refus.
Section 2: Procédure d’opposition
Art. 31 Opposition
1 Le titulaire d’une marque antérieure peut former opposition contre un nouvel
enregistrement en se fondant sur l’article 3, 1
er alinéa.
2 L’opposition doit être motivée par écrit auprès de l’institut dans les trois mois qui
suivent la publication de l’enregistreme nt. La taxe d’opposition doit également être
payée dans ce délai.
14 Nouvelle teneur selon le ch. 2 de l’annexe à la LF du 24 mars 1995 sur le statut et les
tâches de l’Institut fédéral de la Propriété intellectuelle, en vigueur depuis le1
er janv. 1996 (RS 172.010.31 ).
15 Abrogé par le ch. 2 de l’annexe à la LF du 24 mars 1995 sur le statut et les tâches de
l’Institut fédéral de la Propriété intellectuelle (RS 172.010.31 ).IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 9
Art. 32 Vraisemblance de l’usage
Si le défendeur invoque le non- usage de la marque antéri eure en vertu de l’article
12, 1er alinéa, l’opposant doit rendre vraisemblable l’usage de sa marque ou l’existence
de justes motifs pour son non-usage.
Art. 33 Décision concernant l’opposition
Si l’opposition est fondée, l’enregistrement est révoqué en tout ou en partie; dans le
cas contraire, l’opposition est rejetée.
Art. 34 Dépens
L’institut décide, en statuant sur l’opposition elle-même, si et da ns quelle mesure les
frais de la partie qui obtie nt gain de cause seront s upportés par celle qui succombe.
Section 3: Radiation
Art. 35
L’institut radie en tout ou en partie l’enregistrement de la marque, lorsque:
a. le titulaire demande la radiation;b. l’enregistrement n’est pas prolongé;c. l’enregistrement est déclaré nul par un jugement entré en force.
Section 4: Recours
Art. 36
1 Les décisions de l’institut en matière de marques peuvent faire l’objet d’un recours
devant la commission de recours en matière de propriété intellectuelle.
2 Les mêmes voies de recours sont ouvertes contre les décisions de l’Office fédéral
du registre du commerce relatives à l’inadmissibilité d’une raison de commerce et dunom d’une associati on ou d’une fondation.
3 Dans le cadre de la procédure d’opposition (art. 31 et s.), la commission de recours
statue définitivement.
Section 5: Registre, publication
Art. 37 Tenue du registre
L’Institut tient le registre des marques.
Art. 38 Publication
1 l’institut publie:
a. l’enregistrement de la marque (art. 30, 3
e al.);
b. la prolongation de l’en registrement (art. 10, 2e al.);
c. la révocation de l’en registrement (art. 33);
d. la radiation de l’en registrement (art. 35).
2 Le Conseil fédéral fixe les autres inscrip tions au registre qui doivent être publiées.
3 Il détermine l’organe de publication.IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 10
Art. 39 Publicité du registre et consultation des pièces
1 Chacun peut consulter le registre, dema nder des renseignements sur son contenu et
en obtenir des extraits.2 Chacun dispose en outre du droit de consu lter le dossier des marques enregistrées.
3 Le Conseil fédéral détermine les cas dans lesquels le dossier peut être consulté
avant l’enregistrement de la marque.
Art. 40
16
Section 6: Poursuite de la procédureArt. 41
1 Lorsque l’institut rejette une demande en matière de marques parce qu’un délai n’a
pas été respecté, le demandeur peut requé rir par écrit la poursuite de la procédure.
L’article 24, 1
er alinéa, de la loi fédérale du 20 décembre 1968 sur la procédure
Administrative 17 est réservé.
2 La requête doit être présentée dans les de ux mois à compter du moment où le requérant
a eu connaissance de l’expiration du déla i, mais au plus tard dans les six
mois suivant l’expiration du dé lai non observé; dans le même délai, le requérant doit
accomplir intégralement l’acte omis et s’ acquitter des taxes pré vues à cet effet par
l’ordonnance.18
3 L’acceptation de la requête a pour effet de rétablir la situa tion qui eût résulté de
l’accomplissement de l’acte en temps utile.4 La poursuite de la procédure est exclue en cas d’inobservation:
a. du délai pour requérir la poursuite de la procédure (2
e al.);
b. des délais pour revendi quer une priorité au se ns des articles 7 et 8;
c. du délai pour former opposition au sens de l’article 31, 2e alinéa.
Section 7: Représentation
Art. 42
1 Quiconque est partie à une procédure admin istrative ou judiciaire prévue dans la
présente loi et qui n’a en Suisse ni do micile ni siège doit dé signer un mandataire
établi en Suisse.2 Les dispositions réglant l’exercice de la profession d’avocat sont réservées.
Section 8: Taxes
Art. 43
1 Outre les taxes prévues par la présente loi, des taxe s doivent être acquittées pour
les prestations de l’institut à la suite de requêtes particulières.
16 Abrogé par le ch. 2 de l’annexe à la LF du 24 mars 1995 sur le statut et les tâches de
l’Institut fédéral de la Propriété intellectuelle (RS 172.010.31 ).
17 RS 172.021
18 Nouvelle teneur selon le ch. 2 de l’annexe à la LF du 24 mars 1995 sur le statut et les
tâches de l’Institut fédéral de la Propriété intellectuelle, en vigueur depuis le1
er janv. 1996 (RS 172.010.31 ).IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 11
2 ...19
Chapitre 4: Enregistrement international des marques
Art. 44 20 Droit applicable
1 Le présent chapitre s’applique aux en registrements internationaux au sens
de l’Arrangement de Madrid du 14 juillet 1967 21 concernant l’enregistrement
international des marques (Arrangeme nt de Madrid) et du Protocole à
l’Arrangement de Madrid concernant l’enregistrement international des
marques du 27 juin 1989 22 (Protocole de Madrid) effectués par l’intermédiaire
de l’institut ou ayant effet en Suisse.2 Les autres dispositions de la présente lo i sont applicables à moins que l’Arrangement
de Madrid ou le Protocole de Madrid et le présent chapitre n’en disposent autrement.
Art. 45
23 Demandes d’enregistrement au registre international
1 Il est possible de requérir par l’intermédiaire de l’institut:
a. l’enregistrement international d’une marque lorsque la Suisse est le pays d’origine au sens de l’article 1
er , 3 e alinéa, de l’Arrangement de Madrid 24 ou
de l’article 2, 1er alinéa, du Protocole de Madrid 25 ;
b. la modification d’un enregistrement in ternational lorsque la Suisse est le
pays du titulaire de la marque au sens de l’Arrangement de Madrid ou du Protocole de Madrid;c. l’enregistrement international d’une demande lorsque la Suisse est le paysd’origine au sens de l’article 2, 1
er alinéa, du Protocole de Madrid.
2 L’enregistrement international d’une ma rque, d’une demande d’enregistrement, ou
la modification d’un enregistrement intern ational donnent lieu au paiement des taxes
prescrites par l’Arrangement de Madrid, le Protocole de Madrid et l’ordonnance.
Art. 46 Effet de l’enregistrement international en Suisse
1 L’enregistrement international prévoyant une protection en Sui sse déploie les mêmes
effets que le dépôt effectué auprès de l’institut et l’inscription au registresuisse.
26
2 Lorsque la protection pour la Suisse est refusée à la marque ayant fait l’objet d’un
enregistrement international, celui-ci est réputé n’avoir jamais eu effet.
19 Abrogé par le ch. 2 de l’annexe à la LF du 24 mars 1995 sur le statut et les tâches de
l’Institut fédéral de la Propriété intellectuelle (RS 172.010.31 ).
20 Nouvelle teneur selon le ch. I de la LF du 4 oct. 1996, en vigueur depuis le 1er mai 1997
(RO 1997 1028 1030; FF 1996 II 1393).
21 RS 0.232.112.3
22 RS 0.232.112.4
23 Nouvelle teneur selon le ch. I de la LF du 4 oct. 1996, en vigueur depuis le 1er mai 1997
(RO 1997 1028 1030; FF 1996 II 1393).
24 RS 0.232.112.3
25 RS 0.232.112.4
26 Nouvelle teneur selon le ch. I de la LF du 4 oct. 1996, en vigueur depuis le 1er mai 1997
(RO 1997 1028 1030; FF 1996 II 1393).IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 12
Art. 46 a 27 Transformation d’un enregistre ment international en demande
d’enregistrement national1 L’enregistrement international peut être transformé en demande d’enregistrement
national lorsque:
a. la demande est déposée auprès de l’institut dans un délai de trois mois à dater de la radiation de l’ enregistrement international;
b. l’enregistrement international et la de mande d’enregistrement national concernent
la même marque;c. les produits et services mentionnés dans la demande sont couverts de fait par
l’enregistrement international ayant effet en Suisse;d. la demande d’enregistre ment national remplit toutes les conditions prescrites
par la présente loi.
2 Les oppositions formées contre l’enregist rement de marques qui ont été déposées
au sens de 1
er alinéa sont irrecevables.
Titre 2: Indications de provenance
Art. 47 Principe
1 Par indication de provenance, on entend toute référence directe ou indirecte à la
provenance géographique des pr oduits ou des services, y compris la référence à des
propriétés ou à la qualité, en rapport avec la provenance.
2 Ne sont pas des indications de provenance au sens du 1 er alinéa les noms ou signes
géographiques qui ne sont pas considérés par les milieux intéressés comme une référenceà la provenance des produits ou services.3 Est interdit l’usage:
a. d’indications de provenance inexactes;b. de désignations susceptibles d’être confondues avec une indication de provenance
inexacte;c. d’un nom, d’une adresse ou d’une ma rque en rapport avec des produits ou
des services d’une autre provenan ce lorsqu’il crée un risque de tromperie.
4 Les indications de provenance régionale s ou locales s’appliquant à des services
sont considérées comme exactes si ces services remplissent les critères de provenancepropres à l’ensemble du pays.
Art. 48 Provenance des produits
1 La provenance d’un produit est déterminée par le lieu de fabricati on ou par la provenance
des matières de base et des composants utilisés.2 Des conditions supplémentaires peuvent être requises, telle l’obs ervation de principes
de fabrication ou d’exigences de qualité usuels ou prescrits au lieu de fabrication.3 Dans chaque cas d’espèce, les critères doive nt être définis en fonction de l’influence
qu’ils exercent sur la renommée des produ its; lorsqu’une indication de provenance
correspond aux usages, elle est présumée correcte.
27 Introduit par le ch. I de la LF du 4 oct. 1996, en vigueur depuis le 1er mai 1997
(RO 1997 1028 1030; FF 1996 II 1393).IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 13
Art. 49 Provenance des services
1 La provenance des services est déterminée par l’un des critères suivants:
a. le siège social de la pe rsonne qui fournit les services;
b. la nationalité des personnes qui exercent le contrôle effectif de la politique commerciale et de la direction;
c. le domicile des personnes qui exercent le contrôle effec tif de la politique
commerciale et de la direction.
2 Des conditions supplémentaires peuvent être requises, telle l’obs ervation des principes
usuels ou prescrits pour les pr estations de services cons idérées ou le lien traditionnel
du prestataire de services avec le pays de provenance.3 Dans chaque cas d’espèce, les critères doive nt être définis en fonction de l’influence
qu’ils exercent sur la renommée des servi ces; lorsqu’une indication de provenance
correspond aux usages, elle est présumée correcte.
Art. 50 Dispositions particulières
Dans l’intérêt de l’économie en général ou de secteurs par ticuliers, le Conseil fédéral
peut préciser les conditions auxquelles une indication de provenance suisse peut
être utilisée pour des produits ou des servic es déterminés. Aupa ravant, il entendra
les cantons et les associations pr ofessionnelles ou écono miques intéressés.
Art. 51 Signe d’identification du producteur
Lorsque les intérêts d’un secteur économique l’exigent, le Conseil fédéral peut instituerl’obligation d’apposer un signe d’iden tification du producte ur sur les produits
de ce secteur.
Titre 3: Voies de droit
Chapitre premier: Droit civil
Art. 52 Action en constatation
A qualité pour intenter une action en cons tatation d’un droit ou d’un rapport juridique
prévu par la présente loi toute personne qui établit qu’elle a un intérêt juridique
à une telle constatation.
Art. 53 Action en cession du droit à la marque
1 Au lieu de faire constater la nullité de l’enregistrement, le demandeur peut intenterune action en cession du droit à la ma rque que le défendeur a usurpée.
2 L’action se périme par deux ans à comp ter de la publication de l’enregistrement
ou, dans les cas visés à l’ar ticle 4, à compter du moment où le titulaire a révoqué son
consentement.
Art. 54 Communication des jugements
Les tribunaux transmettent à l’institut les jugements exécutoires qui entraînent lamodification d’un enregistrement.
Art. 55 Action en exécution d’une prestation
1 La personne qui subit ou risque de subir une violation de son droit à la marque ou
à une indication de provenance peut demander au juge:IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 14
a. de l’interdire, si elle est imminente;
b. de la faire cesser, si elle dure encore;c. d’exiger de l’autre partie qu’elle i ndique la provenance des objets sur lesquels
la marque ou l’indication de provenance ont été illicitement apposées
et qui se trouvent en sa possession.
2 Sont réservées les actions intentées en vertu du code des obligations
28 qui tendent
au paiement de dommages-intérêts, à la réparation du tort moral ainsi qu’à la remisedu gain en vertu des dispositions sur la gestion d’affaires.3 L’emploi d’une marque de ga rantie ou d’une marque collective en violation du règlement
constitue aussi une atteinte au droit à la marque.
Art. 56 Qualité pour agir des asso ciations et organisations
de consommateurs
1 Les actions prévues aux articles 52 et 55, 1
er alinéa, peuvent en outre être intentées
en matière d’indicati ons de provenance par:
a. les associations prof essionnelles ou économiques que leurs statuts autorisent
à défendre les intérêts économiques de leurs membres;
b. les organisations d’im portance nationale ou régi onale qui se consacrent
tatutairement à la protection des consommateurs.
2 Ces associations ont également qualité pour intenter l’action pr évue à l’article 52
lorsqu’elle porte sur une marque de garantie ou une marque collective.
Art. 57 Confiscation en procédure civile
1 Le juge peut ordonner la confiscation des objets sur lesquels une marque ou une
indication de provenance ont été illicitement apposées et qui se trouvent en possession
du défendeur.2 Il décide si la marque ou l’indica tion de provenance doivent être rendues
méconnaissables ou si les obj ets doivent être mis hors d’usage, détruits ou utilisés
d’une façon particulière.
Art. 58 Instance cantonale unique
29
1 et 2 ...30
3 Chaque canton désigne pour l’ensemble de son territoire un tribunal unique chargé
de connaître des actions civiles.
Art. 59 Mesures provisionnelles
1 La personne qui rend vraisemblable qu’elle subit ou risque de subir une violation
de son droit à la marque ou à l’indication de provenance et que cette violation risque
de lui causer un préjudice difficilement répara ble peut requérir des mesures provisionnelles.
28 RS 220
29 Nouvelle teneur selon le ch. 10 de l'annexe à la loi du 24 mars 2000 sur les fors, en
vigueur depuis le 1er janv. 2001 (RS 272).
30 Abrogés par le ch. 10 de l'annexe à la loi du 24 mars 2000 sur les fors (RS 272).IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 15
2 Elle peut notamment exiger du juge qu ’il ordonne les mesures propres à assurer la
conservation des preuves, pour rechercher la provenance des objets portant illicitementla marque ou l’indication de provenance, pour sauvegarder l’état de fait ou
pour assurer à titre provisoire l’exercice de s prétentions en prévention ou en cessation
du trouble.3 ...
31
4 Au demeurant, les articles 28 c à 28f du code civil 32 sont applicables par analogie.
Art. 60 Publication du jugement
Sur requête de la par tie qui obtient gain de cause, le juge peut ordonner la publication
du jugement aux frais de l’autre partie. Il détermine le mode et l’étendue de lapublication.
Chapitre 2: Dispositions pénales
Art. 61 Violation du droit à la marque
1 Sur plainte du lésé, sera puni de l’ emprisonnement pour un an au plus ou de
l’amende jusqu’à 100 000 francs celui qui, in tentionnellement, aura violé le droit à
la marque d’autrui:
a. en usurpant, contrefaisant ou imitant ladite marque;b. en utilisant la marque usurpée, c ontrefaite ou imitée pour offrir ou mettre en
circulation des produits, offrir ou f ournir des services ou faire de la publicité.
2 Sera puni de la même peine, sur plainte du lésé, celui qui aura refusé d’indiquer la
provenance des objets sur lesquels une marque usurpée, contrefaite ou imitéea été apposée et qui se trouvent en sa possession.3 Si l’auteur de l’infraction agit par métier, il sera poursuivi d’office. La peine sera
l’emprisonnement et l’amende jusqu’à 100 000 francs.
Art. 62 Usage frauduleux
1 Sur plainte du lésé, sera puni de l’ emprisonnement ou de l’amende jusqu’à
100 000 francs celui qui:
a. aura désigné illicitement des produits ou des servi ces par la marque d’un
tiers en vue de tromper autrui, fa isant croire ainsi qu’il s’agissait de produits
ou de services originaux;b. aura offert ou mis en circulation comme originaux des produits désignés
illicitement par la marque d’un tiers ou offert ou fourni comme originaux des services désignés par la marque d’un tiers.
2 Si l’auteur de l’infraction agit par métier, il sera poursuivi d’office et la peine sera
l’emprisonnement jusqu’à cinq ans et l’amende jusqu’à 100 000 francs.
3 Celui qui aura importé, exporté ou entre posé des produits dont il savait qu’ils seraient
illicitement offerts ou mis en circulation, dans un but de tromperie, sera, sur
plainte du lésé, puni des arrêts ou de l’amende jusqu’à 20 000 francs.
31 Abrogé par le ch. 10 de l'annexe à la loi du 24 mars 2000 sur les fors (RS 272).
32 RS 210IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 16
Art. 63 Usage d’une marque de garantie ou d’une marque collective contraire
au règlement
1 Sur plainte du lésé, sera puni de l’ emprisonnement pour un an au plus ou de
l’amende jusqu’à 100 000 francs celui qui, in tentionnellement, aura utilisé une marque
de garantie ou une marque collective de manière à contrevenir aux dispositions
du règlement.2 Sera puni de la même peine, sur plainte du lésé, celui qui aura refusé d’indiquer la
provenance des objets sur les quels une marque de garan tie ou une marque collective
est apposée de manière à contrevenir au règl ement et qui se trouvent en sa possession.
3 Lorsqu’il ne s’agit que de dispositions pe u importantes du règlement, le juge peut
renoncer à toute peine.4 Si l’auteur de l’infraction agit par métier, il sera poursuivi d’office. La peine sera
l’emprisonnement et l’amende jusqu’à 100 000 francs.
Art. 64 Usage d’indications de provenance inexactes
1 Sur plainte du lésé, sera puni de l’ emprisonnement pour un an au plus ou de
l’amende jusqu’à 100 000 francs celui qui, intentionnellement:
a. aura utilisé une indication de provenance inexacte;b. aura utilisé une désignation susceptible d’être confondue avec une indication
de provenance inexacte;c. aura créé un risque de tromperie en utilisant un nom, une adresse ou une marque en rapport avec des produits ou des services d’une autre provenance.
2 Si l’auteur de l’infraction agit par métier, il sera poursuivi d’office. La peine sera
l’emprisonnement et l’amende jusqu’à 100 000 francs.
Art. 65 Infractions relatives au signe d’identification du producteur
Sera puni de l’amende jusqu’ à 20 000 francs celui qui, inten tionnellement, aura contrevenu
aux prescriptions relatives au si gne d’identification du producteur.
Art. 66 Suspension de la procédure
1 Le juge peut suspendre la procédur e pénale si le pr évenu invoque la nullité
de l’enregistrement dans une procédure civile.
2 Si le prévenu soulève l’exception de nullité de l’enregistrement dans la procédurepénale, le juge peut lui imp artir un délai convenable pour intenter l’action en nullité.
3 La prescription est suspendue pend ant la suspension de la procédure.
Art. 67 Infractions commises dans la gestion d’une entreprise
Les articles 6 et 7 de la loi fédéra le du 22 mars 1974 sur le droit pénal
administratif
33 s’appliquent aux infractions commises dans la gestion d’une entreprise,
par un subordonné, un mandata ire ou un représentant.
33 RS 313.0
34 RS 311.0IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 17
Art. 68 Confiscation lors de la procédure pénale
L’article 58 du code pénal 34 est applicable; nonobstant le 2e alinéa de cette disposition,
le juge peut ordonner la confiscation de tout l’objet sur lequel une marque ou
une indication de provenanc e a été illicitement apposée.
Art. 69 Compétences des autorités cantonales
La poursuite pénale incombe aux cantons.
Chapitre 3: Intervention de l’Administration des douanes
Art. 70 Dénonciation d’envois suspects
L’Administration des douanes est habilitée à a ttirer, sur certains envois, l’attention
du titulaire d’une marque, de l’ayant droit à une indication de provenance ou d’uneassociation professi onnelle ou économique ayant qualité pour intenter une action en
vertu de l’article 56, lors qu’il y a lieu de soupçonner l’importation ou l’exportation
imminente de produits sur les quels la marque ou l’indica tion de provenance a été
illicitement apposée.
Art. 71 Demande d’intervention
1 Lorsque le titulaire d’une marque, l’ayant droit à une indication de provenance ouune association professionne lle ou économique ayant qualité pour intenter une action
en vertu de l’article 56 a des indices séri eux permettant de s oupçonner l’importation
ou l’exportation imminente de produits sur lesquels la mar que ou l’indication
de provenance a été illicitement apposée, il peut demander par écrit à l’Administration
des douanes de refuser la mainlevée de ces produits.
2 Le requérant fournira à l’Administrati on des douanes toutes les indications dont il
dispose et dont celle-ci a besoin pour stat uer sur sa demande; il lui remettra notamment
une description précise des produits.3 L’administration statue définitivement. Elle peut percevoir un émolument pour
couvrir les frai s administratifs.
Art. 72 Rétention
1 Lorsque, à la suite d’une demande d’interven tion au sens de l’artic le 71, l’Administration
des douanes a des raisons fondées de soupçonner l’importa tion ou l’exportation
de produits sur lesquels une marque ou une indication de provenance a été illicitementapposée, elle en informe le requérant.2 Afin de permettre au requérant d’obtenir des mesures provisionne lles, l’Administration
des douanes retient les pr oduits en cause durant dix jours ouvrables au plus
à compter de la communication selon le 1
er alinéa.35
2bis Si les circonstances le justifient, l’Administration des douanes peut retenir les
produits en cause durant un délai supplém entaire de dix jours ouvrables au plus.36
35 Nouvelle teneur selon le ch. I de la LF du 16 déc. 1994, en vigueur depuis le 1er juillet
1995 (RO 1995 1781 1782; FF 1994 IV 995).
36 Introduit par le ch. I de la LF du 16 déc. 1994, en vigueur depuis le 1er juillet 1995
(RO 1995 1781 1782; FF 1994 IV 995).IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 18
2ter Si la rétention des produits risque d’occasionner un dommage, l’Administration
des douanes peut exiger du requérant qu’il fournisse des sûretés adéquates.37
3 Le requérant est tenu de réparer le préjudi ce causé par la rétention lorsque des mesures
provisionnelles n’ont pas été ordonnées ou qu’ elles se sont révélées infondées.
Titre 4: Dispositions finales
Chapitre premier: ExécutionArt. 73
Le Conseil fédéral édicte les dispositions d’exécution.
Chapitre 2: Abrogation et modi fication de lois fédérales
Art. 74 Abrogation du droit en vigueur
La loi fédérale du 26 septembre 1890
38 concernant la protecti on des marques de fabrique
et de commerce, des indications de prove nance et des mentions de récompenses
industrielles est abrogée. Cependant, l’article 16bis , 2e alinéa, reste applicable
jusqu’à l’entrée en vigueur de l’article 36 de la présente loi.
Art. 75 Modification du droit en vigueur
1. La loi fédérale d’organisati on judiciaire du 16 décembre 1943 39 est modifiée
comme il suit:
Art. 100, phrase introductive et let. w
...
2. La loi fédérale du 20 juin 1933 40 sur le contrôle du comme rce des métaux précieux
et des ouvrages en métaux précieux est modifiée comme il suit:
Titre
...Art. 10...Art. 12, al. 1
bis et 2, première phrase
...Art. 22, 1
er al.
...Art. 22a...Art. 47...
37 Introduit par le ch. I de la LF du 16 déc. 1994, en vigueur depuis le 1er juillet 1995
(RO 1995 1781 1782; FF 1994 IV 995).
38 [RS 2 837; RO 1951 906 art. 1er , 1971 1617, 1988 1776 annexe ch. I let. e].
39 RS 173.110 . Les modifications mentionnées ci-dessous sont insérées dans ladite loi.
40 RS 941.31 . Les modifications mentionnées ci-dessous sont insérées dans ladite loi.IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 19
Art. 44 à 46 et 48 à 50
Tous les montants d’amendes en francs doivent être biffés.
3. Dans tous les actes législatifs, l’expr ession «marque de fabrique et de commerce»
est remplacée par l’expression «marque», à l’ exception des articles 1 et 2 de la loi
fédérale du 5 juin 1931 41 pour la protection des armoir ies publiques et autres signes
publics. Les actes législatifs concernés seront adaptés à la prochaine occasion.
Chapitre 3: Disposit ions transitoires
Art. 76 Marques déposées ou enregistrées
1 Les marques déjà déposées et les marques encore enregistrées au jour de l’entrée
en vigueur de la présente loi sont ré gies dès cette date par le nouveau droit.
2 Les dispositions suivantes dérogent au 1er alinéa:
a. la priorité est régie par l’ancien droit;b. les motifs justifiant le rejet des demandes d’enregistrement, à l’exception des motifs absolus d’exclusion, sont régis par l’ancien droit;c. les oppositions à l’enregistrement de marques déjà déposées lors de l’entrée
en vigueur de la présente loi sont irrecevables;d. la validité de l’enregi strement prend fin à l’éc héance du délai prévu par
l’ancien droit; jusque-là, l’enregistrement peut être prolongé en tout temps;e. la première prolongation de l’enre gistrement d’une marque collective est
soumise quant à la forme aux mêmes prescriptions qu’un dépôt.
Art. 77 Marques exclues de l’enregist rement par l’ancien droit
Si les demandes d’enre gistrement concernant des marq ues exclues de l’enregistrement
par l’ancien droit et non par le nouveau sont pendantes lors de l’entrée en vigueur
de la présente loi, le j our de l’entrée en vigueur de celle-ci est réputé date du
dépôt.
Art. 78 Priorité découlant de l’usage
1 Celui qui, avant l’entrée en vigueur de la présente loi, a le premier utilisé une marquesur des produits ou leur emballage ou pour des services jouit d’un droit qui
prime celui du premier déposant, à condition de déposer la marque dans les deux ans
suivant l’entrée en vigueur de la présente loi et d’indiquer le moment à partir duquel
la marque a été utilisée.2 Les oppositions contre l’enregistrement de marques au sens du premier alinéa sont
irrecevables.
41 RS 232.21IP/N/1/CHE/I/1
Page 20
Chapitre 4: Référendum et entrée en vigueur
Art. 79
1 La présente loi est sujette au référendum facultatif.
2 Le Conseil fédéral fixe la date de l’entrée en vigueur.
Date de l’entrée en vigueur: 1er avril 1993 42
Art. 36: 1er janvier 1994 43
__________
42 ACF du 23 déc. 1992 (RO 1993 294)
43 O du 26 avril 1993 (RS 232.110 )
| 7,289 | 44,290 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_WT_AIR_1438.pdf
|
S_WT_AIR_1438
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/S_G_TBTNOT97_97-250.pdf
|
S_G_TBTNOT97_97-250
|
ORGANIZACI ÓNMUNDIAL G/TBT/Notif.97.250
16dejunio de1997
DEL COMERCIO
(97-2456)
Comité deObstáculos Técnicos alComercio
NOTIFICACI ÓN
Sedatraslado delanotificación siguiente deconformidad conelartículo 10.6.
1. Miembro delAcuerdo quenotifica: ELSALVADOR
Siprocede, nombre delgobierno localdequesetrate(artículos 3.2y7.2):
2. Organismo responsable: Consejo Nacional deCiencia yTecnología, CONACYT
Pueden indicarse elorganismo olaautoridad encargados dedartrámite alas
observaciones sobre lanotificación, sinocoinciden conloindicado supra :
3. Notificación hecha envirtud delartículo 2.9.2 [X],2.10.1 [],5.6.2 [],5.7.1 [],oen
virtud de:
4. Productos abarcados (partida delSAodelaNCCA cuando corresponda; enotrocaso
partida delarancel nacional. Podrá indicarse además, cuando proceda, elnúmero de
partida delaICS): S.A.C. Código: 0406.40.00
5. Título, número depáginas eidioma(s) deldocumento notificado: "Quesos madurados.
Especificaciones" (8páginas)
6. Descripción delcontenido: Reglamento Técnico conteniendo uninforme ylas
disposiciones técnicas relativas alosquesos madurados ysusespecificaciones técnicas
quecomprenden lasnormas paraconsultas, lasdefiniciones, clasificación, lasmaterias
primas ymateriales, sus características generales, sensoriales, químicas y
microbiológicas, losaditivos alimentarios, muestreo, métodos deensayo yanálisis,
envase yetiquetado, embalaje, elalmacenamiento ytransporte, ylacorrespondencia
conotras normas.
7. Objetivo yrazón deser: Este Reglamento Técnico regula cuáles deben serlas
características yespecificaciones técnicas delosquesos madurados, afindequeenla
elaboración deesteproducto seveanreflejadas dichas características yespecificaciones,
paraasegurar suconsumo.
8. Documentos pertinentes: Reglamento Técnico NSO 67.01.03:95
./.G/TBT/Notif.97.250
Página 2
9. Fecha propuesta deadopción ydeentrada envigor: 28defebrero de1997
10. Fecha límite paralapresentación deobservaciones: 13defebrero de1997
11. Textos disponibles en:Servicio nacional deinformación [],odirección ynúmero de
telefax deotrainstitución:
CONACYT
Departamento deNormalización, Metrología yCertificación delaCalidad
Urb.Isidro Menéndez Pje.SanAntonio #51
SanSalvador
Tel.: 2262800
Fax: 2256255
MINISTERIO DEECONOM ÍA
Dirección dePolítica Comercial
Alameda JuanPablo IIyCalle Guadalupe PlanMaestro
SanSalvador
Tel.: 2213578
Fax: 2214771
| 234 | 2,350 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_PANELIST_SUMM_12.pdf
|
R_PANELIST_SUMM_12
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/R_G_TBT_W112R1.pdf
|
R_G_TBT_W112R1
|
RESTRICTEDORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEG/TBT/W/112/Rev. 1
11 juin 1999
(99-2344)
Comité des obstacles techniques au commerce Original: anglais
ÉQUIVALENCE DES RÈGLEMENTS TECHNIQUES ET DES NORMES
Note de la Thaïlande
Révision
I. RÈGLEMENTS TECHNIQUES
1. L'article 2.7 dispose que les Membres envisageront de manière positive d'accepter comme
équivalents les règlements techniques des autres Membres, même si ces règlements diffèrent des
leurs, à condition d'avoir la certitude que ces règlements remplissent de manière adéquate les objectifsde leurs propres règlements.
2. Certes, l'article 2.7 a été mis en œuvre, mais on peut se demander si cette mise en œuvre a été
large et si elle répond aux objectifs fixés dans l'Accord OTC.
3. L'adoption de normes internationales joue un rôle important dans l'établissement de
l'équivalence, mais il faut toutefois noter que l'article 2.4 permet des variations en fonction desbesoins.
4. C'est le milieu des affaires qui est le plus susceptible d'être touché par l'acceptation ou la
non-acceptation de l'équivalence des règlements techniques. Le Comité pourrait demander que les
renseignements à cet égard soient rassemblés pour préparer les actions à prendre afin que l'obligation
au titre de l'Accord soit exécutée.
II. NORMES
5. L'application des normes est du ressort du milieu des affaires. L'adoption de normes
internationales aplanit les difficultés.
6. Lorsqu'il n'existe pas de normes internationales, il est courant d'établir des renvois à des
normes étrangères. Le passage d'une "liste de renvois" à une "liste de normes équivalentes" mériterait
d'être appuyé.
7. S'agissant de la proposition de la Nouvelle-Zél ande (G/TBT/W/88) visant à inclure le principe
de l'équivalence des normes dans le Code de pratique, les Membres pourront souhaiter en discuter les
mérites dans leur administration nationale et en tirer des conclusions.
__________
| 279 | 1,902 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_WT_AIR_1173.pdf
|
R_WT_AIR_1173
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/R_PANELIST_ARCHIVE_SUMM_25.pdf
|
R_PANELIST_ARCHIVE_SUMM_25
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_DS_248R-03.pdf
|
Q_WT_DS_248R-03
|
WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 165
Production processes
7.394 The European Communities and China point out that the USITC's decisive argument for
aggregating the five different products into one single category was the vertical integration of the
industry and the common production processes.1112 The USITC, in this safeguard determination, was,
again, required by its own stated methodology to use as criterion for determining a like product "its
manufacturing process (i.e., where and how it is made)".1113 The USITC paid "particular attention" to
the "sharing of productive processes and facilities" which "is a fundamental concern in defining the
scope of the domestic industry under Section 201".1114 Moreover, the USITC considered itself
required "to define like or directly competitive in a manner that reflects the realities of the market andat the same time accomplishes the fundamental purpose of Section 201, protection of the productive
resources of domestic producers".
1115 Thus, the USITC's general methodology calls for the artificial
aggregation of downstream products by directing the USITC to "pay particular attention" to a
common integrated production base.1116
7.395 According to the European Communities, Japan, China, and Brazil, this criterion, however,
has already been found to be at odds with the Agreement on Safeguards in US – Lamb well before the
USITC started the steel safeguard investigation. Japan and Brazil also argue that the USITC found
the "vast majority" of CCFRS to be produced by "fir ms that are involved in a number of the stages of
processing".1117 Consequently, these complainants contend that the USITC's like product analysis of
CCFRS products is no more consistent with the Agreement on Safeguards than its faulty analysis in
US – Lamb . As the Appellate Body held in that dispute: "[i]f an input product and an end product are
not 'like or directly competitive', then it is irrelevant, under the Agreement on Safeguards, that there is
a continuous line of production between an input product and an end-product … or that there is a
substantial coincidence of economic interests between the producers of these products".1118 Rather,
the focus must be on "the identification of the products, and their 'like or directly competitive'relationship, and not on the processes by which those products are produced".
1119 The cascading
nature of the production processes for various CCFRS products is irrelevant to the question of "like"
products under the Agreement, as interpreted by the Appellate Body. The complainants argue that the
nature of the factors to be considered in determining the scope of the "like" products – i.e ., physical
properties, end-use, consumer tastes and habits, and customs treatment – also indicate that the overlap
in the production, the element that drove the USITC analysis1120, is irrelevant. What matters is the
competitive relationship between the products, which helps to discern whether the products are "like"one another and whether, in turn, it makes sense to collapse them together.
1121 Japan considers that
1112 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 30, 31, 37.
1113 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 30.
1114 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 30 and 151.
1115 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 31.
1116 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 249-251; China's first written submission,
paras. 201-203.
1117 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 37-39.
1118 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb, para. 90. See also para. 94.
1119 Ibid. at paras. 92-93.
1120 USITC Report, Vol. I , pp. 36-45 (Exhibit CC-6). These complainants argue that this is apparent
from the USITC's reliance on the statement that the like product determination should be driven by the"fundamental purpose of Section 201, protection of the productive resources of domestic producers." USITCReport, Vol. I, p. 31 (Exhibit CC-6) (citing to Carbon and Certain Alloy Steel Products , Inv. No. TA-201-51,
USITC Publication 1553, Washington, D.C. (July 1984), pp. 12-13).
1121 European Communities' first written submission, para. 252; Japan's first written submission, paras.
121-122; China's first written submission, para. 204; Brazil's first written submission, paras. 100, 102, 105, 109,111.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 166
the USITC finding that a large percentage of domestic CCFRS producers are vertically integrated,
producing four of the five flat-rolled steel products, is akin to its earlier finding of a "continuous lineof production" from live lambs to lamb meat.
1122
7.396 Japan and Brazil also insist that the products undergo different production processes. The
USITC found, for example, that the production processes for hot-rolled steel and cold-rolled steel
differ in that cold-rolled steel is further reduced by 25% to 90%, and is often annealed and temper
rolled. Coated steel differs from cold-rolled steel in that it has been processed on an electro-
galvanizing or hot-dip galvanizing line.1123
7.397 Japan submits that even the USITC admits that the processes that make the various CCFRS
products are distinct and that distinct products come out of them.1124 A slab caster is a process unto
itself, entirely separate from the hot rolling and St eckel plate mills. These mills are in turn separate
from cold rolling mills, as are the co ating lines that make corrosion resistant steel. Each process, in
turn, makes a product that can either be used as feedstock for the next stage, or be sold as finished
products for end-use purposes (except for slab, which is only used to make finished flat-rolled steel).The processes which make these products may be located on the same general premises and be owned
by the same company, but this doesn't make the processes' output "like" one another. The separate
facilities in which slab is made as compared with hot-rolled, cold rolled and corrosion resistant create
separate products used for distinctly different purposes.
1125
7.398 The European Communities and China finally argu e that in essence, the USITC defined "like
product" by reference to the "domestic industry". This turns on its head the requirement of
Articles 2.1 and 4.1(c) of the Agreement on Safeguards which mandates the "domestic industry" to be
defined by reference to producers of the "like product": the "identification of the products which are
"like or directly competitive with the imported product" is the first step required by US – Lamb in
defining the domestic industry, not the other way round. This is not a product-focused approach asrequired by the Appellate Body. Rather, it is an approach driven by the aim to give the widest
possible blanket of protection to the domestic industry. The United States cannot arbitrarily replace
the criteria upheld by the Appellate Body. The United States had to apply such criteria so as to ensure
that prejudice caused by one imported product is not unjustifiably attributed to another imported
product.
1126
7.399 The United States insists that CCFRS includes steel at any of the following five stages of
processing: slab, hot-rolled steel (sheet/strip/plate in coils), cut-to-length ("CTL") plate, cold-rolled
steel, and coated steel.1127 An important factor in the USITC's analysis, which the complainants'
arguments ignore, was the fact that CCFRS at one stage of processing generally is feedstock for the
next stage of processing. For example, slab is fe edstock for hot-rolled steel (sheet, strip, and plate);
hot-rolled steel is feedstock for cold-rolled steel and cut-to-length plate; and cold-rolled steel is
feedstock for coated steel. The USITC acknowledged that the interrelationship between the productsis most prominent at the earlier stages.
1128 Since earlier processed CCFRS is the feedstock for further
1122 Japan's second written submission, para. 40.
1123 Japan's first written submission, para. 117, footnote 183; Brazil's first written submission,
para. 106.
1124 USITC Report, pp. 40-41.
1125 Japan's second written submission, para. 41.
1126 European Communities' first written submission, para. 253; China's first written submission,
para. 205.
1127 USITC Report, p. 38.
1128 For example, slab is dedicated for use in produ cing the next stage steel, hot-rolled steel, whether
produced as sheet, strip, or plate. The majority of hot-ro lled steel is further processed into cold-rolled steel. TheWT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 167
processed steel, such steel is produced using essentially the same production processes at least at the
initial stages, with downstream steel merely employing later stages of processing. The USITC'sanalysis provided a detailed discussion of the fi ve stages of processing CCFRS. The manufacturing
processes for carbon steel involve three distinct stages that include: (1) melting or refining raw steel;
(2) casting molten steel into semifinished form, su ch as slab; and (3) performing various stages of
finishing operations, including hot-rolling, cold-rolling, and/or coating.
1129 All CCFRS is produced
from slab, with the majority of such steel further processed into hot-rolled steel on hot strip or Steckel
mills.1130 Substantial quantities of earlier processed steel are internally transferred for production of
further processed steel.1131 This tends to blur product distinctions until the processing reaches its final
stages since earlier stages simply are feedstock for the next stage. As part of its consideration of the
manufacturing process ( i.e., where and how it is made), the USITC also recognized that there is
commonality of facilities and substantial vertical integration in the industry.1132
7.400 The United States notes that the complainants challenge the USITC's consideration of
production processes in determining the "like produc t" on the basis that "the Appellate Body in US –
Lamb had ruled out this criterion for the like product determination".1133 However, the United States
maintains that contrary to the complainants' contentions, the Appellate Body in US – Lamb
recognized that when confronted with the question of whether two articles are separate products, "it
may be relevant to inquire into the production processes for those products".1134
7.401 The European Communities contends that the United States acknowledged the limited
similarity and interchangeability and tried to defend it on the basis of a the "important factor"
"feedstock" relationship, stating that a lack of similarity "would be expected for feedstock
products".1135 However, this only admits the commonsensical reason why the Appellate Body clearly
remaining hot-rolled steel is about equally divided between being further processed into CTL plate or pipe and
tube, and used in the manufacture of structural parts of automobiles and appliances. The majority of cold-rolled
steel also is used as the feedstock for further processing into coated steel, with smaller amounts furtherprocessed into tin mill products or GOES.
1129 USITC Report, p. OVERVIEW-7.
1130 Moreover, the evidence shows that advances in technology have blurred the former differences in
hot-rolled production processes for sheet/strip and plate. The Steckel mills permit rolling to thinner gauges than
a traditional reversing mill thus permitting a producer to switch production between sheet and plate. Steckel
mills also allow steelmakers to coil the finished plate, as on a hot-strip mill. Moreover, the addition of tempermills to CTL lines has made heavy gauge hot-rolled interchangeable with discretely produced plate. Withoutthe temper mill process, coils cut into lengths tend to retain memory and "snap back" or bend after the initialflattening. While plate in coils can only be produced in thicknesses up to 3/4 inch and thus can only be
substituted for CTL plate up to 3/4 inch thick, this portion of the CTL plate market is large. There is evidence
that some mills can produce plate in coils in gauges up to one inch. Thus, the share of the CTL plate marketwhich can be, and is being, supplied with plates cut from coil is substantial. USITC Report, p. 40-41.
1131 Virtually all US-produced slab is internally co nsumed by the domestic slab producers in their
production of hot-rolled steel (sheet, strip, or plate), w ith large shares of hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel also
internally transferred. During the year 2000, 99.4% of the quantity of domestic producers' total US shipments of
slab were internally transferred, as were 66% of the quantity of domestic producers' total US shipments of hot-
rolled steel, and 58.7% of the quantity of total US shipments of domestically-produced cold-rolled steel. USITCReport, pp. FLAT-1 and 3, nn. 4 and 5.
1132 United States' first written submission, paras. 121-122.
1133 European Communities' first written submission, para 233; see also Korea's first written
submission, paras. 32 and 35; Japan's first written submission, para. 103; China's first written submission,
para. 141; Brazil's first written submission, para. 96; Switzerland's first written submission, para. 179; Norway's
first written submission, para. 197.
1134 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb , para. 94, footnote 55.
1135 United States' first written submission, paras. 136 and 140.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 168
ruled out a feedstock relationship between products as criterion for establishing likeness, if the
products are not otherwise found to be like. Had the USITC looked at the production process, i.e.,
how a product is made, as opposed to an irrelevant feedstock relationship, this would have only
confirmed the finding that all five products are different. The European Communities alleges that the
United States itself described the production processes of all these four products and thereby admits
that they are different.1136 As is readily apparent, the production processes differ considerably and
accordingly, the texture and thickness of hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel is not similar. Similarly, the
specific characteristics of coated sheet are due to the specific production processes of hot-dip
galvanising or otherwise coating the cold-rolled shee ts to make it corrosion resistant or give it other
specific qualities.1137
7.402 The United States stresses that cont rary to the complainants' allegations1138, the USITC's
definition of CCFRS as a single like product was not based solely on the vertical integration of the
domestic CCFRS producers. It is clear from the USIT C's determination, that it considered the factors
it has traditionally used to evaluate like products in safeguard cases, and based its decision on all ofthe evidence before it. The complainants fail to acknowledge, although they do not dispute, the fact
that CCFRS at one stage of processing generally is feedstock for the next stage of processing, which
tends to blur product distinctions until the processing reaches its final stages since steel at the earlier
stages simply are feedstock for the next stage. This interrelationship between types of CCFRS at
different stages of processing clearly was an importa nt factor in the USITC's analysis and finding, and
is "product-oriented". The fact that the USITC recognized that substantial quantities of earlier
processed steel are internally transferred for their production of further processed steel and that these
substantial internal transfers of feedstock underscore the fact that domestic producers are highly
integrated does not negate the USITC's entire like product analysis.
1139 These are facts about the
interrelationship of CCFRS and its manufacturing proc ess. Contrary to the complainants' statements,
the USITC appropriately considered relevant other factors1140 including the vertical integration of the
domestic producers of CCFRS in its analysis.1141 1142
1136 United States' first written submission, para. 121.
1137 European Communities' second written submission, paras. 277-279.
1138 Japan's first written submission, paras. 121-122; Brazil's first written submission, paras. 103-105;
Korea's first written submission, paras. 45-47 and 60; European Communities' first writtensubmission,paras. 249-254; New Zealand's first written submission, paras. 4.54-4.55; China's first written submission,paras. 201-206; Brazil's first written submission, paras. 103-105 and 109.
1139 The evidence shows that domestic producers of hot-rolled steel shipped 94.7% of US shipments of
cold-rolled steel and 84.8% of coated steel in 2000. INV-Y-207 at Table X-1 (US-27). Conversely, domestic
producers of cold-rolled/coated steel shipped 89.1% of US shipments of hot-rolled steel in 2000. INV-Y-207 atTable X-2 (US-27).
1140 Appellate Body Report, Japan – Alcoholic Beverages II , p. 20 ("In applying the criteria cited in
Border Tax Adjustments to the facts of any particular case, and in considering other criteria that may also be
relevant in certain cases, panels can only apply their best judgement in determining whether in fact products are
"like".).
1141 As discussed above, contrary to complainants' misstatements, US – Lamb does not prohibit
consideration of production processes and vertical inte gration as part of the like product analysis. The
complainants ignore the Appellate Body's explicit rec ognition that consideration of production processes may be
a relevant factor in defining like products. Specifically, the Appellate Body in US – Lamb added the following
statement in a footnote:
We can, however, envisage that in certain cases a question may arise as to whether two articles are
separate products . In that event, it may be relevant to inquire into the production processes for those products.
Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb , para. 94, footnote 55; Panel Report, Japan – Alcoholic
Beverages I , para. 5.7 (Panel thought it was important to assess "likeness", as much as possible, on the basis ofWT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 169
7.403 The European Communities notes that even if the USITC had consistently drawn the dividing
lines between products on the basis of a feedstock relationship, such approach would be inconsistentwith Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards , as clarified by the Appellate Body in US – Lamb .
The European Communities submits that a mistake is not healed by repeating it.
1143
Marketing channels
7.404 Brazil argues that the USITC found that there was overlap among the products in terms of
channels of distribution in that the products were generally internally consumed or sold to end-users,
although neither plate nor corrosion resistant steel is internally consumed in most cases.1144 1145
7.405 The United States agrees that the USITC also considered the marketing channels and uses for
CCFRS. The majority of CCFRS overall, and specifically for feedstocks products – slab, hot-rolled,
and cold-rolled – is internally transferred. Thus, when CCFRS enters the commercial market, the
primary marketing channel generally is directly to end-users.1146
7.406 China considers that marketing channels are not relevant criteria.1147
Competition
7.407 According to Japan, the USITC completely ignored the most basic principle that competition
needs to exist between products found to be like. The choice of an overly broad CCFRS category – in
respect of both imports and the domestic industry – made the USITC's analysis meaningless because
it masked the true competitive dynamics in the mark et. Assume, for instance, that imports of semi-
finished slab sharply increase, and sales of domestically produced corrosion-resistant steelsimultaneously decline. This import increase cannot "cause … injury to domestic producers … of"
corrosion-resistant steel because there would be no competitive relationship between these products in
light of their wide differences in product properties and end-uses.
1148
7.408 Similarly, Korea argues that Articles 2.1 and 4.1(c) of the Agreement on Safeguards, read as a
whole, support the conclusion that an essential elem ent of the like product analysis should relate to
whether the products compete in the marketplace because this will determine the essential nature of
the impact of imports on the domestic industry and whether they are causing serious injury. This
essential element of "competitive effect" should have guided the USITC's analysis of like product.
After all, the more attenuated the competitive effect, the less likely a causal relationship exists
between increased imports of that product and serious injury. In this case, imports of hot-rolled coil
do not have a comparable competitive effect on cold-rolled production and profitability, etc., as do
imports of cold-rolled. This is because the two products have different physical characteristics anddifferent end-uses and thus do not compete against each other in end-use market. The effect is even
objective criteria, including, in particular, compositio n and manufacturing processes of the product, in addition
to consumption habits.).
1142 United States' first written submission, paras. 138, 140.
1143 European Communities' written reply to Panel question No. 11 at the second substantive meeting,
quoting the Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb, para. 90.
1144 USITC Report, p. 44.
1145 Brazil's first written submission, para. 102.
1146 In 2000, the marketing channels for certain carbon flat-rolled steel, except for CTL plate, ranged
from 60% to 99.6% to end-users. USITC Report, Tables FLAT 12-15 and FLAT-17. The marketing channels
for CTL plate were more evenly split with 45.2% to end-users and 54.8% to distributors. Ibid., Table FLAT-13.
1147 China's second written submission, para. 78.
1148 Japan's first written submission, para. 80.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 170
more attenuated between slab imports and galvanized products – i.e., one cannot make a car or any
other finished product using slabs. Indeed, the actual competitive overlap of CCFRS products ismarginal.
1149 New Zealand points out that the USITC acknowledged that slab "is dedicated for use in
producing the next stage steel, hot-rolled steel".1150 Slab may not, therefore, be applied to any of
the uses for which other steel products may be used – it is exclusively an input good.1151 The USITC
analysis thus falls well short of establishing th e "highest degree of competition" threshold for
"likeness" that was spoken of in US – Cotton Yarn .1152
7.409 The United States responded that substitutability is not one of the traditional factors
considered by the USITC in conducting its analysis of whether there are clear dividing lines betweendomestic products in order to define like product(s). The United States further added that there
clearly is a competitive relationship between the imported and domestic products. The complainants
have not disputed, and neither did the parties in the underlying investigation, that the imported and
domestic products generally consist of the same types of steel, are interchangeable, and thus compete
with each other. Moreover, within any defined like product and the corresponding specific importedproduct there exists a range or continuum of goods of different sizes, grades, or stages of processing.
While goods along the continuum share identical or similar factors, individual items at the extremes
of the continuum may not be as similar or substitutable. For example, a size 36 skirt is like a size 44
skirt, but are they substitutable? Or is size number 3 rebar substitutable for size number 18 rebar? Or
are calves substitutable cattle at other stages of development (i.e., yearling or stocker cattle, feedercattle, or fed cattle ready for slaughter)?
1153
(iii) Relevance of other like product definitions in this case
7.410 Brazil argues that every one of the criteria used by the USITC to distinguish billets from
downstream long products can also be used to distinguish slab from downstream flat products.1154
The sole distinction put forward by the USITC was that each of the long products (i.e. hot-rolled bar,
rebar and heavy structural shapes) produced from billets is made at one stage removed from the billet
(i.e. there is a single rolling stage for each of the products) while for slab there are multiple additional
stages of production (i.e. hot rolling, cold rollin g, galvanizing) with each subsequent product also
being an input into a downstream product until galvan izing. Thus, according to the United States,
while hot-rolled flat products (plate and sheet) result from a single rolling stage with slab as an input,
hot-rolled flat products are like slab because some hot-rolled products may also be an input into a
subsequent rolling stage, cold rolling. However, again according to the United States, hot-rolled bar
which, like hot-rolled flat products, results from a single rolling stage with billet as an input is not like
billets because hot-rolled bar is not an input into a s ubsequent rolling stage. This logically leads to the
anomalous result that CCFRS products one, two a nd three stages of processing removed from the
semifinished product are determined to be "like" the semifinished product whereas long products only
one stage removed from the semifinished product are not "like" the semifinished product. It alsoleaves unexplained why hot rolling of a billet creates a different like product when hot rolling of a
slab does not. One might also ask why billets are not part of a like product category which includes
wire rod (resulting from hot rolling of the billet), wire (which results from cold drawing of the wire
rod) and galvanized wire (which involves application of a metallic coating to prevent corrosion). The
1149 USITC Report, Vol. II , p. FLAT-53 (Exhibit CC-6); Respondents' Joint Framework Brief ,
pp. 22-24 (Exhibit CC-50).
1150 USITC Report, Vol. I, p 38.
1151 New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.62.
1152 New Zealand's second written submission, para. 3.47.
1153 United States' second written submission, paras. 71-72.
1154 Brazil's second written submission, paras. 15-20.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 171
relationships here are virtually identical in terms of one product being the feedstock for the next and
the similarity of the subsequent processing as the relationships among CCFRS products. In the end,the only distinction that the United States can find to justify different treatment of CCFRS and carbon
long products is the only distinction which the Appell ate Body has specifically stated is irrelevant to
the determination of whether products are like each other, namely whether each product is made as
part of a continuous line of production. Furthermore, even if this approach were acceptable, it does
not justify any distinction between the treatment of CCFRS and stainless flat-rolled steel products,
where the input/output relationship between the dow nstream products is identical. Finally, this
approach is also of limited validity in distinguishing billets from finished long products in that it isinapplicable to the billets-wire rod-wire-galvani zed wire grouping of products which have the same
input to end product relationship from billets through galvanized wire as does CCFRS from slab
through galvanized sheet.
1155
7.411 Brazil further notes that the level of integration in both the production of stainless steel flat
products (slab, plate, hot and cold rolled) and carbon long products (billets, hot-rolled bar, rebar,heavy structurals, and wire rod) is comparable to the level of integration in the production of CCFRS.
The only difference is that virtually all stainless and the overwhelming majority of carbon long
products are produced from steel made in electric furnaces, while a majority of CCFRS products are
made from steel produced in blast furnaces and basic oxygen furnaces. This distinction on how the
raw steel is made is not, however, relevant to the degree of vertical integration. Most producers ofboth stainless flat products and carbon long products, like most producers of CCFRS, are vertically
integrated from the production of raw steel to the rolling of finished product.
1156 The CCFRS industry
as a whole is less vertically integrated than either the stainless or long products industries. At least
two producers of a full range of CCFRS finished products do not produce any slab, but purchase all of
their slab requirements, almost exclusively from foreign sources.1157 Brazil is not aware of any
producers of stainless plate and sheet or of hot-rolle d bars, rebars or heavy structurals that do not also
produce the semifinished input product. Furthermore, with imports of carbon slab ranging as high as
7.4 million tons during the period investigated (compared to small quantities relative to domestic
production of imported billets and stainless slab)1158, it is evident that there is a substantial portion of
total CCFRS production which is not vertically integrated. Nevertheless, there is no meaningful
distinction between the level of vertical integration of the producers of CCFRS, billets and finished
carbon long products, and stainless flat products, including stainless slab.1159
7.412 The United States insists that the definitions are based on the application of the like product
criteria to the particular facts involved. Where the facts differ the definitions will differ. Thus, what
Brazil contends are inconsistencies in where dividing lines were drawn, are differences in the
underlying facts.1160 There is a key difference between the relationship of carbon slabs with CCFRS
and the relationship of carbon billets with carbon long products. CCFRS at different stages of
processing has a sequential, or feedstock, relationship rather than the horizontal relationship between
carbon long products. For example, 100% of carbon slab is further processed into either plate or hot-
rolled steel. The sequential relationship continues with other types of CCFRS; the majority of hot-
1155 Brazil's written reply to Panel question No. 11 at the second substantive meeting.
1156 Brazil notes that in making like product distinctions between wire and various wire products
(rope/cable/cordage and nails/staples/cloth categories), the USITC did note the limited degree of verticalintegration between the producers of the upstream (wire) and downstream (various wire products) products.Views of the Commission – USITC Report, Vol.I, at 86-87.
1157 Common Exhibit CC-52 from Brazil's first written submission, pp. 61-62.
1158 Common Annex A and B from Brazil's first written submission.
1159 Brazil's written reply to Panel question No. 12 at the second substantive meeting.
1160 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 11 at the second substantive meeting.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 172
rolled steel is further processed into cold-rolled st eel and the majority of cold-rolled steel is further
processed into coated steel. Thus, carbon slab is dedicated for processing into hot-rolled steelwhereas carbon billets are not dedicated for use into a single type of long product. Instead, carbon
billets are used to produce five very different products – hot-rolled bar, rebar, heavy structural shapes,
rails, and wire rod. Moreover, none of these five carbon long products produced from carbon billets
is further processed into one of the other five carbon long products.
1161 Therefore, carbon billets are
not dedicated for use for a single type of carbon long product as occurs for carbon slab; the horizontal
relationship also continues between the very different long products. There are other distinctions as
well in physical characteristics and manufacturing processes. For example, carbon slabs are typicallymade from pig iron and not scrap metal whereas almost 100% of carbon billets are made from scrap
and scrap substitutes. Thus, there is less variance in purity between slabs with greater variance
between billets. All carbon slabs are refined and subject to extensive metallurgical testing. Carbon
billets, on the other hand, have a wide degree of variation in quality/purity depending on the type of
carbon long product that they will be used to produce. Carbon billets have less sophisticatedrefinement generally, but may have more extensive testing for certain end-uses. For instance, billet
used for rebar has limited metallurgical testing, whereas billet used for certain kinds of specialty bar
may have extensive metallurgical testing. This re sults in differences in the sophistication necessary
for the manufacturing processes. Many United States producers of carbon billets produce other
carbon long products. However, because of the ho rizontal relationship between carbon long products,
billets may be used to make hot-rolled bar, rebar, heavy structural shapes, rails, and wire rod, but none
of these five products is used to make one of the other five. Thus, the integration of the production
process is not in the same fashion as the production of CCFRS.
1162
(iv) Like product definitions used in the anti-dumping and countervailing duty contexts
7.413 Korea recalls that the USITC has never determ ined that two or more CCFRS products should
be treated as a single like product in an anti-dumpi ng or countervailing duty investigation, nor has the
USITC found that different CCFRS products are commercially interchangeable with other CCFRS.
The USITC, at least, should have explained why the extensive analyses which justified its like product
determinations of flat products in past trade remedy cases did not apply to the instant case.1163 It is
instructive that the USITC came to the opposite conclusion regarding the like product in the 1992
CCFRS Products anti-dumping/countervailing duty case1164 based specifically on the fact that they
(hot-rolled, cold-rolled, corrosion-resistant, and plat e) "differ in physical characteristics and uses" and
"the different physical properties of each like product dictate particular end-uses".1165 1166
7.414 New Zealand and Brazil also argue that the aggregation of slab, plate, hot-rolled steel, cold-
rolled steel and coated steel into one "like product" group also represents a departure from the
USITC's own treatment of these products for the purposes of anti-dumping and countervailing duty
investigations. In a number of instances since 1992, the USITC consistently dealt with the discretesteel products comprising the CCFRS category as separate like products. Japan concurs in this
argument. In each case the USITC has acknowledged fundamental differences amongst the products
1161 Hot-rolled bar may be further processed into cold-finished bar, and wire rod may be further
processed into wire and nails. However, these downstream products are distinct from each other and from theother products produced from billets (i.e., rebar is not used in the production of hot-rolled bar).
1162 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 12 at the second substantive meeting.
1163 Korea's first written submission, paras. 38-40.
1164 1992 Certain Flat-Rolled Products , USITC Publication 2549, pp. 9-17 (Exhibit CC-32). (The
USITC established four categories of flat-rolled products for its purposes and included investigation numbers
573-579, 581-592, 594-597, 599-609, 612-619. See id. , p. 3.)
1165 1992 Certain Flat-Rolled Products , USITC Publication 2549, pp. 12-15 (Exhibit CC-32).
1166 Korea's first written submission, para. 50.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 173
in terms of physical properties, uses and interchangeability. In the present case the USITC seems to
aggregate or disaggregate products at will. For example, while the USITC considered both semi-finished carbon steel (slab) and finished flat carbon steel products together in the same like product
category, it decided to treat semi-finished long products (billets) and semi-finished stainless products
as separate from finished products.
1167
7.415 According to the United States, the complain ants' arguments that the USITC should have
defined the like product the same as it has in certain prior anti-dumping and countervailing duty
investigations fails to recognize that the definiti ons arrived at in those cases, as in safeguard
investigations, are dependent on the imports subject to the particular investigation; thus the definitionshave varied.
1168 The starting point for the USITC's like product analysis is the subject imports
identified as within the investigation. In the pr esent case, the USITC began with the subject imports
which included a range of certain carbon and alloy flat steel and looked for clear dividing lines
between the domestic steel that corresponded to these subject imports using well-established factors.
Moreover, contrary to the complainants' allegations, the USITC was not required to begin with likeproduct definitions found by the USITC in prior anti-dumping or countervailing duty cases, that may
have been appropriate definitions in different contexts based on particular statutes and record, and
make an array of comparisons. The anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations generally
begin with a more narrow starting point for the scope of subject imports so the analysis frequently
involves whether the domestic like product should be defined more broadly than the subject imports,i.e., it starts small and looks at whether to broaden rather than starts large and looks where to divide.
The complainants also fail to acknowledge that the anti-dumping and countervailing duty
investigations have a purpose that is different from that in a safeguards investigation.
1169
7.416 Japan responds that one might argue that safeguards investigations permit a broader definition
of the industry than anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations, given that the Agreement onSafeguards contains both "like" and "directly competitive" whereas the Anti-Dumping and Subsidies
Agreements contain only the word "like". However, in this case, the USITC relied only on "like" and
the concept of "like" is understood to be even more narrowly construed when it is juxtaposed against
directly competitive. If anything, the USITC's d ecision should have been narrower. Furthermore,
given the discussion above demonstrating that safeguards may be applied in only the most
extraordinary of circumstances, Japan takes issue with the notion that the definition of like product
may be broader in the safeguards context than in the anti-dumping and countervailing duty context.
1170
7.417 According to Korea, the stated premise of th e USITC's discussion of the legal relevance of
anti-dumping and countervailing duty like product de terminations is that the fundamental purpose of
Section 201 is to protect domestic industries. Therefore, according to the USITC, it has more
discretion in defining the like product more broadly than under countervailing and anti-dumping duty
provisions. The USITC's statement of the object a nd purpose of Section 201 is not consistent with the
object and purpose of the Agreement on Safeguards. The purpose of the Agreement on Safeguards,
which is to be contrasted to the purpose of a corresponding domestic law (Section 201 in this case), is
not to protect the domestic industry, but to provide a framework within which a safeguard measure
1167 New Zealand's first written submission, paras. 4.68-4.70; Brazil's second written submission,
para. 12; Japan's first written submission, paras. 131-136.
1168 United States' first written submission, para. 128, citing Japan's first written submission, para. 125-
148; Korea's first written submission, paras. 34-44.
1169 United States' first written submission, paras. 128-130.
1170 Japan's second written submission, para. 38.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 174
may be applied. Hence, the USITC's like product decisions are seriously compromised.1171 1172 Korea
also argues that the USITC actually relied extensively and explicitly on its factual findings in prioranti-dumping and countervailing duty decisions re garding the products and production processes but
the USITC came to directly contrary conclusions based on the same factual findings.
1173 The method
of the like product analysis is actually substantially similar as well. In both cases the USITC is
seeking "clear dividing lines among possible like products" and applying similar factors to the facts of
each case. However, the result of like product determinations for the current Section 201 steel
investigation was obviously different from those in other investigations: in the anti-dumping cases
beginning in 1992 and continuing through determinations made as recently as 2002 in the case ofcold-rolled steel from Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Korea, the Netherlands,
New Zealand, Russia, South Africa, Sp ain, Taiwan, Turkey, and Venezuela
1174, the USITC has always
determined that the "clear dividing lines" existe d between hot-rolled, cold-rolled, corrosion-resistant,
and plate.1175 Korea concludes that the complainants have established that there are significant
inconsistencies between the United States' approach in the anti-dumping and countervailing dutycontext and this safeguards discussion. In fact, the ten years of consistent precedent was brought
specifically to the attention of the USITC. The USITC dismissed their relevance on grounds that are
not consistent with the Agreement on Safeguards. The United States also failed to offer the Panel a
legal basis to exclude the relevance of those findings.
1176 Therefore, those determinations provide
significant evidence of the proper like product in this case.1177
(v) Relevance of like product definitions in previous safeguards investigations
7.418 The United States argues that, while the complainants rely on like product definitions in
certain anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations, they ignore the similar 1984 Steel
safeguards case, which involved carbon flat steel at various stages of processing similar to those in
this investigation.1178 The USITC defined like products in a manner similar in many respects to the
present safeguards case and different from contemporaneous anti-dumping and countervailing duty
decisions. Specifically, in 1984 Steel , the USITC defined nine like products, each as discrete
categories of closely-related products, that were like or directly competitive with the imported articles.
Three of these categories involved carbon flat products: semi-finished, which included slabs as well
as ingots, blooms, billets, and sheet bars; plate; and sheet and strip, which included hot-rolled, cold-
1171 USITC Report, Vol. I, footnotes 69, 73-76, 80-82, 84-85, 95-102, 104, 109-117, 125, 127, 129-131,
947, 949-952 (Exhibit CC-6).
1172 Korea's second written submission, paras. 51-52.
1173 See e.g. , USITC Report , footnotes 69, 73-76, 80-82, 84-85, 95-102, 104, 109-117, 125, 127, 129-
131, 947, 949-952 (Exhibit CC-6).
1174 Certain Cold-Rolled Steel Products from Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, China, France, Germany,
Korea, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Russia, South Africa, Spain, Taiwan, Turkey, and Venezuela , Invs. Nos.
701-TA-423-425 (Final) and 731-TA-964, 966-970, 973-978, 980, and 982-983 (Final), USITC Publication
3551 (November 2002).
1175 Korea's second written submission, paras. 54-57.
1176 United States' first written submission, paras. 85-90. The distinction made between safeguards and
anti-dumping is simply the US argument that the purposes of the Agreements are different, so "like product"must be interpreted differently. See United States' first written submission, para. 108; USITC Report, Vol. I,
pp. 30-31 (Exhibit CC-6).
1177 Korea's second written submission, para. 60.
1178 The 1984 Steel investigation included such carbon fl at products as slab, hot-rolled, plate, as well as
billets/blooms, wire rod, wire, railway-type products, bars, structural shapes, and pipes and tubes. USITC
Publication 1553 at 10 (US-24).WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 175
rolled and coated steel (each of which had been defined as separate domestic like products in anti-
dumping and countervailing duty investigations).1179
7.419 The USITC recognized in the present case that there had been a number of technological
changes in the steel industry since the 1984 Steel case. The advent of the continuous casting process
for the production of slab rather than the ingot te eming process had resulted in less similarity among
the semifinished products (slabs, ingots, blooms, and billets) and processes and more continuity in the
production processes between slab and hot-rolled products.1180 Moreover, the evidence demonstrated
that the distinction between the production of a semifinished and hot-rolled product had been further
blurred due to the increased use of electric arc furnaces that produce "thin slabs" that continueimmediately into hot-rolled production. The USITC also recognized in this investigation that in
defining separate like products for plate and sheet/strip, the USITC in 1984 Steel focused in part on
differences in production. However, the evidence in this investigation shows that the production of
plate, similar to the production of sheet/strip, has become more continuous, as the same or similar hot-
strip or Steckel mills are often used to make both. Thus, the USITC found that the productionprocesses and equipment for plate and sheet/strip products have become similar and slab production is
less distinct with more continuity in the processing to the next hot-rolling stage than at the time of the
1984 Steel safeguards case. Contrary to the complainants' proposals that the USITC should have
applied certain like product definitions from anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations, it is
clear that if any other definitions should have been taken into account it would be those made for asafeguards case under the same provisions that also had a similar diversity of products within the
investigation.
1181
7.420 Korea responds that the United States' reasoning is circular. As the United States admits, the
definition of like product utilized by the USITC in Section 201 is guided by the purpose of
Section 201 – which is, according to the USITC, to protect domestic productive resources.1182 Since
this "purpose" is found in the Trade Act of 1974, any "guidance" to be gained from the USITC's 1984
safeguards decision as to "clear dividing lines" would be circular. The object and purpose of the
Agreement on Safeguards, as opposed to the Trade Act of 1974, provides no basis to "move" the clear
dividing line between like products that has b een established in ten years of anti-dumping and
countervailing duty cases defining "like" product.1183
(vi) Separate remedy for slab
7.421 New Zealand argues that although both the USITC and the President grouped slab together
with a range of other steel products, a separate remedy recommendation and a separate remedy
determination were made for slab: a tariff rate quota instead of a tariff. This rather novel approach of
differentiating the remedy that it applied to what are supposedly "like" products represents an implicit
acknowledgement that they are not really "like".1184 Similarly, according to China and the European
Communities, a final demonstration of the unsoundness of the United States' approach is that the
1179 USITC Publication 1553, pp. 10 and 15-23 (US-24).
1180 USITC Report, pp. OVERVIEW-8-9. complainants' attempts to distinguish slab from CCFRS in
other stages of processing fails to recognize that hot- rolled steel and cold-rolled steel also are primarily
feedstocks or "semi-finished products" and the fact that technological advances have resulted in less similarity
among such "semi-finished products" as slab, billets, ingots, and blooms than at the time of 1984 Steel. Japan's
first written submission, paras. 81 and 114; Brazil's first written submission, para. 81; New Zealand's firstwritten submission, paras. 4.60-4.62.
1181 United States' first written submission, paras. 131-135.
1182 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 30, 31 (Exhibit CC-6).
1183 Korea's second written submission, para. 46.
1184 New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.70.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 176
USITC Report (and the Presidential Proclamation) determine a separate remedy for slab; one of the
products aggregated into the CCFRS like product cat egory. The different remedy cannot be anything
other than an acknowledgement that this product is both physically different from other products in
the category, and that it also faces vastly different competitive conditions.1185
(b) Tin mill products
(i) General
7.422 Norway argues that the United States failed to correctly identify the domestic products which
are "like or directly competitive" with the specific imported product in relation. Japan also challenged
the like product determination given that the USITC failed to agree on a definition, meaning theUnited States failed to correlate the injury determination, like product definition, and the safeguard
measure.
1186
7.423 The United States insists that the USITC considered the facts, using long established factors
and looked for clear dividing lines among the various types of certain carbon and alloy flat steel
corresponding to imports subject to this investigation. The methodology employed by the USITC isunbiased and objective. The USITC's like product definitions regarding tin mill products are
consistent with Articles 2.1 and 4.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards and should be upheld by the
Panel.
1187
7.424 The United States recalls that the USITC started this analysis with the range of steel broadly
categorized as certain carbon and alloy flat products, all of which had been identified as importssubject to this investigation in the President's request (as well as the Senate Committee on Finance's
request). The USITC then applied its long established factors in considering whether to analyse
specific types of CCFRS separately or as a whole. After examining the evidence and conducting its
analysis regarding the corresponding domestic certain carbon and alloy flat products, four
Commissioners subdivided this category into three separate like products, one of which was definedas tin mill products, and two Commissioners determin ed that the steel in this category, including
tin mill, should be defined as a single like product.
1188 1189
7.425 According to the United States, tin mill products are cold-rolled steel that have been coated
with tin or chromium or chromium oxides.1190 In defining tin mill products as a separate like product,
Commissioner Miller found that the cold-rolled feedstock used to make tin mill products generally
was further processed than was required to produce other finished products although she recognized
that tin mill products shared common manufacturing processes with CCFRS and GOES.1191
1185 European Communities' first written submission, para. 255; China's first written submission,
para. 207.
1186 Norway's first written submission, para. 216; Japan's first written submission, paras. 153-157.
1187 United States' first written submission, para. 153.
1188 Four Commissioners found clear dividing lines so as to define three separate like products within
this category, and two Commissioners determined that this entire category was a single like product.Commissioners Okun, Hillman, Miller, and Koplan defined the following three separate like products: 1)certain carbon flat-rolled steel ("CCFRS"); 2) grain-oriented electrical steel ("GOES"); and 3) tin mill products.Commissioners Bragg and Devaney defined a single like product, consisting of carbon and alloy flat products(including slab, hot-rolled sheet and strip, cut-to-length plate, cold-rolled sheet and strip, corrosion resistant,
grain oriented electrical steel, and tin mill products).
1189 United States' first written submission, para. 143.
1190 USITC Report, p. FLAT-4.
1191 USITC Report, pp. 48-49.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 177
Commissioner Miller also found that tin mill products were overwhelmingly sold directly to end-
users, were sold almost exclusively by long-term contract to those end-users1192, and were used in the
production of containers, packaging and shipping materials.1193 She found that domestic and imported
tin mill products shared the same physical attributes, generally were interchangeable, and were
primarily sold to end-users under contract for the same uses.1194 In defining a single like product for
carbon and alloy flat products, including tin mill, Commissioner Bragg found that these carbon flat
products share certain basic physical properties, possess a common metallurgical base, and travel
through similar channels of distribution.1195 She recognized that there was limited overlap in end-
uses, but found that production was shifted among these products. In defining a single like productfor all flat products, including tin mill, Commissioner Devaney found that there was a continuous
manufacturing process for flat steel products. Regarding tin mill steel, he indicated that it was
dedicated at the inception of production as tin mill steel and used cold-rolled steel as its feedstock.
1196
7.426 Norway argues that on the basis of WTO jurisprudence in other cases, it can be deduced that
the United States should at least have looked at the following elements: (i) the physical properties ofthe products; (ii) the extent to which products are capable of serving the same or similar end-uses;
(iii) the extent to which consumers perceive and treat the products as alternative means of performing
particular functions in order to satisfy a particular want or demand; and (iv) the international
classification of the products for tariff purposes.
1197
7.427 The United States contends that Norway's allegations regarding the USITC's like product
definitions involving tin mill products are based on an erroneous interpretation of what factors the
USITC was either "required or not permitted" to consider in making its like product decisions.1198
Norway fails to recognize the factors suggested by the Working Party on Border Tax Adjustments ,
with respect to tax adjustments, were for a different purpose, and that "[n]o one approach to
exercising judgement will be appropriate for all cases".1199 Thus, the USITC was not required to
consider the four factors derived from the Working Party that are urged by Norway.1200
(ii) Like product criteria
Physical properties
7.428 Norway submits that the majority of the Commissioners defined the domestic industry as "all
producers of tin mill products"1201, thus making no distinctions between the various products included
in this group. The two other Commissioners employed even broader groupings related to all sorts of
flat products. In Norway's view, a flat product which is not coated with "tin" cannot be "like" another
product which is so coated. The first minimum requirement is thus that the products be coated.
Also, thicknesses and surfaces vary greatly depending on the end-use of the product.1202 This is well
1192 USITC Report, p. 48; USITC Report, Table FLAT-18.
1193 USITC Report, Table OVERVIEW-2 and p. FLAT-4.
1194 USITC Report, p. 49.
1195 USITC Report, pp. 272-273.
1196 USITC Report, pp. 36, n.65, 38, n.83, 43, n.126, 45, nn. 137 and 139.
1197 Appellate Body Report, EC – Asbestos , para. 101.
1198 Norway's first written submission, paras. 222-232.
1199 Appellate Body Report, EC – Asbestos , para. 101.
1200 United States' first written submission, para. 146.
1201 USITC Report, Vol. 1, footnote 367. (Exhibit CC-6)
1202 Tin mill products is the description of mainly 6 different product categories with sub-divisions,
made in tin mills:
1. Electrolytic coated tinplate – single reduced cold rolled, batch-annealed steel with a tin coatingWT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 178
exemplified by the specific exclusions provid ed for in the initial request by the USTR1203 where five
categories of tin mill products are excluded from the request based on their coating (chromium),thickness, width, length and chemical composition.
1204 Further examples of the different products
comprised within this group of products may be found in the later exclusions provided by the USTR,
where ten different tin mill products were excluded from the United States' measures on
22 August 2002.1205 Were one to look at flat products gl obally, as two Commissioners did, one would
1a. Electrolytic coated tinplate – sing le reduced cold rolled, continuos- annealed steel with a tin coating.
2. Electrolytic coated tinplate – dou ble reduced cold rolled, batch-an nealed steel with a tin coating.
2a. Electrolytic tinplate – double reduced cold rolled, continuos-annealed steel with a tin coating.3. Tin free steel (TFS) – single reduced cold rolle d, batch-annealed steel with chromium coating.
3a.Tin free steel (TFS) – single reduced cold rolled, continuos-annealed steel with chromium coating.
4. Tin free steel (TFS) – double reduced cold rolled, batch-annealed steel with chromium coating.4a. Tin free steel (TFS) – double reduced cold rolled, continuos-annealed steel with chromium coating.
5. Polymer coated steel – single reduced cold ro lled, batch-annealed steel with chromium coating,
covered with a polymer top coating.
5a. Polymer coated steel – single reduced cold rolled, continuos-ann ealed steel with chromium coating,
covered with a polymer top coating.
5b. Polymer coated steel – double reduced cold rolle d, batch-annealed steel with chromium coating,
covered with a polymer top coating.
5c. Polymer coated steel – double reduced cold rolled, continuos-annealed steel with chromium
coating, covered with a polymer top coating.
6. Black plate – single reduced cold rolled, batch- annealed steel, temper rolled with no coating.
Thickness – Gauge – of the Tin mill products is in following range:
Tinplate: 0.10 mm – 0.375 mm.
Flat rolled tinplate: 0.375 mm – 0.90 mm.
Tempergrade – hardness – of the Tin mill products is in following range:
Batch annealed: T1 – T 2 – T 3 – T 4.Continuos annealed: T 3 – T 4 – T 5 – T 6 – T 7.
Dimensions of the Tin mill products:
Plate: Rolling width min. 600 mm – max. 1100 mm. y)
Cut length min. 485 mm – max. 1180 mm.
Coil: Width min. 600 mm – max. 1180 mm.Slitted: Width min. 25 mm – max. 510 mm.
Different surface structure.
Bright, Light stone, Stone, Matt, or Silver
End use of Tin mill products:
Food packaging.Technical packaging. (Paint, lacquers, oil etc.)Beer and beverage cans.
Aerosol cans.
Closures. (Jars for jam etc.)Non – packaging applications. (Trays, oil-filters, convenience goods etc.)
1203 Exhibit CC-1.
1204 United States Trade Representative's (USTR) request to the United States International Trade
Commission (ITC) to initiate a safeguard investigation under Section 201 of the Trade Act of 1974, at Annex II.
(Exhibit CC-1).
1205 USTR, "List of additional products to be excluded from the Section 201 safeguards measures, as
established in Presidential Proclamation 7529 of March 5, 2002", August 22, 2002, available at the USTRWT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 179
see that there are stark differences in thicknesses, shape and finished stage between e.g. slabs and tin
mill products.1206
7.429 In the United States' view, Norway's challenge is directed not only at the definition of a single
like product for carbon flat products, but also to the definition of tin mill as a separate like product.
Norway, on one hand, points out that tin mill products could be defined as 6 to 13 different like
product categories and, on the other hand, refers to the different product exclusions requested and
granted to infer that each should have been defined as a separate like product. Thus, the issue for
Norway goes beyond whether the flat product is coated with "tin". Moreover, contrary to Norway's
allegations, the level of product distinction considered necessary for a product exclusion does notwarrant finding dozens of like products. The USITC looks for clear dividing lines in conducting its
like product analysis which is far from the narrow or microscopic lines that Norway urges. While
Norway alleges that there are different products within the tin mill group, it is not clear how narrow
Norway would have the USITC consider the uses for the product. Norway also seems to ignore the
fact that the USITC has no authority to exclude imports from those identified in the request or petitionas subject to investigation.
1207
End-use
7.430 Norway argues that the major end-uses of tin plate are the manufacture of welded cans. There
are, however, considerable differences between the end-uses depending on the thickness of the tin
mill plates. Oil filters for cars and soft drink cans require different thicknesses. The type ofproduction of the buyer will thus require different types of tin mill products. In this category, as
defined by the USITC and the President, chromium coated products are also included. The USITC
explains, in footnote 403 of its report, that chromium coated products have a different use from tin
coated products, due to differences in their surfaces. Tin-plate will be used for the can itself, because
of its shinier surface (which also makes it more suitable for paint) while chromium coated plates areemployed for the bottoms of cans. The USITC, in its discussion of the domestic industry producing
tin mill products, does not distinguish between the different products within the group. Its brief
discussion is premised on an assumption that all imports are a single article that is "like" the
domestically produced products. End uses is only referred to in passing, stating that "[T]in mill
products are used almost exclusively in the pro duction of containers, such as beverage cans,
packaging and shipping materials. They are unsuitable for other end-uses".
1208 Norway notes that it
is, nevertheless, clear from this statement that tin mill products are not interchangeable with other flatproducts. Norway also points out that the procedures for exclusion request to be granted by the USTR
as mandated in the Presidential Proclamation, details that the USTR will consider inter alia whether
the product is currently being produced in the United States, whether substitution is possible and
whether qualification requirements affect the requestor's ability to use domestic products.
1209 In light
website (Exhibit CC-92). This list shows that 10 different tin mill products, with specific product specifications,
are excluded.
1206 Norway's first written submission, para. 223.
1207 United States' first written submission, para. 148.
1208 USITC Report, Vol. I, at pp. 48-49. The citation is from p. 48, with original footnotes omitted.
(Exhibit CC-6)
1209 "Procedures for Further Consideration of Requests for Exclusions of Particular products from
Actions With Regard to Certain Steel products Under Section 203 of the Trade Act of 1974, as Established inthe Presidential Proclamation 7529 of March 5, 2002", Federal Register/ Vol. 67, N° 75/ 18 April 2002,p. 19307 (Exhibit CC-19).WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 180
of the exclusions granted ex post it would seem that the original determination of one single like
product is flawed.1210
7.431 In applying the traditional like product factors to the general category of carbon and alloy flat
steel, four Commissioners found a clear dividi ng line between CCFRS and tin mill products.1211 In
particular, they found that cold-rolled feedstock used to make tin mill products was further processed
than required to make CCFRS steel. In addition, tin mill is used, for example, for the production of
containers, packaging, and shipping materials. In contrast, CCFRS was used primarily in production
for the automotive and construction industries. Ti n mill steel was overwhelmingly sold directly to
end users, almost exclusively under long-term c ontracts, whereas the majority of CCFRS was
internally transferred for use in later stages of processing CCFRS.1212
Consumer perception
7.432 Norway submits that consumers of tin mill products, here understood as end-users of the
imported products and the like domestic products, should perceive that plates of different thicknesses
and with different coatings have different uses. This is not discussed by the USITC in its report.1213
Tariff classification
7.433 Norway submits that, in the United States, the tin mill products covered by the measure were
(before the imposition of extra duties) divided into four broad customs categories (7210.11.0000;
7210.12.0000; 7210.50.0000; and 7212.10.0000).1214 This indicates that there could be several
different "like" products. The different customs classifications are not discussed by the USITC in itsreport in respect of tin mill products. The only reference in passing can be found in footnote 176
1215
where reference is made to the fact that the USITC did not find consideration of customs treatment tobe a useful factor for the carbon and alloy flat products in this investigation. In Norway's view, the
United States failed to identify the domestic products that are "like or directly competitive" to the
specific imported product or products, by not making comparisons – at a minimum – against thecriteria for establishing likeness acknowledged in WTO jurisprudence. The findings of the United
States thus fall short of the requirement imposed by Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards that
the competent authorities determine that the domestic articles, the producers of which they want to
group into one domestic industry, are either a "single like product" or one or more directly
competitive products compared with specific imports.
1216
7.434 In response, the United States recalls that, as the Appellate Body has stated, "the adoption of a
particular framework to aid in the examination of evidence does not dissolve the duty or the need to
examine, in each case, all of the pertinent evidence".1217 The tariff classifications are interrelated with
the physical properties/characteristics criterion which the USITC clearly considered and found to be
an important factor in its like product definitions. The USITC exercised its discretionary judgement
to determine which factors were useful, and which were not, in examining the particular facts of this
investigation. While Norway seems to allege that the USITC should have defined its like productsusing tariff classifications, the evidence does not co mport with Norway's suggestions for 6 to 13 or
1210 Norway's first written submission, paras. 224-228.
1211 United States' first written submission, paras. 143-144; USITC Report, pp. 48-49.
1212 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 27 at the first substantive meeting.
1213 Norway's first written submission, para. 229.
1214 USITC Report, Vol. I, at p. 10 (Exhibit CC-6).
1215 USITC Report, Vol. I, at p. 49 (Exhibit CC-6)
1216 Norway's first written submission, paras. 230-232.
1217 Appellate Body Report, EC – Asbestos , para. 102.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 181
more like products. There are four tariff classifications at the ten-digit level and two at the four-digit
level covering tin mill products.1218
Production processes
7.435 Norway submits that because Congress intended Section 201 to "protect the productive
resources of domestic producers", rather than ameliorate unfair trade practices, the USITC has
considered "both the productive facilities and processes and the markets for these products" in making
its like products determination in the safeguards context, in addition to the like product factors.1219
According to Norway, this clearly goes beyond th e factors permitted by the Appellate Body is US –
Lamb as other products produced at the same facilities should not be included when defining the
domestic industry producing the like product. The six commissioners employed different groupings
when considering tin mill products. Of the commissioners treating "tin mill products" as one "like
product category", only one voted in favour of the measure. The two other commissioners voting in
favour of imposing a safeguards measure employed broader product categories.1220 The President,
when determining that measures should be imposed on a category he termed "tin mill products",based himself on the views of three commissioners looking at a domestic industry producing: (i) tin
mill products; (ii) carbon and alloy flat products; and (iii) all flat products respectively.
1221
7.436 The United States submits that contrary to Norway's contentions, the Appellate Body in US –
Lamb recognized that when confronted with the question of whether two articles are separate
products, "it may be relevant to inquire into the production processes for those products".1222
(iii) Identification of domestic producers
7.437 Norway also argues that the United States failed to appropriately define the domestic industry
of the like product and therefore acted inconsistently with its obligations under Articles 2.1 and 4 of
the Agreement on Safeguards and Article XIX:1(a) of the GATT 1994.1223 The USITC Report does
not explain who are the producers of the like product. The tables are deleted from the report.1224
Norway requested the information of table FLAT-1 during the consultations, but no such information
was forthcoming. Norway is, thus, unable to ascertain whether there, indeed, are domestic United
States' producers of any specific tin mill products and is also unable to ascertain whether there indeed
exists an industry injured by imports or the relevant ratios of imports to domestic production. This
lack of information on the relevant domestic industr y (companies and production) is a clear breach of
Article 4.1(c) of the Agreement on Safeguards. When all informative tables are excluded regarding
the domestic industry producing the like product, there is no way of ascertaining how thedeterminations are made, thus making it impossi ble to investigate a possible wrongdoing by the
United States. As such, this is also a breach of Article 3.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards , and this
information cannot be regarded as confidential information under Article 3.2. There is also a failure
to ensure that only producers of domestic articles that are "like or directly competitive" to the specific
imported product are grouped together in one domestic industry for the purpose of the investigationand determination. In respect of tin mill products, Norway refers to the USITC Report, Vol. 1 at
1218 United States' first written submission, para. 149.
1219 USITC Report, pp. 30-31.
1220 Commissioner Bragg, employed a category of " carbon and alloy flat products" (USITC Report,
p. 272) and Commissioner Devaney employed a category of "all flat products", see USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 36,footnote 65. (Exhibit CC-6)
1221 Norway's first written submission, paras. 216, 219-221.
1222 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb , para. 94, footnote 55.
1223 Norway's first written submission, para. 238.
1224 See USITC Report, p. I-72 and the asterisk for table FLAT-1 in volume II.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 182
page 72, where it is stated that an unspecified number of tin mill producers also produce a variety of
other types of CCFRS, including slab, and also hot-rolled end products (slabs). There is no evidencethat operating results from these parts of the firms have been singled out when addressing the
grouping "tin mill products". There is, thus, a strong presumption that also for tin mill products,
producers and facilities producing products that are not "like" have been included in the "domestic
industry", contrary to the requirement of the Agreement on Safeguards.
1225
7.438 The United States responds that Norway's contentions that the USITC "exclud[ed] all
informative tables regarding the domestic industry producing the like product"1226 is erroneous and
grossly misleading. The essence of Norway's allegation is that because the USITC did not releaseconfidential responses of individual producers of tin mill products, it must be assumed that the USITC
did not limit its analysis to producers of tin mill products. This allegation is only relevant to the
determination of Commissioner Miller, since each of the definitions of like product and corresponding
domestic industry made by Commissioners Bragg and Devaney considered data for the carbon and
alloy flat products and not the tin mill specific data. This complaint centres on one table (TableFLAT-1) in the USITC Report which lists individual domestic producers responding to the USITC
questionnaire and provides their individual production data by type of carbon and alloy flat steel that
they produce. Individual firm data provided in response to the USITC questionnaires and the firms
responding to the USITC questionnaires is considered confidential business information and not
publicly released. Rather, the individual firm data generally is publicly released in aggregate form asit was here. Norway ignores the fact that individual tin mill production data was combined and
publicly released in aggregate form in Table FLAT-18.
1227 Contrary to Norway's allegations, the fact
that the USITC has not publicly released the identity of those responding to the questionnaires or the
individual producer data does not provide a "strong presumption" that products other than tin mill
products were included in USITC's domestic industry analysis.1228 Norway fails to show how release
of the individual firm data would show anythi ng more than whether the USITC can simply add
correctly. The Panel need not only have to rely on the USITC's representations alone concerning the
proper aggregation of appropriate data on tin mill production. Parties to the underlying safeguards
investigation did not challenge the USITC's aggregation of the tin mill data, including counsel to
parties that had access to the contested table along with all other confidential business information,
under Administrative Protective Order.1229 1230
7.439 Norway responds that the USITC Report states that an unspecified number of tin mill
producers also produce a variety of other types of CCFRS, including slab and also hot-end production
(slabs).1231 The crucial importance of this integration is the failure of the United States to ensure
separation of operating costs and results for tin mill products as separate from CCFRS because of the
diverging "like product analyses" involved.1232 There is no evidence that the operating results from
these parts of the firms have been separated out when establishing which firms are the "producers ofthe like product".
1233 When this is not done, one gets an incorrect assessment of injury to the tin mill
industry, as the alleged injury may be caused to other parts of the operations of these firms. This is
1225 Norway's first written submission, paras. 233-237.
1226 Norway's first written submission, para. 239.
1227 USITC Report, Tables FLAT-10, FLAT-18, FLAT-26, FLAT-46, FLAT-57, FLAT-58, FLAT-59,
FLAT-63, FLAT-75, FLAT-76, FLAT-78, FLAT-79, FLAT-80, and FLAT-C-8.
1228 Norway's first written submission, para. 237.
1229 Under US law, confidential business information is released to counsel for parties under
administrative protective order.
1230 United States' first written submission, paras. 150-154.
1231 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 72.
1232 Norway's written reply to Panel question No. 20 at the second substantive meeting.
1233 Norway's first written submission, paragraph 236.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 183
what happened for the analyses by at least Commi ssioners Bragg and Devaney. Norway still cannot
understand why the names of the tin mill producers (as the USITC defines the industry) areconfidential (and the United States has given no explanation of why this is necessary,) and does
consider that this in itself represents a breach of Article 4.1(c) of the Agreement on Safeguards.
Norway also notes that whatever counsels to individual firms may or may not know
1234 is irrelevant to
the United States' obligations under the Agreement on Safeguards towards other Member States to
provide a report that details all relevant issues of law and fact.1235
7.440 Brazil adds that three of the principal producers of tin mill products – Bethlehem Steel,
Weirton Steel, and US Steel are fully integrated mills producing a full range of CCFRS products,including slab.
1236 The fourth producer, Ohio Coatings, is a joint venture and, in effect, the tin mill
line of vertically integrated Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel, which produces a full range of CCFRS
products and is 50% owner of Ohio Coatings.1237 The fifth producer, US Steel-Posco is a joint
venture between United States Steel Corporation and Posco of Korea, both vertically integrated
producers of a full range of CCFRS products. However, US Steel-Posco is not vertically integrated.It has no raw steel making capacity, no slab production and no hot strip mill. Rather, it purchases
domestic and imported CCFRS products and processes these products through cold rolling,
galvanizing and tin mill lines.
1238 1239
7.441 The United States responds that, indeed, a number of tin mill producers also produce types of
CCFRS. However, the United States does not agree with Norway's assertions that data for productionof other types of steel were included in the data for tin mill products. Norway's contentions are
erroneous. The essence of Norway's allegation is that because the USITC did not release confidential
responses of individual producers of tin mill products, it must be assumed that the USITC did not
limit its analysis to producers of tin mill products. Norway fails to recognize that the reason why this
issue is only relevant to the determination of Commissioner Miller is because Commissioners Braggand Devaney did not define tin mill as a separate like product. Thus, the fact that Commissioners
Bragg and Devaney did not separate out tin mill data is because they did not find tin mill products to
be a separate like product/domestic industry. They defined carbon and alloy flat steel, including tin
mill, as a single domestic like product and, appropriately, looked at data for carbon and alloy flat
products and not the tin mill-specific data. Norway's allegation centres on one table (Table FLAT-1)
in the USITC Report which lists individual domestic producers responding to the USITC
questionnaire and provides individual production data by type of carbon and alloy flat steel that eachproduces. Individual firm data provided in response to USITC questionnaires and the firms
responding to the USITC questionnaires is considered confidential business information and not
publicly released. Rather, the individual firm data generally is publicly released in aggregate form as
it was here. The United States notes that it is not the only country that withholds the names of
questionnaire respondents. Norway ignores the fact that individual tin mill production data wascombined and publicly released in aggregate form in a number of tables, including Table FLAT-26,
which includes financial data and operating results.
1240 Contrary to Norway's allegations, the fact that
the USITC has not publicly released the identity of those responding to the questionnaires or the
1234 United States' first written submission, paragraph 154
1235 Norway's second written submission, paras. 73-75.
1236 See Iron and Steel Works of the World (14th Edition), Metal Bulletin Books Ltd. (2001), pp. 647-48,
714-715 and 717-718.
1237 Ibid. at 693.
1238 Ibid at 716.
1239 Brazil's written reply to Panel question No. 20 at the second substantive meeting.
1240 USITC Report, Tables FLAT-10, FLAT-18, FLAT-26, FLAT-46, FLAT-57, FLAT-58, FLAT-59,
FLAT-63, FLAT-75, FLAT-76, FLAT-78, FLAT-79, FLAT-80, and FLAT-C-8.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 184
individual producer data does not provide a "strong presumption" that products other than tin mill
products were included in the USITC's domestic industry analysis, nor may any presumption, strongor otherwise, be drawn.
1241 The United States submits that this complainant fails to show how release
of the individual firm data would show anything more than whether the USITC can correctly tally the
individual company information. In the USITC's questionnaire, domestic producers were clearly
instructed to provide separate data for tin mill. Each domestic producer was required to certify the
truthfulness of its questionnaire responses. The Panel need not rely solely on the USITC's
representations concerning the proper aggregation of appropriate data on tin mill production. Parties
to the underlying safeguards investigation had access to all of the individual company data; thisincluded counsel to parties that had access to the contested table along with all other confidential
business information, under administrative protective order.
1242 None of them challenged the USITC's
aggregation of individual company data on tin mill ma terial. The USITC is confident that the tin mill
data provided in the USITC Report does not include data for other types of steel.1243
(c) Welded pipe
(i) General
7.442 Korea and Switzerland argue that for the category of welded pipe products, the USITC
acknowledges that "welded pipe encompasses a ra nge of products, including both commodity and
speciality products"1244, but analysed neither the various types of welded tubular products nor the
different end-uses of those where "the various forms of welded pipe are made by the same process,largely by the same firms, in the same facilities and on the same equipment and are used for the same
purposes, namely the conveyance of steam, water, oil, gas and other fluid".
1245 It declined to identify
specific products by pointing to: (i) the common physical properties and characteristics of those
products; (ii) their common end-use; (iii) the customs classification; and (d) consumer
perceptions.1246
7.443 The United States insists that the USITC consid ered the facts present in this investigation
using long established factors and looked for clear dividing lines among the various types of certain
carbon and alloy pipe and tube subject to this investigation. The methodology employed by the
USITC is unbiased and objective. The USITC's definition of certain welded pipe as a single like
product is consistent with Articles 2.1 and 4.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards and should be upheld
by the Panel.1247 The USITC started this analysis with the range of steel broadly categorized as certain
carbon and alloy pipe and tube, all of which had been identified as imports subject to thisinvestigation in the President's request (as well as the Senate Committee on Finance's request). After
examining the evidence and conducting its analysis regarding the corresponding domestic certain
carbon and alloy pipe and tube, the USITC found clear dividing lines so as to delineate four separate
like products.
1248 The USITC found that domestic certain welded pipe was like the corresponding
1241 Norway's first written submission, para. 237.
1242 Under US law, confidential business information is released to representatives for parties, usually
outside counsel and economic consultants, under administrative protective order.
1243 United States' written reply to Panel question 20 at the second substantive meeting.
1244 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 383.
1245 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 154-155 (emphasis added) (Exhibit CC-6).
1246 Korea's first written submission, paras. 61; Switzerland's first written submission, paras. 207-208.
1247 United States' first written submission, para. 171.
1248 Four Commissioners found clear dividing lines and defined four separate certain carbon and alloy
pipe and tube like products from this category, and two Commissioners divided this category into three separatelike products. Commissioners Okun, Hillman, Miller, and Koplan defined the following four separate likeproducts: 1) welded pipe, other than OCTG ("certain welded pipe"); 2) seamless pipe, other than OCTG; 3)WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 185
imported certain welded pipe.1249 The USITC applied its long established factors in considering
whether there existed clear dividing lines between specific types of welded pipe.1250 T h e U S I T C
found that certain welded pipe included tubular products that have a weld seam that runs either
longitudinally or spirally along the length of the product. Welded pipe is used in the conveyance of
water, petrochemicals, oil products, natural gas, and other substances in industrial piping systems.
The presence of a welded seam generally makes certain welded pipe slightly less reliable and durable
than seamless tubular products. Thus, it is used to transport liquids at or near atmospheric pressure
rather than for high pressure containment.1251 The various types of welded pipe in this investigation
include standard pipe and pipe used primarily for mechanical, line, pressure, and structuralpurposes.
1252 Welded pipe is generally produced on electric resistance weld (ERW) mills. The
USITC found that the various forms of welded pipe are made by the same process, largely by the
same firms, in the same facilities and on the same equipment and are used for the same purposes,
namely the conveyance of steam, water, oil, gas, a nd other fluids at or near atmospheric pressure.1253
7.444 The European Communities submits that the United States has not adequately responded to
the specific arguments why the products grouped as certain tubular products were not like due to their
different physical properties and functions. On pages 147 and 148 of the USITC Report, the USITC
did not do more than asserting that "there are four domestic industries producing articles like the
corresponding imported articles subject to investigation within the tubular products category". The
other reference, on page 158, after a discussion as to whether the domestic industry producing FFTJ(sic) should be defined as a separate industry, the USITC simply repeated its previous conclusion that
"there are four domestic industries producing articles like or directly competitive with the
corresponding imported articles subject to investigation within the tubular products category",
although with a puzzling extension to the broader concept of "directly competitive" products without
any supportive analysis between pages 147 and 157. This is neither a sufficient like nor directlycompetitive product analysis, because it is not based on a reasoned consideration of all relevant
criteria as laid out above. Specifically, as can be learned from Chapter 73 of the HS, which is
contained in exhibit CC-105, internationally agreed customs classifications at the four and six-digit
level separate welded pipe on the basis both of size and function.
1254 This and all the arguments made
by Korea and Switzerland in this respect, which the European Communities adopts, further
corroborates that the products bundled as welded pipe are not "like or directly competitive".1255
7.445 The United States submits that no importance shou ld be attached to the reference to "directly
competitive" with respect to the USITC's consid eration of welded tubular products. The USITC
clearly made a finding for each of the four tubular products on the basis of a like product analysis and
not on the basis of a directly competitive product analysis.1256 Moreover, there is a footnote to this
OCTG, welded and seamless; and 4) fittings, flanges, and tool joints. Commissioners Bragg and Devaney
defined the following three separate like products: 1) carbon and alloy welded tubular products (includingwelded tubular other than OCTG and welded OCTG); 2) carbon and alloy seamless tubular products (includingseamless tubular other than OCTG and seamless OCTG); and 3) carbon and alloy fittings, flanges, and tooljoints.
1249 USITC Report, p. 147, footnote 893. This issue was not disputed in the underlying proceeding.
1250 USITC Report, pp. 147-157.
1251 USITC Report, p. TUBULAR-2.
1252 Certain welded pipe used in the movement of o il and gas is produced to standards set by American
Petroleum Institute (API), while many other forms of certain welded pipe are produced to standards set by theAmerican Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the American Water Works Association (AWWA).
1253 United States' first written submission, paras. 156-157
1254 Paras. 73.05 and 73.06.
1255 European Communities' second written submission, paras. 283-285.
1256 USITC Report, p. 147.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 186
sentence in which the USITC explicitly states that it did not make findings on the basis of a directly
competitive product analysis.1257 The USITC's findings on the basis of a like product, and not directly
competitive product, analysis for each of these four like products is clearly demonstrated in its
discussion, its findings section and the noted footnote. The summation sentence which refers to
"domestic industr[ies] producing … article[s] like or directly competitive with … [the] imported
article[s]"1258 merely recites the United States' statutory language.1259 The United States believe that,
in spite of the inadvertent inclusion of "directly competitive", that it is clear that the USITC's findings
were on the basis of a like product analysis.1260
7.446 The European Communities, Japan, Korea and Norway also submit that no significance
should be attached to the mentioned reference. The European Communities notes that the assertion
on page 157 of the USITC Report that imported welded pipe, fittings and flanges and domestic ones
are "directly competitive" has been explained as "clerical error".1261
7.447 The United States submits that complainants who challenge the like product definition for
certain welded pipe do not agree on what the definition should have been; Korea seems to proposetwo like products based on size and Switzerland seems to propose three like products based on
function.
1262 1263
(ii) Like product criteria
General
7.448 Korea submits that the USITC rejected arguments that LDLP (16 inches or over) should be
treated as a separate like product.1264 The USITC analysis failed to address the key product
characteristics of LDLP versus other welded pipe and their different applications (end-uses). Instead,
just as with CCFRS, the USITC focused on the common United States' production facilities and
"continuum" of production by United States producers for its like product determination while
rejecting the utility of Customs classification as well as the like product determination in theconcurrent anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations of LDLP from Japan and Circular
Welded Non-Alloy Pipe from China. The Appellate Body in US – Lamb rejected this "continuum" of
production approach
1265 where, as here, the products are fundamentally different.1266 1267
1257 USITC Report, p. 147, footnote 893.
1258 USITC Report, p. 157.
1259 See Trade Act of 1974, § 202(c)(4), 19 USC. § 2252(c)(4).
1260 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 22 at the second substantive meeting.
1261 European Communities', Japan's, Korea's and Norway's written replies to Panel question No. 22 at
the second substantive meeting.
1262 Korea's first written submission, paras. 41-44; Switzerland first written submission, paras. 209-225.
See the discussion in section VII.D.1(c).
1263 United States' first written submission, para. 104.
1264 While arguments could have been made that other products within the USITC's welded category
were also separate like products, these other products in the welded category were much smaller in quantity than
LDLP and, in large part, appeared to follow similar demand patterns as the largest component, standard pipe.
1265 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb , para. 90.
1266 Moreover, the record does not even support the conclusion that there was an overlap in production.
According to the USITC, "[o]f the seven firms that reported the capability to produce welded large diameter line
pipe in 2000, [only] three of those firms also indicated that they produced smaller sizes of welded pipe in 1998."USITC Report, Vol. I , p. 155, footnote 952 (Exhibit CC-6).
1267 Korea's first written submission, paras. 61-63.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 187
7.449 Switzerland contends that, if the USITC had actually applied its traditional methodology and
applied, at least, the criteria of end-use, customs classification and physical properties, it would havecome to the conclusion that the category of welded tubular products as it was defined could not serve
as a basis in order to identify like or directly competitive products because it bundled together too
many different products.
1268
Physical properties
7.450 The United States argues that the USITC considered arguments that it should find that large
diameter line pipe (pipe 16 inches or over in outside diameter) was a separate like product from other
welded pipe.1269 The evidence showed that while welded large diameter line pipe generally is made
on mills designed to make large pipe, these mills also are capable of producing other types of large
diameter pipe, such as pipe for water transmission, piling, and structural members.1270 A substantial
portion of welded large diameter line pipe is made by the ERW process1271, which is the process used
to make virtually all types of certain welded pipes.1272 Moreover, many of the firms that produce
welded large diameter line pipe also produce other welded pipe that is less than 16 inches in outsidediameter. Large and small diameter welded pipe also share common physical characteristics,
particularly a weld seam that has an effect on its uses relative to other tubular products such as
seamless pipe. Based on this evidence, the USITC found large and small welded pipe to be part of a
continuum of certain welded pipe and saw no reason to define large diameter line pipe separately
from other certain welded pipe.
1273 An important factor in the USIT C's finding of a clear dividing line
between certain welded pipe and other tubular products was the physical characteristic of the welded
seam. All welded pipe, large and small, share the common physical characteristic of a weld seam that
runs either longitudinally or spirally along the length of the product and that has an effect on the pipe's
uses relative to other tubular products such as seamless pipe. The presence of a welded seam
generally makes certain welded pipe slightly less reliable and durable than seamless tubular products.The USITC found that welded pipe ranging from small to large shared similarities in physical
characteristics, uses, marketing channels, and production processes as discussed above to be part of a
continuum of certain welded pipe and saw no clear dividing lines to define separate like products
within this continuum.
1274
7.451 Switzerland submits that the USITC considered that all the pipes belonged to the same
category. However, pipes are made out of very different and subtle chemical compositions of steel,
depending on the purpose of their use. The difference is due to the diversity of the alloys (aluminium,boron, etc.) added to the steel. There are approved norms indicating the tolerance of the various
chemical components possibly entering into the composition of the steels. These various nuances in
composition have precise consequences namely on the resistance, the elongation, the harden ability
1268 Switzerland's second written submission, para. 55.
1269 Prehearing Brief of European Steel Tube Association (September 12, 2001), pp. 3-6 (US-30).
1270 USITC Report, p. 154, citing Certain Welded Large Diameter Line Pipe From Japan and Mexico ,
USITC Publication 3400, pp. I-5-6 (March 2001) (US-29).
1271 In 2000, 45.6% of domestic welded large diameter line pipe was produced by the ERW process as
compared to 54.4% by the SAW process. Certain Welded Large Diameter Line Pipe From Japan and Mexico ,
USITC Publication 3400, Table 1-2, p. I-14 (March 2001) (US-29). ERW pipe is normally produced in sizesfrom 2 3/8 inches through 24 inches outside diameter. Id. at I-5.
1272 Certain Pipe and Tube from Argentina, Brazil, Canada, India, Korea, Mexico, Singapore, Taiwan,
Thailand, Turkey, and Venezuela , Invs. Nos. 701-TA-253 (Review) and 731-TA-132, 252, 271, 273, 276, 277,
296, 409, 410, 532-534, 536, and 537 (Review), USITC Publication 3316, p. CIRC-I-19 (July 2000) (US-31).
1273 United States' second written submission, para. 90.
1274 United States' second written submission, para. 91.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 188
and the cold forming of steels. In other words, the different and very subtle compositions of steels are
determinant in characterising their quality, and therefore the quality of the products made of them.1275
7.452 Korea rejects the United States' argument that that welded non-OCTG pipe has a "weld" so it
was treated as a single like product. Korea submits that this is at best a perfunctory analysis.1276 The
other two products in the pipe and tube category, OCTG and pipe fittings, also have a weld but they
were treated as separate like products by the USITC in the same investigation. The United States
refers to this as a deciding factor but do not explain its lack of significance for "welded" OCTG which
was grouped with seamless OCTG as a single like product.1277 1278
7.453 Switzerland recalls that the USITC Report only mentions that the physical differences begin
with the chemistry of the steel in the billet or hot-rolled strip, and continue through the forming and
finishing process. It also says that seamless pipes are more reliable, and that pipe used in OCTG
applications must meet higher standards than pipe used in line pipe, which in turn must meet higher
standards than so-called standard pipe.1279 Switzerland considers that this analysis is too vague and
that it does not reflect the importance that the United States claims the USITC did give to this factor.Switzerland submits that the USITC did not analyse the common properties and physical
characteristics of the products it compared in depth enough and therefore could not draw any
conclusion in this respect.
1280
End-use
7.454 Korea submits that the USITC itself said in the introductory section describing its like product
determination that there were grounds to distinguish the five like products in the tubular category as
follows: "Most pipe is made to standards that reflect its intended use, and this affects the physical
properties of the pipe.... Pipe used in OCTG applicati ons must meet higher standards than pipe used in
line pipe, which in turn must meet higher standards than so-called standard pipe.1281 Yet, the USITC
did not reach the obvious conclusion that these major distinctions in end-use should have resulted in a
separate like product for LDLP as well.1282 1283
7.455 Korea points out that LDLP is primarily used in the transmission of oil and gas so that
demand for LDLP correlates with changes in oil and gas prices and the level of activity in the energy
sector more generally ( i.e., investment in large-scale pipeline projects).1284 In contrast, the remaining
products in the non-OCTG welded pipe category (standard pipe being the largest component) tend to
track general economic conditions.1285 As a consequence, demand trends for line pipe depend on the
level of activity in the energy sector while the demand for other tubular products tends to move in line
1275 Switzerland's first written submission, para. 209.
1276 United States' first written submission , para. 157; United States' written reply to Panel question
No. 148 at the first substantive meeting.
1277 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 148 at the first substantive meeting; United
States' written reply to Korea's question No. 1(d) at the first substantive meeting.
1278 Korea's second written submission, paras. 75-76.
1279 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 151
1280 Switzerland's second written submission, paras. 62-63.
1281 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 151 (Exhibit CC-6).
1282 Korea's second written submission, paras. 71-72 and 84.
1283 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 149 (footnote omitted; emphasis added) (Exhibit CC-6).
1284 Joint Respondents' Prehearing Brief for Welded Other , p. 33 (Exhibit CC-78); Joint Respondents'
Posthearing Brief for Welded Other , Exhibit 1 – pp. 24-25, 29-30, 35-37, 40-45 (Exhibit CC-79).
1285 USITC Report, Vol. II, p. TUBULAR-43 (Exhibit CC-6).WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 189
with general economic conditions.1286 The USITC actually acknowledged the "recent increase in
demand for large diameter line pipe" and projected "growth due to rising demand for pipelineprojects" in the context of its threat of injury anal ysis but completely failed to address these separate
demand conditions and applications in the like product analysis.
1287 In fact, demand was falling for
standard pipe at the end of the investigation period but increasing for large diameter line pipe.1288
Commissioner Okun, in her separate remedy recommendation specifically referenced "the diversenature of demand … in particular the divergent trends in demand for pipeline projects and for other
applications".
1289 Therefore, the USITC was aware of these important distinctions between LDLP and
other welded pipe. It simply ignored those differ ences for purposes of their like product analysis.1290
7.456 Switzerland also argues that, contrary to what the USITC said, welded tubular products (other
than OCTG) can be divided into three large categories : the "pipes" whose finality is to conduct fluids
(e.g. oil carried by pipelines); the mechanical tubes used for mechanical purposes (e.g. scaffoldings);
and the precision tubes intended to conduct forces and used by the automotive industry (e.g.
assembled camshafts, shock absorbers, etc.). In addition, precision tubes falling under the category ofwelded tubular products (other than OCTG) are intended to conduct forces and used by the
automotive industry. They have a different end-use as other products falling in the above-mentioned
categories as their purpose is not to convey steam, water, oil, gas and other fluids. They are of high
quality because of their chemical properties and because also of the precision of their manufacturing.
The consistency of that quality is determinant for security reasons.
1291 Switzerland adds that some of
the tubes are indeed used to conduct fluids (e.g. oil carried by pipelines), while others are precision
tubes intended to conduct forces and used by the automotive sector (e.g. camshafts used in internal
combustion engines to actuate valves at precise timi ng intervals). Although hydraulic fluids also go
through precision tubes, this is just a mechanism to convey forces and not the end-use of such tubes,
the end-use being to make for instance a car work. On the contrary, tubes for the purpose of theconveyance of water, oil or gas have as their end-use the conveyance of such fluids for instance to
consumers.
1292
7.457 In the United States' view, Switzerland seems to contend that the USITC should have
separated certain welded pipe into at least three separate like products, primarily by function or use –
pipes used to conduct fluids, mechanical tubes used for mechanical purposes, and precision tubes
intended to conduct forces and used by the automotive industry.1293 However, it also seems to argue
that separate like products should have been defined by tariff classification (40 like products)1294,
1286 USITC Report, Vol. II , p. TUBULAR-43 (Exhibit CC-6) ("Demand for tubular products will
depend on both general economic conditions, as increased production and construction spurs demand forseamless and welded, and conditions in the somewhat counter-cyclical oil and gas industry, as increased energyprices spur increased drilling, extraction, and refining (and thus demand for both OCTG and line pipe)").
1287 USITC Report, Vol. I , p. 166 (Exhibit CC-6).
1288 USITC Report, Vol. I , p. 166 (Exhibit CC-6) (ITC acknowledging the increase in demand for large
diameter line pipe and the projections for continued growth but noting that overall demand for the categorystabilized, when both standard and line pipe products are viewed together).
1289 USITC Report, Vol. I, "View of Vice Chairman Deanna Tanner Okun on Remedy", p. 482
(Exhibit CC-6).
1290 Korea's first written submission, paras. 66-68.
1291 Switzerland's first written submission, paras. 210-219.
1292 Switzerland's second written submission, para. 56.
1293 Switzerland's first written submission, para. 210.
1294 Switzerland's first written submission, paras. 220-223.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 190
different physical properties such as different chemical composition1295, specific use in the automotive
industry, particularly for precision tubes (8)1296, and consumer perceptions (8).1297 1298
7.458 Switzerland contends that the USITC considered that all welded tubular products (other than
OCTG) are used in the conveyance of water, petrochemicals, oil products, natural gas, and other
substances in industrial piping systems. In reality, however, the USITC grouped into this category
also products which are used as precision tubes to convey forces – e.g. in cars – which are products
very different from the ones mentioned by the USITC. If products so different are bundled together,
the standard of likeness becomes impossible to apply.1299
7.459 The United States insists that the USITC found that certain welded pipe included tubular
products that have a weld seam that runs either longitudinally or spirally along the length of the
product. Certain welded pipe is used in the conveyance of water, petrochemicals, oil products, natural
gas, and other substances in industrial piping systems. The presence of a welded seam generally
makes certain welded pipe slightly less reliable and durable than seamless tubular products. Thus, it
is used to transport liquids at or near atmospheric pressure rather than for high pressurecontainment.
1300 The various types of certain welded pipe in this investigation include standard pipe
and pipe used primarily for mechanical, line, pressure, and structural purposes.1301 Certain welded
pipe is generally produced on electric resistance weld (ERW) mills. The USITC found that the
various forms of certain welded pipe are made by the same process, largely by the same firms, in the
same facilities and on the same equipment and are used for the same purposes, namely theconveyance of steam, water, oil, gas, and other fluids at or near atmospheric pressure.
1302
7.460 Korea notes that the end-use of LDLP determin ed that the demand was more similar to OCTG
(oil and gas demand) than the other welded pipe (general economic trends). The USITC record
confirms that demand for LDLP was based on its distinct use for the movement of oil and gas and the
demand trends were distinct.1303 1304 Korea submits that the United States does not deny that LDLP
does not compete with other welded pipe due to differences in specifications and use.1305 In fact, a
critical factor for finding welded and seamless OCTG as single like product was that they both
"compete with each other" and are "often used interchangeably".1306 Yet, this factor was ignored for
LDLP. The United States seeks to avoid the question on competition by referring to the physical
1295 Switzer land's first written submission, para. 209.
1296 Switzerland's first written submission, paras. 211-219. For example, they discuss eight types of
precision tubes used in the automotive industry which they seem to imply should have been defined as separate
like products. Based on their descriptions, it is evident that many of these precision tubes contain hydraulic
fluid; the carrying of fluids, however, was used as a fact or to allege that "pipes" could be distinguished as a
separate like product.
1297 Switzerland's first written submission, paras. 224-225.
1298 United States' first written submission, para. 169.
1299 Switzerland's second written submission, para. 53.
1300 USITC Report, p. TUBULAR-2.
1301 Certain welded pipe used in the movement of o il and gas is produced to standards set by American
Petroleum Institute (API), while many other forms of certain welded pipe are produced to standards set by theAmerican Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the American Water Works Association (AWWA).
1302 United States' second written submission, para. 89.
1303 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 166 (Exhibit CC-6). Accord Certain Welded Large Diameter Line Pipe
From Japan , USITC Publication 3464, pp. 14-15 (Exhibit K-8).
1304 Korea's second written submission, paras. 85-86.
1305 United States' replies to questions from other Parties, para. 44.
1306 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 152 (Exhibit CC-6).WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 191
characteristics – "welded seam" – as an important factor. As noted, welded-OCTG also has a welded
seam, so Korea does not see that this can qualify as a "clear dividing line".1307
Consumer perception
7.461 Switzerland submits that having very different end-uses, consumers would perceive precision
tubes intended to conduct forces and used by the automotive industry as different from tubes used for
the purpose of conveyance of steam, water, oil, gas and other fluids.1308
Tariff classification
7.462 Korea argues that the USITC never analysed whether HS classifications could provide a
useful starting point for the analysis of whether LD LP should be considered a separate like product.
In fact, HTS categories 7305.11-7305.19 apply only to LDLP.1309 This distinction between the HS
classifications of line pipe and the HS classifications of the other welded pipe confirms a significant
difference in the products themselves and should have been considered by the USITC. The USITC
ignored other significant evidence in the record and its own precedent which demonstrated that there
are significant differences in the products.1310 The USITC acknowledged that pipe used in line pipe
applications must meet higher standards than "so-called standard pipe"1311 and that the distinct
physical characteristics of each product reflect their distinct use.1312 1313 Korea adds that the
difference in tariff classifications reflects the fact that the large diameter line pipe which is included in
this investigation (small diameter line pipe imports are subject to a separate safeguards case and thus
are not subject to this investigation) is produced to completely different specifications.1314 1315
7.463 Similarly, Switzerland argues that the USITC also rejected the use of the customs
classifications of tubular products as not "useful" because of the large number of HTS categories.
With respect to pipe and tube, the USITC correctly noted that "the (non-OCTG) welded pipe in this
investigation includes standard pipe and pipe used primarily for mechanical, line, pressure, and
1307 Korea's second written submission, paras. 87-88.
1308 Switzerland's first written submission, para. 224.
1309 Small diameter line pipe was excluded from the case since safeguard measures already applied to
that product. (Exhibit CC-1, Annex II.)
1310 Joint Respondents' Prehearing Brief for Welded Other, pp. 9-10 (Exhibit CC-78); Joint
Respondents' Posthearing Brief for Welded Other, Exhibit 1 – pp. 29-30 (Exhibit CC-79) (suggesting inresponse to USITC questions that data should have been collected separately on at least two like products inCategory 20); USITC Report, Vol. II , p. TUBULAR-43 (Exhibit CC-6) (noting that "[s]ome respondent welded
importers divide the welded market into large diameter welded for line pipe (which they estimate as 20-30% of
the US welded market) and other welded, generally standard pipe").
1311 USITC Report, Vol. I , p. 151 (Exhibit CC-6) (the USITC cited this same factor as a basis for
treating OCTG as a separate like product than other tubular products).
1312 Standard pipe is pipe "ordinarily used for low-pressure conveyance of air, steam, gas, water, oil, or
other fluids used for mechanical applications. It is used primarily in machinery, buildings, sprinkler systems,
irrigation systems, and water wells rather than in pipe lines or utility distribution systems. It may carry fluids at
elevated temperatures which are not subject to external heat applications. It is usually produced in standard
diameters and wall thicknesses to ASTM . . . specifications." USITC Report, Vol. I , p. 149, n. 912
(Exhibit CC-6) (quoting the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) definition of standard pipe) (emphasisadded). "AISI defines line pipe as pipe 'used for the transportation of gas, oil, or water generally in a pipeline orutility distribution system. It is produced to API . . . and AWWA (American Water Works Association)
specifications.'" USITC Report, Vol. I , p. 149, n. 912 (Exhibit CC-6).
1313 Korea's first written submission, paras. 64-66.
1314 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 149 (footnote omitted; emphasis added) (Exhibit CC-6).
1315 Korea's second written submission, para. 84.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 192
structural purposes".1316 As respondents in opposition to import relief further specified, the USITC's
welded pipe category included circular welded standard pipe1317, LDLP, structural pipe, square and
rectangular pipe, and piling pipe.1318 The category also included mechanical tubing and boiler tubing,
which accounted for a small percentage of the imports.1319 LDLP, the second largest single import
component of USITC Category 20, after circular welded standard pipe, accounted for approximately
30% of world imports of Category 20 in interim 2001 and is easily identified.1320 The LDLP products
were easily segregated from the rest of the welded category based on the USITC's concurrent anti-
dumping investigation of that industry.1321 A breakdown of the HTS numbers covering LDLP
products subject to the 201 investigation, and the correlating import statistics for LDLP, were placedon the record early in the investigation by Joint Respondents in opposition to relief.
1322 These figures
formed the basis for a variety of separate analyses of the vastly different market forces affecting the
large diameter line pipe industry. Yet, the USITC rejected the use of customs classification as
relevant to the segregation of LDLP from other circular welded pipe and tube. Switzerland submits
that the lack of any analysis of tariff classification runs counter the guidance provided by theAppellate Body in EC – Asbestos where it clarified that customs classifications provide important
indications for the like-product determination which must be considered. The existence of many
different classifications is no excuse for not considering them at all for the purpose of the like product
determination. To the contrary, this suggests that the products concerned are not alike.
1323
7.464 The United States submits that Korea and Switzerland mistakenly contend that the primary
basis for the USITC's like product definitions should have been tariff classification. They focus on
the products of interest to them in arguing that tariff classifications would have permitted the USITC
to segregate these types of certain welded pipe. Under their approach, the USITC would arguably
have had to define separate like products for each of the 40 classifications using the ten-digit level,
despite similarities in physical characteristics, uses, marketing channels, and production processes forthe continuum of certain welded pipe.
1324 The Appellate Body has stated, "the adoption of a particular
framework to aid in the examination of evidence doe s not dissolve the duty or the need to examine, in
each case, all of the pertinent evidence".1325 In spite of the complainants' contentions, the USITC
clearly considered all of the evidence pertinent to defining the appropriate like product. The tariff
classifications are interrelated with the physical properties/characteristics criterion which the USITC
clearly considered and found to be an important factor in its like product definitions. In particular, the
physical characteristic of the welded seam was an important factor in the USITC's definition ofcertain welded pipe as a single like product. The USITC exercised its discretionary judgement to
1316 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 149.
1317 None of the tariff classifications within the we lded pipe group included welded line pipe of an
outside diameter that does not exceed 406.7 millimeters (16 inches), which was covered by Section 201 relief on
line pipe.
1318 Joint Respondents' Prehearing Brief in Opposition to Import Relief for Welded Tubular Products
Other than OCTG (Category 20) (11 September 2001), p. 9.
1319 Joint Respondents' Prehearing Brief in Opposition to Import Relief for Welded Tubular Products
Other than OCTG (Category 20) (11 September, 2001), p. 9.
1320 Joint Respondents' Prehearing Brief in Opposition to Import Relief for Welded Tubular Products
Other than OCTG (Category 20) (11 September 2001), p. 10.
1321 Certain Welded Large Diameter Line Pipe from Japan, Inv. No. 731-TA-919 (Final), Publication
3464 (November 2001).
1322 Joint Respondents' Prehearing Brief in Opposition to Import Relief for Welded Tubular Products
Other than OCTG (Category 20) (11 September 2001), Exhibit CC – 78.
1323 Switzerland's first written submission, paras. 220-223.
1324 The two tariff classifications using the 4-digit level – 7305 and 7306 – for certain welded pipe are
also used for seamless pipe and thus do not provide a clear dividing line.
1325 Appellate Body Report, EC – Asbestos , para. 102.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 193
determine which factors were the most pertinent in ex amining the particular facts of this investigation.
The USITC clearly found the physical characteristics factor to be useful but, given the large numberof tariff classifications, found tariff classifications not to be useful because they provided no clear
dividing lines between products.
1326
7.465 Switzerland responds that the cumbersomeness of a methodology, however, cannot be used as
an argument for not applying it. If the United States chose to investigate on a very large number of
steel products, the fact that the investigation becomes very extensive because of the large number of
different products involved, is not a reason not to use a certain methodology. This is all the more so,
as the criterion of customs classification is not only used by the USITC but is a fundamental criterion
to be used according to the Appellate Body. The assertion that tariff classifications were not useful
because they provided no clear dividing lines between the products1327 is not correct as the customs
classification provides several dividing lines, for instance between products used for oil or gas
pipelines and other products. Such a customs classification supports the conclusion found using the
end-use criteria, i.e. that products used to convey oil or gas are different from other tubular products.the HS tariff classifications contained in Chapter 73 differentiates welded pipe at the four digit level
and even more at the six digit level.
1328 1329 It is clear therefore, that this product (welded pipe) is not
a single product but is further defined by size and/or use and thus the United States should have at
least followed the clear distinctive lines set by the HS.
7.466 The European Communities notes that United States failed to rebut the Swiss and Korean
argument that the primary basis for distinguishing the many different products bundled together
should have been tariff classifications by claiming that the ten-digit level contains too many different
entries.1330 As can be learned from Chapter 73 of the HS1331, internationally agreed customs
classifications at the four and six-digit level separate welded pipe on the basis both of size and
function.1332 This further corroborates that the products bundled as welded pipe are not "like or
directly competitive".1333
Production processes
7.467 Switzerland submits that the USITC used the ve rtical integration of the industry and the
common production processes to aggregate the five different products into one category. More
particularly, Switzerland contends that the USITC paid "particular attention" to the "sharing of
productive processes and facilities" which "is a fundamental concern in defining the scope of the
domestic industry under Section 201".1334 Moreover, the USITC considered itself to be required "to
define like or directly competitive in a manner that reflects the realities of the market and at the same
time accomplishes the fundamental purpose of Section 201, protection of the productive resources of
domestic producers".1335 Switzerland insists that the United States ignored the guidance given in US –
Lamb and, again, relied on "productive facilities" rather than on "the product" itself.1336 According to
Switzerland, it is simply irrelevant, under the Agreement on Safeguards, that there is a continuous line
1326 United States' first written submission, paras. 167-168.
1327 United States' first written submission, para. 168
1328 Exhibit CC-105 a
1329 Switzerland's second written submission, paras. 58-60.
1330 United States' first written submission, para. 167.
1331 Exhibit CC-105
1332 The European Communities refers to paras. 73.05-73.06.
1333 European Communities' second written submission, paras. 283-285.
1334 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp.30 and 151
1335 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 31
1336 Switzerland's second written submission, paras. 66-69.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 194
of production between the input product and the end-product … producers of these products, if it
cannot be established otherwise that these input products are like products.1337
7.468 Switzerland contends that the USITC explains that it traditionally establishes the "likeness"
on the basis of the five characteristics: physical properties of the product, its customs treatment, its
manufacturing process, its uses, and the marketing channels through which the product is sold.1338
However, for this specific case, the USITC used a different methodology, as it "focused [its] analysisin this investigation primarily on the degree to which the products in question are produced in
common production facilities and using similar production processes"
1339 1340 T h e U S I T C p a i d
"particular attention" to the "sharing of productive processes and facilities" which "is a fundamentalconcern in defining the scope of the domestic industry under Section 201".
1341 Moreover, the USITC
considered itself to be required "to define like or directly competitive in a manner that reflects the
realities of the market and at the same time accomplishes the fundamental purpose of Section 201,
protection of the productive resources of domestic producers".1342 Switzerland insists that the United
States ignored the guidance given in US – Lamb and, again, relied on "productive facilities" rather
than on "the product" itself.1343 Korea further argues that the United States has failed to acknowledge
that OCTG is also made by the same producers who make standard pipe1344, but it is no more "like"
standard pipe than line pipe is. The United States also does not explain how shared production
facilities was an important factor for treating LD LP as other welded but not for treating OCTG as a
single like product with all other welded pipe made in the same production facilities in its answers to
questions.1345 1346
7.469 In the United States' view, the complainants mistakenly challenge the USITC's consideration
of production processes in determining "like product" on the basis of the Appellate Body Report in
US – Lamb . Contrary to the complainants' contentions the Appellate Body in US – Lamb recognized
that when confronted with the question of whether two articles are separate products, "it may berelevant to inquire into the production processes for those products".
1347
7.470 The United States submits that the specific allegations raised by Korea and Switzerland
regarding the USITC's certain welded pipe like product definition are based on their erroneous
interpretation of what factors the USITC was either "required or not permitted" to consider in making
its like product definitions.1348 The complainants can identify nothing in the Agreement on
Safeguards addressing what factors may or may not be considered in determining like products. They
instead assert that the USITC was bound to use the four factors suggested by the Working Party onBorder Tax Adjustments. These factors, which were suggested for use in border tax adjustments, were
for a different purpose, and the Appellate Body has recognized that "[n]o one approach to exercising
1337 Switzerland's first written submission, para. 226-233.
1338 USITC Report Vol. I p. 30.
1339 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 151
1340 Switzerland's second written submission, paras. 54, 65.
1341 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 30 and 151
1342 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 31
1343 Switzerland's second written submission, paras. 66-69.
1344 Korea's written reply to the Panel question No.148 at the first substantive meeting, noting that five
to eight producers of "welded other" pipe also make welded-OCTG in contrast to only three of the sevenproducers of LDLP which manufacture "welded other;"; United States' replies to questions from other Parties,para. 47, referring to " many " producers of LDLP which also produce other welded.
1345 United States' replies to questions from other Parties, para. 44.
1346 Korea's second written submission, paras. 75-76.
1347 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb , para. 94, n.55.
1348 Switzerland's first written submission, paras. 207-233.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 195
judgement will be appropriate for all cases".1349 Thus, the USITC was not required to consider these
four factors.1350
7.471 Korea reiterates that welded OCTG is just like all other pipe in the other welded category has
a weld and is produced by the same producers. The United States does not deny this. This is very
significant because the USITC's principal and overriding considerations in treating LDLP as a single
like product with non-OCTG pipe is the common production facilities and the existence of a
"weld".1351 Thus, clearly, these characteristics do not create a "clear dividing line" between OCTG,
LDLP, or other welded pipe. Instead, the United States says that the USITC relied on the outside
"finishing operations" which are sometimes used af ter the OCTG has been produced to distinguish
OCTG. However, the USITC opinion is clear that the critical aspect of this distinction was the
physical attributes conferred by this additional processing and not the mere (separate) process
itself.1352 1353
Marketing channels
7.472 Switzerland stresses that this factor is used by the USITC, although it is not used in the
traditional WTO approach regarding like products. The USITC, however, seems not to apply this
factor, even if it recognizes that the channel of distribution for the various pipe and tube products
tends to be specialized depending on the market served. Some distributors specialize in certain forms
of pipe, other in certain products sold primarily to the construction industry for use in HVAC
(heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) and other piping systems that allow for the transmission ofwater, steam, oil, gas, and chemicals in commercial and residential structures, including high-rise
structures.
1354 In the case of welded pipe other than OCTG the USITC indicated that although large
pipe is more likely than small diameter pipe to be sold directly to end-users, there is substantial
overlap in the channels of distribution of all welded pipe. The USITC said in its report that specialty
tubes that require more heat-treatment or testing are often sold directly to end-users.1355 I f t h e
marketing channels were to be part of the method ology used to determine likeness, in this case the
proper application of this criterion would have suppo rted what has been shown thus far, namely that
many different products were unduly bundled and therefore no proper analysis of likeness could take
place.1356
Other factors
7.473 Korea also argues that the USITC's aggregation of large diameter line pipe and standard pipe
is in direct conflict with its findings that OCTG should be a separate like product from the rest of thetubular category. The USITC specifically cited as one of the bases for its determination that OCTG is
a separate like product from other pipe and tube the fact that "OCTG products and other pipe and tube
products are sold into different markets and demand is driven by different economic factors ".
1357 In
particular, the USITC explained, "[d]emand for OCTG products is driven primarily by the level of oil
1349 Appellate Body Report, EC – Asbestos , para. 101.
1350 United States' first written submission, para. 159.
1351 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 154-155.
1352 It is also worth noting that the distinction the United States makes between "production facilities"
and the "finishing operations" is a false distinction. The OCTG is produced before it goes to the finishingoperations. USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 148.
1353 Korea's second written submission, paras. 82-83.
1354 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 150.
1355 USITC Report, Vol. II, TUBULAR-39
1356 Switzerland's second written submission, para. 64.
1357 USITC Report, Vol. I , p. 154 (emphasis added).WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 196
and gas exploration, while demand for other products is driven primarily by the overall level of
activity in the general economy, which do not necessarily coincide and can, in fact, move inopposition to one another".
1358 As demand for LDLP is similarly driven by activity in the oil and gas
sector, and not by the level of activity in the general economy, it too should have been treated as a
separate like product in the USITC's analysis of injury and remedy. At the very least, the differences
in applications and demand factors between LDLP and other welded pipe should have been
considered by the USITC in determining whether LDLP should have been segregated from the other
carbon tubular products.1359
(iii) Definitions proposed by the complainants
7.474 The United States points out that both Korea and Switzerland challenge the USITC definition
of certain welded pipe as a single like product, but that each complainant has different proposals for
what the appropriate definitions should have been. Korea contends this single like product should
have been divided into at least two like products, primarily by diameter size, and Switzerland
contends it should have been divided into at least three like products, primarily by function.1360
7.475 Switzerland responds that it argued that the precision tubes were incorrectly grouped in the
same category of products as large diameter welded pipe for the conveyance of steam, water, oil, gas
and other fluids. In making this argument, Sw itzerland did not at all propose that the category of
welded pipe/tubular products be subdivided into three categories. Switzerland mentioned the three
different tubes as examples, in order to explain the differences of the products bundled together in thecategory of welded tubular products and to show that the United States grouped together products
which are so different that they should not have been grouped together. Switzerland is of the view
that it is not its task to propose what the proper category should be and that the Panel need not decide
which breakdown of categories presented in the complainants' submissions is most appropriate.
1361
7.476 Korea insists that it is not arguing for a like product division for welded pipe based on
diameter size, as the United States incorrectly asserts.1362 This is a convenient but inaccurate
characterization of Korea's like product argument for welded pipe. Korea maintains that LDLP
should have been considered a separate like product from other welded pipe. The basis for that like
product distinction is not the size of the pipe but rather the distinct physical characteristics and the
distinct end-uses of the two products.1363
(iv) Relevance of like product definitions used in the anti-dumping and countervailing duty
contexts
7.477 The United States submits that the complainants' arguments1364 fail to recognize that the like
product definitions in anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations, as in safeguard
investigations, are dependent on the imports subject to that particular investigation and thus the
definitions have varied.1365 The starting point for the USITC's like product analysis is the imports
identified as within the investigation by the Presid ent's request. In the present case, the USITC began
with the subject imports which included a range of welded and tube and looked for clear dividing
1358 USITC Report, Vol. I , p. 154 (Exhibit CC-6).
1359 Korea's first written submission, paras. 69-70.
1360 United States' first written submission, para. 158.
1361 Switzerland's second written submission, paras. 46-47.
1362 United States' first written submission, para. 104.
1363 Korea's second written submission, para. 69.
1364 See paras. 7.448 and 7.463 above.
1365 Korea first written submission, paras. 41-44.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 197
lines between the domestic steel pipe and tube products that corresponded to these subject imports,
using well-established factors. The anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations generallybegin with a more narrow starting point for the scope of subject imports so the analysis frequently
involves whether the like product definition should be defined more broadly than the subject imports,
i.e., it starts small and looks at whether to broaden rather than starts large and looks where to divide.
The complainants also fail to acknowledge, as discussed above, that the anti-dumping and
countervailing duty investigations have a purpose that is different from that in a safeguards
investigation.
1366 The USITC considered and rejected the argument that should have defined at least
two like products – certain welded large diameter pi pe (16 inches or over) ("LDLP") and other welded
pipe in making its like product definition in this safeguard investigation. The USITC did not have
before it in either of these anti-dumping investiga tions the issue of a scope of subject imports that
included both of these types of certain welded pipe as it did in this safeguard investigation and thus
did not decide to treat them as separate domestic like products in a single investigation. Rather the
USITC defined separate domestic like products in two separate investigations; each like productdefinition was coextensive with the narrow scope of imports subject to investigation.
1367 The USITC
did not consider whether it was appropriate to broaden the like product to include other types of
certain welded pipe that did not correspond to the subject imports in either of these anti-dumping
cases. In this investigation, the USITC considered arguments that it should find that large diameter
line pipe (pipe 16 inches or over in outside diameter) was a separate like product from other weldedpipe.
1368 The evidence showed that while welded large diameter line pipe generally is made on mills
designed to make large pipe, these mills also are capable of producing other types of large diameter
pipe, such as pipe for water transmission, piling, and structural members.1369 A substantial portion of
welded large diameter line pipe is made by the ERW process1370, which is the process used to make
virtually all types of certain welded pipes.1371 Moreover, many of the firms that produce welded large
diameter line pipe also produce other welded pipe that is less than 16 inches in outside diameter.
Large and small diameter welded pipe also share common physical characteristics, particularly a weld
seam that has an effect on its uses relative to other tubular products such as seamless pipe. Based on
this evidence, the USITC found large and small welded pipe to be part of a continuum of certain
1366 United States' first written submission, paras. 161-162
1367 Contrary to Korea's allegations, the "ITC did not treat LDLP as a like product with standard pipe"
in Certain Welded Non-Alloy Steel Pipe from China because it was not part of the scope of investigation in that
anti-dumping case; the issue of whether to include LDLP in the domestic like product also was not raised by anyparties to that investigation nor was it considered by the USITC. Circular Welded Non-Alloy Steel Pipe from
China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Romania, and South Africa , Investigation Nos. 731-TA-943-947 (Preliminary),
USITC Publication 3439, pp. 3-5 (July 2001) (US-28); Circular Welded Non-Alloy Steel Pipe from China ,
Investigation No. 731-TA-943 (Final), USITC Publication 3523, pp. 3-5 (July 2002) (CC-80); see also Certain
Welded Large Diameter Line Pipe From Japan and Mexico , Inv. Nos. 731-TA-919-920 (Preliminary), USITC
Publication 3400, pp. I-5-6 (March 2001) (US-29); Certain Welded Large Diameter Line Pipe From Japan , Inv.
No. 731-TA-919 (Final), USITC Publication 3464 (November 2001) (CC-81).
1368 Prehearing Brief of European Steel Tube Association (September 12, 2001), pp. 3-6 (US-30).
1369 USITC Report, p. 154, citing Certain Welded Large Diameter Line Pipe From Japan and Mexico ,
USITC Publication 3400, pp. I-5-6 (March 2001) (US-29).
1370 In 2000, 45.6% of domestic welded large diameter line pipe was produced by the ERW process as
compared to 54.4% by the SAW process. Certain Welded Large Diameter Line Pipe From Japan and Mexico ,
USITC Publication 3400, Table 1-2, p. I-14 (March 2001) (US-29). ERW pipe is normally produced in sizes
from 2 3/8 inches through 24 inches outside diameter. Id. at I-5.
1371 Certain Pipe and Tube from Argentina, Brazil, Canada, India, Korea, Mexico, Singapore, Taiwan,
Thailand, Turkey, and Venezuela , Invs. Nos. 701-TA-253 (Review) and 731-TA-132, 252, 271, 273, 276, 277,
296, 409, 410, 532-534, 536, and 537 (Review), USITC Publication 3316, p. CIRC-I-19 (July 2000) (US-31).WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 198
welded pipe and saw no reason to define large diamet er line pipe separately from other certain welded
pipe.1372
(d) FFTJ
7.478 In the view of the European Communities, the USITC did not show that imported flanges are
like domestically produced fittings, although the USITC explicitly recognized the heterogeneity of
fittings, flanges and tool joints, and that this "category contains a mix of products ".1373
7.479 The United States submits that neither the European Communities nor any other complainant
provides further arguments to the Panel on this like product definition.1374
7.480 The European Communities further submits that the USITC has not done what is its essential
obligation under WTO law and its own self-set task: to compare the domestic products with the
imported products and to determine whether these are like in accordance with Articles 2.1 and 4.1(c)
of the Agreement on Safeguards. Instead, the USIT C only attempts to explain why it groups together
different domestic products into a bundle that "consists of about one-third flanges, one-third butt-weld
pipe fittings, and one-third other products".1375 However, it does not establish that all the elements it
bundles together are like the imported products. Even in its irrelevant attempt to justify the bundling
of a heterogeneous group of domestic products, the USITC misapplied its own self-set criteria. First,
the USITC did not even consider tariff classifications and concessions . However, fittings and flanges
are subject to different customs treatment even at the six-digit level and subject to different
concessions. Second, the different classifications reflect well-known different physical properties offittings and flanges, which were equally not mentioned by the USITC. As illustrated by the two
photos attached as Exhibit CC-104, fittings are made from pipes by cutting and forming them.
1376
They do not contain holes as flanges do. These holes are necessary to disassemble flanges. This
directly leads to the third point, the different uses of both products. The USITC essentially relied on
some "common use" argument by claiming that "fittings, flanges, and tool joints are all used to join orcap pipe". However, this broad statement fails to take account of different end-uses of fittings and
flanges. The USITC itself acknowledged that flanges are used to join pipe in non-permanent
connections, and are designed to facilitate the disassembly of lengths of pipe.
1377 Butt-weld-pipe
fittings, by contrast, are used to create a permanent joint.1378 Because of their different technical
properties (flanges contain holes and fittings do not), fittings and flanges are not even substitutable.
Finally, if the USITC was entitled to look at common production processes ( quod non ), even the
production processes for flanges and fittings only confirm the distinctions between these products.The USITC itself had to acknowledge that flanges are produced by forging carbon steel billets.
Fittings, by contrast are made from pipes by cutting and forming them.
1379 The USITC's assertion that
these processes are similar because they typically in corporate "heat-treating, machining, beveling, and
washing"1380 raises the question why it then has not included also knives and forks in its product
mix.1381
1372 United States' first written submission, paras. 163-166.
1373 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 175 and 179.
1374 United States' first written submission, para. 114, footnote 139.
1375 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 156 and 157.
1376 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 148.
1377 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 150.
1378 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 150.
1379 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 148.
1380 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 157.
1381 European Communities' written reply to Panel question No. 146 at the first substantive meeting.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 199
7.481 The European Communities submits that the United States does not attempt to rebut the
European Communities' specific claims that the bundling of FFTJ was not justified.1382 The USITC's
determination is the conclusion made before the reasoning (and unsupported by the subsequent
reasoning) that "there are four domestic industries producing articles like the corresponding articles
subject to investigation within the tubular products category … (fittings, flanges, and tool joints)".1383
The second reference provided by the USITC then directly contradicts this statement by stating that
"purchasers of fittings and flanges reported that imported and domestically produced fittings and
flanges produced to the same grade and specification are used in the same applications"1384, thereby
confirming the acknowledgement given by the USITC elsewhere that this is a heterogeneous productmix.
1385 The United States also concedes that there are even separate markets for fitting and
flanges.1386 1387
7.482 The European Communities notes that the United States did not respond to the specific claim
that the products bundled as "FFTJ" were not even "like" each other. Thus, all determinations based
on such imported product "FFTJ" and the domesti c industry producing "FFTJ" should be found
incompatible with the Agreement on Safeguards.1388
F. INCREASED IMPORTS
1. Introduction
7.483 Brazil and Japan argue that the United States failed to meet the threshold requirement of
increased imports under Articles 2.1 and 4.2(a) of the Agreement on Safeguards and Article XIX(a) ofthe GATT 1994.
1389 Similarly, China and Switzerland believe that the condition of increased imports
was not fulfilled.1390 Korea affirms that the USITC's analysis of increased imports for flat-rolled and
tin mill products was not consistent with Articles 2, 3 and 4 of the Agreement on Safeguards as well
as Article XIX of the GATT 1994.1391 New Zealand claims that the United States has failed to
comply with the requirement of Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards that there be an increasein imports before a safeguard measure is imposed.
1392
7.484 The European Communities submits that the United States has not demonstrated that the steel
products covered by its safeguard measures are "being imported … in such increased quantities" as
required by Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards. The USITC applied a methodology that
plainly ignores the conditions set by Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards, as clarified by the
Appellate Body. The USITC has committed essentially three methodological errors rendering all its
conclusions on the existence of increased imports for each individual product flawed and inconsistent
1382 United States' first written submission, para. 114, which does not respond to the specific claims in
the European Communities' first written submission, paras. 218, 230 and European Communities' reply to Panelquestion 146.
1383 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 147.
1384 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 175.
1385 See references in European Communities' first writtensubmission, paras. 218 and 230.
1386 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 149 at the first substantive meeting.
1387 European Communities' second written submission, para. 286.
1388 European Communities' second written submission, para. 286; European Communities' written
reply to Panel question 22 at the second substantive meeting.
1389 Brazil's first written submission, para. 117; Japan's first written submission, para. 175.
1390 China's first written submission, para. 210; Switzerland's first written submission, para. 244;
Norway's first written submission, para. 250; Norway's second written submission, para. 81.
1391 Korea's first written submission, para. 71.
1392 New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.93.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 200
with Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards. Th us, it (i) fails to cons ider intervening downward
trends, in particular at the sensitive end-point of the investigation as reflected in the most recent dataavailable for 2001, (ii) it generally fails to calculate and consider the trends in imports over the entire
period of investigation, and (iii) it only aims at finding a "simple increase" without considering and
establishing through a reasoned and adequate explanation that such increase was sufficiently recent,
sudden, sharp and significant. The European Communities therefore considers that the United States
has not demonstrated that the steel products covered by its safeguard measures are "being imported …
in such increased quantities … as to cause or threaten to cause serious injury" to its domestic industry,
as required by Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards.
1393
7.485 In Japan's view, perhaps the most glaring deficiency of the United States' safeguard measures
is that they were imposed even though steel import volumes were declining. Imports of all subject
flat-rolled steel products (whether aggregated or separated, and including tin mill products) have
declined since 1998 or 1999, depending on the product, both absolutely and as a percentage of
domestic production. These declines are even more pronounced for steel imports from countriesactually subject to the safeguard measures. Because the Government of the United States did not
demonstrate a "recent", "sudden", "sharp", and "s ignificant" increase in import volume for these
products, its steel safeguard measures on flat-rolled products – grouped or separated – are inconsistent
with Articles 2.1 and 4.2(a) of the Agreement on Safeguards and Article XIX:1:1(a) of the GATT
1994. The same is true for other products subject to the relief.
1394
7.486 In response, the United States asserts that the requirement of "increased imports" of the
Agreement on Safeguards was satisfied.
2. The Legal Standard
(a) Recent increase
7.487 The European Communities submits that a safeguard measure may only be taken if there is an
extraordinary surge in imports ("such increased quantities and under such conditions"). Moreover, a
safeguard measure may only be taken if that product continues "being imported" in such increased
quantities.1395
7.488 The European Communities, Japan, Korea, Switzerland and Norway emphasize that, as the
Appellate Body has clarified in Argentina – Footwear (EC)1396, the use of the present tense "is being
imported" in Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards means that competent authorities must show
a sharp and significant increase in imports which continues until the very recent past.1397 I n
interpreting this requirement, WTO panels have focused on the last one to three years.1398 Norway
and Switzerland add that allowing a WTO Member to take a decision on whether to adopt safeguards
measures by ignoring available data from the most recent past would disregard the extraordinary
nature of safeguard measures, which must be taken into account when "construing the prerequisites
1393 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 282-290; European Communities' second
written submission, paras. 142-147.
1394 Japan's first written submission, para. 176.
1395 European Communities' first written submission, para. 143.
1396 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 130.
1397 European Communities' first written submission, para. 271; Japan's first written submission, paras.
184-185; Korea's first written submission, para. 71; Norway's first written submission, para. 256; Norway's
second written submission, para. 87; Switzerland's first written submission, para. 238.
1398 Panel Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , paras. 8.160 and 8.162; Panel Report, US – Wheat
Gluten , paras. 8.32 and 8.33; Panel Report, US – Line Pipe , para. 7.204.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 201
for such actions".1399 Similarly, Brazil and Japan argue that the present tense in Article 2.1 of the
Agreement on Safeguards – "such product is being imported " (emphasis added) – indicates that the
increase in import volume must be in the present, th at is to say, as of the time of the safeguards
investigation, and not in the past.1400
7.489 The United States argues that the Agreement on Safeguards does not specify how long the
period of investigation in a safeguards investigation should be, or whether or how that period should
be segmented for purposes of analysis.1401
7.490 As regards the question of how "recent" the increase in imports must be, the United States
argues that the Appellate Body's statement that the investigation period must be the recent past mustbe read in the light of other findings. The Appellate Body Report in US – Lamb made clear that, in
conducting their evaluation under Article 4.2(a), competent authorities cannot rely exclusively on data
from the most recent past, but must assess that data in the context of the data for the entire
investigative period.
1402 US – Lamb involved a determination of threat of serious injury, which by
definition is future oriented, and 21 months as the length of the investigation period was deemed tooshort. Presumably, therefore, the Appellate Body would accept a considerably longer period of
investigation for a serious injury determination. Th e United States submits that the complainants also
attempt to downplay the panel report in US – Line Pipe
1403, which states that it is not necessary to find
that imports are still increasing in the period immediately preceding the competent authority's
determination, or up to the very end of the period of investigation.1404 If the Agreement on Safeguards
prevented the application of a safeguard measure any time that imports abated, however slightly, after
an increase, Members would have to commence safe guard proceedings immediately after detecting an
increase in imports. This likelihood would create a major disincentive against waiting to see whether
the domestic industry could cope on its own.1405
7.491 In response, China submits that the United States is trying to create confusion between the
requirement, on the one hand, to give specific attention to the most recent imports and, on the other
hand, the requirement to consider trends in imports rather than making an end-point comparison.1406
Japan, Korea, China, New Zealand and Brazil contend that reliance on US – Lamb is misplaced. In
that case, the Appellate Body was not examining increased imports, but the appropriate period for
assessing the state of the domestic industry with regard to threat of serious injury.1407 1408
7.492 The United States responds that the complainants draw an artificial distinction. Import data
are part of the overall data to be assessed by competent authorities. If the question of the temporalfocus of data evaluation did not encompass import data, the Appellate Body would not have referred
in the US – Lamb Report to its discussion of increased imports in Argentina – Footwear (EC) .
1409 1410
1399 Norway's first written submission, para. 256; Switzerland's first written submission, para. 246.
1400 Brazil's first written submission, para. 121; Japan's first written submission, para. 180.
1401 United States' first written submission, para. 174.
1402 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb , para. 137.
1403 Panel Report, US – Line Pipe , para. 7.207.
1404 United States' first written submission, paras. 182-190.
1405 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 40 at the first substantive meeting, para. 82.
1406 China's second written submission, para 92.
1407 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb, paras. 137-138.
1408 Japan's second written submission, para. 84; Korea's first written submission, para. 96; China's
second written submission, para. 96; New Zealand's second written submission, para. 3.63; EuropeanCommunities' first written submission, para. 172.
1409 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb , para. 138, footnote 88.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 202
7.493 The European Communities, Japan, Korea, Norway, New Zealand and Brazil further argue
that in US – Line Pipe, the Panel was confronted with a slight and brief decrease in the absolute level
of imports at the very end of the investigation period, imports which remained at high levels and
continued to increase in relative terms.1411 1412 Thus, US – Line Pipe does not in anyway diminish the
Appellate Body's interpretation of the timing of the increased imports – i.e., that they must be recent.
Rather, US – Line Pipe stands for the proposition that a modest and short decline in imports at the end
of the period of investigation, that started in the last half year of the five and a half year period, does
not exclude a finding that imports "remain" at "such increased quantities" if such finding is based on
an explicit analysis of intervening decreasing trends and supported by a reasoned and adequateexplanation.
1413 This does not mean, as the United States implies, that any increase in imports at any
time during the period of investigation, no matter how remote in time and even if followed by a
significant and continuing decline, satisfies the requirement of increased imports.1414 The increase in
imports was fully 30 months in the past by the time the United States initiated its safeguard
investigation, hardly what one would term "immediately after detecting an increase in imports".1415
(b) Evaluation of trends
7.494 The European Communities, Japan, Korea and China further point out that the Appellate
Body has also made clear that there is an obligation to evaluate trends in imports over the entire
period of investigation, rather than simply comparing end-points. Where imports have declined
"continuously and significantly", a product is no longer "being imported in such increased quantities"and the purpose of the safeguard remedy to address an urgent situation is not met.
1416 1417 Norway and
Switzerland submit in summary that an increase in imports should be evident both in an "end-point-
to-end-point comparison and in an analysis of the intervening trends over the period".1418 1419
7.495 According to the United States, the complainants also misconstrue the Appellate Body finding
in Argentina – Footwear (EC) regarding trends in imports over the period of investigation. The
Appellate Body addressed trends in order to s how that consideration of end points alone was
insufficient, and that an examination of intervening points must be made. The Appellate Body did not
state that a comparison of the end points of a period of investigation is entirely irrelevant or
impermissible. The United States also notes that Article 4.2(a) of the Agreement on Safeguards
requires an evaluation of "the rate and amount of the increase in imports," and thus trends do not
trump the amount of imports. The Appellate Body also did not state that trends must show a constant
increase in imports or an increase that lasts for the entire period of investigation.1420
1410 United States' second written submission, para. 104.
1411 Panel Report, US – Line Pipe , paras. 7.210 and 7.213.
1412 Norway's first written submission, para. 245; Norway's second written submission, para. 88.
1413 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 175-180; Korea's first written submission,
para. 104; New Zealand's second written submission, para. 3.64.
1414 Japan's second written submission, para. 85; Brazil's second written submission, paras. 48-50.
1415 Brazil's second written submission, para. 60.
1416 Panel Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 8.162, confirmed in Appellate Body Report,
Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para 129.
1417 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 272-274; Japan's first written submission,
para. 186; Korea's first written submission, para. 72; China's first written submission, paras. 88-89.
1418 Panel Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 8.157.
1419 Norway's first written submission, para. 246; Norway's second written submission, para. 89;
Switzerland's first written submission, para. 239.
1420 United States' first written submission, para. 178-180.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 203
7.496 Japan responds that there must be some examination of the relative trends in imports over the
period of investigation in terms of their nature, extent, and magnitude vis-à-vis the recent imports. Itis similar to the point the Appellate Body made in US – Lamb regarding serious injury – that the real
significance of short term trends at one point in a period of investigation "may only emerge when
these short term trends are assessed in the light of the longer-term trends in the data for the whole
period of investigation".
1421 Japan and New Zealand submit that the point is to consider trends in
context, in comparison with longer-term trends. Undertaking such an analysis is separate from the
issue of causation, which concerns the "effect" of the increase.1422
7.497 With regard to the relative importance of trends and of recent imports, the European
Communities argues that the most recent imports are part of an overall trend. However, as clarified
by the Appellate Body, the most recent import trends should be the focus of safeguard determinations
on the increased imports requirement contained in Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards.
Overall trends over a longer period of time are particularly important to determine whether the first
prong of the increased imports analysis, i.e., "such increased quantities", is met. GATT and WTOjurisprudence require an "abnormal development in the imports of the product in question"
1423, or as
the Appellate Body has put it an "unforeseen" or "unexpected" or "sudden, sharp and significant"
increase in imports.1424 As argued by the European Communities, to establish this, the competent
authorities are obliged to: (i) identify the rate and amount of imports over a longer period; and (ii) to
compare the recent developments to previous import developments and to show that an abnormalincrease took place. The USITC failed to consider these essential issues, but contended itself with
"any increase" in imports. The European Communities submits that this has already been explicitly
ruled out by the Appellate Body in Argentina – Footwear (EC) .
1425 Recent imports are decisive to
establish that a product continues "being imported" in such increased quantities. The Panel's report in
US – Line Pipe did not contradict the unambiguous obligation clarified by the Appellate Body to
consider any intervening trend and in particular th e sensitive end points of an investigation. The
USITC did not even do what was required by the Panel in US – Line Pipe , that is, to establish for all
products through a reasoned and adequate explanation imports that have at least remained at recently,
sharply and suddenly increased levels. Instead, the United States invoked a passage of the Panel's
report in Argentina – Footwear (EC) , allegedly rejecting the argument of the European Communities
that only a "sharply increasing trend in imports at the end of the investigation can satisfy this
requirement" and adding that there might be a "temporary downturn", which would nevertheless notinvalidate a finding of increased imports.
1426 According to the European Communities, the first
reference is irrelevant, because the United States has (far from establishing that imports continue
increasing in the interim 2001 period) not even demonstrated that imports remained at sharply
increased levels although the most recent interim 2001 data confirmed a steady and significant
decline. Even if temporary and insignificant declines do not necessarily exclude a finding that aproduct is being imported at increased levels, the ex istence of more than a half-year downward trend
requires an explanation why such trend is only considered temporary and insignificant. The USITC
did not do so for any of the products. This is particularly glaring, since for many of those products
1421 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb , para. 138.
1422 Japan's second written submission, para. 91; New Zealand's second written submission,
paras. 3.61-3.62.
1423 US – Fur Felt Hats , para. 4.
1424 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 131.
1425 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 131.
1426 United States' second oral statement, para. 37, referring to Panel Report, Argentina – Footwear
(EC) , para. 8.165.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 204
countervailing duty and anti-dumping orders were in place, therefore making such trends
predictable.1427 1428
7.498 Japan submits that there are both a temporal element and a comparative element embodied in
the "increased imports" requirement. As interpreted by the Appellate Body in Argentina – Footwear
(EC) , the temporal element requires that increased imports must be "sudden and recent".1429 T h e
comparative element requires a comparison: "between recent import trends … and import trends over
the entire period of investigation". 1430 This is why the Appellate Body emphasized that an authority
must examine recent imports and imports over the entire period of investigation.1431 China submits
that, on the one hand, only the consideration of trends allows determinations as to whether theevolution of imports meets the requirements of Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards and
Article XIX of GATT 1994. In this regard, the requirement to consider trends is of a methodological
nature. On the other hand, among the different trends, specific attention should be granted to the most
recent ones in order to determine whether they showed an increase in imports that was recent. In this
regard, the requirement to consider recent imports is rather of a qualitative nature.
1432 Norway asserts
that the trend confirming that there actually is a recent, sudden, sharp and significant increase in
imports, of the magnitude required by the Agreement on Safeguards, must continue until the very
recent past. When the trend in the recent past is a decrease in imports, the condition for imposing a
safeguard measure no longer exists. As such, the importance of a confirming trend in the very recent
past has a very high importance.1433 New Zealand submits that both trends and recent imports have
been recognized as important in Argentina – Footwear (EC) , which also confirmed that a simple
comparison of end-points will not suffice.1434 In the present case, the requirement of a "recent"
increase in imports was not satisfied because in the most recent period (interim 2001), imports
actually decreased by 40%. Moreover, this was simply an acceleration of the downward trend in
imports since 1998.1435
7.499 Korea argues that the primary focus must be recent imports. The Appellate Body in
Argentina – Footwear (EC) stated in its report that "it is necessary for the competent authorities to
examine recent imports, and not simply trends in imports".1436 It further stated that "the investigation
period should be the recent past".1437 Trends are relevant to the relationship between increased
imports, on the one hand, and causation on the other, in accordance with Article 4.2 of the Agreement
on Safeguards. The United States refers to the Panel in Argentina – Footwear (EC) as authority for
the proposition that the Panel rejected the EC's argument that imports had to be "sharply increasing"at the end of the period. However, the United States is referring to the Panel analysis of increased
imports in Argentina – Footwear (EC) where the Appellate Body specifically commented that "the
Panel's interpretation of [the increased imports] requirement [is] somewhat lacking".
1438 1439
1427 USITC Report, Vol. II, Table OVERVIEW-3.
1428 European Communities' written reply to Panel question No. 14 at the second substantive meeting.
1429 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 130.
1430 Japan's second written submission, para. 82.
1431 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 130.
1432 China's written reply to Panel question No.14 at the second substantive meeting.
1433 Norway's written reply to Panel question No.14 at the second substantive meeting.
1434 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC), para. 129.
1435 New Zealand's written reply to Panel question No.14 at the second substantive meeting.
1436 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 130.
1437 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , footnote 130.
1438 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 130.
1439 Korea's written reply to Panel question No. 14 at the second substantive meeting.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 205
7.500 Korea also notes that the United States relies heavily on the analysis of the increased imports
requirement in the Panel report in US – Line Pipe .1440 Korea fundamentally disagrees with the
analysis of the Panel in that case. Korea submits that it is important to recall that the Panel in US –
Line Pipe interprets a fundamental modification of the Appellate Body's holding in Argentina –
Footwear (EC) . The Panel in that case concluded that the Appellate Body's reliance on the phrase "is
being imported" had to be considered in light of the rest of the sentence, which referred to "increased"
(as opposed to "increasing") imports ( i.e., "in such increased quantities"). To the Panel, this
"supported" an interpretation that imports could have increased in the recent past rather than the
"present" as long as they remained at high levels. First, Korea does not agree that the phrase "is beingimported" can mean anything other than that the increase must be present. After all, the Appellate
Body specifically found that "it is necessary for th e competent authorities to examine recent imports,
and not simply trends ... during any ... period of several years". (emphasis added) The Appellate
Body holding that the increase also had to be sudden, sharp, and significant bolsters this interpretation
since those terms conform to the emergency nature of safeguards. Nor does Korea read the use of theadjective "increased", which clearly modifies "imports" and denotes a greater quantity, as somehow
modifying the present tense of "is being imported". Finally, such a reading does not clarify what the
adjective "increased" refers to (relative to what time period?) as opposed to the Appellate Body ruling
that makes clear that the increase must be recent ( i.e., the "present tense") and not in the past. It is
also significant that in US – Line Pipe , the Panel states that the temporary nature of the decrease was a
factor in its analysis of the imports in that case since "a temporary change in the behaviour of the
imports may not be sufficient to reverse an overall trend".
1441 In the present case of flat-rolled,
however, there was solid evidence that these declines in imports were not temporary because they
were directly the result of the anti-dumping and countervailing duties margins at high levels on hot-
rolled.1442 In fact, the six-month decline in imports in the interim period for line pipe contrasts with
the two and one-half-year decline in flat-rolled impor ts in the present case. One final comment on the
panel in US – Line Pipe. That Panel cited to the Appellate Body in US – Lamb as authority.
However, the Appellate Body was addressing a separate question in that case of relative importance
of domestic industry threat data over the period. The Appellate Body properly concluded in that case
that, given the extraordinary nature of safeguard relief, the United States had to consider data during
any time in the period that called into question whether the data actually demonstrated a threat of
serious injury.1443 Korea submits that this finding is not at all inconsistent with the Appellate Body
holding in Argentina – Footwear (EC) that the condition of "increased imports" must be "present".
Korea argues that the United States' tactic is to try to diminish the significance of Argentina –
Footwear (EC) , but that decision is consistent with each and every subsequent decision by the
Appellate Body concerning the Agreement on Safeguards, including US – Lamb . In every case, the
Appellate Body has interpreted strictly the provision of the Agreement on Safeguards in light of theextraordinary nature of these actions. It is fundamental that increased imports must exist and must be
present, or emergency action is no longer justified.
1444 1445
7.501 Finally, regarding trends and recent imports, in Korea's view, the United States implies that,
for the complainants, the existence of an inde pendent increased imports requirement excludes
consideration of the relationship between increased imports and causation and serious injury. Koreasubmits that, in fact, it does not and the complainants have not made such a claim. The Agreement on
Safeguards requires both a separate quantitative and qualitative analysis of increased imports and, if
1440 United States' second written submission, para. 92.
1441 Panel Report, US – Line Pipe , footnote 182 (in para. 7.210).
1442 Korea's first written submission, paras. 81, 89-93; Korea's second written submission, para. 120.
1443 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb , paras. 136-138.
1444 Korea's written reply to Panel question No. 14 at the second substantive meeting.
1445 Korea's written reply to Panel question No. 14 at the second substantive meeting.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 206
imports have increased, an analysis of the relationship between increased imports and causation and
serious injury. The United States asserts that it is not possible or reasonable to analyse increased
imports separate and apart from causation.1446 Korea argues that that is contradicted by the language
of Article 2.1 and by the Appellate Body precedents: In fact an analysis of "recent", "sudden", and
"significant enough" explain the context, extent, and nature of the increase. In Argentina – Footwear
(EC), the Appellate Body found no increased imports and questioned why the panel had bothered to
analyse causation.1447
7.502 Brazil would not categorically state that trends are more important than recent imports in an
analysis of increased imports or vice-versa. Brazil submits that trends are obviously importantbecause Article 2.1 specifies that imports must be increasing in order to impose safeguard measures
and whether or not imports are increasing depends on the trend in imports. Trends are also important
because they provide context for determining whether the increase in imports is sudden, sharp and
significant. It is difficult, for example, to see how a uniform and gradual increase in imports over a
66-month investigative period could be sudden or sharp, although it might be significant. Thus, theincrease must be viewed in the context of trends over the period of investigation. At the same time,
recent imports are necessarily important in light of the fact that Article 2.1 refers to increased imports
in the present tense – "is being imported". Recent imports, of course, must also be looked at in the
broader context. Thus, in US – Line Pipe a brief decline in the absolute level of imports at the end of
the period of investigation was not important in the broader context because imports remained at highlevels and, even in the most recent period, continued to increase relative to domestic production.
1448
The importance of the most recent period would also seem to depend on how long that period is(three months, six months, one year) and whether it continued a trend or reversed a trend and, if so,
how decisively. In other words, how important th e most recent period is may depend on the particular
facts of the period in question and the context.
1449
7.503 The United States submits that the complainants' insistence on the importance of recent data,
to the point of excluding trend analysis, is mispl aced and overlooks a significant amount of Appellate
Body and panel analysis indicating that both trends and recent imports must be considered.
According to the United States, in Argentina – Footwear (EC) , the Appellate Body found that "it is
necessary for the competent authorities to examine recent imports, and not simply trends in imports
during the last five years".1450 In US – Lamb , the Appellate Body cited the language from Argentina –
Footwear (EC) but then found that, "although data from the most recent past has special importance,
competent authorities should not consider such data in isolation from the data pertaining to the entire
period of investigation ... . [I]n conducting their evaluation under Article 4.2(a), competent authorities
cannot rely exclusively on data from the most recent past, but must assess that data in the context of
the data for the entire investigative period".1451 Finally, the Panel in US – Line Pipe found that "the
same considerations apply when it comes to which part of the period of investigation is the mostrelevant in a determination of increased imports".
1452 Both Appellate Body and panel reports endorse
the idea that a competent authority must consider both trends throughout the period of investigation
and recent imports. The panel in US – Line Pipe went on to reject Korea's claim that the USITC's
finding of increased imports was inconsistent with Article 2.1.1453 The USITC applied precisely the
1446 United States' second oral statement, para. 38.
1447 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 145.
1448 Brazil's first written submission, paras. 49-50.
1449 Brazil's written reply to Panel question No.14 at the second substantive meeting.
1450 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 130.
1451 Appellate Body Report, US – Lamb , para. 138.
1452 Panel Report, US – Line Pipe , para. 7.208.
1453 Panel Report, US – Line Pipe , para. 7.214.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 207
same analysis in its steel determinations as in its line pipe determination, namely, considering both
trends and recent imports in its analysis.1454 1455
(c) Rate and amount of the increase
7.504 Brazil and Japan claim that the competent authorities are required, under Article 4.2(a), to
evaluate "the rate and amount of the increase in imports in absolute and relative terms". In order to be
meaningful, this provision by necessity requires that imports have a positive rate of increase – that is,
an acceleration.1456 If the rate at which imports have increased has declined, either absolutely or
relatively, there cannot possibly be serious injury as envisioned by Article 4.2(a).1457
7.505 The United States objects to Japan's and Brazil's assertion that imports must be increasing at
an accelerating pace.1458 The dictionary definition of "rate" adduced by Japan as "speed of movement,
change, etc.; rapidity with which something takes place" does not necessarily require an acceleration
in the amount by which imports increase.1459 The "rate" of an increase in imports can be stated by
observing that imports increased by a certain percentage from one year to the next.1460 The United
States submits that, more importantly, Article 4.2(a) does not require an accelerating rate ofincrease.
1461
(d) "Sharp" and "significant" increase
7.506 The European Communities argues that in addition to the above qualitative requirements for
"increased imports", the Appellate Body has made clear that there is a quantitative criterion: the
increase must be "sharp" and "significant". Ac cording to the European Communities, Japan and
Norway, this requirement is derived from the expression "in such increased quantities" where "such"
clarifies that not any increase is sufficient.1462 The Agreement on Safeguards does not specify which
particular rate of increase is sufficient to meet the requirement of a sharp and significant increase, but
it obliges the competent authorities to correctly evaluate the trends in imports over a longer period.
On the basis of a proper evaluation of such trends, panels can review whether import surges aresufficiently sharp and significant.
1463 China adds that the WTO standard is much higher than the
simple demonstration of imports in increased quantities required by United States law.1464
7.507 China and Switzerland recall that safeguard measures are measures of extraordinary nature.
These "emergency measures" do not allow a finding on increased imports where there has been such a
1454 Contrary to Korea's assertion at the second panel meeting, the panel in US – Line Pipe specifically
endorsed the USITC's finding that subject imports had increased absolutely despite a recent decline in import
volume. Panel Report, US – Line Pipe , para. 7.210.
1455 United States' written reply to Panel question No.14 at the second substantive meeting.
1456 New Shorter Oxford English Dictionary at 2481 (1993) (defines "rate" as "speed of movement,
change, etc.; rapidity with which something takes place").
1457 Brazil's first written submission, para. 123; Japan's first written submission, para. 182.
1458 Japan's first written submission, para. 182
1459 United States' first written submission, para. 181.
1460 The word "rate" is defined as "a fixed relation (as of quantity, amount, or degree) between two
things." Webster's Third New International Dictionary , p. 1884.
1461 United States' first written submission, para. 218.
1462 European Communities' written reply to Panel question No. 37 at the first substantive meeting;
Japans' written reply to Panel question No. 37 at the first substantive meeting; Norway's first written
submission, para. 83.
1463 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 275-277.
1464 China's first written submission, para. 223.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 208
steady and gradual increase of imports over a longer period that the domestic industry could have
adjusted to.1465 New Zealand and Norway add that a "steady increase" could very well be the natural
and foreseeable consequence of tariff concessions.1466
7.508 Brazil and Japan add that the increase in import volume must be "such" as – i.e., sufficient –
to cause or threaten serious injury to the domestic industry producing the like or directly competitive
product. It would therefore be insufficient to find a minor increase in imports even if there were a
causal link between imports and the industry's injury ( e.g., a price-related impact with no concomitant
volume-related impact). Rather, the increase itself must be big enough to cause the damage.1467
7.509 New Zealand affirms that a Member wishing to impose safeguard measures thus faces a high
threshold when making determinations with respec t to increased imports. A competent authority must
analyse the trend in imports over the period of investigation to establish that there is a sharp and
sudden increase. It must also examine the direction of the most recent imports – any sharp sudden
increase needs to have occurred in the "very recent pa st". Finally, it must consider the significance of
any increase – both in quantitative and qualitative terms.1468
7.510 China and Japan also point out that the panel must asses whether the USITC explicitly
demonstrated that increases in imports have been recent enough, sudden enough, sharp enough, and
significant enough, both quantitatively and qualitatively, to cause or threaten to cause "serious
injury".1469
7.511 According to the United States, the Agreement on Safeguards does not set out absolute
standards for how recent, sudden, sharp or significant an increase in imports must be. Indeed, the
Agreement on Safeguards contains none of those descriptive terms. The Appellate Body's use of
those terms can only have been intended to provide a shorthand exposition of the requirement that
increased imports must ultimately be found to be enough to cause serious injury or threat to the
relevant domestic industry.1470
7.512 New Zealand submits that the United States seems determined to divert attention from the
"recent", "sudden", "sharp" and "significant" references of the Appellate Body. These references
seem to disappear in the United States argumentation, replaced with an emphasis that imports must
simply be "enough" with none of the adjectives em ployed by the Appellate Body to describe what
really informs the test. The United States casts no real light on how the USITC could, on any
reasonable basis, have arrived at a determination of increased imports. It is clear from the rapidity
with which the United States follows its statement that there is no absolute standard1471 to determine
increased imports, with a statement that "an increase in either absolute or relative import levels alone"
may suffice1472, that the United States continues to be attached to the notion that "any increase" meets
the standard.1473
1465 China's first written submission, para. 216; Switzerland's first written submission, para. 249.
1466 New Zealand's written reply to Panel question No. 42 at the first substantive meeting; Norway's
written reply to Panel question No. 42 at the first substantive meeting.
1467 Brazil's first written submission, para. 122; Japan's first written submission, para. 181..
1468 New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.76.
1469 China's first written submission, para. 220; Japan's first written submission, para. 185.
1470 United States' first written submission, para. 216.
1471 United States first written submission, para 216.
1472 Ibid, para. 217.
1473 New Zealand's first written submission, para. 3.70.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 209
7.513 The United States argues that the complainants misconstrue or ignore the Appellate Body and
panel reports addressing the "increased imports" requirement of the Agreement on Safeguards. Theymisconstrue the Appellate Body's report in Argentina – Footwear (EC) by arguing that an increase in
imports must be recent, sudden, sharp, and significant, according to some absolute standard. It is
clear that there are no such absolute standards for how recent, sudden, sharp or significant the increase
in imports must be. As the Appellate Body said, it is not a "mathematical or technical
determination".
1474 The Appellate Body was very clear – the imports must be recent enough, sudden
enough, sharp enough, and significant enough to cause or threaten serious injury. These are questions
that are answered as competent authorities proceed with the remainder of their analysis ( i.e., with their
consideration of serious injury/threat and causation). These analyses need not form a part of the
evaluation of the threshold issue of whether the imports have increased either absolutely or relative to
the domestic industry.1475 The United States notes that Article 4.2(a) of the Safeguards Agreement
(which the Appellate Body was interpreting when it spoke of "recent enough, sudden enough, sharp
enough, and significant enough") encompasses the entire investigative responsibility of competentauthorities under the Safeguards Agreement. The United States adds that the fact that the drafters of
the Agreement on Safeguards did not intend to impose a specific "increased imports" standard is
reinforced by a comparison with Article 5 of the Agreement on Agriculture, in which the drafters laid
out specific numeric standards for measuring increased imports and setting specific measures for each
level of imports.
1476
7.514 The European Communities and Japan respond that they have not argued that a quantitative
analysis is a purely mathematical or technical determination according to some absolute numerical
standard. Rather, such determination should be made on a case-by-case-basis, by carefully analysing
import trends in the most recent period and by contrasting them with trends in earlier parts of the
investigation period.1477 Japan adds that a competent authority must not declare that increased imports
exist, for example, simply because imports have in creased by some negligible amount over the period
of investigation. There are quantitative and qualitative judgments to be made regarding the existence,
as opposed to the effect, of increased imports.1478 New Zealand adds that a "mathematical or technical
determination" is in fact at the heart of the United States approach to "increased imports". Behind the
United States position that "there is no minimum quantity by which imports must have increased; a
simple increase is sufficient" is the notion that "any increase" can suffice.1479
7.515 Japan and Brazil respond that the qualitative and quantitative requirements concerning
increased imports should be viewed within the context of the purposes of safeguard measures – that is
"emergency action" against a product. The word "emergency" is defined as "a situation, especially of
danger or conflict, that arises unexpectedly and requires urgent action; a condition requiring
immediate treatment"1480, implying something that has happened quickly or suddenly.1481 Since the
increase in imports is supposed to be causing serious injury, this would seem to imply more than aninsignificant or small increase. While this aspect ultimately relates to the issue of causation, Korea
and Brazil argue that it remains a threshold issue separate from the issue of causation; it concerns the
extent of the increase rather than the effect of the increase.
1482 In contrast, the United States attempts
1474 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC), para. 131.
1475 United States' first written submission, para. 177.
1476 United States' second written submission, para. 96.
1477 European Communities' first written submission, para. 149; Japan's second written submission,
para. 90.
1478 Japan's first written submission, para. 90.
1479 New Zealand's second written submission, para. 3.67.
1480 The New Shorter Oxford English Dictionary (1993) at 806.
1481 Japan's second written submission, para. 87.
1482 Korea's first written submission, para. 91; Brazil's first written submission, paras. 52-53.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 210
to collapse the "increased imports" requirement with the separate "causation test".1483 According to
New Zealand, the United States in effect says that the increased import requirement simply forms partof the causation analysis required under Article 4.2(b) of the Agreement on Safeguards. But there is
no support to be found for this assertion in the law.
1484
7.516 The United States responds that, on the contrary, the United States recognizes that the
Agreement on Safeguards contains a separate "increased imports" requirement. However, unlike the
complainants, the United States does not invest this requirement with more significance than is
warranted by the text of the Agreement on Safeguards. This separate "increased imports" requirement
is satisfied, in the first instance, by any incr ease in imports, absolute or relative to domestic
production. However, this does not mean that ultimately "any increase will do". As competent
authorities consider the other conditions necessary for imposition of a safeguard, they determine as
directed by the Appellate Body in Argentina – Footwear (EC) , whether the increase in imports was
recent enough, sudden enough, sharp enough, and significant enough to cause or threaten serious
injury.1485 The United States submits that for each of the products for which the United States applied
a safeguard measure, the USITC found that the pertinent domestic industry was seriously injured or
threatened with serious injury and found the requisite causal link between the increased imports and
that injury or threat. This analysis, taken as a whole, established that the increases in imports were
"recent enough, sudden enough, sharp enough, and significant enough"1486 to cause serious injury or
the threat of serious injury.1487
7.517 The United States also argues that the complainants seek to support their position that the
increased imports requirement encompasses temporal, quantitative and qualitative conditions that are
independent of the causation analysis by pointing to the fact that the Appellate Body addressed the
question of increased imports as "a stand-alone issue" in Argentina – Footwear (EC) .1488 The fact that
the Appellate Body organized its Report in Argentina – Footwear (EC) in a certain way (i.e., with
subheadings entitled "Increased Imports", "Serious Injury", and "Causation" – all under the heading of
"Interpretation and Application of Articles 2 and 4 of the Agreement on Safeguards") does not detract
from the fact that the Appellate Body was interp reting Article 2.1, which encompasses the entire
investigative responsibility of competent authorities under the Agreement on Safeguards.1489
7.518 Korea submits that the reason emergency action is permitted under the Agreement on
Safeguards is that the unforeseen and sudden increase in imports is still occurring – i.e., the need for
emergency action is still present.1490 Korea also argues that high volume imports having a significant
presence in the market, if they are not suddenly and sharply increasing, either absolutely or relatively,
cannot serve as a basis for concluding that an "emergency" exists caused by the imports. There is
nothing extraordinary about import levels per se .1491
7.519 The European Communities submits that the term "in such quantities" read contextually with
"as a result of unforeseen developments" and "eme rgency action", requires some extraordinary and
unexpected increase in import volumes which must be established by comparing recent import
1483 Korea's first written submission, para. 90.
1484 New Zealand's second written submission, paras. 3.60-61.
1485 United States' second written submission, para. 93.
1486 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para. 131.
1487 United States' second written submission, para. 94.
1488 Japan's written reply to Panel question No. 36 at the first substantive meeting.
1489 United States' second written submission, para. 97.
1490 Korea's first written submission, para. 93.
1491 Korea's first written submission, para. 110.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 211
volumes against those in earlier parts of the investigation period.1492 China argues that the United
States attempts to create confusion between the requirement that a product is being imported inincreased quantities, on the one hand, and the requirement that the increased imports cause or threaten
to cause serious injury, on the other. According to the European Communities, China and Norway,
the Appellate Body has clearly stated, in Argentina – Footwear (EC) , that there are three separate
conditions to be met for the application of safeguard measures
1493, hence the increased imports
requirement should be subject to separate analysis and determination.1494 The European Communities
adds that the analysis of whether there is a substantial and genuine link between increased imports and
serious injury is qualitatively something differ ent than showing an abnormal import development.1495
7.520 Japan adds that a comparison is required, not so much to determine the effect of increased
imports in a causal sense, but to determine the existence of increased imports in light of the relative
trends in imports. The comparison is made between recent import trends, which are at the heart of the
increased imports inquiry, and import trends over the entire period of investigation. It serves as a
litmus test to determine if an emergency exists and, therefore, if emergency action is required.1496
7.521 The European Communities and Switzerland further argue that the more gradual and steady
or otherwise "normal" and foreseeable an increase in imports becomes, the higher is the burden for a
WTO Member wishing to take a safeguard measure to analyse import volumes and explain to its
trading partners why it considers that their exports have increased more than expected.1497
3. Requirement of reasoned and adequate explanation
7.522 Korea adds that, at a minimum, Articles 2.1 and 4.2(a) of the Agreement on Safeguards
required the USITC to explain and reconcile its conclusion that imports had increased with the fact
that imports were declining.1498
4. Case-specific arguments
(a) Consideration of 2001 data
(i) Full-Year 2001 data
7.523 The European Communities, China1499, Norway1500 and Switzerland1501 further argue that the
USITC ignored import trends in the most recent past, i.e. 2001. The import data for the full year of
2001 were available when the USITC updated its Report and completed its determination in February
2002, but there is no explanation why the USITC did not use this information about crucial
developments, i.e. import decreases, in the "very rece nt past". These data are relevant for determining
1492 European Communities' first written submission, para. 156; European Communities' written reply
to Panel question No. 4 at the second substantive meeting.
1493 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , para.92.
1494 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 157-160; China's first written submission,
paras. 83-85; Norway's second written submission, paras. 81-82.
1495 European Communities' first written submission, para. 160.
1496 Japan's second written submission, para. 82.
1497 European Communities' first written submission, para. 166; Switzerland's first written submission,
para. 76.
1498 Korea's first written submission, para. 73.
1499 China's first written submission, para. 231.
1500 Norway's first written submission, para. 255-256.
1501 Switzerland's first written submission, para. 247.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 212
whether a product still "is being imported …".1502 In any event, according to the European
Communities and Japan1503, the full year data for 2001 were available to the President when he took
the decision to impose the safeguard measures.1504 They had to be taken into account even if they had
not been available to the USITC1505 and, according to Brazil, the European Communities and New
Zealand1506, they confirmed the decreases already present in interim 20011507, and showed that they
were no temporary phenomenon.1508
7.524 According to the United States, fundamental legal and practical considerations should lead the
Panel to reject the complainants' attempts to expand the period of investigation to encompass full-year
2001 data that are not on the record of the USITC's investigation that began in early July 2001. TheUnited States submits, first, that to the extent th at the complainants are suggesting that the USITC
should have relied on full-year 2001 data without giving interested parties an opportunity to comment
on those updated data, the complainants' position is directly at odds with Article 3.1 of the Agreement
on Safeguards.
1509
7.525 The United States points out that if the USITC had updated the import data to include full-
year 2001 figures, it would also have had to update all the data in the record, including data
concerning injury and causation because increased imports must be examined in the context of their
effects on the domestic industry. By the time that this could have been accomplished, full-year 2001
data would no longer be the most current. Thus, the complainants' proposed use of full-year 2001
data would have required an endless process of updating data that would preclude any final decisionin a safeguards investigation. The United States submits that it is obvious that competent authorities
must be permitted to set the end of a period of investigation at a point that will permit them to gather,
compile and analyse not only import data but also information concerning the condition of the
domestic industry and the overall market environment. It is also clear that in setting the end of the
period of investigation at 30 June 2001, the USITC was gathering the most recent information itcould.
1510
7.526 The United States adds that the complainants are also wrong in suggesting that, even if the
USITC could not, the President should have taken into account full-year 2001 data. Such an approach
would sever the connection between the investigation by a Member's competent authorities and the
Member's decision to take a safeguard measure. This would be inconsistent with the fundamental
premise of the Agreement on Safeguards that a measure should only be taken following a proper
investigation by a Member's competent authorities.1511
(ii) Interim 2001 data
7.527 New Zealand sees no need to rely on 2001 full-year data to make its case. Annualized 2001
import volume data based on the interim 2001 data1512 recorded in the USITC Report should have
1502 European Communities' written reply to Panel question No. 38 at the first substantive meeting;
Norway's written reply to Panel question No. 38 at the first substantive meeting.
1503 Japan's written reply to Panel question No. 38 at the first substantive meeting.
1504 European Communities' first written submission, para. 284-286.
1505 Japan's written reply to Panel question No. 39 at the first substantive meeting.
1506 New Zealand's written reply to Panel question No. 38 at the first substantive meeting.
1507 European Communities' written reply to Panel question No. 39 at the first substantive meeting.
1508 Brazil's written reply to Panel question No. 38 at the first substantive meeting.
1509 United States' first written submission, para. 202-204.
1510 United States' first written submission, paras. 205-206.
1511 United States' first written submission, para. 207.
1512 Interim 2001 data divided by first half interim 2000 data multiplied by full year 2000 data.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 213
indicated to the USITC by the middle of 2001 the sharply decreasing trend in import volumes and
market share.1513 These annualized trends were, as it turned out, almost exactly matched by the full
year 2001 data which was available at the time the two Supplementary Reports were made by the
USITC.1514 1515
7.528 Similarly, the European Communities notes that the United States accepts that full year 2001
data was available to the USITC when it considered for the first time whether non-FTA imports had
increased, i.e., in February 2002. However, the United States denies that the Second Supplementary
Report was a "determination" within the meaning of Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards and
submits that the USITC's determination for the purpose of the Panel's review were the determinationson pages 1, 17 and 18 of the original USITC Report issued on 22 October.
1516 The European
Communities submits that even if the Panel agreed with the United States that full year 2001 data was
not available when the USITC made its "determination", the use of "full year 2001" data is not
"critical" to the complainant's case. The European Communities built its case on the lack of proper
consideration of the most recent import data available, be it interim 2001 or full year 2001. Upon"clarification" by the United States that only the USITC Report from October 2001 forms the relevant
determination, the graphs illustrating the import trends provided by the complainants in common
Annex A to the first written submission were revised so as to strictly reflect only annualized interim
2001 data that was available to the USITC at the time of the original report in October 2001. The
European Communities explains that annualizing the interim 2001 data does not mean to "double"them.
1517 The European Communities annualized the interim 2001 data according to the following
formula: annualized interim 2001 = (interim 2001/interim 2000) x full year 2000. The European
Communities submits that this approach fully preserves the USITC's assumption of seasonal
fluctuations and essentially compares interim 2001 data with interim 2000 data, as was done by the
USITC during the investigation, while allowing to fit the resulting trend onto a yearly graph and
therefore to discern an overall trend.1518
7.529 Brazil submits that the 2001 data points can be represented in various ways. Given that the
United States had full 2001 data while it was both still considering whether to impose safeguard
measures and obtaining additional information from the USITC, one could rely on actual 2001 data.
In the alternative, one could construct a surrogate for full year 2001 data in various ways, including
deriving the second half of 2001 based on actual first half 2001 data adjusted by the ratio of first and
second half 2000 data. Brazil submits that what is important is not how it is done, but why. Theobjective is to determine how import levels during the first half of 2001, the interim period, compared
with import levels during the entire period of investigation. Because import levels for 1996, 1997,
1998 and 1999 are only provided based on annual levels, in order to measure the magnitude of interim
2001 imports, it is necessary to convert these imports into a full year equivalent basis in order to put
interim 2001 import levels in the proper context.
1519
1513 New Zealand's first written submission, Figures 2 and 3 (p. 50).
1514 Compare New Zealand's first written submission, Figure 2 (p. 50) with the European Communities'
first written submission, Figure 5 (para 299).
1515 New Zealand's first written submission, para. 3.71.
1516 The European Communities disagrees with the United States and submits that because the October
2001 USITC Report only analyzed imports from all sources, the determination violates the parallelism principle.See European Communities' second written submission, paras. 40-51, 186.
1517 United States' oral statement at the second substantive meeting, para. 41; European Communities's
second written submission, para. 188; European Communities's written reply to Panel question No. 16 at the
second substantive meeting.
1518 European Communities' written reply to Panel question No. 16 at the second substantive meeting.
1519 Brazil's written reply to Panel question No. 16 at the second substantive meeting.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 214
7.530 According to the United States, interim data was available to the USITC in the course of the
investigation, and interim data was used by the USITC. The United States submits that nocomplainant has been able to show that a competent authority is required to do more than the USITC
did in gathering or using the most recent and complete data set available at the time the
determinations were made. Interim data for 2001 should be compared to interim data for 2000, while
interim data should be segregated from full-year data. With regard to the argument by the European
Communities that "annualizing" interim data would preserve the proportionate relationship between
interim 2000 data and interim 2001 data while allowing them to be placed on the same chart as annual
data, the graphic representation would suggest that the "annualized" 2001 data were comparable tofull year 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000 data, the United States submits that that is simply not the
case.
1520
7.531 While the USITC gathered data for the first half of 2001 (interim 2001), in the European
Communities' and Switzerland's view, it did not properly consider them.1521 Whenever the interim
2001 data showed a decrease, the weight was given to the 1996-2000 development. This generalapproach could not, in itself, demonstrate that imports are "being imported" in increased quantities.
1522
7.532 The United States argues that the complainan ts' criticism that the USITC failed to give
enough weight to interim 2001 import data when these showed a decrease in imports is unfounded.
An exclusive focus on import data in interim 2001 would disregard the annual data in preceding years,
and the trends examined must cover the entire period of investigation.1523
7.533 The European Communities further submits that the USITC's approach does not explicitly
analyse the intervening decreasing trends discernible from 2001 data and does not give an adequate
and reasoned explanation why such development would still justify a determination that imports
remain at "such increased quantities". Instead, the USITC did nothing more than describing the 2001
interim data or stating that despite the decrease in the interim data, the statutory criterion was stillsatisfied.
1524
7.534 China contends that it was not possible for the USITC to consider the very last portion of the
period of investigation when determining trends in imports because the amount of imports for a half-
year period cannot be compared to the amount of imports for a full-year period. It would also be false
to assume that a trend in imports can be determined for the very last portion of the period of
investigation by comparing interim 2001 with interim 2000. China submits that this comparison can
only reveal whether the amount of imports during the first half of 2001 was more or less important
than the amount of imports 12 months earlier, bu t not what happened between the two periods and
how imports fluctuated over the period of the last 18 months, which would be necessary in order to
determine a trend. Hence, the USITC did not give most recent imports all the importance that they
deserved.1525 China notes that it is not suggesting that the United States should have disregarded the
2001 data. Indeed, the 2001 data constitute the most recent data and China is of the opinion that theUSITC should have given proper attention to the mo st recent trends which, for most of the products,
as for instance CCFRS, show a clear declining trend. However, China is of the view that the United
1520 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 16 at the second substantive meeting.
1521 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 16 at the second substantive meeting.
1522 European Communities' first written submission, para. 280, 287; Switzerland's first written
submission, para. 247.
1523 United States' first written submission, para. 196.
1524 European Communities' first written submission, para. 182; European Communities's second
written submission, paras. 169-182.
1525 China's first written submission, para. 227-231.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 215
States should have considered the full year data for 2001, since the final determinations were made
after the end of 2001 at a time were full-year data for 2001 were available. In doing so, the UnitedStates would have allowed to analyse the overall trend and to verify the USITC's assumption of
seasonal fluctuations, which is used to justify the comparison between interim 2000 and 2001 data.
1526
7.535 The European Communities also argues that the 2001 data (full year or interim) constitute the
most recent data and are decisive to determine whether products "are being imported" at increased
quantities. The European Communities considers that the USITC failed to give proper weight to the
interim 2001 data.1527 Brazil submits that the interim 2001 data is extremely important for two
reasons. First, it confirms that the downward tr end in CCFRS imports begun in 1999 continued and,
in fact, accelerated, toward the end of the period of investigation. Second, it confirms that CCFRS
imports at the end of the period of investigation had reached the lowest level of the entire
investigation period. Given that interim 2001 was the most recent period investigated by the USITC,
Brazil sees no basis for ignoring the import levels during this period. Furthermore, since the period
encompassed a full six months and the declines during the period followed declines in imports duringthe immediately preceding semi-annual period, the sh arp decline shown in CCFRS imports during the
interim period cannot be considered either temporary or an aberration.
1528 Korea notes that the fact
that 2001 is "interim" does not prevent a direct comparison of imports relative to production – the
percentages are directly comparable. Moreover, the fact that the period is six months in length does
not prevent a meaningful analysis of the import data per se . In the case of flat-rolled, the interim data
is particularly telling.
(b) Period of investigation
7.536 The European Communities and Norway1529 argue that the choice of 1996 as a base year
apparently served the purpose of disguising significant and steady decreases in imports for eight of the
ten product groups since a peak in 1998 or later. With very few exceptions, the USITC does not relyon the trends over the years between 1996 and 2001.
1530 1531 New Zealand argues that the USITC
manifestly failed to consider trends throughout the period of investigation.1532 China adds that the
USITC's approach, in line with its tradition, of considering import trends over the most recent five and
a half-year period prevented the USITC from considering fully the most recent imports.1533
7.537 The United States argues that the complainants' assertion that the USITC selected 1996 as a
base year in order to achieve a particular result has no merit. The USITC followed its established
practice in safeguards investigations of using a period of investigation of five years plus whateverinterim period is available.
1534 The United States also rejects China's assertion that the USITC's
period of investigation prevented the USITC from "considering fully the most recent imports"1535 The
1526 China's written reply to Panel question No. 15 at the second substantive meeting.
1527 European Communities's first written submission, para. 284 and 287; European Communities'
written reply to Panel question No. 15 at the second substantive meeting.
1528 Brazil's written reply to Panel question No. 15 at the second substantive meeting.
1529 Norway's first written submission, para. 254.
1530 The only two exceptions are the findings on certain tubular products, and certain carbon alloy
fittings and flanges, the only products for which the 2001 data did not reveal a manifest decrease in imports andtherefore supported the predetermined conclusion. USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 157 and 171.
1531 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 280 and 283.
1532 New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.78.
1533 China's first written submission, paras. 224 and 226.
1534 United States' first written submission, para. 194.
1535 China's first written submission, para. 226.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 216
period of investigation must be long enough to draw appropriate conclusions regarding the state of the
domestic industry.1536
7.538 China responds that the methodology of investigating the last five and a half years does not
allow meaningful conclusions to be drawn as far as the assessment of increased imports is
concerned.1537
7.539 The United States objects to the view that the USITC's practice of reviewing imports over a
five-year period precludes the USITC from considering trends within that period, including recent
trends in imports, as directed by the Appellate Body in Argentina – Footwear (EC) .1538 As an initial
matter, the panel in US – Line Pipe has already upheld the USITC's use of a five-year period of
investigation because it allows an analysis of recent trends in imports, consistent with the Appellate
Body's rulings.1539 Moreover, the record demonstrates that for each of the ten measures at issue in this
proceeding, the USITC in fact examined trends within the five-year period, including recent trends in
imports.1540
7.540 The complainants respond that the United States has misunderstood them. The complainants
contest the failure to properly consider interven ing trends and the failure to show that where,
unusually, imports did increase, this was extraordinary and unexpected.1541
(c) Method of analysis of increased imports
(i) Quantitative analysis required?
7.541 The European Communities claims that the United States was not entitled to content itself
with finding a "simple increase" in imports as oppose d to a sudden, sharp and significant or otherwise
extraordinary surge in imports. The complete lack of a quantitative analysis particularly affects the
two exceptional cases where imports had increased (tubular products and fittings and flanges). The
USITC should have explained why imports should have been considered to have increased sharply
and significantly enough, as opposed to merely gradually, so as to cause or threaten to cause seriousinjury to the domestic industry.
1542 New Zealand argues that the USITC manifestly failed to place
any weight on the extent to which increased imports have been "recent enough, sudden enough, sharp
enough, or significant enough both quantitatively and qualitatively" to justify a positive
determination.1543 Norway and Switzerland also point to a flaw in the USITC's methodology affecting
the findings concerning all products resulting from the lack of a quantitative analysis. Nowhere has
the USITC demonstrated that an alleged increase of imports was sharp and substantial.1544
7.542 The United States argues that the complainants' position that the USITC failed to engage in an
adequate "quantitative analysis" of the import data is unfounded. Competent authorities are not
required to analyse the import data in every possible permutation when the data speak for themselves.
1536 United States' first written submission, para. 195.
1537 China's second written submission, para. 100.
1538 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) .
1539 Panel Report, US – Line Pipe , para. 7201.
1540 United States' second written submission, para. 25.
1541 European Communities' second oral statement "Scope and Standard of Review" on behalf of the
complainants, para. 16.
1542 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 288-289.
1543 New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.78.
1544 Norway's first written submission, paras. 252, 259; Switzerland's first written submission,
para. 249.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 217
The USITC described the import data in a clear and straightforward manner and, accordingly, acted in
conformity with the Agreement on Safeguards. The United States submits that the complainantserroneously support their arguments by focusing only on the "Increased Imports" section for each
product in the USITC Report. This section, however, must be read together with the "Serious Injury"
and "Substantial Cause" sections, to evaluate the USITC's determination that a product is "being
imported … in such increased quantities, absolute or relative to domestic production, and under such
conditions as to cause or threaten to cause serious injury to the domestic industry".
1545
7.543 In counter-response, Korea submits that the USITC completely failed to conduct a
quantitative and qualitative analysis showing that import surge was of such a nature as to cause
serious injury or threat thereof.1546 For the counter-responses of the European Communities, see
sections F.2.(b) and (d).
(ii) End-point analysis
7.544 The European Communities, Norway1547 and Switzerland1548 contend that the USITC applied
an erroneous methodology for evaluating increased imports, rendering all findings on increasedimports inconsistent with Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards. The USITC's methodology as
applied in this case only aimed at finding a "simple increase" in imports at some point during the
investigation period without considering whether such increase was sufficiently recent, sudden, sharp
and significant.
1549 Korea argues that this basically turns the "increased import" requirement into a
mere "import" requirement.1550 The European Communities, New Zealand, Norway and Switzerland
argue that the USITC failed to focus on the most recent past and to find a sudden and recent increase,
but rather based its determinations on an end-poi nt-to-end-point comparison of import data from 1996
and 2000.1551 1552
7.545 The United States claims that for each of the ten steel products with respect to which it has
taken a safeguard measure, the USITC Report contains an adequate, reasoned and reasonableexplanation of how the facts in the record support the USITC's determination that there were imports
in such increased quantities, and under such conditions, as to cause or threaten serious injury to the
domestic industry.
1553
7.546 According to the United States, the complainants' claims that the United States made
methodological errors are without merit. First, the USITC did not engage in a simple-end point
analysis of comparing import data in 1996 with import data in 2000, and it did not fail to consider
intervening movements or trends in imports over the entire period of investigation. The USITCconsidered trends in imports over the entire period of investigation for each product, often stating the
1545 United States' first written submission, para. 198-199.
1546 Korea's first written submission, para. 106.
1547 Norway's first written submission, para. 250.
1548 Switzerland's first written submission, para. 250.
1549 European Communities' first written submission, para. 143.
1550 Korea's first written submission, para. 98.
1551 USITC Report, Vol. I, pp. 49, 71, 91, 101, 109, 157, 171, 205, 213, and 234.
1552 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 280, 282-283; New Zealand's first written
submission, para. 4.78; Norway's first written submission, paras. 252-254; Switzerland's first writtensubmission, paras. 243, 245.
1553 United States' first written submission, paras. 221, 232, 246, 255, 266, 276, 288, 302, 317.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 218
absolute and relative imports for each year of the period of investigation and for the interim
periods.1554
7.547 The European Communities responds that the United States misconstrues its claim as
attacking the end-point-to-end-point analysis as opposed to the USITC's failure to systematically
consider import trends. The United States has not indicated where the USITC has systematically
calculated and compared the rate and amount of annual developments in accordance with the Articles
2.1 and 4.2 of the Agreement on Safeguards as interpreted by the Appellate Body. Such analysis is the
basis for adequately considering intervening trends at the sensitive end points of the period of
investigation and whether import volumes are abnormal.1555
(d) Consideration of decline in imports
7.548 Norway adds that the investigation period in Argentina – Footwear (EC) was 1991-1995, and
the Appellate Body rejected the analysis presented by Argentina, as it did not adequately consider the
steady and significant decline in imports beginning in 1994.1556 Norway submits that this is the same
situation as that in the present case, with increases for most product groupings from 1996-1998, andsteady and significant declines in 1999, 2000 and interim 2001.
1557 Korea adds that the Appellate
Body in Argentina – Footwear (EC) clarified that an increase in imports at one point in the
investigation period cannot justify a safeguard measure if there has been a steady and significant
decline ever since.1558 1559
(e) Aggregation of products
7.549 The European Communities and Norway criticize the USITC's findings on increased imports
because the safeguard measures applied by the United States are based on data relating to broader
categories of products than those to which safeguard measures apply.1560
5. Measure-specific argumentation
(a) CCFRS
7.550 The European Communities considers that the United States violated its obligations under
Articles 2.1, and 3.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards by imposing safeguard measures on plate, hot-
rolled steel, cold-rolled steel, coated steel and sl abs despite a recent, sharp and significant decrease in
imports both as a single bundle, or "Certain Flat Steel, other than Slabs", or with respect to each
separate product.1561
7.551 The United States argues in response that the USITC Report contains an adequate, reasoned
and reasonable explanation of how the facts in the record support the USITC's determination that
1554 United States' first written submission, para. 193.
1555 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 272-274 and 289; European Communities'
second written submission, paras. 190-192.
1556 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC), para. 129.
1557 Norway's second written submission, para. 93.
1558 Appellate Body Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC), paras. 128-129.
1559 Korea's first written submission, para. 101.
1560 European Communities' first written submission, para. 290; Norway's first written submission,
para. 260.
1561 European Communities' first written submission, para. 293.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 219
there were imports of CCFRS in such increased quantities, and under such conditions, as to cause
serious injury to the domestic industry.1562
(i) Aggregation
7.552 The European Communities submits that the United States has not explained why the
evidence underlying the increased import determination has been provided on the basis of the
"imported product" entitled "Carbon & Alloy Flat Products" as identified by President Bush1563,
although data was collected for seven different sub-groupings. Equally contradictory is the fact that
the analysis and findings concerning increased imports in the USITC Report were based on one
CCFRS product, while the increased imports determination by contrast, was based on five differentproduct groupings.
1564 1565 Brazil, China, the European Communities and New Zealand argue that no
matter how the USITC aggregates the five different flat products, under no circumstances has it
demonstrated a recent, sudden, sharp and significant increase in imports for the five products plate,
hot-rolled steel, cold-rolled steel, coated steel and slabs neither as a single bundle, nor for "Certain
Flat Steel, other than Slabs", nor for each separate product.1566
7.553 Similarly, Korea argues that the USITC's analysis of increased imports is flawed because it is
not based on the proper like product for the fi ve flat-rolled products. The USITC should have
analysed imports of (1) slabs, (2) ho t-rolled steel, (3) cold-rolled stee l, (4) coated steel, and (5) plate
as individual like products. However, even if "flat-rolled" products are analysed as a single like
product, imports of flat-rolled steel have not increased suddenly, sharply, or recently.1567 According
to Korea, the USITC's erroneous like product analysis obscured the fact that cold-rolled, coated, and
plate – even an end-point-to-end- point analysis – showed no absolute or relative increase in imports
within the meaning of the Agreement on Safeguards . The entire increase in the end-to-end point
comparison for certain flat-rolled was due to a modera te increase, over five years, of hot-rolled and
slab, but both had declined significantly in the period preceding the USITC's decision.1568 N e w
Zealand argues that products falling within the certain carbon flat-rolled category were not, either
separately or in aggregate, being imported in the increased quantities contemplated by the Agreement
on Safeguards as a condition for the application of a safeguard measure. The USITC's determination
in this matter is manifestly flawed.1569 China adheres to the arguments made by other complainants
with regard to the product included in the categ ory of certain flat steel, taken separately.1570
7.554 In addition, the European Communities points out th at it is not for the complainants or the
Panel to analyse increased imports separately in respect of the individual product groups for which thetwo safeguard measures applying to "Certain Flat Steel" are imposed. Nevertheless, according to the
European Communities, Brazil and New Zealand, it can be demonstrated that even when considered
separately, there is no basis for concluding that imports of these product groups have increased
1562 United States' first written submission, para. 221.
1563 USITC Report, Vol. II, Table Flat 3.
1564 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 1
1565 European Communities' first written submission, para. 196.
1566 China's first written submission, paras. 245-246.; European Communities' first written submission,
para. 293; Brazil's first written submission, para. 133; New Zealand's first written submission, para. 3.69.
1567 Korea's first written submission, para. 74.
1568 Korea's first written submission, paras. 88-89.
1569 New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.77.
1570 China's first written submission, para. 250.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 220
recently, suddenly, sharply and significantly. Instead, both in absolute and in relative terms, they
showed a sharp decrease.1571
7.555 New Zealand points out that total import volumes for plate decreased 52% between 1996 and
2001 and the ratio of imports to domestic production dropped 20% during the same period. Imports
of cold-rolled steel increased slightly in absolute terms during the period of investigation, but there
has been a significant and sustained downward trend since 1998. The quantities of imports relative to
domestic production remained almost constant between 1996 and 2000, but decreased by
approximately 30% between 1998 and 2000. Imports of coated steel have declined steadily and
significantly since 1999, and the 2001 data reveals an overall decrease in imports in both absolute andrelative terms since 1996. Import trends for slab show that although there was an increase in imports
in 1999 and 2000, in 2001 imports decreased by 25% as compared with those two previous years and
by 10% if compared to 1996.
1572
7.556 Brazil adds that on the basis of full-year 2001 data, each of the individual flat-rolled products
also continued to decline.1573 Cold-rolled products were the only exception, due to an anti-dumping
investigation in 2000 which artificially drove imports down.1574
7.557 The United States responds that the complainants raise arguments about the import data for
items for which a separate injury determination was not made.1575 Given the USITC's like product
determinations, the USITC was not required to make separate increased import determinations for
slab or corrosion-resistant steel, and the trends for those products are not relevant to whether theUSITC's analysis of the increase in imports for cer tain carbon flat-rolled steel was consistent with
Article 2.1.
1576
7.558 Korea also claims that the USITC's investigation of increased imports for flat-rolled products
falls far short of the reasoned and adequate explanation of how the underlying facts support its
determination as required by Articles 2.1 and 4.2(a) of the Agreement on Safeguards. The USITC hadan obligation to explain its conclusion that imports increased in light of the data which directly
conflicts with that conclusion.
1577
(ii) "Increased imports" within the meaning of the Agreement on Safeguards?
7.559 Japan and New Zealand argue that the USITC acknowledged, but ignored, the fact that import
volume declined 40% between the first half of 2000 and the first half of 2001.1578 1579 China, the
European Communities and Korea1580 point out that, at the time the President of the United States
took his decision, the full year 2001 data were available and confirmed that imports had even fallen tolevels below 1996.
1581 Since the most important increase occurred in 1998, three years before the
1571 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 305-308; Brazil's first written submission,
paras. 134-135; New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.87.
1572 New Zealand's first written submission, paras. 4.88–4.92
1573 Brazil's first written submission, paras. 139-143.
1574 Brazil's first written submission, para. 144.
1575 Brazil's written reply to Panel question No. 41 at the first substantive meeting.
1576 United States' second written submission, para. 107.
1577 Korea's first written submission, para. 87.
1578 Korea's first written submission, paras. 49-50.
1579 Japan's first written submission, para. 190; New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.83.
1580 Korea's first written submission, para. 82.
1581 China's first written submission, para. 241; European Communities' first written submission,
para. 298.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 221
imposition of the safeguard measures, and was immediately followed by an important decline, China
and Korea believe that increased imports were certainly not recent enough. They also were not sharpand significant enough.
1582
7.560 Korea submits that imports of flat-rolled declined by roughly 18% between 1998 and 1999.
Imports then remained at 1999 levels in 2000, showing a statistically insignificant increase (0.3%).
Imports then proceeded to decline to their lowest point in the period in the first six months of 2001.
Korea submits that it is the complainants' position that a statistically insignificant increase in imports
in 2000 is not an "increase" for purposes of the Agreement on Safeguards when analysed both
quantitatively and qualitatively. Those imports were preceded by a deep decline and followed by adeeper decline.
1583
7.561 The United States affirms that the USITC foun d that imports of CCFRS increased both on an
absolute and a relative basis. The USITC focused its analysis on the surge in imports of CCFRS in
1998, the effects of that surge (which continued to reverberate throughout the remainder of the period
of investigation) and on the continuation of imports at elevated levels in 1999 and 2000. In absoluteterms, imports increased from 18.4 million short tons in 1996 to 20.9 million short tons in 2000. In
1998 there was a rapid and dramatic increase, with imports rising to 25.3 million short tons, an
increase of 37.5% over 1996 levels. While the volume of imports declined in 1999 and 2000, it
remained significantly higher in those years than at the beginning of the period of investigation.
1584
On a relative basis, imports rose from the equivalent of 10.0% of domestic production in 1996 to
10.5% in 2000.1585 1586
7.562 The European Communities also argues that the relative import finding is as flawed as the
determination for actual imports.1587 The European Communities, China and Korea submit that in
addition to ignoring the steady and significant decline since 1998, a 0.5% increase in the ratio in five
years is, also in Korea's and China's view1588, simply not sharp and significant enough to cause or
threaten to cause serious injury.1589 According to Brazil, this increase is nominal at best.1590 China
asserts that the relative increase during 1998 wa s quickly compensated the following year when
imports were back to normal. Ever since, imports in relative terms remained at levels which were
very close to those of 1996 and 1997.1591
7.563 As regards the degree of the relative increase in imports, the United States points out that an
increase in either absolute or relative import levels alone may satisfy Article 2.1 of the Agreement on
Safeguards.1592
7.564 In counter-response, Korea submits that if the language in Argentina – Footwear (EC) is to
mean something ( e.g., how much is "enough?")1593, then absolute and relative increases must be put
1582 China's first written submission, para. 247; Korea's first written submission, paras. 77-78.
1583 Korea's written reply to Panel question No. 14 at the second substantive meeting.
1584 USITC Report, pp. 49-50.
1585 USITC Report, p. 50.
1586 United States' first written submission, paras. 208-210.
1587 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 300-302.
1588 Korea's first written submission, paras. 84-85; China's second written submission, para. 107.
1589 China's second written submission, para. 107; European Communities' first written submission,
paras. 300-302; Korea's first written submission, paras. 84-85.
1590 Brazil's first written submission, para. 132.
1591 China's first written submission, paras. 242, 248.
1592 United States' first written submission, para. 217.
1593 United States' first written submission, para. 216.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 222
into context. The USITC, however, has not done so.1594 In fact imports as a percentage of production
have declined for the last two and a half years of the period of investigation and imports relative toproduction at the end of the period is the lowest of the entire period.
1595
(iii) The USITC's method of analysis
Trends
7.565 The European Communities recalls the USITC finding that imports increased "from
18.4 million short tons in 1996 to 20.9 million short tons in 2000, an increase of 13.7 percent".1596
The USITC also acknowledged that the "volume of imports declined in 1999 and 2000" from the peakin 1998
1597, and that this decrease continued, given that imports "declined from 11.5 million short tons
in interim 2000 to 6.9 million short tons in interim 2001".1598 The European Communities, Korea and
Japan contend that the USITC ignored the general me thodology of evaluating trends, suggested by the
Appellate Body in Argentina – Footwear (EC) , and that the situation for flat steel products closely
resembles the one already ruled out in that case as a sudden and recent increase in imports.1599 China
adds that if the USITC believed that the decreasing trend of imports did not prevent it from findingthat there were increased imports pursuant to Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards, it had to
give a reasoned and adequate explanation to support this finding and it did not do so by simply stating
that imports were still "significantly" higher in 1999 and 2000 than in 1996.
1600
7.566 The United States also rejects the assertion that the import trends in Argentina – Footwear
(EC) were the same as those for CCFRS in this case. In Argentina – Footwear (EC) , there was a
steady decline in imports for two years, following an increase earlier in the period of investigation.1601
Thus, it was possible to discern a declining trend. In this case, by contrast, there was a three-yearincrease in imports, with a dramatic surge in 1998, followed by a decline in imports from 1998 to
1999, but then there was levelling off and even a slight increase in 2000, which is no clear declining
trend.
1602 The United States submits that import levels in 1999 and 2000 remained well above pre-
surge levels and in fact rose slightly between 1999 and 2000. According to the United States, this
hardly constitutes a steady decline; rather, this pattern meets the definition of "is being imported in
such increased quantities" as that phrase was interpreted by the panel in US – Line Pipe .1603 1604
1594 Korea's first written submission, para. 118.
1595 Korea's first written submission, para. 119.
1596 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 49.
1597 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 50.
1598 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 49.
1599 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 294-297; Korea's first written submission,
para. 80; Japan's first written submission, paras. 195-196.
1600 China's first written submission, para. 244.
1601 The data in Argentina – Footwear (EC) were as follows:
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995
Total imports (million pair) 8.86 16.63 21.78 19.84 15.07
Relative Imports 12% 22% 33% 28% 25%
Source: Panel Report, Argentina – Footwear (EC) , paras. 8.151 and 8.273.
1602 United States' first written submission, para. 215.
1603 Panel Report, US – Line Pipe , para. 7.207.
1604 United States' second written submission, para. 105.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 223
7.567 The European Communities, Japan, Korea and Brazil respond that there is no basis to
conclude that imports had only temporarily and recently declined and remained at sharply increasedlevels, the basis for the finding of increased imports endorsed by the Panel in US – Line Pipe. The
data show a sustained 30-month period of decline, en ding with imports at the lowest level during the
entire five and a half year period investigated by the USITC.
1605 While one can argue the nuances of
Argentina – Footwear (EC), US – Line Pipe and US – Lamb, in fact there are no nuances in the import
data. The only increase in imports was a distant memory by the time the USITC initiated its
investigation.1606 Brazil adds that the United States has determined that CCFRS is being imported
into the United States in increased quantities desp ite the fact that imports are not only at the lowest
level during the entire period of investigation, but also substantially below the peak of 1998, and have
declined sharply over the last three semi-annual periods. Put simply, there is no factual support for a
determination of increased imports of CCFRS.1607
7.568 Japan adds further that the declining trend in the most recent period is even more pronounced
for flat-rolled steel imports actually subject to the safeguard measure - i.e. without the free trade areaand developing countries which were ultimately excluded from the measure. Japan argues that when
one removes excluded developing countries from the import trend analysis, it becomes even more
clear how unjustifiable the USITC's increased imports decision really was. Flat-rolled steel imports
remained constant, approximately 13.5 million tons in every year but 1998, before declining sharply
in 2001. Even under the USITC's flawed comparison of 1996 to 2000, flat-rolled steel importsactually subject to the safeguard measure increased an insignificant 253,884 tons, or 1.9%, for
combined flat-rolled products, and declined as a share of US production. The same pattern holds true
for hot-rolled, cold-rolled, and plate. Slab and corrosion-resistant steel imports reached their peak in
1999, before declining slightly in 2000 (corrosion-resistant steel imports declined from 1.43 million
tons to 1.37 million tons), and then declining sharply in 2001. Obvious beginning-to-end decreaseswere masked (such as with plate) by selection of the overly broad "flat" like product determination.
Moreover, the decreases are all the more apparent once excluded countries are removed from the
analysis. Absent imports from Canada and Mexico – both countries which shipped significantly high
volumes of flat products in every year between 1996 and 2000, but were excluded from the remedy
(in violation of the principle of parallelism, as s hown below) – and imports from developing countries
– whose shipments rose from nearly zero to signif icant numbers later in the period of investigation –
most perceivable increases no longer exist. Indeed, while imports actually subject to the safeguardmeasure show no trend of import increase to satisfy the requirement set forth under the Agreement on
Safeguards and Article XIX:1 of GATT 1994, the absolute volume increase in flat-rolled imports
from excluded developing countries over the 1996 to 2000 period was eight times the increase from
countries subject to the relief, yet they are not subject to the relief, because the United States excluded
them under Article 9.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards.
1608
End-point analysis
7.569 Brazil1609, China1610, the European Communities, Japan1611, Korea1612 and New Zealand1613
assert that the USITC compared the end points of 1996 and 2000 and made its increased imports
1605 Japan's second written submission, para. 97; Korea's first written submission, para. 114; Brazil's
first written submission, paras. 54-55; European Communities' second written submission, para. 200.
1606 Brazil's first written submission, para. 58.
1607 Brazil's written reply to Panel question No. 14 at the second substantive meeting.
1608 Japan's first written submission, paras. 205-206.
1609 Brazil's first written submission, paras. 129, 132.
1610 China's first written submission, paras. 243-244.
1611 Japan's first written submission, paras. 190, 195.
1612 Korea's first written submission, paras. 76, 78.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 224
finding although it had to recognize that the trends in the most recent period from 1998 to the first half
of 2001 evidenced a steady and continuous fall in imports. The European Communities, Japan, Koreaand New Zealand consider that even an end-point -to-end-point analysis for 1996-2000 only yields a
very modest increase of 13.7% over a five-year period, which is a not a "sharp", "sudden" or
"significant" increase.
1614 Moreover, the absolute increase of 2.66 million tons between 1996-2000
was entirely accounted for by the increase in imports of hot-rolled coil – 2.84 million tons – that were
subject to anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations in 1998 and 2000.1615 1616 Korea adds
that the USITC failed to properly note that hot-rolled accounted for the vast majority of the volume
increase in 1998 and the minor "increase" end-point to end-point was a function solely of hot-rolled
and slab imports. In fact, if imports of hot-rolled coil and slab are separated out of total imports of
flat-rolled, total imports were 6.8 million short tons in 1996, 6.9 million short tons in 1999, and 6.1
million short tons in 2000.1617 Japan adds that the increase could not have been "significant" when it
represented a mere 0.5% increase in imports as a share of production, especially when 38% of the
increase consisted of slab imported by the domestic industry itself.1618
7.570 In response to Japan's argument that the increase in CCFRS imports was not significant
because 38% of it consisted of slab, much of which was imported by the domestic industry, the United
States stresses that this argument is based on a simple end-points comparison. Japan's argument also
is premised on the erroneous assumption that imports by the domestic industry should not be
"counted".1619 The United States also argues that it is patently untrue that the USITC relied only on an
end-points analysis, comparing import levels in 1996 with those in 2000. It did not rely exclusively
on such observations to evaluate the increased imports. The USITC quite clearly considered
intervening years, focusing on the surge in imports in 1998, and the continuation of imports at
elevated levels in 1999 and 2000.1620
(iv) Consideration of 2001 data
7.571 The European Communities, Brazil, China1621 and New Zealand argue that the USITC
ignored the most recent 6-month period in its investigation, the first half of 2001. If the first half of
2001 is used as the end point, imports of flat-rolled products, both absolute and relative, are
significantly below 1996 levels.1622 Brazil and China1623 affirm that the data from the full year 2001
confirm that the sharp decline in flat-rolled imports continued in the second half of 2001. As a
percentage of domestic production, imports in 2001 were lower than at any point during the 1996-
2001 period, more than 2 percentage points below 2000 and almost two percentage points below1996. Remarkably, imports in 2001 were 10.5 million tons below peak 1998 levels and 3.5 million
tons below 1996 levels.
1624 New Zealand points out that the United States has itself recognized the
1613 New Zealand's first written submission, paras. 4.81, 4.84.
1614 European Communities' second written submission, para. 199; Japan's first written submission,
para. 195; Korea's first written submission, para. 76; New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.85-4.86.
1615 Respondents' Joint Prehearing Brief on Hot-Rolled Steel , Inv. No. TA-201-73 (11 September 2001)
("Respondents' Joint Prehearing Brief on Hot-Rolled "), Exhibit 4 (Exhibit CC-52) ("subject" hot-rolled imports
increased from 1.75 million tons in 1996 to 4.59 million tons in 2000).
1616 Korea's first written submission, para. 76.
1617 Korea's first written submission, para. 117.
1618 Japan's first written submission, para. 195.
1619 United States' first written submission, para. 219.
1620 United States' first written submission, para. 214.
1621 China's first written submission, paras. 240-241, 246.
1622 Brazil's first written submission, para. 132; New Zealand's first written submission, para. 4.84.
1623 China's first written submission, paras. 238-239.
1624 Brazil's first written submission, paras. 137-138.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 225
importance of interim 2001 data, explaining that the USITC gathers data for the interim period "so
that it will have information available to it on the most current period possible".1625 The problem is
that, having gathered the most recent available data, the USITC ignores its significance. Among other
things, this data showed that imports of CCFRS had declined by 40% and demand by 14.9%. Proper
attention to this data should have indicated to the USITC that an increased imports finding could not
be made, and that increased imports could not have been the cause of alleged serious injury to the
domestic industry.1626
(v) Consideration of decline in imports
7.572 Korea asserts that the USITC's analysis ignored the reason why imports declined – prevailing
anti-dumping and countervailing duty orders. In this case, the USITC was well aware of the reason
that imports declined and why that trend would continue for the foreseeable future.1627
7.573 The United States rejects Korea's contention that the USITC ignored the reason for the
decline in imports of CCFRS after 1998, namely anti-dumping and countervailing duty cases, and
affirms that the USITC addressed this in its analysis of causation.1628
(b) Tin mill products
(i) "Increased imports" within the meaning of the Agreement on Safeguards?
7.574 Brazil and, based on the import data relevant to the four commissioners who considered tin
mill products separately, China, Japan and Norway assert that the requisite sharp, recent, sudden, and
significant increase was not present, and the affirmative injury finding for tin mill products wasunjustified.
1629
7.575 The United States insists that the USITC Report contains an adequate, reasoned and
reasonable explanation of how the facts in the re cord support the determinations of three USITC
Commissioners that there were increased imports of tin mill, or in the case of Commissioners Bragg
and Devaney, of tin mill as part of a like product encompassing certain carbon and alloy flatproducts.
1630
7.576 Norway responds that, with regard to Commissioners Bragg and Devaney, according to the
figures presented by the United States, there is an increase from 1996 to a peak in 1998, but thereafter
a sharp decrease in 1999 which continues in 2000 – and with a new sharp decrease in interim 2001.
Norway submits that this is clearly a "steady and significant decline" in the "recent past", with full
year 2001 ending even lower than 1996.1631
7.577 The European Communities and Norway recall that the USITC made an increased imports
finding for tin mill products although it explicitly acknowledged that after a "peak level of 698,543
short tons" in 1999, imports "declined to 580,196 short tons in 2000" and were another "11.1 percent
1625 United States' first written submission, para 197; United States' written reply to Panel question No.
50 at the first substantive meeting, para 95.
1626 New Zealand's written reply to Panel question No. 15 at the second substantive meeting.
1627 Korea's first written submission, para. 81.
1628 United States' first written submission, paras. 209-220.
1629 Brazil's first written submission, para. 257; China's first written submission, para. 289; Japan's first
written submission, paras. 209-210; Norway's first written submission, paras. 263, 272, 273.
1630 United States' first written submission, para. 232.
1631 Norway's second written submission, para. 94.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 226
lower" in interim 2001 than in interim 2000.1632 The USITC also recognized that the ratio of imports
to domestic production had decreased from "20.1 percent during the import volume peak in 1999" to"17.4 percent in 2000".
1633 The USITC finally disclosed that the official import data used in its
discussion "overstate the imports subject to this investigation" due to prior product exclusions.1634 1635
7.578 China and the European Communities argue that the only increase of imports during the
review period was a surge in 1999, which is not recent enough to justify a safeguard measure.1636 In
addition, China and Norway point out that, subsequently, anti-dumping measures have led to a
substantial reduction of tin mill imports1637, which the USITC completely ignored.1638 Under no
circumstances can the United States claim that tin mill products continue being imported at increasedquantities until the very recent past. On the contrary, since 1999, actual imports of tin mill products
have declined sharply – by over 20%.
1639
7.579 According to the European Communities, at the time the President of the United States took
his decision to impose safeguard measures, full 2001 year data was available and confirmed that
imports of tin mill products had even receded back almost to pre-1998 levels.1640 The European
Communities submits that, similarly, the ratio of imports to domestic production has seen a steady and
continuous decline since 1999 through the year 2000 and into the interim 2001.1641 Brazil and Japan
confirm this observation for the imports from sources covered by the measure, particularly non-
NAFTA countries, which are the imports that matter given the requirement of parallelism between
injury and remedy.1642 China, the European Communities and Norway assert that such a situation,
that is a significant and steady decrease in imports since a midterm high both in actual numbers as
well as in relation to domestic production, has already been ruled out in Argentina – Footwear
(EC) .1643
7.580 The European Communities and Korea also argues that there was also no relative increase in
tin mill imports. The ratio of imports to domestic production peaked at a record 20.1% in 1999reflecting Weirton's business decision.
1644 This, however, can only be regarded as a temporary
occurrence, mostly instigated by the US domestic industry's own business decisions. Imports relative
to production sharply decreased to the 17% range in the year 2000 and in interim 2001.1645 Again,
this does not satisfy the "qualitative" increase requirement.1646
1632 USITC Report, Vol., I, p. 71.
1633 USITC Report, Vol.; I, p. 72.
1634 USITC Report, Vol.; I, p. 71, footnote 370.
1635 European Communities' first written submission, para. 359; Norway's first written submission,
para. 265.
1636 China's first written submission, para. 293.
1637 China's first written submission, para. 288; Norway's first written submission, para. 267.
1638 Norway's first written submission, para. 97.
1639 European Communities' first written submission, para. 360.
1640 European Communities' first written submission, para. 361.
1641 European Communities' first written submission, para. 363.
1642 Brazil's first written submission, para. 257; Japan's first written submission, para. 209.
1643 European Communities' first written submission, para. 363; China's first written submission,
para. 287; Norway's first written submission, para. 268.
1644 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 72 (Exhibit CC-6).
1645 Steel, Inv. No. TA-201-73, USITC Publication 3479 (December 2001), Volume II: Information
Obtained in the Investigation (Carbon and Alloy Steel Flat, Long and Tubular Products ) (USITC Report,
Vol. II) , Table FLAT-10, p. FLAT-14 (Exhibit CC-6).
1646 Korea's first written submission, para. 129.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 227
7.581 In response to the allegation that the USITC fail ed to show that the increase in imports that
did occur was sharp, recent, sudden and significant, the United States reiterates that the complainantsare applying an incorrect standard because Ar ticle 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards speaks of
whether there were imports "in such increased quantities … and under such conditions as to cause or
threaten to cause serious injury," and not whether imports were sharp, recent, sudden and significant
in the abstract.
1647
(ii) The USITC's method of analysis
7.582 China, Korea and Norway assert that the USITC's end points comparison and a comparison
between the first year of the period of investigation with the 1999 peak demonstrate an increase inimports, but that such an analysis does not consider the trends in imports.
1648
7.583 The United States asserts that there is no merit to the argument that the USITC relied only on
an end-points analysis, comparing import levels in 1996 with those in 2000. Commissioners Bragg
and Miller discussed import levels during the period of investigation, and in the interim periods, and
quite clearly focused on the increases in imports that occurred within the period ofinvestigation.
1649 1650
7.584 Korea and China argue that the United States should not be able to rely on the analysis of
Commissioners Bragg and Devaney, since their an alysis of increased imports was not based on tin
mill products, but on "certain carbon and alloy flat products including tin mill". Grouping tin mill
products with other products in a wide group of pr oducts ("certain carbon and alloy flat products")
prevented those Commissioners from making any useful analysis as far as tin mill products alone are
concerned.1651 However, China also notes that the analysis of the import trends for tin mill "as part of
a like product encompassing certain carbon and alloy flat products" also shows a clear declining trend
from 1999 to 2001.1652 1653
(iii) Requirement of reasoned and adequate explanation
7.585 China, the European Communities, Korea and Norway also argue that the temporary 1999
surge in imports was stimulated by a temporary business decision of the United States domestic
industry, more particularly, Weirton's decision to shut down a blast furnace and rely on imported
slabs.1654 The European Communities argues that if a one-time high in import levels was caused by
an exceptional business decision, the competent aut horities would need to explain how they can rely
on it although this condition is no longer given.1655 Brazil and Korea add that it is relevant that the
very industry seeking import relief brought about, and benefitted from significant parts of the
1647 United States' first written submission, para. 228.
1648 China first written submission, paras. 288, 290; Korea's first written submission, paras. 95, 98;
Norway's first written submission, para. 268.
1649 USITC Report, pp. 71-72 (Commissioner Miller); and p. 279 (Commissioner Bragg).
1650 United States' first written submission, para. 229.
1651 Korea's second written submission, paras. 122-123; China's second written submission, para. 126.
1652 United States' first written submission, para.223.
1653 China's second written submission, para. 127.
1654 European Communities' first written submission, para. 364; China's first written submission,
para. 292; Korea's first written submission, para. 96; Norway's first written submission, paras. 269 and 271.
1655 European Communities' written reply to Panel question No. 43 at the first substantive meeting.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 228
increase.1656 It would be ironic if a producer decided to increase imports and then turned around to
use that very increase as the basis for pursuing a safeguard action.1657
7.586 With regard to the complainants' argument that the surge in tin mill imports in 1999 occurred
in part because of Weirton's shutting down a blast furnace, the United States rejects the notion that
imports by the domestic industry should not be "counted" as increased imports.1658 The Agreement on
Safeguards does not treat imports that are attributable to domestic producers any differently than other
imports. Moreover, safeguards proceedings involve decisions about entire industries, not about
individual producers; and industries do not make such business decisions.1659
7.587 In response, Norway insists that if imports enter to replace a shortfall in domestic production,
this is a qualitative factor which is directly relevant to the issue of causation as well. Disregarding
these important elements in respect of the increase in imports, makes the whole increased import
analysis by the United States in breach of Article 2.1.1660 Korea adds that given the import changes
and the facts underlying such changes at issue, the competent authorities were under a particularly
strong obligation to make an assessment, both quanti tatively and qualitatively, as to the nature of the
increase in imports. The USITC did not conduct such an assessment.1661 China submits that the
increase in imports ceased in 2000, i.e. 18 months before the measure was taken. An increase in
imports that occurred 18 months ago and was followed by a decline in those imports cannot be
considered as being "recent enough" and "sudden enough".1662
7.588 The United States responds that the complainants do not divulge the reason for their certainty
that an increase which occurred 18 months ago is "insignificant". In fact, no such basis exists.
Neither Article XIX nor the Agreement on Safeguards specifies a period beyond which an increase in
imports is "insignificant". Certainly the Appellate Body in Argentina – Footwear (EC) did not
attempt to draw a line beyond which an increase in imports would be per se insignificant.1663
7.589 In the light of the intervening trends and other alternative explanations, the European
Communities and Norway assert that the USITC did not provide an adequate and reasoned
explanation why it could consider that imports continued being imported at sharply and recently
increased levels in the most recent past.1664
7.590 According to the United States, the assertion that the USITC failed to give adequate weight to
the decline in imports since 1999 is irrelevant to the extent that it is based on the views of USITC
Commissioners making negative determinations. Among the affirmative determinations, only
Commissioner Miller relied on the import data which the complainants cite, that is import data for tinmill alone. She recognized that, after surging in 1999, import volumes declined between 1999 and
1656 Korea's written reply to Panel question No. 43 at the first substantive meeting.
1657 Brazil's written reply to Panel question No. 43 at the first substantive meeting.
1658 United States' first written submission, para. 230.
1659 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 43 at the first substantive meeting, para. 89.
1660 Norway's second written submission, para. 97.
1661 Korea's first written submission, para. 128.
1662 China's second written submission, para. 125.
1663 United States' second written submission, para. 99.
1664 European Communities' first written submission, para. 365; Norway's first written submission,
para. 273.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 229
2000, and between the interim periods, and she explaine d why these declines were not decisive in her
causation analysis.1665 1666
7.591 Norway responds that the figures of Commissioner Miller (which are also a misrepresentation
as her figures include increases in excluded products1667) show an increase from 1996 to a peak in
1999, with a sharp decrease in 2000 and further declines in interim 2001. Norway submits that there
is also here clearly a "steady and significant decline" in the "recent past".1668
(iv) Relevance of the like product definition
7.592 Korea and Norway argue that the United States cannot lump together findings of increased
imports with respect to distinct like product groupings – flat-rolled and tin mill – to support a findingof increased imports of the more narrow like product – tin mill. The requirement of like product is
fundamental to a finding of increased imports. A mix and match approach as adopted by the United
States suggests that any combination of legal findings, even if they are inconsistent, is insufficient and
presents a clear violation of the Agreement on Safeguards.
1669 The Appellate Body made clear in US
– Line Pipe that legally consistent decisions with resp ect to the requirements of the Agreement on
Safeguards (serious injury and threat of serious injury) are permitted.1670 However, legally
inconsistent decisions based on different definitions of imported products are not.1671
(c) Hot-rolled bar
(i) "Increased imports" within the meaning of the Agreement on Safeguards?
7.593 China and the European Communities contend that the USITC failed to determine and justify
that the increase in imports was recent enough, sudden enough, sharp enough and significant
enough.1672 In China's view, the USITC also addressed the wrong question when it stated that imports
showed a dramatic and rapid increase in 2000, sin ce "rapid and dramatic" is much less explicit than
"recent, sudden, sharp and significant enough"1673 and was not the vocabulary chosen by the Appellate
Body1674, who has the mandate of clarifying the provisions of the WTO Agreement.
7.594 The United States insists that the USITC Report contains an adequate, reasoned and
reasonable explanation of how the facts in the reco rd support the USITC's determination that there
were increased imports. The USITC noted that imports were higher, both in absolute terms and
relative to United States production, in 2000 than in any prior year of the period examined and
showed a rapid and dramatic increase from 1999. While imports declined in the interim period
comparison, the ratio of imports to United States production in interim 2001 was higher than that for
1665 The European Communities claims that the ratio of imports to domestic production declined in
interim 2001. European Communities' first written submission, para. 362. In fact, relative import levels werehigher in interim 2001 (at 17.7%) than in interim 2000 (when they were 17.1%). USITC Report, p. 72footnote 373.
1666 United States' first written submission, para. 231.
1667 See USITC Report, Vol. 1, at footnote 370 (Exhibit CC-6).
1668 Norway's second written submission, para. 94.
1669 Korea's first written submission, para. 123; Norway's second written submission, para. 94.
1670 Appellate Body Report, US – Line Pipe , paras. 168-170.
1671 Korea's first written submission, para. 124.
1672 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 315-316; China's first written submission,
para. 255.
1673 China's written reply to Panel question No. 45 at the first substantive meeting.
1674 China's first written submission, para. 255.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 230
the first three years of the period examined, and was only three-tenths of a percentage point below the
1999 level.1675 1676
7.595 In response to China's and the European Communities' contention that there are neither facts
nor explanations justifying a determination that hot-rolled bar is being imported at recently, sharply
and significantly increased quantities, the United States points out that first, the import data which the
USITC analysed on a year-to-year basis show substantial increases. As the US – Line Pipe Panel
explained, it is not necessary to find that imports are still increasing up to the very end of the period of
investigation.1677 Second, the appropriate consideration under the Agreement on Safeguards is not
whether imports have increased "recently, sharply and significantly" in the abstract. The USITCsatisfied the standard set out in Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards when it first focused on
increased imports and subsequently found injury and a causal link.
1678
7.596 The European Communities responds that the United States cannot rely on the ruling of the
Panel in US – Line Pipe in its defence. The Panel in that case only upheld the increased imports
finding given that there was an explicit finding that import levels remained at increased levels which
the USITC has not demonstrated.1679
7.597 China further argues that the increase in imports of hot-rolled bar was not recent because the
sharpest increase, both in absolute and relative terms, occurred in 1998, and the USITC also failed to
recognize a decline in imports that started in 2000 and lasted until the end of the period of
investigation.1680
7.598 As regards China's argument regarding a decline in imports that "started in 2000 and lasted
until the end of the period of investigation", the United States rejects this attempt to carve up the
investigation period to achieve a desired result. The United States further submits that the Agreement
on Safeguards does not specify how the period of investigation should be broken down.1681 With
regard to the argument that increased imports were not recent, China overlooks the fact that importswere at their highest level (both in absolute and relative terms) in 2000; and that there were significant
increases in the last year-to-year comparison from 1999 to 2000.
1682
7.599 China responds that a sharp increase that occurred in 1998 cannot be considered as being
"recent" anymore and subsequent imports cannot be characterized as being "sharp".1683
(ii) Consideration of 2001 data
7.600 The European Communities asserts that the USITC acknowledged but disregarded a sharp
decrease both in absolute terms and relative to domestic production in the first half of 2001, that is themost recent and decisive part of the investigation period.
1684 By the time the President imposed the
safeguard measures, the available full 2001 year import data revealed a 32% decrease in imports
1675 China's first written submission, para. 255.
1676 United States' first written submission, paras. 235 and 246.
1677 Panel Report, US – Line Pipe , para. 7.204.
1678 United States' first written submission, paras. 239-241.
1679 European Communities' second written submission, para. 203.
1680 China's first written submission, paras. 258-262.
1681 United States' first written submission, para. 244.
1682 United States' first written submission, para. 245.
1683 China's first written submission, para. 114.
1684 USITC Report, Vol. I., p. 92.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 231
compared to 2000.1685 Even if the 2.6 percentage difference between 1999 and 2000 could be seen as
a recent increase, it was certainly neither sharp nor significant, but part of a slight and gradualincrease at steps between 1.1 and 2.6%, which was then compensated in interim 2001 when the ratio
fell back to 24.6%.
1686
7.601 The United States rejects the European Communities' argument based on full-year 2001 data,
because full-year 2001 data were not, and should not be, considered. 1687
(iii) The USITC's method of analysis
7.602 China argues that the USITC failed to evaluate the rate and amount of increased imports in
absolute and relative terms, and to consider trends, and that it was not enough for the USITC tosimply state the import data for each year of the period of investigation.
1688
7.603 The United States disagrees with China on the question whether it was not enough for the
USITC to "simply state the import data for each year without evaluating the rate and amount of
increased imports in absolute and relative terms". The USITC noted where the imports increased and
where they decreased. The United States submits that the Agreement on Safeguards does not requirethat competent authorities characterize the data in certain ways. It also does not require competent
authorities to intone specific terminology not contained in the Agreement.
1689 Since under Article 3.2
of the DSU, a dispute settlement report cannot add to a Member's obligations under the covered
agreement, the Appellate Body's use of a particular phrase cannot obligate competent authorities to
use the same phrase.1690
(d) Cold-finished bar
(i) "Increased imports" within the meaning of the Agreement on Safeguards?
7.604 The European Communities notes that the alleged recent surge in imports was a one-year
micro-development immediately compensated for by a decrease in 2001. By the time the President of
the United States took his decision, the full 2001 data was available and demonstrated that thedeclining trend, that was already signalled by the interim 2001 data, proved to be a steady and
significant decrease in imports back to levels even below 1998.
1691
7.605 The United States rejects the European Communities' characterization of the data on absolute
import levels as "a one-year micro-development immediately compensated by a decrease in 2001".
First, full-year 2001 data were not, and should not be, considered, for reasons previously articulated
by the United States. Second, it is simply not accurate to call a 33.6% increase in imports in one year,
that follows on the heels of increases in two out of the preceding three years, "a one-year micro-development".
1692
7.606 In relation to relative imports the European Communities considers that there is no
justification why a mere 6% increase in the ratio between imports and domestic production could be
1685 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 311-312.
1686 European Communities' first written submission, para. 315.
1687 United States' first written submission, paras. 239-241.
1688 China's first written submission, paras. 253, 254 and 256.
1689 United States' first written submission, para. 242.
1690 United States' written reply to Panel question No. 45 at the first substantive meeting, para. 91.
1691 United States' first written submission, paras. 319-320.
1692 United States' first written submission, para. 252.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 232
seen as a sudden, sharp and significant surge in imports that is capable of causing injury to a domestic
industry, in particular, since actual impor ts already showed a manifest decrease.1693
7.607 As regards relative import levels, the United States insists that the 6.7 percentage point
increase in relative import levels from 1999 to 2000 (from 17.0 to 23.7%) was, in fact, very
significant. The United States submits that the European Communities' attempt to discount this
increase by pointing to a decline in absolute import levels is unpersuasive, given that an increase in
either absolute or relative import levels alone may satisfy Article 2.1 of the Agreement on
Safeguards.1694
7.608 The European Communities responds that the United States has effectively admitted that the
absolute import levels were not sufficient and that it solely relies on the relative import developments.
Therefore, the European Communities asks the Panel to find that imports did not increase in actual
numbers.1695 As to relative imports, the United States did not explain why the mere 6% increase in
relative imports in 2000 (out of a one-year dip in 1999) combined with the countertrend in actual
imports in 2001 could still justify a finding of cold bar being imported in extra-ordinarily increasedquantities; and the European Communities asks the Panel to dismiss the relative increased imports
finding for this product.
1696
(ii) Requirement of reasoned and adequate explanation
7.609 The European Communities asserts that the facts and explanations provided by the United
States authorities do not justify a determination that cold-finished bar is being imported in recently,sharply and significantly increased quantities.
1697
7.610 The United States argues that the USITC Report contains an adequate, reasoned and
reasonable explanation of how the facts in the reco rd support the USITC's determination that there
were increased imports of cold-finished bar.
(e) Rebar
(i) "Increased imports" within the meaning of the Agreement on Safeguards?
7.611 China and the European Communities argue that the facts and explanations provided by the
USITC do not justify a determination that rebar is being imported at recently, sharply and
significantly increased quantities.1698
7.612 The United States insists that the USITC Report contains an adequate, reasoned and
reasonable explanation of how the facts in the record supported the USITC's determination with
respect to increased imports. The USITC analysed the surge in imports in 1999 and the continuedhigh levels of imports in 2000 in the context of th eir ability to cause serious injury. China's argument
that the USITC failed to determine whether the increase in imports of rebar was "recent enough,
sudden enough, sharp enough and significant enough" is premised on an incorrect standard.
1693 European Communities' first written submission, para. 321.
1694 United States' first written submission, para. 254.
1695 European Communities' first written submission, para. 207.
1696 European Communities' second written submission, para. 208.
1697 European Communities' first written submission, para. 322.
1698 China's first written submission, para. 268; European Communities' first written submission,
para. 328.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 233
7.613 The United States further stresses that the USITC recognized that imports had declined
between 1999 and 2000, and between the interim periods, and it explained why these declines werenot decisive to its analysis. Competent authorities are not required to articulate an intricate trends
analysis.
1699
7.614 In response, China insists that, under the Agreement on Safeguards, as interpreted by the
Appellate Body in Argentina – Footwear (EC) , import data must be characterized in a certain way,
i.e. as being "sudden enough, sharp enough, recent enough and significant enough".1700
7.615 China and the European Communities argue that the USITC failed to take into account the
decline in rebar imports in 2000 and 2001.1701 Taking a safeguard measure despite a significant
decrease in imports would be tantamount to claiming self defence when shooting at an aggressor who
is already running away, i.e., where the danger is no longer imminent.1702
7.616 With regard to the European Communities' conten tions, the United States reiterates that full-
year 2001 data were not, and should not be, cons idered. Furthermore, the USITC observed that,
despite the declines from 1999 to 2000, and between interim 2000 and interim 2001, imports in 2000and in interim 2001 were nonetheless at levels that were substantially higher than in earlier years of
the period of investigation before 1999.
1703
7.617 The European Communities counter-responds that the annualised interim 2001 data show that
both, actual and relative imports have decreased significantly in the first part of 2001. The United
States cannot rely on the ruling in US – Line Pipe because there are no facts and an adequate and
reasoned explanations that imports "remained" at increased levels.1704
(ii) The USITC's method of analysis
7.618 China argues that the USITC did not satisfy the requirement that it consider the rate and
amount of the relative and absolute increase in imports and the trends by simply stating the import
data for each year of the period of investigations.1705
7.619 The European Communities also argues that the observation that imports were higher in 2000
than in 1996 is irrelevant because it is merely based on an end-point-to-end-point comparison. The
European Communities submits that recent absolute import levels are irrelevant if the most recent
trend shows a decrease in imports.1706
7.620 The United States also argues that the USITC's analysis was hardly based on a simple end-
points comparison. In this regard, the European Communities overlooks the fact that the USITC also:
(i) compared 2000 import levels to those in 1998 (and found that 2000 imports were 35.8% higher);(ii) compared interim 2001 imports levels to 1996 and 1997 (and found that imports in the first six
months of 2001 exceeded full-year levels in 1996 and 1997); and (iii) compared the relative import
1699 United States' first written submission, para. 265.
1700 China's first written submission, para. 116.
1701 China's first written submission, para. 271; European Communities' first written submission,
paras. 323-328.
1702 European Communities' first written submission, para. 327.
1703 United States' first written submission, para. 262.
1704 European Communities' second written submission, paras. 210-211.
1705 China's first written submission, paras. 266-267.
1706 European Communities' first written submission, para. 327.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 234
ratio in interim 2001 to 1996, 1997 and 1998 (and found that it was higher than in any of those prior
years).1707
7.621 Finally, according to the United States, it is not true that recent absolute import levels are
irrelevant if the most recent trend shows a decrease in imports, as the European Communities argues.
Article 4.2(a) does not focus on trends to the exclusion of the amount of imports and it is not
necessary that imports be increasing up to the very end of the period of investigation.1708
(f) Welded pipe
(i) "Increased imports" within the meaning of the Agreement on Safeguards?
7.622 The European Communities argues that, although imports have not decreased in the most
recent past, the USITC failed to show that the increases in imports of welded pipe were "sudden,
sharp and significant". The USITC's consideration that the "24.2 percent" increase in quantity "was
the largest annual percentage increase of the period examined" and that imports "continued at a very
high level in interim 2001"1709 as well as the reference to a large increase in the ratio to domestic
production at the end of the period examined1710 is, submits the European Communities, not
sufficient.1711
7.623 The European Communities and Switzerland argue that because imports of welded pipe
increased steadily throughout the period of investigation, the increase was not "sudden, sharp and
significant". A safeguard measure may not be used to protect the industry against a gradual and
therefore adjustable increase in imports.1712
7.624 According to Switzerland, even if the Panel finds that the 24.2% increase in imports in 2000
was recent and sharp enough, the United States failed to provide an adequate and reasonable
explanation of how the facts in the report support it s findings and to demonstrate the relevance of the
factors examined.1713 The European Communities adds that absent such explanation, which cannot be
cured in the dispute settlement proceedings, the Panel cannot and should not determine whether theexisting increase is sufficient to meet the WTO standard.
1714
7.625 Switzerland admits that imports of welded tubular products have increased during the period
of investigation. However, there must be an extraordinary and abnormal surge in imports as stated in
the first safeguard measure adjudicated by the GATT in the US – Fur Felt Hats case. A gradual
increase in imports is the very purpose of trade liberalization between WTO members. A gradual
increase can, therefore, not be substantial enough to trigger an emergency action like the imposition of
a safeguard measure.1715 The United States omits to say that in 1999 the imports decreased by 6.4%
that the increase of almost 25% in 2000 is based on the comparison with 1999 figures, that is after
there had been a decrease, and not on the comparison with 1998 figures where the increase would
have been less important, for after a decrease, an increase to the previous level gives automatically a
1707 United States' first written submission, para. 263.
1708 United States' first written submission, para. 264.
1709 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 157.
1710 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 158.
1711 European Communities' first written submission, para. 332.
1712 European Communities' first written submission, para. 335; Switzerland's first written submission,
paras. 253-254.
1713 Switzerland's first written submission, para. 256.
1714 European Communities' first written submission, para. 337.
1715 Switzerland's first written submission, para. 71.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 235
higher percentage of increase. The higher percentage increase in 2000 is due to a statistical effect.
Another interesting development is that from 1996 to 1998 imports have increased by almost 44%compared to an increase of only 16 per cent during the period 1998-2000. However, the United States
did not take any safeguard measure at the time wh en imports were more important that is during
1996-1998.
7.626 The United States claims that the USITC Report contains an adequate, reasoned and
reasonable explanation of how the facts in the reco rd support the USITC's determination that there
were increased imports of welded pipe. The European Communities misstates the standard under
Article 2.1 of the Agreement on Safeguards when ar guing that the USITC failed to show that the
increases in imports of welded pipe were "sudden and sharp". For the same reasons, the United States
rejects Switzerland's argument that because imports of welded pipe increased steadily throughout the
period of investigation, the increase was not "sudden, sharp and significant". The United States also
insists that the import data, and their link to the threat of serious injury to the domestic industry, are
described in the USITC Report in a clear and straightforward manner.
1716
7.627 The European Communities responds that the United States does not indicate where in its
Report the USITC has provided a quantitative analysis of import developments showing that there has
been an abnormal and unexpected change in import levels as opposed to the continuation of a
perfectly foreseen gradual and adjustable rise in imports.1717
(ii) The USITC's method of analysis
7.628 The European Communities submits that the USITC has also failed to provide annual
percentage increases and to evaluate all the trends in actual and relative imports by comparing their
increases and decreases over the period of investigation.1718
(g) FFTJ
7.629 The European Communities argues that the USITC Report does not contain an adequate and
reasoned explanation, based on a complete evaluation of import trends over the entire period of
examination for each of the specific products grouped into this broad category, of why the steady
development described by the USITC fulfils the very high and exacting standard of import surges that
are sharp and significant enough so as to cause serious injury or a threat thereof for each of the
specific products it grouped together in its mix of heterogeneous products.1719
7.630 The United States contends that, in arguing th at the increase in imports was steady, rather
than sharp and significant, the European Communities again applies the wrong standard. TheAgreement on Safeguards requires an evaluation of whether there were imports "in such increased
quantities … and under such conditions as to cause or threaten to cause serious injury", and the
USITC satisfied this standard when it first focused on increased imports and subsequently found
injury and a causal link.
1720
7.631 For the counter-responses of the European Communities, see section F.4c(i).
1716 United States' first written submission, paras. 276, 272-273, 274.
1717 European Communities' first written submission, para. 214.
1718 European Communities' first written submission, para. 334.
1719 European Communities' first written submission, para. 344.
1720 United States' first written submission, para. 282; United States' written reply to Panel question No.
42 at the first substantive meeting, para. 85.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 236
(h) Stainless steel bar
7.632 The European Communities states that it fails to see a reasoned explanation of how the facts
can support a finding of a recent, sudden, sharp and significant surge. The European Communities
challenges the USITC's finding of increased imports because what might at first glance appear to be
an upward trend between 1999 and 2000 was a mere blip, i.e., a one year peak in imports which
immediately returned to normal levels in 2001. The USITC itself acknowledged that absolute import
numbers decreased in the first half of 2001. At the time the US President took his decision, the full
year 2001 data confirmed the significant and enduring plunge in imports.1721
7.633 The United States insists that the USITC Report contains an adequate, reasoned and
reasonable explanation of how the facts in the reco rd support the USITC's determination that there
were increased imports of stainless steel bar. The United States submits that the Panel should not be
misled by the characterization by the European Communities of the rise in imports in 2000 as "a mere
blip". As regards the decline in imports in 2001 to which the European Communities points, the
United States reiterates that full-year 2001 data were not, and should not be, considered. According tothe United States, it is readily apparent from the data that the increase in imports in 2000 was sharp
and substantial.
1722
7.634 The European Communities responds that even on the basis of interim 2001 data, the sharp
decrease in actual imports compensating the earlier increase must have been obvious to the USITC
and required a particularly convincing explanation why imports remained at increased volumes.1723
(i) Stainless steel wire
(i) "Increased imports" within the meaning of the Agreement on Safeguards?
7.635 China and the European Communities contend that the USITC failed to determine whether
the absolute and relative increase in imports was recent enough, sudden enough, sharp enough and
significant enough, and failed to correctly evaluate the rate and amount of the increase in imports andto correctly consider the trends in imports.
1724
7.636 In response to the contention that the USITC failed to determine whether the increase in
imports was recent enough, sudden enough, sharp enough and significant enough, the United States
reiterates that there are no absolute standards for how recent, sudden, sharp or significant an increase
in imports must be.1725
7.637 The European Communities also argues that the increase observed in the period 1999-2000
was merely the flip side of a sharp decrease in imports in 1999.1726 Also in relative terms, the 2000
increase in imports was a "blip development" not resulting in abnormal import levels. There is also
no adequate and reasoned explanation for how these facts support a conclusion that the micro-
1721 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 348, 349, 351.
1722 United States' first written submission, paras. 287-288.
1723 European Communities' second written submission, para. 220.
1724 China's first written submission, paras. 302-303; European Communities' first written submission,
para. 372.
1725 United States' first written submission, para. 316.
1726 USITC Report, Vol. I, p. 235.WT/DS248/R, WT/DS249/R,
WT/DS251/R, WT/DS252/R,
WT/DS253/R, WT/DS254/R,
WT/DS258/R, WT/DS259/R
Page 237
development between 1999 and 2000 was an abnormal, sudden and sharp increase in imports
threatening serious injury.1727
7.638 According to the United States, the European Communities' characterization of the 2000
increase as a "blip development" is not borne out by the facts and overlooks the fact that two of the
USITC Commissioners making affirmative determinations found a threat of serious injury. In doing
so, they focused not only on the increase in imports in 2000, but particularly on conditions in interim
2001.1728 Chairman Koplan noted the rapid increase in relative import levels in interim 2001.1729
Commissioner Bragg noted the increase in absolute import levels in 2000, and the fact that thesedeclined only slightly between interim 2000 and interim 2001.
1730 Commissioner Devaney noted that
the quantity of imports increased in 2000, an d remained steady between the interim periods.1731
7.639 The European Communities responds that the references to extracts from the causation
analysis are irrelevant and do not contain the required quantitative analysis of the increase in imports.
Nowhere in the analysis of Chairman Koplan (who was the only one looking at stainless steel wire as
a separate product) is there any explanation why relative import levels can be seen as abnormal andthe Agreement on Safeguards does not permit safeguard measures to be taken against threat of
imports, but only after imports have actually or relatively increased.
1732
(ii) The USITC's method of analysis and the requirement of a reasoned and adequate explanation
7.640 China argues that the USITC failed to consider the rate and amount of increased imports in
absolute and relative terms and the trends.1733 China also asserts that the upward trend in imports was
very smooth and, thus, the USITC was wrong in considering the increase from 1999 to 2000 apart
from the rest of the period of investigation. In any event, the USITC did not provide any reasoned
and adequate explanation concerning the trends in imports.1734
7.641 The United States insists that the USITC Report contains an adequate, reasoned and
reasonable explanation of how the facts in the reco rd support the USITC's determination that there
were increased imports of stainless steel wire.1735 China's assertion that the USITC's analysis of the
import trends was deficient because the upward trend in imports was "smooth", and the USITC failed
to explain the trend in imports is without meri t. The USITC Commissioners making affirmative
determinations described the import data in a deta iled and straightforward fashion. They noted the
increases in imports, especially over the interim periods.1736 China's arguments regarding increased
imports are based only on the data considered by Chairman Koplan who defined the like product as
stainless steel wire, but do not address the analysis of increased imports performed by the other twoCommissioners who made affirmative determinations based on broader product categories.
1727 European Communities' first written submission, paras. 369-371; European Communities' written
reply to Panel question No. 44 at the first substantive meeting.
1728 As the Appellate Body recognized in US – Lamb, para. 137, because of the future-oriented analysis
involved in a threat determination, it is esp ecially important to focus on more recent data.
1729 USITC Report, pp. 256-259.
1730 USITC Report, p. 280.
1731 USITC Report, p. 343.
1732 European Communities' second written submission, paras. 230-233.
1733 China's first written submission, para. 299.
1734 China's first written submission, para. 301.
1735 United States' first written submission, para. 317.
1736 United States' first written submission, para. 315.
| 45,434 | 302,361 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_S_C_M67.pdf
|
S_S_C_M67
|
RESTRICTEDORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOS/C/M/67
17 de septiembre de 2003
(03-4977)
Consejo del Comercio de Servicios
INFORME DE LA REUNIÓN CELEBRADA
LOS DÍAS 3 Y 7 DE JULIO DE 2003
Nota de la Secretaría1
1. El Consejo del Comercio de Servicios celebró una reunión los días 3 y 7 de julio de 2003
presidida por el Embajador Ousmane Camara (Senegal). El orden del día de esta reunión figura en el
aerograma WTO/AIR/2126.
2. El Presidente comunicó al Consejo su intenc ión de hacer bajo el punto "Otros asuntos" una
declaración acerca del Programa de Trabajo sobre el Comercio Electrónico. Sugirió que se adoptara
el orden del día distribuido con la adición, bajo "Otros asuntos", de la declaración que acababa de
mencionar.
3. Así quedó acordado.
A. INFORMES ANUALES DE 2002 DE LOS ÓRGANOS SUBSIDIARIOS AL CONSEJO
DEL COMERCIO DE SERVICIOS - ACTUALIZACIÓN
4. El Presidente señaló que, de conformidad con la Decisión relativa a las disposiciones
institucionales para el AGCS, los órganos auxiliares del Consejo le rendirían informe una vez al año o
con mayor frecuencia si fuera necesario. En febrero de 2003 el Consejo General acordó actualizar su
informe anual en preparación del quinto período de sesiones de la Conferencia Ministerial, lo que a su
vez hizo necesario que el Consejo actualizara su informe anual, al que se adjuntaban los
cuatro informes de los órganos auxiliares. En este sentido, señaló a la atención del Consejo las
actualizaciones de estos informes anuales recientemente adoptados por el Comité de CompromisosEspecíficos (S/CSC/8), el Grupo de Trabajo so bre la Reglamentación Nacional (S/WPDR/5), el
Grupo de Trabajo sobre las Normas del AGCS (S/W PGR/12) y, mediante procedimiento escrito, el
Comité del Comercio de Servicios Financieros (S/FIN/9). Propuso que el Consejo tomara nota de
estos informes en el entendimiento de que se adjuntarían al informe actualizado del Consejo y
formarían parte integrante del mismo.
5. El Consejo tomó nota.
B. INFORME ANUAL DE 2002 DEL CONSEJO DEL COMERCIO DE SERVICIOS AL
CONSEJO GENERAL - ACTUALIZACIÓN
6. Por los motivos que había indicado en el punto anterior, el Presidente señaló a la atención del
Consejo un proyecto de actualización del informe anual del Consejo contenido en el documento
S/C/W/227. Recordó que los informes de los órganos auxiliares, de los que el Consejo acababa de
tomar nota, se adjuntarían al informe actualizado del Consejo.
1 El presente documento ha sido elaborado bajo la res ponsabilidad de la Secretaría y sin perjuicio de las
posiciones de los Miembros ni de sus derechos y obligaciones en el marco de la OMC.S/C/M/67
Página 2
7. Así quedó acordado.
C. REAPERTURA DEL QUINTO PROTOCOLO PARA SU ACEPTACIÓN POR POLONIA
8. El Presidente señaló a la atención del Consej o la comunicación recibida de la delegación de
Polonia, contenida en el documento S/C/W/225, en la que se solicitaba la reapertura del Quinto
Protocolo relativo a los servicios financieros. A ese respecto, señaló asimismo a la atención delConsejo un proyecto de Decisión para su consideración contenido en el documento S/C/W/226.
Preguntó si una reapertura de un mes sería conveniente para la delegación de Polonia.
9. La representante de Polonia recordó que su delegación había informado al Comité del
Comercio de Servicios Financieros de que Polonia había concluido los procedimientos nacionales
para la aceptación del Quinto Protocolo, y que había ratificado ese Protocolo el 7 de abril de 2003.
Polonia solicitaba al Consejo la reapertura del Quinto Protocolo para su aceptación. La oradora
subrayó que se habían facilitado a la Secretaría todos los instrumentos necesarios para la aceptación, yque Polonia estaba en condiciones de proceder a la aceptación en la fecha de la Decisión del Consejo.
En cuanto a la duración de la reapertura, su delegación se ponía en manos del Presidente.
10. La representante de los Estados Unidos acogió con satisfacción la ratificación del Quinto
Protocolo por Polonia, y solicitó confirmación respecto de la duración de la reapertura.
11. La representante de Polonia reiteró que su país podía formular la aceptación ese mismo día,
pero que se mostraba flexible teniendo en cuenta consideraciones administrativas.
12. El Presidente propuso que el Consejo del Comercio de Servicios adoptara el proyecto de
Decisión contenido en el documento S/C/W/226, c on indicación en el ultimo párrafo de que el
Protocolo permanecería abierto para su aceptación por la República de Polonia hasta el 4 de agosto
de 2003.
13. Así quedó decidido.
D. PROPUESTAS RELATIVAS A UN EXAMEN TÉCNICO DE LAS DISPOSICIONES
DEL AGCS - PÁRRAFO 2 DEL ARTÍCULO XX
14. El Presidente recordó que, en la última reunión formal del Consejo, los Miembros habían
continuado su debate de este punto sobre la base de comunicaciones recientes del Brasil; Suiza y
Hong Kong, China. En el curso de ese debate varias delegaciones sugirieron que el Presidente
celebrara consultas con miras a centrar la labor del Consejo sobre este punto. Con este propósito,
había convocado una reunión informal para debatir el siguiente paso del procedimiento. En esa
reunión se sugirió que el debate sobre este punto se abordara en el Comité de Compromisos
Específicos y varias delegaciones expresaron su apoyo a esta sugerencia. La opinión general fue que
acerca de la labor sobre este punto convendría celebrar un debate técnico por un plazo limitado en el
Comité de Compromisos Específicos y que el Consejo considerara una propuesta en este sentido en lapresente reunión.
15. El representante del Canadá deseaba recordar algunas declaraciones hechas por su delegación
en una ocasión anterior. La postura del Canadá sobre el fondo ya había sido expuesta en reuniones
anteriores. Por lo que se refiere al siguiente paso del procedimiento, se habían expresado distintas
opiniones en cuanto a si esta cuestión planteaba un problema, necesitaba una solución y cuálespodrían ser las posibles vías para alcanzarla. Quizá fuera conveniente examinar el marco, los
principios y las disposiciones de los Acuerdos de la OMC que pudieran orientar el ejercicio.
La cuestión planteada era la interpretación del párrafo 2 del artículo XX del AGCS y, en
consecuencia, convenía guiarse por el párrafo 2 del artículo IX del Acuerdo sobre la OMC, queS/C/M/67
Página 3
abordaba cuestiones relacionadas con la interpretación de los Acuerdos vigentes. En ese párrafo se
establecía que la Conferencia Ministerial y el Consejo General tendrían la facultad exclusiva de
adoptar interpretaciones del Acuerdo sobre la OMC y de los Acuerdos Comerciales Multilaterales, y
que ejercerían dicha facultad sobre la base de una recomendación del Consejo encargado de
supervisar el funcionamiento de ese Acuerdo, que en este caso era el Consejo del Comercio deServicios. En este contexto, cualquier examen y las posibles conclusiones y soluciones dimanantes de
éste deberían remitirse en la forma prescrita y de conformidad con el párrafo 2 del artículo IX a la
Conferencia Ministerial o al Consejo General. Por lo tanto, era importante que el Consejo del
Comercio de Servicios actuara de manera que no se prejuzgara el párrafo 2 del artículo IX del
Acuerdo por el que se Establece la OMC.
16. El Presidente propuso que el Consejo tomara nota de las declaraciones hechas y remitiera este
punto al Comité de Compromisos Específicos para su consideración, en el entendimiento de que el
Comité rendiría informe sobre este punto para su examen en la primera reunión que el Consejo
celebrara en 2004.
17. Así quedó acordado.
E. APLICACIÓN DEL ARTÍCULO VII DEL AGCS
18. El Presidente dijo que este punto había sido incluido en el orden del día a petición de la
delegación de la India. Señaló a la atención del Consejo una comunicación de la India relativa a la
aplicación del artículo VII del AGCS contenida en el documento JOB(03)/120.
19. El representante de la India, presentando la comunicación contenida en el documento
JOB(03)/120, dijo que su finalidad era estimular el debate sobre la aplicación del artículo VII del
AGCS. El objetivo principal de la comunicación era examinar la medida en que los Miembros habían
cumplido sus obligaciones en virtud del artículo VII y estudiar formas de subsanar cualquier
deficiencia a la hora de cumplir esas obligaciones. Recordó que su delegación había solicitado que la
Secretaría confeccionara una lista de todas las notificaciones presentadas por los Miembros de
conformidad con el artículo VII del AGCS, y que es a lista se había distribuido en la reunión del
Consejo del Comercio de Servicios en Sesión Extraordinaria que se celebró el 26 de febrero de 2003.Parecía resaltar ciertas deficiencias en lo relativo a esas notificaciones. El orador afirmó que el hecho
de que solamente dos de esos acuerdos se hubieran notificado en los tres últimos años probablemente
indicaba que no todos los acuerdos pertinentes habían sido notificados por los Miembros. Dijo que
podía considerarse que algunos de estos acuerdos no se habían notificado porque se entendía que
habían sido suscritos entre órganos profesionales privados, y que en consecuencia no eran medidas de
la incumbencia del AGCS. Sin embargo, el representante pensaba que podría ser necesario examinar
más a fondo si esos órganos profesionales ejercían facultades delegadas por gobiernos federales oestatales para llevar a cabo el proceso de reconocimiento de calificaciones profesionales. En el caso
de que existieran esas facultades delegadas, su delegación consideraba que quedarían comprendidas
en las medidas gubernamentales y deberían ser notificadas de conformidad con el artículo VII del
AGCS. Señaló además que la compilación de la Secretaría indicaba que todas las notificaciones
pertinentes habían sido notificaciones post facto y que aparentemente no informaban con antelación
de la iniciación de negociaciones sobre esos acuerdos. Esto daba lugar a dudas sobre si se habían
brindado oportunidades adecuadas a los demás Miembros para negociar su adhesión a tales acuerdos
o para negociar otros comparables. Su delegación creía que esas oportunidades eran vitales, en
particular para los países en desarrollo, con el fin de facilitar el reconocimiento de las calificaciones, y
que en consecuencia revestían una importancia crucial para el acceso a los mercados de serviciosprofesionales. La India también pensaba que los Miembros podrían beneficiarse del intercambio de
información sobre los párrafos 3 y 5 del artículo VII, porque no estaba clara la forma en que los
Miembros habían cumplido estas disposiciones. Su delegación creía que era necesario un debate de
esta cuestión para mejorar la aplicación. El orador sugirió que el Consejo se centrara en tres aspectos:S/C/M/67
Página 4
la forma en que los Miembros podrían cumplir las obligaciones de notificación establecidas en los
apartados a), b) y c) del párrafo 4 del artículo VII; la forma en que los Miembros podrían mejorar el
contenido de esas notificaciones haciendo constar claramente los sectores a los que se referían y
poniendo a disposición de la Secretaría el texto real del acuerdo correspondiente, a efectos de
transparencia y disponibilidad para los demás Miembros; e intercambio de información sobre lospárrafos 3 y 5 del artículo VII. El orador esperaba que la comunicación estimulara el debate e hiciera
avanzar el proceso.
20. El representante del Pakistán recordó que no era la primera vez que la delegación de la India
había señalado a la atención del Consejo este importante elemento del AGCS. Deseaba asociar su
delegación a la declaración de la India, y recordó que el no reconocimiento de las calificaciones tenía
como resultado impedir el acceso a los mercados. Dijo que los países en desarrollo tenían un gran
interés por el modo 4, y que veía un vínculo directo entre los intereses por el modo 4 y el artículo VIIdel AGCS. En su opinión, el artículo VII había quedado invalidado por la falta de reconocimiento
mutuo de las calificaciones y debido a las pocas notificaciones que se habían presentado a la
Secretaría. El orador tomó nota de que sola mente se habían notificado dos acuerdos en los
tres últimos años, lo que hacía que surgieran dudas en cuanto a la transparencia. Si los Miembros no
desconocían los requisitos en materia de calificaciones, apenas podrían hacerse progresos.El representante consideraba que la propuesta contenida en el párrafo 9 del documento, en que se
definían cinco medios y formas de hacer progresos, constituía un paso en la dirección correcta.
El párrafo abordaba parcialmente la notificación de las medidas pertinentes a la Secretaría y el
contenido de estas notificaciones. El orador subrayó el carácter no discriminatorio de las obligaciones
dimanantes del párrafo 3 del artículo VII. Consideró que el Consejo debería tomar nota de una lagunaen la aplicación del artículo VII y debería centrarse en la propuesta con miras a hacer progresos en
esta cuestión.
21. La representante de Tailandia recordó que su delegación había declarado a menudo que el
reconocimiento revestía gran importancia para las negociaciones sobre el acceso a los mercados en el
modo 4. Consideraba que la ausencia de reconocimiento de las calificaciones era un gran obstáculopara el acceso a los mercados. La oradora compartía las opiniones expresadas en la propuesta de la
India, así como sus sugerencias para el trabajo práctico sobre este punto. Con respecto al ámbito de
aplicación del artículo VII, estaba de acuerdo en que revestía especial importancia para los servicios
profesionales, pero no consideraba que el ámbito de aplicación del artículo se limitara a los servicios
profesionales, ya que en el párrafo 1 de ese artículo se hacía referencia a "los proveedores de
servicios". Compartía el interés particular de la India por los servicios profesionales y entendía que
los criterios sobre las calificaciones estaban establecidos de manera más sistemática con respecto aellos. Añadió que Tailandia estaba estableciendo criterios sobre las calificaciones en otras esferas de
manera sistemática y objetiva. Pensaba que las sugerencias de la India podrían aplicarse por igual a
otros sectores de servicios.
22. La representante de Cuba se mostró de acuerdo con la importancia de este punto y dijo que
los obstáculos al reconocimiento de las calificaciones y licencias profesionales tenían repercusión
sobre el suministro de estos servicios por los países en desarrollo. Las negociaciones de acuerdos de
reconocimiento mutuo deberían incluir el reconocimiento de las calificaciones profesionales. Afirmó
que no debería existir discriminación entre los Miembros a la hora de conceder licencias a los
proveedores de servicios.
23. El representante de Chile se hizo eco de la petición de un examen del artículo VII y expresó la
opinión de que los compromisos contraídos en el marco de los artículos XVI y XVII quedarían
menoscabados si al final los proveedores de servicios no podían obtener acceso al mercado por falta
de reconocimiento. No se trataba de un obstáculo encubierto, sino explícito, y si no se lograba
superar este problema se menoscabaría el valor de los compromisos en materia de acceso a los
mercados y trato nacional para los proveedores de servicios. El orador dijo que al sector privado deS/C/M/67
Página 5
Chile le preocupaba la falta de acceso a los mercados debido a la ausencia de acuerdos de
reconocimiento mutuo. Consideraba que el documen to de la India coadyuvaría al avance de esta
labor. Respecto del apartado d) del párrafo 5 del documento, su delegación consideraba que
convendría examinar el funcionamiento del párrafo 2 del artículo VII, si no se abordaba ya en la
comunicación. El representante estimaba que debería examinarse el mandato contenido en esadisposición con el fin de determinar si en la práctica los Miembros habían ofrecido oportunidades
suficientes de adhesión a los acuerdos.
24. El representante de México consideraba que el documento contenía importantes elementos
dignos de examen. Sin embargo, su delegación pensaba que podrían tenerse en cuenta otros
elementos de la propuesta. Citando la experiencia de México, dijo que se habían alcanzado muy
pocos acuerdos de ese tipo. Señaló que muchos de los acuerdos se alcanzaban entre órganos
profesionales privados y no siempre eran firmados o ratificados por los gobiernos. Citó el ejemplo deun acuerdo entre la Asociación Mexicana de Arquitectos y la Asociación Europea de Arquitectos, que
no tenían carácter de un acuerdo intergubernamental. El orador estimaba necesario aclarar el tipo de
notificaciones requeridas e incluir los acuerdos entre gobiernos o aprobados por ellos. Estaba de
acuerdo con los elementos de la propuesta relativos a la transparencia en la existencia de esos
acuerdos. Dijo que la propuesta contenía importantes elementos relacionados con la cuestión delcumplimiento del artículo VII. Afirmó que la capacidad de los Miembros para adherirse a acuerdos
negociados entre otros Miembros estaba directamente relacionada con la ampliación de los
compromisos y las corrientes comerciales en el modo 4. Indicó que volvería sobre este punto.
25. El representante de Filipinas afirmó que el documento atribuía una mayor relevancia a la
cuestión del reconocimiento, que facilitaba y mejoraba el acceso a los mercados obtenido en la ronda
anterior o en la ronda en curso. Observó que mientras el documento se centraba en los servicios
profesionales, el párrafo 1 del artículo VII se refiere a los "proveedores de servicios" en general,
aunque entendía la importancia atribuida a los servicios profesionales en el documento, dado que
probablemente se trataba del caso más pertinente. Indicó que, aunque el documento se centraba
principalmente en la transparencia, también ofrecía una plataforma para un planteamiento positivo dela cuestión del reconocimiento en general y de los acuerdos de reconocimiento mutuo en particular.
Esperaba que se produjeran nuevos debates e indicó que volvería sobre este punto.
26. El representante del Japón reconoció que el artículo VII era un elemento importante de la
estructura del AGCS, dado que tenía en cuenta el carácter especial del reconocimiento de las
calificaciones en el comercio de servicios. Estaba de acuerdo en que las obligaciones existentes, junto
con otras contenidas en el Acuerdo, deberían ser aplicadas y respetadas por los Miembros. En este
sentido, compartía la orientación general de la comunicación, y consideraba que el Consejo podríaestudiar los posibles problemas relacionados con la aplicación de las obligaciones existentes en el
artículo VII. Un aspecto digno de debate podría ser el alcance de las medidas sujetas a notificación y,
más concretamente, los acuerdos entre organizaciones privadas y profesionales. Se preguntó por las
razones que podrían explicar por qué había habido un número limitado de notificaciones, por ejemplo,
el número limitado de acuerdos de reconocimiento mutuo o la dificultad práctica de determinar elpunto de partida de esas negociaciones. Estaba de acuerdo en que algunos puntos planteados acerca
de la aplicación podrían ser objeto de ulteriores debates. Respecto del apartado 5 del párrafo 9 y los
"criterios convenidos multilateralmente", preguntó si la India tenía en mente algún sector profesional
o no profesional específico de especial interés.
27. La representante de Nueva Zelandia consideraba que la comunicación sería útil para estimular
los debates sobre este punto. Estaba de acuerdo en que el reconocimiento era vital para la plena
aplicación de los compromisos sectoriales, en particular pero no de manera exclusiva con respecto a
los servicios profesionales. Aunque reconoció que podría ser difícil determinar medidas colectivas
concretas, su delegación estaba dispuesta a indicar medidas prácticas que pudieran adoptarse para
fortalecer el reconocimiento y fomentar el progreso. La oradora pensaba que sería convenienteS/C/M/67
Página 6
mantener nuevos debates sobre el papel de los órganos profesionales y las facultades delegadas, y que
los argumentos planteados en relación con la transparencia constituían un útil punto de partida.
28. El representante de Corea consideraba que en el contexto de las negociaciones bilaterales de
petición y oferta sobre la liberalización del comercio de servicios sería conveniente contar con un
entendimiento más claro de los futuros acuerdos de reconocimiento según lo estipulado en elartículo VII para facilitar la liberalización, en particular de los servicios profesionales. En este
sentido, planteó a la Secretaría una pregunta sobre si era técnica y prácticamente posible consignar un
compromiso con la condición de que fuera válido únicamente respecto de los Miembros con los que
se hubieran establecido acuerdos de reconocimiento mutuo.
29. El representante del Perú estaba de acuerdo en que el suministro de información sobre el
reconocimiento era un tema importante para su delegación, en particular con respecto a los
compromisos sobre servicios profesionales. Sin embargo, se hizo eco de las observaciones en elsentido de que la cuestión no se refería exclusivamente a los servicios profesionales. En general,
compartía el planteamiento expuesto por la India, que se centraba en medidas destinadas a mejorar la
transparencia, y añadió que apoyaba los objetivos descritos en el documento.
30. El representante de Indonesia asoció a su delegación con las opiniones expresadas por la India
en el documento JOB(03)/120 sobre la aplicación del artículo VII del AGCS. Su delegación había
observado que el acceso a los mercados en el modo 4 era restringido para los países en desarrollo
debido a los obstáculos encontrados por los profesionales. Recordó que para la mayoría de los países
en desarrollo, el modo 4 ofrecía las mejores posibilidades para el comercio multilateral de servicios, y
dijo que compartía las preocupaciones sobre el modo 4 en relación con el reconocimiento.
31. La representante de Colombia consideraba que el documento ofrecía una buena base para
iniciar un debate técnico sobre el artículo VII. Para su delegación, el reconocimiento era importante
para conseguir la operatividad de los compromisos en el modo 4 y un elemento necesario para
suministrar servicios a otros mercados. Estaba de acuerdo en que las disposiciones del artículo VII no
se habían aplicado según lo esperado y en que, en consecuencia, era necesario un análisis más
detenido de estas obligaciones. Estaba de acuerdo en que sería necesario estudiar más a fondoalgunos elementos para que los Miembros pudieran cumplir las obligaciones del artículo VII, en
particular el ámbito de aplicación del artículo VII y la autonomía de las asociaciones profesionales
privadas.
32. El representante del Canadá subrayó la importancia que su delegación atribuía a las
cuestiones del reconocimiento y el establecimiento de acuerdos de reconocimiento mutuo entre
organizaciones reguladoras profesionales competentes. Consideraba que las cuestiones relativas al
artículo VII eran temas de debate adecuados para el Consejo del Comercio de Servicios. Hizo notarlos beneficios de la transparencia y el intercambio de información mediante el fomento de una mayor
participación en acuerdos de reconocimiento mutuo. Con respecto al apartado b) del párrafo 4 del
artículo VII, que establecía que se informaría al Consejo "con la máxima antelación posible, de la
iniciación de negociaciones sobre un acuerdo", preg untó qué se entendía por la expresión "iniciación
de negociaciones", ya que a menudo era difícil determinar el momento en que se iniciaban esasnegociaciones. Por ejemplo, en el Canadá se alca nzaban acuerdos entre órganos profesionales, que a
menudo se iniciaban con intercambios de información o conversaciones exploratorias antes de pasar a
las negociaciones formales. El orador señaló que se trataba de un proceso continuo, lo que hacía
difícil definir en qué momento se iniciaban las negociaciones.
33. La representante de Bolivia consideraba que el documento señalaba un buen punto de partida
para mejorar la operatividad del artículo VII del AGCS, en particular con respecto a los servicios
profesionales. Como se refleja en las peticiones de Bolivia, se trata de una esfera de interés para suS/C/M/67
Página 7
país, relacionada directamente con el modo 4. La oradora apoyaba la sugerencia de que el Consejo
prestara especial atención a este tema, dada su importancia para los países en desarrollo.
34. El representante de Kenya señaló la importancia de este tema para su delegación, porque la
ausencia de reconocimiento se había convertido en uno de los principales obstáculos al acceso a los
mercados, en particular en el modo 4. Estaba de acuerdo en que era necesario mantener unseguimiento de los acuerdos de reconocimiento mutuo, además de los demás puntos planteados por la
India, que merecían una más amplia consideración. Indicó que deseaba volver sobre este punto.
35. El representante de Hong Kong, China señaló que el reconocimiento era una cuestión
importante y esencial para garantizar que se diera plena efectividad al acceso a los mercados, tanto en
el sector de los servicios profesionales como en otros sectores de servicios. En este sentido, el
documento planteaba puntos importantes sobre el artículo VII, y el orador esperaba con interés un
debate que mejorara la transparencia y la claridad en relación con las notificaciones presentadas deconformidad con el artículo VII. Su delegación estaba dispuesta a debatir el alcance de estas
notificaciones con miras a aclarar su aplicación y mejorar su transparencia. El orador señaló que se
estaban estudiando otros aspectos del reconocimiento en otros foros, y que esperaba con interés esos
debates.
36. La representante de los Estados Unidos dijo que su delegación acogía con satisfacción un
debate sobre este documento, y recordó un debate similar en el Grupo de Trabajo sobre la
Reglamentación Nacional. Su delegación tomó nota del argumento de la India de que muchos
acuerdos de reconocimiento mutuo los contraían entidades privadas, y declaró que ése solía ser el
caso en los Estados Unidos, lo que explicaba qué no se hubieran hecho notificaciones de esos
acuerdos de conformidad con el artículo VII, ya que éste se refería a acuerdos entre los Miembros.Añadió que su delegación estaba examinando la cuestión suscitada por la India de que podían
alcanzarse acuerdos a través de facultades delegadas. Consideraba que en este sentido convendría
reflexionar sobre el artículo I del AGCS, que en el apartado a) de su párrafo 3 contiene una indicación
específica de lo que constituyen medidas adoptadas por los Miembros. Entendía que podría existir
una distinción entre ambas formas. Para su delegación no estaba claro que existiera un acuerdogeneral sobre la forma de definir las facultades delegadas aparte de la indicación que figura en el
artículo I. Solicitó que se distribuyera en el Consejo una comunicación de los Estados Unidos sobre
estos acuerdos que había sido distribuida en el Grupo de Trabajo sobre la Reglamentación Nacional,
con el fin de mantener la paridad en ambos debates.
37. Haciendo algunas observaciones preliminares, el representante de Suiza consideró que el
documento había planteado una serie de cuestiones importantes, entre ellas algunas que tenían
repercusión sobre el acceso a los mercados. Su delegación atribuía importancia a la aplicación delAcuerdo y estaba dispuesta a proceder a un intercambio de información y a un debate sobre el
artículo VII. Los acuerdos de reconocimiento mutuo eran un asunto complicado, regulado por las
autoridades competentes, e importante para el acceso a los mercados, en especial de servicios
profesionales. El orador indicó que podría volver sobre este punto.
38. El representante de las Comunidades Europeas declaró que el documento planteaba
cuestiones interesantes y que su delegación lo estaba examinando y podría volver sobre él. Tras
algunas observaciones preliminares, instó a la cautela a la hora de llegar a la conclusión de que la
ausencia de notificaciones indicaba que los Miembros no estaban cumpliendo las obligaciones
contenidas en el artículo VII. Señaló que la conclusión de acuerdos de reconocimiento mutuo era un
proceso complejo, particularmente en la esfera de los servicios. Afirmó que las ComunidadesEuropeas atribuían importancia a las obligaciones en materia de transparencia. Entendía que los
acuerdos de reconocimiento mutuo eran importantes para garantizar la plena efectividad del acceso a
los mercados en algunos sectores de servicios. Sin embargo, observó que la plena efectividad delS/C/M/67
Página 8
acceso a los mercados dependía de la existencia de compromisos, y esperaba que el número y la
calidad de estos compromisos mejorara sustancialmente en la ronda en curso.
39. El representante de China compartía varias de las opiniones expresadas por la India acerca de
la importancia de mejorar la aplicación del artículo VII, en particular mediante el reconocimiento
relacionado con los compromisos en el modo 4 y en materia de acceso a los mercados. Esto eranecesario para mantener el equilibrio de derechos y obligaciones de los Miembros en el marco
del AGCS.
40. Con respecto a la pregunta de la delegación de Corea relativa a la consignación en listas de
compromisos que se aplicarían únicamente a los interlocutores comerciales con los que el Miembro
en cuestión tuviera un acuerdo de reconocimiento mutuo, un representante de la Secretaría dijo que el
artículo VII permitía que los Miembros establecieran dichos acuerdos mediante una desviación delprincipio NMF. Dijo que había sido necesario incluir el artículo VII en el Acuerdo porque elartículo II requería que cada Miembro otorgara inmediata e incondicionalmente a los servicios y a los
proveedores de servicios de cualquier otro Miembro un trato no menos favorable que el que
concediera a los servicios y proveedores de servicios de cualquier otro país. En consecuencia,
cualquier desviación del artículo II requería una cobertura jurídica en otra parte del Acuerdo. Este era
el caso del artículo V (Integración económica) y el artículo VII (Reconocimiento). Artículos como
estos permitían que los Miembros otorgaran determinados privilegios a los proveedores de servicios
de algunos Miembros y no de otros. Sin embargo, dijo que el artículo VII también establecía
distinciones entre cuestiones de procedimiento y de fondo, lo que se reflejaba en el párrafo 3, que
establecía que ningún Miembro podía establecer discriminaciones entre países en la aplicación de las
prescripciones de fondo del artículo. El orador decl aró que las disposiciones de los artículos V y VII
eran, en términos jurídicos, disposiciones permisivas o de habilitación, dado que permitían a los
Miembros adoptar medidas que de otro modo no serían compatibles con otras obligaciones prescritas
en el Acuerdo, tales como el artículo II. Desarrollando esta distinción, manifestó que todos los
derechos establecidos de conformidad con medidas adoptadas en virtud de esas disposiciones
permisivas eran los derechos de participantes en un acuerdo de integración económica o un acuerdode reconocimiento mutuo, y no estaban protegi dos por el AGCS propiamente dicho. La OMC
permitía que los Miembros establecieran estos derechos para algunos Miembros y no para otros, pero
no se comprometía a aplicarlos. Por el contrario, afirmó que la consignación de un compromiso en
una lista establecía un derecho garantizado para los demás Miembros, que sería aplicado por la OMC
a través del Entendimiento sobre Solución de Diferencias. Con respecto a este último, el AGCS era
un acuerdo abarcado en el sentido del ESD y sujeto a aplicación. Un acuerdo conforme al artículo V
o al artículo VII no se consideraría un acuerdo abarcado en el sentido del ESD. En resumen, dijo queen virtud del Acuerdo vigente no era posible establecer derechos legales en la Lista de un Miembro
que fueran aplicables sólo a algunos Miembros y no a otros.
41. El representante del Pakistán dijo que la respuesta de la Secretaría podía considerarse una
interpretación jurídica del artículo VII. Pidió que la declaración se distribuyera de manera informal o
se incluyera en el acta. El Presidente confirmó que las observaciones hechas en la reunión, incluida la
respuesta a la que hacía referencia el representante, aparecerían en el informe de la reunión.
42. La representante de los Estados Unidos deseaba subrayar, para que constase en acta, que las
observaciones de la Secretaría se hacían bajo su propia responsabilidad, y que otras delegaciones
podían tener opiniones diferentes. El representante de Filipinas sugirió que constara en acta que la
observación de la Secretaría se facilitaba a título consultivo y que no se trataba de una interpretación
jurídica. Un representante de la Secretaría confirmó que las respuestas de la Secretaría se hacían
siempre bajo su propia responsabilidad y únicamente a título consultivo.
43. El representante de la India dio las gracias a las delegaciones que habían contribuido al debate
y dijo que deseaba responder a algunas de las cuestiones planteadas. Respecto del ámbito deS/C/M/67
Página 9
aplicación del artículo VII, estaba de acuerdo en que el alcance del artículo y del debate no se limitaba
a los servicios profesionales, pero que había querido utilizar este caso como un ejemplo entre otros.
En segundo lugar, en cuanto a la cuestión de si algunas notificaciones eran totalmente privadas y no
quedaban abarcadas por el Acuerdo, consideraba que aún quedaban dudas al respecto, que deberían
estudiarse con mayor detalle, en particular con respecto a la cuestión de las facultades delegadas. Sepreguntaba si la cuestión de las facultades delegadas era pertinente para estos acuerdos y si podría
consultar a la Secretaría en este sentido. Estimaba que ésta era una cuestión central de la propuesta,
que podría arrojar luz sobre algunos de los motivos por los que se habían notificado tan pocos
acuerdos. En tercer lugar, sobre la cuestión de cómo identificar el momento de inicio de las
negociaciones, estaba de acuerdo en que a menudo las negociaciones las iniciaban los órganos
profesionales; sin embargo, había observado que todas las notificaciones se habían hecho post facto .
Aunque estaba de acuerdo en que podría abordarse este tema, dado que no se había notificado ningúnacuerdo antes de su conclusión, pensaba que una cuestión más urgente era si se estaban cumpliendo
las obligaciones dimanantes del párrafo 2 del artículo VII. En respuesta a la pregunta del Japón sobre
los criterios convenidos multilateralmente, declaró que podrían aprovecharse elementos de los
servicios de contabilidad y arquitectura, entre otros. Recordó que en el párrafo 5 del artículo VII se
hacía referencia a los criterios convenidos multilateralmente. En conclusión, dijo que consideraba quela cuestión había suscitado interesantes elementos para el debate y que pensaba que un buen punto de
partida podría ser la cuestión de las facultades privadas frente a las delegadas.
44. Dado el interés mostrado por la comunicación de la India, el Presidente sugirió que el
Consejo tomara nota de las declaraciones hechas y volviera sobre este punto en la siguiente reunión.
45. Así quedó acordado.
F. COMUNICACIÓN DE LAS COMUNIDADES EUROPEAS Y SUS ESTADOS
MIEMBROS DE CONFORMIDAD CON EL ARTÍCULO V DEL AGCS - ADHESIÓN DE
AUSTRIA, FINLANDIA Y SUECIA A LAS COMUNIDADES EUROPEAS
(S/DCS/W/EEC)
46. El Presidente recordó que en la última reunión formal del Consejo del Comercio de Servicios
en Sesión Extraordinaria varias delegaciones hicieron declaraciones sobre esta comunicación. En esa
ocasión se formuló la petición de que este punto figurara en el orden del día de la presente reunión.
47. El representante de las Comunidades Europeas dijo que su delegación acogía con satisfacción
la inclusión de este punto en el orden del día. Repitiendo lo que había dicho su delegación en la
Sesión Extraordinaria, indicó que las Comunidades Europeas y sus Estados miembros habían
notificado al Presidente el 9 de abril de 2003, con arreglo al artículo V del AGCS, la refundición de
las Listas de las Comunidades Europeas y de sus 15 Estados miembros tras la última ampliación aAustria, Finlandia y Suecia. Las Listas refundidas incluían tanto las Listas de Compromisos
Específicos como las Listas de exenciones del trato NMF. En lo que respecta a las Listas de
exenciones del trato NMF, su delegación estimaba que el artículo V permitía a las Comunidades
ampliar las exenciones del trato NMF existentes, y que no constituían de ningún modo nuevas
exenciones. En lo tocante a los compromisos específicos, recordó la intención de las ComunidadesEuropeas de modificar y retirar algunos compromisos, según lo previsto en el párrafo 5 del artículo V,
y que su delegación lo había notificado debidamente al Consejo el 9 de abril de 2003. Dijo que en
esta comunicación se hacía mención explícita de la intención de las CE de modificar y retirar algunos
de los compromisos como resultado de la última ampliación, y dijo que su delegación había seguido
los procedimientos enunciados en el documento S/L/80 adjuntando una Lista de los compromisosespecíficos que las CE se proponían modificar o retirar.
48. El representante de la Argentina deseaba reiterar los principales puntos contenidos en una
comunicación de su delegación que figura en el documento S/L/123. En primer lugar, dijo que laS/C/M/67
Página 10
Argentina había sido informada durante la reunión del Consejo del Comercio de Servicios en Sesión
Extraordinaria celebrada el 22 de mayo de 2003 de que las Comunidades Europeas consideraban que
el documento S/DCS/W/EEC constituía una noti ficación según los términos del párrafo 5 del
artículo V y el apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo XXI del AGCS. En segundo lugar, en opinión de
su delegación, la comunicación en cuestión no constituía una notificación en los términos establecidosen los Procedimientos para la aplicación del artículo XXI del AGCS (S/L/80) y las Directrices para
las notificaciones previstas en el AGCS (S/L/5). Dijo que el documento no se había distribuido a los
Miembros ni se había incluido en el orden del día de la siguiente reunión del Consejo del Comercio de
Servicios. En opinión de su delegación, la inclusión de la comunicación en el sitio Web de los
Miembros no era constitutivo de distribución de conformidad con los procedimientos establecidos en
el documento S/L/80. Su delegación creía que el cu mplimiento de los procedimientos descritos en los
documentos a los que se había referido era esencial para garantizar la transparencia de losprocedimientos y para evaluar adecuadamente los efectos de las pretendidas modificaciones sobre los
derechos de la Argentina bajo el AGCS. Además, dijo que la serie de documentos en cuestión,
S/DCS/W/, era una serie única que había de utilizarse exclusivamente para la refundición de las Listas
de los Miembros. Dijo que los documentos con esta signatura no tenían valor jurídico, ya que habían
de utilizarse como modelo para facilitar la presentación de ofertas iniciales en las negociaciones.Recordó que este hecho se reflejaba en el documento S/CSC/W/38, así como en la comunicación de la
Secretaría y las actas del órgano en las que se hacía referencia a esta serie de documentos. Dijo que la
ausencia de valor jurídico de los documentos había sido corroborada además por los Miembros en la
actualización del informe anual contenida en el documento S/CSC/8. La Argentina consideraba que
el hecho de que no se hubieran seguido adecuadamente los procedimientos tenía repercusión sobre lacapacidad de los Miembros para evaluar y apreciar correctamente la forma en que podrían haberse
visto afectados sus derechos por las modificaciones de los compromisos propuestas. Dado que el
plazo para la aplicación de la modificación propuesta era lo suficientemente largo, se tomaba la
libertad de sugerir a la delegación de las Comunidades Europeas que considerara la posibilidad de
presentar una notificación de conformidad con las disposiciones de los procedimientos a los que sehabía referido. Reconoció que no incumbía a la Argentina pronunciarse sobre la adecuación de un
procedimiento determinado, cosa que era prerrogativa de los Miembros. Solicitó la opinión de los
Miembros y de la Secretaría en relación con los aspectos de procedimiento de este asunto.
49. La representante de Chile deseaba reiterar algunos puntos planteados por su delegación en su
comunicación contenida en el documento S/L/127. S ubrayó que su intención no era poner en tela de
juicio a las Comunidades Europeas, sino señalar a la atención de los Miembros posibles defectos en
los procedimientos. Consideraba que este asunto era una oportunidad de aclarar una cuestión de granrepercusión sistémica, con miras a evitar situaciones similares en el futuro. Chile tomó nota del
documento S/DCS/W/EEC en la reunión en Sesión Extraordinaria celebrada el 22 de mayo de 2003.
En esa ocasión se indicó que el documento debía considerarse una notificación de conformidad con el
párrafo 5 del artículo V y el apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo XXI. La oradora recordó la opinión
expresada en la comunicación de su delegación de que la comunicación de las CE no constituía unanotificación. Como se señalaba en el informe más reciente del Comité de Compromisos Específicos,
la signatura que aparecía en el documento, S/DCS/W/EEC, pertenecía a una serie que no tenía ningún
valor jurídico, y que era un ejercicio único de compilación de la refundición de las Listas de la OMC.
Declaró que las notificaciones debían distribuirse en la serie S/C/N/ y debían ser inscritas en el
Registro Central de Notificaciones. De conformidad con los Procedimientos para la aplicación delartículo XXI, esas notificaciones debían distribuirse a todos los Miembros e incluirse en el orden del
día de la siguiente reunión del Consejo, cosa que, según observó, no se había producido.
El documento no había sido distribuido, sino que úni camente se había incluido en el sitio Web de los
Miembros. En opinión de la oradora, este hecho no era constitutivo de distribución del documento.
Dijo que el cumplimiento de los procedimientos y las directrices de los documentos S/L/80 y S/L/5eran de importancia primordial para garantizar la transparencia en los procedimientos, a lo que Chile
atribuía gran importancia. Sólo de esta manera podría Chile evaluar la repercusión de las
modificaciones previstas sobre los derechos de Chile en virtud del Acuerdo. La oradora se hizo ecoS/C/M/67
Página 11
de la sugerencia de la Argentina de que las CE distribuyeran una notificación de conformidad con los
procedimientos a los que había hecho referencia. Recordó que se había dedicado mucho tiempo a
elaborar los procedimientos, y que deberían aplicarse de la manera convenida. Dijo que si había
deficiencias en estos procedimientos deberían debatirse abiertamente en el Consejo.
50. La representante del Paraguay, con referencia a la comunicación de su delegación contenida
en el documento S/L/129 y en relación con la co municación de las Comunidades Europeas en la que
indican su intención de modificar sus compromisos específicos, expresó la preocupación de su
delegación por el método utilizado por esa delegación para hacer su modificación. Dijo que la
declaración de las Comunidades Europeas en la reunión en Sesión Extraordinaria del 22 de mayo
de 2003 no era una notificación en debida forma de conformidad con las disposiciones establecidas en
el artículo XXI, los Procedimientos para la aplicación del artículo XXI del AGCS (S/L/80) y las
Directrices para las notificaciones previstas en el AGCS (S/L/5), por los motivos expuestos por laArgentina y Chile. El Paraguay consideraba que el debido cumplimiento de los procedimientos era
fundamental para garantizar la certidumbre jurídica a todos los Miembros. La oradora estaba
convencida de que el pleno cumplimiento de las normas y los procedimientos convenidos era
imprescindible para evitar un precedente negativo. Afirmó que no incumbía a su delegación
determinar si se había seguido adecuadamente un procedimiento, ya que esto correspondía a losMiembros.
51. El representante del Perú explicó que su delegación había tenido conocimiento de las
enmiendas propuestas por las CE en la reunión en Sesión Extraordinaria del 22 de mayo de 2003, y
que tomó nota del documento S/DCS/W/EEC en esa ocasión. Señaló que el Perú no había presentado
ninguna comunicación en relación con ese docum ento. Sin embargo, deseaba dejar claro que su
delegación tenía un interés sistémico en una cuestión relacionada con la transparencia y el
cumplimiento de procedimientos que todos los Miembros se habían comprometido a respetar.
Reiterando la postura de su delegación, afirmó que la comunicación de las Comunidades Europeas no
constituía una notificación en los términos de los Procedimientos para la aplicación del artículo XXI
del AGCS (S/L/80) y las Directrices para las notificaciones previstas en el AGCS (S/L/5).Consideraba que estas disposiciones eran clave para garantizar la transparencia de los procedimientos
que permitieran a los Miembros evaluar adecuadamente los efectos de cualquier modificación
propuesta que afectara a los derechos obtenidos por el Perú en la Ronda Uruguay. Manifestó que los
procedimientos relativos al artículo XXI convenidos por el Consejo el 19 de julio de 1999 establecían
que los Miembros podían modificar sus Listas de conformidad con el artículo XXI mediante una
notificación adecuada que sería distribuida por la Secretaría a todos los demás Miembros en un
documento secreto y se incluiría en el orden del día de la siguiente reunión del Consejo del Comerciode Servicios. Afirmó que la comunicación de las Comunidades Europeas no había cumplido estas
prescripciones. El hecho de que el documento se hubiera incluido en el sitio Web de los Miembros
era positivo, pero no descargaba a los Miembros de cumplir sus obligaciones. Dijo que se habían
establecido directrices claras en documentos específicos aprobados por el Consejo y por todos los
Miembros. Se hizo eco de las observaciones de la Argentina acerca de los efectos legales de lamodificación de compromisos consignados en listas, y se mostró de acuerdo con la sugerencia de que
vuelva a presentarse la notificación.
52. El representante de Hong Kong, China agradeció a las CE las explicaciones que habían
ofrecido en la reunión en Sesión Extraordinaria celebrada el 22 de mayo, y que figuran en el informe
de esa reunión (TN/S/M/7). Acogió con satisfacción la oportunidad de abordar cuestiones sistémicaspreocupantes para su delegación, y destacó que su objetivo era aclarar las disposiciones legales y los
procedimientos aplicables al tipo de medidas previstas en la comunicación de las CE. Dijo que
aunque el asunto objeto de debate era el primero en que se consideraban este tipo de medidas,
probablemente no sería el último. En consecuencia, consideraba que redundaba en interés sistémico
que se aclararan las disposiciones legales y los procedimientos aplicables. En cuanto a la cuestión delprocedimiento seguido en la comunicación, compartía el malestar de otros oradores con la intenciónS/C/M/67
Página 12
de que fuera una notificación. En su opinión estas dudas planteaban preocupaciones sistémicas, y
esperaba con interés poder aclararlas. En el aspecto práctico, y dejando aparte la cuestión de si la
comunicación era una notificación adecuada, restaba el hecho de que no se señaló el documento a la
atención de las delegaciones hasta unos días antes de la reunión en Sesión Extraordinaria del 22 de
mayo, debido a las cuestiones de procedimiento a las que otros oradores se habían referido. Incluso sise hubiera argumentado que podían haberse respetado los procedimientos, los Miembros no habían
podido aprovechar plenamente el plazo ni las dispos iciones para responder a la comunicación. Por lo
tanto, consideraba que podía defenderse el establecimiento de un plazo más largo antes de continuar
presionando con los procedimientos aplicables, tanto legales como prácticos.
53. Pasando al contenido de la comunicación, el or ador tomó nota de que combinaba dos tipos de
medida: 1) la sustitución de las Listas de Compromisos Específicos de las Comunidades Europeas y
sus Estados miembros por la Lista refundida de compromisos específicos y 2) la sustitución de laLista existente de exenciones del trato NMF de las Comunidades Europeas y sus Estados miembros
por la Lista refundida de exenciones del trato NMF. A su delegación le parecía que a estos dos tipos
de medidas les eran aplicables disposiciones legales y procedimientos distintos. A pesar del hecho de
que ambas medidas derivaban del mismo acuerdo de integración económica, el orador consideraba
que deberían examinarse independientemente en términos de las disposiciones legales y losprocedimientos aplicables. En cuanto a la Lista refundida de compromisos específicos, dijo que había
tomado nota de la declaración de las CE en la última reunión formal en Sesión Extraordinaria, de que
las Listas refundidas suponían la modificación o el retiro de compromisos específicos, y que habían
hecho una notificación de conformidad con el párrafo 5 del artículo V. Las CE habían explicado
además que el párrafo 5 del artículo V remitía a los párrafos 2 a 4 del artículo XXI, que nada decíansobre la notificación, ya que sólo en el párrafo 1 del artículo XXI se habla de notificación. Recordó
que las Comunidades Europeas habían explicado también que habían ido más allá de lo requerido en
el párrafo 5 del artículo V al mencionar su intención de modificar y retirar una lista de determinados
compromisos de conformidad con el párrafo 1 del artículo XXI. Esta explicación le había sugerido
una serie de cuestiones. Preguntó si los procedimientos establecidos en el documento S/L/80 eranaplicables a una notificación en virtud del párrafo 5 del artículo V y al retiro o la modificación de
compromisos dimanante de una notificación de ese tipo. En su opinión, de la explicación dada se
deducía una respuesta afirmativa; sin embargo, deseaba asegurarse de si eran aplicables los párrafos 1
y 2 del documento S/L/80 y, de no ser así, cuáles serían los procedimientos para la notificación y el
retiro o la modificación de compromisos resultantes de una medida conforme con el párrafo 5 del
artículo V.
54. Pasando a la Lista refundida de exenciones del trato NMF, señaló que en la comunicación de
las CE no se habían citado expresamente disposiciones legales ni procedimientos a efectos de la
sustitución de las listas existentes de exenciones del trato NMF por las Listas refundidas de
exenciones del trato NMF adjuntas a la comunicación. El orador había tomado nota de la declaración
de las CE registrada en el párrafo 181 del documento TN/S/M/7, en el sentido de que las CE
consideraban que el artículo V del AGCS permitía esta medida porque se trataba de exenciones deltrato NMF ya existentes y no entrañaban ampliación alguna de su alcance. No obstante, señaló que de
las actas de las reuniones del Comité de Acuerdos Comerciales Regionales le parecía entender que no
había habido consenso sobre la interpretación que las Comunidades Europeas hacían del artículo V ni
sobre si este último permitía la refundición o la ampliación de exenciones del trato NMF.
Aparentemente la Lista refundida de exenciones del trato NMF introducía nuevas exenciones conrespecto a Austria, Finlandia y Suecia. Si este era el caso, a Hong Kong, China le parecía que la única
disposición aplicable para la refundición de las Listas de exenciones del trato NMF sería el párrafo 3
del artículo IX del Acuerdo de Marrakech, de conformidad con el párrafo 2 del Anexo al AGCS sobre
exenciones de las obligaciones del artículo II. Citando la cuarta frase del párrafo 181 del acta
contenida en el documento TN/S/M/7, deseaba dejar constancia de que en opinión de su delegación, eltérmino "Lista" mencionado en los artículos XX y XXI no incluía las listas de exenciones del
trato NMF, que eran documentos legales basados en el Anexo sobre exenciones de las obligacionesS/C/M/67
Página 13
del artículo II que establecían las exenciones de cada Miembro de conformidad con el artículo II.
Por lo tanto, eran diferentes de las Listas basadas en el artículo XX, que contenían compromisos
específicos correspondientes a los artículos XVI, XVII y XVIII. El orador pidió a las Comunidades
Europeas que aclararan las cuestiones a las que se había referido. También esperaba que la Secretaría
pudiera arrojar luz sobre los puntos sistémicos y de procedimiento que había suscitado.
55. Con referencia a la reciente comunicación de las Comunidades Europeas y sus Estados
Miembros de conformidad con el artículo V del AGCS, relativa a la adhesión de Austria, Finlandia y
Suecia a las Comunidades Europeas, y a la intervención de la delegación de las Comunidades
Europeas en la anterior reunión en Sesión Extraordinaria, la representante de Colombia dijo que no
estaba claro qué elementos hacían posible determinar que una comunicación era una notificación envirtud del párrafo 5 del artículo V y el artículo XXI del AGCS. La interpretación que su delegación
daba a la comunicación en cuestión era que estaba relacionada con la labor de refundición de las
Listas y por lo tanto no tenía valor jurídico. En consecuencia, su delegación no entendía cómo la
comunicación podría constituir una notificación en los términos de esos artículos. La oradora dijo que
debían examinarse las preocupaciones expresadas por la Argentina y Chile en sus comunicaciones y
declaraciones. Añadió que los documentos de la serie S/DCS/W/ no se traducían a los idiomas de
trabajo oficiales, lo que hacía difícil entender su contenido. En este asunto no se habían respetado losprocedimientos descritos en los Procedimientos para la aplicación del artículo XXI del AGCS
(S/L/80) ni en las Directrices para las notificaciones previstas en el AGCS (S/L/5). Para su
delegación el cumplimiento de estos procedimientos era crucial para garantizar la transparencia y el
debido proceso. La oradora había entendido que la intención de las Comunidades Europeas en el
documento S/DCS/W/EEC era notificar la modificación o el retiro de sus compromisos específicosconsolidados. Con ese fin, consideraba que era necesario garantizar la claridad distribuyendo un
nuevo documento con el título adecuado, para poder iniciar el procedimiento de notificación
apropiado.
56. La representante del Taipei Chino, haciéndose eco de opiniones similares de otros oradores
sobre cuestiones sistémicas, dijo que su delegación creía que la comunicación contenida en el
documento S/DCS/W/EEC no constituía una notifi cación en el sentido de lo expuesto en los
documentos S/L/80 y S/L/5. Consideraba que el re speto de estos procedimientos era esencial para
garantizar la transparencia del procedimiento y para evaluar adecuadamente la repercusión de las
modificaciones previstas sobre los derechos de los Miembros en el marco del AGCS. La oradora
recordó que en mayo de 2002 su delegación había seguido los procedimientos descritos en el
documento S/L/84 para rectificar un error técnico en la Lista del Taipei Chino. En los documentos
pertinentes, su delegación había indicado claramente los plazos correspondientes, y esperaba que lasComunidades Europeas pudieran publicar su notificación siguiendo los procedimientos adecuados y
con el título apropiado. Dijo que la comunicación de las CE no implicaba ni iniciaba los plazos
indicados en el párrafo 3 del documento S/L/80. Su delegación deseaba reservarse sus derechos en el
contexto de los procedimientos de notificación existentes, en particular en virtud del artículo XXI
del AGCS.
57. El representante del Japón deseaba referirse tanto al retiro o la modificación de compromisos
específicos como a la refundición o sustitución de la Lista de exenciones del trato NMF. Con
respecto a lo primero, al Japón le preocupaba que el procedimiento para el retiro de compromisos
específicos debido a la ampliación de las Comunidades Europeas, así como su notificación, se
hubieran "vertido" en el proceso más amplio de refundición de las listas de los Miembros. Esta vía deacción había causado confusión y dudas, en particular con respecto a la distribución de la notificación
a los Miembros y a si la medida se había adoptado de manera jurídicamente correcta. También había
planteado dudas sobre la traducción a los idiomas de trabajo, la distribución de ejemplares impresos,
la inclusión del punto en el orden del día de la siguiente reunión del Consejo, etc. El orador declaró
que la notificación, que era mucho más que la simple refundición de los distintos acuerdos de unMiembro, se había hecho de una manera que no respondía a las expectativas razonables de losS/C/M/67
Página 14
Miembros, como demostraba el hecho de que una notificación importante hubiera pasado inadvertida
para la mayoría de los Miembros dos semanas después de su supuesta distribución. Deseaba oír las
opiniones de la delegación de las Comunidades Europeas y de la Secretaría en este sentido. Pensaba
que la cuestión fundamental se refería al fundamento jurídico del procedimiento, y entendía que el
retiro o la modificación de compromisos como consecuencia de la ampliación, incluso si se notificabaen virtud del párrafo 5 del artículo V, se basaría en los procedimientos del artículo XXI. Sin embargo,
pensaba haber entendido lo contrario en la declaración de las Comunidades Europeas en la anterior
reunión en Sesión Extraordinaria, esto es, que se había invocado el apartado b) del párrafo 1 del
artículo XXI y que posiblemente se había seguido el procedimiento del artículo XXI de manera
voluntaria. Consideraba que era necesaria una comprensión clara de este punto, y que deberían
aplicarse los procedimientos de manera transparente y estricta en el cumplimiento del espíritu de la
liberalización progresiva. Esa aclaración era aún más urgente teniendo en cuenta que era probableque en un futuro próximo surgieran casos similares. El orador pensaba que si no podía llegarse a una
aclaración y una comprensión clara en la presente reunión, debería continuarse el debate sobre la
interpretación y la aplicación de los artículos V y XXI.
58. Pasando al punto relativo a la Lista de exenciones del trato NMF, el Japón ponía en duda el
fundamento jurídico y el procedimiento que la delegación de las Comunidades Europeas habíaexpuesto en su intervención. Su delegación no compartía la opinión de que la refundición o
sustitución de la Lista de exenciones del trato NMF fuera una simple ampliación del trato NMF
existente, ya que en su opinión, para aquellos países que no habían consignado una exención
determinada, esa medida suponía la introducción de una nueva exención del trato NMF, sujeta al
párrafo 3 del artículo IX del Acuerdo sobre la OMC de conformidad con el Anexo sobre exenciones
de las obligaciones del artículo II. Consideraba que también en este segundo punto eran necesarios
más debates para aclarar los procedimientos y el fundamento jurídico de esta medida.
59. El representante de China dijo que su delegación había seguido el debate relativo a las
cuestiones de procedimiento que rodean a la Lista refundida de las CE. Dado que se trataba del
primer caso de una modificación o retiro de compromisos en el marco del AGCS, declaró que Chinatambién estaba interesada en determinar si se habían seguido los procedimientos adecuados. Con
referencia a una situación en la que las partes en un acuerdo de integración regional modifican o
retiran compromisos específicos en el marco del AGCS, preguntó a qué órgano deberían notificarse
estas modificaciones. Añadió que, según lo acordado por los Miembros en el Comité de
Compromisos Específicos, las Listas refundidas de la serie S/DCS/W/ eran documentos de trabajo y
no tenían valor jurídico para las negociaciones sobre acceso a los mercados y el artículo XIX.
Preguntó si las negociaciones relativas a la modificación o el retiro de compromisos específicospodían llevarse a cabo sobre la base de esta serie de documentos de trabajo. Recordó que el
documento S/DCS/W/EEC no contenía ninguna referencia a los procedimientos aplicables a la
refundición de listas de exenciones del trato NMF, y preguntó qué procedimiento habían seguido las
Comunidades Europeas para refundir sus exencione s del trato NMF. Compartía la preocupación de
otros Miembros por que no se hubiera informado debidamente a los Miembros de las modificacionesen la Lista de las Comunidades Europeas y consideraba que era necesario tomar medidas para corregir
esa situación.
60. El representante de Corea se hizo eco de las preocupaciones de otros oradores sobre
cuestiones de procedimiento en relación con la Lista refundida de compromisos específicos de las
Comunidades Europeas, así como de las exenciones del trato NMF. Declaró que la comunicación de
las Comunidades Europeas contenida en el documento S/DCS/W/EEC no se ajustaba a los
procedimientos contenidos en el documento S/L/80 por varias razones. En primer lugar, el
documento se había distribuido en la serie S/DCS/W/, y no en la serie correspondiente, S/C/N/.
En segundo lugar, la Secretaría no había distribuido la comunicación en un documento secreto.
En tercer lugar, el punto no se había incluido en el orden del día de la siguiente reunión del Consejodel Comercio de Servicios celebrada en mayo de 2003. Corea no podía aceptar la comunicación enS/C/M/67
Página 15
cuestión como base para nuevas negociaciones bilaterales, ni la fecha del 22 de abril de 2003 como
inicio del plazo de negociación. El orador pi dió a las Comunidades Europeas que hicieran una
notificación conforme a los procedimientos apropiados. Pasando a la cuestión de la aplicación
ampliada de medidas de exención del trato NMF, dijo que en la comunicación en cuestión se indicaba
que las exenciones del trato NMF existentes se aplicarían a Austria, Finlandia y Suecia. Dijo que lasComunidades Europeas afirmaban que esto era conforme al párrafo 5 del artículo V del AGCS;
sin embargo, en opinión de su delegación las exenciones del trato NMF debían distinguirse de los
compromisos en virtud de los artículos XVI, XVII, y XVIII. En consecuencia, no podía considerarse
que el apartado a) del párrafo 1 del artículo XXI y las disposiciones y procedimientos contenidos en el
documento S/L/80 fueran aplicables en este caso. Además, se había ampliado el alcance territorial de
las exenciones del trato NMF, y el representante dijo que no podían aplicarse los procedimientos para
la reducción de medidas de exención del trat o NMF contenidos en el documento S/C/W/203.
La aplicación ampliada de la medidas de exención del trato NMF incumplía el párrafo 4 del artículo V
del AGCS, que prohibía la introducción de medidas nuevas o más discriminatorias a través de la
integración económica. En principio, como en el caso de las nuevas medidas de exención del
trato NMF, en este caso deberían aplicarse también los procedimientos previstos en el párrafo 3 del
artículo IX del Acuerdo de Marrakech, de confor midad con el párrafo 2 del Anexo sobre exenciones
de las obligaciones del artículo II. Corea se reservó todos sus derechos en relación con esta cuestión.
61. El representante del Uruguay recordó que su delegación se había referido a la comunicación
de las Comunidades Europeas y sus Estados miembros de conformidad con el artículo V del AGCS
-Adhesión de Austria, Finlandia y Suecia a las Comunidades Europeas (S/DCS/W/EEC), de fecha
22 de abril de 2003, en el documento S/L/116. Recordó además que la comunicación afirmaba que,de conformidad con el párrafo 5 del artículo V y el apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo XXI del
AGCS, las Comunidades Europeas y sus Estados miembros notificaban al Consejo del Comercio de
Servicios su intención de modificar o retirar los compromisos específicos citados en el anexo que
figura en la página 3 de esa comunicación. La co municación de su delegación afirmaba claramente
que la comunicación de las CE era sin perjuicio de la opinión del Uruguay sobre las disposiciones y
procedimientos aplicables en el marco de la OMC a las modificaciones y cambios que se pretendía
introducir en documentos jurídicos, así como sobre la admisibilidad de esos documentos desde el
punto de vista del procedimiento, según indicaba el Uruguay en el primer párrafo de su comunicación,
y se reservaba el derecho del Uruguay a adoptar las medidas correspondientes. Citando el párrafo 1
del documento S/L/80, que establece los procedimientos para el artículo XXI del AGCS, dijo que
"todo Miembro que tenga el propósito de modificar o retirar, con arreglo al artículo XXI, un
compromiso consignado en su Lista (el "Miembro modificante") enviará una notificación a tal efecto,con una antelación mínima de tres meses respecto de la fecha en que se proponga llevar a cabo la
modificación o el retiro, a la Secretaría, que la di stribuirá en un documento secreto a todos los demás
Miembros. Se incluirá en el orden del día de la siguiente reunión del Consejo del Comercio de
Servicio el propósito de un Miembro de modificar o retirar compromisos consignados en su Lista." En
este sentido, el orador deseaba plantear algunas cuestiones de procedimiento de importancia sistémicacon respecto al procedimiento a seguir. En primer lugar, preguntó por qué la comunicación no se
había distribuido siguiendo el procedimiento normal de distribución de documentos en la OMC. En
segundo lugar, ¿por qué se asignó al documento una signatura de la serie de documentos S/DCS/W/?
El orador observó que la recientemente adoptada actualización del informe anual de 2002 del Comité
de Compromisos Específicos estipulaba claramente en su párrafo 5 que los "proyectos de listasrefundidas y convertidas se habían distribuido en una serie única de documentos con la signatura
S/DCS/W [y que era] el acuerdo de los Miembr os [...] que estos proyectos de listas no eran
documentos jurídicos y que estaban concebidos como modelos para facilitar la presentación de las
ofertas iniciales en las negociaciones." En tercer lugar, preguntó por qué no se había incluido el punto
en el orden del día de la reunión formal del Consejo celebrada en mayo, de acuerdo con lo estipuladoclaramente en el documento S/L/80.S/C/M/67
Página 16
62. Pasando a las cuestiones de fondo, el representante del Uruguay estaba de acuerdo con otras
delegaciones en que se estaban tratando dos cuestiones diferentes: una de ellas tenía que ver con el
artículo XXI y la otra con la Lista de exenciones del trato NMF. Reiterando puntos planteados en el
documento S/L/116 y de conformidad con el apartado a) del párrafo 2 del artículo XXI y el párrafo 3
de los Procedimientos para la aplicación del artículo XXI del AGCS (S/L/80), el Uruguay se habíaidentificado como Miembro afectado y notificaba su declaración de interés. En este mismo
documento el Uruguay había dejado constancia de su objeción a la sustitución por la lista refundida de
exenciones del trato NMF adjunta al documento S/DCS/W/EEC de las listas existentes de exenciones
del artículo II (GATS/EL/31, GATS/EL/7, GATS/ EL/33 y GATS/EL/82). Concretamente, el
Uruguay observaba que no se hacía referencia a ninguna disposición ni procedimiento a efectos de la
sustitución que parecía entrañar un cambio en los documentos jurídicos existentes. El orador
consideraba que sería conveniente considerar la posibilidad de examinar las disposiciones y losprocedimientos aplicables a una sustitución de este tipo en el marco de los Acuerdos de la OMC.
Recordó que en los informes de las reuniones del Comité de Acuerdos Comerciales Regionales
relativas al examen de la ampliación de las Comunidades Europeas – Adhesión de Austria, Finlandia
y Suecia, se había registrado que varios Miembros pa recían haber mantenido posturas diferentes sobre
este tema. Dijo que tenía ante sí los nueve informes pertinentes, que incluían los siguientesdocumentos: WT/REG3/M/8, de fecha 21 de julio de 1998; WT/REG3/M/7, de fecha 19 de junio
de 1998; WT/REG3/M/5, de fecha 12 de agosto de 1997; WT/REG3/M/4, de fecha 3 de junio
de 1997; WT/REG3/M/3, de fecha 23 de abril de 1997; WT/REG3/M/2, de fecha 23 de abril
de 1997; WT/REG3/2/Add.3, de fecha 7 de julio de 1997; WT/REG3/2/Add.1, de fecha 23 de abril
de 1997; y WT/REG3/2/Add.4, de fecha 29 de abril de 1998.
63. El representante de México deseaba hacer constar el interés de su país por este punto sin
perjuicio de sus derechos. Dijo que debían respetarse los compromisos que se habían contraído.
Su delegación no ponía en duda el derecho de las Comunidades Europeas a modificar determinados
compromisos; sin embargo, declaró que esto debía hacerse en estricto cumplimiento de los
procedimientos y las directrices pertinentes. Compartía las preguntas planteadas por delegacionescomo Japón, Uruguay, Corea y Hong Kong, China, y esperaba con interés las respuestas de las
Comunidades Europeas. Preguntó además cuál era el valor jurídico que las Comunidades Europeas
atribuían a los procedimientos contenidos en el documento S/L/80 y a las directrices contenidas en el
documento S/L/5, adoptados por consenso por el Cons ejo del Comercio de Servicios. Y lo que era
más importante, ¿tenían las Comunidades Europeas la intención de cumplir las disposiciones de estos
procedimientos y directrices?
64. El representante de la India expresó su preocupación acerca de una cuestión sistémica de vital
importancia relacionada con los procedimientos de retiro y modificación de compromisos por los
Miembros. En opinión de la India, los procedimie ntos establecidos en el documento S/L/80 para la
modificación o el retiro de los compromisos no parecían haberse observado en el caso objeto de
examen. En primer lugar, el documento S/DCS/W/ EEC no se había distribuido formalmente en copia
impresa en papel a los Miembros, sino simplemente colocado en el sitio Web de la OMC para losMiembros. A juicio de su delegación, las obligaciones de notificación requerían la publicación de
copias impresas. En segundo lugar, para que la transparencia fuese la adecuada, habría sido más
acertado separar la notificación en proyecto con arreglo al artículo XXI de la notificación con arreglo
al párrafo 5 del artículo V, ya que de ese modo se habría puesto expresamente de relieve la primera y
permitido a los Miembros adoptar las medidas pertinentes nada más haber recibido la notificación conarreglo al artículo XXI. En el presente caso, los Miembros no habían tenido conocimiento de la
notificación hasta mucho más tarde. En tercer lugar, la fusión de las listas de exenciones del
trato NMF era, aparentemente, una cuestión aparte cuya base jurídica no había sido expresamente
mencionada por las Comunidades Europeas. Recordando que era la primera ocasión en que un
Miembro trataba de retirar o modificar sus compromisos con arreglo al artículo XXI, y también deaplicación de los procedimientos previstos en el documento S/L/80, el representante señaló que, a
entender de su delegación, los Miembros habrían de obrar con suma cautela para el que el precedenteS/C/M/67
Página 17
que se estableciese fuese justo y equilibrado, y no dejase abiertos resquicios legales que pudiesen
menoscabar o anular el proceso en el futuro. Por consiguiente, era necesario que los Miembros
examinasen todos los aspectos de la cuestión en su conjunto y estableciesen un precedente sólido y
transparente en una materia fundamental. Según su modo de ver, el presente caso debería
considerarse desde esa perspectiva.
65. La representante de los Estados Unidos afirmó que su delegación, al igual que otras, tenía
dudas sobre la idoneidad del modo utilizado en el presente caso para efectuar una notificación
anticipada. Observó que las Comunidades Europeas y sus Estados miembros, en su comunicación de
22 de abril de 2003, con arreglo al artículo V del AGCS (documento S/DCS/W/EEC), mostraban su
intención de retirar o modificar sus compromisos específicos y relativos a las exenciones del
trato NMF. Recordando que en el documento se hacía referencia al párrafo 5 del artículo V y al
apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo XXI del AGCS, señaló que, en opinión de los Estados Unidos, laprevista modificación de los compromisos específicos estaba sujeta a los procedimientos establecidos
en los párrafos 2 a 4 del artículo XXI y a los Procedimientos para la aplicación del artículo XXI
(documento S/L/80) adoptados por el Consejo con arreglo a lo dispuesto en el párrafo 5 de ese
artículo. Recordó asimismo que en el párrafo 1 de los Procedimientos para la modificación de las
listas se establecía que todo Miembro que tuviese el propósito de modificar o retirar un compromisoconsignado en su Lista enviaría una notificación a tal efecto, con una antelación mínima de tres meses
respecto de la fecha en que se propusiese llevar a cabo la modificación o el retiro, a la Secretaría, que
la distribuiría en un documento secreto a todos los demás Miembros. Además, el propósito de un
Miembro de modificar o retirar compromisos consignados en su Lista se incluiría en el orden del día
de la siguiente reunión del Consejo del Comercio de Servicios. La representante entendía que, en esecaso, la expresión "documento secreto" significaba que el documento no era público. Los Estados
Unidos comprendían las preguntas de otros Miem bros sobre la presentación y distribución de la
comunicación y tomaban nota de ellas, y consideraban preocupante que, con arreglo a lo dispuesto en
el párrafo 1 de los Procedimientos para la aplicaci ón del artículo XXI (documento S/L/80), el punto se
hubiese incluido en el orden del día de la presen te reunión, a pesar de que el documento se había
presentado el 22 de abril de 2003. Los Estados Unidos consideraban que la comunicación se había
incluido adecuadamente en el orden del día de la presente reunión y esperaban que ese fuese el primer
paso para una solución positiva de las cuestiones planteadas respecto de la comunicación.
La representante observó que varias delegaciones de países con distintos niveles de desarrollo habían
expresado su preocupación por el proceso y su capacidad para ejercer sus derechos. Asimismo, los
Estados Unidos indicaron que, en el contexto de falta de claridad acerca de la situación de la petición,
su alcance y los plazos aplicables, habían enviado, al igual que otros Miembros, respuestaspreliminares a la comunicación de las CE para exponer sus intereses y, al mismo tiempo, reservar sus
derechos con respecto a la resolución definitiva de las cuestiones jurídicas y de procedimiento.
No obstante, debido a la falta de claridad y al hecho de que los Miembros no habían tenido plena
oportunidad de examinar la comunicación en el Consejo hasta la presente reunión, los Estados Unidos
consideraban que, en beneficio de la equidad procesal para todos los Miembros, las medidas y losplazos aplicables en virtud de los procedimientos del artículo XXI deberían tener carácter prospectivo
tras el examen de este punto del orden del día en la presente reunión.
66. En cuanto a la cuestión de la exención del trato NMF, la representante de los Estados Unidos
observó que en la comunicación se incluían modificaciones de sus exenciones del trato NMF previsto
en el artículo II del AGCS. En consecuencia, los Estados Unidos consideraban que, en virtud delpárrafo 2 del Anexo sobre exenciones de las obligaciones del artículo II del AGCS, toda nueva
exención solicitada con posterioridad a la fecha de entrada en vigor del Acuerdo sobre la OMC
debería tratarse con arreglo al párrafo 3 del artículo IX de ese Acuerdo. En opinión de su delegación,
la modificación de las exenciones del trato NMF por las Comunidades Europeas para incluir a
Austria, Finlandia y Suecia equivalía a establecer nuevas exenciones del trato NMF que, a su vez,requerían una exención con arreglo al artículo IX del Acuerdo sobre la OMC. En consecuencia, los
Estados Unidos pensaban que, al margen de la notificación con arreglo al párrafo 5 del artículo V y alS/C/M/67
Página 18
apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo XXI del AGCS, las Comunidades Europeas tenían que solicitar
una exención para llevar a cabo la modificación prevista de sus exenciones del trato NMF.
Los Estados Unidos reconocían y admitían ante las Comunidades Europeas y sus Estados miembros la
importancia del proceso de ampliación y su deseo de llevarlo a cabo con rapidez. Era importante que
los Miembros lo tuviesen presente. Al mismo tiempo, la representante opinaba que, dado que elConsejo se enfrentaba al problema de aplicar procedimientos que nunca antes se habían utilizado, el
interés de todos los Miembros aconsejaba que tal aplicación se llevase a cabo de forma que se
garantizase la equidad procesal y se estableciese un precedente positivo y un criterio razonable.
67. El representante de Suiza tomó nota de las declaraciones anteriores e indicó que habían sido
interesantes y útiles. Coincidió con algunos Miembros en que existían deficiencias en esa primera
utilización de los procedimientos relativos al artículo XXI. Su delegación consideraba preocupante la
cuestión por su carácter sistémico y creía que, al final del ejercicio, el Consejo debería lograr unamayor claridad de los procedimientos, tanto en el caso presente como con miras al futuro. En general,
Suiza concedía gran importancia a la previsibilidad y claridad de los derechos y obligaciones
establecidos en el AGCS, que era el único instrumento que garantizaba un marco jurídico para el
comercio multilateral. El representante indicó que el mismo principio era válido para la aplicación
del artículo XXI. Recordó que su delegación había notificado a las Comunidades Europeas su deseode participar en los procedimientos basados en el artículo XXI, y que los tres países interesados
mantenían estrechos vínculos económicos con Suiza. Dada esa estrecha vinculación económica,
Suiza podría resultar afectada por el deterioro de los compromisos de esos Miembros.
El representante señaló que su delegación estaba analizando las modificaciones de los compromisos
de los tres Miembros interesados para evaluar sus repercusiones en el comercio.
68. La representante de Bolivia señaló que su delegación no consideraba que el documento objeto
de debate constituyese una notificación con arreglo al párrafo 5 del artículo V y al apartado b) del
párrafo 1 del artículo XXI del AGCS, ni con arreglo a las directrices y los procedimientos
establecidos al efecto. Por esa razón, Bolivia no consideraba oportuno presentar una declaración de
interés; sin embargo, se reservaba el derecho a hacerlo una vez que el Consejo del Comercio deServicios hubiese aclarado los pasos que habían de seguirse. La representante expresó su
preocupación por el precedente de inseguridad jurídica que podía sentarse a partir del caso en examen,
especialmente por sus efectos potenciales en los compromisos consolidados de las listas vigentes.
69. La representante de Israel observó que se habían realizado muchos comentarios sustantivos
con respecto a la comunicación de las Comunidades Europeas contenida en el documento
S/DCS/W/EEC e indicó que su delegación tenía un in terés de carácter sistémico, particularmente por
motivos de transparencia y seguridad del procedimiento. Añadió que su delegación estudiaba lasrepercusiones potenciales de la comunicación de las Comunidades Europeas para su país y se
reservaba el derecho a volver sobre la cuestión. La representante compartía muchas de las
preocupaciones y los interrogantes de las delegaciones que le habían precedido en el uso de la palabra,
en particular respecto de la conveniencia de que las modificaciones o los retiros de compromisos se
tratasen de forma que se preservase la seguridad jurídica.
70. El representante de Australia consideró justificadas diversas preocupaciones expresadas en
relación con los aspectos técnicos de la notificación de las Comunidades Europeas. Esas
preocupaciones se referían tanto a la lista refundida de compromisos específicos como a la lista
refundida de exenciones del trato NMF. El representante insistió en las deficiencias del proceso de
notificación y la inobservancia de los procedimientos a que habían hecho referencia otrasdelegaciones, e indicó que compartía la preocupación por aspectos tales como determinar si la
notificación se realizaba con arreglo al artículo XXI o al párrafo 5 del artículo V y las consecuencias
resultantes para el procedimiento de notificación, como, por ejemplo, el hecho de no haberla incluido
en el orden del día de la reunión de mayo del Consejo, la publicación del documento únicamente en el
sitio Web de los Miembros, sin facilitar copia impresa en papel, y la ausencia de versiones traducidasS/C/M/67
Página 19
a los idiomas de trabajo de la OMC. Al igual que otras, su delegación consideraba también
preocupante que en la comunicación no se hubiesen mencionado las disposiciones legales o los
procedimientos aplicables para sustituir las vigentes exenciones del trato NMF por la lista refundida.
Habida cuenta de las incertidumbres jurídicas que rodeaban la cuestión del trato NMF, como se
señalaba en su declaración de interés (documento S/L/120), Australia deseaba reservar sus derechosrespecto de todas las disposiciones y los procedimientos de la OMC relacionados con ese proceso.
De modo más general, señaló que la cuestión sistémica de establecer procedimientos transparentes,
previsibles y adecuados para la modificación de los compromisos adquiridos en el marco del AGCS
era de suma importancia como precedente, en particular porque las Comunidades Europeas repetirían
en el futuro ese proceso de notificación para tener en cuenta la adhesión de nuevos Miembros.
Agregó que el enfoque de las Comunidades Europeas podría establecer un precedente para otras
uniones aduaneras de reciente creación en cuanto a la modificación o el retiro de compromisosespecíficos con arreglo al artículo XXI, por lo que era importante que el Consejo del Comercio de
Servicios aclarase los procedimientos relacionados con la notificación.
71. La representante de Nueva Zelandia recordó que su delegación había presentado una
comunicación en el documento S/L/121, y señaló que tenía un interés sistémico en la cuestión.
Tratándose de la primera vez que se examinaba un ajuste de compromisos específicos, era importantesentar un precedente adecuado. Su delegación se preguntaba en qué medida el procedimiento
utilizado cumplía los requisitos de notificación formal, y seguía analizando ese aspecto. La naturaleza
del documento, destinado a facilitar el proceso de solicitudes y ofertas, había dado lugar a
determinadas consecuencias de tipo práctico, tales como las relativas a la distribución de una copia
impresa en papel a todos los Miembros y la falta de traducción. La representante afirmó que esasconsecuencias de tipo práctico tenían repercusiones concretas en la capacidad de los Miembros para
examinar la comunicación de las Comunidades Europeas, y señaló que el modelo establecido en el
anexo del documento S/L/5 parecía más apropiado para el tipo de notificación requerido en este
contexto. También expresó su preocupación porque el tema no se hubiese incluido en el orden del día
de la última reunión del Consejo, con arreglo a lo previsto en el documento S/L/80. En cuanto a lacuestión del trato NMF, la representante observó que era independiente de la cuestión de los
compromisos específicos y requería un proceso aparte, aún cuando tuviese su origen en el mismo
acuerdo de integración económica. En opinión de su delegación, parecía claro que los ajustes del
trato NMF previstos eran sustantivos, ya que los tres nuevos Miembros de la Unión Europea tratarían
de aprovechar las exenciones del trato NMF de que no se hubieran beneficiado antes de su adhesión.
En opinión de Nueva Zelandia, se trataba de un cambio sustantivo y debía tratarse con arreglo al
Anexo sobre Exenciones de las Obligaciones del Artículo II. Habida cuenta de las dificultadesprácticas planteadas por el procedimiento utilizado, consideraba que era importante que los Miembros
dispusiesen de más tiempo para estudiar el tema. Su delegación acogería con satisfacción las
observaciones de las Comunidades Europeas y de la Secretaría sobre la naturaleza de ese
procedimiento.
72. El representante del Canadá dijo que había tomado buena nota de las explicaciones de las
Comunidades Europeas y los comentarios de los Miembros, y que los examinaría. El Canadá
consideraba que la cuestión era importante y había notificado su declaración de interés en el
documento S/L/117, de fecha 10 de junio de 2003. Dada la importancia potencial de las
repercusiones sistémicas de la cuestión, su delegación era partidaria de que el Consejo del Comercio
de Servicios examinase más a fondo los procedimientos.
73. La representante de Tailandia se mostró de acuerdo con muchas de las cuestiones planteadas
y expresó su interés por conocer las respuestas a las preguntas formuladas por Corea; China y Hong
Kong, China. Opinó que el grado de participación en el debate ponía de manifiesto el carácter
sistémico de la cuestión en examen, y observó que muchos Miembros, que solían tomar la palabra
únicamente respecto de cuestiones de particular importancia, lo habían hecho en esta ocasión. Señalóque eran necesarias más aclaraciones y hallar una solución cuanto antes, en particular debido a que lasS/C/M/67
Página 20
Comunidades Europeas volverían pronto a experi mentar una nueva ampliación y sería preciso
disponer de procedimientos claros.
74. El representante de Filipinas dijo que entendía y valoraba las razones básicas de la ampliación
de las Comunidades Europeas y esperaba que sus observaciones se considerasen positivas, ya que su
finalidad era ayudar a los Miembros a comprender el procedimiento de ampliación, en particulardebido a que el número de miembros de la Unión Eu ropea aumentaría de nuevo en el futuro próximo.
Si los procedimientos se consideraban inadecuados, el Consejo podría estudiar la forma de mejorarlos.
En cambio, si se consideraban adecuados, el Miembro interesado podría tomar las medidas oportunas
para reconducir la situación y establecer un precedente positivo. El representante indicó que su
delegación se sumaba a las declaraciones de los oradores que le habían precedido y que deseaba
destacar los aspectos de particular interés. En su comunicación, las Comunidades Europeas habían
tratado de notificar dos tipos de modificaciones, según afectasen a las listas de compromisosespecíficos o a la lista refundida de exenciones del trato NMF. Asimismo, hacían referencia a la
sustitución de compromisos específicos, lo que, a juicio del representante, suponía el retiro y la
modificación de esos compromisos. Sin embargo, las sustituciones realizadas en la lista de
exenciones del trato NMF contenían, sin duda, nuevas exenciones de ese trato. Según el
representante, correspondía a los Miembros realizar una determinación sobre esa cuestión, que nopodía ser zanjada unilateralmente por el Miembro interesado. En cuanto a la modificación de
compromisos específicos, señaló que las Comunidades Europeas habían citado como fundamento
jurídico el párrafo 5 del artículo V y el apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo XXI del AGCS. A juicio
del representante, la aplicación del apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo XXI del AGCS requería a su
vez la utilización de los procedimientos pertinentes establecidos de conformidad con el párrafo 5 deese artículo y contenidos en el documento S/L/80. El representante destacó una disposición relativa a
esos procedimientos, según la cual el Miembro "enviará una notificación a tal efecto", y dijo que la
notificación que había de enviarse 'a tal efecto' se refería a la modificación de un compromiso
consignado en un documento legal y, como tal, sólo era posible concluir que la notificación 'a tal
efecto' debía por fuerza realizarse de forma jurídicamente vinculante mediante documentos legales yno a través de documentos no vinculantes jurídicamente o mediante la publicación en sitios Web, o el
proceso de refundición de las listas. El representante hizo suyos los planteamientos y observaciones
expuestos anteriormente por otras delegaciones.
75. En cuanto a las cuestiones relacionadas con las listas de exenciones del trato NMF, el
representante de Filipinas consideró erróneo el argumento de que su modificación podía ajustarse al
proceso previsto en el párrafo 5 del artículo V o en el artículo XXI, ya que la modificación
mencionada en el párrafo 5 del artículo V se refería a un compromiso específico. Recordó que en laparte III del AGCS se enumeraban los elementos concretos de los compromisos específicos, y entre
ellos no figuraban las exenciones del trato NMF. Añadió que los compromisos se consignaban en
listas, y que el artículo XX se enunciaban los elementos considerados parte integrante de las listas, y
entre ellos tampoco figuraban las exenciones del trato NMF. Se destacó que en el Anexo sobre
exenciones de las obligaciones del Artículo II se preveía la inclusión en papel de tratado de una listaindependiente de exenciones del trato NMF anexa al Acuerdo sobre la OMC. Según el representante,
si la intención de los redactores del AGCS hubiese sido incluir esas exenciones como parte de las
listas de los Miembros, habrían afirmado expresamente que las exenciones del trato NMF formaban
parte de las listas de los Miembros o figuraban como anexos a ellas, y no habrían establecido, en el
Anexo sobre Exenciones de las Obligaciones del Artículo II, que las listas se incluyesen en elAcuerdo sobre la OMC en papel del tratado. La conclusión del representante era que las exenciones
del trato NMF no constituían parte integrante de las listas de los Miembros ni podrían modificarse o
retirarse mediante una simple notificación con arreglo al párrafo 5 del artículo V. Por los mismos
motivos, se afirmó que el artículo XXI no constituía el fundamento jurídico adecuado para modificar
las listas de exenciones del trato NMF. Por consiguiente, el procedimiento jurídico lógico que habríade aplicarse era el contenido en el párrafo 2 del Anexo sobre Exenciones de las Obligaciones del
Artículo II, en virtud del cual "[t]oda nueva exención [...] recibirá el trato previsto en el párrafo 3 delS/C/M/67
Página 21
artículo IX" del Acuerdo de Marrakech por el que se establece la OMC. El representante consideró
que la modificación o el retiro de los compromisos específicos que constituían la sustancia de la
comunicación de las CE daba lugar a nuevas exenciones del trato NMF que deberían tratarse con
arreglo al procedimiento de exención previsto en la disposición que acababa de mencionar.
Por último, expresó su deseo de que las Comunidades Europeas reexaminasen su posición acerca delprocedimiento adecuado para notificar una modifica ción del trato NMF, expuesta en su comunicación
y su anterior declaración.
76. El representante del Brasil dijo que su delegación compartía las opiniones y preocupaciones
expuestas por las delegaciones de la Argentina, el Uruguay, el Paraguay y Hong Kong, China en
relación con las cuestiones de procedimiento y sustantivas planteadas por la notificación de las CE, y
expresó su deseo de formular dos nuevas preguntas sobre los procedimientos previstos en el
artículo XXI con objeto de aclarar qué procedimientos eran los correctos. En primer lugar, preguntó aqué se debía la inclusión de este punto en el orden del día de la presente reunión como un período
provisional, ya que las circunstancias no habían cambiado en el tiempo transcurrido desde la última
reunión formal. En segundo lugar, en relación co n la signatura del documento, se preguntó si el
hecho de que el punto figurase en el actual orden del día significaba que la comunicación se
consideraba una notificación propiamente dicha. A ese respecto, señaló que las declaraciones deinterés de los Miembros afectados se habían distribuido en la serie de documentos S/L, y que el orden
del día contenía una referencia al proyecto de lista refundida de las Comunidades Europeas, y se
preguntó si ello bastaba para cumplir el requisito de notificación.
77. El representante de Indonesia expresó su apoy o a las opiniones de otras delegaciones, como
las de la Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Filipinas y Hong Kong, China, sobre los aspectos preocupantes
de los procedimientos que deberían haber seguido las Comunidades Europeas para modificar sus
compromisos, así como sobre las cuestiones sustantivas relacionadas con el proyecto de retiro o
modificación de compromisos específicos y exenciones del trato NMF. Asimismo, se mostró
favorable a la propuesta de incluir este punto en el orden del día de la próxima reunión del Consejo si
no se alcanzaba una solución en la presente reunión.
78. La representante del Ecuador consideró que esta cuestión tenía interés sistémico y expresó su
conformidad con los comentarios de la Argentina, Colombia, Filipinas y Tailandia. Su delegación se
reservaba el derecho a volver sobre este asunto una vez que se aclarase la cuestión relativa a la
modificación de las listas. Apoyó asimismo la inserción de este punto en el orden del día de la
próxima reunión.
79. El representante de Malasia dijo que, sin duda, en el debate se habían planteado cuestiones
sistémicas y jurídicas, y coincidió en que era necesario que los Miembros las aclarasen. Hizo suya la
observación del representante de Filipinas de que el Consejo debería determinar si existían
deficiencias y, en caso necesario, adoptar las medidas oportunas. Puesto que estaba en juego la
creación de un precedente, era necesario aclarar la cuestión. A ese respecto, destacó la importancia de
que ese precedente fuese adecuado y positivo, ya que un ejemplo negativo debilitaría el sistema
establecido por el Consejo. Por último, se mostró a favor de continuar el debate de este punto en lapróxima reunión.
80. Un representante de la Secretaría puntualizó que en el curso de los debates se había dado
respuesta a buen número de las preguntas planteadas, y que limitaría sus comentarios a los aspectos
que considerase útiles. Con referencia a las cuestiones planteadas sobre el procedimiento y acerca de
la forma en que se había distribuido el documento, di jo que lo que hacía peculiar el presente caso era
que en él se combinaban dos procesos: la refundición de las listas para la presentación de ofertas
iniciales y la invocación del artículo XXI. Por consiguiente, el documento tenía un carácter dual.
Señaló que la refundición tenía efectos en la forma en que se había distribuido el documento y recordó
que, al acordarse el proceso de refundición de listas de compromisos específicos, se habían acordadoS/C/M/67
Página 22
también determinados aspectos relativos a la distribución del documento. Por ejemplo, se había
convenido en que los documentos no se distribuyesen en copia impresa en papel, debido a su volumen
y al hecho de que existían unas 130 listas de compromisos específicos. Se había acordado asimismo
que los documentos no se traducirían y que cada lista se presentaría en formato refundido en su
idioma original. Ésas eran limitaciones relativas al proceso. A ese respecto, señaló que lacombinación de los dos procesos había hecho que el documento tuviese algunas características
peculiares. En respuesta a la pregunta sobre la forma en que este punto había llegado a incluirse en el
orden del día, recordó que la cuestión se había planteado en la última reunión formal del Consejo en
Sesión Extraordinaria en relación con la lista refundida de las CE utilizada como base para la
presentación de la oferta condicional, y que en aquella ocasión se había acordado que el punto
figurase en el orden del día de la presente reunión. En respuesta a la pregunta de Hong Kong, China
sobre la causa de que este punto no se hubiese incluido en el orden del día de la reunión celebrada porel Consejo el 14 de mayo, el representante mani festó que, de conformidad con los procedimientos
previstos en el documento S/L/80, el punto debería haber figurado en el orden del día. Admitió que
tal vez la Secretaría hubiese incurrido en la omisión de no indicar a la delegación de las Comunidades
Europeas que el punto debía figurar en el orden del día, y pidió disculpas por esa omisión. Asimismo,
pidió a los Miembros que tuviesen presente que era la primera vez que se había utilizado eseprocedimiento.
81. En respuesta a la pregunta sobre la aplicabilidad de los procedimientos adoptados por el
Consejo y contenidos en el documento S/L/80, el representante de la Secretaría recordó que esos
procedimientos estaban relacionados con la aplicación del artículo XXI. También recordó que la
modificación o el retiro de listas de los Miembros se regían por el artículo XXI del AGCS. En elAcuerdo existían cinco "vías de acceso" a ese artículo, incluido el párrafo 5 del artículo V. A efectos
de consulta, señaló que las cinco vías de acceso eran el párrafo 5 del artículo V, el párrafo 4 del
artículo VIII, el párrafo 2 del artículo X, el párrafo 3 del artículo XXIII y el artículo XXI. Dejando
aparte el caso en que el artículo XXI se invocase directamente, indicó que ciertas disposiciones de las
otras cuatro vías de acceso que conducían al artículo XXI establecían alguna salvedad. Por ejemplo,en el caso de las salvaguardias, la disposición no incluía el plazo de tres años requerido en el párrafo 1
del artículo XXI. El párrafo 5 del artículo V, ya mencionado por el representante, remitía a los
párrafos 2, 3 y 4 del artículo XXI, sin hacer referencia a los párrafos 5 (no aplicable en ese contexto)
y 1 de dicho artículo XXI. El representante afirmó que la falta de referencia al párrafo 1 del
artículo XXI había planteado un interrogante acerca de la aplicabilidad del artículo XXI en su
totalidad, y señaló que ese párrafo contenía los apartados a) y b). En el primero se establecía el
requisito de que debían transcurrir tres años desde la fecha de entrada en vigor del compromiso paraque un Miembro pudiese notificar su intención de modificarlo, y en el segundo se imponía a los
Miembros la obligación de notificar con una antelación mínima de tres meses su intención de
modificar el compromiso. El representante dijo que el párrafo 5 del artículo V contenía los mismos
requisitos que el apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo XXI, por lo que no era sorprendente que las
Comunidades Europeas hubiesen hecho esa misma referencia. Añadió que el único elemento delpárrafo 1 del artículo XXI excluido en un proceso em prendido con arreglo al párrafo 5 del artículo V
era el requisito del plazo de tres años, lo que podría dar lugar a la conclusión de que el artículo XXI
era aplicable en su totalidad a la situación objeto de examen, al igual que los procedimientos
contenidos en el documento S/L/80. Por último, aclaró que su interpretación se basaba en el simple
texto de las disposiciones y que esperaba que pudiese servir de explicación a algunas de las cuestionesplanteadas.
82. El representante de las Comunidades Europeas, respondiendo a las observaciones formuladas,
recordó que, en la última reunión formal del Consejo en Sesión Extraordinaria, su delegación había
facilitado algunas explicaciones sobre los procedimientos que había seguido, e indicó que trataría de
dar respuesta a las preguntas y preocupaciones expresadas. Empezando por las cuestiones deprocedimiento, lamentó las acusaciones implícitas vertidas, según las cuales, su delegación no había
cumplido sus obligaciones u observado los procedimientos establecidos, y el documento no constituíaS/C/M/67
Página 23
una notificación o carecía de valor jurídico, y se excusó de disentir por entero. Afirmó que no
correspondía a su delegación determinar si la notificación se había distribuido en la serie de
documentos correcta, si se había presentado en uno o en tres idiomas, o si se había incluido en el
orden del día o publicado en el sitio Web. Esa cuestión se había explicado en la reunión del Consejo
en Sesión Extraordinaria así como en la presente reunión de la Secretaría. El representante insistió enque esos aspectos no afectaban a la regularidad u oportunidad de la notificación de las CE ni a los
derechos de las Comunidades Europeas. Dijo que esas cuestiones concernían a la distribución de la
notificación de las CE. Recordó que las Comunidades Europeas habían enviado la notificación
pertinente al Presidente del Consejo del Comercio de Servicios mediante carta del 9 de abril, de la que
se había enviado copia a la Secretaría. Añadió que no era procedente que las Comunidades hicieran
comentarios sobre cuestiones de procedimiento ya explicadas por la Secretaría, y admitió que el
ejercicio informal de refundición destinado a ayudar a los Miembros en la preparación de ofertasiniciales y realizar la notificación de las CE podría haber creado cierta confusión. Sin embargo,
afirmó que la notificación era clara en cuanto a las disposiciones invocadas, los procedimientos
utilizados y la intención de las Comunidades Euro peas. Aunque la confusión había sido lamentable,
el representante insistió en que los derechos de su delegación no podían ponerse en tela de juicio por
ese motivo.
83. En cuanto a algunas de las restantes cuestiones planteadas, como por ejemplo si se había
invocado el párrafo 5 del artículo V o el artículo XXI, el representante de las Comunidades Europeas
declaró que su delegación se había amparado en el párrafo 5 del artículo V, y coincidió con la
Secretaría en que ese párrafo constituía una cláusula de habilitación respecto del artículo XXI. Tales
disposiciones eran frecuentes y existían en el AGCS y otros Acuerdos de la OMC. En cuanto a lapregunta de si, a juicio de su delegación, cabí a aplicar el artículo XXI, declaró que las CE
consideraban aplicable ese artículo, e insistió en que en el artículo V se hacía referencia al
artículo XXI. También respondió afirmativamente a la pregunta de si eran aplicables las
disposiciones del documento S/L/80, ya que, aunque el párrafo 5 del artículo V no hacía referencia al
párrafo 5 del artículo XXI, en el segundo se disponía sencillamente que deberían establecerseprocedimientos para aplicar la totalidad del artículo XXI. Puesto que las Comunidades invocaban el
párrafo 5 del artículo V, que remitía al artículo XXI, era normal que se aplicase el procedimiento
establecido en el documento S/L/80. En cuanto a la pregunta sobre el órgano al que debería enviarse
la notificación, respondió que era el órgano al que la habían enviado las Comunidades Europeas, es
decir, el Consejo del Comercio de Servicios. Respecto a las cuestiones relativas a las exenciones del
trato NMF, reiteró que en la notificación se había hecho constar la intención de refundir las listas de
exenciones del trato NMF y coincidió con las delegaciones que habían señalado que esas listas nodebían confundirse con las listas de compromisos. Explicó que su delegación nunca había confundido
los dos tipos de listas, como se desprendía de la mención hecha en la notificación al párrafo 5 del
artículo V y, por referencia, al artículo XXI en lo relativo a los compromisos. En cuanto a las
exenciones del trato NMF, reiteró la opinión de su delegación de que el párrafo 5 del artículo V
facultaba a las Comunidades para ampliar las vigentes exenciones del trato NMF, sin que elloentrañase nuevas exenciones. El representante se mostró de acuerdo con quienes consideraban que en
el CACR no se había alcanzado un consenso sobre esa cuestión; sin embargo, señaló que ese hecho
no suponía que no existiese fundamento jurídico para los procedimientos. En su opinión, ésta era una
cuestión técnica y, a su debido tiempo, su delegación iniciaría los procedimientos oportunos que las
Comunidades Europeas estaban obligadas a seguir a ese respecto. Insistió en que, llegado elmomento, se emprendería el procedimiento propia mente dicho, que su delegación no había aplicado
en el contexto de la comunicación objeto de debate. Cuando las Comunidades iniciasen lo que, en su
opinión, constituía el procedimiento propiamente dicho, los Miembros tendrían oportunidad de
expresar sus opiniones. En la comunicación no se indicaba que se estuviese iniciando ningún
procedimiento concreto respecto del trato NMF y, por consiguiente, era prematuro debatir la cuestión.Las Comunidades Europeas habían iniciado el procedimiento propiamente dicho en lo relativo a los
compromisos específicos.S/C/M/67
Página 24
84. Con respecto a las observaciones sobre la transparencia, el representante de las Comunidades
Europeas mostró su pleno acuerdo y dijo que los procedimientos, requeridos por primera vez, se
habían utilizado de buena fe. Expresó su confianza en que los Miembros que tratasen de modificar un
compromiso en el contexto de la actual ronda de negociaciones seguirían el ejemplo de las
Comunidades, si bien no parecía ser siempre así en el caso de algunas ofertas. En cuanto a lasugerencia de que las Comunidades Europeas volvieran a enviar la notificación o dieran más tiempo,
el representante insistió en que su delegación, que no deseaba poner en peligro sus derechos, había
seguido los procedimientos establecidos. Añadió que su delegación había recibido 16 declaraciones
de interés y estaba dispuesta a mantener conversaciones con los Miembros, pero no lo estaba a
reenviar la notificación ya que no había actuado incorrectamente. En cambio, si los Miembros
consideraban que los actuales procedimientos no eran suficientemente claros y se requería un examen
más a fondo para aclarar su aplicación, su delegación estaría abierta a esa sugerencia. Sin embargo, elrepresentante reiteró que el debate no debería poner en tela de juicio la regularidad de la notificación
de las Comunidades Europeas. Por último, insistió en que su delegación había enviado la notificación
mediante una carta dirigida al órgano adecuado, con una clara indicación de su propósito, y expresó
su confianza en que el debate en curso aclararía plenamente estas cuestiones.
85. El Presidente señaló que los comentarios se habían realizado con un espíritu de diálogo
abierto y que varias delegaciones habían indicado que les gustaría tener oportunidad de continuar el
debate sobre esta cuestión. Solicitó a los Miembros su opinión a ese respecto.
86. El representante de Filipinas pidió más aclaraciones sobre la declaración de la delegación de
las Comunidades Europeas acerca de las exenciones del trato NMF, y señaló que, según había
entendido, las Comunidades no habían invocado o emprendido el procedimiento con objeto de enviaral Consejo una notificación relativa a las exenciones del trato NMF, y que lo que se notificaba en el
documento S/DCS/W/ECC era la intención de modificar o retirar los compromisos consignados en la
lista adjunta al documento de conformidad con el párrafo 5 del artículo V y con el apartado b) del
párrafo 1 del artículo XXI. Pidió asimismo información sobre los planes previstos y que la delegación
de las Comunidades Europeas le aclarase si había entendido mal su anterior explicación.
87. El representante de las Comunidades Europeas confirmó que la impresión del representante
de Filipinas era correcta y que, tras la última ampliación, las Comunidades Europeas presentaban la
lista refundida de compromisos específicos y la lista refundida de exenciones del trato NMF. Con
respecto a los compromisos específicos, el representante confirmó que su delegación había puesto en
marcha el procedimiento para la modificación y el retiro de determinados compromisos, había
invocado el fundamento jurídico para ese procedimiento, había indicado las fechas pertinentes y había
adjuntado la lista de compromisos que las Comunidades Europeas tenían previsto modificar o retirar.En cuanto al trato NMF, las Comunidades Europeas emprenderían a su debido tiempo los
procedimientos que considerasen adecuados. La cuestión se plantearía en ese momento y su
delegación examinaría toda posible discrepancia respecto del proceso y del fondo. Sin embargo,
consideraba prematuro examinar la cuestión del trato NMF, y aseguró que las Comunidades Europeas
estarían dispuestas a retomarla una vez que hubiesen emprendido el procedimiento, cosa que aún nohabían hecho. Con respecto a la sugerencia del Presidente, su delegación no tenía inconveniente en
examinar, en la próxima reunión del Consejo, la posible necesidad de modificar los procedimientos
relacionados con la aplicación del párrafo 5 del artículo V o contenidos en el documento S/L/80.
Sin embargo, no veía razones para examinar la refundición llevada a cabo por las CE, ya que su
delegación había observado los procedimientos previstos y facilitado las explicaciones oportunas, yno consideraba que quedasen temas pendientes de debate.
88. La representante de los Estados Unidos agradeció a la delegación de las Comunidades
Europeas su aclaración respecto de las exenciones del trato NMF enunciadas en el documento
S/DCS/W/EEC, de fecha 23 de abril, como parte de l ejercicio de refundición. En el documento se
indicaba que los documentos adjuntos sustituirían a las anteriores listas de compromisos específicos yS/C/M/67
Página 25
listas de exenciones del trato NMF a partir del 30 de abril de 2004. La representante señaló que la
cuestión del valor jurídico del documento seguía sin resolver tras los debates y que para su delegación
no estaba clara la afirmación de la comunicación según la cual las exenciones del trato NMF se
sustituirían a partir del 30 de abril de 2004. Según su entendimiento de la intervención de las
Comunidades Europeas, éstas no habían emprendido el procedimiento relativo a las exenciones deltrato NMF, y la representante preguntó en qué consistía, a juicio de las CE, ese procedimiento.
Haciéndose eco de anteriores intervenciones, señaló que los Estados Unidos consideraban que el
procedimiento adecuado figuraba en el Anexo sobre exenciones de las obligaciones del Artículo II.
A ese respecto, pidió una explicación y, en part icular, la confirmación de que las Comunidades
Europeas no habían emprendido procedimiento alguno respecto al régimen de exenciones del trato
NMF enunciadas en el documento antes mencionado, habida cuenta de su dudoso fundamento
jurídico. Los Estados Unidos estaban dispuestos a volver sobre ese punto del orden del día, pero esenuevo examen no debería tener la finalidad de aclarar el contenido del documento S/L/80, ya que, en
opinión de su delegación, el problema no radicaba en los procedimientos, sino más bien en su
aplicación por primera vez. Al tiempo que insistía en que los comentarios realizados carecían de todo
propósito recriminatorio, la representante dijo que, a su juicio, los Miembros 'víctimas' del proceso
tendrían que mantenerse en esa condición e iniciar un debate sobre la revisión de los procedimientoscuyo modo de aplicación en ocasiones anteriores seguía estando poco claro. Su delegación deseaba
avanzar, pero la representante no estaba segura de que otras delegaciones estuviesen dispuestas a
cargar con la peor parte. Según su modo de ver, era posible actuar y reconocer los problemas de
modo conciliatorio, sin echar culpas a nadie. Recordó que en la comunicación de su delegación
contenida en el documento S/L/113 se indicaba expresamente que "[s]in perjuicio de la posición delos Estados Unidos sobre si la comunicación se ha notificado debidamente en cumplimiento del
artículo XXI del AGCS y de los procedimientos para la aplicación del artículo XXI del AGCS
(S/L/80), los Estados Unidos solicitan a las Comunidades Europeas entablar negociaciones para
alcanzar un acuerdo sobre los ajustes compensatorios que puedan ser necesarios [...]". Por último,
insistió en que la comunicación de los Estados Unidos se había realizado sin perjuicio de la posiciónde su delegación respecto de la cuestión examinada por el Consejo.
89. El representante de Filipinas agradeció a la delegación de las Comunidades Europeas la
explicación de que el procedimiento de exención del trato NMF no se consideraba parte de la
notificación. Desde su punto de vista, esa explicaci ón no aclaraba a su delegación por qué se había
hecho referencia a ese procedimiento en una notificación relacionada exclusivamente con la
sustitución, la modificación o el retiro de las listas de compromisos específicos. El representante se
arriesgaba a conjeturar que la referencia a las exenciones del trato NMF se había incluido por motivosde presentación y que las Comunidades Europeas, al ofrecer la sustitución de una lista, habían juzgado
apropiado incluir la sustitución de las listas de exenciones del trato NMF. El representante recordó
que, en sus intervenciones y en la declaración de interés de su delegación, se había expresado
claramente la posición de su delegación, según la cual, en lo relativo a la modificación de las listas de
exenciones del trato NMF, parecía que el procedimiento adecuado era el previsto en el párrafo 2 delAnexo sobre Exenciones de las Obligaciones del Artículo II (relativo al trato NMF). A su entender, el
representante de las Comunidades Europeas había admitido en su intervención que era preciso hacer
una distinción entre el contenido de las listas de compromisos y el de las listas de exenciones del
trato NMF. En opinión del orador, esa distinción llevaba a la conclusión de que los procedimientos
adecuados eran los establecidos en el Anexo sobre Exenciones de las Obligaciones del Artículo II.Sin perjuicio de la posición de su delegación con respecto a la validez de la notificación, el
representante observó que, desde un punto de vista práctico, la realidad seguía siendo que la
modificación de compromisos específicos se hacía constar en un tipo de documentación no vinculante
jurídicamente. Dado que todos los Miembros habían convenido en que el documento S/L/80 contenía
los procedimientos aplicables, preguntó si los Miembros podrían consultar algún documento que lespermitiese verificar la relación de las sustituciones con las listas pertinentes en vigor. Recordando
situaciones anteriores, indicó que había habido casos en que se habían puesto voluminososS/C/M/67
Página 26
documentos a disposición de los Miembros para su examen. Su consulta en una sala reservada al
efecto no resolvería todos los problemas planteados, pero ayudaría a exponer la situación.
90. Un representante de la Secretaría, refiriéndose a la observación del representante de Filipinas,
dijo que la Secretaría no tendría problemas para distribuir a todos los Miembros copias impresas del
documento mencionado, pero que debía atenerse a la decisión de los Miembros al respecto.Con objeto de aclarar su comentario acerca de las formas de reconducir una situación en que la forma
de presentar un documento no se ajustaba a la legalidad, el representante de Filipinas dijo que era
consciente de que la Secretaría no tendría problemas para distribuir el documento. Su intención eraindicar que, en los casos en que la distribución en copia impresa en papel plantease dificultades,
cabría recordar, como alternativa, los casos en que se habían puesto a disposición de las delegaciones,
para su examen, varias copias del documento en todos los idiomas de trabajo.
91. El representante del Uruguay recordó que su principal objetivo era que se aplicasen
debidamente los procedimientos acordados por consenso en 1999 y contenidos en el documento
S/L/80. A su delegación no le interesaba únicamente examinar acontecimientos anteriores, sino más
bien determinar la forma de proceder de ahora en adelante. Señaló objetivamente que se habían
reconocido algunos errores de procedimiento. A ese respecto, recordó que la delegación de las
Comunidades Europeas había declarado que cualquie r posible problema de procedimiento era ajeno a
las CE, y señaló que respetaba esa posición, comprensible desde el punto de vista de la delegación
interesada. Asimismo, se mostró firmemente convencido de que tampoco debería achacarse el
problema a los demás Miembros. En otras palabras, si se había producido un error de procedimiento,
no parecía aceptable imputar a esas delegaciones la responsabilidad de una situación que no debería
haberse planteado. Afirmó que, al final, esa situación lesionaría también los derechos de los demásMiembros. Según sus cálculos, unas 24 delegaciones habían hecho uso de la palabra en relación con
ese punto, y 23 de ellas habían expresado su preocupación porque no se habían observado los
procedimientos establecidos. Ése era un dato objetivo, y las declaraciones hechas deberían tenerse en
cuenta. Sin duda, había surgido un problema. El representante volvió a preguntar por qué se había
distribuido el documento en la serie S/DCS/W/, ya que todos los Miembros habían acordado porconsenso que los documentos con esa signatura carecerían de valor jurídico y servirían únicamente
para preparar instrumentos de tipo del artículo XIX. Recordó que, según lo acordado por el Comité
de Compromisos Específicos y por el Consejo esa misma semana, los documentos de esa serie
carecían de valor jurídico. Aún no estaba claro por qué el documento se había distribuido con la
signatura indicada. El representante insistió en que el problema seguía siendo que el documento tenía
una signatura que, según lo acordado por consenso de todos los Miembros, carecía de valor jurídico;
sin embargo, de acuerdo con su contenido, el documento se refería al párrafo 5 del artículo V y alartículo XXI. En su opinión, la adopción de un enfoque positivo y constructivo por los Miembros
podría facilitar el avance. El representante hizo suyas las sugerencias de que el proceso podría
recomenzar sin perjuicio para quien hubiese actuado de un modo determinado, y recordó que la
inmensa mayoría de los Miembros había descubierto errores y expresado la opinión de que debían
observarse los procedimientos. Por último, expresó su confianza en la posibilidad de promover eldebate a fin de lograr un resultado satisfactorio.
92. El representante de la Argentina, con referencia al comentario de la Secretaría, opinó que el
problema había surgido por la combinación de dos procesos diferentes: por una parte, la refundición
de los compromisos, sin valor jurídico; y por otra, la puesta en marcha de un procedimiento con
arreglo al artículo XXI, que, a su vez, provocaba cambios que tenían efectos en los derechos yobligaciones de los Miembros. En el contexto de ese procedimiento de doble vía, el representante se
preguntó si la signatura que figuraba en el documento era más apropiada para contenidos de
refundición que de notificación, puesto que carecía de valor jurídico. Con respecto a la forma en que
se había distribuido la documentación, se mostró sorprendido de que el modelo utilizado no fuese el
previsto en el procedimiento obligatorio. Añadió que se habían consolidado unas 120 listas y sólo sehabía propuesto la modificación de una de ellas. En su opinión, parte de la solución podría consistirS/C/M/67
Página 27
en establecer una distinción entre los dos procedimientos y la forma en que deberían tratarse. Para
estudiar los contenidos de una oferta inicial era necesario disponer de una lista refundida en su forma
actual; para aplicar los procedimientos del artículo XXI se requería un tipo de lista diferente. Indicó
que se habían combinado dos procesos y el resultado era una situación en la que, o bien existía una
lista refundida y no una notificación, o bien una notificación y no un proyecto de lista refundida.Si existía una notificación, debería inscribirse en el registro central de notificaciones. El representante
afirmó que su delegación no tenía intención de menoscabar los derechos de las Comunidades
Europeas y que, a decir verdad, muchas delegaciones habían afirmado que ese Miembro tenía derecho
a introducir las modificaciones que considerara necesarias con arreglo al artículo XXI. Sin embargo,
otras delegaciones habían opinado que sus derechos no deberían verse afectados en ese contexto, y al
representante le preocupaba que no se hubiese respetado plenamente la integridad de los
procedimientos. Aunque se abstenía de responder a la opinión de las Comunidades Europeas de queno eran responsables de los posibles errores, consideraba que parte de la solución seguía en manos de
las CE. Muchas de las delegaciones que habían hecho uso de la palabra se habían confesado
incapaces de evaluar adecuadamente si sus derechos habían resultado afectados a causa de un error.
El representante señaló que las Comunidades Europeas habían insistido en su buena disposición, y
opinó que esa actitud podría plasmarse en el establecimiento de un plazo, a partir de ese mismo día,durante el cual los Miembros pudiesen expresarse sobre la posibilidad de resultar afectados.
Haciéndose eco de un comentario de la delegación de los Estados Unidos, dijo que no estaba
convencido de que la cuestión planteada por el documento S/L/80 se refiriese tanto a sus contenidos
como a la forma en que se habían aplicado. En su opinión, ése era el aspecto que requería aclaración.
93. El representante del Perú estuvo de acuerdo en que el objetivo no era culpar a nadie, sino
resolver un problema práctico, ya que a algunas delegaciones les preocupaba que no se hubiese
seguido el procedimiento establecido. En su opin ión, el objetivo debería ser solucionar el problema
de forma creativa y con muestras de flexibilidad de todas las partes interesadas. Proseguir en la
próxima reunión los debates sobre la forma de resolver el problema no facilitaría el logro de ese
objetivo. El representante propuso que se emprendiesen consultas con carácter inmediato para hallaruna solución ad hoc que resolviese rápidamente el problema y permitiese a las delegaciones
determinar si las modificaciones afectaban a sus intereses y al equilibrio de los derechos y
obligaciones adquiridos en la ronda anterior. Además, la solución podría establecer un plazo
razonable, por ejemplo de 45 días más o de una duración mutuamente convenida, a fin de que las
delegaciones que no lo hubiesen hecho tuviesen oportunidad de estudiar un documento refundido con
valor jurídico y pudiesen expresar sus intereses a efectos de compensación.
94. El representante de Hong Kong, China observó, a propósito de las explicaciones facilitadas,
que parecía haber coincidencia en que los procedimientos contenidos en el documento S/L/80 eran
aplicables en su totalidad a la modificación o al retiro de compromisos, aun cuando tal proceso se
iniciase por la vía del párrafo 5 del artículo V. Si ello era así, parecía lógico que las otras cuatro vías
de modificación o retiro de compromisos mencionadas por la Secretaría estuviesen también sujetas en
su totalidad al mismo procedimiento. En segundo lugar, según se desprendía de las explicaciones delas Comunidades Europeas, éstas no habían empr endido aún ningún procedimiento relacionado con la
lista refundida de exenciones del trato NMF, cosa que harían a su debido tiempo. El representante
compartía la curiosidad expresada por otras delegaciones respecto al motivo por el que las
Comunidades Europeas habían hecho referencia a la sustitución de la vigente lista de exenciones del
trato NMF por la lista refundida de la comunicación objeto de debate. Pasando a una cuestión máspráctica, y sin perjuicio de la posición de su delegación sobre el valor jurídico o la regularidad de la
comunicación, el representante dijo que seguía siendo cierto que la comunicación no se había
distribuido en copia impresa en papel ni en los idiomas de trabajo oficiales. Añadió que había tomado
nota de que la causa de ello era que la comunicación se había distribuido en la serie de documentos
S/DCS/W y se había publicado, con arreglo a lo deci dido por los Miembros, sin distribución en copia
impresa en papel o traducción a otros idiomas oficiales. No obstante, observó que los Miembros
habían llegado a un acuerdo sobre esos aspectos en el entendimiento claro de que los documentosS/C/M/67
Página 28
publicados en esa serie no se consideraban documentos con valor jurídico. Si su modo de entender la
cuestión era correcto, el documento había adquirido la doble característica de proyecto de lista
refundida e instrumento de aplicación de los procedimientos previstos en el artículo XXI.
El representante suponía que una notificación con arreglo al artículo XXI debería formularse en un
documento con valor jurídico. Si era así, el documento de las CE había inducido a confusión y seguíaplanteando un problema práctico a las delegaciones ubicadas en sus capitales, que esperaban las
versiones del documento en francés o español para determinar si sus países habían resultado afectados
por la iniciación de esos procedimientos. A su juicio, los derechos de esos Miembros también
deberían tenerse en cuenta. Su delegación estaba dispuesta a seguir examinando las cuestiones de
procedimiento que se habían planteado; sin embargo, consideraba necesario abordar con urgencia esa
cuestión práctica. Se preguntó si existían formas de tratar el problema desde una perspectiva práctica,
tal como habían sugerido las delegaciones del Uruguay y de la Argentina. Recordando que lapróxima reunión formal se había de celebrar dentro de tres meses, dijo que no estaba seguro de la
forma en que el paso del tiempo afectaría a los procedimientos pertinentes y, por consiguiente, opinó
que era necesario establecer un entendimiento más claro en la presente reunión. Aunque comprendía
que el Consejo no se hallaba en condiciones idóneas para el intercambio de ideas, se preguntó si era
posible hallar una fórmula para separar la notificación de la lista refundida, a fin de que el elementode notificación se tramitase mediante un documento publicado en la serie habitual, distribuido en
copia impresa en papel y traducido a los idiomas oficiales. En cuanto a la conveniencia de proseguir
los debates, el representante insistió en que su objetivo era aclarar los procedimientos aplicables.
Coincidió con los Estados Unidos, el Uruguay y el Perú en que los debates deberían tratar de la
aplicación de esos procedimientos, y señaló que el contenido de los debates no le había permitidollegar a una conclusión definitiva al respecto, ni para el caso actual ni para casos futuros. Añadió que
los debates habían dejado pendientes cuestiones de procedimiento y sistémicas que no se habían
resuelto satisfactoriamente con respecto a la aplicación de los procedimientos previstos en el
artículo XXI, y expresó su deseo de seguir deliberando sobre ese tema con miras a establecer un
precedente positivo.
95. La representante de Tailandia apoyó la sugerencia del Perú y explicó que una razón por la que
su país no había presentado una declaración de interés era la confusión que rodeaba ese proceso y la
falta de tiempo para evaluar si la comunicación de las Comunidades Europeas podría tener efectos
adversos para Tailandia. Afirmó que había recibido instrucciones una semana después del supuesto
vencimiento del plazo y que, en respuesta a sus preguntas, se le había indicado que su delegación no
podía ya presentar una declaración de interés. A ese respecto, manifestó que los derechos de su
delegación se habían infringido de algún modo. En su opinión, era necesario disponer deprocedimientos claros que permitiesen a las pequeñas delegaciones contar con tiempo suficiente para
evaluar las repercusiones potenciales de los compromisos de otros Miembros.
96. El representante de Singapur afirmó que la pr ofundidad del debate había puesto de manifiesto
que existían deficiencias sustantivas de procedimiento y notificación en el proyecto de lista refundida
de las Comunidades Europeas. También opinó que estaban en juego cuestiones sistémicas y que eranecesario que los Miembros hallasen una solución práctica.
97. El representante de Chile expresó su conformidad con los comentarios de la Argentina, el
Uruguay y Hong Kong, China. Para su delegación, se trataba de una cuestión difícil que afectaba a
todo el sistema. Observó que numerosas delegaciones habían expresado su interés en el logro de una
mayor claridad respecto de la aplicación de los procedimientos. En su opinión, el problema tenía suorigen en la combinación de dos procesos distintos, y era necesario hallar una solución práctica, por
ejemplo, la separación de ambos procesos, de forma que uno de ellos se aplicase mediante un
documento cuya signatura le confiriese valor jurídico y del que existiese traducción. De ese modo se
daría a todos los Miembros oportunidad de estudiar el documento y determinar si les afectaba.
El representante se mostró dispuesto a seguir examinando esa cuestión en la próxima reunión.S/C/M/67
Página 29
98. El representante de Filipinas recordó que era necesario preservar los derechos de los
Miembros en el proceso y hallar una solución práctica que permitirse formular declaraciones de
interés, y añadió que, a su juicio, existía una razón legal para tratar de alcanzar ese resultado. Citando
el párrafo 3 del documento S/L/80, señaló que "[l]as declaraciones de interés habrán de formularse
dentro de los 45 días siguientes a la fecha en que la Secretaría haya distribuido la notificación a la quehace referencia el párrafo 1 supra ", que a su vez indicaba que la Secretaría "distribuirá [la
notificación] en un documento secreto a todos los demás Miembros". El representante señaló que el
documento no se había distribuido y, por lo tanto, la distribución de la notificación por la Secretaría
no había tenido lugar. Insistió en que sus comentarios no tenían nada que ver con la opinión de las
Comunidades Europeas sobre la validez de su notificación, sino que más bien se referían al acto de
distribución por la Secretaría. Sin perjuicio de la posición de su delegación sobre la validez de la
notificación de las Comunidades Europeas, dijo que lo cierto era que la distribución no había tenido
lugar con arreglo a lo requerido por los procedimientos del documento S/L/80, que, según lo afirmado
por el representante de las Comunidades Europeas, eran aplicables. A ese respecto, el enfoque
práctico y congruente desde el punto de vista jurídico consistiría en realizar la distribución de la forma
prescrita en el párrafo 1 del documento S/L/80 y permitir que los Miembros registrasen sus
declaraciones en los 45 días siguientes a la distribución.
99. El representante del Brasil dijo que se habían dado muchas explicaciones importantes y
oportunas; sin embargo, no había hallado solución al problema. En su opinión, había tres cuestiones
pendientes. La primera se refería al documento S/L/80 y su aplicación al caso en examen. La
segunda consistía en determinar cómo se había llegado a esa particular situación de la notificación de
las Comunidades Europeas. La tercera y más importante era el logro de un acuerdo sobre la forma deseguir adelante. A ese respecto, parecía existir un consenso sobre la aplicabilidad del documento
S/L/80 a la situación planteada. El problema era que ese documento establecía calendarios muy
concretos para las medidas que habían de adoptar los Miembros. En relación con esa cuestión, el
representante señaló que las opiniones seguían siendo discrepantes a la hora de determinar si se había
adoptado la medida inicial que abría el primer pl azo. La delegación de las Comunidades Europeas
consideraba que había tomado las medidas adecuadas y, por consiguiente, había transcurrido ya el
período en que los Miembros podrían indicar si resultaban afectados. Otras delegaciones pensaban
que, por diversos motivos relacionados con el procedimiento, el plazo no había empezado.
Por ejemplo, una razón a favor de esa interpretación era que se incluía una notificación formal en un
documento sin valor legal, lo que obligaba a preguntar cómo podía tal documento poner en marcha un
proceso formal y sus calendarios conexos. El representante señaló que era importante resolver esa
cuestión en la presente reunión, ya que, si el plazo en que los Miembros podrían registrar susdeclaraciones de interés había expirado, existía un segundo plazo de 90 días para celebrar
negociaciones sobre los ajustes compensatorios. Destacó que, en ese supuesto, el segundo plazo
vencería a primeros de septiembre y, por lo tanto, cuando el Consejo volviera a reunirse, el proceso
podría hallarse en su tercera fase, es decir, el arbitraje. Insistió en que el nudo del problema consistía
en determinar si el primer período del calendario había comenzado o no, ya que las acciones de losMiembros dependerían de esa determinación. Era necesario distinguir el debate sobre la actual
situación práctica de un posible debate más general sobre el documento S/L/80.
100. La representante del Taipei Chino indicó que su delegación mantenía reservas acerca del
proceso en curso, y pidió a la Secretaría una explicación sobre los procedimientos derivados de la
notificación de las CE y del párrafo 5 del artículo V, que hacía referencia a los párrafos 2, 3 y 4 delartículo XXI. Añadió que la incertidumbre y conf usión que rodeaban el proceso eran la causa de que
su delegación no hubiese presentado una declaración de interés. Como había explicado en su
intervención anterior, el Taipei Chino, al tratar de introducir una rectificación técnica en su propia
Lista en mayo de 2002, había seguido los procedimientos pertinentes contenidos en el
documento S/L/80, entre otros. La representante afirmó que, en un momento anterior del actualproceso, su capital había hecho referencia al plazo de 45 días, y ella había respondido que el plazo de
45 días ya había vencido, a pesar de no haberse recibido copia del documento en papel, dada suS/C/M/67
Página 30
particular naturaleza. Señaló que el proceso había inducido a confusión y expresó su preocupación
por que la situación se convirtiese en un precedente para casos futuros. En segundo lugar, afirmó que
compartía la cautela expresada por los Estados Unidos respecto de la declaración de las CE de que el
procedimiento relativo a las exenciones del trato NMF no se había puesto en marcha, ya que, en
opinión de la representante, esas exenciones deberían tratarse con arreglo al párrafo 3 del artículo IXdel Acuerdo sobre la OMC. Sin embargo, existía confusión debido a que la oferta inicial de las CE se
había basado en la comunicación. La representa nte se mostró preocupada por la incertidumbre
práctica y las cuestiones sistémicas que estaban en juego, y coincidió en que lo más importante era
asegurar que se aplicasen cabalmente los procedimientos adecuados.
101. El Presidente dijo que los problemas identificados eran de importancia vital, y recordó que el
Consejo tenía la responsabilidad de supervisar la aplicación del Acuerdo en su espíritu y su letra.
Afirmó que los Miembros deberían tener presente que todos ellos debían ser tratados de forma justa yequitativa. Se mostró de acuerdo en que el tiem po era un factor importante de la ecuación, y propuso
que se organizase una reunión informal para la semana siguiente, con miras a hallar formas de superar
el actual problema práctico y, al mismo tiempo, respetar estrictamente los derechos de todos los
Miembros.
102. El representante de Malasia afirmó que la cuestión era de suma importancia, y coincidió con
otras delegaciones en que el objetivo no era culpar a nadie sino comprobar si se habían aplicado
cabalmente los procedimientos. Afirmó que los derechos de las Comunidades Europeas estaban
protegidos y que la cuestión que seguía pendiente era asegurar que los afectados por esa medida
tuviesen la posibilidad de presentar una declaración de interés, dadas las irregularidades de
procedimiento que habían privado a algunos Miembros de ese derecho. Su delegación deseaba hallaruna solución rápida y práctica, pues el representante consideraba que los derechos de su delegación
seguían envueltos en una incertidumbre que era urgente disipar.
103. El representante de Filipinas, con referencia a la sugerencia de celebrar una reunión informal,
señaló que cualquier decisión sobre la materia objeto de debate no se aprobaría antes de la próxima
reunión formal de octubre, por lo que indicó que convendría hallar otra solución.
104. El representante de México indicó que no tenía nada que objetar a la sugerencia de celebrar
una reunión informal; sin embargo, consideraba que existían elementos que requerían solución con la
máxima urgencia. Señaló que se habían expresado opiniones discrepantes, algunas de las cuales
daban a entender que se habían cumplido los requisitos, mientras que otras muchas señalaban que
había habido irregularidades en la aplicación de los procedimientos. Su delegación consideraba que
en este caso existía un problema, ya que la forma se relacionaba con el fondo. El representante estimó
que los conocimientos jurídicos de la Secretaría podrían ser útiles para examinar más a fondo lascuestiones. Coincidió en que la principal prioridad era hallar una solución práctica y que, de no
hallarla, sería necesario formular otras posibles soluciones.
105. El representante del Perú indicó que buscaba una solución constructiva y estaba de acuerdo en
estudiar la cuestión desde un punto de vista jurídico, teniendo en cuenta que el objetivo era resolver el
problema, y no complicar la situación. Señaló que una forma de proceder consistiría en suspender lapresente reunión formal y reanudarla después de que hubiese tenido lugar la reunión informal.
Ello permitiría a los Miembros reanudar la reunión formal para aprobar cualquier decisión.
El representante de Chile expresó su apoyo a esa sugerencia.
106. La representante de los Estados Unidos destacó el carácter conciliador de las observaciones
que se estaban haciendo y dijo que su delegación había esperado resolver el problema sin culpar a
nadie, mediante el simple entendimiento de que la notificación invocaba el plazo de 45 días a partir de
la presente reunión. Sin embargo, observó que otras delegaciones habían manifestado preocupaciones
de orden práctico y opinó que quizás podría hallarse una forma creativa de solucionar la cuestión conS/C/M/67
Página 31
la cooperación de todos. Tomó nota de la intervención del representante de México, pero hizo suya la
observación del Perú de que podría evitarse un análisis complejo de los procedimientos y, en lugar de
ello, encontrar un modo práctico de resolver el problema. La representante expresó sus reservas
respecto a la posibilidad de emprender un análisis jurídico; recordó que su anterior intervención había
versado sobre la diferencia entre los procedimientos y su aplicación, y que lo importante ahora eraresolver el problema práctico. Indicó que su delegación aceptaría una suspensión de la reunión para
dar tiempo a adoptar cualquier decisión ulterior, siempre que esa suspensión no perjudicase la labor
del Consejo.
107. El representante de las Comunidades Europeas reiteró la clara posición de su delegación, es
decir, que ésta había tomado las medidas normales que cualquier Miembro hubiese adoptado en la
misma situación. Los derechos de su delegación se hallaban protegidos y en vigor. El representante
estaba dispuesto a examinar cualquier sugerencia, en el claro entendimiento de que lo haría sinperjuicio de los vigentes derechos de las Comunidades Europeas en este caso, incluidos los relativos a
los plazos establecidos en los procedimientos del documento S/L/80. Era necesario dejar clara esa
posición. Añadió que estaba dispuesto a participar en cualquier reunión que convocase el Presidente,
si bien esa participación no debería poner en entredicho la regularidad de la notificación de su
delegación.
108. El representante del Uruguay dijo que la preocupación expresada por las Comunidades
Europeas era comprensible, y que la sugerencia del Presidente se formulaba sin perjuicio de los
derechos de las CE, pero también sin perjuicio de los derechos de todos los demás Miembros. En su
opinión, la sugerencia del Presidente era positiva, y la actual reunión podría suspenderse y volverse a
convocar después de que se hubiese celebrado un debate constructivo informal para hallar unasolución.
109. El Presidente indicó que se atendría a las opiniones expresadas por los Miembros y propuso
que se suspendiese la reunión.
110. Así quedó acordado.
111. Al convocar de nuevo la reunión, el Presidente recordó que había suspendido los debates del
Consejo sobre el punto del orden del día relativo a la reciente comunicación de las Comunidades
Europeas. Indicó que había aprovechado el intervalo para seguir manteniendo consultas sobre la
materia, que habían dado un resultado, que esperaba sería aceptable para todos los Miembros.
112. El representante de las Comunidades Europeas recordó el largo debate sobre esta cuestión que
había tenido lugar en momentos anteriores de la reunión, y dijo que su delegación estaba sumamente
perpleja y decepcionada a causa de ese debate anterior del Consejo. Afirmó que, el 8 de abril, las
Comunidades Europeas habían efectuado una notificación con arreglo al párrafo 5 del artículo V, yque habían observado todos los procedimientos adecuados respecto de esa notificación. Añadió que,
en el debate celebrado anteriormente, algunas delegaciones habían puesto en duda, directa o
indirectamente, la buena fe de las Comunidades en el proceso de notificación. Deseaba dejar
absolutamente claro que las Comunidades nunca habían tenido intención de poner en entredicho, bajo
ningún concepto, los derechos de cualquier otro Miembro en esa materia. Dada la muy lamentablesituación en que se encontraban las Comunidades Europeas, el representante manifestó que su
delegación había tomado la decisión sin precedentes de solicitar, mediante carta a la Secretaría, que la
notificación de las Comunidades de 8 de abril, junto con el anexo en que se enunciaban los
compromisos específicos que tenían previsto modifica r o retirar, se publicasen cuanto antes en los tres
idiomas de trabajo y de acuerdo con los procedimientos adecuados. Las Comunidades Europeasestaban dispuestas a aceptar que, a partir del momento en que se distribuyese la notificación, cosa que
el representante esperaba que ocurriese pronto, se r eabriese el plazo de 45 días para la presentación de
declaraciones de interés. Señaló que los Miembros que hubiesen presentado declaraciones de interésS/C/M/67
Página 32
tendrían que volver a presentarlas, y que, en el plazo de los 45 días siguientes a la distribución de la
notificación, todos los Miembros tendrían oportunidad de efectuar sus notificaciones si se
consideraban afectados. Al mismo tiempo, pidió que este punto figurase en el orden del día de la
próxima reunión del Consejo del Comercio de Servicios. Esperaba sinceramente que, con esta
decisión sin precedentes, los derechos de las Comunidades Europeas y de los demás Miembrosquedasen plenamente garantizados, y que se aclarase cualquier posible duda sobre la buena fe
mostrada por las Comunidades en este caso.
113. El Presidente expresó su agradecimiento a las Comunidades Europeas por su declaración y su
confianza en que los Miembros estarían de acuerdo con ella. Propuso que el Consejo tomase nota de
las declaraciones realizadas.
114. Así quedó acordado.
G. OTROS ASUNTOS
115. Como había indicado al comienzo de la reunión, el Presidente deseaba informar al Consejo de
que publicaría una nota formal del Presidente relativa al Programa de Trabajo sobre Comercio
Electrónico para su consideración por el Consejo Ge neral en el contexto de los preparativos de la
próxima Conferencia Ministerial. Indicó que la nota recordaría que en el párrafo 34 de la Declaración
Ministerial de Doha, los Ministros habían convenido en continuar el Programa de Trabajo sobre elComercio Electrónico y encomendado al Consejo General que considerase las disposiciones
institucionales más apropiadas para ocuparse del Programa de Trabajo e informase al quinto período
de sesiones de la Conferencia Ministerial. De conformidad con ese mandato, el Consejo General
había acordado, el 15 de octubre de 2002, mantener, durante el desarrollo de los trabajos hasta el
quinto período de sesiones de la Conferencia Mini sterial, las actuales disposiciones institucionales
para ocuparse del Programa de Trabajo sobre el Comercio Electrónico, a saber, que los Consejos del
Comercio de Servicios, del Comercio de Mercancías y de los ADPIC, y el Comité de Comercio y
Desarrollo, examinarían los aspectos del comercio electrónico de interés en sus respectivas áreas de
competencia e informarían al respecto. También se había acordado que el Consejo General
desempeñaría un papel central en todo el proceso, mantendría el Programa de Trabajo en continuo
examen y consideraría cualquier cuestión relacionada con el comercio que tuviera un carácter
intersectorial. En la nota se indicaría que el Consejo del Comercio de Servicios había examinado por
última vez este punto en su reunión de 4 de octubre de 2001, y que se había llegado al entendimiento
de que el Consejo volvería a examinarlo cuando algún Miembro lo solicitase. Entre tanto, no
habiéndose producido ninguna solicitud de ese tipo, las delegaciones habían dedicado su atención a
cuestiones intersectoriales pendientes de solución en el contexto de los debates específicos que se
habían celebrado con los auspicios del Consejo General. El Presidente propuso que el Consejotomase nota de su declaración, así como de todas las declaraciones de la reunión.
116. Así quedó acordado.
__________
| 22,849 | 145,592 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_WT_WGTI_W31.pdf
|
R_WT_WGTI_W31
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEWT/WGTI/W/31
8 avril 1998
(98-1449)
Groupe de travail des liens entre
commerce et investissementOriginal: espagnol
COMMUNICATION DU COSTA RICA
La Mission permanente du Costa Rica a fait parvenir au Secrétariat la communication
ci-après, datée du 25 mars 1998, en demandant qu'elle soit distribuée aux Membres.
_______________
Le gouvernement costa-ricien a l'honneur de faire parvenir au Groupe de travail des liens
entre commerce et investissement la présente communication sur les incidences de l'investissement
étranger direct sur l'économie costa-ricienne et la politique d'investissement nationale. Le Costa Rica
entend pas là contribuer au débat qui se déroule dans le cadre de ce Groupe de travail, essentiellement
au sujet des liens entre commerce et investissement ainsi que de l'identification des principaux
éléments du cadre juridique pour les investissements.
I. INCIDENCES DE L'INVESTISSEMENT ÉTRANGER SUR L'ÉCONOMIE
COSTA-RICIENNE
Les flux d'investissement étranger direct (IED) au Costa Rica ont fortement augmenté ces
dernières années, passant d'environ 60 millions de dollars par an pendant la période
triennale 1984-1986 à une moyenne annuelle d'environ 350 millions de dollars au cours de la période
triennale 1994-1996. En 1996, l'IED s'est élevé à 427 millions de dollars et l'on prévoit qu'il atteindra512 millions de dollars en 1997 et 628 millions de dollars en 1998.
GRAPHIQUE 1 (OFFSET)
COSTA RICA
Investissement étranger direct
Source: Banque centrale du Costa Rica - COMEX. Les données pour 1997 sont provisoires et
celles pour 1998 sont des projections.WT/WGTI/W/31
Page 2
L'épargne intérieure a été complétée par des apports d'épargne extérieure pour financer les
besoins d'investissement de plus en plus important s découlant du taux de croissance de la production,
qui a atteint en moyenne 4,5 pour cent pendant la période 1990-1995, et même 7 pour cent pendant la
période biennale 1992-1993.
Avec un IED par habitant d'environ 110 dollars, le Costa Rica vient au deuxième rang des
pays d'Amérique latine, malgré l'absence d'initiatives en matière de privatisation ou de conversion de
la dette extérieure en vue d'attirer les investissements étrangers. L'expérience a permis d'établir un
parallélisme notable entre l'indice de développement humain (IDH) et l'IED et il apparaît que ces deux
facteurs sont étroitement liés. L'IDH pour le Costa Rica a été ces dernières années d'environ 0,889, ce
qui place ce pays au trente-troisième rang par ordre décroissant.1
Il faut mentionner en particulier la part croissante de l'IED dans le produit intérieur brut, qui
est passée de 2,8 pour cent en 1990 à 5,2 pour cent en 1997. De même, on a pu observer une relation
étroite et positive entre l'IED et la création d'emplois.
GRAPHIQUE 2 (OFFSET)
COSTA RICA
Part de l'IED dans le PIB
Source: Banque centrale du Costa Rica, données provisoires pour 1996 et 1997. COMEX.
L'IED au Costa Rica concerne principalement les secteurs agricole et manufacturier. Les
entreprises étrangères participent aussi de plus en plus au secteur de la pêche. Dans le secteur
agricole, les investissements sont surtout destinés à la culture de la banane, de l'ananas, du melon, des
végétaux et des fleurs; dans le secteur industriel, les flux d'IED ont été destinés au secteur de la
confection et, plus récemment, à l'électronique et aux produits des technologies de l'information.
1 L'Indice de développement humain (IDH) est calculé par le Programme des Nations Unies pour le
développement (PNUD) tous les ans depuis 1990. Il prend en considération la moyenne simple de troisindicateurs: a) la longévité, mesurée par l'espérance de vie à la naissance (en années), b) le niveau d'éducation,mesuré en fonction d'une combinaison du degré d'alphabétisation des adultes (pondération des deux tiers) et destaux d'inscription combinés dans les établissements d'enseignement primaire, secondaire et supérieur(pondération d'un tiers) et c) le niveau de vie, mesuré par le PIB par habitant, exprimé en dollars.
Source: PNUD, Rapport sur le développement humain, 1997.WT/WGTI/W/31
Page 3
Dans les deux cas, il s'agit d'activités axées presque exclusivement sur l'exportation, ce qui fait
ressortir la relation importante qui existe entre l'IED et les exportations du pays, surtout du point de
vue de leur croissance et de leur diversification.2 Le graphique 3 montre les relations existant entre
ces deux facteurs.
GRAPHIQUE 3 (OFFSET)
COSTA RICA
Exportations et IED
Source: COMEX. Données provisoires pour 1997. L'échelle de gauche correspond aux
exportations et celle de droite à l'IED.
Les investissements des États-Unis viennent au premier rang dans le secteur agricole et
industriel. Il faut y ajouter des flux provenant surtout d'entreprises du Canada, de l'Allemagne, des
Pays-Bas, du Royaume-Uni, de Taiwan, de la Suisse, de l'Italie et de la Corée.
Dans le secteur des services, l'IED a été orienté principalement vers la production de services
de tourisme et de services bancaires. Les investissements dans ces secteurs sont effectués par desconsortiums européens, surtout espagnols, japonais et mexicains, et proviennent aussi de certains pays
d'Amérique centrale.
Le graphique ci-après présente une ventilation de l'IED par secteur d'activité.
2 Les textiles sont actuellement le principal produit d'exportation du Costa Rica. Néanmoins, les
investissements dans le secteur des produits des technologies de l'information devraient à très court terme placer
ces produits en tête des exportations.WT/WGTI/W/31
Page 4
GRAPHIQUE 4 (OFFSET)
COSTA RICA
IED par secteur d'activité
1990-1997
Source: Banque centrale du Costa Rica 1990-1996.
II. CADRE JURIDIQUE POUR LES INVESTISSEMENTS ÉTRANGERS AU
COSTA RICA
Il n'existe pas au Costa Rica de loi particulière réglementant l'IED, car on part du principe que
les investisseurs nationaux et étrangers bénéficient du même traitement et des mêmes niveaux de
protection. Par conséquent, il n'y a aucun cadre réglementaire particulier pour l'IED, qui est soumis
aux mêmes dispositions législatives que l'investissement national.
La constitution prévoit que les étrangers ont les mêmes droits et les mêmes devoirs que les
costa-riciens, sous réserve des limitations qui y sont définies (surtout en matière de droits politiques).
Sur cette base, la Cour constitutionnelle a statué à plusieurs reprises que toute discrimination contre
l'IED était inconstitutionnelle. De plus, les articles 45,46 et 47 garantissent une économie de marché
au Costa Rica. L'article 46 protège expressément la liberté économique, les articles 45 et 47 assurent
la protection de la propriété privée en ce qui concerne tant les biens meubles matériels et immatériels
que les droits de propriété intellectuelle.
Aucune institution n'est spécialement compétente en matière d'IED. Le Ministère du
commerce extérieur définit la politique dans ce domaine, tandis que l'Association costa-ricienne pour
les initiatives en matière de développement (CINDE , organisme privé) se charge de promouvoir l'IED.
Dans aucun secteur il n'est nécessaire d'obtenir une autorisation préalable pour effectuer des
investissements étrangers directs et aucun registre ne doit être tenu pour l'IED. De même, il n'existe
aucune restriction en ce qui concerne les transferts de capitaux et de bénéfices, les services de crédit
ou d'autres transferts à l'étranger de fonds provenant d'investissements étrangers.
L'investisseur étranger a accès aux tribunaux nationaux dans les mêmes conditions que
l'investisseur national. Il peut aussi utiliser les recours prévus par les conventions internationales
signées dans ce domaine par le Costa Rica, et notamment la Convention pour le règlement des
différends relatifs aux investissements entre un État et les ressortissants d'autres États, la Convention
interaméricaine sur l'arbitrage commercial et la Convention des Nations Unies pour la reconnaissance
et l'exécution des sentences arbitrales étrangères.
Le Costa Rica est partie à des traités bilatéraux de protection et de promotion des
investissements conclus avec la Suisse, la France, le Royaume-Uni et l'Allemagne. Il a conclu desWT/WGTI/W/31
Page 5
accords de ce type avec l'Argentine, le Venezuela, l'Espagne et le Chili et a achevé les négociations à
cet effet avec le Canada, la République tchèque et la Pologne. Il négocie actuellement des traités de
ce type avec plus d'une douzaine de pays. Les traités en question comportent des clauses concernant:
- la définition de l'investissement de l'investisseur,- l'application à tout investissement effectué après l'entrée en vigueur du traité,- l'affirmation des principes du traitement just e et équitable, du traitement national et
du traitement de la nation la plus favorisée,
- la création de mécanismes d'arbitrage,- la réglementation des cessions, de l'expropriation et de l'indemnisation.
__________
| 1,322 | 9,020 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_IP_N_1BRNC1-EFS.PDF&Open=True.pdf
|
S_IP_N_1BRNC1-EFS.PDF&Open=True
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/R_IP_C_W277A1.pdf
|
R_IP_C_W277A1
|
RESTRICTEDORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEIP/C/W/277/Add.1
13 septembre 2001
(01-4295)
Conseil des aspects des droits de propriété
intellectuelle qui touchent au commerceOriginal: espagnol
EXAMEN DE LA LÉGISLATION
Réponses du Honduras aux questions posées par les Communautés
européennes et leurs États membres et les États-Unis
Addendum
Par une communication de sa Mission permanente datée du 18 juin 2001, le Honduras a fait
parvenir au Secrétariat les réponses suivantes aux questions posées par les Communautés européenneset leurs États membres et les États-Unis, qui ont été distribuées respectivement dans les
documents IP/C/W/274 et 268.
_______________
COMMUNAUTÉS EUROPÉENNES ET LEURS ÉTATS MEMBRES
A. G
ÉNÉRALITÉS
1. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation prévoit des mesures nécessaires pour protéger la santé
publique et la nutrition de la population et pour promouvoir l'intérêt public dans des secteurs vitaux
pour son développement socio-économique et techno logique, conformément à l'article 8 de l'Accord
sur les ADPIC. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez expl iquer si ces mesures sont conformes aux dispositions
de l'Accord sur les ADPIC.
La législation hondurienne ne comporte actuellement aucune disposition, en matière de
propriété intellectuelle, visant à promouvoir ou à protéger des domaines spécifiques. Cependant,conformément à l'article 3 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, il est établi que les personnes ou
institutions juridiques soumises à cette loi ne bé néficieront d'aucune protection conférée par un brevet,
un registre ou une autorisation ni d'aucune publicité dans le Journal officiel La Gaceta , si leur nature
ou forme est contraire à l'ordre public et aux bonnes mœurs ou contrevient à toute disposition légale.
B. D
ROIT D 'AUTEUR ET DROITS CONNEXES
2. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation établit la protection des droits exclusifs des
auteurs pour leurs œuvres littéraires et artistiques, comme le stipule l'article 9 de l'Accord sur les
ADPIC, qui exige que les Membres respectent les articles 1 à 21 de la Convention de Berne et
l'Annexe de celle-ci (1971).
La Loi hondurienne sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes est conforme aux dispositions
de l'article 9 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC, ainsi qu'aux dispositions de l'article 6 bis de la Convention de
Berne (1971).IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 2
Toutes les créations originales du domaine littéraire et artistique sont protégées quels qu'en
soient le genre, le mode ou la forme d'expression, la qualité ou l'objet (article 2). La loi protège tant
les œuvres d'origine que les œuvres dérivées, de telle sorte que les créations intellectuelles énumérées
ci-après sont considérées comme des œuvres indépendantes, sans préjudice du droit d'auteur sur
l'œuvre d'origine:
• les traductions, adaptations, arrangements musicaux et autres transformations d'une
œuvre; et
• les œuvres collectives, telles que les publications périodiques, anthologies,
dictionnaires et œuvres analogues, lorsque le choix et la disposition du contenu
constituent une création originale (article 12).
Le droit d'auteur hondurien prévoit des droits moraux et patrimoniaux qui confèrent à l'auteur
la pleine disposition et le droit exclusif d'exploitation de l'œuvre, sans autres limitations que cellesétablies par la loi.
Le droit moral est personnel, inaliénable, non susceptible de renonciation et imprescriptible et
comporte la faculté de:
• revendiquer, à tout moment et en tout lieu, la paternité de l'œuvre, et en particulier
d'exiger que le nom ou le pseudonyme de l'auteur soit mentionné sur toutes les
reproductions et utilisations de l'œuvre;
• s'opposer à toute déformation, mutilation ou autre modification de l'œuvre, lorsque
celle-ci est susceptible de porter atteinte ou porte atteinte à l'honneur ou à la
réputation de l'auteur ou qu'elle fait perdre à l'œuvre sa valeur littéraire, universitaire,
artistique ou scientifique;
• conserver son œuvre inédite ou en différer la publication après sa mort;
• introduire des modifications successives dans son œuvre, après avoir indemnisé les
tiers qui auraient été lésés; et
• retirer de la circulation ou suspendre toute forme autorisée d'utilisation de l'œuvre,
après avoir indemnisé les tiers qui auraient été lésés.
Parmi les droits mentionnés, seuls les droits se rapportant à la paternité et à l'intégrité de
l'œuvre sont transmis aux héritiers de l'auteur et, à défaut de ceux-ci, au Bureau du droit d'auteur et
des droits connexes (articles 36, 37 et 38).
Les droits patrimoniaux comprennent:
• le droit de reproduction de l'œuvre, par quelque procédé et sous quelque forme que ce
soit, qu'elle soit totale ou partielle, permanente ou temporaire;
• le droit de traduction;
• le droit d'adaptation, d'arrangement ou de transformation;
• le droit de radiodiffusion;IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 3
• le droit de communication au public (récitation, représentation, exécution, projection
ou exécution publique, transmission par fil, diffusion par haut-parleurs et accès à des
bases de données et toute autre forme, y compris la mise à la disposition du public de
l'œuvre de manière que les membres du public puissent y accéder dans le lieu et au
moment de leur choix);
• droit de distribution par la vente, la location, le prêt public ou toute autre forme de
transfert de propriété ou de possession;
• le droit de location d'œuvres audiovisuelles, d'œuvres incorporées à un enregistrement
sonore et de programmes d'ordinateur;
• le droit d'importation; et
• en cas de revente d'exemplaires d'une œuvre des beaux-arts ou de manuscrits
originaux d'écrivains ou de compositeurs, dans une vente aux enchères ou parl'intermédiaire d'un marchand d'œuvres d'art, le droit de percevoir cinq pour cent
(5%) du prix de revente.
Ces droits sont réglementés dans les articles 39 et 43 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et ne
comportent pas d'autres limitations que celles établies par la Convention de Berne. Les dispositionsprécédentes s'entendent sans préjudice de la faculté permettant au Honduras, en tant que pays en
développement, d'exercer les droits prévus dans les articles II et III de l'Annexe de la Convention de
Berne.
Les droits patrimoniaux, exercés sur les œuvres dont le délai de protection peut être calculé
sur la base de la vie physique de l'auteur, sont protégés pendant la durée de la vie de l'auteur et
soixante-quinze (75) ans après sa mort (article 44).
Pour les œuvres dont le délai de protection ne peut être calculé sur la base de la vie de
l'auteur, les droits patrimoniaux sont protégés pendant soixante-quinze (75) ans à compter de la
divulgation ou de la publication de l'œuvre ou, à défaut de celle-ci, à compter de sa réalisation,
conformément aux dispositions de l'article 12 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC (article 45). Cependant, lesœuvres photographiques sont protég ées pendant cinquante (50) ans.
3. Veuillez décrire la protection accordée aux auteurs de programmes d'ordinateur, de bases de
données ou de compilations de données.
La Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes établit dans l'article 2 que toutes les
créations originales, quels qu'en soient le genre, le mode ou la forme d'expression, la qualité et l'objet,
sont considérées comme des œuvres littéraires ou artistiques. Le même article inclut une liste, à titre
d'exemple, des œuvres protégées parmi lesquelles figurent les programmes d'ordinateur. Les
programmes d'ordinateur sont protégés en tant qu'œuvres littéraires et les bases de données en tant quecompilations, pour autant qu'ils constituent une création originale (article 2). Les droits conférés aux
créateurs de ces œuvres sont identiques aux droits mentionnés dans la réponse à la question n° 2,
parmi lesquels figure explicitement le droit de location sur les programmes d'ordinateur,
indépendamment de la titularité des droits sur l'exemplaire (article 39). En outre, les articles 32, 33
et 34 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes prévoient d'autres dispositions spécifiquespour la protection des programmes d'ordinateur.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 4
4. Veuillez préciser si votre législation prévoit le droit de location et, dans l'affirmative, veuillez
mentionner les œuvres concernées par ce droit.
La loi hondurienne prévoit, parmi les droits patrimoniaux conférés à l'auteur d'une œuvre, le
droit d'autoriser ou d'interdire toute forme de distribution de son œuvre, comme la location. De plus,une disposition spécifique reconnaît le droit de location d'un exemplaire d'une œuvre audiovisuelle,
d'une œuvre incorporée à un enregistrement sonore et d'un programme d'ordinateur (article 39).
5. Veuillez décrire les droits conférés aux artistes interprètes ou exécutants, aux producteurs de
phonogrammes (enregistrements sonores) et aux organismes de radiodiffusion en vertu de votre
législation.
Artistes interprètes ou exécutants
L'article 113 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes dispose que les artistes
interprètes ou exécutants ont le droit exclusif d'autoriser les actes suivants:
a) la radiodiffusion de leurs interprétations ou exécutions;
b) la communication au public de leurs interprétations ou exécutions;c) la fixation de leurs interprétations ou exécutions non fixées;d) la reproduction d'une fixation de leurs interprétations ou exécutions;e) la première distribution au public d'une fixation de leurs interprétations ou
exécutions;
f) la location ou le prêt au public d'une fixation de leurs interprétations ou exécutions;g) la mise à la disposition du public, avec ou sans fil, de leurs interprétations ou
exécutions fixées sur un phonogramme, de telle sorte que chacun puisse avoir accès à
celles-ci dans le lieu et au moment qu'il choisit individuellement.
Producteurs de phonogrammes
L'article 118 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes établit que les producteurs de
phonogrammes ont le droit exclusif d'autoriser ou d'interdire la reproduction directe ou indirecte, la
communication et la distribution au public de leurs phonogrammes par la vente, la location,l'importation ou tout autre moyen, y compris la mise à la disposition du public de copies de leurs
phonogrammes par quelque moyen que ce soit, de telle sorte que les membres du public puissent avoir
accès à ceux-ci dans le lieu et au moment de leur choix, ou toute autre forme d'utilisation de leurs
phonogrammes.
Organismes de radiodiffusion
L'article 119 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes dispose que les organismes
de radiodiffusion jouissent du droit exclusif d'autoriser ou d'interdire:
a) la fixation de leurs émissions;
b) la reproduction des fixations de leurs émissions;IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 5
c) la retransmission de leurs émissions; et
d) la communication au public de leurs émissions lorsqu'il s'agit d'émissions de
télévision et que celles-ci s'effectuent dans des lieux accessibles au public moyennant
le paiement d'un droit d'entrée.
6. Veuillez préciser si votre législation prévoit une limitation ou une exception concernant
chacun des droits décrits ci-dessus, conformément aux dispositions pertinentes des Conventions de
Berne et de Rome et à la lumière des articles 13 et 14:6 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC.
Artistes interprètes ou exécutants
Les droits prévus en faveur des artistes interprètes ou exécutants ne s'appliquent pas à:
• la radiodiffusion de leurs interprétations ou exécutions qui est effectuée à partir d'une
fixation des interprétations ou exécutions ou qui est une rediffusion autorisée par les
organismes de radiodiffusion; et
• la communication au public de leurs interprétations ou exécutions qui est réalisée à
partir d'une fixation ou d'une radiodiffusion des interprétations ou exécutions(article 113).
Producteurs de phonogrammes
Les droits prévus en faveur des producteurs de phonogrammes ne s'appliquent pas lorsque les
actes concernant les phonogrammes ont pour objet:
• l'utilisation pour un usage privé; et
• l'utilisation à des fins d'enseignement ou de recherche (article 121).
Organismes de radiodiffusion
Les droits prévus en faveur des organismes de radiodiffusion ne s'appliquent pas en cas de
reproduction de la fixation de leurs émissions, lorsqu'il s'agit:
• d'utilisations pour un usage privé (article 121);
• d'une utilisation de fragments d'une durée maximale de soixante (60) secondes à des
fins d'information sur des événements d'actualité (article 121);
• de fixations éphémères réalisées par un organisme de radiodiffusion, par ses propres
moyens et pour ses propres émissions (article 121); et
• d'utilisations à des fins d'enseignement ou de recherche exclusivement (article 119).
7. Veuillez préciser la durée de la protection relative à chaque droit décrit précédemment et
l'œuvre ou la matière à laquelle le droit s'applique.
La durée de la protection des droits prévus en faveur des artistes interprètes ou exécutants est
de soixante-quinze (75) ans à compter de la fin de l'année où a eu lieu l'interprétation ou l'exécution sicelle-ci n'est pas enregistrée sur un phonogramme ou à compter de la fin de l'année de la fixation deIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 6
l'interprétation ou exécution si celle-ci est fixée sur un phonogramme (article 120 de la Loi sur le droit
d'auteur et les droits connexes).
La durée de la protection des droits prévus en faveur des producteurs de phonogrammes est de
soixante-quinze (75) ans à compter de la fin de l'année où la fixation a été réalisée (article 120 de laLoi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes).
La durée de la protection des droits prévus en faveur des organismes de radiodiffusion est de
soixante-quinze (75) ans à compter de la fin de l'année où l'émission a été réalisée (article 120 de la
Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes).
8. Veuillez indiquer comment la législation de votre pays accorde la protection rétroactive
applicable en vertu de l'article 18 de la Convention de Berne (obligation qui tire son origine de
l'article 9 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC) et de l'article 14:6 de cet Accord.
L'article 190 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes établit que les dispositions de
cette loi s'appliquent:
a) aux œuvres qui ont été créées avant la date d'entrée en vigueur de la présente loi, à
condition que ces œuvres ne soient pas tombées dans le domaine public du fait de
l'expiration de la durée de protection prévue à leur égard par la législation précédente
ou la législation de leur pays d'origine;
b) aux interprétations ou exécutions qui ont eu lieu ou qui ont été fixées avant la date
d'entrée en vigueur de la présente loi, à condition que ces interprétations ou
exécutions ne soient pas tombées dans le domaine public du fait de l'expiration de la
durée de protection prévue à leur égard par la législation précédente ou la législationde leur pays d'origine;
c) aux phonogrammes qui ont été fixés avant la date d'entrée en vigueur de la présente
loi, à condition que ces phonogrammes ne soient pas tombés dans le domaine public
du fait de l'expiration de la durée de protection prévue à leur égard par la législation
précédente ou la législation de leur pays d'origine; et
d) aux émissions qui ont eu lieu avant la date d'entrée en vigueur de la présente loi, à
condition que ces émissions de radiodiffusion ne soient pas tombées dans le domaine
public du fait de l'expiration de la durée de protection prévue à leur égard par la
législation précédente ou la législation de leur pays d'origine.
C. M
ARQUES DE FABRIQUE OU DE COMMERCE
9. Veuillez donner la définition du signe conformément à votre législation nationale et expliquer
sous quelles conditions il fait l'objet d'une protection.
Conformément aux articles 79:2 et 82 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, une marque est
constituée par tout signe visible propre à distinguer les produits ou les services d'une entreprise des
produits ou services d'autres entreprises. Les marques peuvent être des dénominations issues de
l'imagination, noms, pseudonymes, devises commerciales, figures, portraits, lettres, chiffres,
monogrammes, étiquettes, écussons, impressions, vignettes, bordures, lignes, bandes, combinaisons et
dispositions de couleurs. Les marques peuvent également consister en la forme, la présentation oul'arrangement des produits ou de leurs emballages, ou des moyens ou lieux de vente des produits ou
services correspondants, et en des indications géographiques, nationales et étrangères, à condition
qu'elles soient suffisamment indépendantes et distinctives en ce qui concerne les produits ou servicesIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 7
auxquels elles s'appliquent et que leur utilisation ne soit pas susceptible de prêter à confusion ou
d'entraîner dans l'esprit des consommateurs une attente erronée ou injustifiée quant à l'origine, la
provenance, les qualités ou les caractéristiques des produits ou services pour lesquels les marques sont
utilisées.
Les seules conditions requises pour sa protection sont:
a) que le signe soit visible;b) qu'il soit propre à distinguer les produits ou services auxquels il s'applique; etc) qu'il soit enregistré dans un pays, excepté dans le cas des marques notoires.
10. Veuillez confirmer si les services constituent une matière faisant l'objet d'une protection par
votre législation sur les marques. Veuillez également confirmer si les signes tels que les noms
commerciaux peuvent jouir d'une protection. Veuillez indiquer s'il est possible d'accorder une
protection aux éléments tels que les sons, les parfums et les emballages.
Conformément à la définition d'une marque dans l'article 79:2 de la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle, la protection d'une marque est concédée pour identifier aussi bien des produits que des
services. Les noms, dénominations ou signes qui identifient ou distinguent une entreprise ou un
établissement font également l'objet d'une prot ection prévue par les dispositions sur les noms
commerciaux, les emblèmes et les enseignes (articles 79:4, 79:5 et 79:6, 118, 119, 120 et 122 de la
Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
Les parfums et les sons en eux-mêmes ne font pas l'objet d'une protection en tant que
marques, puisque la loi requiert que les signes que l'on souhaite enregistrer pour identifier desproduits ou des services soient visibles (article 79:2 de la loi mentionnée).
11. Veuillez préciser s'il existe des prescriptions d'utilisation comme condition pour enregistrer
une marque de fabrique ou de commerce. Veuillez également donner la définition de l'exploitation et
préciser les conditions de maintien d'un dépôt à cet égard.
Conformément à la législation hondurienne, il n'est pas nécessaire de prouver l'usage
préalable d'une marque pour demander ou obtenir son enregistrement; cependant, il est possible de
faire opposition à l'enregistrement d'une marque, en se fondant sur l'usage antérieur du signe, à
condition que l'enregistrement de la marque utilisée soit demandé au moment de l'opposition
(article 90 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
Le non-usage d'une marque permet son annulation, à la requête de la partie intéressée. Dans
ce cas, le non-usage doit avoir eu lieu, de manière ininterrompue, pendant les trois (3) ans précédant
la date à laquelle l'action en annulation a débuté (article 106 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
Aux fins de ce qui précède, une marque est considérée comme exploitée lorsque les produits
ou services qu'elle distingue ont été commercialisés ou sont disponibles sur le marché sous cette
marque, dans la quantité et de la manière qui lui sont propres, en tenant compte de l'importance du
marché national, de la nature des produits ou services concernés et des modalités selon lesquelles
s'effectue leur commercialisation sur le marché hondurien (article 81 de la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle).
L'annulation de l'enregistrement ne sera pas déclarée lorsque le non-usage est dû à des faits ou
des circonstances qui sont indépendants de la volonté du titulaire de la marque et que celui-ci n'a pu
éviter ou rectifier. L'insuffisance de ressources économiques ou techniques permettant de réaliser uneIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 8
activité productive ou commerciale et le manque de demande du produit ou du service que la marque
distingue ne sont pas considérés comme des motifs justifiés (article 107:1 de la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle).
Lorsque le non-usage d'une marque ne concerne qu'un ou plusieurs produits ou services pour
lesquels la marque a été enregistrée, l'enregistrement est annulé uniquement pour les produits ou
services à l'égard desquels la marque n'a pas été utilisée, ce qui se traduit par une réduction de la liste
de produits ou de services protégés par la marque (article 107:2 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
L'utilisation de la marque par le détenteur d'une licence ou par une autre personne autorisée à
cet effet sera considérée comme effectuée par le titulaire de l'enregistrement aux fins relatives à
l'utilisation de la marque (article 107:3 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
12. Veuillez confirmer si la législation de votre pays permet ou non que l'enregistrement de
marques de fabrique ou de commerce soit renouvelable indéfiniment.
Conformément aux articles 92 et 93 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, le délai de
protection initial d'une marque enregistrée est de dix ans à compter de la date de concession de
l'enregistrement et peut être renouvelé indéfiniment par périodes successives de dix ans, pour autant
que la demande de renouvellement correspondante soit introduite et que la taxe de maintien due soit
payée.
13. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez décrire les conditions spéciales prévues par la législation de votre
pays en ce qui concerne l'exploitation d'une marque de fabrique ou de commerce.
Pour considérer qu'une marque est exploitée, les produits ou services qu'elle distingue doivent
avoir été commercialisés ou doivent être disponibles sur le marché sous cette marque, dans la quantitéet de la manière qui lui sont propres, en tenant compte de l'importance du marché national, de la
nature des produits ou services concernés et des modalités selon lesquelles s'effectue leur
commercialisation sur le marché hondurien (article 81 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
L'utilisation de la marque par le détenteur d'une licence ou par une autre personne autorisée à
cet effet sera considérée comme effectuée par le titulaire de l'enregistrement aux fins relatives à
l'utilisation de la marque (article 107 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
L'utilisation d'une marque sous une forme qui diffère de la forme sous laquelle elle a été
enregistrée, uniquement quant aux détails ou aux éléments qui n'altèrent pas le caractère distinctif de
la marque, ne motivera pas l'annulation de l'enregistrement et ne réduira pas la protection conférée la
marque (article 107 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
D. I
NDICATIONS GÉOGRAPHIQUES
14. Veuillez indiquer si l'organisme responsable de l'enregistrement de marques dans votre pays
refuse ou non une demande de marque si celle-ci contient une indication géographique.
La Loi hondurienne sur la propriété industrielle (article 123) interdit l'usage dans le
commerce, pour un produit ou un service, d'indications géographiques qui sont fausses ou trompeuses
quant à l'origine du produit ou du service ou dont l'utilisation peut entraîner une confusion dans
l'esprit des consommateurs quant à l'origine, la provenance, la qualité ou toute autre caractéristique du
produit ou du service.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 9
De même, cette loi interdit l'enregistrement de marques qui:
• peuvent tromper les milieux commerciaux ou le public quant à la provenance, la
nature, le mode de fabrication, les qualités, la capacité d'utilisation ou de
consommation, la quantité ou toute autre caractéristique des produits ou servicesconcernés (article 83:9); ou
• consistent en une indication géographique qui n'est pas suffisamment indépendante
ou distinctive par rapport aux produits ou services auxquels elles s'appliquent
(articles 82 et 83:11).
15. Veuillez donner la définition de l'indication gé ographique conformément à la législation de
votre pays.
La Loi hondurienne sur la propriété industrielle définit l'indication géographique comme le
nom, la dénomination, l'expression, l'image ou le signe qui indique directement ou indirectement
qu'un produit ou un service provient d'un pays, d'un ensemble de pays, d'une région, d'une localité ou
d'un lieu déterminé (article 79:8).
16. Veuillez décrire et expliquer les dispositions de votre législation par lesquelles un lien est
établi, le cas échéant, entre les caractéristiques d'une indication et son origine géographique.
Conformément à la loi hondurienne, toutes les indications géographiques font référence à
l'origine d'un produit. Lorsque les indications géographiques font en outre référence à des
caractéristiques du produit qui sont dues à l'origine géographique où ce produit est fabriqué, y comprisles facteurs naturels et humains, elles sont désignées par "appellations d'origine" (article 79:8 et 79:9
de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
La législation hondurienne réglemente la protection des appellations d'origine nationales et,
quant aux appellations étrangères, elle renvoie aux dispositions correspondantes des traités concluspar le Honduras.
17. Veuillez expliquer comment la législation de votre pays prévoit une protection additionnelle
pour les vins et les spiritueux. Veuillez mentionner d'autres types de produits, le cas échéant,
concernés par cette protection additionnelle.
L'article 23:2 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC établit l'obligation pour les pays membres de refuser
ou d'invalider l'enregistrement d'une marque qui contient une indication géographique identifiant des
vins ou des spiritueux, principalement en raison de la qualité de ces produits compte tenu de leur
origine géographique et des facteurs naturels des régions dans lesquelles ils sont produits. La
législation hondurienne établit que les appellations d'origine étrangères sont protégées conformément
aux dispositions des traités conclus à ce sujet pa r le Honduras, dont fait partie l'Accord sur les
ADPIC.
18. Veuillez expliquer de quelle manière les exceptions prévues à l'article 24 de l'Accord sur les
ADPIC sont utilisées dans votre juridiction. Veuillez fournir des exemples d'utilisation des exceptions
par des tribunaux ou des listes de noms considérés comme génériques par votre juridiction.
La Loi hondurienne sur la propriété industrielle (article 127:3) dispose que l'appellation
commune ou générique d'un produit ne peut pas être enregistrée comme appellation d'origine. À cet
effet, une appellation est considérée comme commune ou générique lorsqu'elle est considérée en tantIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 10
que telle aussi bien par les spécialistes du type de produits auquel elle s'applique que par le public en
général. Il n'existe pas de liste d'appellations d'origine considérées comme génériques.
E. DESSINS ET MODÈLES INDUSTRIELS
19. Veuillez préciser si votre législation étend ou non la protection aux dessins et modèles
essentiellement dictés par des considérations techniques ou fonctionnelles. Veuillez expliquer
comment les dessins et modèles de textiles sont protégés.
L'article 29:3 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle établit qu'un dessin industriel dont
l'apparence est entièrement dictée par des considérations d'ordre technique ou par la réalisation d'une
fonction technique, qui n'apportent aucune contribution indépendante du dessinateur, ne peut être
enregistré. Il n'existe pas de disposition spéciale ou additionnelle pour la protection des dessins detextiles.
20. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation protège les titulaires de droits d'un dessin ou
modèle contre l'importation d'articles port ant un dessin ou un modèle incorporé ou copié.
L'article 31 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle établit que la protection d'un dessin
industriel confère à son titulaire le droit d'agir contre toute personne qui, sans son autorisation,
fabrique, vend, offre à la vente, ou utilise, importe ou stocke à ces fins, un produit qui reproduit ou
incorpore le dessin industriel protégé.
21. Veuillez indiquer si la législation de votre pays confère ou non le droit de délivrer une licence
obligatoire pour les dessins et modèles industriels.
Conformément à l'article 64 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, les dispositions relatives
aux brevets d'invention sont applicables en ce qui concerne les dessins industriels. En matière debrevets d'invention, cette législation admet la possibilité de concéder des licences obligatoires dans les
cas de non-usage, d'intérêt public, d'urgence nationale, de nutrition, de santé publique, de sécurité
nationale et, dans les cas où la licence se rapporte à la technologie des semi-conducteurs, lorsqu'elle a
pour objet un usage public non commercial en faveur d'une autorité publique ou d'une autre personne
qui agit pour le compte de celle-ci ou lorsque la licence a pour objet de rectifier une pratique
anticoncurrentielle (articles 65, 67:2 et 70 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
22. Veuillez préciser la durée de la protection accordée par la législation de votre pays aux
dessins et modèles industriels.
Conformément à l'article 33 de la Loi sur la pr opriété industrielle, l'enregistrement d'un dessin
industriel expirera cinq (5) ans après la date de dépôt de la demande au bureau d'enregistrement duHonduras. L'enregistrement pourra être prolongé pour deux périodes supplémentaires de cinq (5) ans
chacune.
F. B
REVETS
23. Veuillez expliquer comment la législation de votre pays définit les concepts de nouveauté,
d'invention et d'application industrielle.
Conformément à la législation hondurienne, une invention est considérée comme innovante
lorsqu'elle n'est pas comprise dans l'état de la techni que. L'état de la technique inclut tout ce qui a été
divulgué ou rendu accessible au public, où que ce soit dans le monde, avant la date de dépôt de lademande de brevet au Honduras ou avant la date de dépôt de la demande étrangère dont la priorité est
revendiquée, selon le cas. Il est considéré que l'état de la technique comprend également le contenuIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 11
d'une demande de brevet en cours de traitement, dont la date de dépôt est antérieure à celle de la
demande examinée, mais uniquement dans la mesure où ce contenu était inclus dans la demande de
date antérieure lorsque celle-ci a été publiée.
Afin de déterminer l'état de la technique, la divulgation, qui a eu lieu au cours de l'année
précédant la date de dépôt de la demande au Honduras ou, selon le cas, au cours de l'année précédant
la date de dépôt de la demande dont la priorité est revendiquée, n'est pas prise en considération, à
condition que cette divulgation ait été le résultat d'actes réalisés par le déposant ou son ayant cause ou
d'un abus, d'une inexécution ou d'un acte illicite réalisé contre l'un d'eux (article 9 de la Loi sur la
propriété industrielle).
Il est considéré qu'une invention implique une activité inventive si, d'après le jugement d'une
personne versée dans le domaine concerné, cette invention ne s'avère pas évidente et ne dérive pas
d'une manière évidente de l'état de la technique (article 10 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
Une invention est considérée comme susceptible d'application industrielle lorsqu'elle peut être
produite ou utilisée dans tout type d'industrie. À cet effet, l'expression "industrie" s'entend dans sonsens le plus large et comprend, entre autres, l'artisanat, l'agriculture, l'industrie minière, la pêche et les
services (article 8 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
24. Veuillez préciser si la législation de votre pays prévoit l'octroi de brevets ou de droits de
brevets sans aucun type d'exclusion. S'il existe des exclusions, veuillez expliquer en détail commentcelles-ci sont appliquées en termes légaux et pratiques.
La loi hondurienne permet de jouir des droits prévus pour les inventions sans aucun type de
discrimination liée au lieu de l'invention, au domaine de la technologie ou au fait que les produits
soient importés ou produits dans le pays. Les seules exceptions prévues sont contenues dansl'article 7 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, qui indique que ne sont pas brevetables:
a) les procédés essentiellement biologiques d'obtention ou de reproduction de plantes,
d'animaux ou de leurs variétés, y compris les procédés génétiques ou relatifs à du
matériel capable de se reproduire, spontanément ou indirectement, lorsque ces
procédés consistent à sélectionner ou isoler du matériel biologique disponible et à le
laisser agir dans des conditions naturelles;
b) les variétés et espèces végétales et les espèces et races animales; etc) les méthodes diagnostiques, thérapeutiques et chirurgicales (article 5:9 de la Loi sur
la propriété industrielle).
25. Veuillez préciser si votre législation prévoit que des inventions soient exclues de la
brevetabilité en se fondant sur l'ordre public ou la moralité. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez expliquer
l'article correspondant de votre législation, ainsi que sa formulation. Nous souhaiterions également
savoir si cet article a été appliqué dans la pratique.
La loi hondurienne ne prévoit pas que des inventions soient exclues de la brevetabilité pour
des motifs d'ordre public ou moral, ce qui ne signifie pas que la commercialisation de ces inventions
ne puisse être empêchée.
26. Veuillez préciser si les méthodes diagnostiques, thérapeutiques et chirurgicales sont exclues
de la brevetabilité selon votre législation. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez expliquer la section
correspondante de votre législation, ainsi que sa formulation.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 12
Les méthodes diagnostiques, thérapeutiques et chirurgicales sont exclues de la brevetabilité
(article 5:9 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
27. Veuillez préciser si les plantes, les animaux et essentiellement les procédés biologiques sont
ou non exclus de la brevetabilité selon votre législation. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez expliquerl'article correspondant de votre législation, ainsi que sa formulation.
Conformément à la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, ne sont pas brevetables:
• les procédés essentiellement biologiques d'obtention ou de reproduction de plantes,
d'animaux ou de leurs variétés, y compris les procédés génétiques ou relatifs à du
matériel capable de se reproduire, spontanément ou indirectement, lorsque ces
procédés consistent à sélectionner ou isoler du matériel biologique disponible et à le
laisser agir dans des conditions naturelles (article 7:1); et
• les variétés et espèces végétales et les espèces et races animales (article 7:2 de la Loi
sur la propriété industrielle).
Pour ce qui est des variétés végétales, un projet de loi, qui se trouve actuellement au Congrès
souverain national, se conforme aux dispositions de la Convention de l'UPOV, selon l'acte de 1991.L'avant-projet de loi pour la protection d'obtentions végétales se trouve en annexe.
28. Veuillez décrire de quelle manière et en vertu de quelles dispositions les micro-organismes,
les procédés non essentiellement biologiques, les procédés microbiologiques et les obtentions
végétales sont protégés par votre législation. Veuillez expliquer à cet égard les articlescorrespondants de votre législation.
Étant donné qu'ils ne sont pas exclus de la brevetabilité, les micro-organismes, les procédés
non essentiellement biologiques et les procédés microbiologiques peuvent être brevetés, pour autant
qu'ils répondent aux conditions de nouveauté, d'activité inventive et d'application industrielle.
29. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation protège les titulaires de droits de brevets contre
l'importation et l'offre à la vente d'une invention brevetée.
Conformément à l'article 17 de la Loi sur la pr opriété industrielle, le brevet confère à son
titulaire le droit d'exclure des tiers de l'invention brevetée. À cet effet, lorsque le brevet est concédé
pour un produit, le titulaire a le droit d'agir contre toute personne qui, sans son autorisation:
a) fabrique le produit breveté;b) offre à la vente, vend ou utilise le produit breveté; ou
c) importe ou stocke le produit breveté dans le but de l'utiliser, de le vendre ou de l'offrir
à la vente.
Lorsque le brevet a été concédé pour un procédé, le titulaire a le droit d'agir contre toute
personne qui, sans son autorisation:
a) utilise le procédé breveté;b) fabrique le produit directement obtenu par le procédé breveté;IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 13
c) offre à la vente, vend ou utilise le produit obtenu par le procédé breveté; ou
d) importe ou stocke le produit obtenu par le procédé breveté dans le but de l'utiliser, de
le vendre ou de l'offrir à la vente.
30. Veuillez indiquer si la législation de votre pays prévoit la protection par brevet de produits
chimiques pharmaceutiques et agricoles. Dans l'af firmative, veuillez indiquer la référence juridique.
La Loi hondurienne sur la propriété industrielle n'exclut pas de la brevetabilité les produits
pharmaceutiques et agrochimiques, pour autant que ceux-ci répondent aux conditions de nouveauté,
d'activité inventive et d'application industrielle.
31. Veuillez préciser si la protection conférée par le brevet d'un procédé, telle qu'elle est prévue
par votre législation, couvre le produit obtenu directement par ce procédé.
Oui. L'article 17 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle prévoit, parmi les droits conférés au
titulaire d'un brevet concédé pour un procédé, le droit d'agir contre toute personne qui, sans sonautorisation:
• fabrique le produit directement obtenu par le procédé breveté;
• offre à la vente, vend ou utilise le produit obtenu par le procédé breveté; ou
• importe ou stocke le produit obtenu par le procédé breveté dans le but de l'utiliser, de
le vendre ou de l'offrir à la vente.
32. Veuillez expliquer les conditions additionnelles éventuellement prévues par votre législation,
outre la divulgation suffisante de l'invention stipulée dans l'article 29 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC (à
savoir, présentation d'une justification pour l'accès à du matériel génétique ou consentement
préalable à son utilisation). Si ces conditions additionnelles existent, veuillez indiquer la législationcorrespondante et décrire en détail ces conditions.
La Loi sur la propriété industrielle requiert, parmi les informations qui doivent accompagner
la demande de brevet, la description de l'invention et préciser que celle-ci doit divulguer l'invention de
manière suffisamment claire et complète afin qu'elle puisse être évaluée par un expert en la matière(articles 46 et 50).
La description de l'invention doit indiquer le nom de l'invention et les informations suivantes:
• le domaine technologique auquel se réfère ou s'applique l'invention;
• la technologie antérieure, connue par le déposant, qui peut s'avérer utile pour la
compréhension et l'examen de l'invention;
• les références aux documents et aux publications précédents relatifs à la technologie
connue antérieurement;
• la description de l'invention, en employant des termes qui permettent la
compréhension du problème technique et de la solution apportée par l'invention;
• les avantages que représente l'invention, par rapport à la technologie antérieure;IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 14
• la description des dessins éventuellement annexés, en rapport avec l'invention;
• la description de la meilleure manière connue par le déposant permettant d'exécuter
ou de mettre en pratique l'invention, par l'utilisation d'exemples et de références aux
dessins; et
• la manière dont l'invention est susceptible d'application industrielle et dont elle peut
être produite et utilisée.
Lorsque l'invention se rapporte à du matériel bi ologique qui ne peut être décrit de manière à
ce que l'invention puisse être exécutée par une personne versée en la matière et que le matériel ne se
trouve pas à la disposition du public, la description de l'invention doit être complétée par le dépôt du
matériel, tout en indiquant sur la demande le nom et l'adresse de l'institution où le matériel a étédéposé, la date de ce dépôt et le numéro d'ordre attribué par l'institution.
Le dépôt du matériel sera uniquement valable, aux fins de la concession du brevet, s'il a lieu
dans des conditions qui permettent à toute personne intéressée d'obtenir des échantillons de ce
matériel, au plus tard à partir de la date de publication de la demande de brevet.
33. Veuillez préciser si votre législation établit des exceptions limitées aux droits exclusifs
conférés par un brevet. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez mentionner la législation pertinente.
Les articles 18 et 19 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle disposent que les droits concédés au
titulaire d'un brevet peuvent uniquement être exercés contre des actes réalisés par des tiers à des fins
industrielles ou commerciales. Ces droits ne peuvent pas être exercés contre:
• les actes exclusivement réalisés dans le domaine privé et à des fins non
commerciales;
• les actes réalisés à des fins d'expérimentation, de recherche scientifique ou
académique, relatifs à l'objet de l'invention brevetée; et
• les actes auxquels se réfère l'article 5 de la Convention de Paris concernant la
Protection de la propriété industrielle.
Les droits du titulaire d'un brevet ne peuvent pas non plus être exercés contre des produits
brevetés ou obtenus par le procédé breveté après que ces produits aient été introduits de manière licite
dans le commerce national ou international par le titulaire du brevet ou ceux à qui il a accordé une
licence.
34. Veuillez préciser si la législation de votre pays prévoit ou non un régime de licences
obligatoires. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez expliquer de manière exhaustive les conditions sous
lesquelles une licence obligatoire peut être concédée. En particulier, veuillez indiquer comment votrelégislation nationale tient compte des mérites individuels pour l'autorisation de cette utilisation.
Conformément à la législation hondurienne, il est possible d'autoriser l'utilisation d'un brevet,
sans le consentement du titulaire, pour des raisons d'intérêt public, d'urgence nationale, de sécurité
nationale, de nutrition ou de santé publique. Cette utilisation peut également être autorisée si le brevetn'est pas exploité sur le territoire national dans les quatre ans suivant le dépôt de la demande ou dans
les trois ans suivant la date de concession du brevet, en prenant en considération le délai qui expire le
plus tard (articles 66 et 70 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 15
L'article 31 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC établit un ensemble de conditions à respecter pour la
concession d'une licence obligatoire. Conformément à ces dispositions, la Loi hondurienne sur la
propriété industrielle établit que:
a) la personne qui demande une licence obligatoire doit apporter la preuve irréfutable
1) qu'elle a préalablement demandé au titulaire du brevet une licence contractuelle et
2) qu'elle n'a pas pu obtenir cette licence sous des conditions et dans un délai
raisonnables (article 67, premier alinéa).
b) lorsque la licence est demandée pour un brevet revendiquant une forme de
technologie des semi-conducteurs, la licence n'est concédée que pour un usage public
non commercial, en faveur d'une autorité publique ou d'une autre personne qui agitpour le compte de celle-ci, ou pour rectifier une pratique déclarée anticoncurrentielle
(article 67, deuxième alinéa);
c) les licences obligatoires sont principalement concédées pour approvisionner le
marché intérieur (article 67:1);
d) lors de la concession d'une licence obligatoire, le montant et le moyen de paiement
que devra effectuer le preneur de licence sont établis sur la base de l'importance de
l'exploitation de l'invention faisant l'objet de la licence et de la valeur économique de
la licence (article 67:2);
e) les licences obligatoires peuvent être révoquées, à la requête de la personne
intéressée, si les circonstances qui ont donné lieu à la licence cessent d'exister
(article 68, premier alinéa).
f) une licence obligatoire qui a été concédée pour non-usage de l'invention ne peut pas
être concédée de manière exclusive, ne peut pas faire l'objet d'une cession ou d'une
sous-licence et ne peut être transférée qu'avec l'entreprise ou l'établissement ou avec
la partie de l'entreprise ou de l'établissement où l'invention est exploitée
industriellement (article 68, deuxième alinéa).
g) lorsqu'il s'agit de licences pour des brevets dépendants, les dispositions suivantes
devront être observées, outre les conditions précédentes:
i) les licences sont uniquement concédées lorsque l'invention revendiquée dans
le brevet ultérieur suppose un progrès technique d'un intérêt économique
considérable par rapport à l'invention protégée dans le brevet antérieur;
ii) à la requête du titulaire du brevet antérieur, une licence obligatoire peut être
concédée pour le second brevet; et
iiii) ces licences peuvent uniquement faire l'objet d'une concession, d'un transfert
ou d'une sous-licence, lorsque le brevet dépendant fait simultanément l'objet
d'une concession, d'un transfert ou d'une sous-licence (article 69).
h) pour tous les cas susmentionnés, il est possible de faire appel auprès du Ministère de
l'industrie et du commerce des résolutions prononcées par le Bureau d'enregistrementet les résolutions prononcées par ce ministère peuvent faire l'objet d'une révision par
la voie administrative, conformément à l'article 149 de la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle et aux articles 137 à 140 de la Loi sur la procédure administrative.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 16
35. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation assure explicitement qu'un candidat utilisateur a
réalisé les efforts nécessaires pour obtenir l'autorisation du titulaire du droit, dans un délai et sous
des conditions commerciales raisonnables, et que ces efforts n'ont pas atteint les résultats escomptés
dans un délai raisonnable. Dans ce contexte, comment définissez-vous le "délai raisonnable"?
Veuillez également expliquer comment votre législ ation garantit que l'utilisation d'une licence
obligatoire est principalement autorisée pour l'approvisionnement du marché intérieur du pays
membre qui autorise cette utilisation.
L'article 67 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle établit uniquement que lorsqu'une personne
demande une licence obligatoire celle-ci doit apporter la preuve irréfutable qu'elle a préalablement
demandé au titulaire du brevet une licence contractuelle et qu'en outre elle n'a pas pu l'obtenir sous
des conditions et dans un délai raisonnables.
Parmi les conditions auxquelles sont soumises les licences obligatoires, l'article 67:1 de cette
loi dispose que la durée et les actes seront principalement établis pour l'approvisionnement du marché
intérieur. La licence obligatoire peut être révoquée par le Bureau d'enregistrement de la propriété
intellectuelle, si les circonstances qui ont donné lieu à sa concession ont cessé d'exister et ne sereproduiront vraisemblablement pas. De même, la licence obligatoire peut être modifiée à la requête
de l'une des parties lorsque de nouveaux faits ou circonstances le justifient, en particulier si le titulaire
du brevet a octroyé des licences contractuelles dans des conditions plus favorables que celles
accordées au bénéficiaire de la licence obligatoire.
36. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation accorde une protection additionnelle pour les
innovations après l'expiration du délai de 20 ans conféré par le brevet.
Conformément à la loi hondurienne, les brevets d'invention sont concédés pour une durée de
vingt (20) ans à compter du dépôt de la demande. Ce délai ne peut être prorogé (article 15 de la Loisur la propriété industrielle).
37. Veuillez expliquer de quelle manière votre législation stipule l'extension de la protection
conférée par un brevet ou par une demande de brevet en cours au 1
er janvier 1995.
La Loi hondurienne sur la propriété industrielle a été publiée le 29 janvier 2000 et est entrée
en vigueur vingt jours plus tard. La loi précédente avait été créée en 1993 et prévoyait la brevetabilitéde toutes les inventions, de tout domaine technologique, excepté les cas prévus dans les articles 5:9
et 7 de la loi en vigueur, ainsi que le matériel biologique qui existe dans la nature et la reproduction de
celui-ci. La durée de protection prévue était de 20 ans. À cet égard, la loi hondurienne ne contient
pas de dispositions relatives à l'article 70:2 et 70:8 b) de l'Accord sur les ADPIC.
38. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation prévoit la révocation de la charge de la preuve
en ce qui concerne les brevets de procédés.
L'article 162 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle dispose que lorsqu'un brevet d'invention
protège un procédé visant à obtenir un nouveau produit et que celui-ci a été produit par un tiers, il seraprésumé que le produit a été obtenu par le procédé breveté, tant que la preuve du contraire n'est pas
apportée.
G. S
CHÉMAS DE CONFIGURATION (TOPOGRAPHIES ) DE CIRCUITS INTÉGRÉS
39. Veuillez expliquer comment la législation de votre pays protège les topographies.
Le Honduras n'a pas encore légiféré de manière spécifique en matière de protection des
schémas de configuration, si bien que la protection est octroyée pour une période de dix ans, àIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 17
compter de la première exploitation commerciale du schéma, comme le stipule l'article 38:2 de
l'Accord sur les ADPIC qui fait partie de la législation hondurienne du fait qu'il a été adopté et ratifié
comme annexe de l'Accord de Marrakech inst ituant l'Organisation mondiale du commerce (OMC).
40. Veuillez décrire la protection prévue par la législation de votre pays pour les titulaires de
droits contre l'importation illicite, la vente ou la distribution à des fins commerciales de topographies
incorporées dans des circuits intégrés ou d'un article incorporant un circuit intégré, selon les termes
de l'article 36 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC.
Conformément à l'article 36 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC, le titulaire d'un droit sur un schéma
de configuration protégé peut s'opposer à l'importation, la vente ou la distribution du schéma protégé,
d'un circuit intégré dans lequel ce schéma est incorporé ou d'un article incorporant le circuit intégré.Cette disposition peut s'appliquer directement, même s'il n'existe pas de législation spécifique en cette
matière. Ceci signifie que le titulaire du droit peut demander l'application des mesures qu'il juge
nécessaires pour protéger ses droits, telles que les mesures que la Loi sur la propriété industrielle
établit comme mesures conservatoires.
41. Veuillez expliquer comment la législation de votre pays prévoit la dérogation de l'article 36
de l'Accord sur les ADPIC, comme le stipule l'article 37 de cet Accord, lorsqu'une personne qui
réalise ces actes ne savait pas ou n'avait pas de raison valable de savoir, au moment où elle a acquis
ledit circuit intégré ou l'article l'incorporant, qu'il incorporait un schéma de configuration reproduit
de façon illicite.
La disposition de l'article 37 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC permet que les Membres ne
considèrent pas comme illégale l'importation, la vente ou la distribution commerciale d'un schéma
protégé, qui est incorporé dans un circuit intégré ou dans un article qui incorpore ce circuit intégré,
lorsque la personne qui accomplit ces actes ne savait pas et n'avait pas de raison valable de savoir,lorsqu'elle a acquis ledit circuit intégré ou l'arti cle l'incorporant, qu'il incorporait un schéma de
configuration reproduit de façon illicite. Cette disposition signifie que ces actes ne constituent pas des
infractions, tant que la personne n'a pas été notifiée que le schéma de configuration importé ou offert à
la vente était reproduit de façon illicite.
Cependant, l'article 37 stipule que les Membres disposeront que, après le moment où la
personne a été notifiée de l'acte illicite, elle pourra accomplir l'un quelconque des actes visés à l'égarddes stocks dont elle dispose ou qu'elle a commandés avant ce moment (comme l'épuisement de ces
stocks), mais pourra être astreinte à verser au titulaire du droit une somme équivalant à une redevance
telle que celle qui serait exigible dans le cadre d'une licence contractuelle. Cette disposition exige que
les Membres l'incorporent dans leur législation en la matière, mais n'empêche pas que le titulaire du
droit et le contrevenant innocent puissent arriver à un accord à ce sujet.
42. Veuillez indiquer la durée de la protection accordée par votre législation aux topographies.
Voir la réponse à la question 39.
H. P
ROTECTION DES RENSEIGNEMENTS NON DIVULGUÉS
43. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation octroie ou non un délai déterminé pour la protection des
renseignements non divulgués. Dans l'affirmative, veuillez en préciser la durée.
Conformément à l'article 74 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, les secrets industriels sont
protégés indéfiniment, lorsque les renseignements qui les constituent, dans leur globalité ou dans la
configuration et l'assemblage exacts de leurs éléments, ne sont pas généralement connus ou aisément
accessibles par les personnes appartenant aux milieux qui s'occupent normalement du genre deIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 18
renseignements en question et que ces renseignements ont fait l'objet, de la part de leur propriétaire
légitime, de dispositions raisonnables destinées à les garder secrets.
Lorsque les renseignements se rapportent à des données ou à tout autre renseignement secret,
fournis à l'autorité chargée d'autoriser la commercialisation de produits pharmaceutiques ouagrochimiques contenant un nouveau composant chimique, ces renseignements sont protégés contre
tout usage commercial déloyal par des tiers (article 77) et, en outre, contre leur divulgation, excepté si
cette divulgation est nécessaire pour protéger le public ou lorsque des mesures adéquates ont été
adoptées pour assurer que ces données ou renseignements secrets ne fassent pas l'objet d'un usage
commercial déloyal par des tiers (article 78).
44. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation définit les renseignements non divulgués.
La Loi sur la propriété industrielle ne comporte pas de définition des renseignements non
divulgués. Cependant, conformément à l'article 74 de cette loi, tout renseignement non divulgué
qu'une personne possède, qui peut être utilisé dans une activité productive, industrielle ou
commerciale et qui est susceptible d'être transmis à un tiers, est considéré comme un secret industriel.
45. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation définit les données présentées à des
gouvernements ou à des organismes gouvernementaux.
Bien qu'il n'existe pas de définition de ce genre de renseignements, l'article 77 de la Loi sur la
propriété industrielle se réfère à ceux-ci comme des données ou renseignements secrets, qui sont
requis dans une procédure visant à obtenir, auprès de l'autorité nationale compétente, des licences, des
permis ou des autorisations de commercialisation d'un produit pharmaceutique ou agrochimique
contenant un nouveau composant chimique.
I. M
OYENS DE FAIRE RESPECTER LES DROITS
46. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation prévoit une procédure efficace contre l'atteinte
aux droits de propriété intellectuelle.
Afin de garantir le respect des droits de propriété intellectuelle, tant la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle que la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes autorisent le titulaire des droits
respectifs à intenter des actions administratives et judiciaires, aussi bien de nature civile que pénale,de manière à protéger ses droits contre toute atteinte ou à empêcher ou prévenir la violation des droits
et en éviter les conséquences.
Les procédures civiles engagées en application des actions respectives sont instruites
conformément à la procédure de jugement réglementée par le Code de procédure civile (article 160 dela Loi sur la propriété industrielle et article 173 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes).
Il est possible d'instruire ce type d'actions sans préjudice de la possibilité qu'ont les parties de recourir
aux mesures de la voie administrative. Quant aux actions d'ordre pénal, il appartient au Ministère
public d'instruire ces actions contre les responsables, à condition que le titulaire ou le détenteur des
droits violés ait entamé cette poursuite en dénonçant la violation de ces droits directement auprès duMinistère public ou auprès des tribunaux compétents (article 152:1, 152:2 et 152:3 du Code de
procédure pénale).
En outre, la législation prévoit la possibilité de demander, même avant d'instruire l'une des
actions susmentionnées, des mesures ou des ordonnances conservatoires pour la protection des droits,afin d'empêcher la violation de ces droits ou d'obtenir et conserver des éléments de preuve
(articles 163 et 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle et articles 174 et 178 de la Loi sur le droit
d'auteur et les droits connexes). Par ailleurs, la législation prévoit la possibilité de recourir à desIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 19
mesures à la frontière, dans le but d'ordonner la suspension de l'importation ou de l'exportation de
marchandises qui portent préjudice ou contreviennent aux droits de propriété industrielle ou aux droits
d'auteur et droits connexes du titulaire de ces droits (articles 165:4 de la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle et 174:5 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes).
47. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation prévoit ou non un mécanisme permettant de saisir des
organismes judiciaires pour faire appel de décisions administratives finales.
En vertu de l'article 149 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, toutes les décisions définitives
prononcées par la Direction générale de la propriété intellectuelle, y compris celles qui imposent les
sanctions administratives établies dans les articles 167 et 168 de ladite loi, peuvent faire l'objet d'une
demande de révision auprès du Chef de la Direction générale de la propriété intellectuelle, et d'unappel auprès du Ministère de l'industrie et du comme rce, conformément aux dispositions de la Loi sur
les procédures administratives. Ces recours peuvent être introduits de la même manière par la voie
administrative pour des violations de droits reconnus par la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits
connexes.
48. Veuillez expliquer comment votre législation autorise les juges à ordonner la production
d'éléments de preuve de la part de la partie adverse. Veuillez fournir des informations précises sur
les mesures adoptées pour garantir la protection des renseignements confidentiels.
Pour ce qui est de la faculté de l'autorité judiciaire à exiger de la partie adverse, au cours d'une
procédure, que celle-ci produise des éléments de preuve qu'elle possède, ni la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle ni la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes ne contiennent de dispositions
particulières à ce sujet. Cependant, ce genre de dispositions est prévu dans d'autres lois supplétives en
matière de propriété intellectuelle, comme la Loi sur les procédures civiles et le Code de procédure
administrative, mais ces dispositions se limitent à la preuve documentaire.
Fondamentalement, il est prévu que lorsque l'une des parties du procès doit se servir d'un
document qui, selon sa déclaration, se trouve en la possession de la partie adverse, elle doit présenter
une copie de ce document ou doit au moins fournir les renseignements qu'elle connaît à propos de son
contenu et doit en outre prouver que le document est ou a été en la possession de la partie adverse. En
pareil cas, le juge ordonnera qu'il soit notifié à la partie adverse de remettre le document dans le délai
établi par lui-même et avertira que si la partie adverse ne remet pas le document et ne produit pasd'informations contraires il décidera de l'exactitude du texte du document mentionné par la partie
ayant demandé sa remise ou déclarera que les données fournies sur son contenu seront considérées
comme exactes dans le jugement.
Si la preuve concernant l'existence du document en la possession de la partie adverse est
contradictoire, le juge réservera la décision provisoire pour le moment du jugement définitif, où il
pourra établir, à partir des déclarations des parties et des éléments de preuve fournis, les présomptions
guidées par son interprétation prudente.
En ce qui concerne la condition qui consiste à prendre les mesures nécessaires pour garantir la
protection des renseignements confidentiels lors de toute production d'éléments de preuve, la
législation hondurienne contient plusieurs dispositions qui obligent les autorités judiciaires et les
fonctionnaires administratifs à respecter ces renseignements fournis sous garantie ou réserve de
confidentialité, ce respect constituant une exception à la règle générale de publicité des actes
administratifs (articles 111 et 222:3 de la Loi sur les organisations et attributions des tribunaux).
De même, bien que les articles 174 du Code de procédure pénale et 155 et 156 du Code de
procédure civile contiennent le principe selon lequel les actes et ordonnances des tribunaux de la
République du Honduras sont publics, ils admettent comme exception à ce principe les cas dansIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 20
lesquels, par ordre juridique ou pour des raisons de moralité ou de sécurité publique, ces actes et
ordonnances doivent rester confidentiels. Dans ce sens, les règles citées habilitent les juges à déclarer
la confidentialité des actes et ordonnances dans des cas très spécifiques et sous leur stricte
responsabilité.
49. Veuillez citer les dispositions de votre législation qui autorisent les juges à ordonner à un
défendeur de cesser une infraction.
Conformément aux dispositions des articles 163 et 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle
et des articles 173 et 174 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes, les autorités sont
habilitées à ordonner, selon le cas et compte tenu de la nécessité de proportionner la décision à la
gravité de l'infraction, toute mesure nécessaire à faire cesser les actes illicites, à empêcher leursconséquences et à éviter leur répétition, y compris l'interdiction d'importer ou d'exporter des produits
ou des matériaux et le retrait de ceux-ci des circuits commerciaux. D'après des dispositions expresses
de ces deux lois, tant dans des actions civiles que pénales, les juges peuvent également ordonner,
comme mesure conservatoire ou de précaution, la cessation immédiate de l'utilisation, de l'application
et de la commercialisation des produits illicites ou les mesures nécessaires à éviter la poursuite ou larépétition de l'infraction (article 270 du Code de procédure civile et article 55 du Code pénal).
50. Veuillez citer les dispositions de votre législation qui autorisent les juges à ordonner le
paiement au titulaire du droit d'une indemnisation suffisante pour compenser le préjudice que celui-ci
a subi.
Les dispositions des articles 1351, 1357, 1360, 2236 et 2237 du Code civil et de l'article 191
du Code de procédure civile établissent comme principe ou règle générale que toute personne causant
un dommage ou un préjudice à un tiers, que ce soit intentionnellement ou par inadvertance ou
imprudence, est obligée de le réparer, sauf si elle prouve que le dommage ou le préjudice a eu lieu par
la faute ou la négligence inexcusable de la victime. En outre, il est également établi que le jugementfixera une somme liquide en cas de condamnation à payer des dommages et intérêts; cependant, si
ceci n'est pas possible, le jugement établira au moins les bases permettant d'établir la liquidation lors
du règlement des questions incidentes ou de fixer le montant par l'intermédiaire d'experts.
L'article 163:2 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle établit qu'en cas de violation des droits
reconnus par cette loi il sera possible de demander à l'autorité compétente de statuer sur le paiement
de dommages et intérêts. La Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes prévoit quant à elle unerègle similaire dans l'article 175.
51. Veuillez citer les dispositions de votre législation qui autorisent les juges à ordonner au
contrevenant de payer les frais au titulaire du droit.
Pour ce qui est des frais et des honoraires des avocats, l'article 9 du Code de procédure civile
et l'article 263 de la Loi sur les organisations et attributions des tribunaux établissent comme règle
générale l'obligation pour chaque partie du procès d'être directement responsable des frais occasionnés
par les actes qu'elle réalise ou demande. Cependant, cette règle établit qu'en cas de condamnation à
payer des frais la partie condamnée doit indemniser l'autre partie pour tous les frais nécessaires quiont été occasionnés. En effet, les articles 192, 242, 243 et 244 du Code de procédure civile établissent
l'obligation générale du juge, dans son jugement clôturant un procès, de condamner la partie perdante
à rembourser les frais à l'autre partie.
52. Veuillez indiquer si et comment les juges sont compétents pour ordonner que les
marchandises portant atteinte à un droit soient retirées des circuits commerciaux ou détruites.
D'après les dispositions des articles 163 et 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle et des
articles 174 et 178 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes, le retrait des circuitsIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 21
commerciaux des marchandises portant atteinte à un droit peut être ordonné de manière définitive
(dans le jugement qui clôture un procès) ou même comme mesure conservatoire. Conformément à
ces règles, les objets résultant de l'infraction et les moyens ou les instruments qui ont été utilisés pour
commettre l'infraction seront détruits. De même, l'article 169 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle
établit que les produits qui portent des signes distinctifs illicites, le matériel publicitaire et le matérielou les instruments spécifiquement utilisés pour commettre l'infraction doivent être saisis et conservés
par l'autorité compétente dans l'attente des résultats du procès.
53. Veuillez citer les dispositions de votre législation qui autorisent les juges à indemniser un
défendeur en cas d'abus de la part du demandeur.
Selon les dispositions des articles 294 à 298 du Code procédure civile et des articles 120
à 136 de la Loi sur les organisations et attributions des tribunaux, toute personne qui obtient une
mesure ou une ordonnance conservatoire est obligée de répondre des dommages et intérêts ainsi que
des frais qu'elle occasionne à la partie adverse contre laquelle la mesure est prise, si elle ne présente
pas sa demande dans le délai légal, si la mesure préventive est révoquée ou si la demande est
irrecevable.
Afin de garantir l'application de cette responsabilité, le juge peut exiger, pour toute demande
d'une mesure ou d'une ordonnance conservatoire et préalablement à l'exécution de celle-ci, la
constitution d'une caution ou d'une garantie suffisante pour empêcher les abus et pour protéger la
partie lésée par la mesure et l'autorité elle-même contre les préjudices occasionnés.
Quant aux autorités qui ont ordonné une mesure, celles-ci ne sont pas responsables si elles ont
agi de bonne foi. Dans le cas contraire, les autorités responsables peuvent faire l'objet de sanctions
telles que la réclusion, la suspension et l'obligation de payer une indemnité.
54. Veuillez expliquer comment s'applique dans votre législation l'article 50 de l'Accord sur les
ADPIC.
Comme l'établit l'article 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, il est possible de demander
aux tribunaux l'application immédiate de mesures préventives, dans le but d'empêcher la violation
d'un droit protégé, d'éviter ses conséquences, d'obtenir ou de conserver des éléments de preuve ou
d'assurer l'exécution de l'action et le paiement des dommages et intérêts. Ces mesures préventivespeuvent être demandées avant, pendant ou après un procès. Si ces mesures sont demandées avant
d'entamer le procès, elles peuvent être appliquées sans que la partie adverse soit préalablement
entendue.
Sans préjudice d'autres mesures qui peuvent être appliquées en vertu des dispositions du Code
de procédure pénale, les juges peuvent ordonner:
• la cessation immédiate des actes illicites;
• la saisie conservatoire, la rétention ou le dépôt des objets illicites et des moyens
essentiellement destinés à commettre l'infraction;
• la constitution, par le contrevenant présumé, d'une caution ou d'une garantie pour le
paiement des dommages et intérêts éventuels; et
• la suspension de l'importation ou de l'exportation des objets ou des moyens
essentiellement destinés à commettre l'infraction.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 22
De même, l'article 169 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle établit que les produits qui
portent des signes distinctifs illicites, le matériel publicitaire faisant référence à ces signes et le
matériel ou les instruments qui ont été utilisés pour commettre l'infraction doivent être saisis et
conservés dans l'attente des résultats du procès correspondant.
En matière de droit d'auteur et de droits connexes, la loi correspondante établit dans son
article 174 que le titulaire du droit correspondant peut demander à l'autorité judiciaire comme mesure
préventive la confiscation:
• des œuvres, éditions et exemplaires reproduits de manière frauduleuse;
• du produit obtenu par l'aliénation ou la location de ces œuvres, éditions ou
exemplaires;
• du produit des spectacles théâtraux, cinématographiques, philharmoniques ou de tout
autre spectacle similaire; et
• d'exemplaires d'œuvres ou d'enregistrements sonores que l'on soupçonne
raisonnablement d'avoir été réalisés ou importés sans l'autorisation du titulaire du
droit, ainsi que des emballages de ces exemplaires, des moyens qui peuvent avoir été
utilisés pour les réaliser, des documents, comptes ou papiers d'affaires relatifs à ces
exemplaires et des dépôts de revenus obtenus par ces activités.
De même, il est possible d'ordonner la suspension de la circulation de marchandises que l'on
soupçonne raisonnablement d'être illégales, auquel cas les dispositions du Code des douanes sont
applicables.
D'après la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes, il est également possible de
demander à l'autorité judiciaire d'interdire ou de suspendre la représentation, l'exécution ou la
présentation publique d'une œuvre ou d'un phonogramme réalisée sans l'autorisation indispensable du
titulaire respectif (article 176) et de suspendre une représentation théâtrale ou une exécution de
musique instrumentale ou vocale radiodiffusée, réalisée sans le consentement de l'auteur (article 180).
Dans tous les cas cités précédemment, il est exigé que toute personne prenant l'initiative de la
mesure ait entamé l'action judiciaire correspondante et remette une garantie suffisante pour assurer les
éventuels dommages pouvant être causés au défendeur (article 177).
Les juges compétents doivent décréter immédiatement les mesures préventives demandées,
conformément aux dispositions correspondantes du Code de procédure civile (article 178).
55. Veuillez citer les autorités compétentes de votre juridiction qui reçoivent des demandes
déposées par les titulaires réclamant que les autorités douanières suspendent le dédouanement de
marchandises contrefaites.
Conformément aux dispositions des articles 160 et 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle
et de l'article 173 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes, ce genre de mesures peut être
demandé auprès des tribunaux civils. Cependant, conformément à la législation sur les douanes, tous
les biens ou produits qui portent atteinte à un droit de propriété intellectuelle peuvent être saisis aux
frontières par les autorités douanières du pays.
La procédure à la frontière peut être engagée d'office ou à la requête d'une partie, s'il est
évident qu'il s'agit de marchandises qui portent atteinte à un droit de propriété intellectuelle ou que leIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 23
titulaire du droit violé possède des preuves suffisantes pour déposer devant les autorités
correspondantes la plainte pertinente.
Dans les deux cas, l'autorité douanière ordonnera la mesure à la frontière au moment où
s'effectue le dédouanement, en suspendant le dédouanement et l'admission des biens ou la procédured'exportation pendant une péri ode de dix jours ouvrables.
56. Veuillez indiquer s'il existe ou non des procédures visant à suspendre l'exportation de
marchandises contrefaites.
Conformément aux dispositions légales susmentionnées, le titulaire d'un droit de propriété
intellectuelle protégé peut demander comme mesure provisoire la suspension du dédouanementdestiné à l'admission des biens contrefaits et de la procédure d'exportation, après avoir répondu aux
conditions suivantes:
a) apporter la preuve qu'il est le titulaire du droit présumé violé;
b) apporter une caution suffisante pour répondre des préjudices qui peuvent être
occasionnés à la partie lésée par la mesure;
c) fournir toutes les informations suffisantes qui permettent l'identification des
marchandises présumées illicites;
d) identifier l'importateur ou l'exportateur;e) décrire les marchandises illicites censément destinées à l'importation ou l'exportation;
f) identifier la douane par laquelle les biens passeront, en indiquant la date d'arrivée ou
de sortie des marchandises et le moyen de transport utilisé; et
g) les autres conditions que l'autorité douanière estime pertinentes.Lorsque l'autorité douanière a appliqué la mesure de suspension correspondante, elle
informera les parties intéressées, au plus tard le jour ouvrable suivant, de la rétention de lamarchandise, mettra celle-ci en dépôt et à la disp osition de l'autorité compétente dans l'entrepôt
désigné à cet effet et dressera un procès-verbal qui contiendra les informations suivantes:
a) nom et fonction de l'autorité qui applique la mesure;
b) description, nature et autres caractéristiques de la marchandise;
c) décision et motifs invoqués pour ordonner la suspension de la libre circulation de la
marchandise d'origine étrangère;
d) notification de cette suspension à l'intéressé; et
e) lieu dans lequel les marchandises sont déposées et mises à la disposition de l'autorité
compétente.
La personne lésée par l'application des mesures susmentionnées devra faire opposition dans
un délai de dix jours ouvrables à compter de la date de notification de la suspension, pendant lequel il
pourra présenter les éléments de preuve, les exceptions et les moyens de défense qu'il a le droitIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 24
d'utiliser pour contester la plainte adressée contre lui et pourra déposer une contre-caution ou une
contre-garantie suffisante pour répondre des dommages que pourrait causer la levée de cette mesure.
L'autorité compétente devra statuer définitivement sur l'application de mesures à la frontière
et mettra la caution ou garantie ou la contre-caution à la disposition de la personne en faveur delaquelle l'autorité a résolu l'affaire. La durée et les coûts des procédures dépendront de la complexité
du cas. La personne lésée par la suspension de la libre circulation de ses marchandises pourra déposer
une contre-caution afin que la mesure soit levée; autrement, la mesure sera levée dans le jugement
définitif prononcé par l'autorité qui décide de l'affectation des biens.
Les dispositions contenues dans les articles 1, 2, 3 et 57 de la Loi sur les douanes sont
applicables pour ce qui est des mesures à la frontière.
57. Veuillez indiquer les dispositions de votre législation qui habilitent les autorités compétentes
à ordonner la destruction ou l'élimination de marchandises portant atteinte à un droit.
D'après les dispositions des articles 163 et 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle et des
articles 174 et 178 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes, le retrait des circuits
commerciaux des marchandises portant atteinte à un droit peut être ordonné de manière définitive
(dans le jugement qui clôture un procès) ou même comme mesure conservatoire. Conformément à
ces règles, les objets résultant de l'infraction et les moyens ou les instruments qui ont été utilisés pour
commettre l'infraction seront détruits.
58. Veuillez indiquer si votre législation prévoit ou non une exception aux importations
de minimis.
Les biens en transit et les marchandises non commerciales et faisant partie des bagages
personnels des voyageurs ne peuvent faire l'objet de mesures à la frontière.
59. Veuillez expliquer comment s'applique dans votre législation l'article 61 de l'Accord sur les
ADPIC.
Dans le cas d'actions pénales, il appartient au Ministère public d'instruire ces actions contre
les responsables, à condition que le titulaire ou détenteur des droits violés entame cette poursuite, endénonçant la violation de ces droits (articles 16 et 152:1, 152:2 et 152:3 du Code de procédure
pénale).
Les tribunaux compétents pour instruire des actions pénales pour violation de tout droit de
propriété intellectuelle sont les tribunaux qui exercent leur juridiction dans la région où l'acte illiciteest commis (article 38 du Code de procédure pénale).
Quant à la procédure pénale, veuillez consulter les réponses aux questions 22, 23, 24 et 25 de
la Liste des questions concernant les moyens de faire respecter les droits, présentée par le Honduras
au Secrétariat de l'Organisation mondiale du commerce (OMC) (document IP/N/6/HND/1).
Conformément à la qualification d'actes illicites contenue dans les articles 248 à 253 du Code
pénal, les infractions qui portent atteinte aux droits de propriété intellectuelle reconnus par les lois
correspondantes sont soumises aux procédures et aux sanctions pénales établies.
Les articles mentionnés du Code pénal établissent une peine d'emprisonnement de trois
à six ans pour les responsables des violations des différents droits de propriété intellectuelle et
prescrivent en outre une peine pécuniaire sous forme d'une amende fixée par le juge entre 50 000 etIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 25
100 000 lempiras, sans préjudice des amendes ou sanctions administratives que d'autres autorités sont
habilitées à fixer.
De plus, l'article 299:3 du Code pénal établit que toute personne qui commet un acte qualifié
de concurrence déloyale, selon les règles établies par le Code de commerce, par d'autres lois spécialesou par des conventions internationales, est sanctionnée d'une peine d'emprisonnement de trois (3) à
cinq (5) ans et d'une amende de 50 000 à 10 000 lempiras.
En matière de propriété intellectuelle, les procédures pénales, outre les peines
susmentionnées, appliquent les dispositions mentionnées précédemment dans la question 24 de la liste
de questions concernant les moyens de faire respecter les droits présentée par le Honduras. Ces
dispositions permettent, sans distinction des droits protégés, d'ordonner la saisie, la confiscation et ladestruction des marchandises en cause et de tous matériaux et instruments ayant principalement servi
à commettre le délit.
ÉTATS-UNIS
A. G
ÉNÉRALITÉS
1. Veuillez indiquer, pour chaque forme de propriété intellectuelle visée par l'Accord sur les
ADPIC, y compris la protection des variétés végétales, la manière dont le traitement national et le
traitement de la nation la plus favorisée sont accordés aux ressortissants des autres Membres del'OMC.
La législation hondurienne prévoit une protection adéquate et effective des droits de propriété
intellectuelle par la mise en œuvre de sa réglementation spéciale (Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits
connexes et Loi sur la propriété industrielle) et des accords internationaux qui font partie de salégislation intérieure en application de l'article 16 de la Constitution de la République (Convention de
Berne pour la protection des œuvres littéraires et artistiques, Convention de Paris pour la protection de
la propriété industrielle, Convention internationale sur la protection des artistes interprètes ou
exécutants, des producteurs de phonogrammes et des organismes de radiodiffusion et Accord sur les
aspects des droits de propriété intellectuelle qui touchent au commerce – Accord sur les ADPIC de
l'Organisation mondiale du commerce).
L'article 4 alinéa 2 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes établit que les
étrangers qui ne résident pas dans le pays et dont les œuvres ont été publiées pour la première fois à
l'étranger jouissent de la protection conférée par cette loi conformément aux conventions
internationales auxquelles le Honduras est partie. À défaut de convention, le principe de réciprocité
s'applique. Comme le signale le paragraphe précédent, le Honduras est partie à la Convention deBerne et à l'Accord sur les ADPIC, qui sont deux instruments établissant l'obligation pour les pays
membres d'accorder aux étrangers un traitement non moins favorable que celui prévu pour leurs
ressortissants, mises à part les exceptions reconnues dans la Convention de Berne. Par conséquent, en
application des dispositions de l'article 4 alinéa 2 mentionné, le Honduras accorde un traitement
national à tous les ressortissants des pays membres de la Convention de Berne et de l'Organisationmondiale du commerce. Parmi les exceptions reconnues dans la Convention de Berne, le Honduras
n'applique que les exceptions suivantes:
a) Lorsqu'il s'agit d'œuvres d'auteurs étrangers, publiées pour la première fois à
l'étranger, la durée de protection de l'œuvre n'excède pas la durée reconnue par lalégislation du pays où l'œuvre a été publiée, si cette durée est inférieure à celle prévue
par la législation hondurienne. Dans le cas où la durée prévue par la législation du
pays dans lequel l'œuvre a été publiée pour la première fois est supérieure à celleIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 26
prévue par la législation hondurienne, l'œuvre sera protégée pendant la durée prévue
par cette dernière. Cette disposition est prévue dans l'article 44 de la Loi sur le droit
d'auteur et les droits connexes et est compatible avec les dispositions de l'article 7:8
de la Convention de Berne.
b) En cas de revente d'exemplaires d'une œuvre des beaux-arts ou de manuscrits
originaux d'écrivains ou de compositeurs, dans une vente aux enchères ou par
l'intermédiaire d'un marchand d'œuvres d'art, le droit de percevoir 5% du prix de
revente, prévu dans l'article 43 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes,
est uniquement conféré aux auteurs étrangers si la législation de leur pays d'origine
leur reconnaît ce droit. Cette disposition n'apparaît pas dans la législation spécifique,
mais peut être appliquée conforméme nt aux dispositions de l'article 14 ter, alinéa 2, de
la Convention de Berne.
c) Pour ce qui est des phonogrammes étrangers, le droit aux utilisations secondaires des
phonogrammes est uniquement reconnu aux ressortissants des pays qui assurent la
même protection aux ressortissants honduriens. La durée de protection prévue pourles phonogrammes étrangers peut également se limiter à la durée pour laquelle ils
sont protégés dans leur pays d'origine, si cette durée est inférieure à celle prévue par
la législation hondurienne. Dans tous les cas, la durée de protection des
phonogrammes ne sera pas inférieure à une période de 50 ans calculée à compter de
la fin de l'année civile de fixation, conformément aux dispositions de l'article 14:5 del'Accord sur les ADPIC.
De même, l'article 8 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes établit, en ce qui
concerne les droits des artistes interprètes ou exécutants, des producteurs de phonogrammes et des
organismes de radiodiffusion, que les interprétations et exécutions, les phonogrammes et lesémissions de radiodiffusion, dont les titulaires sont des étrangers ne résidant pas dans le pays, sont
protégés conformément aux conventions internationales auxquelles la République du Honduras est
partie ou, à défaut de convention, selon le principe de réciprocité. Le Honduras est partie à la
Convention de Rome et à l'Accord sur les ADPIC, qui sont deux instruments établissant l'obligation
pour les pays membres d'accorder aux étrangers un traitement non moins favorable que celui prévu
pour leurs ressortissants, ce qui implique qu'en vertu de l'article 8 le Honduras accorde aux titulaires
d'interprétations et exécutions, de phonogrammes et d'émissions de radiodiffusion, qui sont desétrangers ne résidant pas dans le pays, mais qui sont des ressortissants d'un pays membre de la
Convention de Rome ou de l'Organisation mondial e du commerce, le même traitement que celui
reconnu par leur législation nationale pour les Honduriens.
Pour ce qui est de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, celle-ci ne contient pas de disposition
imposant aux étrangers des conditions supplémentaires pour acquérir, conserver ou exercer les droits
que cette loi reconnaît, ce qui est conforme à l'article 3 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC. En outre,
l'obligation d'accorder un traitement national aux ressortissants des autres pays Membres de l'OMC
est également établie par la Convention de Paris pour la protection de la propriété industrielle, cette
convention faisant partie de la législation hondurienne et étant impérative puisqu'elle ne requiert pasla création d'une législation spécifique pour son application. Par conséquent, le Honduras reconnaît
les mêmes droits aux ressortissants et aux étrangers en matière de signes distinctifs, d'inventions, de
modèles d'utilité et de dessins industriels.
En ce qui concerne le principe de traitement de la nation la plus favorisée, prévu dans
l'article 4 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC, bien que les lo is sur la propriété intellectuelle ne l'incorporent
par expressément, cette obligation fait partie du régime juridique du Honduras, puisque les
dispositions des traités internationaux qui ont été ratifiés par le Honduras et qui ne requièrent pas la
création d'une législation spécifique (comme dans le cas de l'article 4 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC) sontIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 27
pleinement applicables, impératives et d'observance générale, excepté les extensions prévues dans ce
même article. En conséquence, tous avantages, faveurs, privilèges, immunités ou droits accordés par
le Honduras aux ressortissants de tout autre pays seront, immédiatement et sans condition, étendus
aux ressortissants de tous les autres pays Membres de l'OMC.
B. DROITS D 'AUTEUR ET DROITS CONNEXES
2. Veuillez indiquer comment la législation hondurienne sur le droit d'auteur protège les
programmes d'ordinateur en tant qu'œuvres littéraires et les compilations de données, comme l'exige
l'article 10 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC.
La Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes établit dans l'article 2 que toutes les
créations originales, quels qu'en soient le genre, le mode ou la forme d'expression, la qualité et l'objet,sont considérées comme des œuvres littéraires ou artistiques. Le même article inclut une liste, à titre
d'exemple, des œuvres protégées parmi lesquelles figurent les programmes d'ordinateur. L'article 12
établit également que les œuvres collectives, telles que les anthologies et les œuvres analogues, sont
protégées comme des œuvres, dans la mesure où elles constituent une création originale et que le
choix et la disposition du contenu constituent une création originale. En outre, il existe desdispositions spécifiques pour la protection des programmes d'ordinateur et des bases de données
(articles 32, 33 et 34 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes).
3. L'article 11 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC prévoit la possibilité de conférer des droits de location
pour les programmes d'ordinateur et les œuvres ciné matographiques. Veuillez citer la disposition
correspondante de la législation hondurienne sur le droit d'auteur.
L'article 39:6 et 39:7 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes établit, parmi les
droits patrimoniaux conférés au titulaire du droit d'auteur, le droit d'autoriser la distribution au public
d'une œuvre, par la vente, la location, le prêt public ou toute autre forme, et reconnaît explicitement ledroit d'autoriser la location d'un exemplaire d'une œuvre audiovisuelle, d'une œuvre incorporée à un
enregistrement sonore ou d'un programme d'ordinateur.
De même, l'article 25:1 et 25:2 de la loi mentionnée établit que le producteur d'une œuvre
audiovisuelle a le droit de fixer et de reproduire l'œuvre pour la distribuer et l'exposer, ainsi que de
vendre ou de louer les exemplaires de l'œuvre.
4. Veuillez décrire la protection prévue par la législation hondurienne sur le droit d'auteur aux
artistes interprètes ou exécutants et en indiquer la durée.
L'article 113 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes dispose que les artistes
interprètes ou exécutants ont le droit exclusif d'autoriser les actes suivants:
a) la radiodiffusion de leurs interprétations ou exécutions;b) la communication au public de leurs interprétations ou exécutions;
c) la fixation de leurs interprétations ou exécutions non fixées;
d) la reproduction d'une fixation de leurs interprétations ou exécutions;e) la première distribution au public d'une fixation de leurs interprétations ou
exécutions;
f) la location ou le prêt au public d'une fixation de leurs interprétations ou exécutions;IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 28
g) la mise à la disposition du public, avec ou sans fil, de leurs interprétations ou
exécutions fixées sur un phonogramme, de telle sorte que chacun puisse avoir accès à
celles-ci dans le lieu et au moment qu'il choisit individuellement.
La durée de protection prévue est de soixante-quinze (75) ans à compter de la fin de l'année
où a eu lieu l'interprétation ou l'exécution si celle-ci n'est pas enregistrée sur un phonogramme ou à
compter de la fin de l'année de la fixation de l'interprétation ou exécution si celle-ci est fixée sur un
phonogramme (article 120 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes).
5. L'article 14:2 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC prévoit que les producteurs de phonogrammes
jouissent du droit d'autoriser ou d'interdire la reproduction directe ou indirecte de leursphonogrammes. Conformément à cet article, les producteurs de phonogrammes ont le droit
d'autoriser ou d'interdire la location commerciale au public d'originaux ou de copies de leurs
phonogrammes. Veuillez décrire comment la législation hondurienne sur le droit d'auteur assure la
mise en œuvre de ces obligations et indiquer la durée de la protection.
L'article 118 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes établit que les producteurs de
phonogrammes ont le droit exclusif d'autoriser ou d'interdire la reproduction directe ou indirecte, la
communication et la distribution au public de leurs phonogrammes par la vente, la location,
l'importation ou tout autre moyen, y compris la mise à la disposition du public de copies de leurs
phonogrammes par quelque moyen que ce soit, de telle sorte que les membres du public puissent avoiraccès à ceux-ci dans le lieu et au moment de leur choix, ou toute autre forme d'utilisation de leurs
phonogrammes.
La durée de protection de ces droits est de soixante-quinze (75) ans à compter de la fin de
l'année où la fixation a été réalisée (article 120 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes).
C. M
ARQUES DE FABRIQUE OU DE COMMERCE
6. Veuillez décrire ce qui peut constituer des marques de fabrique ou de commerce en vertu de
la législation hondurienne.
Conformément aux articles 79:2 et 82 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, une marque est
constituée par tout signe visible propre à distinguer les produits ou les services d'une entreprise desproduits ou services d'autres entreprises. Les marques peuvent être des dénominations issues de
l'imagination, noms, pseudonymes, devises commerciales, figures, portraits, lettres, chiffres,
monogrammes, étiquettes, écussons, impressions, vignettes, bordures, lignes, bandes, combinaisons et
dispositions de couleurs. De même, les marques peuvent consister en la forme, la présentation ou
l'arrangement des produits ou de leurs emballages ou des moyens ou lieux de vente des produits ouservices correspondants.
Enfin, les marques peuvent également consister en des indications géographiques, nationales
et étrangères, à condition qu'elles soient suffisamment indépendantes et distinctives en ce qui
concerne les produits ou services auxquels elles s'appliquent et que leur utilisation ne soit passusceptible de prêter à confusion ou d'entraîner dans l'esprit des consommateurs une attente erronée
ou injustifiée quant à l'origine, la provenance, les qualités ou les caractéristiques des produits ou
services pour lesquels les marques sont utilisées.
7. Veuillez indiquer la procédure à suivre pour enregistrer une marque de fabrique ou de
commerce au Honduras, en citant les dispositions pertin entes de la loi, et mentionner les droits que le
titulaire d'une marque enregistrée peut exercer.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 29
La procédure à suivre pour le dépôt et la concession d'enregistrements de marques auprès du
Bureau hondurien d'enregistrement de la propriété industrielle est disponible dans les articles 85 à 91
de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle.
Toute demande d'enregistrement de marque doit être déposée au Bureau d'enregistrement de
la propriété industrielle, dépendant de la Direction générale de la propriété intellectuelle, et doit être
accompagnée des données relatives au déposant ou à son mandataire, à la marque dont
l'enregistrement est demandé et aux produits ou services pour lesquels l'enregistrement de la marque
est demandé. Si un document ou un renseignement manque, le bureau d'enregistrement octroie au
déposant un délai de trente (30) jours pour corrig er l'omission. Dès que l'omission ou l'erreur est
rectifiée, le bureau d'enregistrement vérifie que la marque n'est pas concernée par l'un des motifs
d'inadmissibilité prévus par la loi, tant pour des raisons intrinsèques que pour des raisons d'atteinteaux droits de tiers.
S'il résulte de cet examen que l'enregistrement de la marque demandé est concerné par l'une
des interdictions prévues, le déposant est notifié des objections rencontrées et bénéficie d'un délai de
soixante (60) jours pour modifier sa demande ou pour se prononcer sur les objections présentées.Lorsque le délai est expiré et que le déposant ne s'est pas prononcé ou qu'il l'a fait mais que le Bureau
d'enregistrement estime que les objections présentées doivent subsister, le refus de l'enregistrement est
prononcé au moyen d'une décision fondée.
Si après l'examen réalisé il n'est pas établi que la marque est concernée par l'une des
interdictions, le Bureau d'enregistrement ordonne la publication d'un avis dans le Journal officiel
(trois fois, avec un intervalle de dix jours entre chaque publication) comprenant: le nom du déposant,
la date de la demande, la reproduction de la marque dont l'enregistrement est demandé et la liste des
produits ou services auxquels s'applique la marque, y compris l'indication de la catégorie
correspondante. Pendant la période de publication et jusqu'à trente (30) jours après la dernièrepublication, toute personne intéressée ou qui s'estime lésée peut s'opposer à l'enregistrement de la
marque, en indiquant les motifs sur lesquels elle fonde son opposition et en apportant les éléments de
preuve correspondants.
Si aucune opposition n'est présentée dans le délai prescrit ou que celle-ci est rejetée, il sera
procédé à l'enregistrement de la marque et le Bureau d'enregistrement délivrera au déposant un
certificat d'enregistrement comprenant les renseignements inclus dans l'inscription correspondante etconstituant le titre qui confère le droit exclusif sur la marque.
L'article 96 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle établit que l'enregistrement de la marque
confère à son titulaire le droit de poursuivre les tiers qui, sans son consentement, accomplissent l'un
des actes suivants:
a) poser, coller ou fixer de quelque manière que ce soit un signe distinctif identique ou
similaire à la marque enregistrée sur des produits pour lesquels la marque a été
enregistrée ou sur les emballages ou les récipients de ces produits;
b) supprimer ou modifier la marque que son titulaire ou une personne autorisée à cet
effet a posée, collée ou fixée sur les produits auxquels fait référence le paragraphe
précédent;
c) fabriquer des étiquettes, des récipients, des emballages ou d'autres éléments
analogues qui reproduisent ou incorporent une reproduction de la marque enregistrée,
ainsi que commercialiser ou détenir de tels éléments;IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 30
d) remplir ou réutiliser à des fins commerciales des récipients ou des emballages portant
la marque;
e) utiliser dans le commerce un signe identique ou similaire à la marque pour les mêmes
produits ou services pour lesquels la marque a été enregistrée ou pour des produits ouservices différents lorsque l'utilisation d'un tel signe concernant ces produits ou
services peut prêter à confusion ou occasionner un risque d'association avec le
titulaire de l'enregistrement; et
f) utiliser dans le commerce un signe identique ou similaire à la marque enregistrée dans
des circonstances où une telle utilisation risque d'induire le public en erreur, de prêter
à confusion ou de causer à son titulaire un préjudice économique ou commercial enraison d'une atténuation du caractère distinctif ou de la valeur commerciale de la
marque ou en raison d'une exploitation injuste de la renommée ou du caractère
distinctif de la marque.
8. Veuillez indiquer la durée et les modalités de protection prévues par la législation
hondurienne sur les marques pour une marque de fabrique ou de commerce.
Conformément aux articles 92 et 93 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, le délai de
protection initial d'une marque enregistrée est de dix ans à compter de la date de concession de
l'enregistrement et peut être renouvelé indéfiniment par périodes successives de dix ans, pour autant
que la demande de renouvellement correspondante soit introduite et que la taxe de maintien due soit
payée.
D. I
NDICATIONS GÉOGRAPHIQUES
9. Veuillez indiquer en détail les modalités selon lesquelles la législation hondurienne reconnaît
et protège les indications géographiques, comme l'exige l'article 22:2 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC, en
citant les dispositions pertinentes de la loi ou réglementation concernée, et donner des exemples
d'indications géographiques ainsi protégées.
L'article 82, second alinéa, de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle dispose que les marques
peuvent également consister en des indications géographiques, nationales et étrangères, à condition
qu'elles soient suffisamment indépendantes et distinctives en ce qui concerne les produits ou servicesauxquels elles s'appliquent et que leur utilisation ne soit pas susceptible d'entraîner un risque de
confusion ou d'association quant à l'origine, la provenance, les qualités ou les caractéristiques des
produits ou services pour lesquels les marques sont utilisées. Cette disposition est complétée par les
dispositions de:
• l'article 83:11 de la loi mentionnée, qui interdit l'enregistrement de marques qui
consistent en une indication géograph ique non conforme aux dispositions du
paragraphe précédent; et
• l'article 123 de cette loi, qui interdit l'usage dans le commerce, pour un produit ou un
service, d'indications géographiques qui sont fausses ou trompeuses quant à l'origine
géographique ou dont l'utilisation peut entraîner une confusion dans l'esprit des
consommateurs ou une attente injustifiée quant à l'origine, la provenance, lescaractéristiques ou les qualités du produit ou du service.
Parmi les indications géographiques, une protection est prévue pour les appellations d'origine
qui consistent en des indications géographiques constituées de la dénomination d'un pays, d'uneIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 31
région ou d'un lieu déterminé, utilisée pour désigner un produit qui est originaire de l'un de ces
milieux géographiques et dont les caractéristiques peuvent être attribuées exclusivement ou
essentiellement au milieu géographique dans lequel il est produit, y compris les facteurs naturels et
humains. Une appellation qui, sans être celle d'un pays, d'une région ou d'un lieu déterminé, fait
référence à une zone géographique déterminée est également considérée comme une appellationd'origine, lorsqu'elle est utilisée pour des produits originaires de cette zone (article 79:9 de la Loi sur
la propriété industrielle).
Pour ce qui est des appellations d'origine, l'article 83:11 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle
établit qu'il n'est pas possible d'enregistrer en tant que marques les signes qui contiennent une
appellation d'origine protégée pour les mêmes produits ou pour des produits différents, lorsque leur
utilisation peut entraîner un risque de confusion ou d'association avec l'appellation ou implique uneexploitation injuste de sa notoriété.
La législation sur les marques établit la procédure à suivre pour obtenir l'enregistrement d'une
appellation d'origine. Une fois inscrit, l'enregistrement d'une appellation d'origine entre en vigueur
définitivement (articles 129 et 131 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle). Les appellations d'origineétrangères sont protégées conformément aux traités et conventions adoptés par le Honduras, à la
requête des producteurs, fabricants ou artisans étrangers dont l'établissement de production ou de
fabrication se trouve dans la région ou la localité du pays duquel provient l'appellation d'origine ou
des autorités publiques compétentes de ce pays (article 126 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
Jusqu'à présent, aucune demande d'enregistrement d'une indication géographique ou d'une appellationd'origine n'a été demandée au Honduras.
10. Veuillez décrire en détail comment est assuré le niveau de protection plus élevé demandé
pour les vins et les spiritueux en vertu des dispositions de l'article 23:2 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC, en
citant les dispositions pertinentes de la loi ou réglementation concernée, et donner des exemplesd'indications géographiques pour ces produits.
L'article 23:2 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC établit l'obligation pour les pays membres de refuser
ou d'invalider l'enregistrement d'une marque qui contient une indication géographique identifiant des
vins ou des spiritueux. À cet égard, la législation hondurienne interdit l'enregistrement de signes qui
consistent en une indication géographique qui n'es t pas suffisamment indépendante et distinctive par
rapport aux produits ou services auxquels elle s'applique, indépendamment du fait que ces produitssoient des vins ou autres spiritueux (article 82 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
La violation de cette disposition peut être sanctionnée d'une amende de dix (10) à
deux cents (200) fois le salaire minimum, conformément aux dispositions de l'article 168 de la Loi sur
la propriété industrielle, qui établit cette sanction pour toute personne qui:
a) utilise dans le commerce, en ce qui concerne un produit ou un service, une indication
géographique fausse ou susceptible de tromper le public sur la provenance de ce
produit ou service ou sur l'identité du producteur, fabricant ou commerçant du produit
ou service; ou
b) utilise dans le commerce, en ce qui concerne un produit, une appellation d'origine
fausse ou trompeuse ou l'imitation d'une appellation d'origine, même si elle indique la
véritable origine du produit, utilise une traduction de l'appellation d'origine ou utilise
l'appellation d'origine en l'accompagnant d'expressions telles que "type", "genre","manière", "imitation" ou d'autres qualifications analogues.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 32
E. DESSINS ET MODÈLES INDUSTRIELS
11. Veuillez indiquer la procédure à suivre pour obtenir la protection des dessins et modèles de
textiles et citer les dispositions pertinentes de la loi ou réglementation concernée.
La procédure à suivre pour le dépôt et la concession d'enregistrements de dessins industriels
auprès du Bureau hondurien d'enregistrement de la propriété industrielle est établie dans les
articles 58 à 64 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle.
La demande d'enregistrement d'un dessin industriel doit être déposée au Bureau
d'enregistrement de la propriété industrielle et doit indiquer le nom du déposant, celui du dessinateur
si le déposant est une personne distincte, en indiquant dans ce cas la manière dont le droit a été acquis,
le type ou le genre de produits auxquels s'applique le dessin et la catégorie et sous-catégorie de cesproduits. La demande doit être accompagnée de trois (3) représentations graphiques ou
photographiques du dessin industriel ou d'un échantillon du matériel qui incorpore le dessin, lorsqu'il
s'agit de dessins bidimensionnels incorporés dans un matériel plane.
Le Bureau d'enregistrement vérifiera si la demande répond aux conditions susmentionnées. Si
la demande n'y répond pas, le Bureau d'enregistrement le notifiera au déposant afin qu'il rectifie
l'omission dans les deux (2) mois suivants. Dès que l'omission ou l'erreur est corrigée, le Bureau
d'enregistrement vérifie que le dessin satisfait aux conditions établies pour que celui-ci soit
enregistrable: originalité et application industrielle (article 29 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
Si le dessin répond à ces conditions, le Bureau d'enregistrement ordonnera la publication d'un avisdans le Journal officiel pendant trois (3) mois consécutifs, avec un intervalle de trente (30) jours entre
chaque publication. Pendant la période de publication, toute personne intéressée peut s'opposer à la
demande d'enregistrement du dessin, en indiquant les motifs de son opposition et en apportant les
éléments de preuve correspondants. Lorsque ce délai est expiré et qu'aucune opposition n'a été
déposée ou que l'opposition est déclarée irrecevable, la décision de concession de l'enregistrement estprononcée et la publication d'un avis annonçant l'octroi de l'enregistrement est ordonnée.
F. B
REVETS
12. Veuillez décrire en détail la manière dont la législation hondurienne sur les brevets assure la
mise en œuvre de l'article 27 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC en indiquant, le cas échéant, toute exception
à la brevetabilité prévue et en fournissant des précisions sur la protection des micro-organismes, des
procédés non biologiques et microbiologiques et des variétés végétales. Veuillez citer les dispositions
correspondantes de la législation.
Notre législation établit que des brevets peuvent être délivrés pour toutes les inventions, de
produits ou de procédés, dans tous les domaines technologiques, à condition qu'elles soient nouvelles,
qu'elles impliquent une activité inventive et qu'elles soient susceptibles d'application industrielle(article 6 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle). Cette disposition inclut les produits pharmaceutiques
et les produits agrochimiques.
Les seules exceptions prévues sont contenues dans l'article 7 de la loi mentionnée, qui dispose
que ne sont pas brevetables:
a) les procédés essentiellement biologiques d'obtention ou de reproduction de plantes,
d'animaux ou de leurs variétés, y compris les procédés génétiques ou relatifs à du
matériel capable de se reproduire, spontanément ou indirectement, lorsque ces
procédés consistent à sélectionner ou isoler du matériel biologique disponible et à lelaisser agir dans des conditions naturelles;IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 33
b) les méthodes de traitement chirurgical, thérapeutique ou diagnostique applicables au
corps humain et les méthodes correspondantes applicables aux animaux, qui ne sont
pas considérées comme des inventions (article 5:9 de la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle); et
c) les variétés et les espèces végétales et les espèces et races animales.
Toutes les autres inventions, y compris les micro-organismes et les procédés non biologiques
ou microbiologiques peuvent être brevetés s'ils répondent aux conditions de nouveauté, d'activité
inventive et d'application industrielle.
Pour ce qui est des variétés végétales, un projet de loi, qui se trouve actuellement au Congrès
souverain national, se conforme aux dispositions de la Convention de l'UPOV, selon l'acte de 1991.
Le projet de loi pour la protection d'obtentions végétales se trouve en annexe.
13. Veuillez indiquer en détail les droits conférés au titulaire d'un brevet par la législation
hondurienne sur les brevets et citer les dispositions correspondantes.
L'article 17 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle stipule que le titulaire du brevet a le droit
d'exclure des tiers de l'utilisation de l'invention. Lorsque le brevet a été concédé pour un produit, le
titulaire a le droit d'agir contre toute personne qui, sans son autorisation:
a) fabrique le produit breveté;
b) offre à la vente, vend ou utilise le produit breveté; ouc) importe ou stocke le produit breveté dans le but de l'utiliser, de le vendre ou de l'offrir
à la vente.
Lorsque le brevet a été concédé pour un procédé, le titulaire a le droit d'agir contre toute
personne qui, sans son autorisation:
a) utilise le procédé breveté;
b) fabrique le produit directement obtenu par le procédé breveté;
c) offre à la vente, vend ou utilise le produit obtenu par le procédé breveté; oud) importe ou stocke le produit obtenu par le procédé breveté dans le but de l'utiliser, de
le vendre ou de l'offrir à la vente.
14. Veuillez décrire en détail les dispositions de la législation hondurienne permettant
l'utilisation non autorisée d'un brevet, en citant les dispositions correspondantes, et indiquer de
manière précise les conditions sous lesquelles une telle utilisation peut être autorisée.
Conformément à la législation hondurienne, il est possible d'autoriser l'utilisation d'un brevet,
sans le consentement du titulaire, pour des raisons d'intérêt public, d'urgence nationale, de sécurité
nationale, de nutrition ou de santé publique. Cette utilisation peut également être autorisée si le brevet
n'est pas exploité sur le territoire national dans les quatre ans suivant le dépôt de la demande ou dansles trois ans suivant la date de concession du brevet, en prenant en considération le délai qui expire le
plus tard (articles 66 et 70 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 34
L'article 31 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC établit un ensemble de conditions à respecter pour la
concession d'une licence obligatoire. Conformément à ces dispositions, la Loi hondurienne sur la
propriété industrielle établit que:
a) la personne qui demande une licence obligatoire doit apporter la preuve irréfutable
1) qu'elle a préalablement demandé au titulaire du brevet une licence contractuelle et
2) qu'elle n'a pas pu obtenir cette licence sous des conditions et dans un délai
raisonnables (article 67, premier alinéa);
b) lorsque la licence est demandée pour un brevet revendiquant une forme de
technologie des semi-conducteurs, la licence n'est concédée que pour un usage public
non commercial, en faveur d'une autorité publique ou d'une autre personne qui agitpour le compte de celle-ci, ou pour rectifier une pratique déclarée anticoncurrentielle
(article 67, deuxième alinéa);
c) les licences obligatoires sont principalement concédées pour approvisionner le
marché intérieur (article 67:1);
d) lors de la concession d'une licence obligatoire, le montant et le moyen de paiement
que devra effectuer le preneur de licence sont établis sur la base de l'importance de
l'exploitation de l'invention faisant l'objet de la licence et de la valeur économique de
la licence (article 67:3);
e) les licences obligatoires peuvent être révoquées, à la requête de la personne
intéressée, si les circonstances qui ont donné lieu à la licence cessent d'exister
(article 68, premier alinéa);
f) une licence obligatoire ne peut pas être concédée de manière exclusive, ne peut pas
faire l'objet d'une cession ou d'une sous-licence et ne peut être transférée qu'avec
l'entreprise ou l'établissement ou avec la partie de l'entreprise ou de l'établissement où
l'invention est exploitée industriellement (article 68, deuxième alinéa);
g) lorsqu'il s'agit de licences pour des brevets dépendants, les dispositions suivantes
devront être observées, outre les conditions précédentes:
i) les licences sont uniquement concédées lorsque l'invention revendiquée dans
le brevet ultérieur suppose un progrès technique d'un intérêt économique
considérable par rapport à l'invention protégée dans le brevet antérieur;
ii) à la requête du titulaire du brevet antérieur, une licence obligatoire peut être
concédée pour le second brevet; et
iii) ces licences peuvent uniquement faire l'objet d'une concession, d'un transfert
ou d'une sous-licence, lorsque le brevet dépendant fait simultanément l'objetd'une concession, d'un transfert ou d'une sous-licence (article 69);
h) pour tous les cas susmentionnés, il est possible de faire appel auprès du Ministère de
l'industrie et du commerce des résolutions prononcées par la Direction générale de la
propriété intellectuelle et les résolutions prononcées par ce ministère peuvent fairel'objet d'une révision par la voie administrative (article 149 de la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle et articles 137 à 140 de la Loi sur la procédure administrative).IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 35
15. Quelle est la durée de la protection prévue pour les brevets par la législation hondurienne sur
les brevets? Veuillez décrire les dispositions prévoyant une prolongation de la durée de la protection
et citer les dispositions pertinentes.
L'article 15 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle établit que la durée de protection d'une
invention est de vingt (20) ans à compter de la date de dépôt de la demande de brevet au Bureau
d'enregistrement de la propriété industrielle; ce délai ne peut être prorogé.
G. SCHÉMAS DE CONFIGURATION (TOPOGRAPHIES ) DE CIRCUITS INTÉGRÉS
16. Veuillez décrire en détail la protection prévue par la législation hondurienne pour les
schémas de configuration de circuits intégrés, en indiquant la durée de la protection, et citer les
dispositions correspondantes.
Le Honduras n'a pas encore légiféré de manière spécifique en matière de protection des
schémas de configuration, si bien que la protection est octroyée pour une période de dix ans, à
compter de la première exploitation commerciale du schéma, comme le stipule l'article 38:2 de
l'Accord sur les ADPIC qui fait partie de la législation hondurienne du fait qu'il a été adopté et ratifiécomme annexe de l'Accord de Marrakech inst ituant l'Organisation mondiale du commerce (OMC).
H. P
ROTECTION DES RENSEIGNEMENTS NON DIVULGUÉS
17. Veuillez indiquer en détail les modalités selon lesquelles la législation hondurienne protège
les renseignements non divulgués, comme l'exige l'article 39:2 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC, et citer lesdispositions correspondantes.
La protection des secrets industriels est prévue dans les articles 73 à 78 de la Loi sur la
propriété industrielle.
Conformément à cette loi, tout renseignement non divulgué qu'une personne physique ou
morale possède, qui peut être utilisé dans une activité productive, industrielle ou commerciale et qui
est susceptible d'être transmis à un tiers, est considéré comme un secret industriel (article 73 de la Loi
sur la propriété industrielle).
Un secret industriel est reconnu en tant que tel, aux fins de sa protection, lorsque les
renseignements qui le constituent, dans leur globalité ou dans la configuration et l'assemblage exactsde leurs éléments, ne sont pas généralement connus ou aisément accessibles par les personnes
appartenant aux milieux qui s'occupent normalement du genre de renseignements en question et que
ces renseignements ont fait l'objet, de la part de leur propriétaire légitime, de dispositions raisonnables
destinées à les garder secrets (article 74 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
La protection des renseignements non divulgués comprend le droit pour son propriétaire
légitime d'empêcher la réalisation, sans son consentement, de l'exploitation, de la communication ou
de la divulgation des renseignements auxquels un tiers a eu accès, alors que celui-ci était soumis à une
obligation de confidentialité découlant d'une obligation contractuelle ou de travail, et d'empêcher
l'acquisition de ces renseignements par des moyens illicites ou déloyaux (article 75 de la Loi sur lapropriété industrielle). À cet effet, l'article 76 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle établit qu'un secret
de fabrication est considéré comme acquis par des moyens illicites ou déloyaux lorsque l'acquisition
résulte, entre autres, de l'espionnage industriel, de l'inexécution d'un contrat ou d'une autre obligation,
de l'abus de confiance, du manque de loyauté ou de l'incitation à réaliser l'un de ces actes. Cette
protection est maintenue tant que le renseignement protégé répond aux conditions prévues pour qu'ilsoit considéré comme un secret industriel.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 36
18. Veuillez indiquer en détail comment la législation hondurienne protège les données résultant
d'essais concernant des produits pharmaceutiques ou des produits agrochimiques, qui sont
communiquées aux pouvoirs publics pour obtenir l'approbation de la commercialisation de ces
produits au Honduras et citer les dispositions correspondantes.
L'article 77 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle établit que, pour obtenir l'autorisation de
commercialisation ou de vente d'un produit pharm aceutique ou agrochimique contenant un nouveau
composant chimique, il est exigé de présenter les données ou les renseignements secrets, qui seront
protégés contre leur utilisation commerciale délo yale par des tiers et contre leur divulgation.
En outre, l'article 215 du Code pénal qualifie de délit la révélation, sans motif valable, ou
l'utilisation, pour son propre profit ou pour celui d'un tiers, d'un secret qu'une personne a appris enraison de sa fonction, de son emploi, de sa profession ou de son activité artistique, causant ainsi un
préjudice économique au propriétaire de ce renseignement. Cet acte est sanctionné par une peine
d'emprisonnement de trois (3) à six (6) ans, selon les circonstances.
19. Veuillez indiquer en détail comment la législation hondurienne protège les données résultant
d'essais concernant des produits pharmaceutiques ou des produits agrochimiques, qui sont
communiquées aux pouvoirs publics pour obtenir l'approbation de la commercialisation de ces
produits au Honduras et citer les dispositions correspondantes.
La protection des renseignements fournis pour obtenir l'autorisation de la commercialisation
d'un produit pharmaceutique ou agrochimique est accordée si les conditions suivantes sont respectées:
• que le produit contienne un nouveau composant chimique; et
• que les données d'essai fournies n'aient pas été divulguées auparavant.
La protection conférée implique l'obligation pour l'autorité administrative compétente de
protéger les renseignements contre leur utilisation déloyale par des tiers et contre leur divulgation,sauf si celle-ci est nécessaire pour protéger le public ou lorsque des mesures adéquates ont été
adoptées pour assurer que les données ou les renseignements soient protégés contre leur utilisation
commerciale déloyale par des tiers.
En vertu de ce qui précède, la protection prévue dans les articles 77 et 78 de la Loi sur la
propriété industrielle n'empêche pas un tiers de demander l'autorisation de commercialisation d'un
produit identique ou similaire contenant le même composant chimique, même s'il se base sur lesmêmes données d'essai, si le requérant prouve qu'il a obtenu ces renseignements de manière légitime
ou qu'il a eu accès à ceux-ci en raison de leur divulgation où que ce soit dans le monde.
Actuellement, la loi ne prévoit pas de délai spécifique pour la protection de ces
renseignements. Cependant, il est entendu que cette protection est maintenue tant que subsistent lesconditions requises.
I. M
OYENS DE FAIRE RESPECTER LES DROITS
20. Veuillez décrire en détail comment la législation hondurienne permet une action efficace
contre toute atteinte aux droits de propriété intellectuelle, comme l'exige l'article 41:1 de l'Accord surles ADPIC.
Afin de garantir le respect des droits de propriété intellectuelle, tant la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle que la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes autorisent le titulaire des droitsIP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 37
respectifs à intenter des actions administratives, aussi bien civiles que pénales, de manière à protéger
ses droits contre toute atteinte ou à empêcher ou prévenir la violation des droits et en éviter les
conséquences (articles 156 à 166 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes).
Les procédures civiles engagées en application des actions respectives sont instruites
conformément aux procédures établies dans le Code de procédure civile. Par la procédure civile, le
titulaire d'un droit protégé peut demander la cessation de l'activité illicite et le paiement de dommages
et intérêts. En matière de propriété industrielle, le titulaire du droit peut en outre demander la
revendication de son droit lorsque le brevet d'invention ou de modèle d'utilité ou l'enregistrement du
dessin industriel ou du signe distinctif a été demandé ou obtenu par une personne qui n'avait pas le
droit d'obtenir ce brevet ou cet enregistrement (article 158 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
La législation hondurienne prévoit également des procédures pénales en cas de violation du
droit d'auteur et des droits connexes et de violation de droits sur des marques et des signes distinctifs
(articles 248 à 263 du Code pénal).
Pour ce qui est des procédures d'ordre pénal, il appartient au Ministère public d'instruire les
actions pénales contre les responsables, si le titulaire ou le détenteur des droits violés a entamé cette
poursuite en dénonçant la violation de ces droits, sans préjudice que l'intéressé dépose la plainte
correspondante auprès des tribunaux compétents (article 152:1, 152:2 et 152:3 du Code de procédure
pénale).
En outre, la législation prévoit la possibilité de demander, même avant d'instruire l'une des
actions susmentionnées, des mesures ou des ordonnances conservatoires pour la protection des droits,
afin d'empêcher la violation de ces droits, d'en éviter les conséquences ou d'obtenir et conserver des
éléments de preuve (article 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle, article 174 de la Loi sur le droit
d'auteur et les droits connexes et article 270 du Code de procédure civile).1 De plus, la législation
prévoit la possibilité de recourir à des mesures à la frontière, dans le but d'ordonner la suspension de
l'importation ou de l'exportation de marchandises qui portent préjudice ou contreviennent aux droits
protégés par la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes et par la Loi sur la propriété industrielle
(articles 174:5 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes et 163:4 de la Loi sur la propriété
industrielle).
21. Conformément à l'article 43 alinéa 1 de l'Acco rd sur les ADPIC, les juges sont autorisés à
ordonner la production des éléments de preuve nécessaires à étayer les allégations d'une partie
lorsque celle-ci n'a pas été en mesure d'obtenir ces éléments de preuve parce qu'ils sont en la
possession de la partie adverse. Veuillez indiquer les modalités selon lesquelles la législation ou
réglementation hondurienne permet cette autorisati on, en citant les dispositions correspondantes.
En ce qui concerne la faculté des autorités de demander à la partie adverse, au cours d'une
procédure, de produire les éléments de preuve qu'elle possède, l'article 69 du Code de procédure
administrative établit que, lorsque l'autorité compétente pour statuer n'est pas convaincue de
l'exactitude des faits allégués par la partie intéressée et que celle-ci le demande, elle peut accorder
l'ouverture d'une période destinée à la production d'éléments de preuve, qui ne peut être inférieure àdix jours ni supérieure à vingt jours.
22. Veuillez indiquer en détail l'ensemble des mesures correctives civiles auxquelles peuvent
avoir recours les titulaires de droits conformément à la législation hondurienne, en citant les
dispositions pertinentes de la loi ou réglementation concernée.
Voir les réponses aux questions 20 et 23.
1 Pour plus d’informations sur les mesures conservatoires, voir la réponse à la question 23.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 38
23. Veuillez décrire en détail les procédures et mesures correctives provisoires auxquelles
peuvent avoir recours les titulaires de droits conformément à la législation hondurienne, en citant les
dispositions pertinentes de la loi ou réglementation concernée, et indiquer toute condition en vertu de
laquelle un titulaire de droit peut se prévaloir de ces procédures et mesures correctives.
Conformément aux dispositions des articles 163 et 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle
et des articles 173 et 174 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes, les autorités judiciaires
sont habilitées à ordonner, selon le cas, toute mesure qui empêche la commission d'actes illicites ou
qui impose la cessation de ceux-ci afin d'en éviter les conséquences. Ces mesures peuvent également
être ordonnées pour obtenir ou conserver des éléments de preuve et pour assurer l'application des
actions exercées par le titulaire du droit. Parmi les mesures qui peuvent être ordonnées se trouvent:
a) la saisie des objets résultant de l'infraction et des moyens principalement utilisés pour
commettre l'infraction;
b) l'interdiction de l'importation ou de l'exportation des produits, du matériel ou des
moyens principalement utilisés pour commettre l'infraction;
c) le retrait des circuits commerciaux des objets ou des moyens principalement utilisés
pour commettre l'infraction; et
d) toute mesure nécessaire afin d'éviter que la violation ne soit poursuivie ou répétée, y
compris la destruction des moyens saisis, si cela est indispensable.
Une mesure conservatoire est uniquement ordonnée lorsque la personne qui la demande
justifie sa qualité pour agir, prouve l'existence du droit violé, présente les éléments de preuve quipermettent de présumer irréfutablement la commission de l'infraction ou son imminence, prouve que
le retard de l'application de la mesure entraînera un dommage irréparable ou plus important et, en
outre, constitue une caution ou une garantie suffisante pour répondre des éventuels préjudices
résultant de l'application de la mesure (article 270 du Code de procédure civile, article 13 du Code
procédure pénale et article 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
Les mesures conservatoires peuvent être appliquées sans que la partie adverse soit
préalablement entendue (inaudita altera parte) , auquel cas cette partie doit être notifiée
immédiatement de l'application des mesures (article 270 du Code de procédure civile). Les mesures
conservatoires appliquées avant d'entamer l'action sur le fond de l'affaire seront sans effet de plein
droit si l'intéressé n'intente pas l'action principale dans les quinze (15) jours ouvrables suivant leur
application, conformément aux dispositions de l'article du Code de procédure civile.
J. P
RESCRIPTIONS SPÉCIALES CONCERNANT LES MESURES À LA FRONTIÈRE
24. Veuillez décrire en détail les procédures prévues par la législation hondurienne pour assurer
une protection des droits à la frontière, au moins en ce qui concerne les actes de contrefaçon de
marques de fabrique ou de commerce ou le piratage portant atteinte à un droit d'auteur, en indiquant
l'autorité compétente et en citant les dispositions pertinentes de la loi ou réglementation concernée.
La suspension du dédouanement d'une importation ou exportation est expressément prévue
par les lois sur la propriété intellectuelle (article 174:5 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits
connexes et articles 163 et 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle), parmi les mesures que letitulaire d'un droit protégé peut demander en cas de violation de son droit. L'application de ces
mesures par les autorités douanières requiert un ordre judiciaire, que celui-ci ait été obtenu en
conséquence de l'instruction d'une action civile ou pénale ou à la suite d'une mesure conservatoire.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 39
Dans ce dernier cas, les mêmes dispositions relatives aux mesures conservatoires mentionnées dans la
réponse à la question 23 sont appliquées.
Il existe actuellement un projet de règlement de la part de la Direction exécutive des recettes
publiques (Douanes), qui prévoit, conformément aux dispositions de l'Accord sur les ADPIC, toutes
les procédures que cet organisme doit appliquer pour mettre en œuvre les mesures préventives qui
ordonnent la suspension de l'importation ou de l'exportation des produits qui violent un droit de
propriété intellectuelle. Le projet prévoit en outre la possibilité de demander la mesure directement à
la Direction exécutive des recettes publiques (Douanes).
25. Veuillez indiquer si les titulaires d'autres formes de droits de propriété intellectuelle peuvent
recourir à des mesures à la frontière pour le respect de leurs droits et, dans l'affirmative, veuillezdécrire les procédures et les mesures correctives prévues pour chaque forme de propriété
intellectuelle, en citant les dispositions pertinentes de la loi.
Oui. La suspension d'une importation de produits violant un droit peut être demandée,
comme mesure conservatoire, pour toutes les catégories de propriété intellectuelle protégées par leslois honduriennes (article 174:5 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes et articles 163
et 165 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle).
26. L'article 58 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC établit les procédures à suivre lorsque les autorités
compétentes peuvent mener une action d'office. Veuillez indiquer si les autorités compétentes auHonduras sont habilitées à mener une action d'office et, dans l'affirmative, préciser les domaines de
propriété intellectuelle soumis à une telle action.
À l'heure actuelle, il n'est pas possible pour les autorités douanières de mener une action
d'office. Cependant, l'article 4 a) du projet de règlement des prescriptions spéciales liées aux mesuresà la frontière prévoit que les autorités douanières peuvent mener une action d'office lorsqu'il est
évident qu'il s'agit de marchandises qui portent atteinte au droit de propriété intellectuelle avec
usurpation de marque ou qu'il s'agit de marchandises pirates, cette action étant menée au moment où
s'effectue le dédouanement des marchandises, conformément à l'article 57 de la Loi sur les douanes
incluse dans le Décret-loi numéro 212 – 87.
K. P
ROCÉDURES PÉNALES
27. Veuillez indiquer en détail comment la législation hondurienne assure la mise en œuvre de
l'article 61 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC aux termes duquel les Membres prévoiront des procédures
pénales et des peines, incluant l'emprisonnement et /ou des amendes suffisantes pour être dissuasives,
applicables au moins pour les actes délibérés de contrefaçon de marque de fabrique ou de commerce
ou portant atteinte à des droits de propriété intellectuelle, commis à une échelle commerciale.Veuillez citer les dispositions pertinentes de la loi ou réglementation concernée.
En matière de propriété intellectuelle, la législation hondurienne (articles 248A, 249, 251
et 299 du Code pénal) prévoit des procédures pénales, comprenant des peines privatives de liberté de
trois à six ans et une amende de cinquante mille (50 000) à cent mille (100 000) lempiras, dans le casdes infractions suivantes:
a) utilisation de signaux de télévision transmis par satellite et reproduction ou projection
de vidéos, de films et d'autres œuvres analogues, sans l'autorisation du titulaire des
droits;IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 40
b) fabrication ou vente d'articles qui, en raison de leur nom, marque, présentation ou
apparence, peuvent être confondus avec des produits similaires brevetés ou
enregistrés au nom d'une autre personne;
c) contrefaçon, imitation ou utilisation frauduleuse d'une quelconque des catégories ou
biens juridiques protégés par la Loi sur la propriété industrielle (inventions, modèles
d'utilité, dessins industriels et signes distinctifs);
d) commercialisation d'une quelconque des catégories ou biens juridiques protégés par
la Loi sur la propriété industrielle (inventions, modèles d'utilité, dessins industriels et
signes distinctifs); et
e) réalisation d'actes de concurrence déloyale, conformément à l'article 299:3 du Code
pénal qui dispose que toute personne qui commet des actes de concurrence déloyale,
selon les règles établies par le Code de commerce, par d'autres lois spéciales ou par
des conventions internationales, est sanctionnée d'une peine d'emprisonnement de
trois (3) à cinq (5) ans et d'une amende de 50 000 à 10 000 lempiras.
Des peines privatives de liberté sont également prévues dans les cas suivants:Pour ce qui est de la violation et de la révélation de secrets industriels, les articles 214 et 215
du Code pénal établissent que toute personne qui, sans l'autorisation judiciaire nécessaire et dansquelque but que ce soit, s'approprie les papiers ou la correspondance d'un tiers et intercepte ou fait
intercepter ses communications ou des informations de nature différente est sanctionnée d'une peine
d'emprisonnement de six (6) à huit (8) ans s'il s'agit d'un particulier et de huit (8) à douze (12) ans s'il
s'agit d'un fonctionnaire ou d'un employé public et que toute personne qui révèle sans motif valable ou
utilise, pour son propre profit ou pour celui d'un autre, un secret qu'elle a appris en raison sa fonctionet qu'elle cause ainsi un préjudice à un tiers est sanctionnée d'une peine d'emprisonnement de trois (3)
à six (6) ans.
Des sanctions pécuniaires (amende de dix à deux cents fois le salaire minimum) sont prévues
pour les cas mentionnés dans l'article 156 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes et dans
les articles 167, 168 et 171 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle.
28. L'article 61 dispose également que, dans les cas appropriés, les sanctions possibles incluront
la saisie, la confiscation et la destruction des marchandises en cause et de tous matériaux et
instruments ayant principalement servi à commettre le délit. Veuillez décrire les dispositions de la
législation hondurienne qui prévoient de telles sanctions et indiquer les circonstances dans lesquelles
ces sanctions seraient appliquées, en citant les dispositions pertinentes de la loi ou réglementationconcernée.
L'article 174:4 de la Loi sur le droit d'auteur et les droits connexes prévoit la possibilité
d'ordonner la saisie d'exemplaires d'une œuvre ou d'un enregistrement sonore pour lesquels il existe
des motifs valables de penser qu'ils ont été réalisés ou importés sans l'autorisation du titulaire du droit,ainsi que des emballages de ces exemplaires et des moyens qui ont été utilisés pour les réaliser.
L'article 163:3 et 163:5 et l'article 165:2 de la Loi sur la propriété industrielle contiennent les mêmes
dispositions pour les inventions, les modèles d'utilité, les dessins industriels et les signes distinctifs
protégés.
29. L'article 61 dispose en outre que les Membres pourront prévoir des procédures pénales et des
peines applicables aux actes commis délibérément et portant atteinte à d'autres formes de propriété
intellectuelle. Veuillez décrire les dispositions de la législation hondurienne qui prévoient ces
procédures et sanctions, en citant les dispositions pertinentes de la loi ou réglementation concernée.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 41
Voir la réponse à la question 27.
L. QUESTIONS STATISTIQUES
30. Veuillez fournir pour l'année 2000 des données statistiques sur les actions intentées au civil
pour faire respecter le droit d'auteur ou les droits attachés à une marque de fabrique ou decommerce, à une indication géographique, à un dessin ou modèle industriel, à un brevet, à un schéma
de configuration de circuit intégré ou à un secret commercial, en précisant le nombre d'affaires
portées devant la justice, d'injonctions prononcées, de saisies effectuées sur des produits ou du
matériel portant atteinte à ces droits, d'affaires réglées (y compris à l'amiable) et le montant des
dommages et intérêts alloués.
La loi prévoit des actions civiles dans ce domaine, mais aucune action de ce type n'a été
intentée en raison de l'absence de demandes de la part des titulaires des droits, puisque ceux-ci ont
préféré intenter des actions par la voie administrative.
31. Veuillez fournir pour l'année 2000 des données statistiques sur les actions intentées au pénal
pour des actes de piratage portant atteinte au droit d'auteur et pour la contrefaçon de marques defabrique ou de commerce, en précisant le nombre de descentes de police effectuées, de poursuites
engagées, de condamnations prononcées et le montant des amendes et/ou des peines
d'emprisonnement infligées (en indi quant si les amendes ont été payées et si les peines de prison ont
été effectivement purgées ou s'il y a été sursis), ainsi que tout autre renseignement établissant que le
système pénal décourage de façon efficace les actes de piratage portant atteinte au droit d'auteur etla contrefaçon de marques de fabrique ou de commerce.
Les données statistiques sont annexées.IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 42
ANNEXE I
QUANTITÉ DE PRODUITS SAISIS
1996-2001
Description du produit Quantité
PHONOGRAMMES
VIDÉOGRAMMESDISQUES COMPACTS
CASSETTES DE PLAYSTATION
MARQUES DE FABRIQUE (MÉDICAMENTS)
ÉQUIPEMENT ET MATÉRIEL12 868
7 216
541
408
500
300
ACTIONS JUDICIAIRES INTENTÉES
1997-2001
Lieu des actions Nombre Observations de l'État
Tegucigalpa
Comayagüela
Ceiba
Choluteca
Juticalpa
San Pedro SulaSanta Rosa de Copán
Danlí9
15
1
4
1
10
1
23 en séance plénière
Total des actions 43IP/C/W/277/Add.1
Page 43ANNEXE II
SAISIES DE MATÉRIEL ILLÉGAL EFFECTUÉES
1996-2001
TOTAL DES SAISIES TOTAL PAR PRODUIT Lieu de saisie Description du produit 1996-1997
Montant en
USD1998-2001
Montant en
USDUSD Lps USD Lps
Tegucigalpa et Comayagüela
Région de CeibaRégion de CholutecaSanta Rosa de CopánPHONOGRAMMES
"""335 000,00
6 126,087 391,30
26 086,00374 604,34 5 244 460,76
Tegucigalpa et Comayagüela
Région de Ceiba
Région de CholutecaSanta Rosa de CopánPHONOGRAMMES
"
""125 740,57
44 146,75
4 578,00
19 762,59194 227,91 2 699 767,95 568 832,25 7 944 288,71
Tegucigalpa et Comayagüela
Région de San Pedro Sula
Autres régionsVIDÉOGRAMMES
"
"45 520,00
1 304,35
13 026,1859 850,53 825 937,31 59 850,53 825 937,31
Tegucigalpa et Comayagüela
Région de San Pedro SulaÉQUIPEMENT ET
MATÉRIEL"21 735,51
14 388,4936 124,00 502 123,60 36 124,00 502 123,60
TOTAL GÉNÉRAL DES SAISIES 664 806,78 9 272 349,62
__________
| 20,891 | 138,516 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_SPS_NKOR89.pdf
|
R_G_SPS_NKOR89
|
. /.ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEG/SPS/N/KOR/89
23 mars 2001
(01-1422)
Comité des mesures sanitaires et phytosanitaires Original: anglais
NOTIFICATION
1. Membre de l’Accord adressant la notification: RÉPUBLIQUE DE CORÉE
Le cas échéant, pouvoirs publics locaux concernés:
2. Organisme responsable: Service national de la recherche et de la quarantaine vétérinaires
(NVRQS) du Ministère de l'agriculture et des forêts
3. Produits visés (Prière d'indiquer le (les) numéro(s) du tarif figurant dans les listes
nationales déposées à l'OMC. Les numéros de l'ICS peuvent aussi être indiqués, le cas
échéant). Régions ou pays susceptibles d'être concernés, si cela est pertinent ou
faisable: Produits d'origine animale importés de tous pays.
4. Intitulé et nombre de pages du texte notifié: Projet de notification du NVRQS
définissant le champ d'application et les critères des procédures de stérilisation,
de pasteurisation et de transformation des produits animaux importés (7 pages).
5. Teneur: Le Service national de la recherche et de la quarantaine vétérinaires propose un
projet de texte définissant le champ d'application et les critères des procédures de
stérilisation, de pasteurisation et de transformation des produits animaux, dans le but degarantir l'efficacité du système de quarantaine et d'inspection à l'importation conformément
aux dispositions de l'article 20.2 de la Loi sur la prévention des épidémies des animaux
d'élevage et de l'article 15 du décret ministériel s'y rapportant.
Les produits d'origine animale qui ont été stérilisés, pasteurisés ou transformés d'une
manière conforme aux règles proposées peuvent n'être pas soumis aux procédures de
quarantaine et d'inspection à l'importation applicables.
• Le terme "stérilisation" s'entend des conditions dans lesquelles les produits visés
peuvent être transportés en contenants scellés sans recontamination après untraitement thermique dans une atmosphère saturée en vapeur (pendant 15 à 20
minutes à non moins de 121°C ou pendant au moins 35 minutes à non moins de
115°C) ou à l'air chaud sec (pendant 1 à 2 heures à 160-170°C), ou après un
traitement appliqué suivant une autre méthode équivalente au traitement thermique
susmentionné.
• Pour les produits associés à l'encéphalo pathie spongiforme bovine (ESB), les
procédures d'inactivation des agents responsables des encéphalopathies
spongiformes transmissibles (EST) du Code zoosanitaire international de l'OIE
doivent être appliquées.
Ces règles ne sont pas appliquées aux produits associés à l'ESB en provenance de pays
touchés par l'ESB et d'autres pays risquant d' être touchés par l'ESB qui ont fait l'objet des
notifications G/SPS/N/KOR/80 et 85.G/SPS/N/KOR/89
Page 2
6. Objectif et raison d'être: [ X ] innocuité des produits alimentaires, [ X ] santé des
animaux, [ ] préservation des végétaux, [ ] protection des personnes contre les
maladies ou les parasites des animaux/des plantes, [ ] protection du territoire contre
d'autres dommages attribuables à des parasites
7.Il n'existe pas de norme, directive ou recommandation internationale [ ].
S'il existe une norme, directive ou recommandation internationale, en donner la
référence correcte et indiquer brièvement en quoi le texte notifié est différent:
D'une manière générale, le texte notifié est aligné sur les normes, directives ou
recommandations de l'OIE et de la Commission du Codex Alimentarius.
8. Documents pertinents et langue(s) dans laquelle (lesquelles) ils sont disponibles:
Avis n° 2001-2 du NVRQS du 23 février 2001 (disponible en coréen).
9. Date projetée pour l'adoption: À déterminer
10. Date projetée pour l'entrée en vigueur: La date d'entrée en vigueur sera communiquée au
moment de la publication du texte final.
11. Date limite pour la présentation des observations: 15 mai 2001
Organisme ou autorité désigné pour traiter les observations: [ ] autorité nationale
responsable des notifications, [ ] point national d'information ou adresse, numéro de
téléfax et adresse électronique (s'il y a lieu) d'un autre organisme:
Quarantine and Inspection Service
National Veterinary Research and Quarantine Service
Téléphone: 82 31 467 1937
Téléfax: 82 31 467 1717
Courrier électronique: [email protected]
12. Entité auprès de laquelle le texte peut être obtenu: [ X ] autorité nationale responsable
des notifications, [ X ] point national d'information ou adresse, numéro de téléfax et
adresse électronique (s'il y a lieu) d'un autre organisme:
Quarantine and Inspection Service
National Veterinary Research and Quarantine Service
Téléphone: 82 31 467 1937
Téléfax: 82 31 467 1717
Courrier électronique: [email protected]
| 680 | 4,662 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_S_Wpdr_M8.pdf
|
S_S_Wpdr_M8
|
RESTRICTEDORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOS/WPDR/M/8
17 de noviembre de 2000
(00-4945)
Grupo de Trabajo sobre la Reglamentación Nacional
INFORME DE LA REUNIÓN CELEBRADA EL 2 DE OCTUBRE DE 2000
Nota de la Secretaría
1. El Grupo de Trabajo sobre la Reglamentación Nacional celebró una reunión formal en la
tarde del 2 de octubre de 2000, habiendo celebrado una reunión informal en la mañana de ese mismo
día. El orden del día de la reunión figuraba en el aerograma WTO/AIR/1391. Las deliberaciones en
la reunión informal giraron en torno a las cuestiones sustantivas individualizadas en el documento
informal de la Secretaría titulado Lista recapitulativa de cuestiones para el Grupo de Trabajo sobre la
Reglamentación Nacional . La reunión formal se centró en las consultas de los Miembros con las
organizaciones nacionales de servicios profesionales, así como en el tema de las consultas mantenidas
por la Secretaría con las organizaciones profesionales internacionales.
a) Examen de los conceptos relativos a la elaboración de disciplinas en materia de
reglamentación
2. El Presidente comentó que los Miembros habían mantenido un excelente debate en la reunión
informal celebrada por la mañana. Como no se había podido poner fin al debate en la sesión de la
mañana, los Miembros acordaron reanudarlo al concluir la reunión formal. Se adjunta como anexo
del presente documento un resumen de las deliberaciones, preparado bajo la responsabilidad del
Presidente.
3. El Presidente señaló a continuación que, con po sterioridad a la reunión anterior del Grupo de
Trabajo, se habían distribuido comunicaciones de dos delegaciones, a saber, una de Australia, en el
documento S/WPDR/W/8, de 15 de septiembre, y otra de Corea, en el documento S/WPDR/W/9,
de 27 de septiembre.
4. El representante de Australia manifestó que el documento de su delegación contenía dos
propuestas sobre la prueba de necesidad y sobre la transparencia, basadas en los precedentes del
Acuerdo sobre Obstáculos Técnicos al Comercio (OTC) y del Acuerdo sobre la Aplicación de
Medidas Sanitarias y Fitosanitarias (MSF), las disciplinas sobre la contabilidad y el artículo III del
AGCS. Respecto de la necesidad, el documento proponía una prueba de necesidad concisamente
redactada, que se basaba en el artículo 5 del Acuerdo MSF. A este respecto, Australia era partidaria
de una lista breve, no exhaustiva, de objetivos legítimos, basada en los enumerados en las disciplinassobre contabilidad. Afirmó que las normas sobre necesidad y transparencia se complementaban entre
sí, es decir, que las disposiciones sobre necesidad imponían disciplinas en tanto que las disposiciones
sobre transparencia proporcionaban información. Australia no creía que las medidas de transparencia
por sí solas fuesen suficientes. El representante manifestó también que las disciplinas que habrían de
elaborarse deberían ser de carácter horizontal, no sectorial, por varias razones: mejoraría la eficiencia,garantizaría la coherencia del proceso en todos los sectores y reduciría el riesgo de "captura
regulatoria" por parte de intereses sectoriales.S/WPDR/M/8
Página 2
5. El representante de Corea señaló que, en la reunión anterior del Grupo de Trabajo, Corea
había intervenido para pedir aclaración sobre la diferente terminología utilizada en los debates de la
OMC sobre la prueba de necesidad, a saber, "que restrinja menos el comercio", "no restrinjan el
comercio más de lo necesario", "no sean más gravosas de lo necesario", y la prueba de
proporcionalidad. A petición de otros Miembros, aquella intervención se presentaba ahora porescrito. La conclusión principal de Corea era que la proporcionalidad era un tipo de prueba basada en
la relación "medios-fin", en tanto que las otras tres examinaban solamente la existencia de medidas
alternativas. De esas tres, las dos primeras se centraban en el comercio transfronterizo, en tanto que la
fórmula "no sean más gravosas de lo necesario" se centraba en procedimientos internos.
6. El representante de Corea manifestó que los redactores del AGCS, al considerar que el
acuerdo trata de cuatro modos de suministro, parece que fueron muy cuidadosos en su terminología.
En el mismo sentido, cualquier criterio establecido para la prueba de necesidad también tenía queabarcar los cuatro modos. Esa era la base sobre la que Corea había elaborado su propia propuesta, tal
como aparecía en el documento de referencia.
7. El Presidente agradeció a las dos delegaciones sus contribuciones e indicó que seguiría siendo
necesario proseguir las deliberaciones informales. Instó a los Miembros a que presentaran otros
documentos al respecto.
8. El delegado de Corea pidió que se aclarara si la creación de disciplinas sectoriales, y no
horizontales, estaba relacionada con la existencia de compromisos específicos en la lista de un
Miembro. La delegación del Canadá apuntó que el ámbito de aplicación era una cuestión que se debía
debatir y que había varias opciones, a saber, la aplicación horizontal, la aplicación solamente en elcaso de asunción de compromisos específicos, o la aplicación en forma de un documento dereferencia. La delegación de Hong Kong, China preguntó acerca de la terminología utilizada en la
Lista recapitulativa con respecto a las cuestiones del alcance y de la prueba de necesidad. A petición
del Presidente, la Secretaría respondió que tenía por objeto proporcionar la gama más amplia posible
de opciones, es decir, que no se trataba solamente de determinar si las disciplinas habían de estarcondicionadas a la existencia de compromisos específicos, sino también de si las disciplinas habríande aplicarse sobre una base horizontal o sectorial.
b) Elaboración de disciplinas generales para los servicios profesionales
9. Las deliberaciones sobre este punto del orden del día, mantenidas también con carácter
informal, se iniciaron con la presentación por Corea de su informe escrito sobre las consultas
celebradas con las organizaciones nacionales de servicios profesionales (S/WPDR/W/10,
de 2 de octubre), seguida por informes orales de otros Miembros.
10. El Presidente, tras señalar que los Miembros estaban un tanto retrasados en concluir las
consultas con servicios profesionales nacionales, preguntó si la Secretaría debería empezar a compilar
una síntesis de las respuestas recibidas hasta la fecha, que pudiera revisarse periódicamente a medida
que fueran llegando otros informes. Tras un debate de carácter informal, los Miembros acordaron
pedir a la Secretaría que iniciase la compilación.
11. Acerca de la cuestión paralela de las consultas mantenidas por la Secretaría con las
organizaciones profesionales internacionales relativas a disciplinas de contabilidad, algunas
delegaciones estimaron que primero se debía concluir las consultas nacionales, pese al hecho de que
ya había expirado el plazo convenido en un principio para las consultas. Los Miembros se declararon
en situación de aceptar la sugerencia del Presidente de que la lista de organizaciones internacionalesrealizada por la Secretaría que habría de consultarse y que contenía organizaciones seleccionadas por
los Miembros, se revisara con objeto de eliminar de ella a las organizaciones regionales que no
estuvieran abiertas a todos los Miembros de la OMC.S/WPDR/M/8
Página 3
12. El Presidente puso fin al examen de ese punto manifestando que, a juzgar por los informes
recibidos, había apoyo general a la aplicabilidad de las disciplinas de contabilidad a otros servicios
profesionales. Al mismo tiempo, muchas profesiones indicaron que sería necesario adoptar
disciplinas específicas adicionales para dar cabida a sus prescripciones. Se pidió a la Secretaría que
elaborara una síntesis de los resultados obtenidos hasta la fecha con las consultas mantenidas por losMiembros con organizaciones nacionales de servicios profesionales, en la que se indicara tanto el
número de respuestas recibidas como el hecho de que los resultados eran preliminares, y que
elaborara también una lista revisada de organizaciones internacionales de servicios profesionales.
c) Solicitud de la condición de observador de la Asociación Internacional de Supervisores de
Seguros
13. El Presidente mencionó -como ya lo había hecho en la reunión precedente del Grupo de
Trabajo- que se había recibido una solicitud para obtener la condición de observador remitida por la
Asociación Internacional de Superintendentes de Seguros (AISS). La solicitud figuraba en el
documento sin signatura Nº 779, de fecha 10 de febrero de 2000. Esa Asociación también había
solicitado la condición de observador al Comité de Servicios Financieros. En la última reunión los
Miembros habían vuelto a coincidir en que se necesitaba seguir estudiando la cuestión, por lo quehabían decidido aplazarla hasta la reunión en curso.
14. La delegación del Pakistán señaló a la atención de los Miembros el párrafo 18 del acta de la
reunión precedente del Grupo de Trabajo y dijo que su delegación apoyaba plenamente lo que allí se
había expuesto y que los Miembros debían aplazar nuevamente la adopción de una decisión.
15. El Presidente preguntó a los Miembros si se debía suprimir temporalmente del orden del día
ese tema. Las delegaciones del Pakistán y de Malasia respondieron afirmativamente. El
representante de Hong Kong, China dijo que se debía suprimir el tema, pero solamente en lo que se
refería a la AISS y al orden del día del Grupo de Trabajo.
16. El Presidente dijo que el tema se eliminaría del orden del día hasta nuevo aviso.
d) Fecha de la próxima reunión
17. El Presidente volvió a señalar que los Miembros habían pedido que las reuniones de los
órganos subsidiarios se agruparan en fechas próxima s a las de las reuniones del Consejo. Atendiendo
a esa petición, propuso que la siguiente reunión del Grupo de Trabajo se celebrara el jueves 29 de
noviembre, justo después de la próxima reunión del Consejo. Los Miembros aprobaron la propuesta.S/WPDR/M/8
Página 4
ANEXO
RESUMEN DE LOS DEBATES INFORMALES SOBRE LA LISTA
RECAPITULATIVA DE CUESTIONES PARA EL GRUPO DE
TRABAJO SOBRE LA REGLAMENTACIÓN NACIONAL
Cuestiones generales
Un Miembro señaló que se debía tomar en consideración el carácter temporal del párrafo 5
del artículo VI del AGCS. La Secretaría, en respuesta a la solicitud de que formulara observaciones al
respecto, señaló que el párrafo 5 del artículo VI debería abordarse después de la elaboración dedisciplinas en materia de reglamentación de conformidad con el párrafo 4 del artículo VI.
1. Ejemplos de cuestiones reglamentarias concretas:
Los Miembros acordaron que la Secretaría e numerara ejemplos de los tipos de medidas que
estarían comprendidas en las disciplinas en el marco del párrafo 4 del artículo VI del AGCS, sobre la
base de las contribuciones de los Miembros y de un examen realizado por la Secretaría de los
materiales sobre contabilidad del Grupo de Trabajo sobre los Servicios Profesionales. El Presidente
señaló que la preparación de esa lista no excluiría deliberaciones paralelas entre los Miembros sobre
la misma cuestión.
2. Vínculo existente entre la transparencia y la necesidad:
Los delegados se refirieron tanto a las ventajas (mayor responsabilidad) como a los
inconvenientes (carga administrativa adicional) que implica una más amplia transparencia. Variasdelegaciones señalaron que reforzar la transparencia en el proceso de reglamentación contribuiría a
garantizar que la reglamentación no fuese más restrictiva del comercio de lo necesario. Sin embargo,
algunos sostuvieron que la transparencia de por sí tenía sus límites, razón por la cual no podía sustituir
las disciplinas en materia de reglamentación. El Presidente pidió que las delegaciones expusiesen sus
opiniones más en detalle en los debates ulteriores.
Necesidad
3. Objetivos legítimos:
La mayoría de los Miembros que intervinieron apoyaron la creación de una lista ilustrativa
concisa y no exhaustiva de objetivos legítimos. A su parecer enumerar "objetivos no legítimos",además de demasiado restrictivo no sería conveniente. Un Miembro indicó que debía darse prioridad
a la elaboración de disciplinas concretas, y sólo después se procedería a enumerar los objetivos
legítimos. Otra delegación afirmó que la determinación de los objetivos legítimos era de la
competencia exclusiva de los gobiernos Miembros. Se consideró en general que la cuestión de
determinar si se enumeran los objetivos legítimos a nivel horizontal o bien a nivel sectorial debía serobjeto de negociación.
4. Ámbito de la prueba de necesidad:
Casi todas las delegaciones que se pronunciaron al respecto consideraron que el párrafo 4 del
artículo VI del AGCS no se extendía más allá de los cinco temas enumerados. Si bien se consideró en
general que las definiciones contenidas en el párrafo 4 del documento S/C/W/96 eran aceptables, que
de ser necesario podían ser objeto de una revisión. Algunas delegaciones dijeron que sólo las
disciplinas horizontales debían ser aplicables a los sectores en cuyo marco se hubieran contraídoS/WPDR/M/8
Página 5
compromisos específicos. Otras delegaciones consideraron que también esta cuestión debía
negociarse.
5. Criterios para la aplicación de la prueba de necesidad:
El Presidente tomó nota de que los Miembros habían presentado nuevos documentos sobre
este tema. Varias delegaciones señalaron que habían comenzado a analizar a nivel nacional las
consecuencias de las diferencias de terminología. Un Miembro preguntó a quién incumbía la carga de
la prueba con respecto a la necesidad. Otro manifestó preocupación por el hecho de que el Grupo de
Trabajo tratara de definir términos cuya aplicación trascendía el comercio de servicios, y cuya
definición incumbía a grupos especiales o al Órgano de Apelación. Se preguntó a la Secretaría si en
el pasado había compilado información sobre la jurisprudencia relativa a la aplicación de la prueba denecesidad en la OMC. La Secretaría respondió que ese material se podría preparar. Se preguntó si
había una diferencia entre el carácter restrictivo y el carácter gravoso en el contexto del párrafo 4 del
artículo VI. La Secretaría respondió que había una diferencia, que una medida podía ser más gravosa
que necesaria pero no hasta el punto de ser restrictiva del comercio, e inversamente.
6. El "tercer aspecto" de la prueba de necesidad:
Una delegación dijo que debían considerarse los criterios que se utilizarían para aplicar el
"tercer aspecto" (es decir, la idea de que una medida que tenga por efecto restringir el comercio sólo
puede ser considerada "necesaria" si no hay otra medida posible menos restrictiva del comercio de laque pueda razonablemente hacer uso un Miembro para la consecución del mismo objetivo de
política). Otra delegación señaló que el "tercer aspecto" podía ser excesivamente gravoso habida
cuenta de la vasta escala de los sectores de servicios. Se respondió que el "tercer aspecto" era en
realidad un medio de examinar alternativas para determinados reglamentos.
Transparencia
7. Definición de reglamentación:
Una delegación señaló que deseaba aclarar que los procesos legislativos no podían ser
examinados por el Grupo de Trabajo por tratarse de uno de los tipos de reglamentación a los que
podían aplicarse las prescripciones en materia de observaciones previas. Otras delegacionesmanifestaron su acuerdo, si bien consideraron que no era necesaria una nueva definición porque las
reglamentaciones ya estaban comprendidas en la definición del término "medida" del AGCS en el
artículo XXVIII. Una delegación indicó que el único mecanismo con respecto a observaciones
preliminares previsto en la legislación de su país se aplicaba a las normas en el marco de los Acuerdos
OTC y MSF. En opinión de otra delegación los Miembros debían determinar si los reglamentosdefinidos en el AGCS eran equivalentes a los defini dos en el Acuerdo OTC o en otros Acuerdos de la
OMC y si las prescripciones en materia de notificación sólo debían aplicarse en las esferas en que no
existían normas internacionales.
8. Objetivos de transparencia:
Varias delegaciones instaron a proceder con prudencia en relación con las nuevas
disposiciones sobre transparencia y pidieron a los Miembros que tuviesen en cuenta los costos así
como los beneficios. Observaron que con respecto a la carga administrativa, este punto guardaba
relación con el punto 12 de la lista recapitulativa. Una delegación señaló que no podía permitirse, porlo que se refiere a las disposiciones de transparencia, un régimen de normas de notificación dual, por
ejemplo, entre distintos niveles de gobierno.S/WPDR/M/8
Página 6
9. Disposiciones relativas a observaciones previas:
Varios Miembros manifestaron su oposición al establecimiento de cualquier disposición en
materia de observaciones previas alegando que eran innecesariamente gravosas, especialmente para
las entidades subnacionales. Algunas delegaciones sostuvieron que su propia legislación nacional no
autorizaba las disposiciones en materia de observaciones previas en el marco del proceso legislativo.
Un Miembro señaló que las disciplinas en materia de contabilidad tenían una cláusula del "máximo
empeño", lo cual podría repetirse. Otros Miembros dijeron que era necesaria la prudencia y que las
cuestiones en materia de definición y observaciones previas debían ser examinadas más
detenidamente.
10. Notificaciones relacionadas con las disposiciones relativas a observaciones previas:
Una delegación opinó que las notificaciones en los boletines oficiales debían constituir el
requisito mínimo, que también debían alentarse las notificaciones a través de Internet, pero que no era
necesario efectuar notificaciones a la OMC. Otras delegaciones, como se señala supra , se opusieron
a la creación de cualesquiera disposiciones relativas a observaciones previas.
11. Cumplimiento de las prescripciones existentes en materia de notificación:
Varias delegaciones afirmaron que no se daba cumplimiento a las prescripciones en materia
de notificación en virtud del artículo III del AGCS, y que era preciso reforzar dichas prescripciones.Otras delegaciones manifestaron una opinión contraria, alegando que los Miembros ya tenían
dificultades para cumplir las prescripciones existentes. A una delegación le parecía advertir una cierta
confusión en los Miembros por lo que se refiere a las diferencias entre los criterios de transparencia
del artículo VI y los del artículo III.
Nota: Las observaciones sobre el punto 12 (Carga administrativa) y el punto 13 (Niveles de
transparencia adecuados) de la lista recapitulativa se formularon en el contexto de la discusión de los
otros puntos. No se hicieron comentarios por separado.
__________
| 2,828 | 18,666 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_IP_N_1PANC1.PDF&Open=True.pdf
|
S_IP_N_1PANC1.PDF&Open=True
|
WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION
ORGANISATION MONDIALE DU COMMERCE
ORGANIZACION MUNDIAL DEL COMERCIO
Council for Trade-Related Aspects
of Intellectual Property Rights IPIN/IIP AN/C/I
3 June 1998
(98-2218)
Original: Spanish/
espagnol/
espafiol
MAIN DEDICATED INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAWS AND REGULATIONS
NOTIFIED UNDER ARTICLE 63.2 OF THE AGREEMENT
Panama
The present document reproduces! Law No. 15 of 1994 concerning Copyright and Related
Rights (Official Gazette No. 22.907), as notified by Panama under Article 63.2 of the Agreement (see
document IPINIlIPANIl, which will be distributed in due course).
The delegation of Panama has notified Law No 35 of1996 concerning Industrial Property as
also being relevant to the protection of Copyright and Related Rights (see document IPINIlIP ANIIIl).
Conseil des aspects des droits de propriete
intellectuelle qui touchent au commerce
PRINCIP ALES LOIS ET REGLEMENTATIONS CONSACREES A
LA PROPRIETE INTELLECTUELLE NOTIFIEES AU TITRE
DE L'ARTICLE 63:2 DE L'ACCORD
Panama
Le present document contient le texte! de la Loi nO 15 de 1994 sur le droit d'auteur et les
droits connexes (Journal officiel nO 22.907), notifiee par le Panama au titre de l'article 63:2 de
l'Accord (voir le document IPIN/1/PANIl, lequel sera distribue en temps opportun).
La delegation du Panama a notifie la Loi nO 35 de 1996 sur la propriete industrielle comme
etant aussi pertinente pour la protection du droit d'auteur et des droits connexes (voir le document
IPINIlIP ANIIIl).
Consejo de los Aspectos de los Derechos de Propiedad
Intelectual relacionados con el Comercio
PRINCIPALES LEYES Y REGLAMENTOS DEDICADOS A LA
PROPIEDAD INTELECTUAL NOTIFICADOS EN VIRTUD
DEL pARRAFO 2 DEL ARTICULO 63 DEL ACUERDO
Panama
En el presente documento se reproduce! la Ley N° 15 de 1994 sobre Derecho de Autor y
Derechos Conexos (Gaceta Oficial N° 22.907), notificada por Panama en virtud de 10 dispuesto en el
parrafo 2 del articulo 63 del Acuerdo (vease el documento IPIN/1/PANIl, el cual sera distribuido
oportunamente ).
La delegaci6n de Panama ha notificado la Ley N° 35 de 1996 sobre la Propiedad Industrial
como siendo tambien relevante para la protecci6n del Derecho de Autor y Derechos Conexos (vease
el documento IPINIlIPANIIlI).
I Spanish onlylEn espagnol seulementlEn espafiol solamente. IP/N/I/PAN/CIl
Page 2
------------.-------=:------------------------~----------~----------------~ . >.;~. :;".j ~ -', :,./;.::r~ "~" ;~': r:.,::"~;:: :;'). t.'r~~ W41'rr I:~ IAL
I ""-,.'; , , • : 1 ; l t'! . .'· '\ C·:, r )J V'~~ .~~i~ t'::l . .'
,. " .. '.,',. : ! ,/, '.:' .". . ...... ' ... __ .. '; ......... :. f i ; h·, ' ... ", .. \ ,-; ~ 1 '.' .. \ ,.. :;li...,
•• , j ••• • :.. ••. ) ..... J ':"",', .i.M. .... ..l.. 'i~:tJ' ,"'-1 L1 "<.~t ..
ORGl\NO DEL ESTADO
PANAMA, R. DF. P., MIERCOlES 10 DE AGOSTO DE 1994 Ni 22.598 , . " ~·1.,..:,,:
.......
/",., CONTENIDO
>-l J\SAM8LEA Lg.GISLATIVA /<:/ ,.:~"'.:')"
;S LEYNo.15 .. '; 1." ,;
(j, (De 8 de egoslo de 1994) c. '\ t~.: :;'~;
~t.i. C£'f~ <;)~ "pon LA CUAL SE APRUEBA LA LEY SOORE EL oeRECHO De AUTOR Y DERECHOS COHEXOS ·C"·. ,
,;
........ - Y SE DICTAH OTRAS DlSPOSICIOIIES". \.' '~: />
"" : .1,. ;.' ;' .\.:.,:.
AVISOS Y EDICTOS
ASAMBlEA LEGISLA TIVA
LEY No. 15
(De 8 de egosto de 1994)
11 Por la cual se aprueba la Ley sobre e1 Derecho de Autor y Derechos
Conexos y se dictan otras disposiciones".
L,A ASl\.MBLEA ·LEGISLJ\TIVJ\
DECRETA:
TITULO I
Disp08iciones Genera.les
Articulo 1. Las disposiciones de la presente Ley se 'inspirEtn en el
bienestar social y el interes publico, y protegen 108 df:!reclio8 de
108 autores sobre SllS obr"Cls literarias, didclcticas , cientiEicClR 0
artisticas, cualquierl sea su genero, forma de expresi6n, merito 0
destino.
Los derechos reconocidos son independientes de la pl'opiedad
del objeto material en el cual este incorporada Iq obra y no est~n
suj etos al cump1imiellto dp. 11 ingullrl fOX'mal idad. Los tJenef 1c108 de
10s derechos que emanan de la presente Ley requerirall prueba de la
titularidad.
Quedan tambien proteg idos 108 derechos conexos a que se
refiere 'la present-e. Ley. Toda acci6n que tienda Cl reclamar 109
beneficio9 del derecho de autor telldra:eEectos hacla p.l futur.o.
Art!r:ulo 2. Para 109 efect09 de esta Ley, las expresiones que
siguen tendran el siguiente significado:
~. Autor: Persona natural que realiza la creacion l11telectual. IPINIl/PANICI 1
Page 3
Gaceta oncl .. J, mlcrcoles lOde agoslo de 1994
~ PI (['" r~'1T' R\. O~lfCI n. lJ G \~j h "'~(:..v jt £)i. 1[' 11 .r»...tl..J NI 22.598
.. --.;;
~ .. {~"/ Oi?QANO v"i~L ESTADO
'Jfc-r:,\ ·.~f
=.·.,=rt~llclnda por cl Decreto de Gablnetc Nil lOde 11 de noviembre de 1903
RSYNALDO GUTIERREZ VALDES MARGARITA CEDENO B.
DIRECTOR SUB DIREC TORA
OFICINA
AV:1nldo Norto (Eloy Alfaro) y Colle 30. Casa No. 3-12,
Edlflclo Cas3 Amarlllll, San Fellpe Cludad do Panama,
Talorono 28-0G31, Apartado Postal 2109
Pa~Bma ,Ropubllca de ~anamfl Dlroccl6n Gonorlll de Ingro80s
IMPORTE DE LAS SUSCRIPCIONES
Mlnlmo 6 Mesos en la RepubliCa: B/.18.00
Un ano en la Republica B/.36.00
En 01 extorlor 6 meseB 8/.18.00, mss porle Boroo
Un a"'o en elextorlor, 8/.36.00, mas porte el/reo LEYES AVISOS, EOICTOS Y OTRAS
PIJOUCACIONES
NUMERO SUELTO: 0/.1.50 rodo pago adelanlado
2. Autoridad competente: Es la Direcci6n General de Der-echo d<:!
Autor, a menos que la Ley indique expr-esamente otr-il cosu.
3. Artista, illU~rprete 0 ej ecutant.p.: Persolla que repr-esente,
cante, lea, t"8cit'?, illl:<:!rprel"~ 0 I?jecute ell cU(11quiet" f01"I1\(1
una obra.
4. Contllnicacioll [Hlulic:.,: J\cto ll1edi(1lll:~ el c:ual la our'(1 se POIlE'
al fllc<ll1ce tiel Vliblico, por c\1i11q\1iet' IIlP-dio 0 procedillliento,
segun 10 establece la presente Ley, que no callsista en la
distribuci6n de ej emplares. Todo el proceso necesario, y
conducente para que la obra se ponga al alcance del publico
constituye comunicaci6n.
5. Copia: Todo ejemplar de la obra, contenido en cualquier tipo
6.
7 de soporte material como resultado de un acto de reproducci6n.
Derechohabiente: Persona natural 0 jurldica a quien se
transmiten derechos reconocidos en J,a presente Ley.
Diatribuci6n al publico: Ea la puesta a disposici6n del
publico del original 0 copia de la obra mediante su vellta,
alquiler, pr~stamo 0 cualquier otra forma.
8. Divulgacion: Baeer accesible la obr-a al ptlblico por cualqllier-
medic 0 procedimiento.
9. Editor: Personil natural 0 j\lrl.dica (1\18 nleUinlll"I? cont rala C:OIl
el autor 0 su uerechohabiellte, se obltga a asecJttr'ar 1 a
pulJlicaci6tl y uilU!:;li()tl d8 in ol)ra [Jor flU [Jropia c;uellta. IP/N/1/PAN/C/1
Page tl
O~c7ta Oftclfll. mJ~rcole5 lOde agosto de 1994 3
Difusi6n a distancia de sOllidos 0 de ill1r\genes y
l'ecepciull del publico.
fo1clur: Son 1as pr~ducciones de e1ementos
caracter.i:aticoa del patrimonio cultural tradicional,
Crt!ildilt:l UII loll ll'l'l'il c>I:io II.lcic)l)al pot" auture!:J uo cUllocido!::l ()
que 110 se identifiquell, que se pres,umen naciollales 0 de sus
comunidades etnicas, y se transm'it;:en de generncioll en
. generaci6n y reflejan las expectativas artisticas 0 literarias
tradicionales de una ~nnrunidad.
12. Fijaci6n: IncorporClciull de sign08, sonidos 0 imagelles sobre
--Ulla base material que permita su percepci6n, reproducci6n' 0
comunicaci611.
13. Fonograma: Ea toda fijaci6n exclusivamente de los sonidos de
una representaci6n ej ecuci6n, 0 de otros sonidos. Las
grabaciones gramofonicas y magnetofonicas SOil copias de
fonogramas.
14. Obra: Creaci6n intelectual original, de naturaleza arti.stica,
cienti.fica 0 literaria, susceptible de ser divulgada 0 repro-
ducida en cualquier forma.
15. Obra a1l6nima: Es la obra en la que no se menciona la
identidad del autor, por su propia vo1untad.
16. Obra audiovisual,: Ea toda creacion expreaada mediante una
serie de imagenes asociadas, con 0 sin sonorizaci6n
incorporada, destinada 'esencialmente a ser mostrada a traves
de aparatos de proyecci6n 0 cualquier otro media de
comunicaci6n de la imagen y del sonido, independientemente de
I
las caracteristicas del soporte material que la contiene.
17. Obra de arte aplicado: Es la creacioll artl.stica cnn fllncio
nes utilitarias 0 que esta incorporada en un articulo util, ya
ae trate de una obra de artesani:a 0 producida ell .escala
industrial. IPINI 1 IPAN/CI 1
Page 5
Gaccta Oflclal. mlercoles lOde agoslo de 1994
\ '. ....
ra individllnl: N'22.59a
19. Obra inedita: Es la qUE;! no ha sido divulgadn. r.OIl, F.!l
cOl1sentimiento del autor 0 lOllS derechohabielltes.
20. Obra en colabor.:1cioll: Es 1.:1 obra creacJn en [ormet COlljUIll:CI P.
interdependiente por dos (2) 0 mil.S persol~.:ts naturales.
21. Obra colectiva: Es la obra creCldCl por vc'l.rios autores, bfljo l~
responsabilidad de ulla (1) persona na.tural 0 juridica que la
caracter indin~cto de laf;l cOlltrlbuclones, Be fusiOIl<lll ell la
totalidad de la obra, de modo que resulta illlposible iclentiEi
car los diversos aportes de, 105 alltorea, par,ti,cipant".:'!s. que
intervienen en SH creCl.cion.
sill J)erJuicio de 108 d".:'!l'ec:hos deJ ,IlII'CH' de lil ()bn1. ~?t'itJil1i1d<\
y de la respectiva autorizncioll, cUyn origi.l1Rlidnd- ~Rdi(::a en
la ad~ptaci6n 0 transEormacion de la obra preexistente, 0 en
108 e1ementos creativos de su traduccion a un idioma distinto.
23. Obra briginaria: Es la obra' primigenlainent'e creada.
24. Obra plascica d'de belIas artes: Es aquella cuya Eina1idad
apela al sentidd est~tico de la persona que la contempla.
25. Obra radiofonica: E's la obra creada especialmente para su
transmisi6n por radio 0 television,
26. Obia seud6nima: Es aquiHla en q\le el aut~r titiilzt'\ Ull
seud6nimo que no 10' ident i [1 Cft. No Re r.nnR i r1~rc'l. nbt'n
seudoninia' aque'll'a en que el' 110mbre enipieado no arroja dudas
ace rea de la identidad c'ivil dei 'autor.
27. Organismo de radlodifusion: Ente de radio 0 television que
transmite programas al publico.
28.' pioduc tor: Persona natural 0 jur.luica quI"! tiP.ll'O? lr.t
iniciati va, la coordillacion y la responeabil idn,d ell la IPINIl/PANICI 1
Page 6
..--~~:IIt~-:':'~~'-_ •• ""'_A._ .... -...r."'-_-------------- _______ -i>:;"""pi/-~It'>
producci6n de la obra, par ejempla, de la obra
del programa d~ ordenador.
29. Productor de fonograrnas: Es la persona natural 0
hajo cuya iniclativa, responsabilidad y coardinaci6ni se fijan
por primer-a vez 10s sonidos de una ejecuci61l U otroa sOllidos.
30. ,Programa de ardenador: Conjurito de instruccion~s expresadas
m~diante palabras, c6cligos, pI(~u,le8 0 cualquier otra forma que,
al sar incorporadoB ~n UIl dispositivo de lect'ura automRtizada,
310 es capa'z de hacer qu<:! un orden'ador, un aparato electronico 0
similar capaz de elaborar informacio~es, ejecute determinada
tarea u obtenga determinada resultado.
Publicaci6n: Ea la producci611, de ejemp~ares puestas al al<;:qn-
ce del publ ico con el cOllsentimient9 del ,tit~lar del respecti
,yo c.lerechb, siempt'e que la dispollibili.,dac.l de' 'tales eJelllpla'res,
permita satisfacer las llecesidades razonables del publico,
tellienuo ell cuenta la naturaleza'de la'obra.
32. Repraduccion: Fitaci6n de la oqra :e11 un medio ql~e permita su'
comunicaci6n para' la obtenci6n de cop~as cie t·oda 0' parte de
ella.
33. Reproducci6n reprografica: Realizac~qn cie capias. en' facsfmilj
de ej emplares originales 0 copias de una obra por medios
distintos de la impresi6n, Comd la. foto~rafi~.
34. Titularidad: Ea la calidad' <';lel titular, de '-108' derecho8
reconocidos por la presehte Lay.
35. Titularidad originaria: La que surge par el acto de la'
·creacf6n de una obra.
36. Titularidad derivada: La que surge par ~{rcunstancias,
distintas al acto de la creacion, sea por mandCl.to 0, presuncion
legal, sea par cesi6n mediante,acta eritre vivos 0 par trftnsmi
s16n mortis causa.
37. Usos 11citos: Son 10s que no it\terf:!.eren cbn la explotaci6n
normal de las obras' 11i causan p~rjuicio a 109 intereses IP/N/1/PAN/C/1
Page 7
7<i-c\e~
~~---==-=-,. .• ~?:~~~~::~I~I'ColetJ 1 0 de ng~to de 1994 N' 22 • .59,?-';-~~~
-legitimoo del autOl:, segun 10 dispueato ell el 'l'itul0 V. f(.-~r ~~;;",?~~ ~~ ~,
30. US? personal: Ea la 'reproducci6n u otraforma d~ utilit.nc\6t~~ "~ ~f
~ "''et ~\~" de la obra d~ otra persona en un solo ejemplar, exclu8ivamen.~1.~~/
te para el uso individual, en casos como 1n inve8tigacion y e1
eaparcilllietlto persollal.
39. Videogramu: E8 la fijacion audiovisual incorporada ell cClse·
tes, discos u otros soportes materi«les.
TiTULO 11
Articulo 3. El autor es el titular originario de los derechos
morales y patrimoniales sobre la obru, reconocidos por la presente
Ley.
Se presume autor, salvo prueba ell cOlltrario, « quien aparezca
como tal en la obra, rnediallte S,U Ilombre, firma 0 signa que 10
iden t if ique.
Cuando la obra se divulgue en forma anonlrna 0 con seud6nimo,
e1 ejercicio de loa derechos correspondera a la persona natural 0
juridica que la divulgue con el consentimiento del autor, mientras
este no revele su identidad.
Articulo 4. 'Loa coautorea de una obra creada en colaboracion seran
conjuntamente los titulares originarios de los derechos morales y
patrimoniales sobre la obra.
Sin embargo, cuando la participacion de cada coautor pertell'S!z
ca a un genero distinto, cada uno de ellos podra, B~lvo pact? ell
contrario, explotar separadamente su contribucion personal, siempre
que no, perjudique la explotacion de la obra en colaboraci6n.
Articulo 5. En la obra colectiva se presume, salvo, pacto en
contrario, que los autores han cedido, en forma ilimitada y exclu-
siva, la titularidad de los derechos patrimoniales a la persona
natural 0 jur5:dica que la publique con flU propio nombre, qllten
igualmente queda fncultada p.:lra ejercer 10s,deret:hos morales sabre
1:a obra. IPINIl/PANICI 1
Page 8
culo 6. O<l-ceta OOclaL m~rcole~ 10 de agosto de 1994
En 1aa ohras creadaF.l para una persona Ilr'lturnl 0
cumplimiento de un contrato de trabajo 0 en ejercicio
derechos morales Y [Jiltrimoniales; pero se presunie, ea1vo pacto en
contrario. que 109 uerAchoR patrimonia1es 80bre la obra han Bide
cedidos a1 emplea.dor 0 ill ellte, ue Derecho Publico" segun sea el
caso, en la medicla Ilecesaria Begun 8US actividadea habituales en la
epoca de creaci6n de la obra, 10 que implica, ~gualm~nte, la
autorizaci6n para divulgar la obra y ejercer los derechos morales
en cuanto sea necesario p<:'1r<l la explotaciol1 de la obra.
TfTuLO III
Objeto
Articulo 7. El objeto del Derecho de Autor es la obra como
resultado de la creaci6n intelectual. Se consideran comprendidas
entre las obras protegidas por la ley, especialmente las
sjguientes: las obras expresadas por escrito, in6luidos los
programas de ordenador, las conferencias, alocuciones, sermones y
(
otras obras consistentes en palabras expresadas oralmente; las
composiciones musicales, con 0 sin letra, las obras dramaticaa y
dramatico-musicales, las obrao coreograficas, pantom1micas, las
obras audioviauales, cua~quiera sea e1 soporte material 0
procedimiento empleado; las obraa fotograficas y las expreaadas por
procedimiento analogo a la Eotografia: las obrae d~ bellas art~s~
incluidas las pinturas, 'dibujOB, esculturae, grabados y litogr.n
f!as; laB obras de arquitectura, las obras de arte aplicado, las
ilustraciones, mapas, pIanos, bosquejos y obras relativas a la
geografia, la topografia, la arquitectura 0 las ciencias; y, en
fin, toda producci6n literaria, art1stica, didactica 0 cientifica
susceptible de ser divulgada 0 publicada por cualquier medio 0
procedimiento. ~ ,...... -", .;: ':0.03 i,) ".'.
L·~t:..·---· <> .. "~, IP/NI 1 IPAN/CI 1
Page 9
IJ";~ , 4 ~ '\
ORCCta. Oridd. ml~coles lOde agosto de 190.... rj.1f.A.~ .5~: ~. \
··.~~::;::10 ·8 ••• '" Sill perjuido de loa derechaa. aabre l:e~
originaria, 80~ tambH;n objeto de protecci6n las traducci ~ A ~
adaptaciones, tiansformationea 0 arregloa de obras de exprealones
dol folc16rl asf como tambien las' antologfas 0 compilaciones de
obras diversas y las' bnses de datos que, por la selecci611 0
disposici6n de las materias, constituyen creaciones personales.
Articulo 9.' La proteccion recollocida en la pL'esente Ley no
alcanzar4 'a' 108 texto~, de las' leyes, dectetos, reglamentos
ofici'aies, tratados publicos, decisiones j~diciales y demas aetos
oficia:tes; n1 alas expre'sio'lles genericas del' Eolclor, noticias del
dia; 'ni a 108 simp1es hechos y datos.
TfTULO IV
:Disposiciones Especia1es para ciertas Obras
CAPiTULO I
bbras Audiovisuales
Articulo 10. Salvo prueba en contrario, se presum~n coautores de
la'obra'audiovisual, hecha en colaboraci6n:
1. ~i d{rectbr 0 realizador.
2.' El, a'utor dei argumento.
" • '\ • • • •• f 3. El autor de la adaptaci6n.
4. in autor d~'l gU'i6ri Y di41ogos.
5. El' autor'd~ 'la ~us:lca especialmente compuesta para 1" obrl1.
, . 6: El autor!de los dlbujo8, si se tratare de disenos animadoa.
Cuando la obr~ audiovisual ha sido tomada de llnn oura
preexistente" ~09avla protegida, el autor de la obra orig1 nariC\
queda eq~iparado a los ,autore~ de la obra nueva. '
'Articulo 11. Salvc,J p<lcto, ell cOJltrC1.rio, entre los coa\ltores, el
director .. 0," realizador t iene el" ej erd.cio de lOB derechos morales
sobre la' obra 'alldiQvisual ;'! ein"petjuicio de: los' que correspondal1 'a
los:deroas coau'tores en reiaci6i1 con SUS respec-tivas contribuciones, .
. ni' de los'" que' 'pueda, ej ercet 'el' productbr' de coriforillidad -COil la
presente Ley~ IP/N/l/PAN/C/!
Page 10
Gaceta Or1dal. mlcn:olcs lOde ngosto de 1994 9
12. ,; ,Si ,uno de; IQ?! CO.3:lJ,t,ores s~ ~liega ,a termi,nar su . ,
aboraci6n, 0 se encllelltra il!lpedic..lo de l\acerl.o pOl;", fuerza mayor,
pc;>dra.,oponerse, ,a ,que, se uti,lice la parte 'ya reRlizchJo, de 8U
contribucion con ~l fill ue t~rmillar la obrR, Rill que ello itnpida
que con r~specto de esta colaboraci6n tenga la calidad, de autor y
goce ~e ,los de~~cl?<?s q~e 0e ~lla se derivell.
,~al,:,~. pac~,o ,e,n contrario, c'ada u,no de l<?s coau~or~~ puede
disponer libremente de . . . ',. . '., .... la parte. d~ la obra qu~ con8t~'tuye su '. " .
colaboraci6n personal, para explota~la en ~n ,g6qero diferente y . " . . . . ...' '.. ~., . . '.. I.."
dentr9. de 10s 1:lmir.es esta,blE:'lcido,,!, en, el ultimo p'ar:rClfo del
Articulo 4.
Articulo 13. Se considerar,a ~e~minada la obra audiovisual cuando
haya sido' establecida la versi6n definitiva. copia matriz u
• '. • , ~ I, • . ' ...
original, de acuerdo con 10 pRctado entre el dir~cror y el
productor.
Articulo 14. Sin perjuicio de 10 dispu~sto en el Articulo 105, se .....
presume, ~~iv~~prueba en contrario, que es productor de la obra
.. . .. . , '" . ~.;, . .
audiovisual la persona 'natural 0 jur~dica que aparezsa indicada
como tal en la obra. ,
Articulo 15. Salvo' 'fJBCtO ell cOllthirlo'. el c6titrato, ellt6~ los
. . .... . :..... ~ . . ..;. .. .:. .' ~ :: . autores de la obra audiovisual y el pr09uctor fmplica la cesi6n
ilimitada y exclusiva (l' "'favb~ :d~:: ~~te,' de "'los derechos
'pattim6riial~s ... :.. '. ,~. '\ • I. ... . reconoc1dos en la presente Ley, asS. como la
autoiizati6n par'a"de~idir '~~~rca cie su di~ulga'ci6n.
sill petjuicici cie 10s derechos" 'de ios autores. e1 proouctor
'poede; salvo 'es'tipulaci6il 'en co'ntrario,' ~jer~er 'en: '~o'mb~e 'propio
los d~rech()s mornles s()hr~ la' ol:JrCl . audiovistla1', . en la medlda ell qu~
e110'sea nec€sari6 : para su explotaci.oll;
Articulo 16. _ .J...as..,dispo!3i~ione8 ,conten.idaa,~en, e~ preeente ~capitulo
seran de apl,icaci6n en IQ, p~:q~ne!1te, a :,laa ,ob,r~s, radi6f6nica,s.
C'APITULO II
Programas de Ordenador
,Articulo 17. Sin pe'rj'uicici cie' 10 diapueetd' en el' Art'!culO 107, Be
presume, salvo prueba en contrario, que ea productor' d~l: programa IPINIl/PANICI 1
Page 11
~\:".i la llK'1.I\C ~:~~ acofJtumbrndn.
SuI vo pacto en contrario, el contrato entre 108
,,-utorolJ del programa de ordenador y el productor implica 1a cesi6n
limitnda y excluaiva, a favor de este, de loa derechos
p:ltrimonialeo reconocido8 en la presente Ley. aa! como la
autorizaci6n para decidir sobre la divulgaci6n y p~ra ejerr.er 108
dsrccho'a morulee sobre la obra, ell la medida que e110 sea Ileceenrio
para la explotnci6n de la obra'.
CJ\PfTULO III
Obras.de Arquitectura
ArtIculo 19. El autor de la obra de dieeflo de arquitectura 0
diaef1ador no puede oponeroe it las modificacioneo que ee hicieren
neceaaria£J durante, la constiucci6n de la obra 0 con p08terioridad,
pero' el autor de la obra de arquitectura debe eer conaultado 9cibre
laD :modificacfones que' ae' hicieren nec€sarios durante la
cohetru'cci6n 0' con, poaterioridad a ella y tendr~ preferencia para
el eatudio y r~alizaci6n de eata.
• En cualquler caeo,' si las modificacionea ee realizaren sin el
conoentimiento del dieeflador, eate podra repudiar la paternidad de
la obra modificada y qued~ra vedado el propietario, 'para invocar en
10 futuro el nombre del autor del proyecto original, a1,Il perjuicio
de la aplicaci6n'de laa sailcionea eatablecidas en la presente Ley:
CAPfTULO IV
Obraa Plaaticaa
Articulo ~O. Salvo pacto en concrario, el contrato de enajenaci6n
del objeto material que contiene una obra de bellaa artes, confiere
al adquirente el derecho de expener publicamente la obra, sea a
titulo' gratuito u oneroeo.
Articulo 21. En caso de reventa de obraa plasticae, en eubaeta
publica 0 por intermedio de un negociante profeeional de obrae de
arte, el autor y eue,herederoB 0 legatarioa,'por el ticmpo a que se IP/N/l/PAN/C/1
Page 12
Gaceta Onclal. mlcrcofcs lOde agosto de 1994 11
el J\rticu10 4?, gOUl del derec:llo i n<1l ienalJle e
renullciable de percibir tiel ve\ldedor un minimo del dos por ciento
%} del precio'de reventa.
El derecho' de participaci6n consagrado en e1 presente
a~ticulo, ser4 recaudado y distribuido por l~ entidad de gesti6n
, colectiva.
Articulo 22. El.. retr~to 0 busto .. de una persona no podra. ser puesto
en €:!l comercio sin el cpnsent~mi.ento d~ la persona: misrna, y a 8U
muerte, de sus cierechohClbientes. . 8i 11 :· .. er \rgo,· 8erc'i. . I ibr~·· 1.'\
/
publicac16n del retrClto o· busto· ·cuar)do se relacione con fines
cientificos 0 culturales, en. general, 0 cuando se relacione con
hechos . 0' cicontecimieni:os publicos·o de :'interes pdhlico:
CJ\PITULO·V
,·Articulos· Periodi-sti'c6s
J!.~t1<;u.lo .. 23. ". Sa·lvo pacto. en· contrarloj la cesi6u' de:.artlcul08 para
p~ri6d.i.cosl" revistas,-u"otros' medios -cie comunicaci6w social'; s6lo
confiere ai·editor 0 propieta~io tie la publicaci6n el .d~recho de
insertarlo por una (1) vez, quedando a· salvo ·los.·demas derechos
patrimoniales del cedente. . . . - . Si el articulo cedido debe aparecer con la firma del
aut~r o' su ··8euci'6n:'im·0~··· el' ~ee{onario no pued~' modificarlo. si ~l
. . .... . . '. . . . . ~ . .
edlto'~ '0· propi~tario' ·{j·el medio de' comu~icaci6n 10 modifica sin el
'.
consent~mie~to d~i:~~~~nte, 'e~~ p~ede pedir 1~ i~8~rci6n in:tegr~
, '
y' fiei 'del. a:rtlculo cedido,' sl.~ p~duicio del derecho a r"eclama~
indemnizaci6n.
Cuando ei .3.rticulo cedido deba aparecer sin la firma del
al,lt.or •. el, -ed:.: or ,0 prcpietario· del medio ·'de. comLlnic-'lci6n ,pu<;?'de
hacerle mqdificaciorlea 0 cambios de' forma, ··sin e1 'conaentimient'o
del cedente.
Articulo 25. Lo estab1ecido en e1 presente capitulo'se aplicara,
~n forma analoga, a 10s',dibuj09,. chistes, graficos, fotqgraHas y.
dema,.s o?ras sus~eptible.s de ser· publi.cadas en peri6dicos, revista!:l
u otroa med~o~ de,comunicaci6n social. 12 Gaceta aOdal. ntlcrcolcs IOW: agosto
TITULO V
Contenido
Cl\PITULO I IP/N/llP AN/C/l
Page 13
Disposiciones Generales
Articulo 26. El autor de una obra tieoe, p~r e~ solo hecho de la
creaci6n, la titularidad originaria del derecho sobre la obra, que
comprende a au vez, 10s derechos de orden moral y patrimonial
determinados en la presente Ley.
Los derechos indicados son independientes de la propiedad,del
soporte material que contielle la obra, de manera que la enajenaci6n
de dicho soporte no implica ninguna cesi6n de derechos eri favor del
adquirente, salvo disposici6n expresa de la Ley.
Artl.culo 27. El' derecho de autor sobre las traducciooes y demas
ob'ras derivadas, puede existir aun cuando las obras originarias 110
esten ya protegidas, pero no entrafla niogun derecho exclusivo sobre
dichas creaciones originales, de manera que sl autor de la obra
derivada no puede oponerse a que otros traduzcan, adopten
modifiquen 0 compendien las nuevas obras, siempre que sean trabajos
originales distintos del suyo.
Articulo 28. No puede emp1earse sin e1 consentimiento del autor el
titulo de una obra que individual ice efectivamente a esta, para
identificar otra obra del mismo'genero, cualldo exista peligro de
confusi6n entre ambas.
CAPITULO II
Derechos Morales
Artl.culo 29. Los derechos morales reconocidos por la presente Ley.
son inalienables, inernbargables, irrenunciables e imprescript ibles.
Con la muerte del autor, los derechos morales a que se
refieren 10s Artl.culos 31, 32, 33, 34 Y concordantes, seran
ejercidos por sus herederos durante el tiempo a que se refiere el
Articuio 42, salvo disposici6n testamentaria en contrario.
Los derechos murales sobre las obras·colectivas, las creadas IPINIl/PANICI 1
Page 14
Gacct;) Oflclal, mlcrcolcs 10 dc agosto dc 1991j. 13 -------,
de trabajo 0 en ejercicio de una funcian publicet, lets "~~)~ ~~ <t: \, . ~.f;i audiovisLlales y 10s progretIl\C\s de 7?------- <) onlenador, podran ser ejercidos,
:",l,.Ij CE1' I':~'
'. ::"=-,,,0, segun lc;>s CuSOS, por quieIl Ius publ ique COIl Sll nom]) re , por e1
elllpleauor 0 por e1 elite ptJul ieo, 0 [>or t~ 1 l'~Sp~ct i vo productor, en
la medida indicetda en los l\J:ticulos 5, G Y 18 de la presente Ley.
Articulo )0. CorrespoIldel1 al autor los si,]uient8s derechos
moret1es:
1. El derecho de d i vu It.F1C i(JI1_
,., El derecho Lie pateLlllu':lU. ~ ..
3. El derecho de illte~lridF.ld _
4. El derecho de acc<::so.
5. El derecho de reVOCtlr Iv. ceslon 0 de retiro de la obrn del
comercio.
Artlculo 31. Corresponde exclusivamente a1 autor la facultad de
resolver sobre la divulgaci6n total 0 parcial de la obra y, en su
caso, el modo de hacer dicha divulgaci6n.
Nadie puede dar a conocer, sin el consentimiento de su autor,
el contenido esencial de la obra antes de que el 10 haya hecho 0 la
obra se haya divulgado.
Artlculo 32. El aut6r tiene el derecho de ser reconocido como tal,
determinando que la obra lleve las indicaciorles correspondientes,
y de resolver si la divulgaci6n ha de hacerse con su Ilombre, con
seud6nimo 0 8igno, 0 en forma an6nima.
Artlculo 33. El autor tiene el derecho de prohibir al adquirente
del objeto material de la obra toda deformaci6n, modificaci6l1 0
alteraci611 de la misma que pueda poner en peligro el decoro de la
obra 0 su reputacioll COIl\O aut~r.
Artlculo 34. El autor puede exigir al prci ~tario del ejemplar
unico de la obra e1 acceso a este, en la forma que mejor convenga
at 108 intereses de ambos, con el objeto de ejercer sus demas
derecho8 morales 0 patrimoniales reconocidos en la presente Ley.
Articulo ~5. El autor, aun despues de la divulgacion de la obra,
tiene frente al cesionario de sus derechos, e1 derecho de revocar IP/N/l/PAN/C/!
Page !5
de 199'6- Nil 22.598
r~tiro de la obra dl?l c:omercioj p~ro 110 plIed'O!
sin previn imlel1111i ~.,c:iOJl ele los c1<1iim:l y p~r-
juicios que con ello le cause.
Cl\P ITULO TT I
Derechos Patrimoniales
Articulo 36. El autor goza tambien del derecho exclusivo de
exp10tar la obra en cua1quier forma y beneEiciarse d~ ella, salvo
en los casos de ~xcepcion previstos expresamr:!ntl? en la presente
Ley.
El derecho patrimonial no es embargable, pero si lOB Erlltos
derivados de la explotacion, que se considerarAn ingrasoB para los
efectos de 108 privilegi08 consagrados en las leyes.
El derecho patrimonia1 comprende, especialmente, el dl? modi-
ficaci6n, comunicaci6n publica, reprodllccion y distribucion y cad a
uno de ellos, asi como sus respectivas modalidades, son .illd~p~n·
dientes entre si.
Articulo 37. El aut~r tiene el derecho exclusivo de realizar 0
autorizar las traducciones, asi como las adaptaciones, arreglos y
otras transformaciones de su obra.
Articulo 38. Son. actos de comunicacion publica, especialmente los
siguientes:
1. Las representaciones escenicas, recitaciones, disertaciones y
ejecuciones publicas de las obras dramaticas, dramatico-
musicales, literari~s y musicales mediante cualquier forma 0
procedi)l1iento.
2. La proyecci6n 0 exhibicion publica de las obras audiovisuales.
3. La emisi6n de una obra por radiodifusion 0 por cualquier medio
que sirva para la difusion inalambrica de signos, sonidos 0
imagene8.
4. La transmisi6n de cualquier obra a1 p6blico por hiln, cable,
fibra 6ptica u otro procedimiento analogo.
5. La retransmisi6n por cualquiera de 108 medios citados en 108 IP/N/lIPANIC/1
Page 16
-,....
:, :>{;'_'F~-,i\;;f)::.(!' l~' ~;..-______ G_;:_C_C_la_O_n_c_I_"..;I._l_n_le_r_C_O_I_c_S_l_O_d_e_a_g~o_s_tO_d_c_l_9_9_4 __ ,-___ -_1_5_
• 1'& ........ -
:;";'\:/ -~l]" <$' \ n0meros anteriores y por una entidad emisora distinta de la de
I $ ~\~~ ~I origen de la obra radiodifundida 0 televisada.
~4 ~. ~/j '\' '; ."' ... -~.f) La captaci6n, en lugar accesible al publico,
~" f! .. : r:n'~' .// mediante
.' ;-:;., cualquier procedimiento id6neo, de la obra radiodiEundida por
radio 0 televisi6n.
7. La presentacion y exposicion publicas de obras de arte 0 de
sus reproducciones.
8. El acceso publico a bases de datos de ordenador por medio de
telecomunicaci6n, cuando estas se incorporen 0 constituyan
obras protegidaB.
9. La difusion, por cualquier procedimiento conocido 0 pcir
conocerse, de los signoB, las palabras, los sonidos 0 las
imagenes.
Articulo 39. La reproduccion compren.de todo acto dirigido a la
fijacion material de la obra por cualquier forma 0 procedimiento,
o la obtencion de copias de toda 0 parte de ella; entre otros
modos, por imprenta, dibujo, grabado, fotografia, !tIodelado 0
mediante procedimiento de las artes graficas y plastica~, asi como
por el registro mecanico, electrollico, fonog'rafico 0 audiovisual.
Articulo 40. La' distribucion comprende el derecho del autor de
autorizar 0 no autorizar la puesta a disposicion del publico de los
ejemplares de su obra, por medio de la venta U otra forma dp
transmision de la propiedad, alquiler 0 cualquier modalidad de usa
a titulo oneroso.
Sin embargo, cuando la comercializaci6n autorizada de los
ejemplares se real ice mediante venta, este derecho se extingue,
salvo 10 dispuesto en el Articulo 21; pero el titular de los
derechos patrimoniales conserva los de modificacion, comunicaci6n
publica y reproduccion, asi como el derecho de autorizar 0 no
autorizar el arrendamiento de 109 ejemplare9.
Articulo 41. Siempre que la Ley no disponga otra cosa en forma
expresa, es ilicita toda modificacion publica, reproduccion 0
distribuci6n total 0 parcial de la obra sin el consentimiento del
autor 0, en su caso, de sus derechohabientes. Gaccta Ot1c1al. m\crcoles lOde agosto de 1991~
TITl1W VI
J)lIt'aci61l y Limites
CJ\PITULO I
Du t'" cion IP/NI1 IPAN/C/l
Page 17
Articulo 42. El del:ec!\o patrimonial t!Ut'u In vidl1 q~l nlltnl:' y
cincuGl1ta. (50) uilus t.lP'SPlll~S del fC111"!c Lllli'=rlt,o d0l ~lIl or, y !"t;)
c6digo Civil.
En :J.a obra en colabot'i:\ci611~ e.l plf.1z0 de durC1cioll se cUllt.lrii
d~sd~ l~ mu~rt~ del ,Glt~~6 cOC1utoi.
Articulo 43.
duraci6n sera de cincuenta (50) ClOOS a pcHtir qel ,diD dr~ ~\1
divu1gaci6n, salyo que Cl.nt:,=s de cumpl ido dicho lapso et .:lLItor
revele su identidad, Ci180 ell que se Clplic(1.rt-l 10 displIt'?Sl'o nil I'll
articulo precedente.
Articulo 44'. En obras colectivas, progl'amas de ')rdel1.'1dol' '/ obri\s
audiovisuales, el derecho patr-imonial se extingue a 108 CinCUI?Ilt<\
(50) aoos de su primera flllblicacioll 0, f?Jl su d8[ecto, ;:\ l Ut'? SlI
tex;minaci6n. Esta limit<:tci6n no afecta el derecllo patrimonial de
cada uno de 108 coautores de la obra audiovisual respecto de fHl
contribuci6n persollal, SP.SJlIII 10 IJrevisto ell In ultim" parte dr~l'
Articulo 4.
Articulo 45. Los pltl::os estClblecidos ell el lJl.eSelltl~ C,'pitlllo SiP.
computaraIl desde -el primero de enero del (too 8i9\1i'~\lt'~ tll de la
muert;~ del autor ,0, en su caso, al. de lC1. divulgC1.ci611, pub'licaci6n
o terminaci6n de la o~ra.
Articulo 46. La extinci6n del derecho patrimonial determina la
entrada de la obra al dominio pUblico.
Las obras eel dominio publico pueden ser utilizadas por
cuaiquier interesado, siempre que se respete l~ pC1.ternidad del
autor y la integridad de la obra, en 108 t~rmino~ previ8tos en 108
Articulos 32 y 33. IP/N/l/PAN/C/1
Page 18 I.' £\'i .,. I'.··· '-:'''',1
fI <l'( lia~ Ni 22.593 Oaceta Oflclal. mlcrcoles lOde agosto de 19~4
------------------------------------~------~~~~~~~*--CAPITU~,O II ~'L1 \.(:; ,
"CETA \)~
Limites
Articulo 47. Son comuriicaciones If.citas, sin autorizaci6n del
autor ni pago de remuneraci6n:
1. Las realizadas en Ull circulo familiar, siempre que 110 exista
un interes lucrativo, directo 0 indirecto.
2. Las efectuada.s con 'f ine9 de utilidad general en el curso de
actos oficiales y ceremonias religiosas, siempre que e1
publico pueda asistir a ellas gratuitamente y ninguIlo de 108
participCllltes en la comutlicacion perciba una remuneraciotl
especlfica por su intervenci61l en el acto.
3. Las· verificadas COil fines exclusivamente dic1r.l.ct·ir.o~, en
establecimientos de enseiianza.; siempre que sean comunicaciones
sin fines lucrativos.
4. LaB que se efectuen par~ no vfdentes y otras personas
disctipacitadas; siempre que estCls puedan ~sistir a la
comunicaci6n en forma gratuita y niliguno de 10s participantes
reciba una retribuci6n especifica p.or su intervencion en er
aCto.
S. Las que se re.;d icell dentro de establecimientos de' cOlltercio
s619 para .. ' .fines d~mostrativ09 de la clientela, de equipos'
r~ceptore9, reproduc~ores U otros similares, 0 para la v~nta;
de 19S soportes sonoros 0 audiovisuales que contienen las'
obras.
6. Las realizadas como indispensables para llevar a 'cabo una
prueba judicial 0 administrativa.
Articulo 49. Respecto de las obras ya divulgadas licitamente, se
permite sin au.torizaci6n del autor ni reinuneraci6n:
1. La r~producci6n de una copia de la obra para el uso personal
y exclusivo del uSlIario, realizada por el illteresado COil sus
propios medios.
2. Las reproducciones fotomec4nicas para el exclusivo ~so
personal, como la fotocopia y e1 microfilme, siempre que se IP/N/l/PAN/C/I.
Page 19
. ~ ';;;~<l <)" ('~cct~!?~. m!~G'e5 10 de Pgosto de 1994 NI 22.598
~:; .. t&.-~j \ \imiten a' pequeiias partes de una ohra protegicia 0 a ohrrls
0:: -:~ ~)lgotadaa. Se equip'ara a la rt'lproduc:cion ilicitn tocia \ . ~y
~CE1'f'. ~y utilizaci6n de las piezas, reproducidas por cualquier medio 0
~;..: . .':--procedimiento para Ull use distinto del personal, efectui'\da en
concurrencia Cdn el derecho exclusivo del autor de explotar ~u
obra.
3. La reproduccion por medios reprograficos de art);culos,
extractos de obras breves licitamente publicadas, para la
enseilallza 0 la. realizaci6n de eXRl1leneS en instit:uciones
educativas, siempre que no haya fines de lucro' y en cuanto
jU9tifique e1 objetivo perseguido y con la condici6n de que
tal utilizacion se hag a conforme a los usos licitos.
4. La reproducci6n individual de Ulla obra por bibliotecas 0
archivos que no tengan fines de lucro,' cuando el ejemplar se
encuentre en su co1ecci6n permanellte, para preservar10 y
sustituirlo en caso de necesidad; 0 para sustitu~r, en la
cole~cj611 permi:lllel\t"p. dp. o\-rn bibliot"pca Cl ilrchivo, 1111 AjP.1I1plilt"
que se haya extraviado, destruido 0 illutilizad'o, sien'lpre que
no resulte posible adquirir tal ejemp~a.r en plazo y
condiciones razonab1es.
5. La reproducci6n de una obra para actuaciones judiciales 0
administrativas, si se justifica e1 fin que se persigue.
6. La reproducci6n de una obra de arte expuesta permanentemente
en 1as ca11es, plazas u otros lugares publicos, por medio de
un arte diverso a1 emp1eado en la e1aboracion del original.
Respecto de 10s edificios, esta facu1tad se limita a la
fachada exterior.
7. La reproducci6n de una sola copia del programa de ordenador,
exc1usivamente con fines de resguardo 0 seguridad.
8. La introducci6n del programa de ordenador en la memoria del
equipo, solo para uti1izaci6n del usuario.
Articulo 49. Es permitido realizar, sin autorizaci6n del autor n1
pago de remuneracion, cita.a de obras ll.citamente p\lblicadC\~, r.OIl la IPINIl/PANICI 1
Page ~O
Oaceta OfIclal. mlCrcoles lOde agosto de 1994
o~li9a~i6n de indicar el nombre del autor y la fuente y c
condic~6n de que se hagan conforme a 10s UROS
mcdida que se justifique el fin que se persiga.
Articulo 50. SOil 1 icitas tambien, sin autorizacion l1i
r~muneraci6n, siempre que se indique el nombre del aut~r y la
fuente:
1. La reproducci6n y qistribuci6n por la prellsa, 0 la transmisi6n
por eualquier medio, de artlculos de actua1idad sobre
cuestiones econ6micas, soeiales, artlsticas, pollticas 0
religiosas, publicados en medios de comunicaci6n social,
siempre que la reproduce ion 0 transmision no hayan sido
reservadas expresamente.
2. La difusi6n de informaeiones re1ativas a acolltecimi~ntos de
aetualidad, por medios sonoros 0 alldiovisuales, de imagenes 0
sonidos de las obras vistas u oldas en el curso de tales
aconteeimientos, en la medida justificaua para fines de la
informacion.
3. La difusi6n por la prensa 0 la transmision por cualquier
medio, cl titulo de inforrnaci6n de actualidad, de los dis
cursos, disertaciones, alocuciones, sermones y otras obras de
earacter similar pronuneiados en publico y de 108 di8cursos
pronunciados durante actuaciones judiciales, cuando se justi
fiquen los fines de informaci6n que se persigan, y sin
perjuicio del derecho que conservan 108 autorea de laa obras
difundidas para publiearlas individua1mente 0 en forma de
colecci6n •
. Articulo 51. 'Es licito que los organismos de radiodif~sion, sin
autorizacion del autor ni. pago de una remuneraci6n especial,
realicen grabaeiones efimeras, con sus propios equipos y para la
uti1izaci6n en sus propias emisiones de radiodifusi6n, de una obra
que tengan e1 derecho de radiodifundir. Sin embargo, e1 organismo
radioemisor debera destruir la grabaci6n en e1 plazq de se is (6)
meses, contados desde su ~ea1izaci6n, a menos que se haya convenido I ' 1P1N11 IPAN/CI 1
Page 21
i , J Gf'ceta OflcJal, ml~rco'cs I O,d? ~a05to de 1994 rtw 22.598
con e-f,'llUtor un plazo mayor. Empero la grabaci6n podra conservarse
.,~, ,.~;
I, '\\ "I' en -' archi vos oficiales cuando tellya un car.1ctcr cloculllcntnl
excepcional.,
Articulo, 52. Ea l:tcito, sin autorizaci6n del autor ni pago de
remuneraci6n especial, que un organismo de radiodifusi6n transrnita
o retransmita, pub,licam~nte por cable una obra originalmente
radiodifundida por el: c,on el consentimiento del autor, s iempre que
l~ transrniai6n 0 r.etransmici6n publica sea sirnul tanea con la
raqiodif~si6n original y q~9 ~a obra se ernita por radiodifusi6n 0
trans,mif;Ji6n publica sin alte:r;aciones.
A,rticulo 53. No constituye mOdificaci6n, para los efectos del
Artlculo 37 de la presente Ley, la atlapt-aci6n de un progranta de
ordenador realizada por el propio usuario y para su uso exclusivo.
TiTULO VII
Tranemisi6n de 10s Derechos
CAPiwLO I
Diepoeiciones Generales
Articulo 54. Los '~erechos' paerimon~ales pueden traneferirse por
mandato 0 presunci6n legal, 'mediante ceei6n entre vivos e,
tranemi~i6n mortis caUSq, por cualquier medic admitido en Derecho.
:Articu16 SS' .. ',Tooa cesion entre vivos se presume rea1izada a t1:tulo
onero8o, salvo 'pacto expreao eri cOlltr~rio.
,La 'eesi6n ee iimit'a a;L 'derecho 0, derechos cedido8, alas,
I,llodalidades de, e~plot'aci6n expresamente previstas en el contrate y
al"plazo y atnbitti territorial pactados.
El derecho cedido revertira a1 cedent8 a1 extingniree el
derecho del cesionario,
Articulo '56',: Es'; nula la cesi6u de derechos patrimonfales con
I
reapecto al cohjun'td de' las obras 'que un autor pueda ,crear en' el
'futuro;: 'al "1guai 'qu'e' ~ua'rcjuier estipula'ci6n' en la"que 'el autor se
obiigue' a' 'no ;crear:'nidg'un'l:1"' bbra 'en el:'futuro.
Artlculo 57." SalvQ.dispoaici6n expreaa ~e la Ley 0 del contrato,
la,ceBi6n no confier~ al ceeionario ningun derecho de exclusividad.
Articulo' 58. Salvo pacto 'en cC>i1t.'rario, la tranaferencla de
'de'recho8 por parte del cesionario a untercero mediante acto entre IP/NI1 IPAN/C/l
Page 22 4~~'
//,"»~f!.<¥ .. ' Ni 22.598 Q~~flclal. 1lI1crcoles lOde agosto de 1994 21:::'1 ,..-::~ .-'
vivos, no puede efectuarse sino 'COil el consentimiento del ceden t~,f( f!l ','
dado por escr:tto, ~-':~~
t.i'rf c " ,-~' sill embargo, 110 sera necesario el cOllsentimi<:!nto del cedente 1:'I'P. '~~.'
cuando la transferencia se e'fect\1e" como cOl1secuencia de la disolu-
ci6n'o del cambio de titularidad de' la persona jur~dica cesionaria.
Art:;1cul,o 59. La remuneraci6n por la cesion realizada a titulo
,oneroso, debe ser pa,ctada entre las, partes," 'y podra, ser fija 0
propo+~io~al a los ingres,os que,' obtenga el cesionario por la
explot~ci6n de l~,obra po~ la ~uantia convenida en ,el coritrato.
Articulo 60. LaB controversias q~e surjan entre e1 cedente y e1
cesionario seran ~ramitadas por la via del proceso sllmarib del
C6digo Judiciai, srIas partes no acue~dan 80meterlas a arbitraje.
Articulo 61, El,~itu~a~ de:derechos patrimoniales plled~, 19ual-
mente, conceder a terceros una simple licencia de uso, no exclusiva
e intransferible; 'la cual se regira de acuerdo con las estipulacio-
nes del contrato respectivo y las disposiciones atinentes Cl la
cesi6n de derechos~' en 'cuanto 'sean"aplicables.
Articulo 62. Los 'contratos de cesi6n de derechos patrimoniales y
'los de iicencia de uso deben constar en'forma escrita:
CAPfTULO 11.
Contrato de Edi~i6n
Articulo 63. El contrato'de edicion es aquel'por e1 cual'el~autor,
sus derechohabiellt'es 0 causahabiEmtes',' cederi a otra 'per'~ona ll~mada
editor, el' derecho ,cie:'public!ar, di'stribuir 'y divuigar la obra por
eu propia cuenta.
'Eri 10s; cas os de publicaciohes ae obras cil;!rit:lficas', dicciona
rios, antologias 0 enciclopedias; de pr61ogos, allotcicio'n'es " 'intro-
" .
,ducciones y presentaciones; de ilustraciones de una obra, de edi-
I ' '
cione-s populares' a'-pr'ecios' reducidos 0 de traducciones, s'ienipre que ..
to solicite e1 traducto'r,' Pbdr~' est'ipulal:'8~-- unCl 'remuneraci6n 'f ija.
Articulo 64. El' contrat6 d'e edici6n debe expr'eaar:'
1. L~' i'dent'if'ica~i6n del autor, del edi tor y de la obra.
2'. s:i,'~a"ob~a ea inedit,:\,o n?
, '
3,,_ Si, la .c~si6n pa!a editar, ti.ene car~cter de excl,t,l!~ividad. :-:-;::.~~~~ 22 Q'iC~~f.1( Ond:.,I. mU:rcolcg lOde agosto de 1994 IP/N/l/PAN/C/!
Page 23
~~-'---"-'--'----------------------------------~~~~~~4-*- ____ __ 4. El numero de edicioncs autorizadas.
5. El plazo para ponel:' en circulaci6n 109
edici6n.
6. La cantidad de ejemplares de la edici6n.
7. Los ejemplarea' que se reservan para el autor, la critica y
para la'promoci6n de' la obta.
O. La' remuneraci6il del a'utor, establecida de conformidad COil la
preaente Ley.
9. El plazo dentro del cual el autor debe entregar el original de
la obra al editor.
10. La ~alidad y dem6.s caq~eterrstica8 de la editi6n.
11. La f9rma de fijar e~ preeio de venta de 108 ejemplaree.
A~tlcu~,o 65. : l\ falta de diapooici61l expresa en el contrato, se
entendera que:
1. La obra ya ha aido publicada con anterioridad.
2. No se confiere al editor ningun derecho de exelusividad.
3. S~ c~de ~i:edi~6r el derecho paia'u~a sola edici6n, l~ cual
debe~a estar 'a dispoaici6n del publico en el plazo de un (1)
ano,' c6ntado de'ade la' entrega del ejemplar al editor en
cond':1.ci?ilea adecuadas par~ la reproducci6n do la obra.
4. in nlimero minimo de ej emplares 'que conetituyen la prlmera
edici6n, sera de dos mil (2,000).
5. El n'umero ~fe 'ejemplares reservad08 para el autor, la cdtica
y la promoci6n, sera del ciueo por ciento (5%) y no maa de
setenta y c~nco (75) ejemplares de la edici6n, distribuidoB
proporcionalmente para cada fin.
6. La remuneraei6n del autor no sera' inferior al veinte por
ciento (20\) del pre'cio por ejemplar vendido al publico.
7. El 'autor debera entregar el ejemplar original de la oqra al
editor, en: el plazo de noventa (90) d1aa a partir de la fecha
de celebraci6n del eontrato.
B. La edici6n oera de calid~d media, segun loa U80S y coeturnbres. IP/N/l/PAN/C/1
Page 24
Oaceta Onclal. ml~rcole5 lOde agosto de 1994
9. El precio de 10s ej emplares al publico sera f ijado
editor.
Articulo 66. Son obligaciones del editor:
1. Publicar la obra en la forma pactada, sin introducirle ningllua
modificaci6n que el autor no haya convenido.
2. Indicar en cada ejemplar el titulo de la obra, el non~re 0
seud6nimo del au~or y del traductor, a menos que estos exijan
que la pUblicacion sea anonima: la reserva del derecho de
autor seiialrtnnn el alio de la p'rimern puhlic(\ci6n, prp.cedida
del sfn~010 de la c encerrado en cfrculo (C); el ano y'lugar
de la e9ici6t:l .Y. de la,s anterio~es, .si hubiere; e1 nornl?re y
direcci6n del edito~ y del .impreaor, y el numero de ej emplares
,editadoe.
3. Someter, para la aprobaci6n del autor, la copia final
completa, ~alv~ pacto en contrario .
. 4. D.ist.ribuir ':( ;dif'-;1ndlr la oqra en el pla;z:o 'y conc;ilciones
estipu1adas, y conE9rme a 10s usos habituales.
5. ~atisfqcer a;l. autor con l,a remunerasi6n c;:onvenida. Cuando
esta sea proporcional deb~r' pagarle al auto~ semestralmente
las cantidades. que le corr,e8p~ndan •. ~al VO, que acuer'gen un
plazo menor~ .. Si se llubie$e. pact;ado una remuneracion fija;·
esta sera exigible desde el momento en que ·.1os ejemplares
esten disponib~es pcu-;a all dlstr.ibudoll y. venta.
6. Presentar a1 autor, segun las condiciones indicadas en el
numeral anterior, un estado de cu~ntas con ind~caci6~ ~e la
fecha y tiraj e de la edici6n. cantidad de. ej.e~pl!1res yenc;iidoe
y en dep6sito para la. colocaci6n. aS1, como el numero de 10s .. . . ,'"
ejemplares inutilizadoa o. deatruid08 pqr c<:,-so fortuito 0
fuerza mayor.
7. Vermitir al autar la verificaci6n de lOG documentos y
comprobantes de lOB eatadoB de cuentas, a81 co~o la
fiscalizaci6n de loa dep6sit08 d9nde Be encuentren lOB
ejemplareB de la edicion. IP/N/IIPAN/CIl
Page 25
2/~ 22.598
U. CUlllplir los procedimientos que
controles de tirada.
9. Solicitar el registro del derecho de aut~r sobre la obra y
hacer el deposito legal, en nombre del autor, cuando este no
10 hubiese hecho.
10. Restituir al autor e1 original y cualquier soporte material en
que se haya fijado la obra objeto de la edici6n, UIla vez hnyan
finalizado las operaciones de impresion y tiraje de la obra.
Articulo 67. Son obligaciones del autor:
1. Entregar al editor, en debida forma y en el plazo convenido,
el original de la obra objeto de la edicion.
2. Responder al editor por la autoria y originalidad de la obra,
asi como por el ejercicio pacifico del derecho cedido.
3. Corregir las pruebas de la tirada, salvo pacto en contrario.
Articulo 68. Mientr~s no se haya publicado la obra, el autor ~uede
introducirle las modificaciones que considere convenientes, siempre
que no alteren el caracter y el destino de la obraj pero debera
pagar cualquier aumento de 108 gastos causados par las modi-
ficaciones, cuando sobrepasen el limite admitido por los usos 0 el
porcentaje maximo de correcciones estipulado.
Articulo 69. En caso de contratos por tiempo determinado, los
derechos del editor se extinguiran de pleno derecho al vencimiento
del termino.
Sin embargo, salvo pacto en contrario, el editor podra vender
al precio normal, dentro de 108 tres (3) anos siguientes al
vencimiento del termino, 10s ejemplare8 que se encuentren en
deposito, a menos que el autor prefiera rescatar los ejemplares con
un descuento del cuarenta por ciento (40%) del precio de venta al
publico.
Articulo 70. Si transcurridos tres (3) auos de estar la edicion a
disposicion del publico, no se hubiese vendido mas del treinta par
ciento (30%) de los ejemplares, el editor podra liquidar 108 ejem-IP/N/1/PAN/CIl
Page 26
Nil 22.593 Gaccla Onclal. micrcoles lOde agosto de 199'" ~~~~,
~--------------------------------------------~--------------~------~~~~~~~~~~;\
Plares restantes a un precio inferior al pactado, previ,a notiE;;c::'~{- ....I~;;;-. \~.
i\'''' '··lr~r.;:·;~~t ,'" , ci6n al aut~r. ~. .~:.:, l ' \ .....,
'~ 'i-i El autor, dentro de los treintil (]O) dras siguielltes fI\ .. -l.4k:';';--~\"'~··~-/.f
~.:~l !"~.' 1/ ...... ;-::
notificaci6n, debera optar entre adquirir 10s ejemp1ares call un
descuento del cincuellta por ciento (50%) del precio de I iq\l iUi:1Cioll
establecido POL' el editor; 0 en caso de remuneracion propor-cional,
percibir el diez por ciento (10%) del precio de 1 iql.lidacion
facturado pur el edItor.
Articulo 71. La muerte del autor antes de concluir su obra, da por
terminado el contrato de plena derecho.
Si despues de haber realizado y entregado al editor unR parte
considerable de la obra susceptible de ser publicada, el autor
muere 0 le resulta imposible concluirla, e1 editor podra, a su
eleccioll, desistir el contrilt'o 0 dnrlo por cumplido en In par!"!;!
realizada, mediallte la rebaja proporciollal de una calltidild de la
remuneracion convenida, a IIlenos que el autor 0 sus derechohab.ientes
manifiesten su voluntad de no publicar la obra inconclusa. En este
caso, si despues el cedente 0 sus derechohabientes ceden el derecho
de publicar la obra. a un tercero, deben indemnizar al editor por
los dafios y perjuicios ocasionados por la resolucion del contrato.
Articulo 72. La quiebra 0 la formaci6n de concurso de acreedores
al editor, cuando la obra no se hubiere a~n impreso, dilran por
terminados el contrato, pero subsistira hasta la concurrencia de
los ejemplares impresos. El contrato continuara hasta. su
term; naci6n si, al p·:-oducirse la quiebra, se hubiere iniciado la
impresion y el editor 0 curador as! 10 soliciten, dando garantias
suficientes, a juicio del Juez, para realizar la edicion hasta su
terminaci6n.
Artl.culb 73. Las disposiciones del presente capitulo son
aplicables, en 10 pertinente, a 109 contratos de edicion de obras
mu.sicales. El contrato' quedara resuelto de pleno derecho, si el
editor que adquiere una participacion, temporal 0 permanEmtemente,
en otros 0 todos los demas derechos patrimaniales sabre la obra,no IP/N/1/PAN/C/1
Page 27
26 Gaccta ondal. mlcrcolcs lOde agoslo de 1994 \,0' "q,:l' ,/~'4 22.596
pone en venta un numero suficiente de ejemplares~{~l~~', para la
difusi6n de la obra, dentr6 de los seis (6) meses siguientes a la
fecha del contrato, 0 si a pesar de la petici6n del autor, e1
editor no pone en venta Iluevos ejemplares de la obro, cuya tirada
inieial se hubiese agotado.
El autor podr' pedir la resoluci6n del'contrato si la o~ra
musical no ha producido,beneficlos econ6micos en tres (3) ~Hos y e1
editor ho ~rueba haber realizado actbs posi~i~os p~ra la difusi6n
de ia obra.
CAPITULO III
Contratos de Representacion y de Ejecucion Musical
Artl'culo 74. Por los contratos de represent<1ci6n y de ejecucion
musical, e1 autor 0 sus derechohubielltes cedell 0 1 icenciull ,1 'Ullil
perso~a ' natural' 0: j'ud,di'ca e'l :de"recho de representar 0 ej ecutar
publicamente una obra 1 iteraria, d,ramatica, musical, dram't:ico:
musical, pantomimica 0 coreogr,Hica; a cambio de una compensacion
econ6mica.
Estos contratos pueden celebrarse por tiempo determinado, 0
" . . ..
pOF un numero determinado de representaciones 0 ejecuciones
publ~ca8,.
Articulo 75. En caso de cesi6n de derechos exclusivos, el termino
de duraei6n del contrato no podra exceder de cinco (5) al1os. La
falta 0 interrupci6n de la8 representaciones 0 ejecuciones durante
dos (2) an08 consecutivos dara por terminado el contrato, de pleno
derecho.
Arti6ulo 76~ El ~m~res~iid ~sta obligadci '8 p~rmitir a1 aut~r, 0 a
sus ±eprese~tantes; 1~ inspecci6n de la representacion 6 ejecucion:
a satisfacer puntualmente la remuneracion convenida: a presentar al
autor 0 a sus representantes en el programa de la representaci6n 0
ejecuci6n; y anotar, en plani11as diarias. las obras utilizadas y
el nombre de sus respectivoa autores; y. cuando la remuneracion
tueee proporciona1, a presentar una documentaci6n f idedigna de sus
ingresos. IP/N/l/PAN/C/1
Page 28 .... 'a.dep~~ ~"\V QIl'
'~::<) ~~ . ~ --~. ,?
~ ~tl\"~'~ Q.'1' jr;;.,< I
<?3:Cct~ ~ltdal. ml~l'cores lOde agosto de 1994 \, \ 1 '1"§' ....., ~
Articulo 77. El empresario esta igualmente obligado a que~i'~" '. \\.~/
"',<.,['1';' ~
repreoentaci6n 0 ej ecuci6n se real ice en condiciones tecnicas d;' ,,,.--
modo que se garantice la integridad de 'la obra y la dignidad y
reputaci6n de 8u'atitor.
1\rtfculo 78. '; La autoridad competente autorizara la real i~aci6n de.
cspectaculo~"o, audiciones y. expedir~ las licenciaa :da· funciona
mien to cuando el reaponaable de la'repreaentaci6n 0'ejecuci6n 0 del
rcspc?tiv9 eatablecimie~t0 'acredite :la autorizaci6n de loa
tit\ll~re!J dcl.derecho.aobr~,laB obras objeto de la represelltacion
o ejecuqi6n, 0 de la entida4 ,de gesti6n. col(!ctiva que administre el
reper~9r~0 corr~spondien~~.
l~rticulo 79., Laa diapooiclones.· relat.ivas aloe contratoB de
reprenentaci6n, Q. ~jecuci6n, .flon tambi.tin ap1icablce alas demas
modalidadea de comunicaci6n publica a que ee refiere el articulo . ,
3,8, en cuanto ,.cox:r:eeJ?onde.
CJ\PiTULO IV
Contrato de inclusi6n fonografica
Articulo 80" . 'Por' e'l' cot1trato de' fnclusi6d:'fonogra.fica el autor de
una obra rm.1Sical'!it.utori ita 'a un prOi:hictor de" fonogramas, a cambio de
iemunetaci~n, 'a 9~rabar! 0 !fij~r una ~bra" para reproducirla mediante',
un disco 'fonografico~':uha ba'nda magliet'ica, una pelicula 0 cualquier " .' ,
otro disposi~'i~6 0 mecanisnki 'anaiOgoi ton flbee de reproduccion y
venta de ejempiares.
La autoriza~i6n :concedida al prOductor"fonografico ho comp'ren
de 'el derecno de ejecuci6n publica de la obra cont.enida en cl fono
grama~ El prodtictor debera hClcer' esCl 'rE!pervCl en l{\ .. etiqueta adhe
rida al disco, dlspoE!itiv9 0 m,ecani~m6 en que se reproduzca e1
~onograma,.
Art!culo 81. El productor eata obligado a consignar en tod09 109
ejemplares,o,copi~~ del fonograma las indicaciones siguientes:
1. El t~tulo d~ la.s. obraa y los nombrea 0 aeud6nimos de los
autores, as! coma e1 de loa 'arreglistaa y vers'ionlstas, si 109
hubi~re. 'Si Ht obra 'fuere an6ni~. as'! se l~ar~ cons tar .
2. El nomb~e 'de lo~ interpretes, asi ~omo la denomlllac16n de loa IP/N/IIPAN/C/l
Page 29
28 <l~cet.a Otldal, mlcr(:nfcs lOde agosto de 1994
-----=~q--~--------------------~----~------------------------~~~ conjuntos orqt,.testilles 0 corales y el 1I0mbre de sus
directores.
3. Las siglils de la entidad de gesti6n
pertenezcan los autores y artistas.
4 . La menci6n de reserva de derechos sobre el fonograma, con
indicaci6n :del . sfmbolo (P) I seguido del ano de. la 'primera
.publicaci6n ..
5. ~a. denominaci6n del productor fonografico.
LaB indicacionSB'que por falta de'e8pacio'adQc~add no pUedan
estamparse directamente sobre'loe ejemplares 0 copias que contienen
la reproducci6n, seran obligatoriamente impresas en sus envoltorios
o ~n t6iiet~~~dj~nto.
Art~~ul~ 92 .. E~·productor·foriogr&fica esta'obli~ado a 11evar un
aiatema: .' de' .regiatro que . permita comproba:t',:a lOB autore8 y
·artistas, .la .. cantidad de reproducciones vendldaSi y debera'permit:l:r
que estos puedan verifica~ la exactitud de las liquidaciones de sus
remuneraciones m~diante la. inspecci6n de comprobantes, oficinas y
dep6sitos, ya sea personalmente 0 a traves de representantes
autorizad08.
Articulo 83~·. Laa dispqsiciones del presente capitulo son aplica-
bles e~ 10 pertinente' ~ las obras literarias que se utilicen como
texto. de, una' obra musical, 0 com~ declamaci6n. o. lectura para su
fijaci6n ~fi un fonograma, con fines. de reproducci6n y Nenta.
CAPITULO v
Licencias Obligatorias
Artl.culo 84·... ~a, autoridad competente 0 cuafquier otra entidad que
se designe ~n los reglamentoB podra conceder licencia no exclusiva ... . . '. . . . . ; ~ . .
de. traduccion y d.e producci6n de obraa extranjeras destinadas a lOB . ' . ~ . ~. . .
.. objetivos . y .con .el cumplimiento de. los l;'equisitos ~xigi~oa para
.~ .' • '!.. .; ~ ", I •••• • '. .. • • • • , :' •
dichas licencias por la Ley No.8 de 24 de octubre de 1974, que . " .
aprueba la Convenci6n Universal de Derecho9 de Autor, revisada en
Par1s e1 24 de jul'io de 1971, asr co~o tambien por" otros convenios
internacionalea.ratlflcadoa por panam~. IP/N/l/PAN/C/!
Page 30
~!_~~9~3 __________ 0_~_C_C_l_a_o~n~c~1_a~I._m __ I~~K~O~IC~S~IO~d~e~D~g~o~s~t~o~~~~~~~~~~9~
TITULO VIII
Deree,hos Conexos
C1\PITULO I
Disposiciones Generales
Articulo 05. La protecci~n reconocida sabre 108 derechos eonexos
al,derecho de autor, ,no afectara de nin~una manera la tutela del
derecho de, autor sobre las obras cientfficas, artfstieas 0
literarias. En coneecuencia, ninguna de las disposiciones compren
didas en e1 presente titulo podra interpretarse en menoscabo de esa
protecci6n, y en caso de conflicto se adopta 10 que mas favorezca
al autor.
Artictilo 86. Los titulares de los derechos reconocido8 en este
titulo pod ran invocar laa dispoeiciones relativas a loa autorea y
sue obras" en cuanto eaten conformea con, la naturaleza de sus
respectivos derechQs, inc~usive las aceiones y procedimientoB
previsto8 eQ e~ Titulo X~I y las relativas a 108 limites de 108
,
,derech~8 patrimoniales, indicados en el Titulo VI, Capitulo 11 de
la pres,ente Ley.
,CAPITULO 11
Artistas" Int~rprete8 y, Ej ecutantee
Articulo 87,: Los artistas, interpretes y ejecutantes, 0 sus
derechohabientes, _ti~nen el derecho exclusivo para auto;iz~r 0 no
a~toriza,r, la" ,fija,ci6n" reproducc~6n 0 comunicaci6n publica, por
cualqi..lier media 0,', pr~cedimiento, de, BUS ir:terpretaciollea 0
ej ecuciones. Sin 'embargo" no podran oponerse a la comuri~ca~i6n
'cuando eata'fie'efecta,e'<;l partir:~e ul'lB.',fijaci6n reali2ada con, su'
previ'o, conBentimi~nto> publ.ic~da ~O,l1 fines, c,omerciales.
, Loa ,artistas int~rpretoCJ, t~ndr.1n iglialmente el derecho'moral
de. vincular' su ·nombre '0 .seud6nimo a' la 'interpret~ci6n y de impedir.
cualquier deformaci6n de la .. ohra: que ponga et;l.peligro au iI,ltegri,dad
o x:eJ?~taci6n •. '
~t'!cul~ 88., ::,LnQ, orqueetas" gropos vocales. '.! qe~s agru~cioneB de
int~rpreteo .. 0 ~ .ejecuta,ntes;., dcs~gn~rcin un repx:caentante aloe lP/N/l/PAN/C/l
Page 31
!.:_"',.__ O.:c·!tm Oficlal. lllli!rcoles 10 de ano~to de 1994 N-22."'" ~~~~
efecton del ejercicio de 109 dercchos'reconocidos por ~9ta Le £' ~ ~QY \
A falta de designaci6n, correspondera la representaci6n a 0 ~ .... 7'
~ 6" '. ./ ,'.-I.~, respectivos directiv08. ~:1 Cf:r ~--:\; '>:/
~'.: "" Art!culo 89. La duraci6n de la protecci6n concedida en este
cap!tulo sera de cinCllenta (50) anos, contados a partir del primero
de enero del af10 siguiente a la actuaci6n, cuando se trate de
interpretaciones 0 ejecuciones no fijadas, 0 de la publicaci6n,
cuando la actuaci6n este grabada en un 80porte sonoro 0
audiov.isual.
cAPiTUr .. o rII
Productores de fonogramas
Articulo 90" Los productores fonograficos tienen el derecho exclu
sivo de autorizar 0 no autorizar la reproducci6n de sus fonogramas.
Se permite la importaci6n y distribuci6n de fonogramas, siempre que
estos sean leg!timos.
Artfculo 91. Los productores de fonogramas tienen el derecho a
recibir una remuneracion por la comunicacion del fonogra.':'.a al
publico, salvo en los casos de las utilizaciones licitas perti·
nentes, indicadas en el.Titulo VI, Capitulo I~ de la presente Ley.
Artfcu10 92. Los productores fonograficos 0 sus derechohabientes
percibiran las remuneraciones a que ee refiere el articulo ante
rior, y abonaran, a 16s artistas interpretes 0 ejecutantes de las
obras incluidas en e1 fonograma, e1 cincuenta por ciento (50~) de
la cantidad neta que el productor rec-l.ba de la entidad de gestion
colectiva a que ~e refiere e1 Titulo IX de l~ presente Ley.
Artfculo 93. Salvo convenio dist1nto entre ellos, e1 abono depido
a los artistas sera repartido a razon de dos terceras (2/3) partes
para los interpretes y una tercera (1/3) parte para 10s musicos
ejecutantes, inclusive orquestadores y directores.
Art1.culo 94. La protection concedida al productor de fonograma
sera de cincuenta (50) anos, contados a partir del primero de enero
del ano siguiente a la primera publicacion del fonograma.
Articulo 95. CAPITULO IV
'Organismos de radiodifusi6n
Los organismos de radiodifusi6n tienen e1 derecho .~. '. IP/N/1/PAN/C/l
Page 32
'l'\Q··~';l.59a Gaceta OficIal. mlcrcolcs 10 de agosto de 1994· 31
-\ ~ {\
~xelu8ivo de autorizar 0 no autorizar la fijaci6n, la reproducci6n
:1
y la retransmisi6n de'sus emisiones, por'cualquier medio 0 proce-
dimimiento.
J\rtieul0 96. La proteeei6n concedida a los organismos de
radiodifusi6n sera de cincuenta (50) anos, contados a partir del
primero de enero del aDO siguiente al de la emisi6n radiodifundida.
TITULO IX
La Gesti6n Colectiva
Articulo 97. Las entidades de gesti6n colectiva constituidas para
defender 108 derechos patrimonialea reconoeidos en la presente Ley,
de sus asociados 0 representados, 0 de loa afiliados a entidades
extranj eras de la misma naturaleza, necesitan, para los fines de au
ftUlCionamiento, una autorizaei6n del Estado y estaran sujetas a la
fiscalizaci6n, en los terminos de esta Ley y 10 que disponga e1
reglamento.
Las entidades de gesti6n colectiva estaran 1egitimadas, en los
terminos que resu1ten ~e sus propios estatutos y de 109 contratos
que ce1ebren con entidades extranjeras, para ejercer los·derechos
.confiados a su administraci6n y hacerlos valer en toda elase de
procedimientos administrativos y judiciales.
Articuio 98. Las entidades de gesti6n co1ectiva deberan sumi-
nistrar a sus soeios y representados una informaci6n periodica,
completa y detallada de todas las actividades de la orga~izaci6n
que puedan interesar al ej ercicio de sus derechos. Similar
informaci6n debe ser enviada alas entidades extranjeras con las
cuales mantengan contratos de representacion en e1 territorio
nacional.
Articulo 99. Las entidades de gestion colectiva quedan facultadas
para recaudar y distribuir las remuneraciones correspo~dientes a la
utilizaci6n de las obras cuya administraci6n se les haya confiado,
en los terminos de la presente Ley y de los estatutos societarios.
Para tale~ efectos est~n obligadas a:
1. Contratar con quien 10 solicite, salvo motivo justificado, la 32 IP/NI1 IPAN/CI 1
Page 33
Oaccta Ofiela •• lnlercolcs 1 0 d~ agoslo de 19'94
conceaion de licencias no exclusivas de uso
gestionados, en condiciones ~azonable9 y bajo
2. Negociar las tarifas generales que determinen
exigida p~r la utilizacion de au repertorio.
No obstante, quedan siempre a salvo las utilizaciones
singularea de una 0 varias obras de cualquier claee que requieran
la autorizaci6n individualizada de su titular.
Articulo 100. En los estatutos de las entidades de gestion
colectiva se hara constar:
1. La denominacion de la entidad.
2. SU objeto 0 fines, con indicacion de los derechos admi-
niatradoa.
3. Las clases de titulares de derechds comprimidos en la gestion
y la participacion de cada categoria de titulares en la
direccion a administracion de la entidad.
4. Las condicionea para la a<:1quiaiciot1 y pe;r-dida de la calidad de
socia.
5. Los d8rechos de los sOGios y representados.
6. Loe deberes de los socioa y representados, y Sl.l regimen disci·
plinario.
7. Los 6rganos de gobierno y'sus respectivas competencias.
8. El procedimiento para la elecci6n:de las.autoridades.
9. El patrimonio inicial y 10e recureos'economicos previstos.
10. Las reglas para la aprobaci6n de las normas de recaudacion y
dietribuci6n.
11. El regimen de control y fiecalizacion de la gestion economica
y financiera de la entidad.
12. La oportunidad de presentacion del balance y la memoria de lae
actividades realizadas anualmente, asi como el procedimiento
para la verificacion del balance y eu documentaciort.
13. El destino del patrimonio de la entidad, en caso de disolu-
cion. IP/N/l/PAN/C/!
Page 34
~-:-"
/.:-:: &~ ~.~![:N·;;22 598
/~1Y--, ,) .: Gaccta onclal • 1l11crcoles lOde agosto de 1994 33
El reparto de 108 derecho8 recaudados SB e(ectunr~ {?:if :<,T:;.',~!. Art, culo 10l.
~! \~:~1):~~...:I tativamente entre los titulares de los derechos administrados, \ If.>.'" v' II \ '0'.J~· ~/(~~ r ::.--Ill ~f:Tr ~ a:n arreglo a un sistema predeterminado y aprobado conEorm~ 10
~~~-=,:::.;:,.;;.;r
dispongan los estatut08, donde se excluya la arbitrariedad y se
aplique el principio de la distribuci6n en forma proporcional a la
utili zaci6n de las ob,ras, interpretaciones 0 producciones, segun el
caso.
Articulo 102. Las entidades de gestion colectiva e8tan obligadas
a notificar a la Direcci.on General de Derecho de Autor, los
nOhlbra}n~eptQ§1 y ~l ~ese d~ ~o.§ ~t!tntnistrad6res y apoderad6S, lCis
tarifas generales y sus modificaciones, los contratos celebrados
con asociaciones de usuarios' y 108 conectados con organizaciones
extranjeras de la misma naturaleza, asi como 10s demas documentos
indicados en el Articulo'110 de la presente Ley.
TITULO X
Registro del Derecho de Autor y Derechos Conexos
Articulo 103. La OOcina de Registro del Derecho de Autor y
Derechos Conexos, adscrita a la Direcci6n General de Derecho de
Autor, estara encargada de tramitar las solicitudes de iriscripci6n
de las obras protegidas y de las producciones fonograficas; de las
interpretaciones 0 ejecuciones artisticas y de las producciones
radiof6nicas que esten fijadas en un soporte material; y de 10s
acto~ y contratos q~e se refieran a 108 derechos reconocidos err la
presente Ley. E~ iegistro tendra caracter dnico en el territorio
nacional.
Articulo 104. La Direcci6n General de Derecho de Autor
reglamentara 109 requisitos par<;l la in.sc:ripci6n de las obras y
otros actos que deban registrarse, segan su.naturaleza.
Articulo 105. El registro dara fe, salvo prueba en contrario, de
. . la exi9tencla de la obra, interpretaci6n, producci6n fonografica 0
rad:lof6nica; y del he'cho de 9U divulgaci6n y publicaci6n, ~Sl. como
. . .. la autencidad y seguridad jur!dica de 109 actos que transfieran,
total 0 parcialmente, derechoa re~onocidos en esta Ley, u otorguen
representaci6n para eu administraci6n 0 dieposici6n. IP/N/lIPAN/CIl
Page 35
de 1994 Nt 22.598
que las personas
derecho que se les
en tal caracter.
Articulo 106. Los autores. editores. artistas. productores 0
divulgadores de 1as obras y producciones protegidas por esta Ley,
depositaran en el registro los ejemplares de la obra 0 produccion,
en los terminos que determine la Direcci6n General de Derecho de
Autor.
La Direccion General de Derecho de Autor podra. mediante
re801ucion motivada, permitir, la sustitucion del dep6sito ~el
ejemplar, en determinados generos creativos, por e1 acompaiiamiento
de recaudos y documentos que permitan identificaL' suficientemente
las caracteristicas y el contenido de la obra 0 producci6n objeto
del registro.
Art:f.culo 107. Las formalidades establecidas en 108 artfcul08
anteriores solo tienen caracter declarativo, para mayor seguridad
juridica de los titulares, y no son constitutivas de derechos.
En consecuencia, la omisi6n del registro 0 del deposito no
perjudica e1 goce ni el ejercicio de 10s derechos reconocidos en la
presente Ley.
Artl.cu10 108. Sin perjuicio de las formalidades registrales
previstas en otras leyes, las entidades de gesti6n co1ectiva
deberan inscribir su acta constitutiva y sus estatutos en e1
Registro de,l Derecho de Autor, asl. como las tarifas, reglamentos
internos, normas sobre recaudaci6n y distribuci6n, contratos de
representaci6n con entidades extranjeras y demas documentos que
establezca el reglamento.
TITULO XI
Direcci6n General de Derecho de Autor
Articulo 109. Denomfnese Direcci6n General de Derecho de Autor al
actual Registro de la Propiedad Literaria y Artistica del Ministe
rio de Educaci6n, el cual ejercera 1as funciones de registro,
dep6sito, vigi1ancia e inspecci6n en el ambito administrativo y IPINIl/PANICI 1
Page 36
N222.598 G<lccl<l Olici;ll. Illicrcoles lOde "~Jo'il() de I !J~)/I
siguientes atribuciones:
1. Curnplir y hacer cumplit" las disp()r,;ici()\\C~s tl~ la
y sus reglamentos.
2. Lleva)~ el Registro del Derecllo de Autor, ell los t~~t:IlIil\oS
previstos en el Titulo X de esta Ley.
3. Decidir 105 requisitos que deben ll(!llal~ la illscripcifm y el
f deposito de las obras, interprelaciones, produce lOlles y
pllulicClciolles, ~;(1.lvo ell 10s C(1.S0S r'?5u(!ltos expresnIll811t"f'! por
121 regli1rnento.
4. Autorizrlr e1 [1lI1ciolli:1Illiento de 1;18 elllidades dl~ (J'~Gt i<"ill
coleetiva, previo cumplirniento de 105 requisitos exi'jidos por
esta Ley y 108 que eventualmente pueda indicar e1 re<jlalllento.
5. Supervisitr Cl Jas pet'sonas n<::tturales 0 jllridic(ls qUr:! llt.illc'=ll
1<'18 obras, illterpLl~ti'1c:i()IlCS y pt'()ducci()llr~s v)·ote rJicl.·1H, 011
cuanto den lugilr al goce y ejercici.o de 10s derec:hos
establecidos en la presellte Ley.
6. Servir de arbitro cUClmlo las partes aSl 10 solicitell.
7. Aplicar las sanciones adlllinistrntivClS pl-evistas en e1 presente
titulo.
8. l\dministra:r: e1 centro de in[orlllacion rt=lativo Cl Ins ubrCls,
interpretaciones y producciones nacionales y extranjeras, que
se utilicen en e1 territorio de ·Panama.
9. Pub1icar peri6dicamente e1 Boletin del Derecho de·Autor.
10. Fomentar la difuEJion y e1 conocimiellto sobre la proteccloll de
10s derechos inteiectuales y servir de 6rganb de inEormaci61l
y cooperacioll COil los urYClllisll108 illtp.rt1[lcionaJ CH
especializados.
11. Ejercer las dem&s funciones que le sefialen la presente Ley y
su reg1amento.
Articulo 110. En 108 casos de arbitrClje sometido a la considera-
cion de la Direcci6n General de Derecho de Autor, se aplicara, en 36 Gacela ondar. mica-cores rOde ;1g05lo de 199'" IPINI 1 IPAN/CI 1
Page 37
Nq22.59~
------------------------------.--------------------------------------------~q~~~ 10 pertinente, el procedimiento arbitral contetnplado en e1 Cudi' :.. ~
Judicial.
Articulo 111. ------- - ! Q., \1": <SF
.~ ~ f • ~~~~*:.
-\ I .... La Direccion General de Derecllo c..le Autor podt-a ~
: :~';. r: --.. --f)<t~ imponer sanciones alas entidades de gesti6n colectiva qll~ __ .f.~~.~?~
infrinjan sus propios estatutos y reglarnentos, a que incurran en
hechos que aEecten los intereses de sus socios 0 representadus, sin
perjuicio de las acciones c-:iviles 0 de las si1l1ciOlles pAllnlo.s C(ll":?
correspondan.
Articulo 112. Las sanciones a que se reE iere el at-t iculo
precedente podran ser:
1. Amonestacion privada y escrita.
2. Amonestacion publica diEundida por un media de comunicacion
escrita de circulaciull naciollal, a costa del infractor.
3. Multa de mll lJallJoils (13/.1,000.00) a velnte mLl bi11boas
(8/.20,000.00), de acuerdo con la gravedad de la falta.
4. Suspension de la autorizacion de funcionamiento tlasta por el
lapso de un (1) aoo, de acuerdo con la gravedad de la faIta.
5. Cance1acion de la autorizaci6n para fUIlcionar en casos
particularmente graves y en los t§rminos que sena1e e1
reg1amento.
Articulo 113. Las inEracciones de las normas de esta Ley 0 de su
reglamento~ que no constituyan delito, seran sancionadas por la
Direccion General de Derecho de Autor, previa audiencia del
infractor, con multa de mil balboas (8/.1,000.00) a veinte tnil
balboas (8/.20,000.00), de acuerdo con la gravedad de la-falta.
Para tal eEecto, se notificara al presunto responsab1e, emplazando-
10 para que, dentro de un plazo de quince (15) dias, presente las
pruebas para su defensa. En caso de reincidencia, que se conside-
rara como tal la repetici6n de un acto de la misma naturaleza en un
lapso de un (1) aoo, se podra imponer el doble de la multa.
Articulo 114. La Direcci6n General de Derecho de Autor, de oficio
o por solicitud de la parte afectada, procedera a la suspension de
cualquier modalidad de comunicaci6n publica de las obras, IPINlllPANICll
Page 38
Ni 22.598
interpretaciones 0 producciones protegidas por
cuando el responsable no acredite por escri to
cesionario 0 licenciatario de uso del respectivo derecho y
modalidad de utilizaci6n, sin perjuicio de la [aeultad de lu parte
interesada de dirigirse a la autoridad judicial para qUl~ tome
medidas deEinitivas de su competencia.
Articulo 115. Las decisiones de la Direcci6n General de Derecho de
Autor admitiran recurso de reconsideraci6n ante el Director Genera l
de Derecho de Autor; y de apelaci6n, ante el Ministro de Educaci6n.
En cada instancia el interesado dispondra de cinco (5) dias habiles
a partir de la notiEicaci6n.
TiTULO XII
Acciones y Procedimientos
CAPITULO I
Acciones y procedimientos civiles
Articulo 116. Las acciones civiles que se e~e~zan con Eundamento
en esta Ley, se tramitaran y decidiran en procedimiento sumario,
conforme alas disposiciones del C6digo JUdicial.
Articulo 117. El titular de derechos reconocidos en la presente
Ley, a titulo originario 0 derivado, lesionado en su derecho y sin
perjuicio de otras aceiones que le correspondan, pOdra pedir al
Juez que ordene el cese de la actividad ilicita del infractor y
exigir la indemnizaci6n de 108 danos materiales y morales causados
por la violaci6n.
Asimismo podra solicitar, con caracter previo, la adopci6n de
las medidas cautelares de caracter general establecidas en el
C6digo Judicial y las medidas cautelares de protecci6n urgente
indicadas en el Articulo 119 de la presente Ley.
Se establece un plazo de cinco (5) anos para el ejercicio de
la acci6n civil contados a partir de la fecha en que esta acci6n
pudo ~er ejercida.
Articulo 118. El cese de la actividad ilicita podra comprender:
1. La suspensi6n de la ut~lizaci6n infractora. 38
2.
3 • IP/N/l/PAN/C/1
Page 39
Gaceta Oflc1aL mlcrcoles lOde agosto de 1994,,' :--(': rr~r.7f ',C:'\!1"\~2.598
• j' \ It:.:"" 4"/ I I /! La prohibicion al 1nfractor de reCl.nudarlCi.'.(.i'\\ ~;,~<, ! 't ';.>;, ~;/
\'. 'l;o~'_ \.>' ,', El retiro del comercio de los ej ell\plares<;7'illGY~ ~'y su
destrucd.on.
4. La inutilizacion de los moldes, planchas, matrices, negativos
y demas elementos utilizados exclusivarnente para la
reproducci6n iJ leit-Cl y, All r.Cl!'lO 1lf?<":psClrio, 1<1 c1eRtt'Ucci{lll clA
tales instrumentos.
El.titular del de~echo infringido podra ped~r la entrega de
los ejemp.J;ares, il:i'.citos y del, material utilizado para la
reprodu~cion, a precio de ,costo y a cuenta de la corre8pondient~
indemnizaci6n por danoe y perjuicios.
Articulo 119. En caso de infraccion 0 violacion ya rea1izada, e1
Juez podra decretar, por solicitud del titular lesionado, las
rnedidas cautelares que, segun la.s circunstan<;:ias, fuesen necesarias
para Iq. protecGion urgElnte de tales derechos, entre, ellas ' las
siguientes:
1. El secuestro de 108 ingres08 obtenidos con la utilizacion
ilicita.
2. El secuestro de 108 ejemplares ilicitamente reproducidos y de
108 aparat08 utilizados para la reproduccion.
3. La suspension de la: 'actividad de reproduccio,n, comunicacion 0
distribucion no autorizadas, segun proteda.
Las medidas indicadas en este articulo se decreta ran si el
presunto infractor no acredita por escrito la cesi6n 0 licencia
correspondiente, 0 si se le acompaoa al Juez un medio probatorio
que constituya presunci6n grave del derecho que se reclama, 0 si
dicha presunci6n surge de las propias pruebas que el Juez ordena
para la demostraci6n del ilicito.
En todo caso, el solicitante de las medidas cautelares
mencionadas en este articulo, debera consignar la fianza 0 garantla
8uficiente para responder por los perjuicios y costa~ que pudiere
ocasionar,
La suspensi6n de un especUiculo publico por la utilizaci6n lPINll/PANICll
Page 40
Nt 22.598
illcita de las obras, interpretaciones 0 producciones
podra eer decretada por el Juez del lugar de la inEracci6n, aun
cuando no sea competente para C01l0cer tIel juicio principal.
El secuestro a que se refiere e1 presente articulo no 8urtira
efecto contra quien haya adquirido, de buena fe y para eu uso
personal, un ejemplar 0 copia il!citamente reproducidoa.
Articulo, 120. Las medidas cautelarea indicadas en el articulo
precedente, podran eer acordadaa en las causas penales que ee oi9an
por infracci6n de los derechos reconocidos en la presente Ley, sin
perjuicio de cualquier otra establecida en la legislaci6n proceeal
penal.
cApiTULO 11
lnfracciones y Sancionea
Articulo 121. S~rA Penado co~ priai6n' c;le. treinta (30) dras a
,dieciocho (18) meses todo aq~el que,sin autorizaci6n:
,1. Emplee 'in~ebid~ente e1 t£tu~o de una ,obra, con infracci6n del
Articulo ~~,.
2. Realice u~a. ~i,ficaci6~, de l~ o.bra. en viqlaci6n de 10
t :
diepue~t~ en e1,Articu10 37 •
• z' :
3. Cemunique public~~nte, en contumaci~, por cualquier forma 0
procedimiento, en violaci6n de los Art!culos 36 y 30, en forma
original <;> transformada~ l.ntegra 0 parcialmente, una obra
protegida por la presente Lay.
4. Utilice ejemplar~s de la obra, con infracci6n d,el derecho
establecido en el ArtIculo 40, ,incl~Bive la distribuci6n de
fonog~ama8 ilegltimamente reproducidoe.
5. Retranemita, par cualquier med~o altimbrico 0 inalRmbrico, en
violaci6n del Articulo 95, una emiei6n de radiodifusi6n.
6. Reproduzca ,o.dietribuya, siendo cesiona~io 0 licenciatatio
autorizado por. el . titular del respectivo derecho, un mayor
numeto de ejemplares que el permitido por e1 contrato: 0
• '. I
comunique, reproduzca 0 distribuya la obra deepu~s de vencido 40 ~.P/N/l1P AN/C/1
Page 41
Gaccta Oftclal, mJercoles·1 0 de agosto de 1994
el plazo de .. autOl;"izaci6n que. se haya convent.do '. .. ..
7. Se atribuya falsamente la cualidad de tit~lar,
deriva~a, d~ alguno de 108 derecllo8 reconocido8
y mediante eBa indebida atribuci6n obtenga que. la autoridad
judicial 0 a.dministrativa ,::ompetente 8uspenda la comunicaci6n,
l;"epr.qducci6n 0 distribuci6n de la obra, interprct.J.c1611 0
producci6n.
8. Presente declaraciones faleas de certificaciones de ingres.os,
repertorio utilizado, identificaci6n de 109 autore8; autoriza-
'ci6n obtertida;' numero de ejemplares' 0 cua:lquier otra adultera-
ci6n de'datos susceptiblss,de·causar perjuicio'a cualquiera de
108 titulares de derech08 p'rotegidos por la' presente Ley.
La sanci6n a que se'~efiere e~ presente articulo se aplicara
de acuerdo con la falta' ~6~etida' segun·lo-establezca. l~ autoridad
competent':e, siguiendo 10s procedimiiO!l1tos correspondientes.
Articulo 122. La pena sera de dos (2) a cuatro (4) aoos de prisi6n
para quien:
1. Reproduzca, con' infracei6n de los Artf.culos 36 y 39, ·en. forma
driginal; . 0 modfficaCla, integta 0 par~i~lmerite, obras
protegidas por la presente Ley,
2. Introdl1zca' eh el pais,' almacene, distribuya ,., 'exporte," venda,
alquile 0: ponga en eit-eulaci6n 'de' cualquier otr'a manera,
'reproduecibnea 'ilicitas de las 'obras protegiaas,
3. Inseriba en el Registro de Derecho de Autor y Dereehos Conexos
una obra, interpretaci6n 0 producci6n ajenas, como si fueran
propias, 0 como de persona diatinta del verdadero autor,
artista 0 productor.
A~.ticulo, 1.23 .. En la misrtlCl. p~na. prevlsta en el.articulo precedente,
ineurrira todo' aquel que', sin autorizaci6n., reproduzea 0 copie, por
eucilquier medio,' la aetuaci6n de un int~rprete 0 ejecutaI).te, un
fonograma,.o una emiBi6n·de·radiodifuBi6~,·en.todo 0 en parte: 0
que' introduzca en· e1. pais.· .almacene, distr:i,buya. exporte, venda, IP/N/l/PAN/C/!
Page 42
NI 22.598
alquile 0 ponga en circulac16n de cualquier otra
reproduccionea 0 capias. ." ; /. __
Articulo 124'. Las penaa previstas en 10s articu10s anteriores se
aumentaran·en'una tercera (1/3) parte cuando loa delitos senalados
se~n cometido8 reepecto de una obra; interpretaci6n 0 producci6n no
destinada a la divulgaci6n, 0 con usurpaci6n de paternidad, 0 con
informaci6n, mutilaci6n u otra modificaci6n que ponga en peligro au
dignidad 0 la reputaci6n de alguna de laa personas protegidas par
la ley~
Articulo 125:, Como pena accesoria, el Juez impondra al responsable
de cualquiera de los delitos indicados en el presente Capitula, una
multa de mil balboas (8/, 1,000.00) a veinte mil balboaa
(B/.20,OOO.OO),'de:acuerdo con l~ graved~d de la infracci6n.
Articulo 126. En todos 'los;' delitos previstos en el presente
Capitulo, e1 proceeo ee iniciara a petici6n ~e parte interesada.
TiTULO XIII
Ambito de apli~aci6n de" la L~y
Articulo 127. E~tan aometidag a la presente .Ley laa. obraa.~el
ingenio cuando el autor 0, por 10 menos, ~no de los coautores sea
panamefio o' eet~, dOm'iciliado en ',la, Republica; 0 si independiente
mente de la hacionalidad: 0' dornicilio del 'autor, hayan sido publi
cadas en Pa~~, po~ prirnera'vez, 0 publi~adae en Panama'dentro de
loe treinta (30): dfaa sig'uie'ntes"a ab primera publicaci6n. '
Laa ob,ras ~e arte incorppJ;adae perman~nt;.emente a un ~rimueble
situado en Panama •. se eq~.iparan a laa publicadaa.
Loe apatr!das'refugiadoe y loe de nacionalidad controverti,da.
quedan equiparadoB, aloe naciomiles del· Eetado donde tengan eu
domicilio.
Articulo 128.:: .I.,a~ obras del ingenio, no co~pt;~ndidaa en el articulo
precedente" estaraIl' pro~egi~s :confortTl~, a l,as conyen<;:ion.ea, interna
cionales' que, la ',Repiiblica 'haya.' celebrado ;0, celebre en. el., futuro.
A falta de: 'convenci6n' aplicable, dichas, obras' gozaran' de la
protecci6n eecabiecida- en la presence Ley, siempre que e1 Estado' al IP/NIIIPAN/CI 1
Page 43 ,:' c
l<\': "
42 Oaceta Odclal. mlcreoles lOde agosto de I . ii'
cual pertenezca el
autores panarneftos. e a loa
Articulo 129. Las interpretacionea 0 ejecuciones artisticas, las
producciones fonograficas y las emisiones de radiodifusi6n prote
gidas por el Titulo VIII estan sometidas a la presente Ley, siempre
que el titular del respectivo derecho sea panameno 0 este domici
liado en la Republica, 0 cuando, independientemente de la naciona
lidad 0 domicilio del titular, dichas interpretaciones, produccio
nes 0 emisiones hayan sido realizadas en Panama 0 publicadas en
esta por primera vez 0 dentro de los treinta (30) dfas siguientes
a su primera publicaci6n.
Las disposiciones de la ultima parte del Articulo 127 y del
Artfculo 129 son aplicables alas producciones extranjeras y demas
derechos conexos reconocidos en esta Ley.
Articulo 130. TITULO XIV
Disposiciones Transitorias y Finales
C~pfTULO I
Disposiciones Transitorias
Los derechos sabre las obras que no gozaban de
tutela conforme a la Ley anterior por no haber sido registrados,
gozaran automaticamente de la protecci6n que concede la presente
Ley, sin perjuicio de los derechos adquiridos por terceros con
anterioridad a, la entrada en vigor de esta ultima, siempre que' se
trate de utilizaciones ya realizadas 0 en curso a la fecha de
promulgaci6n de esta Ley.
No seran l£citas, en consecuencia, aquellas utilizaciones no
autorizadas de esas obras, bajo cualquier modalidad reservada,al
autor 0 a sus derechohabientes, cuando se inicien una vez promul-
gada la presente Ley. IPINIl/PANICI 1
Page 44
Art!cu',L,O 131. Los derechoB patrimonialeB sobre
por autores fallecidos anteB de entrar en vigor esta
la duraci6n de ochenta (80) anos prevista en la ley.
Articulo 132. Las entidades autorales y demas organizaciones de
titulares de derechos reconocidos ~n esta ley, que ya existan como
organizaciones de gesti6n colectiva de los' derecho"S de socios 0
repreeentadoB, tenpran un plazo de un (1) afio, a partir del
eatabl"ecimiento de la Direcci6n deneral de Derecho de Autor, para
adaptar sus documentos constitutivos, estatutos y. normas de
funcionamiento alas disposiciones contenidas en el Titulo XIX, en
10e Artl.culos 102 y 108 Y para solicitar la autorizaci6n de
funcionamiento, diepuesta en los Articulos 97 y 109 numeral 4 de la
presente Ley.
Articulo 133. El 6rgano Ejecutivo dictara las normas reglamenta-
rias para la debida ejecuci6n de esta Ley.
CAPlTULO II
Disposici6n· Final
Articulo 134. Esta Ley subroga el Tftulo V del Libro IV del C6digo
Administrativo y deroga lae demas disposiciones que le sean
contrarias.
Artl.~ulo 135. Eeta Ley·entrara en vigencia a partir del primero de
enero de 1995.
COMUNIQUESE Y PUBUQUESE
Doda en la cludad de Panam6, a 105 29 OIOS del mes de Junla de mR navecte.ntos noventa y cuotro.
EL PRESlDENTE, EL SECRETARIO GENERAL a.J.
ARTURO VAllARlNO MARlO LASSO·
ORGANO EJECunvO NAClONf\I-- PRESIDENClA DE LA REPUBlICA.
PANAMA, REPUBLICA DE PANAMA, 8 DE AGOSTO DE 1994.-
GUlllERMO ENDARA GAUMi.\NY
Presldente de la RepUblica GERMAN VERGARA G.
MJnistro de Educacl6n IP/NIIIPAN/CI 1
Page 45
44 Oaceta' Oftdal. mlcrcoles lOde agosto de 1994
AVISOS Y EDICTOS
(~ AVISOS COMERCIAlES )
AVlfIJ AVISO AL PUBUCO 01 Estableelmlenlo co-Tercero publlcocl6n
AL PUBUCO POt ost9 media se avtso a merclol denomlnodo M/
Poro cumplir coo 10 esta-fodo eI pObllco en gane-S Y CARNC. FUNG QUI AVISO AL PUBLICO
blacldo en. 91 Arffcuto n7 rol que 10 soclodod on6-ublcodo on Borriodo Erso Por oste medlo yc. YIU
delC6dgodoComerclo. nlmo OP£l!AoORA DE ES. # G-20 Cooag. Padrego!. WAHHO.vor6n.panomo
ha comprado 01 set\or KO TACIONES, S. A. (QP{SA) eludod de PanomO .. eI 1'10 naclonollzado. porta'
KION YAU HO. var6n. proplelorladelestoblecl. Sr. wo K1unlon ChorIg F. dordelac~dulooolcJen. CONTf~TODE
mayor de edOd. con c&-mlento cornerclal 'ESTA. con c~. PE-9-989 VC-ride tldad personal No. N-17. COMPRA Y VENTA
duto de Idoot1dad parso-CION SHEll DE SAN AN· el eslabloclrnlento 0 10 e 17.vadno de la ckJdod Yo.llEllRAN GARClA.po
nol N' N·17-414, 91 osto-lONlO"omporodoconla Slo. Korn Nun ChOY5°O daCol6n.comunlcoqu~ nornaoo.moyordeedad
bleclmlanto comorclal IlcenclacomerclolTlpo'S' c~. N·I6-23 con 10 tscrl· ha comprodo 0 a! sel'\or c'xlliodo9-IOI.1636,Pro
donomlnado A8ARRO' conroglmo45150lnscrtto turodGcomPloyv~,to# RlCARDO HO BATlSTA ai Dletotlo de Conlfno"lot
TERIA YCARNICERlA YAU en 91 Tom0251. Fo!lo445. 6180 dol 26 da juliO de estobledmlonto corn,jj- i\mlg~'.ublcodaenSon
HO, ublcodo en Colla T. Aslonto N' 1 del Reglmo 1994 • , clal dooornlnado "11,1..-fcol"cif.CO de VOIGgUOS,
Nuevo VerannJo, # I~ 127, Comerdal del Mlnlstarto NofarfoQ,Jlnta dol Ckcul· RROrERJA V llODEGA SAN con Ucoocla ComEll'clcl
Cooeglmlento Amella D. da Comercio e Industoos fo. JUDAS TAOEO. !ltuodo.et'! Tlpo '0' No. 23542. certfft·
da Icoza.Son Mlguellto. ha aldo vendldo a la 10-Kam NunChoy 10 Barrlado Son Judas coquofihevendldodlcha
Alontamente, clodad SEIfVICEN fRO TL•319 A98.55bl, loo Todoo. eorroglmlento 00 ConIine 0/ ror,or EULAllO
CARlOS JUAN VAU CUEllAR. S. A. medlonta oreora pu ,cae Collva. provlllclo do Co· O".RC1A ROORfGUfl.Con
MERINO EsCfllurO PUblica N' 5.676 16n. cMulo de Identldad No.
c.xl: 6-14-445 de 16 dajullode 1994. AVl'!i:> Col6n.29dejullod.J 1994 9-00-.16:2. po{ 10 qve doo·
L· 319A24A7 . La pubIIcacl6n da osta Para dor curnpllmlooto a Ylu Watl Ho 0.:; hoy en odelonte y en
Tarcera pubncacl6n ovlso tlooe coma pr0p6-10 que e~obloce &i 0(11· COd No. N-17-817 10 sucoslvo 01 nuevo pro·
-silo dot cumpllf1'~ooto a culo 7n daI C6dlgo do L· 319.776.12 p:atorto os al OCl'or ontes
AVI'¥:) At PU8LICO 10 estoblecfdo en el ort1· Comerclo, pot esto ma· Tereero publlcaelon menclonodo.
Por esta m6dla soovlso a roo 7n da! C6dlgo 00 dlo se hoes aabe! quo cl BELTRAN GARCIA
todo 91 p(Jbllco en gene_ Comorclo. establedmlento comer- AV1SOS Voo<iodor
rat quo la loclodod an(}-L· 319.264.19 clol danom!nodo ESTA· Yc MARCOS F. CORRO EULAUO GARCtA
nlma OP£IlADORA DE ES. TercEll'a publ!cocl6n CION ESSO·VEI!AGUAS M. con ctkjulo 3-95-929 RODRIGUEZ
TACIONES, S. A. (OPEM) ha sldo vandldo 0 la so-hagoconstarquoholros- C~prador
proPletaooOOlestoblod. AVlfIJ cledad. COMERCIAlES pasodoslnogoclodam! L·123.92J
mlento comerclal 'ESTA. Yo. GIUSEPI'INA IUGUO- CHIMi\N, S. A.. Plop!edod FIBERPLAC;; a lorcera p,ibr,cocI6n
CION. SHEll [)£ SAN AN. NECASSINO,concedula ~vt~·~5~~~O 1994. lasoclodaddooomlrxlljQ -
TONIO'amporodoconla No. 6-292-36. cancelo la l-319.542.82 FIBER PLJ,C£, S. It.. el cuol
IIcenclaeomerclalTlpo'B' Ucancia Comerclol t1pa Tercarapubllcacl6n ostO ublcodo en la clu-Porodarcumpllmlentoal AVlfIJ
con reglslro 36709lnscrtto B No. 50062.potventa del dad 00 Co16n. Mculo No. 777, noltnca.
en 91 Tomo 169, Fo!103n. negoclo denomlnado AVISO AL PUBUCO l· 319.931.89 mO$ quo homo! oblon/·
A I' t I del R 1st JOYEJIIAOOMINGOM2.al Paracump.1rconloosta· _To_r_cor_a~pu_bl_lc_a_c_16_n __ dodolaCompoNoSER' s en o. ag fO sol'lor ANTOOIOG£I!AROO bl Id 91 ArtlClJ! 777 VlCIOS LA CONCOROlA.
Comerdal del Mlnlsterlo IWOUON£ CASSINO Esta ec 0 en 0 A VI SO S. A., 91 estoblecirnlooto
do Corrierdo e IndustrIos onunclo e'poro dor et' J~-del C6d1go de Comerclo, h "d dldo a la so- • "r hocomPlodoalosor'lora De conformldad con 10 comerclal denominado
o 0 ven pllmlanto 0 10 que eslo· DAYSIOOTlZDESANCHEZ ostobloddoenelort'.<:ulo HEtADERlA Y PANAOERlA
elodad ESTACION SAN bloce el articulo No. 777 con cMula do Id tldod 777 del C6digo do eo.. CONCORDIA. ublcodo ANTONIO,s.A.medlonle delC6df""doComerclo. 9 en 12 Escrltura PUblica N9 4 7S6 l. 316 21,S-57 personal N 4-100-2070. eI mOfclo.hagoconstorqlX) entro los Collos 11 y
I • .. oslobloclmlento corner-ho vondldo a 10 sor"lorlta, Avenlda /lfTladorGuerre-
de 20 de junlo de 994. Tercara publleacl6n clol denomlnado LAVA. Ver6lilcoAmlntaVernoza ro No. 11.157. cludod de
La publlcocl6n de esto MA neo J>tA.ZA REAl.. ubi. Morchant con c6dula 00 Col6n.
ovlso t1eno como pr0p6- A VlfIJ AL PUBUCO cado en Colle62. CoffOS-ldentldad personal # Pe· . ALFREDO REID MAGA
slto dar cumpllmlooto a Para dor cumpllmlooto a qullla.Caso Nt2.SanFron- 9· 11· 13. 91 nogoclo danc- ~dula No. 3-55-133
10 ostablocldo en el artl· 10est1pu1adoonelArffcu- clsco. mlnodo 'PlAZA VIDEO Comprador
cuto 777 del C6dlgo 00 10 #777 del C6dlgo do Atentomente. CLUB'. ublcodo en Coilo Co!6n. 3 do ogosto do
Comerclo. Comerclo. so hoeo wber JOSE lSAlEAS LEE ARIAS Qulnla da Sontiago con 1994
L· 319.286.63 01 p(Jbllco en gonerol quo CED.: 6·230-942 la IIconelo tIP<> '0'125232 l· 320.240.22
Tercara publlcacl6n por oSClllura raspectlva. L· 319.701.57 modlanto documonto Sogundo pubncacl6n
EDlCTO
EMPf.AZA TOOIO
La susento Asesora Legal
dol Mlnlstorlo de Corner
clo e Industrlas, an w ca·
IIdad do Funclonalio Ins
tructor on 10 prosente
demanda d& cancelo·
cl6n contra 91 Cer'~flea·
dodeReglstroNo.05~m7
corro$pondlenta 0 la
moreo MIu.ENNIUM.o so
IIcltud de porte Intarasa·
do v on usa de sus facul
todes legolos; par medio
del presente Edlcto:
EMPlA.ZA:
AJ Representante lo
.gol do 10 sociodod ( EDICTOS EMPLAZATORIOS )
PANAFARMACO, S. A.
cuyo poradoro se dos
conOC9, para que
doolro del termlr'lO de
diaz (10) dos conlo
dos a portlr de 10 Oltl·
ma publlcocl6n dol
Plesento EelIcto.com·
parOlCO par sf 0 par
modIo da opodOfodo
a hocer valer sus do
roche» en 10 presenta
dernonda do COl'1ce
locl6n contra eI Cert1.
ficodo de ~Imo No.
05J327 en close 9; co
rrespondlente 0 la
morca MIL .. mu·
NNIUM. promovldo
porlosocladodGArES ENERGY PRODUCTS
INC., 0 trov6s de sus
opoderodos espocla
los la ttrma foronsa
ARIAS. FABREGA 8<
FABREGA.
So le advlerta 01 om·
plozodo que de no
cornporoeOf dontro
doltormlnoconespon·
dlonle SO 10 nomblOr6
un defonsor do ouson
ta con quloo $6 conH
nuor6 elJulcio hosto el
final. .
Por 10 tonto sa f1Ja 01 Pia·
sento edieto 00 lugar pO
bllco y visible da 10 Direc
el6n 00 AsesOlfa legal dol
Mlnlstorlo do Comorclo 0 Industries. hoy 5 do jullo lercora pubncocl6n
da 1994; y coplos del mls·
mo SO t10nen 0 dlsposl· EDlCTO
cl6n do partelnterosoda EMPf.AZATORIO
pora su publlcocl6n. ElsuscrttoAsoSCflegoldel
lCDA. elIZABETH Mlnlsterlo do Comerclo 0
M. DE PIN f. Industrias. en su calldad
Fundonorto Instructor de Funclonarlo Instructor
ESTHER MO.LOPErS. en 01 presento lutclo 00
Socrolorlp Ad·Hoc oposlcl6n 0 la 6ol1c1tud do
MINISTERIO DE COMER· roglstro do la morco do
CIO E INDUSTRIAS f6b11co 'TENTACION', a
DIRECCION DE ASESORIA sollcltud de parto Intera·
LEGAL soda y en uso de $US to·
tS Copla Aut()n~ca de su cultooos legoles.por ma·
orlglnol . dlo dol presente Edlcto:
Panama. 5 de Jullo de EMPLAZA'
1994 AI Rnpre.""ta~te La:-Diroctor v """ •
L-319.219.04 gol de la socledad lPINI lIPAN/CI 1
Page 46.
NI 22.598 Oaceta Oficlal. mlercoles lOde agosto de 199
COMERCIAL CRESSI~' susfacllltcideslegolos.por truetor on la presente en la prosente demo
OA, S. A., euyo para-media del presente Edlc-demanda de oposlclOn decancelaclOncontrael
doro so dosconoco, to: N' 3038 0 la sollcltud do Corttncado de Reglstro
para 'que dentro del EMPlAZA: reg/stro de la marco "ES-No. 058355. correspon-
Mrmlno de dez (10) N RGPresentante Le-CAPE', a soJlcJtud de par-dlenl e a 10 marca "PIERRE
dlascontadosapartlr gal de la socledod telnteresadayenusode NICOLA', 0 soIlcltud de
de 10 ultimo publlca- JACKYJAC,S.A.,cuyo susfocultadeslogales.por partelnteresadayenuso
ciOn del presente Edc- paradorasedescono- medlo dol presente Edlc-de sus facultades lega-
to. eomparOlea por si ce. para quo donlro 10: los. por modlo dol proson-
o pO( medlo de apo-' del Mrmlno de dlez EMPlAZA: le Edlclo:
derado Cl hacer valer (10) dlos contodos 0 AI Reprosenlanle le- EMPlAZA:
susdereehosonel pre-porllr de la ull1mo pu-001 do la scelodod AI Roprosonlanlo La-
sonle julclo de oposl~ bllcaclOn dol preson- •• I ciOn No. 3090 contra le Edlcla. comparez- SPORT MUI~O Al; S.A., gal de la, socledad
I 11 It dd Ifr ca porsl0 pormedlo cuyo paradero se des-PERFUM'S INTERNA· a so cue reg s 0 canoce. para quo CIONAl,S.A.cuyopa-
N'061810."cIose3;co- de opoderado 0 ho-dentrodelMrmlnodo raderosedesconoce,
rrespondlente 0 la cervolersus dereehos die' (10) -"as canto' - tr d-' marc a de fabrlca ,enlaprosenledoman- ~ uo para que,den ° ""
'TENT' AC',ON' ,', do de' canceloclOn dos a partlr de la ulll-lermlno do dlez (10)
• promo- ma publlco"cl6n dol dI c I dos partl vrdo por la socledod contra el Cartlflcaoo I Eol I as on oar
SMITHKLlNE 8EECHAM qeReglstroNo,0J5241 presen €I c o.com- de la Oltlma publlca-
.c'?f)tr9.1Q $~lIcltuq90 porezco por sl 0 por cl6ndolpresonleEdle-
C.ORPO!!:'t!!9!"b Q trQ- I t N~ 06 media de apoderodo 10. comparezco por si
v~s da sus apodera- reg 5 ro, 1810 en a hac~r'valer sus de- 0 p~r media de,apo-... I I 10 ~ close 30; correspon- ~ ",ot ElSpec a G~ "f. olent~ tl la mori::6 r9chos en al presanle derodo 0 haoer voler
ma forense JIMENEZ: 'JElW BeltX-; promo- lulclo de oposlcl6n a susderechosenlapre-.
MOLlN0 Y MORE NO. v!do por ,1asocledod la sollcltud de reglstro sante demanda de
So le advlorta 01 em-HEIlMAN GOEtn2 OMOn corrospon- cancoloclOn dol Cot-,
plazado que de no 'CANDY ~OMPt;.NY dlente a 10 morca IIrtcado de Reglslro
camporecer denlro INC ... a ttav~s da su ·ESCAPE". ptopLiesto No.058355enclase 14;
delterrnlnocorrespon- epoderqdo espeCloI porlosbcledodJONA- correspondienta 0'10
dlente ~e la nombrora LlCDO. 'ROLANDO' THAN MARTlN,INC .. 0 matco PIERRE NICO~
un defensor deal-lsen- CANDENADO N. traves de sus apode- LA.lncoado por la so:
te con qulen sa,cont!- S I dv!' rt I' lodos espoclolos clodad TAXOR;,INC.,.
nuora eljulclohasla el e ea, , a e, a em-GADELOFF Y ASOCIA- a traves de su apode.
final. plazado qu.o de no DOS, IOdo ospoclolla ftrm,a
POI' 10 tonlo se flja el pre-' comparecor donlro Se 10 odvlorlo 01 em-forense CAJIGAS &
sonlo odlcio on lugar pO-dolterrnlnocorrospon- plazadoque do no CONSOCIOS.
bilcoyvlslbledelaDlrec- dlenlo solo nombrara comparocor donlro Se le advlerle 01 em-
clOndeAseso~ciLogaldol un de(onsbr de ouson- doltermlnocorrespon- plozodo que de no
Minlsterlo de Comerclo e ta con qulon se conI!- dlonte se le nombrora comparecer ,d!3nlro Industrlas. hay 19 de lullo nu ora eljulclo hasta el un dofensor de auson- dellormlnocorrespon-
d 1994 I sdi ml tlnol.· to eon qulen se conN- dl'ent,o se le n' o· m' brar .... e ;ycopo. 0 s-Porlo'Ianlosonjaelpro- nuaraeljulclohaslae! u
mo so tlenen 0, dlsposl~ sente ediclo en lugor JJO-final. undoronsord9auson~'
ciOn de porte Inlor9socla b I Por 10 lanto se fija el pre-te con qulen se cont!-pora $\.I publlcacl6fl': IIco y v slble de la Dlrec-santa adlcto en lugar pu-nucir6 aljulelo haste er
ASCENCION I. BROCE ciOn de Asesorfa Legal dol . bllco y visible do la Dlree-final. "
Funclonorlo Instruclor Mlnlsterlo de Comerclo 0 clOndeAsosorfaLegoldol Par 10 tanlo se flJa el pre-
NORlS C. DE CASTILLO .: Industrlas. hoy 26 de jullo Mlnisterlo de Comerclo e sente edlcto en lugar pO-
Secretarla Ad-Hoc' de 1994; Y coplos del mls-Industrlas. hoy 22 de Julio bllca yvlslble' de la Dlrec
MINISTERIO DE COMER- mo se tlenen a dlsposl-de 1994 y c.aplas del mls-ci6n de Asesorlci legal del
CIO E INDUSTRIAS . , ., cl6n ~e parte Intoresacla mo sa l1enen a dl~posl-Mlnlslerlo do Comerclo 0
DIRECCION DEASESORIA"para'su pubncaci.On. ciOn de parte Ir:tleresada Induslrles. hoy'2O de Jullo
lEGAL MILO CORNEJO C. para su publlcaclOn. de 1994;ycoplasdelm!s-
Es Copla AUtenllca de su ,Director de Asesoria lICDA. ILKA CUPAS mo sa Ilenen a dlspost-
orig'nal '. lagal DE OLARTE '
I n funclonorlo Instructor cl6n d9 porte,lnteresado Ponam6. 19 da juno de ESTHE" Ma. lOPEZ S.
1994 Seerstarla Ad-Hoc GINA B. DE FERNANDEZ para su publlcaclOn.
Secralarla Ad-Hoc MILO CORNEJO C.
Dlroctor' MINISTERIO DE CO MER-MINISTERIO DE COMER- Funclonarlo Instructor
l-318 897 62 CIO E INDUSTRIAS CIO E INDUSTRIAS ESTHER Mo. lOPEZ S.
Tsrce;a pUbllcaclOn DIRECCION DE ASESORIA DIRECCION DE ASESORIA Secrstorla Ad-Hoc' .'
~.;..;;.;..:..::~..;..,;'-'-;.;.;...- ·LEGAL. 'LEGAL.. . MINISTERIO DE COMER
Es Copla Autentica do su Es Copla Autentlca do su CIO E INDUSTRIAS EDICTO
EMPlAZATORI9
El suscrlto Asesor legal del
Mlnlsterlo de Comercio €I
lndu$lrtas. en su caUdad
do Funclonono Instructor
en la prosente deiT)anda ~~'~~a; 26 do )ullo de ~~~'~~6. 22 de )uJlo do DIRECCION DE ASESORIA
1994 1994 LEGAL
Director Director - Es Copla Aul,entlca de su
l-319.889.64 l-31960144 original.
Tarcera pubncoClOn iarceia ~ncaclOn . ~~~4am6, 20 de juno de
dacanceloclOncontrael EDICTO
CertlncoC/Q de Reglstro EM~)ORIO
No. 035241. 'correspOn- losusCtltQ Asesora legal
dlente ala m'arca "JEUV· de! Mlnlsterio de Comor
BEU Y", a solcltud de pa-cloe IndUstrlas; On su con
te Inferesoda y el'ruso de :dlcl6n de FOOclonOrlo hs-fDICTO ' Director
EMPlAZATORIO l-320.380. i3 .,
E!svscr!toAseS()(l~aldel Segunda pubncocl9n '
Mlnlsterlo de comerclo e ' EDICTO
Industrlas. en su calldad EMPlAZATORIO'
de FunClon~:JlIO Instructor la $UsCrlta Asesoro legal
EDICTOS AGRARfOS ) EMPlAZA:
AI Ropresenfante le
gal de la socledad
BOSTON INVESTMENT
ENTERPRISES, CORP.
cuyo paradero se des
conoca. para que
· donlro dOllermlno de
diez (10) dlas conta-,
doe a pcrt1t de ia 6iiI
ma publica ciOn. del
pres~hte Edlcto. c9fT1-
parozca par si .,0 por
media de,!JpoderOdo
a hacor valel sus do
roches on 01 prosonte
· julclo de opo~cl6n a
la sollcltud de Reglstro
No, 064557 correspon
dlente a la" malca 4
EVE~. prcipuesto por 10
socledod'ALOE VEIiA
OF AMERICA, INC •.• a
trovlls do sus opodo
rod os . especlales
ARIAS. F.AO.REGA Y
FABREGA. '
Se le acMerte, 01 em-,
plazodo que de no
comparecor dentro
doll6rrnlnocorrespon
dlente se le nO(l1Prara
un defensor de ausen
fe con qulen se 'conft
numb eljulclo hasto et
nnol." . . .
Por 10 tanto, se flJa ,el pre
sonte edlcto'ElD lugar po.
bllco yylslble de la OIrec-'
ciOn de Asesorfa legal del
Mlnlsleno de ComercJo €I
Industries. hay 26 de Jullo'
de' 1994: Y capias del mls
mo se tlenen a dlsposI
'ciOn de parte Interesacla
para su publlcaclOn.
. ROSAURA
GONZAlEZ MARCOS
· FuncJonorlo Instructor
GINA B. DE FERNANDEZ .
Sacrelatlo Ad-Hoc
MINISTERIO DE COMER
CIO E INDUSTRtAS
DIRECCION DEASESORIA
LEGAL
Es Copla Autenllca do su
onglno\ ,
Ponam6. 28 de juRo de
,1994 '
DirectOr
l· 320.249.~ ,
SeglXXla pu,bllcocl6n .
.MINISTERIO DE ' Sustanclodor de la Refor-voclna del correglmlento coclOn a titulo oneroso de oslo Plo~a. cuyos
1>ESARROllO: ma Agrarla;deI M1n1sterlo' de CABECfRA. OIstrtto de una Parcela estatal Ilnderos 500; . " . .
AGROPECVARIO de Desorfollo Agrope- BOQUETE;porfadordela ad)udcable~conl.Oasu- NOmE:lU9ocloilkJdade
DEPAATAMENTOoe COOIIoenChlrIqU.oIpO-'cMAadeIdenHdadPer· perflele de 7 HOI. + Aivorado, .' '.,
REFORMAAGRARIA blco. ' sonafN'4-134-197.haso- 9513.16 M2.lbIcada en SUR: AQel Arlatlqel
REG/ON-l-CHIRIQU! HACESABER:' '!lcltodo a la Reforma MATA DEL FRANCES Co-. SerTocln ,.
EDtCrO N' 155-93· OveellGl"lor(o)<PRAClE· Agforla. rnedante Solid-rreglmlento de CABECE~ ESTE: Carretera aOavld
El Sulerlto Funclonorlo LA P£RlCAUU DE ARAUZ. . fuel N' 4-31365.10 ~-RA. OIstrtto de BOQUETE· OESTE;MoNJef[)OZToyIor IP/N/l/PAN/C/1
Page 47
i,: ....
Oaceta Oftclal. mlercotes 10 de agosto de 1994 598
Para 101 etactos legol95 ~ d~ la Ult1mo pWU.
se ttJa eI prewnte Edlcto coclOn.
on ~QOf 1I1a1b1e do osto Dodo en DovId 0 los 24
Daspocho. en et dolo dlosdelmesde marzode
Alcaldlo del Dlstrlto de 1993.
Boquoto 0 en la Corro.. ING. GALO ANTONIO
gfcU1a de Cabac9ra y AOOSEMENA
copla del mlsmo so entre.. Funclonorlo
oorOn oIlnlemsadO para SUslanclodot
quo 10 hogo pubncor en DILIA F. DE AACE
IosOl'ganosdepubllcldod Secretorla Ad-Hoc
correspondlente. tal L· 261A92.54
como 10 ordeno aI Arl1cu-Unlco PubllcoclOn R
10 108 del C6dgo Agro
rlo. Este Ed!cto tendrOlX1O
I/lgencla 00 quince (15)
dlOI 0 part1r de la Ultima
pubUcoclOl"t.
Dodo en Davfd a los 24
dlosdelmasoo marzode
1993.
iNG. GALO ANTONlO
AROSEMENA
Funclonarlo
Sustanclador
OILIA F. DE ARCE
Secratarkl Ad·Hoc
L· 261.581.06
Unlca publlcoclOl"t R
MINISTERIO DE
DESARROLLO
AGOOPECUARIO
DEPARTAMENTO DE
REr-oRMA AGRARIA
REGION -1· CHIRIQUl MINISTERIO DE
DESARROLLO
AGOOPECUARIO
DEPARTAMENTO DE
REFORMA AGRARIA
REGION ·1 .. CHIr/lQU1
EDICTO NO 152·93
El Suscrlto Funclonarlo
SustonclodOr de la Refor·
maAgrorla.del Mlnlsterlo
do De501l01l0 Agrope·
cuorlo M Chlrfqul. 01 pU
blico.
HACESABER:
Que 01 sol\or (a) JUAN
SANTAMARIA 8ATISTA. ve ..
clno dol correglmlonto de
CABECERA. Dlstrlto de
BUGABA. portadOr de 10
c6du1o de Identldad Per·
sonal N" 4·100 .. 768. ha so-
EDICrO N" 154·93 IIcltado a la Roforma
El SUscrlto Funclonallo Agrar!a. medlanto Solid·
Sustanclador de 10 RB/or-1I.Jd N 4-22813.loodjud·
ma Agrarla. del Mln!stono caclOn a tftulo oneroso
de Oesorrollo Agrope- do 1X10 Porcala as/otol
cuorlo en Chlrlqt/.. 01 po.. adjudlcable. con uno su-
bnco perf/cle de 0 HOs. +
'HACE SABER: 2.492.51 M2. ublcada en
. LA MATA DE BUGABA Co·
Que eI senor (0) IGNA-rreglmlonto da CABECE-
CIO DELGADO FRANCO. RA. Ofstrlto de BUGABA
vacino del correglmlento de esla Provlncla. Cl/yos
de CABECERA. Distrlto de Ilnderos son: .
BAR'U. portadOl delo c(r NORTE:Gllberto Plno
0010 dG ldentldod Perso-SUR: Collej6n do 4 metros
nol N" 4-142-2639. ha soli.. de oncho
cltodOalaReformaAgro- ESTE: Carrotera
ria. medlante SoUcltud N9 OESTE: Rio Mula
4-29057.loactudlcocI0n Para las efectos legales
a tftulo onerosa de lXlO se fUa el presente Edlcto
Porceloestotalo~udlco- en IUgor I/lslble de este
ble.conuoo$Uperficlede [)e$pacho. en al de kl o H6s. + 5.541.76 M2. ubi.. Alcaldla del Distrllo da
coda en AGUACATON Bugoba 0 en 10 Corre
Correglmlonto de CASE· g1dur1a de Cabacaro y
CERA •. Dlstrlto do BArN copladelmlsmo$oentre
do esta Provlncla. cuyos gor6n oIlnterosado para
Ilnderos son: Que 10 haga pubncar en
NORTE: Camlno y nnea IosOl'ganosdepubllcldod
f~r(ea a Ma!aguato correspondlente. tal
SUR: Santos Mora/es como 10 ordena eI Artfcu-
ESTE: Santos Morales 10 108 del C6dgo Agro·
OESTE: RIo Colorado Vkr rlo. Este Edlcto tondrCluno
)0 V1genela de quince (15)
Po'a lo! afoeto.s logale! dlos a part1r de 10 UltIma
W !'la el presente Edlcto ptbllcocl6n.
en lugar vlslble de osto DodO en Davld 0 las 23
Dospacho. en eI de la dlasdelmesdG morzooo
Alcoldlo del Dlsltlto de 1993.
Boru 0 an la CorrogldJrlo ING. GAlO ANTONIO
do Cabeeara y copla AOOSEMENA
del mlsmo sa entregor6n Funclonarlo
ollnteresodo para que 10 Sustonclodor
hoga public or en /os 61-DILIA F. DE AACE
gonos de publlcJdad co-Secretarla Ad·Hoc
rresponciento. tol como L· 261.408.86
10 ordona eI Art1culo 108 U~co publlcocl6n R
del C6dlgo Agrarlo. Esto
Edlcto tondrO uno vlgen
cia dB quince (15) dlas a MINISTERIO DE
DESAROOLLO AGOOPECUARIO Dlstrlto de ALANJEYporto- r :
DEPARTAMENTO DE dordelaC~ladeldoo,"-tiORTE:e.· mElI:r;>'~iU
REFORM A AGRARIA IIdad Personal N9 A$C~~ a G.
REGION ·1· CHIRlQUI 197. ho SOIlcllado a 10 R~ a OITal nn-
EDICTO NO 076-93 forma Agrarla. mad ante cas. tobadora Santa
Solldtud N' 4-30525. 10 Rlta.
El Suscrlto Funclonarlo o"udcacI6natftu!oone- ESTE: Cebodoro Santa
Sustonelodor de la Rofor· rosa de una Parcela as-Rlla. quebroda la P1ta.
maAorallo.dolMlnlslorlo 10101 OdJudlcoble. con OESTE: AnIbol Cabal/oro
de Desarrollo Agrop,?, uno superflcle de 16 HCls. Para los efaclas l&gales
cuor/o en Chlrlqll. 01 pu-+ 2252.65 M2.ublcodo an sa flja eI presenle Edlcto
blIco. LA CUCUA Correglmlen- an kJoar II1slble de eate
HACE SABER: to de DNALA. Dlstrlto de De$pOcho. en et de la
QueelsOl'lortuCIAAAAUZ ALANJE de eslo Provln· Alcaldla del Dlstrtto de
MARTINE2. veclnO del cia. cuyes IInderos son: DOlago 0 en 10 Corre
correglmlanto de CASE. NORTE;Camlno 0 Son gldu10 de Cabecera y
CERA. Distrlto de BARU. Mortfn. Benlgna GroJoles Copladalmlsmosaentre
portador de 10 cOClula de SUR: Cominoo Son Mortln. gor6n a1lnteresadO para
loontidad Personal N' 4-Romella Cooo Que 10 hoga publear en
232.997.hosollcltadOoia ESTE: Romello Coba Ios6rganosoopubllcldad
Reformo Agrarlo. me-OESTE: Victor COI'lcep- corraspondlente. tal
diante Sollclrud N' 4. cl6n comoloordenoelArt1cl."
ro978.lo odjudicoc!6n a Para los erectas legales 10 108 del COd go Agra
tlll,loOl'lefosodeuna Par. se fila et presenlo Edlcto rlo. EsteEdlctotendrOll'O
calaestatoradjudlcablo en kJgor vlslble de osle vlgenclo de quince (15)
con una superflcle de 3D Despacho. en eI de la dies 0 part1r de la OIHma
HCls. + 2828.50 M2. ublca· ArcolCllo del Dtstrlto de Publicocl6n.
do en AGUA BUENA Co-Alonje 0 on la Corro .. Dodo en Oavld a loa 14
rreglmlMto de CA8ECE- gldurla de Dlval6 V ccplo dlas del mes de rol/ de
RA. Dtsfrtto do BARU de del mlsmo sa MITegoron 1993.
esta Provlnelo. euyos lin-allnterasodo para que 10 ING. GAlO ANTONIO
doras son: hago publlcor en los 6r.. AOOSEMENA S.
NORTE:Eduordo Urrutlo. gones de publlcldod co- Funclonarlo
servldumbte rrespondento. tal como Sustonclodor
SUR: Andres Rude. Ello 10 ordene eI Art1cula 108 CECILlA G. DE CACERES
Rudo. Mlguel Horrero del C6dlgo Agrorlo. Este SecretarlQ Ad .. Hoc
ESTE: Eduardo Urrutla Edlcto tendrCl uno vlgen-L· 264.257.22
OESTE: Eduordo Urrutla. cia do qUlnc? (15) dlas a Unlca ~'UbllcacI6n R
quetxoda Agua Buena parfir de 10 ultimo publl·
Paro los efectos logales caclOn.
sa fija al prasonta Edlcto Dodo en Davld a los 14
en ~gar vlslble do esto dios dol mos de obrll de
Dospocho. en el do la 1993.
A1coldfo del Distrlto do ING. GAlO ANTONIO
SorO 0 en 10 CorrogldJrlo AOOSEMENA
de BonJ V capias del mls· Funclonarlo
mo sa entragaron 01 1nl 0" Sustonclodor
rosadoparoquelos hoga DILIA F. DE ARCE
publlcar en los 6fgano~ Secrotano Ad·Hoc
depubllcldadcorrespon- L .. 264.232.92
diEinte. tal CorrlO 10 ord&-Unlco publlcacl6n R
no al Art1culo 108 del CO·
dlgo Agrarlo. Este Edlcto
tend/Cl una I/lgonela da
quince (15) dies 0 part1r
00 la OItlmo publlcoclOl"t.
Dodo en Dovld 0 10, 4
dies del mes de fobtoro
de 1993.
L1C. FRANKUN A.
JIMENEZ
Funclonarlo
Sustanclador 0.1.
DILlA F. DE ARCE
Secratarla Ad·Hoc
L· 261.8e8.76
Ur~ca publlcaclOl"t R MINISTERIO DE
DESAROOlLO
AGOOPECUARIO
OEPARTAMENTO DE
. REFORMA AGRARIA
REGION -1 .. CHIRIQUI
EDICTO N" 186-93
El Suscrlto Funclonarlo
Sustanclador de la Rafor·
mo Agrorla. del Mlnl8terlo
de Dasorrollo Agropo·
cuorlo en Chlrlqui. 01 pO
bUco.
HACESABER: MINISTERIO DE
DESARROUO
AGOOPECUARlO
DEPARTAMENTO DE
REFORMA AGRARIA
REGION ·1· CHIRIQUI
EOICro NO 185-93
El Suscrlta Funclonarlo
Sustanclador de la Rofor·
mo Agrarlo. del Mlnlsterlo
do Dssorrollo Agrope ..
cuarlo en Chlrlqll. 01 pu
blico.
HACESABER:
Que eI sal'lor (0) EL VlRA
MU~OZ MIRANOA. vec! ..
no del corraglmlento de
LA ESmElLA. Dlstrlto de
BUGABA. portador de la
cedulo de IdMHdad Per·
scoalN"4 .. 1l6-1ool.haso
IIcltado a la Retormo
AQlorlo. medlonte SoIlcl·
tud N" 4-3 1638.10 o~cf·
caclOn 0 tltUo oneroso
de lXlO Porcela estotol
odjudcobla. con LJ)Q so
MINISTERIO DE
DESAROOLLO
AGOOPECUARIO
DEPARTAMENTO DE
REFORMA AGRARIA
REGION -1-CHIRIQUI Queelsenor(a)OlOEMAIl perflcle de 1 HOs. +
CABALlERO GONZALU. 5574.64 M2.l.t>!cada en
veclno del eorreglmlento SIOGUI ARR1BA Corrogi
de CABECERA. Dlsfrllo dG mlento de LA ESmELLA.
DOLEGA. portodor de 10 Dlstrlto de BUGABA de
cedulo de idont1dad Per.. esta Provinclo. cuyos "n
sonol N'4 .. 132· 1 039. ha so-deras son:
EDICTO N" 187-93 IIcltodo a 10 Raformo NORTE:ServldJmbrepara
Agrarlo. medlonte SoIlcl· alTos llneos
El SUscrlto Funclonarlo tud N. 4 .. 31463.10 odjud .. SUR: Servldumbte para
Sustonclador de la Rotor' coclOn a titulo onoroso olTos flncO$
maAgrarlo.dolMlnlsterlo de uno Porcela estatol ESTE:ComlnoaSlogUArri
do Desarrollo Agrop,?- adjudcoblo. con una su-be y a la Intoramellcano.
cuar/o en Chlrlqul. al pu-pertlcle do 3 H6s. + OESTE: Eugenla Mlronda.
bllco. 9103.11 M2. ublcada en Raymundo De LeOn.
HACE SABER: LOSAlGAROOBOSCorre- aenanira S6nchez
Quo el sor'lor (a) ISRAEl glmlento do CABECERA. Para los ofoctos legales
COS). RIOS. voclno del Dlstrlto de DClEGA de sa flja al presento Edlcto
corroglmlontodo DIVAtA. osta Provlncla. cuyos 1In-en kJgor vislblo de osto IPLNLlIPAN/CI1
Page 48
~ ~
Ni 22.598 ~'~nB Pill)
is> ...-:~_ ~?
Gaceta Oflclal. mlercoles lOde agosto de 1994 J l' I }
Despacho. en 01 de la
Alcaldla del OIstrlto de
Bugaba 0 en 10 COrte
gldurla do Lo (slrollo y
capla del mlsmo se entre
gar6n allnteresodo pora
quo 10 haga pUJacar en
Ios 6!gon05 do pUJacldod
correspondlonte. tal
como 10 ordena e/ ArtIcu
lo 108 dol C6dlga Agra
rlo. Este Edlclo tendr6 una
Vlgencla de quince (15)
dlas a partlr de la ultima
pubncocl6n.
Dodo en Dovld a 105 14
dlas del mes de obrll de
1993.
ING. GALO ANTONIO
AROSEMENA S.
Funelonorlo
SUstanclador
CECIUA G. DE CACERES
Secretorla Ad-Hoc
L-264.221.99
Unlca publlcacl6n R
MINISTERIO DE
DESARROLLO
AGROPECUARIO
DEPARTAMENTO DE
REFORMA AGRARIA
REGION -1-CHIRIQUI
EDlCTO NO 163-93
El Suscrlto Funclonarlo
Sustanclador de 10 Refor
ma Agrarla. del Mlnlstarlo
de Desorrollo Agrope
cuarlo en Chlrlqul. 01 pu
blico. de la QlHma pubHcacl6n.
Dodo en Dovfd a los 13
dlos del mos de abrll do
1993.
ING. GALO ANTONIO
AROSEMENA
Funclonarlo
SUstonclador
DllIA F. DE ARCE
Secretarla Ad-Hoc
l· 264.171.f:IJ
Unlca publlcacl6n R
MINISTERIO DE
DESARROLLO
AGROPECUARIO
DEPARTAMENTO DE
REFORMA AGRARIA
REGION -1-CHIRIQUI
EDICro NO 184-93
El Suscrlto Funclonarlo
Suslanclador de la Refor
ma Agrarla. del Mlnlsterlo
de Desarrollo Agropo
cuarlo en Chlrlqul. 01 pu
blico.
HACESABER: AGROPECUARIO
DEPARTAMENTO DE
REFORMA AGRARIA
R[GION -1· CIIIRIQUI
EOICro NO 178-93
El Suscrllo Func/onorla
Sustanclodor de 10 Retor
ma Agrarlo. del Mlnlstorlo
de Oosarrollo Agropo
cuarlo en Chlrlqul. 01 pO
bllco.
HACESABER:
Que el s9l'lor (0) ONElINA
CARRENO RIOS. veclno
del correglmlento de
SANTA CRUZ. Dlstrlto de
RENACIMIENTO.portador
de la c(Jdula de Identl·
dad Personal N' 4·99·
1063. ha sollcltado 0 la
Rotorma Agrarla. moo
dlante Sollc~ud N" 4·306-
51.10 adjudlcacl6n a tftu-
10 onoroso do uno Parce·
la eslatal adjudlcable.
con una supertiele de 42
Has. + 2543.38 M. ublca
Que el sei'lor (a) DAMIAN do en DOMINICAL Carre·
CABALLERO. veclno del glmlontodeSANTACRUZ.
correglmlento do CA BE· Dlstrlto do RENACIMIEN·
CERA. Dlslrllo de BOQUE- TO de esta Provlncla. cu
RON. portador do la co-yos IInderos son:
dula do Identldad Parso-NORTE:Joso Olmodo
naIN94-124-527.hasollcl- Corroi'lo. Bollvor Campo
lodo 0 la Retorma Agra-y sorvldumbre para
rla. medlanle Sollcltud N' One lino CarreM
4-31443.laadjudlcacl6n SUR: Pedro Anlonlo
a titulo onoroso do una Carrei'lo y no Pav6n
Parcelaestataladjudlca- ESTE: Rio Pav6n y BoITvar
ble.conunasuperfielede Compos HACESABER: 1 Ha.+5719.SOM2.ublca- OESTE: Quebrada sin
Que 01 sei'lor (a) NELSON do on MACANO ABAJO nombre 0 Isldro P(Jroz
QUIROICASnllO.vaclno Correglmlenlo de CA BE-Para los otectos legales
del correglmlento de CERA.OIstrltodoBOQUE- se tUa e! presente Edlcto
ASERRIODEGARfCHE.OIs- RaN de osta Provlncla. en lugar vlslble de oste
trllo de BUGABA. porta-cuyos nnderos son: Despacho. en el de 10
dordelacMulodolden- NORTE:Domlnga Guerra Alcaldla dol Olslrlto de
fldad Personal NO 4.a2-65. Vda. de Caballero Renaclmlonto 0 en la
ha soIlcltado a 10 Retor-SUR: Sadlt Caballero Corregldurla de Santa
moAgrarla.medlanleSo- Arovz. Crvz. y copla de! mlsmo
Ilcltud N9 4-31533.10 ac!-ESTE: Camlna a Macano seontrogaranollnterosa-
judlcacl6n 0 titulo onere-Arrlbo do para quo 10 haga pu-
so de una Porcola esto-OESTE: RIo Calmlto bncor en 105 6rganas do
101 odjudlcoble. con U10 Polo Ios otactos logalas publlcldod corrospon
suporncle de 4 HOs. + se rVa e! prosento Edlcto dlente. tal como 10 ordo-
1906.37 M2. ublcade en en iugor Visible de este na 01 ArtIculo 106 del C6-
JACU CorregJmlenlo do Despocha. en 01 de la dlgo Agrarla. Este Edlcto
ASERRIO DE GARfCHE. [)is-A1coldfa dol Dlstrlto do tendra LrlO vlgenclo do
trito do BUGABA do eslo Boquer6n 0 en la Corre-quince (15) dlas a partlr
Provfncla. cuyos Ilnderos g1durfa de Cabocera y de la OlNma pubncacl6n.
son: copladolmlsmoseentre- Dodo on Dovld a los 12
NORTE:Mano Qulntero qcrOn oIlnteresodo para dfos del mos do obrll do
SUR: Se!vldLmbre de 6.00 que 10 hoga publlcar en 1993.
Mts. Ios6rgonosdepubllcldod ING. GAlO ANTONIO
ESTE: Area cia ejldos ocu-corrospandlente. tal AROS!:MENA
pado par Nelson Qulroz comoloordenaolArt1cu- Funclonarlo
CasNno 10 108 del C6d1go Agra- SustancladOr
OESTE: RIo Chlrlquf Vlolo rlo. Este Edlcto tendr6l.OO DILIA F. OE AI<CE
Pora \05 ataclos legokls vlgenda do quince (15) Secretana Ad-Hoc
se tIla e! presente Edlcto OOs a pertlr de la OlNma l-263.909.60
en !ugcr visible de este publcocl6n. Unlca p\.i:>IlcacI6n R
DGspacha. en el do 10 Dodo en DovId a !os 13
Alcoldfo dol Dlstrlto do dfos dol mEn do abrll de
Bugotia 0 en 10 Cooe-1993.
gldurla de Aserrlo de ING. GAlO ANTONIO
GorlcM y coplo dol ml$- AROS!:MENA
mo se entregoran ollnte- Ftnclonarlo
resado para que 10 haga SUstanclador
publiCOI' en los 6rganos CECIUA G. DE CACERES
dePlbllcidodcorrespon- Secretarla Ad-Hoc
dlente. tol como 10 ord&-L· 264.Q93.11
na 01 ArtIculo 108 dol C6-Unlca plb/lcacl6n R
dlgo Agrano. Este Edlcto
lendr6 lX'Kl Vlgencla cia
quince (15) dlas a partlr MINISTERIO DE
DESARROLLO MINISTERlO DE
DESARROLLO
AGROPECUARfO
DEPARTAMENTO DE
REFORMA AGRARIA
REGION -1-CHIRIQUI
EDICTO N' 175-93
El Suserlto Funclonarlo
Sustanclodor do 10 Refor
mo Agrorla. dol Mlnlstorlo
de Oesarrollo Agrope
cuarlo en ChIrlqu. 01 pO-bllco.
HACESABER:
QIJO 01 Sor'\or (a) RU BEN
DARIO SERRUD ESPINOSA.
voclno dol correglmlento
de LA ESTRELLA. Dislrlto de
BUGABA. portodor do la M IstEk[o . • san: i
Ag~~Qrlo.de l,r.I(i sill;
perflCle 0~~·A6s'.;·+
2628.70 M2. ublcada on
el correglmlento' de Son
Martin. Dlstrlta do Pana
ma de la Provlncla cia
Panama dontro do los sI
c{)dula de Identldad Por-gulontos IIndoros genora
sonal NO 4-178-14 1. ha 50-105' .
IIcltado a 10 Retorma . NORTE:E!eno Plnz6n y ve
Agrarla. medlante SoIIc1-redo .
tud N' 4-31621.10 adJudl- SUR: Escuela de Balo dol
cacl6n a Iftulo oneroso Plro y carrel era principal
do uno Parcolo ostatal ESTE: Verodo y corretera
adjudicable. con uno su-principal
pertlcle de 0 Has. '+ OESTE: Escuela do Bajo 8
752301 M2. ublcada en Plro
SIOGUI Corroglmlento de Par~ los efectos legales
LA ESTRELLA. Dlstrllo do se fiJaesle Edictoenlugar
BUGABA de oslo Provln-vlslblO do oslo Despacho.
cia. c~os IInderos son: y .Corregldurla de Son
NORTE.Camlno a Con-Martin y capias dol mls
capel6n mo so entregarOn 01 Into
SUR: Javler A1exls Morales resado para que las pu
ESTE: Loonarda Controras bllque on 105 6!ganos do
O[STE; Jos() Anlbal Vega publlcldad correspon
Par,? los etectos legales dlente. 101 y coma 10 or
se tlja 01 presente Edlcto dena 01 Articulo 106 de!
on Iugar visible de este C6dlgoAgrarlo. Este Eo1c
Despacho. en el do 10 to tondra una vlgencla
Alcaldla del Dlstrlto de dequlnce(15)dfasapar
Bugaba 0 on la Carre-Ilr de la ultima publlca
gldurla de La Estrella y cl6n
copla delmlsmo se entre-Chepo: marzo 22.1993
goran allnteresado para VICTOR NAVARRO
que 10 haga publlcar en Funclonarlo
los6rganosdepubllcldad Sustanclador
correspondlente. tal MAGNOUA DE MEJIA
como la ordena eI Artlcu- secretarla Ad-Hoc
10 108 del C6digo Agra-L-264 191 96
rlo EsteEdiclotendr6una Unlca'publlcacl6n R
vlgencla do quince (15) -~~----~
dlos a partlr do la OIHmo
publlcacl6n.
Dodo en DaVld e Ios 7
dlos del mes de abrll de
1993.
ING. GALO ANTONIO
AROSEMENA S.
Funclanorlo
SUstanclador
CECIUA G. DE CACERES
secretaria Ad·Hoc
l-263 823.72
Unlco publlcocl6n R
MINISTERIO OE
DESARROLLO
AGROPECUAr<IO
DIRECCION NACIONAL
DE REFORMA AGRARIA
EDICTO NO 25-93
El Suscrllo Funclooarlo
SUstancladOf de la Dirac
ci6n Nocloool do Refor
ma Agrarla en e/ Dlstrllo
de Chepa. 01 pObIlco:
HACESA&R: MINISTERIO DE
DESARROLLO
AGROPECUARIO
DIRECCION NACIONAl
DE REFORMA AGRARIA
EOICTO NO 26-93
El Suscrlto Funclonarla
Sustanclodor de la Dlrac·
ci6n Naclonal de Refor
me Agrarla en e! OIstrlto
do Chepa. 01 pObllco:
HACESA6ER:
Que eI ser.or (0) JOVlTA
AGAPE HERNANDEZ DE
NElSON. vedno dol carre
glmlento de PACORA. Cls
trlto de PANAMA. porta
dor de la cbdJlo de !den
tided Porsanol N' 2-85-
565. ha IOIldtodo 0 la 01-
recci6n Nadonal de Re
tormo Agroria. mocfonle
SoIlcJtud NI 8-{)5().92. 10
aquctcoci6na ffhJoooe
roso de una Parcela de
lerrenoub!coda en la An
Queelsooor(o)~RnLDA ca 2604. Tomo 177. folio
GONIAlEZ CONCEp· 126 V de pt'opIoclod del
CION. veclna del corr&gl- Mlnlstarla de Desorrollo
mlento de SAN MARTIN. Agropecuot1o dolX'Kl&U
Distrlto de PANAMA. par-perflcle de '0 HOs. +
todOr de la clKlUa de 0801.75 M2. lbIcada en
ldontldad PerSOf'lOI NO 8-01 corroglmlonto de
295·304.hasolldlodoola Pocoro. DlstrtfodePono
Dlraccl6n Naclonal de mO de 10 Provhcla de
Roforma Agrarla. me-Panama dentro de Ioul
dlanlo Solldtud N' 8-207. gulentlnllnderolgenero-
10 adjudlcacl6n a titulo \e$'
oneroso 00 uno Porce!a NOmE:Ftonclsco Fuootes
do terreno ublcode en la Vorgos
Flnca3199.Tomo60.FoIlo SUR: .JoWJUIo FIores
240 y de pt'opIedad dol ESTE: ~mlna de florra 48 IP/NI 1 IPAN/CI 1
Page 49
OESTE: Servldumbre 0 MAGNOLIA DE MEJIA 84.10 a(;tudlcaclOn 0 Hlu-
colle . Secrolarfa Ad-Hoc 10decompra.doLna Par-NORTE:Callo --.... '-... -r OfdonoolArIJcu
servldumbre a 0 . del C6dgo Agro
Palo los oloclos logaloa L· 264.161".50 cola do 10rreno QIJO lor-
senjaesleEdlcloenlugar Unlca publlcacl6n R ma pOlIo do 10 IInco
vlslbledeesleD&spacho. --------- 89.005. Inscrlla 01 Rollo
yCOIregldurlade Pacora MINISTERIO DE 1772. Complomonlorlo
y coplas dol mlsmo so en- DESARROllO Documenlo 3 y (10 pro-SUR: Maurlclo CoSs ~.~:;:;.~EsI"':eEdlcto'endr6
Adollo Castro Abro'lo y vt(Jonclo do qt.dnco (15
Bosdlo Carrasqullla dlas a parllr do 10 Qlllm
ESl E: Scrvldumbro 0 olros pubncacl6n.
IregarOn 01 Inleresado AGROPECUAI?IO plodad dol Mir~~I(JII() d., loles y Baslllo CarrasQulJla Buena Vlsla. 2 de obit d
Or!il[: Juan Jos6 C.orv(r· 1<Xl3
paraquolas publlqueon DIRECCION NACIONAl DesarrolloAgropocuollo.
los6lganosdepubPcldad DE REFORMA AGIIAI?IA do uno 6100 ~I !p0.lIiCiOI
corrospondlonle. tal y EDICTO N" 26·93 do 0 HOs. + 0.61\2./9 M2.
comoloordonaelArllcu- El Suscrllo FUllclonorlo ublcoda on cl corronl-
10 108 dol C6d1go AglO-SUslanclador de 10 Dlrec-mlonlo de Pacora. Oislrl
rlo.EsleEdlclolendrOuna cl6n Naclonal de I~eror-10 do Panama ub/coda
vlgencla de quince (15) ma Agrarla en el Dislrllo en 10 Provincla de Pana· ICl Y Cano Son Jos6 DAMARIS V[RGARA G.
Poro 105 ereclos 10gOlos Funclonorlo
se flja osle Ediclo onlugar SusloncladOl de la
vl:;\t~OdoosloDo~pocho.· Rolorma Aorarla
en 01 do 10 Corregidur!a Prov. do Col6n
Tocumen y copias dol VIElKA F.DtlH DE lEON H
mlsmo se enlregarOn al Secrelarla Ad-Hoc
dlas 0 partlr de 10 Olllma de Chepo. 01 publico: ma.comprendidodoniro InlorosOdo para que las L-264 188.73
pubncacl6n. HACE SABER: de los slgulontes lindoros publique en 105 6rganos Unlca publlcacl6n R
Chopa: malZo 22. 1993 Que el sel'lor (0) ARQUI· gcn€lIales: do publicldod c orrmoon·
VICTOR NAVARRO MEDES VERGARA VER· NORTE:Vereda do 2.50 dienlo. 101 y coma 10 or- MINISTERIO DE
Funclonarla GAllA. voclno dol corro-Mls. rlnno 01 Arilculo lOll (101 DFSARr?OIIO
SUslanclador glmlenlo de CANITA. Ois-SUR: Andres Marllnez y C6digoAgrarlo. (slo[d/c- AGROPf:CUAUIO
MAGNOLIA DE MEJIA trlto de CHEPO. porlador Evarlsto Soavcdra
Secretarla Ad-Hoc de la cedula do Identt-ESTE: ArlslJdos Vlllarroal 10 lendra una vtgoncla DEPAr~TAMENTO
de Quince (15) dlas 0 por- REGIONAL DE
L-264.187.84 dadPersonaIN"7-67-456. Guerra IIr do 10 ulJlma publlca- Rtf OR MA AGRARIA
Unlca publlcacl6n R ha sollcllado 0 10 Dlrec-OESTE: Calle do acceso cl6n. PROVINCIA DE COLON --------- cl6n Naclonal de Refor-Para los eloclos legalos Dodo en Panama. 0 los 7 EDICTO N" 3-37-93
MINISTERIO DE maAgrarlo.medlanteSo- sefijaosleEdlctoonlugor
DESARROLLO Ucltud N" 8-421-92.10 ad-visible de esle Dospocho.
AGROPECUARIO judlcacl6n 0 lltulo onoro-en el de 10 Corrogldurlo dlas dcl r"cs do obrrl de n Suscrllo Funclonarlo
1993 SUslonclador do 10 Dlrec
L1C. DARIO MONTl\?O M. ci6n Regional do Rofor-
DIRf:CCION NACIONAl so do uno Porcola d.~ do Pocora y capias dol
DE REFORMA AGRARIA lerreno ubicodo on horra rnismo so onhogar(lIl 01 Funclonarlo ma A9rarla en 10 Provln-
Sustonclador cia do Col6n. 01 public-o:
EDICTO NI' 27-93 naclonal. do uno suporli-inlorosado para que los ROSA F. DE CABI~mA HACE SABER:
El Suscrllo Funclonorlo cle de 26 Has. + 8.000 M2. publlque en los 6rgonos
SuslancladordelaDlrec- ublcada en 01 corrogl- depubJlcldadcorrespon
cl6n Naclonol de Relor-mlenlo de Canlta. Dislri-diente. 101 y como 10 or
ma Agrarla on 01 Dlstrlto to de Chopo do 10 Pro-dona el Arliculo 108 dol Sccrelorla Ad·' loc Que el sor'lor (0) CRISTO-
L-264.190.73 SAUNA PENA ROORIGUEZ.
Unica publlcacl6n R veclno (0) dol corregi-
de Chopa. 01 pObllco: vlncla do I'anorn(r (lOll' C6<llgoAgrario.1 sln\ (he;· MI~JlSI(RIO IX
DESAllrlOllO
AGROPECUARIO
REGION N'6
(lU(NA VIS!A CQLON
DEPARTAMEN10
REGIONAL DE
REFORMA AGRARIA
EOICTO N" 3-41-93 HACE SABER: trodolosslguionlosllndo- 10 londra uno vigol1ciG
Que el sel'lor (0) MARSE· ros generales: de Qulnco(I!» diosa par
LINO LOPElCASTllLO. ve-NORTE:Camlno dol Chl-IIr do 10 ulllmo nubllco
clnodelcarreglmlentode cho y [nelda Barohona cl6n.
CA8ECERA. Dlslrlto de SUR: Abel Vergora Dodo en Chepo 0 los 7
CHEPO. portador de la ESTE: Enelda Barahana dias dol mes de obrll do
cedula de Identtdad Per· OESTE: Camlno del Chl-1993.
sonaIN°8-221-1826.haso- cho VICTOR NJ\VARRO
IIcllado 0 10 Dlroccl6n No: Para los eleclos legales Funclonarlo El. Suscrlio Funclonorlo
Sustanclador de la Dlrec
ci6n Reglonol de Reror
mo Agrarlo en la Provin
cia do Col6n. 01 publico: clonal de Relorma Agra-se fija esto Edicto en lugar Sustanclador
rla. medlanle Sollcltud N° visible de €Iste Despacho. MAGNOLIA DE MEJIA
8-063-91.laadjudlcacI6n y Corregld4rla do Cal'llla Secrelarla Ad-Hoc
a tttula aneroso de uno ycaplasdelmlsmoseen- l-264.196.59
Parcola do torreno ubl-tregar6n 01 Inlore~ado Unica publicaci6n R
cada on la Flnca 1038. para quo las publlque en
Tomo 93. Folio 200 y de los6rganosdepublicldad
propledad del Minlslerlo correspondlonle. 101 y
de Desarrollo Agrope- comoloordanaolArtlcu
cuarlo. de uno superllcle 10 108 del C6digo Agra
de 1 Has. + 2922.17 M2. rfo.EsloEdlclotondrauna
ublcoda en el corregl- vlgenc\a de qulnco (15)
mlenlodeCabecera. DIs-dias a partlr de 10 ull1ma
lrllo de Chopo de 10 Pro-publlcacl6n. HACE SABER:
MINISTERIO DE Que el senor (0) SllVIA
DESARROLlO MARlA HURTADO DE DEL·
AGROPECUARIO GADO. veclno (a) del co-
DIRECCION NACIONAL rregimiento de SABANI
DE REFOI~MA AGRARlA TAS.DlstrllodeCOLONde
Ar~EA METROrol.llANA oslo Provlncla. porlador
EDICTO NI' 6.Q30-93 de 10 cMula de Idonlln-
El Suscrllo Funclonorio cacl6n Porsonol N" 3-31-
Suslanclador de la Direc-55. ha solicit ado 0 10 Di
cl6n Naclonal de Roror-reccl6n Naclonol de Ro
ma Agrarla en 10 Oficlna lormo Agrarlo. medionle
de Panama. 01 putllco: SoUcllud N° 3-132-79. la vlncla de Panama den-Chepo: abrn
lro de los slgulentes Unde- VICTOR NAVARRO
ros generales: . Funclonarlo
NORTE::Lote 8-B. lote 8A. Suslanclodor
Comlno. Colle SIN MAGNOLIA DE MEJIA HACE SABER: adjudlcaci6natltuloono-
SUR: Calle SIN. Morclal Socrelarla Ad-Hoc Que eI sel'lor (0) AMINTA roso de una Parcela de
ROSA COPRI DE RODRI-IIerraestalolodjudlcable.
GUEZ. veclno (0) del co-de una superficlo de 0
rreglmlenlo de TOCU-hectareas con 0788.12 Cerrud Pbrez L-264.191.14
ESTE: luls Hernan G6mez Unlca publlcacl6n R
Zarate. luls Hernan
G6mez Zarale
OESTE: Marsellno L6pez
Costtllo. Marsollno lapez
Casllllo
Para los ereclos logales
se fija esle Edlcto en lug or
visible de esle Despacha.
y Corregldur!a de Chepa
y coplas del mlsma se en
tregoran 01 Inleresada
pora que las publlque en
105 61ganos de publlcldad
corrospondlenle. tal y
como 10 ordona eI Articu
lo 108 del C6d1go Agro-
110. Eslo Edlcto lendra una
vlgenclo de Quince (15)
dlas 0 partlr do 10 OIttma
publlcacl6n.
Chepo: malZo 22. 1993
VICTOR NAVARRO
Func\onarlo
SUstonclodor MINISTERIO DE MEN. del Dlstrlto de PA-melroscuodrados.ublca-
DESARROlLO NAMA. porlador de 10 ca-dos en Nvo. Mejico. COHo-
AGROPECUARIO dula de Identldod Porso-glmlenlo de Sobonlios.
DIRECCION NACIONAl nol NO 7-A6-383. ha soU cl-Dlstrlto de Col6n. de esla
DE REFORMA AGRARIA to do 0 la Oirecci6n Na-Provil)cla. cuyos Under os
EDICTO N" 29-93 clonal de Rolormo Ama· son:
El Suscrllo Funclonarlo rlo. medlonle SoUcliud N9 .NORTE:Juan Marlfnoz. E~
Sustanclador de 10 Dlrec-8-169-81.10 adjudlcacl6n' teban Alvarada
ciOn Naclonal de Refor-0 titulo de compra. 00' SUR: Calle. Bernordo
ma Agrarla en 01 OIslrllo uno Porcola do lorrono Sclopls
de Chepo. 01 publico: QueformaparledelaFln- ESTI:: Bernordo ·Scolopls.
HACE SABER: ca 10423.lnscrllaolTomo Eslebon A1varado
Queelsar'lOl(o)AIlAMEl1S 319.Foll0474ydepraple- OESTE: Juan Martlnez
lICET ASPRllLA 1100111-dad dol Mlnlslorlo do De-Para los aroclos logolos
GUEZ. vec1no (0) del co-sarrolloAgropecuarlo.de so fija el presenle Ediclo
rreglmlenlo de PACORA. un area superficial de 0 en lugar vlslblo de este
del Dlslrllo de PANAMA. HO. + 1.807.51 M2.ublco- Despacha. yen 10 Corre
portador de 10 cedula de daenelcOlreglmlen.lode gldurla de Sobanllos y
IdenlJdad Porsonol N" 50 TOCUMEN (LAS MANANI- copla del mlsmo so entre-
13-905. ha sollcllado 0 10 TAS), Dlslrllo de PANA-gara 01 inlerosado para
Dlreccl6n Naclonol de MA. Provincla de Pana-Que le haga publlcor en
Reforma Agrarla. me-m6 comprendldo dentro los6lganosdepublicldad
dlonte SoIlcllud N" 6-60-do los slgulenlos Underos: correspondlenles. tal rnionlo do SANTA ROSA.
Dlslrllo do COLON porln·
dor (0) do 10 C6dula (to
IdentiRCClcl6n POIsonol N"
-8·<104 . .dO:? ho solicltodo 0
10 Dlroccl6n Noclonol clo
flororma Agrorlo. mo
diante Sollcltud N" 3-100-
92.10 odjudicoci6n 0 trlu-
10 onoroso de una Parco-
10 de t1erra eslalol
adjudlcoble. de una SI.!
pOltiCl13 de 0 hectoreas
con 113371 metros cuo
drados. ublcados en Po
lenquo. corregimlent 0 do
Santa Ro~o. Dlslrlio do
Cor6n. do osta Provlncla.
cuyos IInderos son:
NORTE:Ruben S6ez. Gu
mercindo Domlnguez.
servldumbre
SUR: Torlblo Por'lo
ESTE: Servldumbro.Jocln
to Ja~n Domlnguoz
OESTE: Zanja. Norberlo
B6sQuez
Pora 10S electos legalos
se lija el presenle Ediclo
en lugor vtsible de oslo
Despocho. yenlaCorre
gldurla de Sonla Rosa y
coplo del mlsmo se entre
goro 01 Inleresado para
que le haga pubRcar en
los 61ganos depublicldod
correspondlenles. tal
como 10 ordona eI Articu
lo 108 del C6digo Agra
rfo. EsleEdlctotendrauno
vtgencla de qulncoJ (15)
dlas 0 porllr de 10 Ultimo
publlcacl6n.
Buona Vlsla. 30 de malzo
de 1993
UC.DAMA!?tS
VERGAMG.
Funclonorfa
SUslanclador do 10
Reformo CoI6n 0.1.
SOlEDAD MARTINEZ
CASTRO
Secretana Ad-Hoc
l-264.190.07
Unlco pubJlcacl6n R
| 19,745 | 129,741 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_REG_115-2C1.pdf
|
Q_WT_REG_115-2C1
|
WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONWT/REG115/2/Corr.1*
21 May 2001
(01-2563)
Committee on Regional Trade Agreements Original: English
FREE TRADE AGREEMENT BETWEEN TURKEY AND
THE FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA
Terms of Reference of the Examination
Corrigendum
Second paragraph, first sentence, should read:
"It is understood that the Understanding read out by the Chairman of the Council for
Trade in Goods under item 7 of the Agenda of the meeting of Council for Trade in
Goods on 20 February 1995, as contained in document WT/REG3/1, will apply
mutatis mutandis to the examination of the agreements."
__________
* In English and French only.
| 98 | 694 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_WT_TPR_M76.pdf
|
R_WT_TPR_M76
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEWT/TPR/M/76
1er février 2001
(01-0507)
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales
14 et 16 novembre 2000
EXAMEN DES POLITIQUES COMMERCIALES
JAPON
Compte rendu de la réunion
Président: S. E. M. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury (Bangladesh)
Page
I. REMARQUES PRÉLIMINAI RES DU PRÉS IDENT ..........................................................3
II. DÉCLARATION LIMINAIRE DU RE PRÉSENTANT DU JAPON..................................4
III. DÉCLARATION DU PR ÉSENTATEU R ..............................................................................9
IV. DÉCLARATIONS DES MEMBRES DE L'ORGANE D'EXAMEN DES
POLITIQUES CO MMERCIA LES.......................................................................................12
V. RÉPONSES DU REPRÉSENTANT DU JAPON ET COMMENTAIRES
ADDITIO NNELS ................................................................................................................... .30
VI. REMARQUES FINALES DU PRÉSID ENT........................................................................46
Note: Les questions écrites communiquées à l'avance par les Membres de l'OMC et les réponses
du Japon figurent dans le document WT/TPR/M/76/Add.1.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 3
I. REMARQUES PRÉLIMINAIRES DU PRÉSIDENT
1. Le cinquième examen de la politique commerciale du Japon a eu lieu les 14 et
16 novembre 2000. Le Président a souhaité la bienvenue à la délégation du Japon, conduite par
M. Yoshiyuki Motomura, et au présentateur, M. l'Ambassadeur Walter Lewalter (Allemagne).
Comme à l'accoutumée, le présentateur parlerait en son nom personnel et non en tant que représentantde son pays. Conformément à la pratique établie, il avait fourni à l'avance un aperçu des principales
questions qu'il entendait soulever.
2. Le Président a rappelé l'objet du mécanisme d'examen des politiques commerciales et les
principaux éléments de procédure de la réunion. Le rapport du gouvernement japonais était paru sous
la cote WT/TPR/G/76 et celui du Secrétariat de l'OMC sous la cote WT/TPR/S/76; les principales
questions soulevées par le présentateur figuraient dans le document WT/TPR/D/55. Les questions
écrites présentées par l'Argentine, le Chili, Hong Kong, Chine, le Canada, la Nouvelle-Zélande, la
Corée, la Malaisie, le Pérou, l'Union européenne, la Suisse, l'Australie, la Colombie, l'Uruguay, l'Inde,
le Brésil, la Norvège, Maurice, la Thaïlande et les États-Unis (WT/TPR/M/76/Add.1, annexe I)
avaient été communiquées à la délégation du Japon.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 4
II. DÉCLARATION LIMINAIRE DU REPRÉSENTANT DU JAPON
3. Le représentant du Japon, M. Yoshiyuki Motomura, a déclaré que la procédure d'examen des
politiques commerciales contribuait grandement à rendre les systèmes commerciaux des pays
membres plus transparents, ce qui était essentiel pour promouvoir le système commercial multilatéral.
Il a exprimé l'espoir que, grâce à ce cinquième examen de la politique commerciale du Japon, lesMembres de l'OMC auraient une meilleure compréhension de cette politique dans le contexte
international. Il a parlé à ce propos de certains des aspects saillants des mesures prises récemment par
le Japon en matière de commerce et d'investissement.
4. Depuis le début des années 90, l'économie japonaise se trouvait dans une situation difficile et
était l'un des éléments les plus touchés de l'économie mondiale. C'est pourquoi la première priorité de
la politique économique du Japon avait été de sortir de la récession. Celle-ci n'était pas une récession
économique cyclique ordinaire, mais était caractérisée par une stagnation économique due à desdifficultés structurelles. Les trois principaux problèmes auxquels l'économie japonaise s'était trouvée
confrontée étaient des prêts non performants, un excès de capitaux et une main-d'œuvre en surnombre.
Ils étaient étroitement liés. Les entreprises et les ménages souffraient de l'éclatement de la bulle
économique, qui avait fait baisser la valeur de leurs avoirs, y compris celle des actions et des biens
immobiliers. La demande intérieure avait diminué, entraînant une nouvelle chute de la valeur desactifs et déclenchant un cercle vicieux de perte de valeur des actifs et de ralentissement économique.
De ce fait, les entreprises avaient conservé capitaux, main-d'œuvre et emprunts en quantités
excessives. De nombreuses entreprises ont tenté de réduire ces excédents en réduisant le coût de
l'emploi et les investissements. Les restructurations au niveau des entreprises ont entraîné une baisse
sensible de la confiance et de la consommation des ménages.
5. Les principaux aspects des diverses mesures macro-économiques et des réformes structurelles
mises en œuvre par le gouvernement japonais étaient les suivants:
a) il avait considérablement réduit les impôts pour stimuler la demande et entrepris, par
le biais des dépenses publiques, notamment sous la forme de travaux publics, de
stimuler les investissements privés pour créer une demande durable;
b) devant le peu d'empressement des établissements financiers à fournir des fonds, il
avait entrepris des réformes financières et créé des systèmes visant à faciliter la
fourniture de fonds aux entrepreneurs afin de stimuler l'investissement privé;
c) il avait entrepris d'améliorer les programmes de formation à l'intention des
entrepreneurs et travailleurs, estimant que la fourniture de qualifications et d'une
éducation créerait davantage d'emplois et augmenterait ainsi les revenus, ce qui
entraînerait une augmentation de la consommation et de la demande effective;
d) pour réduire le sentiment d'insécurité, il cherchait à créer une société dans laquelle
tout le monde, y compris les personnes âgées, les femmes et ceux à la recherche d'un
emploi, pouvait travailler; et
e) il poursuivait ses efforts pour revitaliser l'industrie privée. Il avait adopté diverses
mesures de déréglementation, qui réduiraient les obstacles à l'accès aux marchés etrevitaliseraient l'économie. La déréglementation aurait aussi pour effet de faire
baisser les prix et donc d'accroître la consommation et la demande effective. Le
gouvernement attachait aussi de l'importance à la promotion d'industries
prometteuses, notamment celles liées à la protection de l'environnement, aux soins
médicaux, aux biotechnologies, à la construction d'infrastructures urbaines, à l'énergiesolaire et aux autres énergies de substitution et au logement.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 5
6. En outre, le gouvernement avait élaboré un plan économique et lancé un certain nombre de
trains de mesures. Comme on pouvait le lire dans son rapport, il avait élaboré, en juillet 1999, un
nouveau plan intitulé "La socio-économie et les politiques idéales pour le renouveau économique",
lequel proposait une réforme fondamentale du système socio-économique en réponse à quatre grandes
tendances socio-économiques: le passage à une société fondée sur la connaissance, la faible natalitéet le vieillissement de la population, la mondial isation et les restrictions croissantes liées à
l'environnement. En octobre 2000, sous la direct ion du Premier Ministre, le gouvernement a adopté
"Un train de mesures pour un nouveau développement économique pour le renouveau du Japon", le
quatrième du genre depuis l'examen précédent de sa politique commerciale. Ce train de mesures
visait à placer l'économie sur la voie d'un redressement auto-entretenu et à établir les bases d'une
société adaptée à une époque de connaissances diversifiées, orientée sur la promotion rapide de la
révolution des techniques de l'information, réagissant aux questions liées à l'environnement, auvieillissement de la société et à l'amélioration de l'infrastructure urbaine ainsi qu'aux mesures
concernant les infrastructures liées à la vie, la prévention des catastrophes, le financement des petites
et moyennes entreprises et le logement.
7. La situation économique commençait à donner des signes de redressement. Après avoir été
négatif en 1998, le taux de croissance économique avait atteint 1,4 pour cent au cours del'exercice 1999. Comme il l'avait annoncé le 19 octobre 2000, le gouvernement prévoyait une
croissance réelle de l'économie de 1,2 pour cent pour l'exercice 2000. Il avait l'intention de continuer
à mettre en œuvre des mesures de réforme très diverses et espérait que ces efforts contribueraient à la
croissance de l'économie.
8. La balance commerciale indiquait que les exportations et importations japonaises, mais
surtout les exportations, avaient diminué en 1999, ce qui s'était traduit par une diminution de
l'excédent commercial, lequel s'était établi à 14,02 billions de yen. Toutefois, au cours du premier
semestre de 2000, la valeur des importations avait beaucoup augmenté, ce qui traduisait à la fois un
certain redressement de l'économie et la hausse des prix du pétrole; cela avait entraîné une baisse de
5,1 pour cent de l'excédent commercial par rapport au premier semestre de 1999. D'après lesstatistiques mensuelles récentes, en août 2000 on en était au dixième mois consécutif de croissance
des exportations et des importations. Les investissements directs du Japon à l'étranger s'étaient élevés
à 7 439 milliards de yen au cours de l'exercice 1999, soit une augmentation de 42,6 pour cent par
rapport à l'exercice 1998. Les investissements étrangers directs (IED) au Japon avaient quant à eux
presque doublé pendant deux années consécutives pour atteindre 2 399,3 milliards de yen au cours de
l'exercice 1999 contre 1 340,4 milliard au cours de l'exercice précédent. Ces chiffres dénotaient une
influence positive des mesures d'ajustement structurel prises par le gouvernement sur la situation enmatière d'investissement.
9. Le représentant a mentionné quelques améliorations concernant plusieurs secteurs:
a) parallèlement à la déréglementation, les systèmes de dérogations à la Loi
antimonopole avaient été progressivement réexaminés depuis 1995. Un projet de loi
visant à supprimer ces dérogations avait été présenté à la Diète et adopté en 1999. Unprojet de loi présenté à la Diète en mars 2000 et adopté le 12 mai 2000 permettrait
aux particuliers de demander et d'obtenir des tribunaux des injonctions à l'encontre de
ceux qui violaient les dispositions de la Loi antimonopole relatives aux pratiques
commerciales déloyales. Cela améliorerait le système de dédommagement pour
violations de la Loi antimonopole.
b) Au cours de la période 1998-2000, le gouvernement avait continué à mettre en œuvre
son plan de réforme du système financier, élaboré en juin 1997, et connu sous le nom
de Big Bang, tout en prenant des mesures pour en rétablir la stabilité. En 1998, deux
lois essentielles pour le rétablissement de la stabilité du système financier avaient été
adoptées: la Loi sur le renouveau financier, qui améliorait les dispositifs deWT/TPR/M/76
Page 6
règlement financier pour la protection des déposants et emprunteurs de bonne foi, et
la Loi sur le renforcement rapide de la fonction financière, qui établissait un nouveau
système pour injecter des capitaux dans les institutions financières faisant appel à des
fonds publics. Les deux lois s'étaient révélées efficaces pour traiter des problèmes à
l'origine de la sous-capitalisation et de la faillite de grandes banques et d'autresétablissements de dépôt.
La politique monétaire relevait de la Banque du Japon, dont l'indépendance était
respectée. Des réductions d'impôts visant à stimuler la demande pouvaient être
décidées dans le cadre de l'ensemble de la politique budgétaire et des autres politiques
économiques, comme l'indiquait le rapport du Secrétariat (paragraphe 12), mais tout
projet de réduction devait respecter les principes fondamentaux de l'impôt (à savoir
équité, neutralité et simplicité).
c) Jusqu'en juillet 1999, la politique agricole du Japon était fondée sur la Loi
fondamentale sur l'agriculture de 1961. Certains objectifs de cette loi avaient été
atteints. Toutefois, certaines difficultés étaient apparues, notamment une baisse
sensible du taux d'autosuffisance alimentaire. Dans le même temps, on avait assisté à
une prise de conscience croissante du rôle multifonctionnel du secteur agricole,notamment pour ce qui est de la sécurité alimentaire et de la conservation des sols.
Pour tenir compte de l'évolution de la situation, une nouvelle Loi fondamentale sur
l'agriculture avait été passée en juillet 1999. Celle-ci établissait quatre principes
fondamentaux, à savoir garantir la stabilité de l'approvisionnement alimentaire,
permettre à l'agriculture de jouer son rôle multifonctionnel, assurer le développementdurable de l'agriculture et développer les zones rurales.
Sur la base de la nouvelle loi, diverses mesures avaient été prises pour réformer lapolitique agricole; on avait ainsi sensiblement modifié la politique des prix en ce qui
concerne le riz, le blé et d'autres produits et introduit des versements directs, selon la
surface, aux agriculteurs des régions de collines et de montagnes.
d) Une série de lois avaient été adoptées par la Diète, sur la base de la Loi concernant la
réforme du gouvernement central de juin 1998. En avril 1999, avaient été adoptés les
Plans visant à accélérer la réforme administrative du gouvernement central pour
donner des orientations notamment en matière de rationalisation des structures
administratives. Ce cadre législatif avait été renforcé en 2000 par une série d'arrêtés
et d'ordonnances du gouvernement.
En outre, le gouvernement s'efforçait de promouvoir le processus de réforme dans
d'autres domaines, qui contribueraient à revitaliser l'économie japonaise.
10. Le Japon soutenait le système commercial multilatéral et n'avait cessé de promouvoir la
libéralisation chez lui depuis son accession au GATT, en 1955. La politique fondamentale du Japonen matière commerciale avait été et serait de maintenir et renforcer un commerce libre et non
discriminatoire en faveur du développe ment durable de l'économie mondiale.
11. Le Japon avait beaucoup contribué au renforcement du système commercial multilatéral.
Depuis la création de l'OMC, il avait pleinement et scrupuleusement mis en œuvre tous les Accords
du Cycle d'Uruguay, de sorte que ses droits de douane continuaient à être les plus bas de tous les pays
développés, avec un taux moyen de 1,5 pour cent sur les produits industriels. En outre, il appliquait
l'ATI et s'orientait vers une harmonisation en ce qui concerne les produits chimiques. Depuis
l'examen précédent, des réductions de droits de douane avaient été opérées conformément au
programme concernant les produits agricoles, forestiers et halieutiques. Le Japon avait établi pour le
riz des droits conformes à l'Accord sur l'agriculture. Avant la Conférence ministérielle de Seattle, ilWT/TPR/M/76
Page 7
avait présenté diverses propositions visant à renforcer encore le système commercial multilatéral. Il
avait contribué de manière constructive aux activités de l'OMC afin d'assurer le bon fonctionnement
du système. Le Japon ne se départirait pas au XXIe siècle de son engagement fort en faveur du
système commercial multilatéral.
12. La priorité de la politique économique du Japon était la revitalisation de son économie et de la
société, non seulement en tant que fin en soi, mais aussi pour contribuer au développement mondial
en cette ère de mondialisation. À cette fin, il avait fait de très gros efforts pour créer un cadre dans
lequel les personnes, les biens, les services et les capitaux pourraient circuler librement. Le
gouvernement accordait le plus haut degré de prio rité au maintien et au renforcement du système
commercial multilatéral, mais la coopération économique bilatérale et régionale offrait des
possibilités de succès considérables pour autant qu'elle se déroulât d'une manière qui complète et
renforce le système commercial multilatéral et contribue au développement de l'économie mondiale.Partant de ce point de vue, le Japon avait développé des relations de coopération économique avec
d'importants pays et régions:
a) Le Japon avait mené une série de consultations bilatérales et dialoguait avec les
États-Unis et l'Union européenne sur des questions telles que la déréglementation, la
politique de la concurrence et la réforme des réglementations. Les mesures prises à lasuite de ces consultations avaient été appliquées sur une base NPF et devraient
faciliter le commerce et les investissements avec tous les partenaires économiques.
b) Le Japon participait par ailleurs à des systèmes de coopération économique régionale
dans le cadre de l'Organisation de coopération économique Asie-Pacifique (APEC) et
du processus de réunion Asie-Europe (ASEM). La libéralisation du commerce dansle cadre du processus de l'APEC avait bénéficié autant aux membres qu'aux
non-membres car elle s'était faite sur une base NPF. Les membres de l'ASEM avaient
adopté le Plan d'action pour la facilitation des échanges commerciaux ainsi que le
Plan d'action pour la promotion des investissements. Le développement de relations
de coopération économique entre les membres de l'APEC et de l'ASEM donnerait dela vigueur au commerce mondial et favoriserait le développement de l'économie
mondiale.
c) Le Japon avait décidé de lancer à partir de janvier 2001 des négociations en vue
d'établir un vaste partenariat économique avec Singapour. L'accord économique
entre le Japon et Singapour pour un partenariat de l'âge nouveau ne serait pas un
accord de libre-échange classique, mais plutôt un nouveau type d'accord économique
susceptible de renforcer toute la palette de liens économiques entre les deux pays. Ilcouvrirait de nouveaux domaines économiques, tels que les flux de capitaux,
l'harmonisation des réglementations du commerce électronique, la coopération en
matière de commerce sans documents, les services financiers, les médias et la
radiodiffusion, les mouvements de cadres et le développement des ressources
humaines. Le futur accord entre le Japon et Singapour aurait en outre pour objet depromouvoir la libéralisation du commerce et des investissements et
d'institutionnaliser les réformes en matière de réglementation et de politiques dans les
deux pays. Il faciliterait aussi les flux transfrontières des cadres de direction, créerait
un marché plus vaste, offrirait davantage de débouchés et d'économies d'échelle et
contribuerait à la prospérité de l'économie mondiale. L'accord de partenariatdévelopperait la créativité des deux pays et encouragerait l'innovation technologique,
notamment dans les technologies de l'information et des télécommunications.
Lorsqu'ils avaient décidé de lancer les négociations, les deux pays avaient réaffirmé la
primauté du système commercial multilatéral; ils partageaient la conviction que les
accords commerciaux régionaux devaient être compatibles avec les règles de l'OMCet complémentaires du système commercial multilatéral. Les deux paysWT/TPR/M/76
Page 8
reconnaissaient le rôle de catalyseur que devaient jouer les accords commerciaux
régionaux pour ce qui est d'accélérer la libéralisation et l'établissement de règles dans
le cadre du système commercial multilatéral. Le Japon visait à conclure un accord
économique qui servirait de modèle pour d'autres pays.
13. Le Japon était pleinement engagé en faveur du système commercial multilatéral et avait joué
un rôle déterminant dans son renforcement. Tous les Membres de l'OMC devaient continuer de
s'efforcer de lancer rapidement un vaste cycle de négociations afin de permettre à l'OMC de continuer
de contribuer au développement économique mondial et au relèvement des niveaux de vie, par le
renforcement du système commercial multilatéral.
14. Le prochain cycle de négociations de l'OMC devrait avoir un ordre du jour équilibré et
complet pour permettre à l'OMC de traiter de manière appropriée des grandes questions qui se
posaient en cette époque de mondialisation et de technologies nouvelles, de s'attaquer au fossécroissant entre les pays, de tenir compte des contraintes liées à l'environnement et de répondre de
manière positive et équilibrée aux divers défis.
15. Le gouvernement japonais était déterminé à améliorer le système commercial multilatéral en
collaboration avec les autres Membres. Au XXI
e siècle, le Japon souhaitait jouer un rôle central dans
les efforts communs visant à relever ces défis.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 9
III. DÉCLARATION DU PRÉSENTATEUR
16. Le présentateur (l'Ambassadeur Walter Lewalter) a dit que du fait que le Japon était la
deuxième puissance économique et l'une des principales nations commerçantes du monde, sa santé
économique revêtait une importance cruciale pour le redressement des pays asiatiques et le
développement du commerce mondial en général.
17. Après quelques années difficiles, le Japon avait peut-être retrouvé le chemin de la croissance.
En 1999, son PIB réel avait augmenté de 0,2 pour cent; les avis divergeaient quant au taux de
croissance de 2000, mais ils étaient unanimes à estimer que l'économie japonaise était en période de
croissance. L'Agence de planification économique japonaise prévoyait une croissance réelle de
1,5 pour cent. Dans ses prévisions du 31 octobre 2000, la Banque du Japon s'attendait à ce que le taux
de croissance atteigne 1,9 à 2,3 pour cent au cours de l'exercice 2000. Certains analystes parlaient
même d'une croissance soutenue de 2 à 2,7 pour cent du PIB.
18. À la fin d'octobre 2000, l'Agence de planification économique japonaise avait révisé sa
méthode de calcul du PIB et adopté la norme ONU de 1993, généralement utilisée. Les effets de ce
changement étaient importants: pour 1997, la nouvelle méthode de calcul aboutissait à une
augmentation du PIB de 0,2 pour cent au lieu d'une diminution de 0,1 pour cent et pour 1998 à une
diminution de 0,7 pour cent au lieu de 1,9 pour cent. Il ne semblait plus exact de parler de deuxannées consécutives de croissance négative.
19. Ces chiffres étaient encourageants, mais il serait prématuré de supposer que la situation
économique était à nouveau entièrement satisfaisante. Des défis importants subsistaient, comme le
public s'en était rendu compte avec la faillite récente de sociétés d'assurance et de distribution. Il se
pouvait que ces faillites fussent dues en partie aux récents changements structurels. Le présentateur ademandé à la délégation japonaise de donner davantage d'explications sur les dernières projections de
croissance économique, compte tenu des phénomènes mentionnés.
20. Le gouvernement japonais s'efforçait de soutenir le redressement économique par des
politiques macro-économiques expansionnistes. Il avait annoncé récemment un nouveau train de
mesures budgétaires d'un montant de 11 billions de yen. La Banque du Japon, de son côté, avaitabandonné, en août 2000, sa pratique ancienne du "taux d'intérêt nul" et introduit un taux d'intérêt de
0,25 pour cent. Bien que modérée, cette augmentation faisait l'objet de débats animés au Japon, parce
qu'elle semblait aller dans le sens opposé.
21. Au fil des années, les dépenses publiques avaient augmenté de manière continue. La dette
publique représentait environ 130 pour cent du PIB. Dès 1997, le Japon s'était efforcé de mettre fin
pour l'exercice 2003 à l'émission par le gouvernement central d'obligations pour financer les déficits.
Toutefois, en raison des conditions très défavorables, le Parlement japonais avait dans un premiertemps repoussé cet objectif à 2005, puis suspendu la loi en décembre 1998. Cependant, pour la
première fois en quatre ans, dans le budget additionnel approuvé la semaine qui avait précédé
l'examen de la politique commerciale du Japon, le gouvernement n'avait pas eu recours à l'émission
d'obligations pour financer le déficit. Le présentateur souhaitait en savoir davantage sur la future
politique du pays en période de stabilisation économique et de reprise de la croissance.
22. La consommation privée restait léthargique. Le gouvernement japonais s'était efforcé
d'encourager les dépenses privées. Jusque-là, les résultats ne semblaient pas tellement positifs, mais il
fallait considérer cela sur un fond de taux de chômage sans précédent au Japon ces dernières années.
Le chômage diminuait; il était tombé de 4,9 pour cent en mars 2000 à 4,5 pour cent en août. Certains
analystes prévoyaient cependant qu'il remonterait pour atteindre environ 5 pour cent en 2001 en raison
des mesures de restructuration prises par les entreprises. Les dépenses privées souffraient en outre de
l'incertitude entourant l'avenir du système de retraite japonais dans le contexte d'une société
vieillissante.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 10
23. Le Japon intervenait pour une part importante des investissements étrangers directs dans le
monde. Mais l'afflux d'investissements étrangers directs au Japon avait été relativement réduit. Selon
les statistiques de l'OCDE, le Japon n'arrivait qu'au dix-neuvième rang à cet égard. Les réticences à
investir au Japon pouvaient s'expliquer en grande partie dans le passé par une prise de conscience
insuffisante de l'ouverture de l'économie japonaise. Ces derniers temps, toutefois, il était apparu qu'uncertain nombre d'entreprises investissaient au Japon. En 1998 et 1999, les IED avaient augmenté
considérablement: de 97 pour cent et 79 pour cent, respectivement. Certaines réformes visant à
attirer les IED y étaient peut-être pour beaucoup: le Japon avait introduit les notifications a posteriori
pour les investissements miniers, supprimé les limites de participation de capitaux étrangers dans
certains types de sociétés prestataires de services de télécommunications et aboli la réglementation sur
les investissements étrangers et l'emploi de cadres non japonais dans le secteur de la télévision câblée.
Le présentateur a demandé à la délégation japonaise de donner son avis sur l'évolution future possibleà cet égard.
24. De nombreux secteurs du marché intérieur japonais restaient réglementés. Les petites
entreprises ne produisaient que pour le marché intérieur et leur productivité était faible. C'était surtout
dans le secteur des services que les possibilités de déréglementation étaient importantes. Une étude
récente du McKinsey Global Institute avait conclu qu'en poussant plus loin la déréglementation, leJapon pourrait atteindre un taux de croissance annuel de 4 pour cent.
25. Les exportations japonaises avaient baissé pendant deux ans à partir de 1998, en raison
surtout de la crise économique des pays asiatiques. Les importations avaient également diminué
depuis 1998, en raison des résultats médiocres de l'économie japonaise et du renchérissement du yen.
Mais les chiffres d'exportation et d'importation s'étaient redressés au premier semestre 2000. Laconcurrence internationale augmenterait encore, lorsque la Chine deviendrait Membre de l'OMC. La
réponse à ces défis ne consistait pas à adopter une politique d'importation restrictive, mais à
encourager les entreprises à améliorer leur compétitivité. Le Japon avait pour politique de maintenir
son marché ouvert. Depuis 1998, il n'avait donné notification que de quelques mesures antidumping.
Il n'avait pas pris de mesures compensatoires, ni introduit de mesures au titre de l'Accord sur les
sauvegardes, mais avait tout de même adopté des mesures de sauvegarde spéciales dans l'agriculture.
26. Il fallait considérer la politique de déréglementation du Japon sous deux angles
complémentaires. L'un était le raffermissement de la demande intérieure, l'autre l'ouverture de
meilleurs débouchés pour le commerce extérieur. Compte tenu de la croissance limitée du PIB et
même de sa croissance négative en 1998, le gouvernement japonais s'était efforcé de donner un élan
supplémentaire au processus de développement économique. Il favorisait une politique de
déréglementation et de suppression des obstacles au commerce. Une version révisée du Programmetriennal pour la promotion de la déréglementation (1998-2000) avait été adoptée en mars 2000. Un
nouveau programme triennal pour la période suivante devait être formulé en mars 2001. Le
gouvernement avait discuté de nouveaux domaines possibles de déréglementation avec divers pays.
Notamment les consultations avec les États-Unis et l'Union européenne avaient été fructueuses à cet
égard. Le gouvernement japonais devrait poursuivre activement dans cette voie. La déréglementationn'était pas principalement un moyen à court terme pour aider la croissance économique, mais avant
tout une stratégie portant des fruits à moyen et long terme. Tous les Membres de l'OMC
bénéficieraient de la déréglementation, car le Japon s'engageait à l'appliquer sur une base NPF.
27. Le présentateur souhaitait obtenir davantage de renseignements sur les projets de
déréglementation supplémentaire dans le secteur des services. Les performances du Japon dans lesecteur manufacturier avaient toujours été impressionnantes, mais les chiffres de productivité
concernant les services indiquaient un potentiel supplémentaire dans de nombreux domaines comme
la banque, l'assurance, les télécommunications et les transports. À titre d'exemple, dans le domaine
des télécommunications, les taux d'interconnexion avaient été ajustés pour améliorer la concurrence
entre les différents prestataires.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 11
28. L'application efficace de la législation sur la concurrence, dont la Loi antimonopole,
s'inscrivait dans le cadre de la politique de déréglementation. Bien qu'il eût souligné son engagement
en faveur d'une politique active de la concurrence, le Japon pouvait faire mieux. La nouvelle loi
permettant aux particuliers d'obtenir des injonctions auprès des tribunaux améliorerait peut-être
l'application des conditions de concurrence. En décembre 1999 et mars 2000, la Commission despratiques commerciales loyales avait publié des directives sur le commerce de l'électricité et du gaz.
29. En matière de normes techniques et de standardisation, le Japon travaillait à une
harmonisation internationale plus poussée des réglementations. Le présentateur s'est dit encouragé
par le fait que le Japon s'efforçait d'avoir davantage recours à des accords bilatéraux pour la
reconnaissance mutuelle de l'équivalence des certifications dans le but de faciliter le commerce.
30. Le renforcement des procédures relatives aux marchés publics semblait constituer un
instrument utile pour accroître la concurrence et le bien public. De nombreuses entreprises étrangèresn'avaient pas encore pu se faire une place dans le secteur des marchés publics du Japon. En 1998, la
part des fournisseurs étrangers dans ces marchés était de 5,7 pour cent de leur montant total.
31. Le Japon soutenait activement le système commercial multilatéral. Toutefois, les accords
commerciaux régionaux semblaient l'intéresser davantage. À la fin du mois d'octobre 2000, le
Premier Ministre de Singapour avait effectué une visite au Japon pour entamer des consultations surun accord bilatéral de partenariat économique. Les deux Premiers Ministres avaient réaffirmé la
primauté du système commercial multilatéral. L'accord de partenariat constituait une tentative pour
parvenir à une coopération plus étroite, y compris dans de nombreux domaines non encore couverts
par l'OMC, tels que la protection des investissements et les flux transfrontières de personnels
d'encadrement.
32. Des réformes avaient également été entreprises dans l'agriculture. Le Japon avait adopté une
nouvelle Loi fondamentale concernant les produits alimentaires, l'agriculture et les zones rurales, qui
constituait la première réforme majeure depuis les années 60. Certaines mesures avaient déjà été
prises, notamment les versements directs aux agriculteurs dans les régions de collines et de
montagnes. Le blé était désormais distribué par le secteur privé. Les politiques de prix concernant lesoja, le sucre et les produits laitiers avaient également été modifiées.
33. Depuis quelque temps déjà, l'OMC se penchait sur les défis du commerce électronique. À la
réunion du Conseil général de l'OMC du 10 octobre 2000, tous les Membres avaient souligné
l'importance du commerce électronique pour le développement économique. Le développement des
technologies de l'information était l'un des points centraux du nouveau plan japonais de 1999, intitulé
"La socio-économie et les politiques idéales pour le renouveau économique". Le gouvernement
japonais avait entamé des discussions sur tout un ensemble de mesures, portant notamment sur lessignatures électroniques, la Loi sur les droits de propriété intellectuelle, la Loi sur la prévention de la
concurrence illicite et les Lois de protection des consommateurs. En outre l'infrastructure en matière
de technologies de l'information devait être améliorée. Le nouveau projet de budget additionnel
prévoyait 643 milliards de yen de crédits pour des projets relatifs aux technologies de l'information.
Le présentateur a demandé à la délégation du Japon davantage de détails sur les mesures que prendraitle Japon pour promouvoir les technologies de l'information.
34. Le présentateur a mis en lumière les efforts continus de la délégation japonaise pour renforcer
le système de règlement des différends de l'OMC.
35. L'impression générale du présentateur était que le Japon avait inscrit à son actif, en matière de
politique commerciale, un ensemble de réalisations remarquables. Toutefois, il n'y avait pas decertitude aussi forte qu'on aurait pu l'espérer quant au caractère auto-entretenu de son redressement
économique.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 12
IV. DÉCLARATIONS DES MEMBRES DE L'ORGANE D'EXAMEN DES POLITIQUES
COMMERCIALES
36. Les Membres ont remercié le gouvernement japonais et le Secrétariat de leurs rapports. Ils
espéraient recevoir des réponses aux questions écrites encore en suspens.
37. De nombreux Membres ont mentionné que leurs liens bilatéraux avec le Japon en matière de
commerce et d'investissements s'étaient renforcés au cours de la période récente.
38. Les Membres étaient encouragés par les signes de redressement économique du Japon et
notamment la prévision du gouvernement d'un taux de croissance de 1,5 pour cent pour
l'exercice 2000. Ils attribuaient ce début de redressement en grande partie aux politiques
macro-économiques et aux réformes structurelles mises en œuvre par le Japon. Certains ont noté que
si les mesures d'incitation fiscale prises par le gouvernement semblaient avoir contribué à la
croissance économique, il y avait peu de possibilités d'incitations fiscales nouvelles étant donné leniveau élevé de la dette publique.
39. Les Membres ont reconnu que le caractère ouvert du système commercial multilatéral avait
contribué de manière positive à l'amélioration des perspectives économiques du Japon, en maintenant
les marchés étrangers ouverts à ses exportations. Ils avaient pris note avec satisfaction de
l'engagement du Japon en faveur du système commercial multilatéral et de sa contribution à lacroissance soutenue de l'économie mondiale grâce au respect de ses engagements du Cycle
d'Uruguay. Ils invitaient le Japon à exercer un leadership fort pour renforcer le système commercial
multilatéral, notamment pour le lancement d'un nouveau cycle de négociations commerciales.
40. Nombre de Membres ont remarqué que le Japon, qui historiquement n'avait pas pris une part
active à des accords bilatéraux ou régionaux de libre-échange, étudiait la possibilité d'accordsbilatéraux, et ils ont formulé l'espoir que ces accords couvriraient pratiquement tous les secteurs et
seraient compatibles avec l'OMC. Ils espéraient que le Japon n'en exclurait pas des secteurs
politiquement difficiles tels que l'agriculture.
41. Les Membres ont pris note avec satisfaction des progrès réalisés par le Japon depuis le
précédent examen en matière de déréglementation et de réforme structurelle, notamment dans lesservices financiers et les télécommunications, et de la mise en œuvre du Programme triennal de
promotion de la déréglementation. Certains se sont inquiétés de ce que, malgré les progrès de la
déréglementation et de la réforme structurelle, certains signes commençaient à indiquer une certaine
"lassitude des réformes". Les Membres ont invité de manière pressante le Japon à poursuivre son
processus de réforme et améliorer l'accès à ses marchés pour les biens et les services; dans ce
contexte, certains ont accueilli avec satisfaction la décision du Japon de prolonger de trois ans son
programme de promotion de la déréglementation.
42. Les Membres ont exprimé leur satisfaction devant le fait que la plupart des produits
industriels importés au Japon étaient soit admis en franchise, soit soumis à des taux de droits de
douane faibles. Cependant, certaines distorsions demeuraient, telles la structure complexe du régime
tarifaire et des contingents tarifaires japonais, notamment dans l'agriculture; malgré la faible
productivité de cette dernière, le Japon continuait à la faire bénéficier d'une forte protection,notamment par des taux moyens élevés, des droits autres qu' ad valorem très élevés sur de nombreux
produits agricoles et une administration complexe de son système de contingents tarifaires, ainsi que
des crêtes tarifaires qui, en équivalent ad valorem, pouvaient atteindre près de 1000 pour cent.
43. De nombreux Membres ont exprimé leur satisfaction à l'égard de l'initiative japonaise d'ouvrir
davantage son régime pour les investissements étrangers directs. Ils ont cependant souligné le faibleniveau des investissements étrangers directs au Japon, qui n'arrive qu'au dix-neuvième rang des pays
membres de l'OCDE dans ce domaine, ainsi qu'il est indiqué dans le rapport du Secrétariat.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 13
44. Certains Membres ont exprimé leur préoccupation devant la complexité et le manque
apparent de transparence des procédures de passation de marchés publics. Beaucoup se sont
préoccupés de la complexité des règlements sanitaires et phytosanitaires, notamment pour les
procédures de mise en quarantaine. Ils espéraient que le Japon continuerait à mettre ses normes en
conformité avec les normes internationales.
45. Les Membres ont noté que le niveau global de soutien de l'agriculture était plus élevé que
pour les autres secteurs et avait augmenté depuis 1997; il était bien supérieur à la moyenne de
l'OCDE. Selon cette dernière, le montant total des transferts vers l'agriculture avait été supérieur à la
valeur ajoutée dans ce secteur pendant la période 1990-1998. Les prix moyens de détail des denrées
alimentaires à Tokyo étaient supérieurs de 20 à 30 pour cent à ceux des autres villes du monde. De
nombreux Membres ont mentionné en l'approuvant l'introduction par le Japon, en juillet 1999, d'une
nouvelle Loi fondamentale concernant les produits alimentaires, l'agriculture et les zones rurales, dansle cadre de laquelle il abandonnait le soutien des prix pour celui des revenus. Ils invitaient le Japon à
s'engager de manière active et constructive dans les négociations imposées concernant l'agriculture. À
propos du caractère multifonctionnel de l'agricult ure, ils ont reconnu d'une manière générale qu'il
existait en agriculture des préoccupations non liées au commerce. Certain Membres ont invité le
Japon a en traiter d'une manière qui ne fausserait pas indûment le commerce international.
46. Le représentant de la Norvège a dit que, malgré les différences culturelles et géographiques
considérables, son pays bénéficiait d'une coopération étroite avec le Japon dans un certain nombre de
domaines, dont l'agriculture, les mesures antidumping et le transport maritime.
47. Il suivrait avec intérêt les progrès futurs en matière de libéralisation du régime des
investissements étrangers directs et de déréglementation des télécommunications. Dans l'ensemble, ilestimait que les entreprises norvégiennes actives au Japon considéraient que l'accès à son marché était
assez satisfaisant.
48. En tant que membre actif de l'AELE, la Norvège souhaitait recevoir davantage de
renseignements sur les accords régionaux et bilatéraux de libre-échange envisagés par le Japon.
49. Celui-ci était le deuxième marché d'exportation pour les produits halieutiques norvégiens. Il
avait libéralisé son système de contingents d'importation pour certains de ces produits. Le
représentant considérait cela positif et espérait que le Japon envisagerait d'aller plus loin dans la voie
de la libéralisation de ce domaine.
50. Au sein de l'OMC, le Japon comme la Norvège souhaitaient des niveaux d'engagement plus
élevés en ce qui concerne les transports maritimes internationaux. Les deux pays avaient des régimes
libéraux, qui traduisaient l'importance qu'ils attachaient à ce secteur pour le commerce mondial.
Néanmoins, les sociétés de transport maritime norvégiennes avaient rencontré des difficultés dans lesports japonais en raison de leurs pratiques de travail restrictives, qui limitaient la concurrence et
augmentaient le coût des activités. Selon ces entreprises, la Loi sur les transports portuaires
d'adoption récente ne semblait pas améliorer la situation.
51. Comme la Norvège, le Japon encourageait le rôle multifonctionnel de l'agriculture. Le
représentant a fait remarquer que la nouvelle Loi fondamentale concernant l'agriculture était fondéesur cette approche. La Norvège partageait pleinement l'opinion qu'il fallait prendre ces
préoccupations en considération dans l'élaboration de la politique agricole.
52. Le représentant du Chili a dit que la valeur des échanges bilatéraux entre le Chili et le Japon
était d'environ 3 milliards de dollars. Le Japon était le second client du Chili et son premier client en
Asie. Par contre, le niveau des investissements japonais au Chili était faible, ne représentant quequelque 4 pour cent des investissements étrangers dans le pays.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 14
53. Le Chili, comme le Japon, était intéressé par des négociations commerciales globales,
lesquelles devraient couvrir la politique de la concurrence, la facilitation du commerce, les
investissements étrangers et le commerce électronique. Les deux pays avaient par ailleurs coopéré
étroitement pour lutter contre l'application abusive de droits antidumping.
54. Le Japon et le Chili avaient effectué une étude conjointe sur la possibilité de conclure des
accords de libre- échange.
55. Le représentant s'est dit préoccupé par le fait que la politique agricole japonaise n'était pas
orientée vers une plus grande ouverture ou vers le respect des règles du marché dans le commerce des
produits agricoles. Ce secteur ne représentait que 2 pour cent du PIB du pays mais, selon l'OCDE, il
bénéficiait d'un soutien des pouvoirs publics qui faussait le marché ainsi que d'une protection tarifaire
trois fois supérieure à la moyenne générale, qui était d'environ 16 pour cent. Il espérait que le Japon
présenterait une proposition visant à libéraliser le commerce des produits agricoles afin d'éliminer lesdistorsions. Les autres domaines intéressant le Chili étaient les restrictions concernant les produits
halieutiques et forestiers.
56. Le représentant de Hong Kong, Chine a menti onné que Hong Kong était le sixième partenaire
commercial du japon, lequel était son troisième partenaire. En 1999, les échanges dans les deux sens
s'étaient élevés à environ 30 milliards de dollars. En raison de la crise financière asiatique, lecommerce avait eu tendance à diminuer à la fin des années 90, mais s'était redressé de pas moins de
23,1 pour cent au cours du premier semestre de 2000. La balance commerciale avait toujours penché
en faveur du Japon, avec un excédent de l'ordre de 11,6 milliards de dollars en 1999. L'intervenant
n'était pas indûment préoccupé à propos d'aucun déficit commercial bilatéral.
57. Le Japon, deuxième puissance économique du monde, était un pays de destination majeur
pour les exportations et investissements de Hong Kong. Il était le septième pays d'origine des
investissements étrangers directs reçus par Hong Kong, qui absorbait presque 10 pour cent du total de
ses investissements dans la région. Les entrepreneurs de Hong Kong avaient effectué pour environ
1 milliard de dollars d'investissement au Japon, mais ce montant n'était pas aussi élevé qu'on aurait pu
l'espérer, ce qui semblait traduire des difficultés persistantes à pénétrer sur le marché japonais, tantpour les exportations que les investissements.
58. Le représentant a exprimé sa satisfaction de constater que le Japon était en faveur de larges
négociations dans le cadre d'un nouveau cycle, mais pour que celles-ci soient couronnées de succès, il
fallait qu'elles soient gérables. Il était satisfait de l'engagement pris par le Japon d'aborder pleinement
les questions de mise en œuvre, de manière à ce que les bénéfices des négociations soient également
partagés entre pays en développement et pays développés.
59. En ce qui concerne les accords commerciaux régionaux, il était en plein accord avec ce qui
était dit au paragraphe 10 du rapport du gouvernement, à savoir que les accords commerciaux
régionaux devaient être complémentaires au système multilatéral. Il accueillait avec satisfaction
l'initiative du Japon de revoir ses mesures réglementaires et se réjouissait de l'ouverture accrue en ce
qui concerne les services, secteur le plus important et croissant de l'économie japonaise, qui
conférerait un nouvel élan à son développement.
60. Le représentant de la Nouvelle-Zélande s'est félicité de l'engagement persistant du Japon en
faveur de l'aide aux pays en développement et les moins avancés ainsi qu'aux économies en transition
pour qu'ils parviennent à un développement durable et jouissent des avantages de l'intégration dans le
système commercial multilatéral.
61. Il invitait le Japon à maintenir l'élan des réformes de ses services financiers et des
télécommunications et à étendre le processus de réforme à d'autres secteurs qui restaient en grandeWT/TPR/M/76
Page 15
partie isolés de la concurrence internationale et des participations étrangères, comme les transports,
les services juridiques et ceux liés à l'enseignement.
62. Les accords de libre-échange (ALE) avaient été pour la Nouvelle-Zélande un moyen utile de
faire avancer les réformes internes et d'accroître la compétitivité de ses industries essentielles.
63. Le représentant était heureux de noter dans le rapport du Secrétariat (page xii, paragraphe 17)
que le Japon continuait de mettre ses normes en conformité avec les normes internationales et avait
pris des dispositions pour que les résultats des essais et les évaluations de la conformité effectués à
l'étranger soient acceptés. Il accueillait avec satisfaction la nouvelle Loi sur la garantie de qualité
dans le bâtiment et ses normes non discriminatoires qui conféraient un accès concurrentiel au marché
japonais des maisons en bois aux éléments de charpente en pin radiata provenant de Nouvelle-Zélande
dont l'emploi se développait rapidement.
64. La structure tarifaire était discriminatoire à l'encontre des produits forestiers tirés de certains
conifères (dont le pinus radiata néo-zélandais), alors que les produits d'autres espèces de conifères
étaient admis au Japon en franchise. Il ne voyait aucune justification raisonnable à cette
discrimination et a rappelé que le droit de douane appliqué en l'occurrence ne pouvait viser à protéger
une industrie japonaise, puisque d'importantes quantités d'autres espèces de bois qui concurrençaient
directement les bois japonais étaient importées en franchise.
65. Les méthodes japonaises de répartition des contingents tarifaires, qui avaient tendance à être
"compliquées", étaient l'une des causes principales pour lesquelles certains contingents continuaient à
ne pas être pleinement utilisés, comme par exemple pour les produits laitiers. Le représentant a
encouragé le Japon à rendre plus transparents ses systèmes de gestion des contingents tarifaires,
notamment pour les produits laitiers et le poisson ainsi que les produits à base de poisson, et àpermettre aux utilisateurs finals d'obtenir les qu antités et qualités voulues de produits importés.
66. Il était préoccupé au sujet du système de classification des organismes nuisibles et de mise en
œuvre utilisé par les autorités phytosanitaires japonaises; de nombreux organismes nuisibles présents
au Japon mais non couverts par un programme officiel de lutte efficace et obligatoire devenaient des
"organismes nuisibles sujets à quarantaine", ce qui entraînait des taux de fumigationdéraisonnablement élevés et en conséquence des hausses de coûts et réduisait la durée de conservation
de la plupart des produits agricoles frais, notamment des kiwis néo-zélandais.
67. Il a fait remarquer que la stabilité de l'approvisionnement alimentaire pouvait être garanti de
manière plus efficace par un mélange de politiques axées sur l'ouverture et l'efficacité des marchés
qu'en mettant l'accent sur l'autosuffisance avec de fortes subventions aux producteurs nationaux. En
ce qui concerne la grande importance accordée par la nouvelle Loi fondamentale au rôle
multifonctionnel de l'agriculture, il estimait que le Japon ne devait introduire que des mesuresdécouplées, transparentes, ciblées et ne faussant ni la production, ni le commerce. Le soutien des
pouvoirs publics à l'agriculture entraînait une augmentation des coûts pour les consommateurs et les
entreprises agroalimentaires japonais et avait des répercussions sur les autres pays, notamment les
pays en développement, réduisant ainsi pour tous les bénéfices de la libéralisation du commerce
international.
68. Il fallait que le Japon en fasse davantage dans les secteurs encore très protégés comme
l'agriculture pour démontrer son engagement persistant en faveur de la mise en œuvre de réformes
globales. Le représentant encourageait le Japon à continuer de rechercher les moyens de rendre son
économie encore plus compétitive dans tous les domaines en améliorant l'accès à son marché pour les
produits et services étrangers.
69. Le représentant de l'Uruguay a indiqué qu'au cours de la période 1997-1999, le montant des
exportations de son pays vers le Japon s'était élevé à 74 millions de dollars EU et celui de sesWT/TPR/M/76
Page 16
importations en provenance du Japon à 259 millions de dollars, soit un excédent de 185 millions de
dollars en faveur du Japon.
70. La position de l'Uruguay sur l'agriculture était à l'opposé de celle du Japon. L'intervenant
souscrivait entièrement à ce que le Chili avait dit sur l'agriculture et était préoccupé par le fait qu'au
cours des réunions préparatoires à la Conférence ministérielle de Seattle ainsi qu'au Comité del'agriculture, le Japon s'était contenté d'écouter. Ses interventions s'étaient limitées à mettre en
lumière l'aspect "multifonctionnel" de l'agriculture et à insister que rien ne pouvait se faire en dehors
du cadre d'un nouveau cycle de négociations. Pour l'Uruguay, le seul objectif d'une telle attitude était
de maintenir une politique agricole inefficace et d'en faire supporter le coût aux pays à économie
agricole rentable, notamment ceux en développement.
71. Le représentant souhaitait entendre les commentaires du Japon à propos de l'indication
figurant dans le rapport du Secrétariat, selon laquelle le taux moyen des droits NPF du Japon était de18,2 pour cent pour une moyenne d'ensemble de 6,5 pour cent, de sorte que 16 pour cent des droits
applicables aux produits agricoles étaient autres qu' ad valorem . Il a aussi demandé au Japon de
commenter les paragraphes 2 et 35 du rapport du Secrétariat, qui indiquaient que 90 des 100 droits les
plus élevés comprenaient des droits autres qu' ad valorem , dont l'EAV allait de 40 à 983 pour cent. Il
souhaitait obtenir aussi des éclaircissements sur un article de presse japonais affirmant que legouvernement pourrait envisager de réduire ses engagements au titre du Cycle d'Uruguay en ce qui
concerne le riz, ceci afin de renforcer la protection des producteurs de riz nationaux.
72. Le représentant de la Malaisie a indiqué que le Japon avait été en 1999 le deuxième partenaire
commercial de son pays, étant intervenu pour 15,6 pour cent de son commerce total. Le Japon était
son troisième client à l'exportation ainsi que sa principale source d'importations. Le commerce de laMalaisie avec le Japon portait essentiellement sur les produits manufacturés, notamment électriques et
électroniques ainsi que les produits provenant de ressources naturelles.
73. Le Japon était aussi une source importante d'IED pour la Malaisie, se classant au deuxième
rang de 1995 à juin 2000. La bonne santé de l'économie japonaise était une question importante pour
la Malaisie, étant donné ces solides relations sur les plans du commerce et des investissements. Lereprésentant savait gré au gouvernement japonais de ses efforts visant à mettre en œuvre une politique
macro-économique accommodante et une politique fiscale expansionniste pour stimuler la croissance
de l'économie, car une forte croissance de l'économie japonaise ne pouvait qu'être favorable pour la
Malaisie et les autres pays asiatiques engagés dans de difficiles efforts de redressement.
74. Estimant que la croissance de 1 pour cent projetée pour 2000 restait faible, le représentant
invitait le gouvernement japonais à intensifier ses efforts pour l'accélérer, car cela était crucial pour
aider les pays asiatiques dans leur redressement économique et empêcher une nouvelle crise. Dans cecontexte, il l'invitait à redoubler d'efforts pour adopter des mesures économiques et budgétaires
appropriées pour accélérer le redressement économique. Il accueillait avec satisfaction le nouveau
Plan pour le renouveau du Japon.
75. L'une des mesures que le Japon devrait prendre était d'accroître ses achats de marchandises et
de services en provenance des pays asiatiques affectés. Dans ce contexte, la Malaisie demandait unmeilleur accès au marché japonais pour les marchandises et les services et souhaitait que le Japon
indiquât les mesures qu'il entendait prendre pour assurer le maintien d'un bon accès à son marché. Le
taux NPF moyen appliqué de 6,7 pour cent en 1999 était certes faible, mais il représentait une
augmentation par rapport au taux moyen appliqué de 5,4 pour cent en 1998. Le représentant espérait
que les hausses de taux ne portaient pas sur des secteurs d'exportation intéressant la Malaisie et lesautres pays en développement.
76. Le représentant a invité le Japon à réviser sa politique de discrimination tarifaire en ce qui
concerne les produits ouvrés, en particulier les produits d'exportation des pays en développement, telsWT/TPR/M/76
Page 17
que les textiles, les produits en caoutchouc et les ouvrages en bois. Les produits malaisiens, comme
les produits transformés en bois d'œuvre, se voyaient imposer des droits de 10 à 15 pour cent, alors
que le bois d'œuvre et les grumes étaient admis en franchise; de même, les droits sur les produits à
base de cacao allaient de 7,5 à 31,5 pour cent alors que les fèves de cacao étaient admises en
franchise.
77. Le Japon continuait à prélever un grand nombre de droits spécifiques sur divers produits,
comme les textiles, les aliments conditionnés et les produits à base de légumes. La Malaisie
accueillerait avec satisfaction toute initiative du Japon visant à convertir ces droits en droits
ad valorem , car c'étaient là d'importants produits d'e xportation pour les pays en développement.
78. Seulement quatre types de fruits tropicaux, à savoir les bananes vertes, les duriones, les noix
de coco et les ananas, étaient admis au Japon en tant que produits agricoles frais ne nécessitant pas de
fumigation. Les nouvelles variétés devaient subir des tests approfondis et coûteux. L'exportation defleurs coupées vers le Japon se trouvait aussi soumise à de strictes exigences phytosanitaires alors que
les installations des aéroports étaient insuffisantes pour recevoir ces importations. En outre, les coûts
élevés des certificats sanitaires et des tests et les dépenses connexes ne contribuaient pas à favoriser le
commerce.
79. La représentante des États-Unis a dit que, comme le Japon était la deuxième puissance
économique mondiale, son redressement durable était bon non seulement pour lui, mais aussi pour la
solidité de l'économie mondiale.
80. L'excédent global des comptes courants du Japon représentait près de 2,5 pour cent de son
PIB, soit un niveau sensiblement plus élevé que dans la plupart des pays industrialisés. Son excédent
commercial avec les États-Unis avait atteint le record absolu de 73 milliards de dollars EU en 1999.Les chiffres prévus pour l'ensemble de l'exercice 2000 indiquaient une nouvelle augmentation, à plus
de 80 milliards de dollars. L'excédent enregistré par le Japon avec les pays voisins d'Asie suivait une
tendance analogue avec une augmentation de plus de 30 pour cent au cours du premier semestre de
2000. Dans le même temps, le Japon maintenait d'importants obstacles aux importations. Il fallait
qu'il ouvre ses marchés aux produits et services étrangers et cesse de compter surtout sur lesexportations pour stimuler sa croissance intérieure.
81. Le redressement du Japon était lent et risquait fort de fléchir. La représentante appuyait
fermement la déclaration du Secrétariat selon laquelle un redressement économique durable n'était
possible que moyennant des réformes structurelles plus agressives qui renforceraient la concurrence.
Depuis 1997, les États-Unis avaient fait de la déréglementation et de la réforme structurelle le point
focal de leurs négociations commerciales bilatérales.
82. Les États-Unis avaient lu avec grand intérêt le rapport du Secrétariat; l'un des thèmes qui en
ressortaient était le fait que l'économie japonaise conservait son caractère opaque et protégé, lequel
avait entravé son redressement et soulevait des questions quant à l'engagement du Japon envers les
règles de l'OMC. Le rapport notait par ailleurs que, si le gouvernement japonais avait bien pris
quelques mesures pour promouvoir la déréglementation dans le secteur des télécommunications, les
tarifs japonais pour le téléphone et les services Internet restaient bien supérieurs à la norme des paysdéveloppés. La volonté du Japon de protéger le principal prestataire de services plutôt que de
promouvoir la concurrence dans ce secteur faisait obstacle à la croissance des technologies de
l'information dans le pays et le reste du monde. Les États-Unis continuaient à inviter le Japon à créer
un organe de régulation fort et indépendant, dont le mandat serait de favoriser la concurrence sur ce
marché.
83. Dans divers secteurs, comme les télécommunications, l'énergie et le verre plat, les
fournisseurs étrangers se trouvaient confrontés à de nombreux types d'obstacles gênant l'accès au
marché japonais en raison de l'absence d'application efficace des lois sur la concurrence. LaWT/TPR/M/76
Page 18
représentante a demandé que les poursuites criminelles soient intensifiées, les pénalités accrues en cas
de violation et les ressources de la Commission des pratiques commerciales loyales (FTC)
augmentées, comme cela était mentionné dans le rapport du Secrétariat, et a invité la FTC à prendre
une attitude plus volontariste en encourageant, outre l'application de la Loi antimonopole, la mise en
place et le maintien d'une structure de marché concurrentielle.
84. Dans le cadre de la réorganisation du gouvernement japonais, prévue pour janvier 2001, la
FTC relèverait du nouveau Ministère des affaires générales, reliant ses activités à l'actuel Ministère
des postes et télécommunications et à l'Agence de gestion et coordination. La représentante a
instamment invité le gouvernement japonais à prendre des mesures formelles pour sauvegarder
l'indépendance de la FTC et à renforcer son rôle dans l'économie japonaise à la suite de cette réforme
administrative.
85. L'Accord sur l'agriculture de l'OMC avait contribué à établir les conditions nécessaires pour
une réforme à long terme de l'agriculture, mais il était important d'accélérer le processus de réduction
des distorsions commerciales. Les négociations de l'OMC sur l'agriculture offraient l'occasion de
réduire les doits de douane et de les lier et de réduire ce faisant de manière importante les aides
intérieures qui faussent le commerce. La représentante a invité le gouvernement japonais à soutenir,
lors des négociations sur l'agriculture, les propositions visant à réduire sensiblement ou à éliminer lesdisparités entre pays dans les taux de droits de douane et à réduire grandement les niveaux de soutien
exagérés pratiqués par les Membres.
86. Le niveau toujours faible des IED dénotait le tissu complexe d'obstacles structurels et
réglementaires auxquels se heurtaient les entreprises étrangères désireuses d'accéder au marché
japonais. L'absence de réglementation sur les investissements n'était pas la difficulté. Les IEDreçus par le Japon avaient beaucoup augmenté (de 79 pour cent) au cours de l'exercice 1999, mais le
total de ces IED relativement à la taille de son économie paraissait faible par comparaison avec les
autres pays industrialisés.
87. Les pratiques opaques suivies en matière de marchés publics continuaient à empêcher l'accès
au marché japonais et soulevaient des questions quant à l'engagement du Japon en ce qui concernel'Accord sur les marchés publics. Depuis le précédent examen de la politique commerciale du Japon,
le nombre de rapports portant sur des adjudications douteuses de marchés publics avait augmenté.
Les fournisseurs américains continuaient à se heurter à des obstacles, dont le manque de transparence,
des normes et spécifications techniques douteuses qui favorisaient les entreprises nationales et le
recours excessif aux soumissions uniques. Les marchés concernant les travaux publics étaient
particulièrement préoccupants. De juillet 1998 à juillet 1999, les sociétés d'étude et de construction
étrangères n'avaient remporté que 50 millions de dollars de contrats sur un marché de travaux publicsde 250 milliards. Un système d'appels d'offres plus concurrentiel aurait pu réduire le coût de ces
projets.
88. Les prestataires japonais de services étaient très protégés de la concurrence étrangère par les
réglementations internes, le fait d'appartenir à l'État et la tolérance du gouvernement à l'égard des
pratiques anticoncurrentielles du secteur privé. Les divers obstacles à la pénétration étrangère dans lesecteur des services avaient un coût élevé, particulièrement compte tenu de l'importance croissante de
ce secteur en tant que producteur et employeur dans l'économie japonaise et mondiale.
89. Le système de distribution inefficace du Japon augmentait les prix des biens de
consommation et pourrait constituer un facteur amenant des entreprises japonaises à s'installer à
l'étranger. La représentante a invité le gouvernement japonais à soutenir les propositions formuléesdans le cadre des négociations de l'OMC sur les services pour réduire les restrictions actuelles ainsi
que les propositions visant à améliorer les pratiques réglementaires dans les diverses industries afin
d'assurer que les réglementations nationales n'aillent pas à l'encontre des efforts d'ouverture des
marchés.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 19
90. La représentante a accueilli avec satisfaction les mesures prises pour accroître la transparence
du régime réglementaire japonais.
91. Selon une étude de l'Agence de planification japonaise, en 2000, les mesures de
déréglementation mises en œuvre depuis 1989 avaient permis aux consommateurs japonais
d'économiser quelque 82 milliards de dollars en termes réels. L'étude avait par ailleurs trouvé quedans la seule année 1998, une famille japonaise moyenne de quatre personnes avait économisé
environ 450 dollars en frais de télécommunications locales et dépenses d'électricité du fait des
mesures de réforme des réglementations. La représentante a invité le Japon à renouveler son
engagement en faveur des réformes pour montrer que les pouvoirs publics étaient résolus à redresser
l'économie japonaise.
92. Les États-Unis étaient encouragés par la nouvelle récente que le gouvernement du Premier
Ministre Mori accordait un haut degré de priorité à l'encouragement d'une révolution des technologiesde l'information au Japon dans les cinq ans. La représentante partageait l'avis exprimé dans le rapport
du gouvernement selon lequel les technologies de l'information seraient l'une des principales forces
qui façonneraient le XXI
e siècle. Il n'y avait pas de meilleure manière pour le Japon de démontrer sa
détermination à devenir l'un des grands de la technologie de l'information qu'en travaillant de manière
constructive, sur les plans bilatéral et multilatéral, notamment par le biais des travaux de l'OMC sur lecommerce électronique.
93. L'annonce par le gouvernement japonais d'une initiative majeure visant à réformer son Code
du commerce, ce qui en constituerait la première révision en plus d'un demi-siècle, aurait aussi des
incidences nombreuses sur les entreprises étrangères opérant au Japon. Cette révision devrait aider le
Japon à s'intégrer davantage dans l'économie internationale. La représentante se réjouissait depouvoir contribuer à ce processus. Cette révision complète renforcerait les entreprises japonaises et
améliorerait l'environnement commercial pour les entreprises étrangères.
94. En tant que partie prenante très présente dans un certain nombre d'accords de libre-échange,
les États-Unis reconnaissaient pleinement l'intérêt des accords de libre-échange envisagés par le
Japon. Ils suivraient de près la participation du Japon à de tels accords, notamment à la lumière despréoccupations d'un secteur particulier de l'économie japonaise.
95. Le représentant de l'Australie a indiqué que le Japon constituait depuis de nombreuses
années le principal marché d'exportation de son pays. L'année précédente, quelque 20 pour cent des
exportations australiennes de marchandises sont allées au Japon. Malgré le marasme économique du
Japon au cours des dernières années, le commerce bilatéral avait continué de croître à un rythme
modéré.
96. Les perspectives de croissance du Japon semblaient dépendre de manière critique de
nouvelles réformes structurelles visant à la création de marchés plus ouverts et transparents. Les
industries manufacturières japonaises, qui en grande partie n'étaient pas réglementées, ni protégées,
restaient très compétitives sur le plan mondial et, dans l'ensemble, continuaient à enregistrer des
bénéfices à un moment où l'économie japonaise faisait preuve d'une faiblesse relative.
97. L'Australie accueillait avec satisfaction l'initiative du Premier Ministre japonais visant à faire
du Japon, en cinq ans, un leader mondial dans le domaine des technologies de l'information et des
télécommunications. Si elle était mise en œuvre systématiquement, une telle initiative pourrait servir
de catalyseur pour des réformes essentielles dans divers secteurs de l'économie, augmenter son
efficacité et sa productivité et améliorer la compétitivité du pays sur le plan international. Le
représentant a invité le Japon à répondre aux préoccupations des Membres en ce qui concerne lesecteur des télécommunications, élément essentiel de ces réformes.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 20
98. Si la politique commerciale du Japon était dans l'ensemble l'une des plus ouvertes, son secteur
agricole était par contre l'un des plus protégés et subventionnés. L'Australie souhaitait un accès aux
marchés qui fût loyal, ouvert et équitable pour tous les produits, des réductions substantielles des
soutiens nationaux qui faussaient le commerce et l'élimination des subventions à l'exportation. Ce
n'était là rien de plus que ce que le Japon cherchait à obtenir des autres pays pour ses exportationsd'articles manufacturés et de services.
99. L'Australie encourageait le gouvernement japonais et les groupes de pression du secteur
agricole à rechercher de nouvelles solutions aux problèmes anciens et à envisager de nouvelles
possibilités et des solutions alternatives. Dans la mesure où il avait des préoccupations légitimes de
caractère non commercial concernant l'agriculture, le Japon se devait de coopérer avec les autres pays
dans le cadre de négociations visant à trouver, pour la poursuite de ses objectifs, des moyens
n'entraînant pas de distorsion de la production et ne faussant pas le commerce. Le représentant, tout
en admettant les divers objectifs politiques du Japon, considérait que l'emploi d'instruments politiques
protectionnistes qui en faisaient porter le poids à d'autres pays, était inéquitable et en fin de compte
insoutenable.
100. Il encourageait le Japon à s'engager pleinement dans les négociations en cours sur les
services. L'élimination des obstacles superflus et restants, notamment dans les services juridiques etfinanciers, favoriserait un plus grand dynamisme de ces services et renforcerait la croissance
économique du Japon.
101. L'Australie reconnaissait le rôle potentiel des accords de libre-échange envisagés par le Japon
s'agissant de soutenir la libéralisation du commerce multilatéral, mais se préoccupait des distorsions
possibles des flux commerciaux et des flux d'investissements au détriment des autres pays. Il invitaitle Japon à veiller à ce que des tierces parties ne soient pas lésées du fait de la conclusion de tels
accords.
102. L'Australie estimait qu'il fallait s'engager le plus tôt possible en faveur d'un nouveau cycle de
négociations commerciales multilatérales. Ce message se trouvait renforcé par la réunion des
Ministres de l'APEC qui s'était tenue au Brunei. Aussi le représentait invitait-il le Japon à se joindreaux efforts des autres Membres en vue d'accélérer les travaux sur les droits industriels dans le cadre
des préparatifs pour le lancement, le plus tôt possible, d'un nouveau cycle de négociations. Le fait
qu'une grande puissance industrielle comme le Japon ne participât pas activement à ces travaux
soulevait des questions quant à son engagement en faveur d'un nouveau cycle et affaiblissait une
activité qui devait être au cœur des activités de l'OMC.
103. Le représentant de l'Union européenne a déclaré que, pour l'UE, les liens politiques avec le
Japon demeuraient extrêmement importants et ne pouvaient que se développer. Le fait qu'ils étaient
unis dans les efforts en faveur d'un nouveau cycle de négociations commerciales globales revêtait une
importance cruciale.
104. Signe de l'approfondissement et de l'ampleur croissants de l'ensemble de leurs relations
politiques, les deux partenaires avaient décidé lors du neuvième sommet entre l'UE et le Japon, qui
s'était tenu à Tokyo en juillet 2000, de faire progresser considérablement leur coopération. Ils avaiententrepris la révision de leur Déclaration politique de 1991 et l'élaboration d'un Plan d'action pour le
renforcement de leur coopération dans les dix années à venir.
105. Conjointement, l'UE et le Japon représentaient environ les deux cinquièmes de l'économie
mondiale. Les échanges commerciaux bilatéraux atteignaient pratiquement 100 milliards d'euros par
an. Avec le ralentissement prévu de la croissance américaine à court terme, les perspectives del'économie mondiale et du commerce mondial dépendraie nt de manière décisive de la capacité de l'UE
et du Japon à maintenir conjointement une expansion de l'activité économique dans la stabilité. L'UEWT/TPR/M/76
Page 21
et le Japon constituaient aussi des marchés importants pour leurs investissements mutuels, l'UE étant
intervenue, selon les estimations, pour 59 pour cent du total des IED au Japon en 1999.
106. Les investissements de l'UE au Japon avaient fortement augmenté en 1999, mais il n'était pas
certain que cette tendance se poursuivrait. L'UE se préoccupait des risques d'élargissement du fossé
avec le Japon en matière d'investissement. Les coûts élevés et la surréglementation constituaienttoujours de puissants facteurs dissuasifs pour les entreprises européennes désireuses d'investir au
Japon, ce qui les privait de certains débouchés et privait les consommateurs et les opérateurs
économiques japonais d'un accès à des produits et services européens compétitifs. Dans ce contexte,
les investissements étrangers au Japon tendaient à se concentrer dans les secteurs qui avaient bénéficié
ou étaient en train de bénéficier d'une déréglementation importante. Les services financiers, qui
avaient enregistré un afflux considérable de capitaux étrangers dans le cadre du "Big Bang", en étaient
un exemple instructif. La poursuite réussie de la déréglementation était l'élément-clé des efforts duJapon visant à améliorer les conditions d'investissement pour les étrangers. Les mesures que
proposait l'UE profiteraient aussi aux opérateurs nationaux. Le taux de création d'entreprises du
Japon était de 4,6 pour cent, soit le plus bas des principaux pays industrialisés (contre 13 pour cent,
par exemple, pour le Royaume-Uni et 11 pour cent pour l'Allemagne).
107. Les tentatives visant à accroître la concurrence dans l'économie japonaise constituaient un
élément majeur du processus de réforme des réglementations. Des progrès avaient été accomplis dans
un certain nombre de domaines, mais des efforts supplémentaires seraient nécessaires pour aboutir à
une mise en œuvre plus dynamique et des sanctions plus dissuasives. Dans le cadre des accords de
coopération internationale entre la FTC et les autorités chargées de la concurrence de l'UE ainsi que
des États-Unis, l'UE espérait que la FTC utiliserait tous les moyen légaux à sa disposition et que legouvernement japonais veillerait à une application plus vigoureuse et décisive de la politique de la
concurrence.
108. Les télécommunications constituaient un autre secteur dans lequel la mise en œuvre
déterminée de réformes bénéficierait aux prestataires de services nationaux et étrangers. L'UE
accueillait avec satisfaction les prochaines réductions des tarifs d'interconnexion, mais ce n'était làqu'une première étape. Il fallait maintenant des mesures permettant à la concurrence de jouer
librement dans le secteur des télécommunications, ce qui signifiait une réécriture de la réglementation
relative au prestataire désigné afin de refléter réellement la domination du Groupe NTT et de
NTT DoCoMo sur le marché. Comme cela avait été recommandé dans l'AGCS de l'OMC, il était
essentiel de créer un organisme indépendant et impartial de réglementation des télécommunications.
109. Les partenariats entre avocats japonais et étrangers et l'emploi d'avocats japonais par des
avocats étrangers étaient interdits. Dans la pratique, cela empêchait la création au Japon de cabinetsjuridiques internationaux intégrés en mesure de fournir aux clients les conseils dont ils avaient besoin
pour des affaires multijuridictionnelles, comme les émissions de valeurs et les fusions ou acquisitions.
Cela avait aussi des incidences négatives sur les investissements au Japon et l'économie dans son
ensemble. L'abolition des restrictions en matière de partenariat et d'emploi entre avocats japonais et
avocats étrangers autorisés à exercer au Japon serait à recommander.
110. Le Japon maintenait des volumes limités de contingents tarifaires sur le cuir et la complexité
du régime de contingentement créait un mur de protection, restreignait en pratique l'accès au marché
et protégeait l'industrie nationale du cuir des importations plus compétitives en provenance de l'UE.
Celle-ci invitait le Japon à modifier sensiblement son système de contingentement et à s'engager à
éliminer progressivement ces restrictions à l'importation.
111. En tant qu'acteurs de premier plan du commerce international, l'UE et le Japon étaient
parvenus aux mêmes conclusions sur les moyens de mettre à profit la mondialisation dans l'intérêt des
pays en développement aussi bien que des pays développés: libéralisation du commerce, adaptationWT/TPR/M/76
Page 22
des règles de l'OMC aux réalités économiques actuelles, pleine intégration des pays en développement
dans l'économie mondiale et prise en compte des attentes de la société civile dans le monde.
112. Le représentant de la République de Corée a mentionné que le commerce bilatéral entre son
pays et le Japon s'était élevé à 40 milliards de dollars en 1999 et augmenterait en 2000. Il espérait
qu'il continuerait à se développer et que les deux pays continueraient à rechercher les moyensd'approfondir leur coopération économique à moyen et long terme.
113. La République de Corée avait un déficit commercial avec le Japon depuis les années 60. Pour
corriger cette situation, le représentant espérait que le gouvernement japonais améliorerait l'accès des
produits coréens à son marché par des réductions de droits de douane et des mesures non tarifaires sur
les produits intéressant la Corée.
114. La République de Corée, comme le Japon, était en faveur du lancement à une date rapprochée
d'un cycle de négociations commerciales multilatérales, dont l'ordre du jour serait suffisamment largepour permettre la prise en compte des intérêts des différents Membres. Comme lui, elle estimait que
le nouveau cycle devait notamment porter sur les règles antidumping et les règles multilatérales
d'investissement ainsi que le commerce électronique.
115. Elle partageait la philosophie à la base de la politique agricole du Japon, laquelle mettait
l'accent sur quatre principes de base: un approvisionnement en produits alimentaires stable, le rôlemultifonctionnel de l'agriculture, le développement durable de l'agriculture et le développement des
zones rurales. Elle soutenait les directives japonais es en matière de taux d'autosuffisance alimentaire
figurant dans son Plan fondamental; chaque pays devait avoir le droit, pour assurer sa sécurité
alimentaire, de chercher à établir un rapport optimal entre sa propre production et ses importations de
produits agricoles. La Corée partageait aussi l'avis du Japon selon lequel l'agriculture avait descaractéristiques et un rôle uniques dans chaque société et que la discipline imposée en matière de
commerce international devait être suffisamment souple pour permettre la coexistence de divers types
d'agriculture.
116. Le faible taux moyen des droits NPF appliqués par le Japon traduisait ses efforts continus en
vue de réduire l'ensemble de ses taux de droits de douane. Toutefois, le Japon continuait à maintenirdes droits de douane élevés sur certains produits présentant un intérêt particulier pour la Corée. Le
représentant souhaitait savoir si le Japon prévoyait de réduire les droits de douane sur ces produits. Il
a demandé pourquoi la part des fournisseurs étrangers dans les marchés publics japonais n'avait pas
dépassé 5,6 pour cent en 1997 (rapport du Secrétariat, page 59). Il souhaitait aussi en savoir
davantage sur les mesures prises par le Japon pour encourager la participation des étrangers aux
appels d'offres concernant ses marchés publics.
117. En mai 2001, le Japon lancerait un système de recyclage des appareils électroménagers, qui
ferait supporter des coûts plus importants aux fabricants étrangers qu'aux fabricants japonais, du fait
qu'ils devraient confier leurs activités de recyclage à des entreprises locales, lesquelles faisaient payer
davantage pour recycler des biens manufacturés à l'étranger. Le représentant a demandé au Japon de
se pencher sur cette difficulté rencontrée par les fabricants étrangers.
118. Le représentant de l'Argentine a fait remarquer que certaines difficultés, telles que chômage,
déficit budgétaire et dette publique élevés, persisteraient en l'absence de réformes structurelles plus
agressives qui renforceraient la concurrence.
119. Les niveaux des droits de douane sur les produits agricoles étaient sous-estimés en raison de
l'absence d'équivalents ad valorem pour certains d'entre eux; ces équivalents ne pouvaient pas être
calculés pour certains produits parce que ceux-ci ne faisaient l'objet d'aucune importation, ce quiindiquerait que les droits correspondants pouvaient être prohibitifs.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 23
120. Le coût élevé des intrants agricoles contribuait à inciter les industries de transformation
agroalimentaires à s'installer à l'étranger. Les consommateurs en général supportaient une part des
incidences très négatives de l'aide aux agriculteurs. Ces pratiques affectaient et faussaient
profondément le commerce international dans le secteur agricole. Le revenu brut de l'agriculture, y
compris les subventions, était trois fois plus élevé qu'il ne l'aurait été sans ces dernières. Les dépensesbudgétaires avaient augmenté en même temps que le soutien des prix des produits agricoles, pour
atténuer les effets du Cycle d'Uruguay sur l'économie nationale.
121. L'Argentine souhaitait conclure aussi rapidement que possible des négociations poussées pour
permettre l'accès au marché japonais de ses fruits frais, notamment de ses agrumes.
122. Le représentant du Canada a indiqué que, comme l'avait montré l'expérience de son pays, les
accords régionaux et bilatéraux de libre-échange pouvaient être complémentaires de la libéralisation
du commerce multilatéral. Il était confiant que l'engagement du Japon envers l'OMC ne faiblirait pasà mesure que sa politique commerciale se diversifierait.
123. Le Canada souhaitait obtenir davantage de détails sur le nouveau plan d'action pour la
réforme des réglementations prévu pour le printemps de 2001 et était particulièrement satisfait des
mesures prises par le Japon pour adopter, en matière de bâtiment, des normes fondées sur les
performances et de la récente révision de la Loi sur les normes agricoles qui permettait à desorganismes étrangers d'obtenir le statut d'organisme de certification accrédité. Le Canada collaborait
avec le Japon pour assurer que des organismes canadiens pussent obtenir cette accréditation dès que
possible et accueillait avec satisfaction l'introduction d'autres normes fondées sur les performances
dans les codes relatifs aux risques d'incendie, l'élimination des restrictions de taille superflues en ce
qui concerne les maisons en bois et les techniques de prévention et de lutte contre les incendies.
124. En matière de télécommunications, l'expérience du Canada était qu'un régime
d'interconnexion libéralisé et un marché concurrentiel sain pour la fourniture de lignes dédiées
contribuaient à la croissance d'Internet, du commerce électronique et des industries de l'information.
Le Canada était encouragé par le fait que le Japon se penchait sur la question des coûts
d'interconnexion élevés et attendait avec impatience de nouveaux progrès en ce qui concerne lestravaux du Groupe d'étude du Ministère des postes et télécommunications.
125. L'Agence des services financiers (ASF), dont l'orientation dans la déréglementation des
services financiers était certes positive, pouvait faire davantage de progrès dans l'amélioration de la
transparence. En faisant connaître plus clairement ses plans et mesures individuelles de
réglementation tant au public qu'aux institutions qu'elle supervisait, l'ASF pouvait accroître l'efficacité
et la stabilité des services financiers et encourager davantage l'internationalisation de ce marché de
plus en plus intégré.
126. En ce qui concerne les conditions d'investissement au Japon, les entreprises canadiennes
avaient exprimé leur frustration croissante à propos du marché actuel des services juridiques. Le
Canada invitait le Japon à prendre en compte attentivement ses propositions de levée des restrictions à
l'égard des avocats étrangers. En outre, comme le rapport du Secrétariat mentionnait la négociation
par le Japon avec certains de ses partenaires commerciaux d'accords portant sur la sécurité sociale, leCanada espérait lancer des négociations dans ce domaine avec le Japon dès que possible.
127. Le Canada renouvelait son appel pour une réduction des droits de douane, notamment sur les
huiles végétales (en particulier le canola), les aliments transformés, les produits forestiers, les viandes
rouges, le poisson, les métaux non ferreux et les chaussures en cuir. Un exemple frappant était celui
des importations de bois d'œuvre d'épicéa-pin-sapin, mentionnées de manière plus détaillée dans lescommentaires du représentant de la Nouvelle-Zélande.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 24
128. Le représentant du Pérou a souligné que le Japon était l'un des plus importants partenaires
commerciaux de son pays et son principal partenaire en Asie. Le Pérou avait par ailleurs reçu
d'importants investissements dans les activités de production et les services.
129. Le représentant a demandé des éclaircissements sur la question de savoir si la réforme
structurelle avait donné des résultats positifs. Il voulait savoir si le gouvernement japonais entendaitapprofondir cette réforme à moyen terme.
130. En ce qui concerne la structure tarifaire, il souhaitait connaître les intentions du Japon en
matière de réduction de la progressivité des droits de douane. Il voulait également savoir si les
syndicats et les associations de consommateurs avaient été consultés ou participaient à un processus
quelconque d'ajustement des taux de droits.
131. Le soutien apporté par le Japon à son agriculture, qui était supérieur à la moyenne de l'OCDE,
réduisait le pouvoir d'achat et le bien-être des consommateurs. Il souhaitait savoir si le Japon avaitenvisagé de substituer à son système de soutien des prix un soutien direct aux producteurs et aux
consommateurs afin de corriger les distorsions et d'accroître la concurrence.
132. Le représentant a demandé quelles étaient les conditions d'accès au programme officiel de
formation des avocats étrangers et si des exemptions étaient accordées sur une base de réciprocité
dans le cadre d'accords bilatéraux pour les services que les avocats étrangers étaient susceptibles derendre sur le marché japonais.
133. Le représentant de la Suisse a indiqué que le marché japonais venait au premier rang des
marchés d'Asie pour les exportations suisses de produits industriels, avec un montant de 3,8 milliards
de francs suisses. En 1999, son pays avait importé du Japon des produits industriels pour une valeur
presque équivalente. Il a souligné que les deux pays partageaient l'opinion que la politique agricoled'un pays devait refléter le caractère intrinsèquement multifonctionnel de ce secteur.
134. La Suisse souhaitait en savoir davantage sur la poursuite de la déréglementation et des
réformes réglementaires. Malgré le nombre considérable de mesures de réforme prises au cours des
trois années précédentes, le Keidanren avait noté qu'aucune mesure n'avait été prise sur près de
62 pour cent de ses demandes, ce qui laissait de la place à de nouvelles mesures. La Suisse souhaitaitrecevoir plus de renseignements sur le nouveau Programme triennal pour la poursuite de la réforme
des réglementations, qui devait être formulé, et plus particulièrement sur la procédure de présentation
des demandes de déréglementation et la manière dont elles seraient traitées.
135. En ce qui concerne les importations parallèles de produits brevetés au Japon, le rapport du
Secrétariat (paragraphe 123) mentionnait qu'il n'existait "aucune législation interdisant les
importations parallèles au Japon de produits protégés par des droits de propriété intellectuelle. En
outre, une décision de la Cour suprême du Japon du 1
er juillet 1997 n'a pas interdit l'importation de
produits brevetés sauf dans les cas où des contrats de vente eux-mêmes l'interdisent." La Suisse
demandait au Japon des éclaircissements sur l'effet de cette décision de la Cour suprême sur les droits
des détenteurs de brevets au Japon.
136. La Suisse avait pris note de la partie du rapport du Secrétariat consacrée aux marchés publics,
dans laquelle il était indiqué que l'achat de biens et de services à l'étranger n'avait représenté que13,2 pour cent du total et que les soumissions concurrentielles n'avaient représenté qu'environ 70 pour
cent des marchés passés en 1997. Le représentant a demandé quand on pouvait espérer des données
plus récentes et si le Japon prévoyait une augmentation des achats de biens et de services à l'étranger
par rapport à 1997.
137. Il a également demandé des éclaircissements sur les procédures applicables aux produits ou
agences non couverts par les dispositions de l'A ccord sur les marchés publics (AMP). Il voulaitWT/TPR/M/76
Page 25
savoir si les règles et procédures relatives à la soumission, la réception et l'ouverture des offres et
l'adjudication des contrats étaient analogues à celles applicables aux produits ou agences couverts par
l'AMP et s'il existait des procédures analogues à celles de l'AMP pour la fourniture d'informations
supplémentaires aux soumissionnaires non retenus et pour les plaintes ou bien, dans le cas contraire,
dans quelle mesure les procédures étaient différentes.
138. Le représentant de la Colombie a dit que le commerce bilatéral de son pays avec le Japon
s'était élevé à 637 millions de dollars en 1999, mais qu'il avait été de plus de 1,4 milliard de dollars
en 1995. Les exportations colombiennes vers le Japon avaient diminué en 1998 et ce mouvement
s'était poursuivi jusqu'en août 2000; le taux de diminution avait baissé au cours des huit premiers
mois de 2000.
139. Les raisons principales de la diminution de ces exportations colombiennes étaient les faibles
prix du café sur le marché international et la baisse des ventes d'émeraudes, ces deux produitsreprésentant conjointement plus de 80 pour cent des exportations du pays vers le Japon. Les
importations en provenance de ce dernier étaient tombées de 1,045 milliard de dollars en 1995 à
392 millions en 1999, cette baisse étant due en partie à la chute des importations de produits de
l'industrie automobile japonaise.
140. Le Japon avait fait état des avantages des accords régionaux et du resserrement de ses liens
avec Singapour et la Corée. La Colombie espéra it que l'Amérique latine pourrait être considérée
comme un partenaire commercial potentiel dans le cadre d'un accord de libre-échange.
141. En ce qui concerne l'agriculture, la Colombie estimait que les préoccupations non
commerciales du Japon étaient légitimes mais devaient être traitées dans une perspective qui veillerait
à ne pas créer de distorsions dans la production et le commerce des produits agricoles.
142. Le représentant de l'Inde a indiqué que le Japon était le cinquième partenaire commercial de
son pays. Un accord commercial bilatéral, signé en 1958, guidait les échanges entre les deux pays.
En 1999, les échanges bilatéraux s'étaient élevés à 4 milliards de dollars, dont 1,7 milliard pour les
exportations indiennes. Il existait de grandes possibilités d'accroissement et de diversification de ce
commerce bilatéral, qui avait été gêné par divers facteurs, dont les formalités phytosanitairesconcernant les produits agricoles, l'absence de transparence des procédures, l'impôt à la source de
20 pour cent prélevé sur les services fournis par l'Inde dans le domaine des logiciels, etc.
143. L'Inde et le Japon avaient régulièrement des entretiens bilatéraux, lesquels couvraient non
seulement les questions de commerce bilatéral et mondial, mais aussi les investissements et d'autres
questions revêtant une importance économique pour les deux pays. Lors de la visite du Premier
Ministre Japonais en Inde, au début de 2000, les entretiens avaient porté sur les questions
commerciales et économiques. Le 14
ème Cycle d'entretiens commerciaux s'était tenu à Tokyo en
février 1999. Le premier dialogue entre le Ministère indien de l'industrie et le Ministère japonais du
commerce international et de l'industrie, qui avait eu lieu à New Delhi en août 1999, avait débouché
sur la création d'un forum pour faciliter les échanges d'idées entre les deux parties avec la
participation du secteur privé. Il avait aussi été décidé d'établir des groupes de travail sur les
technologies de l'information, l'agro alimentaire et les infrastructures.
144. Malgré le redressement apparent de l'économie japonaise, le Secrétariat avait noté la fragilité
du système financier, qu'il considérait comme une menace pour la durabilité du redressement, et une
certaine "lassitude des réformes" qui pouvait le compromettre. Le représentant souhaitait connaître
l'avis de la délégation japonaise sur ces remarques.
145. Il espérait que l'intérêt apparent du Japon pour les accords de libre-échange régionaux ne
signifierait pas un engagement moindre envers le système multilatéral.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 26
146. L'Inde souhaitait savoir si le Japon avait l'intention de libéraliser de manière autonome son
secteur agricole dans le cadre du processus de réforme engagé en vertu de sa Loi fondamentale, sans
attendre les résultats des négociations obligatoires sur l'agriculture qui étaient en cours. L'existence
de droits autres qu' ad valorem représentant près de 6,9 pour cent de l'ensemble des lignes tarifaires
masquait des taux équivalents ad valorem élevés. Le rapport du Secrétariat soulignait la nature
complexe du système de répartition des contingents tarifaires pour quelque 200 produits agricoles et
du système de contingents d'importation. L'Inde demandait aux autorités japonaises de revoir la
situation pour simplifier les systèmes existants de manière à ce qu'ils n'aient pas pour effet de
restreindre son commerce extérieur.
147. L'Inde invitait le Japon à étendre le traitement NPF et national aux ventes aux enchères de
fleurs indiennes et lui demandait d'organiser l'insp ection des fleurs en Inde avant leur expédition, de
manière à éviter les retards à l'entrée au Japon.
148. Les autorités japonaises avaient interdit l'importation de mangues et raisins indiens en
alléguant la présence d'insectes. Dans le cas des mangues, le traitement suggéré par le Japon avait été
appliqué et les résultats avaient été soumis aux autorités japonaises, qui s'étaient apparemment
déclarées satisfaites. Mais elles souhaitaient que ces résultats soient vérifiés par une équipe d'experts.
Trois ans après la soumission des résultats et le lancement d'une invitation au Japon pour qu'il envoieune équipe technique en Inde, les autorités japonaises n'avaient pas encore répondu. Le représentant
demandait aux autorités japonaises de se pencher rapidement sur cette question, qui était perçue
comme un obstacle déguisé au commerce.
149. Le représentant du Brésil a indiqué que le commerce bilatéral entre son pays et le Japon s'était
élevé en 1999 à 5 milliards de dollars, avec un déficit côté brésilien.
150. Les réformes mises en œuvre par le Japon s'étaient orientées vers une politique commerciale
plus libérale, mais le secteur agricole continuait à être extrêmement protégé par des droits de douane
élevés et d'autres mesures à la frontière, notamment dans les domaines sanitaires et phytosanitaires,
ainsi que par des mesures d'aide internes.
151. Le niveau des crêtes de tarifs pour les produits agricoles était particulièrement élevé dans le
cas des produits transformés. Ces crêtes de tarifs avaient une incidence directe sur l'accès au marché
des exportations brésiliennes de sucre, jus d'orange et mangues. Le Brésil invitait le Japon à
améliorer l'accès à son marché pour les produits agricoles non seulement en réduisant ou éliminant de
nombreux types d'obstacles, mais aussi en adoptant un régime tarifaire plus simple et transparent,
fondé sur des droits ad valorem.
152. La représentante de Maurice a fait observer que l'on pouvait attribuer en grande partie le
redressement économique du Japon aux mesures internes prises par le gouvernement et au
redressement économique de l'Asie. Ce dernier facteur et la plus grande accessibilité du marché
japonais pour les marchandises venues d'Asie étaient des signes tangibles d'une plus grande
interaction et intégration au niveau régional.
153. Maurice accueillait avec satisfaction la volonté apparente du gouvernement japonais de
poursuivre les réformes malgré les signes récents de "lassitude". Il était réconfortant de noter qu'àcôté de ses objectifs d'encouragement de la révolution des technologies de l'information et de la mise
en place d'une socio-économie fondée sur le recyclage, le gouvernement japonais s'attachait aussi à
créer une société vivante, moins inquiète malgré sa population vieillissante. La représentante a par
ailleurs loué l'adoption de mesures de gestion économique et budgétaire spécifiques pour traiter du
problème de la fragilité du système financier et d'une réforme structurelle d'ensemble visant à assurerla durabilité du redressement économique.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 27
154. Maurice savait gré au Japon d'estimer que les pays en développement et les pays les moins
avancés, ainsi que les économies en transition devaient pouvoir eux aussi bénéficier des résultats des
négociations multilatérales. Ce partage équitable n'était possible que si l'on reconnaissait les réalités
économiques diverses des Membres de l'OMC et faisait preuve d'une volonté commune de couvrir les
préoccupations de tous les Membres.
155. Maurice souscrivait pleinement aux quatre principes de base énoncés par le Japon pour
l'élaboration de sa politique agricole; il s'agissait d'objectifs importants qu'il fallait atteindre aussi
dans le contexte plus large des négociations.
156. Le représentant de la Hongrie a félicité le Japon pour les mesures de libéralisation et de
déréglementation qui avaient été prises et attendait av ec intérêt, en particulier, la libéralisation de la
distribution du vin, qui semblait avoir été repoussée de plus d'un an.
157. Selon les données des autorités vétérinaires et phytosanitaires hongroises, le Japon avait
supprimé l'interdiction d'importation de viande fraîche hongroise en 1999; il espérait prochainement
des mesures analogues pour les fruits et légumes frais.
158. La Hongrie accueillait avec satisfaction l'évolution marquée de l'approche japonaise en
matière d'ACR et s'attendait de ce fait à ce que le Japon exprime encore davantage son soutien à
l'accession de la Hongrie à l'UE.
159. Le Japon était pour la Hongrie un important partenaire économique, se plaçant au neuvième
rang de ses partenaires commerciaux. En 1999, le commerce entre les deux pays avait dépassé
1,2 milliard de dollars, avec un excédent écrasant en faveur du Japon. Celui-ci était une importante
source d'IED pour la Hongrie. Le représentant espérait que les liens d'investissement entre les deux
pays se développeraient et que les flux commerciaux bilatéraux s'équilibreraient quelque peu.
160. La représentante du Brunéi Darussalam, au nom de l'ANASE, a mentionné que le maintien de
la solidité de l'économie japonaise restait une question importante pour l'ANASE, qui commerçait
beaucoup avec le Japon. L'ANASE comptait sur de fortes importations japonaises pour l'aider dans
son processus de redressement. À cet égard, elle invitait le Japon à maintenir son engagement fort en
faveur du renforcement de la croissance économi que et donc d'un redressement économique durable.
Elle était reconnaissante au Japon de la poursuite de son aide à la région malgré ses propres
difficultés.
161. Elle était encouragée par le fait que la valeur totale des importations en provenance des pays
de l'ANASE avait eu tendance à augmenter et espérait que cette tendance se poursuivrait. Elle se
félicitait de ce que le Japon se lançait dans une stratégie visant à bénéficier de la mondialisation et des
technologies de l'information. L'ANASE était confiante que le Japon continuerait à libéraliser son
régime d'importation, ce qui aurait pour effet d'accroître le commerce entre l'ANASE et le Japon.Dans ce contexte, elle a souligné le renforcemen t des relations entre le Japon et l'ANASE dans le
cadre de l'arrangement "ANASE + 3".
162. Le représentant de la Thaïlande, ajoutant ses remarques à celles de l'ANASE, a dit que le
Japon était le principal partenaire commercial de son pays, le commerce entre les deux pays
s'établissant pour les huit premiers mois de 2000 à plus de 15,6 milliards de dollars, soit uneaugmentation de 24 pour cent par rapport à la même période de 1999. Le Japon enregistrait avec la
Thaïlande un excédent commercial de plus de 2 milliards de dollars, ce qui représentait plus de 3 pour
cent de l'excédent commercial total du Japon avec le reste du monde. Le représentant a remercié le
gouvernement du Japon du rôle déterminant qu'il avait joué à la suite de la crise dans les efforts de
revitalisation de l'économie thaïlandaise par des incitations fiscales.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 28
163. La Thaïlande souhaitait recevoir des assurances que la politique multifonctionnelle du Japon
ne serait pas utilisée d'une manière qui fausse le commerce des produits agricoles.
164. Le Japon avait bien adopté depuis 1999 un régime tarifaire pour ses importations de riz, mais
la Thaïlande trouvait les droits d'importation hors contingent sur le riz prohibitifs. En outre, aussi
bien le régime des contingents tarifaires que les systèmes d'achat et de vente simultanés étaientcomplexes et manquaient de transparence.
165. Nombre de normes et de procédures imposées en vertu de la Loi sur l'innocuité des produits
alimentaires du Japon étaient plus strictes que celles prescrites par le Codex, notamment pour ce qui
est des résidus de pesticides dans les légumes frais. La Thaïlande espérait que la participation
constructive du Japon aux négociations en cours sur l'agriculture aurait pour résultat un accès plus
large au marché japonais pour les pays en développement.
166. Le représentant de la République tchèque a exprimé l'avis qu'un cycle de négociations
d'ensemble était essentiel pour aborder de manière audacieuse et équilibrée les nombreux défis
auxquels devait faire face le système commercial multilatéral.
167. L'importance de l'agriculture pour l'économie nationale était beaucoup plus grande qu'il
n'apparaissait lorsque l'on considérait la part qu'elle représentait du PIB japonais. Il accueillait avec
satisfaction la détermination du Japon à poursuivre les réformes de sa politique agricole, comme lereflétait la nouvelle Loi fondamentale concernant les produits alimentaires, l'agriculture et les zones
rurales adoptée en juillet 1999. Les principes incorporés dans la Loi ne contenaient aucune référence
spécifique à une agriculture de marché, mais il semblait, d'après les mesures déjà prises au titre de la
nouvelle Loi, qu'une telle orientation politique y figurait également. Le représentant estimait que l'on
pouvait et devait en faire davantage pour améliorer l'accès au marché agricole du Japon, tout en tenantcompte de ses préoccupations légitimes autres que commerciales.
168. Les autorités japonaises appliquaient un système d'encouragement des investissements
étrangers. Le Secrétariat avait qualifié d'anomalie intéressante l'aide fournie sous la forme de
dégrèvements fiscaux et de prêts à faible intérêt pour certains types d'importations et
d'investissements. Le représentant a demandé si la délégation japonaise pouvait faire descommentaires à cet égard et placer dans une perspective plus large l'intérêt du système japonais à
attirer les investisseurs étrangers.
169. Le représentant de la République slovaque a mentionné que son pays et le Japon partageaient
l'avis qu'un nouveau cycle de négociations devrait avoir un ordre du jour progressiste et ambitieux
afin de permettre aux Membres de l'OMC d'aborder des questions assez vastes et de les faire toutes
progresser.
170. Le représentant de la Turquie a estimé que les dispositions protectionnistes contenues dans
certaines lois en ce qui concerne le commerce de produits agricoles comme les fleurs coupées
devaient être éliminées et qu'il fallait revoir la Loi sur l'innocuité des produits alimentaires en
conformité avec les normes internationales et l'adapter aux Accords SPS et OTC de l'OMC. Il a
également invité le Japon à éliminer la complexité et les obstacles de son marché de la construction
ainsi que le traitement favorable accordé aux entreprises japonaises lors de la passation de marchéspublics.
171. Il a demandé si le Japon avait l'intention de réduire les taux élevés de droits de douane
appliqués aux textiles et chaussures, qui constituaient un important poste d'exportation pour la
Turquie.
172. Le représentant du Japon a dit que son gouvernement avait adopté des procédures de réforme
draconiennes et qu'il poursuivait cette action. Malgré la référence du Secrétariat à une possibleWT/TPR/M/76
Page 29
"lassitude des réformes", l'engagement du Japon en faveur de la réforme des réglementations et de la
déréglementation restait inchangé. Le Japon était l'un des principaux importateurs de produits
agricoles; son taux d'autosuffisance alimentaire éta it d'environ 40 pour cent. En ce qui concerne la
différence entre IED entrants et sortants, le Japon était l'un des marchés les plus ouverts en la matière
et beaucoup d'entreprises étrangères avaient réalisé de gros profits sur le marché japonais. Ellesavaient fait des efforts pour entrer sur ce marché malgré les difficultés linguistiques et culturelles; les
entreprises qui souhaitaient investir au Japon devaient faire les mêmes efforts. L'accord économique
pour un partenariat nouveau entre le Japon et Singapour serait compatible avec les règles de l'OMC.
Toutefois, les Membres n'avaient exprimé aucune préoccupation analogue lors de l'examen d'autres
accords régionaux dans l'un des comités de l'OMC.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 30
V. RÉPONSES DU REPRÉSENTANT DU JAPON ET COMMENTAIRES
ADDITIONNELS
173. Le représentant du Japon a dit qu'il se concentrerait sur les questions de substance traitées
dans les réponses écrites de son pays en se focalisant sur les commentaires formulés par les pays
membres le premier jour de la réunion.
174. Plusieurs délégations avaient relevé qu'une croissance du PIB de 1,5 pour cent était prévue
pour l'exercice 2000 et noté qu'il était assez réconfortant que l'économie japonaise donnât des signes
de redressement. Il fallait que le Japon pousse plus loin la réforme structurelle et le processus de
déréglementation déjà engagés et renforce encore la concurrence sur son marché. Le représentant a
rappelé que l'engagement de son gouvernement en faveur d'une politique macro-économique de
soutien, des réformes structurelles, de la déréglementation et du renouveau économique demeurait
entier.
175. L'activité économique continuait à s'améliorer modérément et il semblait se dessiner,
essentiellement dans les entreprises, un mouvement progressif vers un redressement auto-entretenu.
En 1999, la croissance avait été de 0,2 pour cent et on avait eu deux trimestres consécutifs de
croissance positive, en raison surtout de la demande intérieure, la contribution de la demande
extérieure n'ayant pas été très élevée dernièrement. Cependant le représentant ne voulait pas semontrer trop optimiste sur la conjoncture économique. Le marché de l'emploi demeurait difficile et la
consommation personnelle était restée plus ou moins stagnante. On n'en était pas encore à une reprise
auto-entretenue; le redressement économique restait fragile.
176. En outre, on risquait de devoir revoir à la baisse les perspectives économiques. On pouvait
citer à cet égard la possibilité d'un ralentissement de l'économie américaine et d'une hausse des prix dupétrole brut ainsi que les effets sur l'économie de la restructuration du secteur des entreprises. Il y
avait des incertitudes quant à l'extension aux ménages des tendances au redressement du secteur des
entreprises et à la diffusion dans d'autres secteurs des demandes liées aux technologies de
l'information.
177. En ce qui concerne la gestion de l'économie, le gouvernement japonais, sur la base de son
évaluation actuelle, continuerait à concentrer son attention sur le redressement économique. Dans le
même temps, il lui fallait prendre des mesures audacieuses et rapides pour changer la structure
économique du pays afin de l'adapter aux besoins du XXI
e siècle. Aussi, le gouvernement avait-il
formulé le 19 octobre 2000 un nouveau train de mesures concernant l'économie, intitulé "Politique
nouvelle de développement économique pour le renouveau du Japon".
178. Ce train de mesures comprenait non seulement des incitations fiscales expansionnistes
classiques, mais aussi une politique d'ensemble visant à promouvoir une réforme structurelle tournéevers l'avenir, incluant notamment la réforme des réglementations. Le gouvernement reconnaissait
pleinement l'importance de la réforme structurelle pour l'économie japonaise.
179. En matière de projets publics, dans la perspective de la préparation des fondements du
XXI
e siècle, le Japon avait identifié quatre grands domaines prioritaires: la promotion rapide de la
révolution des technologies de l'information, les questions liées à l'environnement et à une sociétévieillissante et l'amélioration des infrastructures urbaines. Les travaux qu'il était prévu d'entreprendre
rapidement dans le cadre de cette orientation politique de base avaient un coût global de l'ordre de
11 billions de yen.
180. Pour la mise en œuvre de ce train de mesures, le gouvernement avait décidé d'établir un
budget additionnel de l'ordre de 3,9 billions de ye n, dont environ 2,5 billions pour le développement
de l'infrastructure sociale. On estimait que ce train de mesures aurait pour effet d'accroître d'environ
1,2 pour cent le PIB réel en un an.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 31
181. Tenant compte de l'effet du nouveau train de mesures budgétaires, l'Agence de planification
économique avait révisé et rendu publique sa prévision d'une croissance économique réelle de
1,5 pour cent pour l'exercice 2000. La prévision pour l'exercice 2001 n'était pas encore disponible,
mais serait annoncée en décembre 2000 lors de la préparation du budget. Les prévisions de croissance
économique réelle pour l'exercice 2001 et les exercices ultérieurs seraient établies selon le nouveausystème de calcul du PIB, connu sous le nom de Système des comptes nationaux (SCN) 93.
182. Les taux révisés de croissance réelle du PIB résultaient de l'adoption du nouveau mode de
calcul, lequel avait déjà été adopté par un certain nombre de pays. Sur la base du SCN 93, les
nouveaux chiffres de croissance s'établissaient à +0,2 pour cent au lieu de -0,1 pour cent pour
l'exercice 1997 et -0,7 pour cent au lieu de -1,9 pour cent pour l'exercice 1998; les chiffres n'avaient
pas encore été calculés pour l'exercice 1999.
183. On s'attendait à ce que les autorités monétaires maintiennent une situation essentiellement
détendue en menant une politique monétaire souple et appropriée pour soutenir le redressement
économique sans compromettre la stabilité des prix.
184. En matière de déficit budgétaire et de dette publique brute, la situation du Japon était
probablement la plus mauvaise de tous les grands pays industrialisés. Dans ces conditions,
l'assainissement des finances publiques était un défi sérieux qu'il fallait relever. Toutefois, la prioritédu gouvernement était de remettre l'économie sur la voie d'un redressement auto-entretenu; ensuite il
entreprendrait la réforme structurelle des finances publiques, en tenant compte de questions générales
comme la structure des impôts et les systèmes de sécurité sociale, ainsi que les relations entre
pouvoirs publics centraux et locaux. Ces efforts s'inscriraient donc dans un cadre très large.
185. Le présentateur et plusieurs Membres avaient souligné l'importance de la réforme structurelle
et de la déréglementation: certains avaient repris l'expression "lassitude des réformes", en
mentionnant qu'elle risquait de compromettre le redressement économique du Japon. Mais
l'engagement du gouvernement en faveur de la réforme structurelle restait inchangé. Le
gouvernement avait fidèlement appliqué depuis mars 1997 le Programme triennal de promotion de la
déréglementation, qui couvrait une vaste palette de secteurs, dont les technologies de l'information, lessoins médicaux et la prévoyance sociale, l'emploi et l'enseignement. En outre, le gouvernement
prévoyait d'adopter en mars 2001 un nouveau Programme triennal pour l'avancement de la réforme
des réglementations et entendait continuer à faire le maximum d'efforts pour la revitalisation de
l'économie nationale par la réforme structurelle.
186. Au cours des dernières années, le gouvernement japonais avait mis en œuvre un certain
nombre de mesures visant à réformer la réglementation et à déréglementer des secteurs qui avaient fait
l'objet d'interventions des pouvoirs publics. Il en était résulté une augmentation spectaculaire du fluxd'investissements étrangers directs.
187. La déréglementation du secteur de la distribution faisait actuellement les gros titres des
journaux. La Loi sur les magasins de détail de grande surface, qui était en vigueur depuis 1973, avait
été abrogée en 2000 et il n'était plus requis dans ce secteur de test de nécessité économique (ce que
l'on appelait "l'ajustement de l'offre et de la demande"). Un certain nombre d'investisseurs étrangerss'étaient déjà lancés sur le marché de la distribution au Japon, anticipant le mouvement de
déréglementation.
188. Les dernières statistiques faisaient apparaître clairement cette tendance: les investissements
étrangers au Japon s'étaient élevés à 21,5 milliards de dollars au cours de l'exercice 1999, soit près du
double du montant de l'année précédente. Pour l'exercice 2000, les chiffres paraissaient devoir êtreencore plus prometteurs: pour les cinq mois d'avril à août le montant des investissements était déjà de
16,8 milliards de dollars, soit beaucoup plus élevé qu'au cours de la même période de l'exercice 1999.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 32
189. Plusieurs délégations ainsi que le présentateur avaient souligné l'écart entre investissements
sortants et entrants; le rapport actuel était en gros de quatre à un; si on le comparait au rapport de dix
contre un qui prévalait en 1997, on pouvait le considérer comme un résultat positif important.
190. Il avait fallu une application vigoureuse de la politique de la concurrence, combinée avec les
efforts de déréglementation. Le rôle de la politique de la concurrence devenait de plus en plusimportant, s'agissant de promouvoir une concurrence libre et loyale entre entreprises japonaises et
étrangères et de protéger les intérêts des consommateurs. La Commission des pratiques commerciales
loyales (FTC) avait activement mis en œuvre la politique de la concurrence tout en apportant des
modifications à la Loi sur la concurrence, ainsi qu'il avait été indiqué dans la déclaration liminaire du
Japon.
191. La FTC avait pris des mesures juridiques sévères, allant jusqu'aux poursuites, contre les
ententes de prix, les soumissions truquées et autres violations de la Loi antimonopole. Pour ce qui estdes poursuites au criminel, la FTC avait annoncé en 1990 une politique visant, en cas de violations
sérieuses de la Loi antimonopole, à intenter des actions criminelles qui auraient probablement une
influence importante sur les consommateurs. En 1999, 14 entreprises et 19 personnes avaient ainsi été
poursuivies dans le cadre de deux affaires. La FTC travaillait en étroite collaboration avec le parquet
avec lequel elle échangeait informations et avis. Lorsqu'elle estimait que des faits concrets justifiaientdes poursuites criminelles, elle en saisissait le parquet.
192. Dans le but de promouvoir la déréglementation, la FTC avait mené diverses activités,
notamment des enquêtes et la publication de leurs ré sultats par le groupe d'étude qu'elle avait établi.
Ainsi qu'il était mentionné dans le rapport du Japon, ce groupe d'étude avait donné des indications sur
les réformes envisagées pour certains services publics. En outre, la FTC avait formulé les directivesrelatives au commerce de l'électricité et du gaz dans le cadre de ses efforts pour établir des règles de
concurrence loyale dans les services publics.
193. À propos des préoccupations de certains Membres quant au statut de la FTC, la Loi
antimonopole établissait clairement l'indépendance du président et des commissaires en matière
d'application de mesures ou de décisions de politique et garantissait en outre leur statut. La Loistipulait aussi que le président et les commissaires étaient nommés par le Premier Ministre avec
l'assentiment de la Diète, comme cela avait toujours été le cas. Ainsi l'indépendance et la neutralité de
la FTC en tant que commission administrative indépendante continueraient à être garanties à l'avenir
par la Loi antimonopole, même après son intégration dans le Ministère des affaires générales. En
outre, si c'était le gouvernement qui avait effectué les réformes administratives et budgétaires, le
personnel de la FTC avait participé aux enquêtes. La FTC continuerait à jouer un rôle plus actif et
décisif dans l'application de la loi et de la politique de la concurrence.
194. Le Japon convenait que l'accord économique de partenariat entre le Japon et Singapour devait
être conforme aux règles de l'OMC et couvrir "pratiquement tous les échanges commerciaux".
195. Le présentateur a dit que, malgré le redressement en cours de l'économie japonaise, des
doutes persistaient quant à la question de savoir si le processus de redressement se poursuivrait de
lui-même. Les incertitudes avaient surtout trait à la fragilité de la consommation privée et au niveauélevé de la dette et des dépenses publiques. Il accueillait avec satisfaction l'engagement fort, exprimé
par le représentant du Japon, en faveur d'une politique de déréglementation et avait été rassuré
d'entendre qu'il n'y avait pas de "lassitude des réformes" et que le gouvernement était déterminé à
poursuivre son action. En matière de politique de la concurrence, la question de savoir si la FTC
resterait indépendante pourrait nécessiter un débat plus poussé. Sur la question des IED, leprésentateur avait pris note de la déclaration japo naise qu'une évolution prometteuse était en cours et
que le succès dépendait pour beaucoup de chaque entrepreneur. Pour ce qui est de l'intérêt du système
à attirer les IED, la réglementation existante se prêtait à simplification. Au sujet des accords
commerciaux régionaux, il accueillait avec satisfaction les indications du Japon selon lesquelles lesWT/TPR/M/76
Page 33
initiatives récentes en matière d'accords bilatéraux ne nuiraient pas aux engagements pris dans le
cadre de l'OMC.
196. Le représentant du Canada a fait le commentaire que l'expérience mentionnée par le Japon
pour ce qui est d'attirer les IED dans le sous-secteur du commerce de détail mettait en relief
l'importance de la déréglementation et de la réforme des réglementations. Il a demandé au Japon sescommentaires à propos de l'idée que la réforme des réglementations pourrait suivre une approche
intersectorielle plutôt que de se faire secteur par secteur.
197. Le représentant de l'Union européenne a souligné que l'une des questions-clés était la
traduction de la réforme des réglementations, des nouvelles réglementations et de leur mise en œuvre
en changements véritables ayant un effet sur l'efficacité d'ensemble de la concurrence et des réformes
dans l'économie.
198. Le représentant des États-Unis a dit que l'emploi de directives administratives ôtait toute
transparence au fonctionnement d'une bonne partie de la politique commerciale du Japon.
L'introduction de procédures de commentaires publics avant l'adoption de certaines réglementations
avait amélioré la transparence de certains processus politiques, mais le système restait limité à la fois
dans ses possibilités d'application et son efficacité. Il a demandé au Japon d'esquisser les grandes
lignes de ce qu'il entendait faire pour étendre les procédures de commentaires publics, les rendre plusefficaces et les ériger en statut.
199. Il était satisfait d'avoir entendu le Japon réaffirmer qu'aucun produit important ne serait laissé
en dehors du champ des accords commerciaux régionaux, mais souhaitait obtenir davantage de
renseignements sur la couverture sectorielle de ces accords.
200. Le représentant du Japon a indiqué, sur la question d'une approche intersectorielle plutôt que
sectorielle de la réforme des réglementations, que le Conseil de la réforme structurelle avait été établi
au sein du cabinet et que divers ministères collaboraient sous sa direction. Chaque ministère avait son
propre domaine d'expertise et de connaissances; de ce fait, une approche sectorielle était adoptée et
aucun élément intersectoriel n'avait été introduit.
201. La Loi de procédure administrative stipulait que les directives administratives devaient être
rendues publiques et la Loi sur la divulgation des informations entrerait en vigueur en avril 2001. Il
était important pour le gouvernement japonais d'accroître la transparence en matière de directives
administratives; parallèlement, un système de commentaire public avait été introduit pour les cas où
il s'avérait nécessaire de changer certaines politiques.
202. La négociation de l'accord de libre-échange n'avait pas encore commencé; elle débuterait en
janvier 2001. Le Japon envisageait un accord qui serait compatible avec les règles de l'OMC et
couvrirait pratiquement tous les échanges commerciaux. Il ne le définissait pas comme un accord delibre-échange classique, car il souhaitait qu'il couvrît de nombreux domaines nouveaux, tels que la
collaboration entre les marchés des capitaux et le libre mouvement des cadres entre les deux pays et la
reconnaissance mutuelle des niveaux d'études de certaines universités du Japon et de Singapour.
203. Le Japon avait continué de libéraliser sa politique commerciale, surtout ces dernières années,
et nombre d'industriels et prestataires de services étrangers avaient profité des occasions nées de cettelibéralisation. Dans le même temps, le Japon s'efforçait de promouvoir le processus de libéralisation
et de rendre ses mesures plus transparentes pour tous ses partenaires commerciaux afin de leur
faciliter l'accès à son marché.
204. Le Japon appliquait entièrement et fidèlement les Accords du Cycle d'Uruguay, y compris les
réductions de droits de douane, de sorte que le niveau des droits japonais continuait à être l'un desplus bas des Membres de l'OMC avec une moyenne de 1,5 pour cent pour les produits industriels.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 34
205. Le Conseil des droits de douane, qui examinait les modifications proposées, était composé de
diverses parties, dont des producteurs, des intermédiaires et des consommateurs. Les ministères
concernés consultaient aussi les parties intéressées avant de demander des modifications au Ministère
des finances.
206. L'augmentation de la moyenne simple des taux appliqués au cours de l'exercice 1999 par
rapport à l'exercice 1998 était due surtout au fait que les taux NPF appliqués de l'exercice 1998 ne
comprenaient pas les équivalents ad valorem (EAV) des droits autres qu' ad valorem contrairement à
ceux de l'exercice 1999 (cf. note de bas de page du tableau III.2 et paragraphe 24 du rapport du
Secrétariat).
207. Le Japon avait fait de gros efforts pour réduire la progressivité des droits de douane. Pour
certains produits, toutefois, il était très difficile de réduire encore les taux.
208. Le gouvernement japonais appliquait des droits autres qu' ad valorem , qui prenaient en
compte la situation propre à chaque produit, laquelle pouvait dépendre des fluctuations du marché.
Par ailleurs, les taux respectifs de droits de douane étaient fixés, quel que soit le type de droit, en
fonction de la différence entre les prix intérieurs et extérieurs, de la situation des industries nationales
et selon que des droits autres qu' ad valorem étaient prélevés ou non.
209. Le Japon ne pensait pas que le niveau d'ensemble des droits de douane devait être le même
pour les produits agricoles et les autres produits. L'agriculture avait sa spécificité propre en ce sens
qu'elle était directement liée à la survie et à la santé des êtres humains et que sa production était
fortement affectée par les conditions naturelles. Compte tenu de cette spécificité, il était difficile pour
le Japon de comprendre l'argument que le niveau tarifaire appliqué aux produits industriels devait
automatiquement être considéré comme la norme pour les tarifs appliqués aux produits agricoles.
210. Le niveau tarifaire actuel était le résultat d'une série de négociations commerciales fondées
sur des facteurs tels que les conditions géographiques et naturelles du Japon ainsi que les situations
propres à chaque produit. À la suite de l'Accord du Cycle d'Uruguay, les droits de douane étaient les
seules mesures légitimes à la frontière pour ajuster les différences de conditions naturelles et
économiques entre les pays. À cet égard, il convenait de tenir dûment compte des conditions deproduction de chaque produit ainsi que de la nécessité de maintenir la production nationale à un
certain niveau et de permettre à l'agriculture de jouer son rôle multifonctionnel.
211. Le niveau global des droits de douane frappant les produits agricoles au Japon n'était pas
élevé par rapport à un certain nombre d'autres pays développés. Selon l'OCDE, le taux moyen était de
12 pour cent pour le Japon alors que dans d'autres pays il atteignait 50 pour cent, 100 pour cent, etc.
212. La gestion des contingents tarifaires était conforme aux engagements du Japon dans le cadre
des règles de l'OMC. Les méthodes de répartition étaient choisies en tenant compte descaractéristiques de chaque produit et des conditions du marché. Elles étaient ensuite rendues
publiques par les ministères concernés; cela était adéquat quant aux exigences de transparence. Dans
ce contexte, ce à quoi les Membres s'étaient engagés dans leurs propres systèmes, c'était de donner
accès à leur marché et non de garantir un volume donné d'importations. La mesure dans laquelle les
contingents étaient remplis pouvait varier selon la situation des produits considérés.
213. Le Japon était ouvert au débat sur cette question ainsi que les questions connexes dans les
négociations en cours sur l'agriculture.
214. Les autorités douanières japonaises, pour soutenir les efforts de renforcement des capacités
sur la facilitation du commerce international et la prévention de la contrebande sociale, fournissaient
une assistance technique aux administrations douanières des pays en développement.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 35
215. Les pouvoirs publics centraux et locaux ainsi que les institutions publiques appliquaient
fidèlement des procédures équitables, ouvertes et transparentes en matière de marchés publics,
conformément à l'Accord sur les marchés publics.
216. Depuis 1985, le gouvernement avait adopté une série de programmes d'action pour améliorer
l'accès aux marchés publics. Ces mesures avaient réellement été prises volontairement et étaientconçues pour accroître les possibilités d'accès au marché japonais pour les fournisseurs étrangers.
Grâce à ces efforts, le pourcentage de marchés publics passés avec des entreprises étrangères avait
augmenté au cours des dernières années, mais le Japon n'avait pas encore enregistré d'efforts vraiment
vigoureux de la part de nombreux fournisseurs étrangers pour entrer sur le marché japonais. Le
représentant se demandait si aucun autre Membre ne publiait des chiffres analogues, car il n'en
connaissait pas; il souhaitait connaître le taux de pénétration des entreprises étrangères dans les
marchés publics des autres Membres.
217. Les données les plus récentes sur les marchés publics japonais remportés par des fournisseurs
de produits et services étrangers portaient sur 1998 et devaient être publiées au Japon à la fin de
novembre 2000; elles seraient disponibles en anglais en mars 2001.
218. En ce qui concerne les marchés publics auxquels on considérait que s'appliquait la clause
d'exception de l'article 23 de l'Accord, l'autorité passant le marché n'était empêchée de prendre aucuneaction, ni de divulguer aucun renseignement pour raisons de sécurité nationale, etc. Si une plainte
était déposée par un fournisseur intéressé au marché en question, le Conseil des marchés publics, qui
est indépendant, jugeait si elle devait être rejetée au titre de la clause d'exception.
219. Le Japon n'appliquait des mesures sanitaires et phytosanitaires que dans la mesure où cela
était nécessaire pour la protection de la vie ou de la santé des êtres humains, des animaux ou desplantes, et cela en respectant pleinement l'Accord SPS et en se fondant sur des principes scientifiques.
Dans le cadre du système de protection phytosanitaire japonais, les organismes nuisibles donnant lieu
à quarantaine étaient définis comme étant ceux susceptibles de provoquer des dommages aux plantes
cultivées s'ils devaient se répandre et appartenant à l'une des deux catégories suivantes: ceux dont la
présence n'est pas confirmée au Japon ou ceux qui sont déjà présents dans certaines parties du pays,mais pour lesquels des mesures officielles d'éradication ont été entreprises. Cette définition était
fondée sur les normes énoncées dans la Convention internationale pour la protection phytosanitaire.
220. En vertu de la Loi sur la protection phytosanitaire, l'importation de plantes pouvant abriter des
organismes nuisibles, tels que la drosophile méditerranéenne et la moisissure bleue du tabac, était
interdite. Cette interdiction était fondée sur des constatations scientifiques et était conforme à
l'Accord SPS de l'OMC. Cependant, le Japon approuv ait l'importation de ces plantes interdites si le
pays exportateur avait développé une méthode efficace pour empêcher l'invasion de ces organismesnuisibles. Si un pays souhaitait que soit levée une interdiction d'importation donnée, le Japon était
prêt à en discuter sur le plan technique.
221. Par souci de transparence, le Japon traduisait en anglais les prescriptions et procédures
relatives à la levée des interdictions d'importation et ces textes étaient distribués aux ambassades des
divers pays à Tokyo. Le Japon fournissait aussi des renseignements sur les organismes nuisibles etmaladies donnant lieu à des interdictions d'importation. En outre, il était disposé à expliquer en détail,
sur demande, les prescriptions.
222. En ce qui concerne les contrôles phytosanitaires, le nombre de demandes de levée
d'interdictions d'importation était en augmentation. Les procédures standard d'examen des demandes
de levée d'interdictions d'importation pour raisons phytosanitaires avaient été déterminées par leMinistère de l'agriculture en septembre 1999 et publiées dans le Tsusho Koho ainsi que sur le site
Web du Ministère. L'état actuel de la situation en ce qui concerne l'examen de ces demandes avaitWT/TPR/M/76
Page 36
également été publié dans le Tsusho Koho . Pour les quarantaines animales, les informations sur l'état
des demandes avaient été communiquées aux autorités étrangères.
223. Dans le domaine de la coopération technique internationale en matière de contrôles
phytosanitaires et zoosanitaires, le Japon envoyait chaque année à l'étranger quelque 80 experts et en
invitait environ 200 en provenance de pays en développement aux fins de formation et derenforcement des capacités. Le Japon organisait aussi à Okinawa des programmes de formation de
groupes aux techniques phytosanitaires, par exemple en ce qui concerne les drosophiles. Soixante-six
stagiaires de 25 pays avaient participé à de tels programmes de 1988 à 2000.
224. Des renseignements détaillés avaient été fournis en réponse à une question sur les
importations parallèles. Comme il était indiqué dans le rapport du Secrétariat, par un arrêt de
juillet 1997 concernant certains produits brevetés en Allemagne, la Cour suprême avait jugé qu'un
détenteur de brevet ne pouvait pas, dans certaines conditions, faire opposition à des importationsparallèles, ni demander des dommages et intérêts pour violation de ses droits. Toutefois, il était
prématuré de débattre en général de l'effet de cet arrêt sur les droits d'un détenteur de brevet au Japon,
car la Cour a également estimé que les droits afférents à un brevet n'étaient pas immédiatement
épuisés si le détenteur de brevet distribuait des produits couverts par ce brevet en dehors du territoire
japonais. La question de l'épuisement des droits de propriété intellectuelle sur le plan internationalétait une question délicate, sur laquelle il n'y avait pas encore de consensus, comme le reflétait l'article
6 de l'Accord sur les ADPIC.
225. Le présentateur a demandé si le Japon avait l'intention de faciliter les procédures douanières,
que de nombreuses délégations avaient décrites comme étant longues et nécessitant beaucoup de
démarches administratives. Les taux moyens de droits de douane étaient faibles, mais nombre dedélégations avaient exprimé leurs préoccupations à propos des nombreux droits autres qu' ad valorem
et des crêtes tarifaires. Il invitait la délégation japonaise à fournir davantage de détails sur ces
questions. Il souhaitait savoir si le Japon s'occuperait davantage de ces questions dans le cadre des
négociations en cours sur l'agriculture ou serait en mesure de réduire ou d'abolir unilatéralement ces
droits.
226. À propos des questions SPS et OTC, le présentateur savait gré au Japon de sa volonté de
respecter les normes internationales pertinentes, soulignant que dans l'intérêt de la santé et de la
sécurité des consommateurs le principe de précaution exigeait des normes très élevées. Il prenait note
de ce que la poursuite des discussions pourrait indiquer s'il y avait place pour des améliorations.
227. En ce qui concerne les marchés publics, nombre de délégations s'étaient préoccupées de ce
que le marché japonais n'était pas ouvert en raison des pratiques particulières des autorités japonaises,
notamment au niveau immédiatement inférieur à celui du gouvernement central. Le présentateur
remerciait le Japon de ses réponses détaillées sur ce sujet, mais estimait qu'il s'agissait là aussi d'une
question de culture: il fallait peut-être de la part du gouvernement un effort soutenu et volontariste
qui ne se limiterait pas à la réglementation, mais nécessiterait davantage de suivi à l'avenir. Il se
demandait s'il y avait d'autres questions sur ce point.
228. Le représentant de l'Inde a indiqué qu'il attendait avec impatience que soient réglées les
difficultés particulières mentionnées par son pays, notamment en ce qui concernait les obstacles aux
importations de fleurs et de fruits indiens.
229. Le représentant de l'Uruguay a souhaité entendre le Japon sur les crêtes tarifaires et les taux
des droits autres qu' ad valorem . Il voulait par ailleurs savoir quelle serait la réaction du Japon si
d'autres pays appliquaient à des secteurs, tels que l'industrie, la construction automobile ou lesservices la notion de spécificité qu'il appliquait à l'agriculture.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 37
230. Le représentant de la Malaisie, se référant aux observations du présentateur, a exprimé l'espoir
que le Japon pourrait fournir des réponses détaillées sur les procédures douanières, les crêtes tarifaires
et certains droit de douane spécifiques ainsi que les questions SPS et OTC.
231. Le représentant des États-Unis a pris note de la remarque du Japon que pour réussir sur un
marché il fallait faire des efforts; il souhaitait savoir pourquoi la tendance en matière d'adjudication
de contrats publics à des entreprises étrangères continuait d'être à la baisse. Dans quelques domaines
du secteur privé japonais, les entreprises étrangères connaissaient une assez bonne réussite, mais ce
n'était pas le cas dans les domaines correspondants du secteur public. Il se demandait si le Japon
pouvait fournir davantage de renseignements sur ce qui pouvait être à l'origine de cette tendance. Il
ne se référait pas au respect des accords, mais essayait de comprendre la dynamique économique
sous-jacente.
232. En ce qui concerne l'échec apparent des efforts du Japon visant à protéger les enregistrements
sonores contre les copies temporaires non autorisées, l'Accord sur les ADPIC reprenait l'article 9 de la
Convention de Berne, lequel établissait que les titulaires des droits devaient avoir le droit exclusif
d'autoriser la reproduction d'œuvres sonores enregistrées, quels qu'en soient le mode ou la forme.
Cela incluait apparemment la reproduction temporaire. Il demandait au Japon de confirmer s'il
assurait une protection contre ce type de reproduction non autorisée.
233. Le représentant de l'Union européenne a fait remarquer que l'adjudication de marchés publics
par des autorités autres que le pouvoir central, le traitement des soumissions, etc., tendait à réduire les
chances de succès et à interdire le cours normal des passations de marchés.
234. Sur la question des normes et de la certification, il regrettait que l'explication du Japon n'eût
pas porté sur l'attitude générale du gouvernement, et notamment sur les raisons qui expliqueraient lesdéviations par rapport aux normes internationales en vigueur. Il souhaitait savoir pourquoi le Japon,
qui avait signé l'accord sur les automobiles de 1995 de la Commission économique pour l'Europe de
l'ONU, n'avait signé que quelques-unes des conventions pertinentes. À propos de la reconnaissance
des organismes étrangers d'évaluation de conformité, il a demandé s'il y avait un effort général pour
faciliter la coopération, par exemple par un accès plus facile aux données d'évaluation de conformité.
235. Le représentant du Canada s'est enquis de la manière dont le Japon traiterait les
préoccupations non liées au commerce, soulignant que ce dernier avait très fréquemment recours à des
solutions relevant de la politique commerciale; il pouvait y avoir d'autres voies pour traiter de ces
préoccupations. Il souhaitait aussi savoir pourquoi il y avait des écarts aussi marqués dans les taux de
droits de douane appliqués au secteur du bois, comme l'avait souligné le représentant de la
Nouvelle-Zélande.
236. À propos des questions relatives aux normes soulevées par l'UE, il soutenait l'approche qui
voulait que les normes eussent une base scientifique et il espérait que le Japon prendrait en
considération, dans sa Loi sur les normes du bâtiment, les normes explicitement fondées sur les
performances, ceci pour permettre l'acceptation de nouveaux types de bâtiments et de techniques de
prévention et de lutte contre l'incendie fondées sur des données scientifiques.
237. Le représentant du Japon a indiqué que l'article 21 de Loi japonaise sur le copyright accordait
aux auteurs le droit exclusif de reproduire leurs œuvres conformément à l'article 9 de la Convention
de Berne. Le Japon, par conséquent, satisfaisait entièrement à ses obligations au titre de l'Accord sur
les ADPIC.
238. Pour ce qui est des procédures en douane, la fumigation des fleurs coupées prenait
généralement entre une demi-heure et deux heures et les retards éventuels étaient dus à la manutentiondu fret. Sur les fruits, par exemple les mangues, des entretiens techniques avaient déjà eu lieu entreWT/TPR/M/76
Page 38
l'Inde et le Japon et, en octobre 2000, une conférence réunissant des spécialistes qui avaient discuté
des données scientifiques concernant la drosophile proposées par l'Inde.
239. Le Japon avait un système de marchés publics ouvert et se demandait pourquoi le taux de
pénétration étrangère était faible.
240. En ce qui concerne les droits de douane spécifiques, il était peut-être tendancieux de
sous-entendre que les droits ad valorem étaient bons et les droits spécifiques mauvais: les droits
spécifiques n'étaient pas autant affectés par les fluctuations de prix et pouvaient être plus appropriés
pour les produits agricoles.
241. Le Japon estimait que l'agriculture était plus affectée par les conditions naturelles et que dans
le secteur manufacturier il serait difficile de tenir compte de certains éléments propres au caractère
multifonctionnel de l'agriculture, tels que la préservation de l'environnement et des sites naturels. Les
droits de douane élevés prélevés sur certains produits agricoles résultaient de l'Accord du Cycled'Uruguay. Le gouvernement japonais était disposé à débattre de l'accès aux marchés et d'autres
questions dans les négociations en cours sur l'agriculture.
242. Il existait un système de zones sous douane (Hozei), dans lesquelles étaient entreposés
certains types de fret; dans ce système, les opérations de manutention étaient confiées essentiellement
à des entreprises privées. Il n'y avait pas de longues procédures douanières: en 1998, la duréemoyenne pour faire passer en douane du fret maritime était d'environ 0,2 jour.
243. Comme cela était expliqué dans les deux rapports établis pour cet examen, le principal fait
nouveau concernant l'agriculture intervenu depuis le dernier examen de la politique commerciale du
Japon était l'adoption en 1999 de la nouvelle Loi fondamentale concernant les produits alimentaires,
l'agriculture et les zones rurales, qui décrivait les grandes orientations de la réforme de la politiqueagricole.
244. Le Japon avait fidèlement poursuivi la mise en œuvre de la réforme de sa politique agricole
sur la base des engagements qu'il avait pris lors du Cycle d'Uruguay et de l'Accord sur l'agriculture.
Parmi les faits nouveaux récents, on pouvait citer la diminution des prix d'achat officiels des
principaux produits agricoles, intervenue chaque année depuis 1997; des modifications importantesavaient été apportées à la politique des prix pour un certain nombre de produits agricoles, tels que le
riz, le blé et le soja en vue d'établir un secteur agricole capable de satisfaire la demande des
consommateurs.
245. De nombreux commentaires des délégations se ré féraient au taux d'autosuffisance alimentaire
fixé comme objectif dans le cadre du Plan fondamental publié en mars 2000. Le représentant a
souligné que toutes les mesures susceptibles d'être prises par le Japon seraient conformes à ses
engagements au titre des Accords de l'OMC. Qu elle que soit l'action du gouvernement, le taux
d'autosuffisance alimentaire n'augmenterait pas, à moins que les consommateurs ne préfèrent la
qualité et les prix des produits agricoles japonais et les choisissent. Au cours des dernières années,
dans le fil de l'évolution à long terme des habitudes de consommation alimentaire, les importations de
certains produits agricoles avaient beaucoup augmenté; cela avait conduit à une baisse du taux
d'autosuffisance alimentaire, lequel était tombé à en viron 40 pour cent, soit le taux le plus faible de
tous les pays développés. Par contre, le Japon était le plus gros importateur net d'aliments du monde,
ce qui expliquait pourquoi le principal objectif du gouvernement était d'établir une agriculture
nationale qui puisse répondre à la demande des consommateurs. Les changements de la politique des
prix appliquée à certains produits agricoles importants entraient également dans le cadre de la réforme
de la politique agricole, l'objectif étant ici de permettre aux prix de refléter la situation de l'offre et lademande ainsi que l'évaluation de la qualité de ces produits. À cet égard, le taux d'autosuffisance
alimentaire visé servait de guide aux efforts des diverses parties intéressées en vue de rendre
l'agriculture nationale plus attrayante pour les consommateurs.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 39
246. La prise en compte du rôle multifonctionnel de l'agriculture constituait un autre élément
majeur de la réforme de la politique agricole du Japon. Plusieurs pays avaient souligné que, quel que
soit l'objectif de cette politique, elle ne devait pas fausser les échanges commerciaux. Le représentant
a répété que toutes les mesures de politique commerciale prises par le Japon étaient conformes aux
règles de l'OMC. Il a souligné toutefois que, comme le rôle multifonctionnel de l'agriculture était bienreçu par le public, un certain niveau d'intervention était nécessaire pour la mettre en œuvre et, comme
ce rôle multifonctionnel était étroitement lié à la production agricole et ne pouvait pas en être séparé,
la discussion des mesures de politique agricole devait dûment le refléter.
247. Se référant au commentaire de l'Uruguay sur les négociations agricoles en cours, le
représentant a rappelé que le Japon y participait activement. Dans le cadre du processus du Conseil
général, qui avait été mené lors de la préparation de la Conférence de Seattle, le Japon avait fait une
proposition concernant le cadre des négociations sur l'agriculture. En outre, il y avait eu le15 novembre 2000 un débat extrêmement animé sur le document présenté par le Japon et 25 autres
pays à la session spéciale du Comité de l'agriculture. La philosophie de base du Japon en ce qui
concerne les négociations sur l'agriculture était que la règle du commerce des produits agricoles au
XXI
e siècle devrait permettre la coexistence de divers types d'agriculture. Actuellement, le Japon
préparait une proposition de négociation qu'il comptait soumettre au Comité de l'agriculture pour lafin 2000. Le gouvernement avait mené des consultations avec les divers milieux concernés: paysans,
consommateurs, industrie agroalimentaire et dirigeants. Il avait également recueilli les opinions très
diverses du grand public par le truchement du site Web du Ministère de l'agriculture. Il était disposé à
expliquer sa proposition et à en débattre avec les autres Membres du Comité de l'agriculture lorsque
sa rédaction serait achevée.
248. Dans le secteur des textiles, le volume des importations n'avait cessé de croître, notamment
pour les vêtements, alors que la demande intérieure était restée stagnante pendant toutes les années
1990. En conséquence, la production intérieure avait baissé et le taux de pénétration des importations
s'était établi à 60,6 pour cent en 1999, contre 34,4 pour cent en 1990. De ce fait, l'industrie textile
avait été confrontée à de nombreuses difficultés et on enregistrait une montée des pressions pour quesoient introduites des mesures de protection contre les importations sous forme de mesures de
sauvegarde transitoires. Malgré cela, le gouvernement japonais s'en était tenu fermement à l'Accord
sur les textiles et les vêtements (ATV) et metta it en œuvre de bonne foi un programme d'intégration
dans le cadre de l'ATV.
249. En outre, sur la base de l'Accord du Cycle d'Uruguay, le Japon avait mis en œuvre la
réduction échelonnée de ses taux de droits de douane, ce qui s'était traduit par une baisse importante
des droits élevés et de leur progressivité. L'industrie textile japonaise était constituée en grande partiede petites et moyennes entreprises, qui avaient été sévèrement affectées par la stagnation de la
consommation ainsi que l'augmentation des importations. Aussi était-il très difficile d'opérer de
nouvelles réductions de ces taux.
250. L'application de droits spécifiques dans le secteur des textiles se limitait à certains produits,
dont les prix du marché étaient volatiles. De l'avis du Japon, l'emploi de droits spécifiquesparallèlement à des droits ad valorem , pour certains produits textiles en nombre limité, était
parfaitement compatible avec l'OMC; aussi n'avait-il pas l'intention de changer le système.
Toutefois, le Japon n'avait pas non plus l'intention d'exclure ces marchandises de la négociation d'une
couverture globale pour autant que la négociation sur les tarifs industriels fût lancée dans le cadre d'un
nouveau cycle dont l'ordre du jour serait équilibré et suffisamment large.
251. Au Japon, les producteurs de cuir se trouvaient dans des régions qui connaissaient des
situations très difficiles en raison de leur contexte historique et social. Il s'agissait surtout de petites
ou moyennes entreprises peu compétitives sur le plan international; c'était la raison pour laquelle le
système de contingents tarifaires actuel avait été introduit.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 40
252. En matière de répartition des contingents tarifaires concernant les produits en cuir, le
gouvernement japonais avait énoncé des règles détaillées quant à la procédure à suivre, lesquelles
avaient été publiées dans le Bulletin du MITI. La liste des détenteurs de licences correspondantes y
avait en principe aussi été publiée. La mise en œuvre du système de contingentement tarifaire s'était
donc faite d'une manière équitable et transparente, entièrement conforme aux obligations du Japondans le cadre de l'OMC.
253. Comme pour les textiles, le Japon n'avait pas l'intention d'exclure ces produits de la
négociation à condition que la négociation globale des tarifs industriels fût lancée dans le cadre d'un
nouveau cycle dont l'ordre du jour serait équilibré et suffisamment large.
254. Depuis l'examen précédent de sa politique commerciale, en janvier 1998, le Japon s'était
efforcé par tous les moyens de libéraliser et déréglementer le secteur des services financiers et avait
déployé le maximum d'effort pour stabiliser son système financier. Il appréciait le fait que denombreux délégués avaient reconnu ce qui avait été accompli dans ce secteur.
255. La fragilité du système financier n'était plus une préoccupation. Dans le sous-secteur de la
banque, on avait régulièrement apuré les prêts non productifs. Dans celui de l'assurance, les
statistiques faisaient apparaître des signes positifs; le Japon avait mis au point un système pour
s'occuper rapidement des assureurs qui rencontraient des difficultés à poursuivre leur activité.
256. Depuis l'établissement, en juin 1998, de l'Agence de supervision financière, toutes les
prescriptions réglementaires avaient été rendues publiques sous la forme de décrets du gouvernement,
d'arrêtés ministériels ou de directives, lesquels étaient soumis aux procédures de commentaire public
lorsque des changements s'imposaient.
257. Le Japon avait déjà appliqué la plupart des mesures prévues initialement pour le "Big Bang".
Ces efforts avaient effectivement porté des fruits comme en témoignait, par exemple, l'arrivée sur le
marché japonais de nombreuses entités étrangères: onze succursales de banques, 21 sociétés de titres
et onze compagnies d'assurance s'étaient installées au Japon depuis mars 1997. Le Japon entendait
poursuivre ses efforts pour promouvoir la déréglementation sur la base des principes du "Big Bang".
258. Le Japon avait poussé la déréglementation dans le domaine des télécommunications. Elle
avait suscité de nombreux changements effectifs: les taux avaient fortement baissé et divers services
sophistiqués étaient apparus. En outre, on comptait plus de 8 000 nouveaux arrivants sur le marché.
259. Pour ce qui est des tarifs d'interconnexion, ils avaient régulièrement baissé. Par ailleurs,
l'amendement de la Loi sur les télécommunications de mai 2000 avait déjà entraîné la mise en place
de tarifs d'interconnexion fondés sur la méthodologie des coûts variables à long terme. On pouvait
donc prévoir une nouvelle réduction de ces tarifs.
260. En matière de diversification des accès aux réseaux, le Japon reconnaissait l'intérêt qu'il y
avait à promouvoir la concurrence sur le marché des télécommunications régionales. Il poussait
activement à la création d'un environnement concurrentiel grâce à l'utilisation des nouvelles
technologies et par la création d'accès divers aux réseaux, tels que DSL, FWA et CATV. Ainsi de
nouvelles règles avaient été adoptées en septembre 2000 sur l'ouverture des réseaux locaux, qui
fournissaient aux concurrents de NTT un moyen commode de connecter leurs réseaux directementaux lignes des abonnés de NTT pour offrir des services DSL.
261. En ce qui concerne la réglementation relative aux prestataires de services dominants, les
fournisseurs de services de télécommunications de Type-I, propriétaires d'installations locales faisant
goulot d'étranglement, à savoir NTT Est et NTT Ouest, avaient été obligés de formuler et divulguer
certains articles de leur accord d'interconnexion. Une réglementation imposant un prix plafond sur cetype particulier de services de télécommunications a été appliquée à ces prestataires de services. IlWT/TPR/M/76
Page 41
s'agissait d'une réglementation spéciale imposée aux prestataires dominants et qui ne s'appliquait à
aucun autre fournisseur de services de télécommunications. La politique qu'il était souhaitable
d'adopter pour favoriser la concurrence dans le domaine des télécommunications faisait l'objet d'un
débat au sein du Conseil des télécommunications; parmi les principales questions débattues figurait
celle du renforcement de la réglementation concernant les prestataires dominants.
262. Sur la question d'un organisme indépendant de réglementation, le Japon s'en tenait au
Document de référence, qui stipulait que "l'organisme de réglementation était distinct et indépendant
de tout fournisseur de services de télécommunications de base. Les décisions rendues et les
procédures suivies par l'organisme de réglementation seraient impartiales à l'égard de tous les
participants au marché". Le Japon était disposé à étudier diverses mesures pour maintenir un
environnement concurrentiel équitable et favoriser davantage la concurrence dans les
télécommunications.
263. La Diète avait approuvé en mai 1999 l'amendement à la Loi sur les transports portuaires, qui
était entré en vigueur le 1er novembre 2000. Dans neuf grands ports, par lesquels passaient 95 pour
cent du fret en conteneurs japonais, la loi telle qu'elle avait été amendée libéralisait considérablement
les transports portuaires et créait les conditions d'une concurrence véritable. L'amendement
supprimait le critère de nécessité économique lors de l'agrément de nouvelles entreprises de transportportuaire et le système d'approbation des tarifs était remplacé par un système de déclaration. Le Japon
estimait que ce nouveau système assurerait aux usagers un service plus souple.
264. Le système de consultation préalable était fondé sur un accord entre les associations liées aux
transports portuaires: compagnies de transport maritime, syndicats et sociétés de transports
portuaires. Ce système était utilisé lorsque des modifications des plans d'entreprise d'une société detransports maritimes étaient susceptibles d'affecter l' emploi et les conditions de travail des travailleurs
du port. Il avait été grandement amélioré, sur la base de l'accord conclu entre ces associations en
octobre 1997, si bien que le nombre de consultations considérées comme difficiles avait baissé de plus
de 80 pour cent.
265. Le Japon s'efforçait avec énergie de définir l'architecture de base d'une nouvelle économie,
fondée sur les technologies de l'information, en réunissant les connaissances et l'expérience des
personnes les plus qualifiées dans ce domaine. À cet effet, il avait créé au sein du gouvernement le
Siège stratégique pour les technologies de l'information, lequel était assisté par le Conseil stratégique
des technologies de l'information, composé des dirigeants des principales entreprises et d'autres
experts.
266. L'un des résultats de ces initiatives était que la Diète avait adopté en mai 2000 la Loi sur les
signatures électroniques, qui reconnaissait la validité des signatures électroniques sur les documentslégaux, à l'égal des signatures manuscrites ou apposées à l'aide d'un sceau. À la session en cours de la
Diète, un projet de loi était à l'examen, qui reconnaissait la validité des procédures électroniques dans
50 lois qui exigeaient la fourniture d'un document légal écrit pour conclure une transaction entre
particuliers. En outre, était en préparation un amendement à la Loi sur les contrats, qui tenait compte
des caractéristiques spécifiques des technologies de l'information.
267. Le Japon attachait une grande importance au rôle de l'OMC en matière de promotion du
commerce électronique. Aussi encourageait-il l'idée de créer un groupe de travail horizontal pour
contribuer au programme de travail sur le commer ce électronique d'un point de vue global et tourné
vers l'avenir.
268. Le présentateur, se référant aux remarques du Japon sur son taux d'autosuffisance alimentaire,
a déclaré que le taux d'un pays ayant la configuration géographique du Japon ne pouvait se comparer à
celui d'un pays disposant d'un vaste territoire, qui avait d'autres contraintes pour ce qui était de
satisfaire les besoins de sa population et entretenir les paysages. Le dénominateur commun ne devraitWT/TPR/M/76
Page 42
pas être le taux d'autosuffisance, mais plutôt l'incidence sur le commerce des mesures prises et leur
compatibilité avec les obligations découlant des Accords de l'OMC. Il a fait remarquer que la session
spéciale du Comité de l'agriculture avait été convoquée au moment où avait lieu l'examen de la
politique commerciale du Japon et demandé quelles étaient les intentions futures du gouvernement
japonais.
269. En matière de technologies de l'information et de télécommunications, une approche ouverte
orientée sur les marchés était essentielle. Il espérait une attitude volontariste de la part du
gouvernement japonais pour mieux contrôler le comportement des prestataires dominants de services
de télécommunications. S'agissant du rôle futur du Ministère des postes et télécommunications, qui se
devait d'égaliser les chances des concurrents, il estimait qu'il devait y avoir un organisme indépendant
de régulation pour assurer l'égalité des chances de tous les fournisseurs de services. En outre, les
investissement importants prévus depuis peu en matière d'infrastructures des télécommunicationsdevaient être effectués en conformité avec les obligations de l'OMC. La réglementation des services
de télécommunications devrait être allégée.
270. Le secteur des services financiers japonais se prêtaient à une déréglementation plus poussée.
Par exemple, on pouvait simplifier les conditions d'agrément dans les domaines de la banque et de
l'assurance. La transparence pouvait encore être améliorée.
271. Le transport maritime avait fait l'objet d'une certaine déréglementation et ouverture du
marché, mais un certain nombre de délégations avaient souligné qu'il y avait encore matière à
amélioration. Certaines avaient demandé une déréglementation plus poussée des services juridiques,
surtout en ce qui concerne les restrictions relatives aux partenariats et à l'emploi d'avocats japonais par
des avocats étrangers autorisés à exercer au Japon.
272. Le représentant des États-Unis a déclaré que le Japon avait beaucoup fait état des aspects
positifs du caractère multifonctionnel de l'agriculture. Dans la mesure où il appliquait des mesures
qui faussaient le commerce, il se demandait si le Japon avait songé aux effets que ces mesures
pouvaient avoir sur l'aptitude d'autres pays à profiter de ces aspects positifs.
273. Le Japon avait pris des mesures de stabilisation des revenus en ce qui concerne le blé, l'orge,
le riz et le soja, mais il apparaissait que ces mesures continuaient à isoler les producteurs intérieurs de
la réalité du marché. Le représentant se demandait comment le Japon essaierait d'accroître la
productivité de son secteur agricole, alors que sa politique continuait à isoler les producteurs des
facteurs économiques qui étaient sources d'augmentations de l'efficacité et de la productivité. Il
souhaitait par ailleurs savoir quelles nouvelles mesures de politique agricole le Japon envisageait pour
l'année à venir, si celles-ci visaient à réformer la politique des prix pour d'autres produits agricoles,
allégeant ce faisant le fardeau des consommateurs japonais, et si de nouveaux programmes de soutiendes revenus des agriculteurs étaient éventuellement prévus.
274. Dans les industries japonaises et étrangères, on continuait à se préoccuper d'une manière
générale de ce que la nouvelle Loi sur les grandes surfaces de vente au détail conférait trop de pouvoir
et de latitude aux autorités locales dans leurs relations avec ceux qui ouvraient de nouveaux magasins;
le représentant se demandait comment le MITI prévoyait de suivre l'application de la loi sur le planlocal, surtout si celle-ci était gênée localement par des directives administratives non écrites et
l'imposition de directives volontaires.
275. En réaction à la réponse du Japon concernant le système postal et les entreprises publiques, le
représentant souhaitait recevoir davantage de renseignements, notamment sur les mesures spécifiques
que le Japon prévoyait de prendre pour assurer la formulation de plans de transition et une mise enœuvre aussi ouverte et transparente que possible.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 43
276. Il se préoccupait de ce que NTT ne subissait pas encore le plein effet des forces du marché.
Lorsqu'un gouvernement détenait une part importante d'un prestataire de services, il y avait une
incitation claire à ne pas prendre de mesure susceptible d'affecter ses intérêts commerciaux, ce qui
dans le cas considéré incluait le maintien de sa position sur le marché. Les États-Unis étaient
intéressés de savoir s'il était prévu d'abandonner la situation actuelle, dans laquelle la loi exigeait quele gouvernement détînt 33 pour cent du capital. Le représentant se demandait s'il n'existait pas
d'autres moyens de parvenir à certains objectifs louables, comme le service universel et l'élimination
des abus de gestion, sans maintenir un degré de contrôle qui pouvait interférer avec la pleine
exposition de NTT aux forces du marché. NTT avait été, et continuait d'être, un acteur important de
l'économie japonaise, à l'abri des forces du marché; aussi, souhaitait-il en savoir davantage sur la
manière dont le Japon traiterait cette question.
277. Le représentant de l'Union européenne a regretté que les négociations sur le cuir fussent
reportées à un autre cycle. Il ne partageait pas l'interprétation du Japon selon laquelle sa gestion des
contingents tarifaires concernant le cuir était totalement conforme aux règles. Il espérait que de
nouvelles consultations avec le Japon permettraient de faire des progrès.
278. Il a fait observer que dans ses réponses écrites le Japon n'avait pas fourni de réponses à
certaines questions: concernant par exemple le système de liste positive d'organismes nuisiblesdonnant lieu à quarantaine utilisé par la plupart des pays de l'OCDE mais pas par le Japon et sur les
essais variétaux que l'Organe d'appel de l'OMC, le 19 mars 1999, n'avait pas trouvé conformes aux
prescriptions SPS. Il souhaitait des réponses sur ces points.
279. Il voulait savoir pourquoi le Japon n'avait pas encore mis sa législation sur la puissance des
moteurs des navires de pêche en conformité avec la norme internationale pertinente, à savoir la normeISO 3046.
280. Il souhaitait obtenir les chiffres des parts de marché détenues par des institutions financières
étrangères dans certains secteurs clés pour connaître l'évolution des dernières années ainsi que des
renseignements plus concrets sur les mesures prévues par l'ASF pour améliorer ou libéraliser le
système de notifications relatives aux produits d'assurance.
281. Il avait soulevé, en ce qui concerne la gestion de biens, une question précise sur les sociétés
de conseil en placements, qui avait une incidence sur la concurrence dans le secteur des retraites. Les
réponses écrites du Japon ne semblaient pas la couvrir.
282. Le représentant de Hong Kong, Chine était heureux d'avoir entendu le Japon réaffirmer la
primauté du système commercial multilatéral et l'importance qu'il attachait à ce que l'accord
commercial régional envisagé fût compatible avec l'OMC. Il demeurait cependant préoccupé en ce
qui concerne la couverture de tous les secteurs et espérait que le Japon tiendrait pleinement comptedes incidences systémiques de sa position.
283. Le représentant du Brésil s'est référé aux prescriptions phytosanitaires du Japon concernant la
drosophile méditerranéenne et la moisissure du tabac. Le Brésil avait adopté des mesures et méthodes
de lutte contre ces maladies spécifiques, qui étaient strictes et détaillées et acceptées par tous les pays
importateurs, sauf le Japon. Il souhaitait des éclaircissements complémentaires sur les raisons de cetteattitude.
284. À propos des obstacles au commerce de certains produits comme le soja, les préparations à
base de café, les cigarettes et les chaussures, le Japon avait précisé dans sa réponse que le taux de
droit de douane temporaire sur les cigarettes était de zéro et indiqué que par conséquent il n'était pas
correct d'affirmer que les cigarettes se heurtaient à des obstacles. En fait, selon l'industrie brésilienne,le Japon imposait des droits spécifiques à l'importation de cigarettes; cela était également indiqué
dans le rapport du Secrétariat (tableau AIII.4, page 163).WT/TPR/M/76
Page 44
285. Le représentant de l'Australie a noté que certaines questions posées par son pays sur
l'agriculture et les télécommunications étaient restées sans réponses et il souhaitait en obtenir. Des
réponses détaillées avaient été fournies sur les services juridiques, mais l'Australie était déçue par leur
contenu.
286. Le représentant de l'Uruguay a fait remarquer, à propos du caractère multifonctionnel de
l'agriculture, que pour les pays en développement cela était vrai aussi des secteurs de l'industrie et des
services, qui avaient leur propre spécificité. Si le concept japonais leur était appliqué, ces secteurs
devraient également être considérés comme ayant un caractère multifonctionnel.
287. En ce qui concerne la participation du Japon aux négociations en cours sur l'agriculture,
l'Uruguay était préoccupé par le fait que la position japonaise semblait être que ces négociations
portaient sur des questions commerciales, qui devaient également prendre en compte l'accès aux
marchés. Il apparaissait que l'article 20 établissait tout à fait le contraire: les négociations surl'agriculture visaient à contribuer à ce que l'accès aux marchés soit davantage pris en compte et
devaient aussi tenir compte de préoccupations autres que commerciales. L'Uruguay souhaitait mettre
l'accent sur ce point, car il lui importait que tout soit clair dès le départ.
288. Le représentant du Japon a répondu, sur la question de l'Accord SPS, que son pays n'avait
aucunement l'intention d'empêcher des importations sans raisons scientifiques. La quarantaine était
une question très technique et, pour certains aspects précis, l'une des solutions pouvait être de tenir
des consultations bilatérales avec les pays concernés de façon à résoudre les difficultés à l'amiable.
Le Ministère de l'agriculture s'était efforcé de tenir avec un certain nombre de pays des consultations
bilatérales sur la fumigation et d'autres questions et certaines mesures avaient déjà été prises.
289. Le Japon avait accéléré ses efforts pour mettre ses normes et règlements techniques en
conformité avec les normes internationales. Aux termes de l'Accord OTC, une certaine flexibilité
était permise; le Japon avait tenu compte des facteurs climatiques et géographiques fondamentaux.
Néanmoins, il ferait le maximum pour que ses normes puissent être mises en conformité avec les
normes internationales.
290. Aux termes de l'article 30 de la Loi sur l'agriculture, qui traite de la formation des prix des
produits agricoles et de la stabilisation des exploitations agricoles, l'État "prendra les mesures
nécessaires pour permettre aux prix des produits agricoles de refléter la situation réelle de l'offre et de
la demande et les critères de qualité afin de promouvoir une production agricole répondant aux
exigences des consommateurs".
291. En ce qui concerne la part de marché des sociétés étrangères dans les services financiers, il
n'existait pas de données officielles, mais environ le dixième du marché de l'assurance était passé aux
mains de compagnies étrangères. Une réponse plus détaillée exigerait des recherches.
292. La question de NTT avait été débattue au Conseil des télécommunications et le gouvernement
avait décidé de conserver 33 pour cent des parts de la société afin d'assurer un service universel, etc.
Le représentant n'était pas en mesure de fournir une réponse précise sur la manière dont évoluerait la
réglementation sur les télécommunications. Le gouvernement avait respecté les règles de l'AGCS. Le
Ministère des postes et télécommunications était une entité et NTT en était une autre. L'organisme
de régulation était distinct et indépendant de tout prestataire de services de télécommunications de
base et ses décisions et procédures devaient être impartiales à l'égard de tous les acteurs du marché.
293. En ce qui concerne la question soulevée par la délégation de l'UE à propos des
recommandations du Groupe d'experts relatives aux contrôles SPS, le Japon estimait que les mesures
ayant fait l'objet des recommandations du Groupe d'experts et du rapport de l'Organe d'appel avaientété abolies à compter du 31 décembre 1999; le gouvernement japonais avait entrepris des
consultations avec les États-Unis sur les mesures destinées à les remplacer. Contrairement auxWT/TPR/M/76
Page 45
pommes françaises, les oranges d'Espagne n'avaient pas fait l'objet de la mesure en question. Le
Japon avait fourni une explication claire dans ses réponses écrites. Il en allait de même pour les
questions soulevées par l'UE à propos des dispositions de l'Accord OTC sur les moteurs de navires de
pêche et les raisons pour lesquelles le Japon n'avait pas adopté la méthode de la "liste positive" pour
les contrôles SPS.
294. En ce qui concerne l'argument que le caractère multifonctionnel invoqué par le Japon nuisait
au caractère multifonctionnel d'autres pays, notamment des pays en développement, le Japon, en tant
que principal importateur net du monde, était le meilleur client de nombreux pays exportateurs de
produits agricoles. La discussion ou l'invocation d'un caractère multifonctionnel n'était pas
nécessairement ce qui faisait du tort à quelques pays en développement, notamment ceux qui
exportaient des produits agricoles. Les pays en développement avaient indiqué que les négociations
du Cycle d'Uruguay n'avaient pas entraîné une forte augmentation de leurs exportations de produitsagricoles outre-mer, mais seulement un accroissement des exportations agricoles d'un nombre limité
de pays.
295. Il avait été mentionné qu'il n'était pas approprié pour le Japon de comparer son faible taux
d'autosuffisance alimentaire à celui des grands pays agricoles. Cependant, par rapport aux principaux
exportateurs de produits agricoles ou aux autres pays développés comme l'Allemagne, leRoyaume-Uni et la Suisse, le taux d'autosuffisance alimentaire du Japon était extrêmement bas. Pour
les céréales, il était de 29 pour cent, alors que le Royaume-Uni, l'Allemagne et la Suisse avaient
respectivement un taux de 130, 118 et 70 pour cent et la France un taux de 198 pour cent.
296. Aux termes de la Loi concernant les mesures sur les magasins de détail de grande surface
pour la préservation de l'environnement, le MITI avait établi une directive détaillée définissant desnormes nationales pour réglementer les entités souhaitant établir un magasin de détail de grande
surface sur le plan de la protection de l'environnement, par exemple en matière de circulation et de
bruit. Le MITI suivait de près la mise en œuvre de la loi par les autorités locales pour assurer que ses
objectifs fussent respectés. Le MITI prenait les mesures appropriées conformément à la Loi sur
l'autonomie locale, notamment en fournissant des conseils et recommandations techniques auxautorités locales pour l'application de la loi. Le MITI publiait aussi les renseignements nécessaires à
la mise en œuvre.
297. Sur la question des moteurs de navires de pêche, le gouvernement japonais s'efforçait de
mettre ses normes en conformité avec les normes internationales. Le représentant n'était pas certain
de la mesure dans laquelle cette question avait été étudiée par son gouvernement et y reviendrait
ultérieurement.WT/TPR/M/76
Page 46
VI. REMARQUES FINALES DU PRÉSIDENT
298. Le Président a dit que le débat sur la politique commerciale du Japon avait été ouvert et riche
d'enseignements. Les Membres étaient encouragés par les signes de redressement économique du
Japon, dont la prospérité était importante pour la poursuite du redressement de la région, la santé de
l'économie mondiale et l'expansion du commerce international. Les Membres attribuaient en grandepartie ce début de redressement à la politique macro-économique et aux réformes structurelles du
pays. Dans le même temps, ils reconnaissaient que le système commercial multilatéral avait contribué
à améliorer les perspectives économiques du Japon, en maintenant les marchés étrangers ouverts à ses
exportations. Tout en louant les efforts récents du Japon dans le sens de la déréglementation et ses
autres mesures structurelles, dont l'élimination des obstacles à la présence d'entreprises étrangères, les
Membres invitaient instamment le Japon à poursuivre son processus de réforme et à améliorer l'accès
à ses marchés pour les biens et les services.
299. Les Membres avaient exprimé au Japon leur satisfaction pour sa participation active aux
travaux de l'OMC. Beaucoup avaient souligné que leurs relations bilatérales en matière de commerce
et d'investissement s'étaient renforcées au cours de la période récente. Notant la volonté accrue du
Japon d'étudier les possibilités d'accords commerciaux bilatéraux, ils avaient demandé (et obtenu)
l'assurance que ces accords fussent conformes aux règles de l'OMC.
300. En matière de politique commerciale et de politiques connexes, les Membres avaient
notamment fait des observations sur la complexité de la structure tarifaire (et des contingents
tarifaires) du Japon et le fait que le recours à des droits autres qu' ad valorem semblait dissimuler des
taux appliqués élevés. Certains Membres avaient aussi exprimé leur préoccupation devant la
complexité et le manque apparent de transparence des procédures concernant les marchés publics. Enoutre, de nombreux Membres étaient préoccupés par la complexité des règlements sanitaires et
phytosanitaires du Japon et notamment de ses procédures de quarantaine. Par ailleurs, soulignant le
faible niveau des entrées d'investissements étrangers directs (IED), les Membres avaient accueilli avec
satisfaction les efforts du Japon visant à ouvrir davantage son régime IED.
301. Pour ce qui est des politiques sectorielles, les Membres avaient noté que le niveau de soutien
interne de l'agriculture était disproportionné par rapport à sa part du PIB. Les Membres
reconnaissaient généralement qu'il existait des préoccupations non commerciales relatives à
l'agriculture, mais certains avaient invité le Japon (l'un des plus grands importateurs mondiaux de
produits agricoles) à traiter ces préoccupations d'une manière qui ne faussât pas indûment le
commerce international. Ils avaient reconnu que des réformes importantes avaient été entreprises
dans les secteurs des services financiers et des télécommunications, mais estimé que les réformes
devaient se poursuivre afin d'améliorer la concurrence. Ils avaient aussi invité le Japon à étendre lesréformes à d'autres secteurs, tels que l'agriculture, les transports, les services juridiques et
l'enseignement.
302. Les Membres avaient également demandé des éclaircissements sur les sujets suivants:
- la classification tarifaire et les taux de droits de douane élevés pour certains produits;
- l'opacité et la complexité des contingents tarifaires et des restrictions quantitatives;- la mise en conformité des normes nationales avec les normes internationales;
- la réforme des normes et des réglementations relatives à l'environnement;
- la politique de la concurrence;
- la nouvelle politique agricole définie par la Loi fondamentale concernant les produits
alimentaires, l'agriculture et les zones rurales;WT/TPR/M/76
Page 47
- les obstacles à l'accès au marché pour certains produits tels que le riz, le cuir et les
produits forestiers;
- l'initiative du Japon de promouvoir les technologies de l'information;
- les pratiques commerciales restrictives dans les ports japonais; et
- l'indépendance des organismes de régulation dans certains domaines, comme les
télécommunications et l'électricité.
303. Les Membres avaient remercié la délégation japonaise des réponses qu'elle avait fournies
oralement et par écrit aux nombreuses questions qu'ils avaient posées et de l'engagement qu'elle avait
pris de fournir des réponses écrites le plus tôt possible aux questions restées en suspens.
304. En conclusion, le Président a estimé que l'examen qui avait été mené avait permis aux
Membres de bien mieux comprendre la politique commerciale et les politiques connexes du Japon et
notamment sa réforme structurelle et les réformes de ses réglementations. Les Membres seréjouissaient des signes de redressement de l'économie japonaise; ils invitaient instamment le Japon à
maintenir l'élan de la réforme structurelle de manière à assurer la durabilité du redressement. Le
Président a estimé que les Membres avaient été rassurés par l'engagement du Japon en faveur du
multilatéralisme; néanmoins ils l'invitaient à veiller à ce que ses accords bilatéraux et régionaux
soient compatibles avec les règles de l'OMC. Les Membres comptaient par ailleurs sur un leadershipfort de la part du Japon dans la poursuite de la libéralisation du commerce multilatéral, notamment
dans tout nouveau cycle de négociations dans le cadre de l'OMC.
__________
| 26,185 | 177,107 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_SG_N1AUS2.pdf
|
Q_G_SG_N1AUS2
|
WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONG/SG/N/1/AUS/2
2 July 1998
(98-2630)
Committee on Safeguards
NOTIFICATION OF LAWS AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES RELATING TO
SAFEGUARD MEASURES
AUSTRALIA
The following communication has been received on 25 June 1998 from the Permanent
Mission of Australia.
_______________
Pursuant to Article 12.6 of the Agreement on Safeguards and the related decision by the
Committee on Safeguards (G/SG/N/1), Australia notifies the Committee of its laws and procedures
relating to safeguard measures.
This notification includes:
(i) a copy of the procedures for safeguard investigations as published in the
Gazette No. S 297 of 25 June 1998; and
(ii) a copy of the Productivity Commission Act 1998
Investigations are initiated by the Treasurer through a reference to the Productivity
Commission, which is the investigating authority.
The Productivity Commission was established in April 1998, taking over the functions of the
Industry Commission, the Bureau of Industry Ec onomics, and the Economic Planning Advisory
Commission. It is an independent statutory body and the Government's principal advisory body on
all aspects of microeconomic reform. A major part of its existing work is the conduct of publicinquiries into industry, industry development, and productivity. Inquiries by the Productivity
Commission are initiated by the Treasurer and its reports are required to be tabled in Parliament.
There is no specific legislation for the imposition of safeguard measures. If required, quotas
would be imposed through regulations under the Customs Act 1901 and increases in tariff through aTariff Bill or Notice thereof.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 2
ESTABLISHMENT OF GENERAL PROCEDURES FOR INQUIRIES BY
THE PRODUCTIVITY COMMISSION INTO WHETHER SAFEGUARD
ACTION IS WARRANTED UNDER THE AGREEMENT ESTABLISHING
THE WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION
1. In order to comply with the requirements of the Agreement Establishing the World Trade
Organization (WTO Agreement), and in particular the Agreement on Safeguards (Safeguards
Agreement) and Article XIX of the General Agreements on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (GATT 1994),
this notice establishes the general procedures for inquiries into safeguard action by the Productivity
Commission (Commission) in respect of a reference under Parts 2 and 3 of the Productivity
Commission Act 1998.
2. A reference under Parts 2 and 3 of the Productivity Commission Act 1998 in respect of
safeguard action will designate the product being imported and request an inquiry and report by the
Commission on:
(a) whether the conditions are such that safeguard measures would be justified
under the WTO Agreement;
(b) if so, what measures would be necessary to prevent or remedy serious injury
and to facilitate adjustment; and
(c) whether, having regard to the Government's requirements for assessing the
impact of regulation which affects business those measures should be
implemented.
3. A "safeguard measure" means a measure provided for in Article XIX of GATT 1994, the
rules for which are established by the Safeguards Agreement. A safeguards measure would be in the
form of a quota, a tariff quota, or an increased level of tariff.
Conditions
4. The Commission is to report on whether the product under reference is being imported into
Australia in such increased quantities, absolute or relative to domestic production, and under such
conditions as to cause or threaten to cause serious injury to the domestic industry that produces like or
directly competitive products.
5. Safeguard measures have to be applied to a product being imported irrespective of its source,
except:
(a) product determined to be of New Zealand origin pursuant to the Australia
New Zealand Closer Economic Relations Trade Agreement, which shall be
excluded from the inquiry; and
(b) product originating in a developing country Member of the WTO shall be
exempted from such measures as long as its share of imports of the product
concerned does not exceed 3%, provided that developing country Members of
the WTO with less than 3% import share collectively account for not more
than 9% of total imports of the product.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 3
Inquiry
6. Reasonable public notice must be given to all interested parties in accordance with section 14
of the Productivity Commission Act 1998. The inquiry must involve public hearings or other
appropriate means in which importers, exporters and other interested parties can present evidence and
their views, including the opportunity to respond to the presentations of other parties and to submit
their views, inter alia , as to whether or not the application of a safeguard measure would be in the
public interest.
7. In accordance with section 12 of the Productivity Commission Act 1998 a report shall be
published promptly setting forth the Commission's findings and reasoned conclusions reached on all
pertinent issues of fact and law. The report will include a detailed analysis of the case under inquiry
as well as a demonstration of the relevance of the factors examined. All factors specified in theseprocedures must be considered.
8. Any information which is by nature confidential or which is provided on a confidential basis
shall, upon cause being shown, be treated as such by the Commission. Such information shall not be
disclosed without permission of the party submittin g it. Parties providing confidential information
may be requested to furnish non-confidential summaries thereof or, if such parties indicate that such
information cannot be summarized, the reasons why a summary cannot be provided. However, if the
Commission find that a request for confidentiality is not warranted and if the party concerned is either
unwilling to make the information public or to au thorize its disclosure in generalized or summary
form, it may disregard such information unless it can be demonstrated to its satisfaction fromappropriate sources that the information is correct.
Determination of Serious Injury or Threat Thereof
9. "Serious injury" means a significant overall impairment in the position of a domestic
industry.
10. "Threat of serious injury" means serious injury that is clearly imminent, in accordance with
the provisions of paragraphs 13 and 14. A determination of the existence of a threat of serious injuryshall be based on facts and not merely on allegation, conjecture or remote possibility.
11. In determining injury or threat thereof, a "domestic industry" means the producers as a
whole of the like or directly competitive products operating in Australia, or those whose collective
output of the like or directly competitive products constitutes a major proportion of the total domestic
production of those products.
12. "Like product" means a product which is identical, i.e. alike in all respects to the product
under consideration, or in the absence of such a product, another product which, although not alike in
all respects, has characteristics closely resembling those of the product under consideration.
13. In the inquiry to determine whether increased imports have caused or are threatening to cause
serious injury to a domestic industry, the Commission shall evaluate all relevant factors of an
objective and quantifiable nature having a bearing on the situation of that industry, in particular, the
rate and amount of the increase in imports of the product concerned in absolute and relative terms, the
share of the domestic market taken by increased imports, changes in the level of sales, production,
productivity, capacity utilization, profits and losses, and employment.
14. The determination referred to in paragraph 13 shall not be made unless this inquiry
demonstrates, on the basis of objective evidence, the existence of the causal link between increased
imports of the product concerned and serious injury or threat thereof. When factors other thanG/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 4
increased imports are causing injury to the domestic industry at the same time, such injury shall not be
attributed to increased imports.
Application of Safeguard Measures
15. A safeguard measure can only be applied to the extent necessary to prevent or remedy serious
injury and to facilitate adjustment. If a quantitative restriction is used, such a measure shall not
reduce the quantity of imports below the level of a recent period which shall be the average of imports
in the last three representative years for which statistics are available, unless clear justification is
given that a different level is necessary to prevent or remedy serious injury.
Provisional Safeguard Measures
16. A reference can also be made to the Commission for an accelerated report to determine
whether critical circumstances exist where delay in applying measures would cause damage which it
would be difficult to repair. The Commission will report to the Minister on whether there is clearevidence that increased imports have caused or are threatening to cause serious injury. If the
Commission finds that such circumstances exist, then it will also recommend what provisional
measures would be appropriate for up to 200 days. Such measures should take the form of tariff
increases unless that would not be sufficient to prevent serious injury. The provisional measures
would be revoked when the Government reached a decision on the imposition of safeguard measuresfollowing the receipt of the report by the Commission.
Duration and Review of Safeguard Measures
17. The Commission shall also make recommendations about the duration of the measures up to a
four year period. The period is to include any pe riod where provisional measures have been in place.
18. Where safeguard measures are imposed, the Minister may refer to the Commission for inquiry
and report the question of the extension of the period for safeguard measures beyond four years andup to eight years.
19. The inquiry by the Commission to advise whether the safeguard measure continues to be
necessary to prevent or remedy serious injury and whether there is evidence that the industry is
adjusting shall be in conformity with the procedures set out above. A measure so extended is not to
be more restrictive than it was at the end of the initial period, and should continue to be liberalized.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 5
Productivity Commission Act 1998
No. 14, 1998G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 7
Productivity Commission Act 1998
No. 14, 1998
An Act to establish the Productivity Commission, and for related
purposes
G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 9
CONTENTS
Part 1-Preliminary 11
1 Short title ...............................................................................................11
2 Commencement.....................................................................................11
3 Definit ions.............................................................................................11
4 Act binds crown.....................................................................................13
Part 2-Establishment and functions of Productivity
Commission 14
5 Establishment of Commission...............................................................14
6 Functions of Commission......................................................................14
7 General power of Commission..............................................................14
8 General policy guide lines for Co mmission ...........................................14
9 Flexibility and range of working methods in
performance of Comm ission's f unctions ...............................................15
10 Annual report.........................................................................................15
Part 3-Inquiries 17
Division 1-Reference to Commission for inquiry and report 17
11 Reference of matters to Commission for inquiry ..................................17
12 Report of inquiry to be tabled................................................................17
Division 2-Conduct of inquiries 18
13 Notice of inquiry ...................................................................................18
14 Notice of hearings .................................................................................18
15 Procedure at hearings ............................................................................18
16 Written statements etc. to be made public.............................................18
Part 4-Other functions of the Commission 19
Division 1-Advice, research and secretariat functions 19
17 Requests for advice ...............................................................................1918 Minister may publish Commission's advice..........................................19
19 Secretariat services and research services to
government bodies ................................................................................19
20 Research services on re quest of othe r bodies ........................................19
Division 2-Competitive neutrality complaints 21
21 Complaints to the Commission .............................................................21
22 Discretion not to inve stigate comp laints ...............................................21
Part 5-Constitution and operation of Commission 22
Division 1-Structure of Commission 22
23 Constitution of Commission..................................................................22
24 Appointment of Commissioners............................................................22
25 Appointment of Asso ciate Commi ssioners ...........................................22
26 Terms and conditions of appointment by members...............................22
27 Outside employment..............................................................................23
28 Remuneration and allowances...............................................................23
29 Leave of absence for full-time me mbers ...............................................23
30 Leave of absence for part-time members ..............................................23
31 Deputy Chair .........................................................................................23
32 Acting appo intmen ts..............................................................................24
33 Resignation of member..........................................................................24G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 10
34 Retirement of member...........................................................................25
35 Termination of member.........................................................................25
36 Removal taken to be retire ment on ground of invalidity.......................26
37 Retirement on ground of invalidity under the Superannuation
Acts........................................................................................................26
Division 2-Operation of Commission 28
38 Role of Chair .........................................................................................28
39 Meetings of Commission.......................................................................28
40 Commission may sit in Divisions..........................................................29
41 Constitution of Division by one member in exceptional
circumstances ........................................................................................29
42 Delegation by Chair...............................................................................29
43 Disclosure of intere sts ...........................................................................29
Part 6-Staff and consultants 31
44 Staff .......................................................................................................31
45 Consultants ............................................................................................31
Part 7-Offences etc. 32
46 Hindering or disrupting Commission ....................................................32
47 Intimidation etc......................................................................................32
48 Notice to person to provide information and documents ......................32
49 Summons to person to attend hearing ...................................................33
50 Refusal to answer questio ns or produce documents..............................33
51 Preservation of the privilege against self-inc rimination........................33
52 False or misleading evid ence or info rmation ........................................34
53 Restrictions on public ation of evidence ................................................34
54 Documents produced in relation to inquiry...........................................34
55 Allowances to witnesses........................................................................35
56 Limitation of powers under this Part.....................................................35
Part 8-Miscellaneous 36
57 Protection from civil act ions .................................................................36
58 Charges for services ..............................................................................36
59 Conduct by directors, employees or agents...........................................36
60 Regulations............................................................................................37G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 11
Productivity Commission Act 1998
No. 14, 1998
An Act to establish the Producti vity Commission, and for related
purposes
[Assented to 16 April 1998 ]
The Parliament of Australia enacts:
Part 1—Preliminary
1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the Productivity Commission Act 1998 .
2 Commencement
This Act commences immediately after the commencement of the Productivity
Commission (Repeals, Transitional and Consequential Amendments) Act 1998 .
3 Definitions
(1) In this Act, unless the contrary intention appears:
Associate Commissioner means an Associate Commissioner appointed under section 25.
Chair means the Chair of the Commission.
Commission means the Productivity Commission established by this Act, and includes a
Division of the Commission perfor ming functions of the Commission.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 12
Commissioner means:
(a) the Chair; or
(b) a Commissioner appointed under section 24.
Commonwealth authority means:
(a) a body (whether incorporated or not) established for a public purpose by or under a
law of the Commonwealth or of a Territory; or
(b) a company or other body corporate in which the Commonwealth, a Territory or a
body referred to in paragraph (a) has a controlling interest.
Division means a Division of the Commission established under section 40.
government body includes:
(a) a body consisting of representatives of 2 or more government bodies; and
(b) an international government body.
hearing means a hearing held for the purposes of an inquiry.
industry means industry of any kind (including any business or activity relating to goods
or services), and a reference to industry is a reference to industry in general, a particular
industry, a part of an industry, or a group or groups of particular industries.
inquiry means an inquiry held under this Act.
member means:
(a) a Commissioner (including the Chair); or
(b) an Associate Commissioner.
subject of Commonwealth power means any matter with respect to which the Parliament
has power to make laws.
(2) For the purposes of this Act:
(a) the Chair may be referred to as the Chair, Chairperson, Chairman or Chairwoman
or by any other such term as the person occupying the office so chooses; and
(b) the Deputy Chair may be referred to as the Deputy Chair, Deputy Chairperson,
Deputy Chairman or Deputy Chairwoman or by any other such term as the person
occupying the office so chooses.
(3) If a person occupying either of the offices mentioned in subsection (2) does not make
known his or her choice of term, the person may be referred to by whichever of the
following terms that a person addressing that person considers appropriate, as the case
requires:
(a) Chair or Deputy Chair;
(b) Chairperson or Deputy Chairperson;
(c) Chairman or Deputy Chairman;
(d) Chairwoman or Deputy Chairwoman.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 13
4 Act binds Crown
(1) Subject to this section, this Act binds the Crown in right of the Commonwealth, of each
of the States, of the Australian Capital Territory, of the Northern Territory and of
Norfolk Island.
(2) Nothing in this Act makes the Crown liable to prosecution for an offence against this
Act.
(3) The protection in subsection (2) does not apply to a Commonwealth authority.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 14
Part 2—Establishment and functions of Productivity Commission
5 Establishment of Commission
The Productivity Commission is established.
6 Functions of Commission
(1) The functions of the Commission are:
(a) to hold inquiries and report to the Minister about matters relating to industry,
industry development and productivity that are referred to it by the Minister; and
(b) to provide secretariat services and research services to government bodies as
directed by the Minister; and
(c) on and after 1 July 1997, to receive and investigate complaints about the
implementation of competitive neutrality arrangements in relation to
Commonwealth government businesses and business activities and to report to the
Minister on its investigations; and
(d) to provide advice to the Minister about matters relating to industry, industry
development and productivity, as requested by the Minister; and
(e) to undertake, on its own initiative, research about matters relating to industry,
industry development and productivity; and
(f) to promote public understanding of matters relating to industry, industry
development and productivity; and
(g) to perform any other function conferred on it by this Act; and
(h) to do anything incidental to any of the preceding functions.
(2) In this section:
matters relating to industry, industry development and productivity includes legislative
or administrative action taken, or to be taken, by the Commonwealth, a State or a
Territory that affects or might affect the productivity performance of industry, industry
development, or the productivity performance of the economy as a whole.
7 General power of Commission
The Commission has power to do everything necessary or convenient to be done for, or
in connection with, the performance of its functions.
8 General policy guidelines for Commission
(1) In the performance of its functions, the Commission must have regard to the need:
(a) to improve the overall economic performance of the economy through higher
productivity in the public and private sectors in order to achieve higher livingstandards for all members of the Australian community; and
(b) to reduce regulation of industry (including regulation by the States, Territories and
local government) where this is consistent with the social and economic goals of
the Commonwealth Government; and
(c) to encourage the development and growth of Australian industries that are efficient
in their use of resources, enterprising, innovative and internationally competitive;
andG/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 15
(d) to facilitate adjustment to structural changes in the economy and the avoidance of
social and economic hardships arising from those changes; and
(e) to recognise the interests of industries, employees, consumers and the community,
likely to be affected by measures proposed by the Commission; and
(f) to increase employment, including in regional areas; and
(g) to promote regional development; and
(h) to recognise the progress made by Australia’s trading partners in reducing both
tariff and non-tariff barriers; and
(i) to ensure that industry develops in a way that is ecologically sustainable; and(j) for Australia to meet its international obligations and commitments.
(2) In the performance of its functions, the Commission must also have regard to any other
matters notified to it in writing by the Minister.
(3) The Commission, in all reports on matters referred to it, must provide a variety of
viewpoints and options representing alternative means of addressing the issues in the
report. If the report relies on formal mathematical economic modelling, the Commission
must either:
(a) if practicable—utilise at least 2 different economic models, with the assumptions
and results of those models made explicit in the report; or
(b) if it is not practicable to utilise at least 2 different economic models, appoint, and
report on the views of, an independent reference panel on the modelling.
9 Flexibility and range of working method s in performance of Commission’s functions
In the performance of its functions, the Commission:
(a) is not required to act in a formal manner; and
(b) may inform itself on any matte r in any way it thinks fit; and
(c) may consult with anyone it thinks fit; and
(d) may receive written or oral information or submissions; and
(e) may hold public seminars, conduct workshops and establish working groups and
task forces.
10 Annual report
(1) The Commission must, as soon as practicable after the end of each financial year,
prepare and give to the Minister a report of the Commission’s operations during thatfinancial year.
(2) In the report, the Commission must report on matters relating to industry, industry
development and productivity that have been referred to it, and the Commission may alsoreport on industry and productivity performance generally.
(3) The Commission must, as far as practicable, report on assistance and regulations
affecting industry and the effect of such assistance and regulations on industry and on theeconomy as a whole.
(4) In the report, the Commission must also report on the number of complaints received by
the Commission about the competitive neutrality of government businesses and businessactivities, and the outcomes of the Commission’s investigations into those complaints.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 16
(5) Subsection (4) does not apply to a report in respect of a financial year beginning before 1
July 1997.
(6) In this section:
assistance includes any act that, directly or indirectly:
(a) assists a person to carry on a business or activity; or
(b) confers a pecuniary benefit on, or results in a pecuniary benefit accruing to, a
person in respect of carrying on a business or activity.
(7) The Minister must cause a copy of the report to be tabled in each House of the
Parliament within 15 sitting days of that House after the day on which the Ministerreceives the report.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 17
Part 3—Inquiries
Division 1—Reference to Commission for inquiry and report
11 Reference of matters to Commission for inquiry
(1) In referring a matter to the Commission for inquiry, the Minister may, for the purpose of
ensuring that the inquiry is conducted in the manner appropriate to that inquiry, do any or
all of the following:
(a) require the Commission to hold hearings for the purposes of the inquiry;
(b) specify a period within which the Commission must submit its report on the inquiry
to the Minister;
(c) require the Commission to make a draft report available to the public during an
inquiry;
(d) require the Commission to make recommendations in relation to the matter;
and the Commission must act accordingly.
(2) The Commission must make a written report to the Minister on the inquiry unless the
Minister withdraws the reference to the Commission.
(3) The Minister may withdraw or amend the re ference at any time before the Minister has
received the report on the inquiry from the Commission.
(4) If the Minister refers a matter to the Commission for inquiry, the Commission may also
make recommendations in the report on any matters relevant to the matter referred.
12 Report of inquiry to be tabled
The Minister must cause a copy of the Commission’s report on an inquiry to be tabled in
each House of the Parliament:
(a) within 25 sitting days of that House after the day on which the Minister receives it;
or
(b) if the Commission recommends that the tabling of the report, or part of the report,
be delayed for a specified period—within 25 sitting days of that House after theend of that period.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 18
Division 2—Conduct of inquiries
13 Notice of inquiry
As soon as practicable after the Commission receives a reference to hold an inquiry, it
must give reasonable notice in each State and internal Territory, by advertisement
published in a newspaper circulating in the State or Territory, of its intention to hold theinquiry.
14 Notice of hearings
Before the Commission begins to hold hearings for the purposes of an inquiry, it must
give reasonable notice in each State and internal Territory, by advertisement published in
a newspaper circulating in the State or Territory, of its intention to hold the hearings, thesubject of the hearings and the time and place at which the first of the hearings is to be
begun.
15 Procedure at hearings
(1) A hearing must be held in public except in the circumstances set out in subsection (2).
(2) If the Commission is satisfied that it is in th e public interest not to hold the hearing, or a
part of it, in public because of the confidential nature of any evidence or matter, or for
any other reason, it may:
(a) direct that the hearing, or that part of it, take place in private; and
(b) give directions as to who may be present.
(3) Sections 39 and 40 apply to a hearing, so far as those sections are capable of so applying,
as if the hearing were a meeting of the Commission.
16 Written statements etc. to be made public
If:
(a) the Commission is required to hold hearings for the purposes of an inquiry; and
(b) a person gives written evidence to the inquiry or gives or produces a document to
the Commission in connection with the inquiry;
the Commission must make available to the public in any way it thinks fit the contents of
the statement or document, other than any matter:
(c) that the person objects to being made public; and
(d) the evidence of which the Commission is satisfied would have been taken in
private if it had been given orally at a hearing and the person giving it had objectedto giving it in public.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 19
Part 4—Other functions of the Commission
Division 1—Advice, research and secretariat functions
17 Requests for advice
(1) If the Minister requests the Commission’s advice on a matter, the Minister may specify
any or all of the following:
(a) that the advice is to be in writing;
(b) a period within which the advice is to be given;
(c) any matter to which the Commission is to have regard in giving the advice;
and the Commission must act accordingly.
(2) The Minister may withdraw or amend the request at any time before the Commission
gives the advice.
(3) If the Minister requests the Commission’s advice on a matter, the Commission may also
advise the Minister on any matters it considers relevant to the matter.
18 Minister may publish Commission’s advice
(1) The Minister may publish advice given by the Commission under section 17 in any way
he or she thinks fit.
(2) If:
(a) the Minister decides to publish the advice; and
(b) the advice contains information whose publication would, in the Minister’s
opinion, be contrary to the public interest;
the Minister may publish the advice with deletions.
(3) If the advice is published with deletions, the Minister must also publish the fact that the
advice is published with deletions.
19 Secretariat services and research services to government bodies
(1) If the Minister directs the Commission to provide secretariat services or research services
to a government body, the direction must be in writing.
(2) The Minister may, in writing, specify conditions on which the Commission is to provide
the services.
20 Research services on request of other bodies
(1) If:
(a) a person or body (other than a government body) requests the Commission to
undertake a specified research project for the person or body; and
(b) the project relates to a matter or matters relating to industry, industry development
and productivity, as defined in section 6; and
(c) the Minister consents, in writing, to the Commission undertaking the project;
the Commission may undertake the project.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 20
(2) The Minister may, in writing, specify conditions on which the Commission is to
undertake the project.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 21
Division 2—Competitive neutrality complaints
21 Complaints to the Commission
(1) A person may complain to the Commission that:
(a) a particular Commonwealth Government business or business activity, or a
business or business activity competing with a Commonwealth Government
business or business activity, is not conducted in accordance with competitive
neutrality arrangements that apply to it; or
(b) a particular Commonwealth government or business activity, or a business or
business activity competing with a Commonwealth government business or
business activity, should be required to be conducted in accordance with
competitive neutrality arrangements.
(2) The complaint must be in writing.
(3) The Commission is to give particular regard to ensuring the interests of users of the
service are considered in relation to the complaint and may invite submissions frominterested parties.
(4) In addition to the obligations imposed on the functions of the Commission in section 8,
the Commission must give particular consideration to the public interest requirements inclause 1 of the Competition Principles Agreement signed by the Commonwealth
Government on 11 April 1995.
(5) Competitive neutrality arrangements are the arrangements referred to by that name in the
Commonwealth Government Competitive Neutrality Statement of June 1996 (the aim of
which is to ensure that significant business activities do not enjoy net competitive
advantages or disadvantages in comparison with their competitors by virtue of theirpublic sector ownership).
22 Discretion not to investigate complaints
(1) The Commission may decide not to investig ate a complaint, if in the opinion of the
Commission:
(a) the complaint is frivolous or vexatious or was not made in good faith; or
(b) the complainant does not have sufficient interest in the subject matter of the
complaint; or
(c) an investigation is not warranted having regard to all the relevant circumstances.
(2) If the Commission decides not to investigat e a complaint it must inform the complainant
of the decision.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 22
Part 5—Constitution and operation of Commission
Division 1—Structu re of Commission
23 Constitution of Commission
(1) The Commission consists of:
(a) a Chair; and
(b) not fewer than 4 nor more than 11 other Commissioners.
(2) The performance of the Commission’s functions, and the exercise of its powers, are not
affected merely because of:
(a) a vacancy in the office of Chair; or
(b) the number of Commissioners falling below 5 for a period of not more than 3
months; or
(c) the lack of a member who meets the requirements of subsection 26(3), (4) or (5) for
a period of not more than 4 months.
24 Appointment of Commissioners
(1) The Commissioners are to be appointed by the Governor-General .
(2) A person must not be appointed as a Commissioner unless he or she has, in the opinion
of the Governor-General, qualifications and experience relevant to the Commission’s
functions.
(3) At least one Commissioner must have extensive skills and experience in applying the
principles of ecologically sustainable development and environmental conservation.
(4) At least one Commissioner must have extensive skills and experience in dealing with the
social effects of economic adjustment and social welfare service delivery.
(5) At least one Commissioner must have extensive skills and experience acquired in
working in Australian industry.
25 Appointment of Associate Commissioners
The Minister may, after consulting with the Chair, appoint Associate Commissioners to
the Commission.
26 Terms and conditions of appointment of members
(1) The Chair must be appointed on a full-time basis.
(2) The other members of the Commission may be appointed either on a full-time or part-
time basis.
(3) At least one member must have extensive skil ls and experience in matters relating to the
principles of ecologically sustainable development and environmental conservation.
(4) At least one member must have extensive skil ls and experience in matters relating to the
social effects of economic adjustment and social welfare service delivery.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 23
(5) At least one member must have extensive skills and experience acquired in working in
Australian industry.
(6) A member is appointed for the term, not longer than 5 years, that is specified in the
instrument of appointment, and is eligible for re-appointment.
(7) A member’s appointment is subject to any terms and conditions set out in the instrument
of appointment.
27 Outside employment
(1) A full-time member must not engage in paid employment outside the duties of his or her
office, except with the Minister’s consent.
(2) A part-time member must not engage in paid employment that, in the Minister’s opinion,
conflicts with the proper performance of the member’s duties.
28 Remuneration and allowances
(1) A member is to be paid the remuneration that is determined by the Remuneration
Tribunal. If no determination of that remuneration by the Tribunal is in operation, themember is to be paid the remuneration that is prescribed.
(2) A member is to be paid the prescribed allowances.
(3) This section has effect subject to the Remuneration Tribunal Act 1973 .
29 Leave of absence for full-time members
(1) Subject to section 87E of the Public Service Act 1922 , a full-time member has the
recreation leave entitlements that are determined by the Remuneration Tribunal.
(2) The Minister may grant a full-time member leave of absence (other than recreation leave)
on the terms and conditions as to remuneration or otherwise that the Minister determines.
(3) The Minister may, by written instrument, delegate to the Chair the Minister’s powers
under subsection (2) (other than powers in relation to the Chair).
30 Leave of absence for part-time members
The Chair may grant leave to a part-time member to be absent from a meeting or
meetings of the Commission.
31 Deputy Chair
(1) The Minister may, in writing, appoint one of the full-time Commissioners to be the
Deputy Chair for such period as is specified in the instrument of appointment.
(2) The Deputy Chair must assist the Chair in the exercise of the powers and the
performance of the duties of the Chair.
(3) The Deputy Chair holds office until:G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 24
(a) his or her term of office as Deputy Chair expires; or
(b) he or she ceases to be a Commissioner; or
(c) the Chair ends the appointment;
whichever first happens.
(4) A Commissioner may resign an appointment as Deputy Chair by giving the Chair a
signed notice of resignation, but the resignation is not effective until it is accepted by the
Chair.
32 Acting appointments
(1) The Deputy Chair is to act as Chair:
(a) during a vacancy in the office of Chair, whether or not an appointment has
previously been made to the office; or
(b) during any period, or during all periods, when the Chair is absent from duty or
from Australia or is, for any other reason, unable to perform the duties of office.
(2) The Minister may appoint another Commissioner to act as Chair if:
(a) there is a vacancy in the office of Chair and the office of Deputy Chair (whether or
not an appointment has been made to either or both of those offices); or
(b) the Chair and Deputy Chair are absent from duty or from Australia or are, for any
other reason, unable to perform the duties of office.
(3) The Minister may appoint a person (includi ng an Associate Commissioner) to act as a
Commissioner (other than the Chair ):
(a) during a vacancy in the office of the Commissioner; or
(b) during any period, or during all periods, when the Commissioner is absent from
duty or from Australia or is, for any other reason, unable to perform the duties ofoffice.
(4) Anything done by a person purporting to act under an appointment under this section is
not invalid merely because:
(a) the occasion for the appointment had not arisen; or
(b) there was a defect or irregularity in or in connection with the appointment; or
(c) the appointment had ceased to have effect; or
(d) the occasion for the person to act had not arisen or had ceased.
Note: Sections 20, 33 and 33A of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901 set out additional rules governing
acting appointments.
33 Resignation of member
(1) A Commissioner may resign by giving the Governor-General a signed notice of
resignation.
(2) An Associate Commissioner may resign by giving the Minister a signed notice of
resignation.
34 Retirement of memberG/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 25
(1) The Governor-General may retire a Commissioner on the ground of invalidity if the
Commissioner consents.
(2) The Minister may retire an Associate Commissioner on the ground of invalidity if the
Associate Commissioner consents.
35 Termination of member
(1) The Governor-General may terminate a Co mmissioner’s appointment for misbehaviour
or physical or mental incapacity.
(2) The Governor-General must terminate a Commissioner’s appointment:
(a) if the Commissioner:
(i) becomes bankrupt; or
(ii) applies to take the benefit of any law for the relief of bankrupt or insolvent
debtors; or
(iii) compounds with his or her creditors or makes an assignment of remuneration
to them; or
(b) if the Commissioner is a full-time Commissioner and is absent from duty, without
reasonable excuse, for 14 consecutive days or for 28 days in any 12 month period;
or
(c) if the Commissioner is absent, without reasonable excuse, from 3 consecutive
meetings of the Commission; or
(d) if the Commissioner fails, without reasonab le excuse, to comply with his or her
disclosure obligations under section 43; or
(e) if the Commissioner is a full-time Commi ssioner who engages in paid employment
outside the duties of his or her office without the Minister’s consent; or
(f) if the Commissioner is a part-time Commissioner who engages in paid employment
that, in the Minister’s opinion, conflicts with the proper performance of the
Commissioner’s duties.
(3) The Minister may terminate an Associate Commissioner’s appointment for misbehaviour
or physical or mental incapacity.
(4) The Minister must terminate an Associate Commissioner’s appointment:
(a) if the Associate Commissioner:
(i) becomes bankrupt; or
(ii) applies to take the benefit of any law for the relief of bankrupt or insolvent
debtors; or
(iii) compounds with his or her creditors or makes an assignment of remuneration
to them; or
(b) if the Associate Commissioner is a full-time Associate Commissioner and is absent
from duty, without reasonable excuse, for 14 consecutive days or for 28 days in any12 month period; or
(c) if the Associate Commissioner is absent, without reasonable excuse, from 3
consecutive meetings of the Commission; or
(d) if the Associate Commissioner fails, without reasonable excuse, to comply with his
or her disclosure obligations under section 43; orG/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 26
(e) if the Associate Commissioner is a full-time Associate Commissioner who engages
in paid employment outside the duties of his or her office without the Minister’s
consent; or
(f) if the Associate Commissioner is a part-time Associate Commissioner who engages
in paid employment that, in the Minister’s opinion, conflicts with the proper
performance of the Associate Commissioner’s duties.
(5) A member is not to be removed from office except as provided in this section.
36 Removal taken to be retirement on ground of invalidity
(1) If a member:
(a) is an eligible employee for the purposes of the Superannuation Act 1976 ; and
(b) is removed from office under section 35 on the ground of physical or mental
incapacity;
for the purposes of that Act, he or she is taken to have been retired on the ground of
invalidity within the meaning of Part IVA of that Act on the day on which he or she was
removed from office.
(2) In spite of subsection (1), section 54C of the Superannuation Act 1976 applies in relation
to the member.
(3) If a member:
(a) is a member of the superannuation scheme established by deed under the
Superannuation Act 1990 ; and
(b) is removed from office under section 35 on the ground of physical or mental
incapacity;
for the purposes of that Act, he or she is taken to have been retired on the ground of
invalidity within the meaning of that Act on the day on which he or she was removed
from office.
(4) In spite of subsection (3), section 13 of the Superannuation Act 1990 applies in relation
to the member.
37 Retirement on ground of invalidity under the Superannuation Acts
(1) In spite of anything contained in sections 34 and 35, a member who:
(a) is an eligible employee for the purposes of the Superannuation Act 1976 ; and
(b) has not reached his or her maximum retiring age within the meaning of that Act;
is not capable of being retired from office on the ground of invalidity within the meaning
of Part IVA of that Act unless the CSS Bo ard has given a certificate under section 54C of
that Act.
(2) In spite of anything contained in sections 34 and 35, a member who:
(a) is a member of the superannuation scheme established by deed under the
Superannuation Act 1990 ; and
(b) is under 60 years of age;
is not capable of being retired from office on the ground of invalidity within the meaning
of that Act unless the PSS Board has given a certificate under section 13 of that Act.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 27
Division 2—Operati on of Commission
38 Role of Chair
The Chair is to manage the Commission and to ensure the efficient performance of the
Commission’s functions.
39 Meetings of Commission
(1) The Chair is to convene such meetings of the Commission he or she thinks necessary for
the efficient performance of the functions of the Commission.
(2) Meetings are to be held at such places as the Chair determines.
(3) The Chair must preside at all meetings.
(4) The Chair may give directions regarding the procedure to be followed at or in connection
with a meeting.
(5) At a meeting:
(a) the Chair and 3 other Commissioners form a quorum; and
(b) questions must be decided by a majority of votes of the Commissioners present and
voting; and
(c) the Chair has a deliberative vote and, if necessary, also has a casting vote.
(6) The Chair may permit a person to participate in, or a Commissioner to form a part of a
quorum at, a meeting by means of telephone, closed circuit television or any other
method of communication.
(7) A power of the Chair under subsection (1), (2), (4) or (6) must be exercised, so far as
practicable, only after consultation with the Commissioners.
(8) This section has effect subject to sections 40 and 41.
40 Commission may sit in Divisions
(1) For the purposes of performing a function of the Commission, the Chair may, by written
instrument, establish a Division of the Commission.
(2) The Division is to be constituted by the Chair and any other member or members
specified in the instrument.
(3) A Division is taken to be the Commission for the purposes of performing the function
specified in the instrument and exercising the powers of the Commission in relation to
that function.
(4) Despite subsection 39(3), the Chair is not required to attend a meeting of a Division. If
the Chair does not attend, he or she must nominate another member to preside.
(5) The Chair may at any time before the Commission has completed performing the
function specified in the instrument, amend th e instrument in any respect, and if the
constitution of the Division is changed, the Division as constituted after the change may
complete the function specified in the instrument.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 28
(6) At a meeting of a Division constituted by 3 or more members, 2 members form a
quorum.
(7) A Division of the Commission may exercise powers of the Commission under this Act
even if another Division of the Commissi on is exercising powers of the Commission at
the same time.
41 Constitution of Division by one member in exceptional circumstances
(1) Despite section 40, a Division may be constituted by one member if:
(a) only one member of a Division is available to attend a hearing; and
(b) the other members of the Division are unavailable to attend the hearing because of
accident, illness, injury or other reason beyond their control.
(2) If subsection (1) applies:
(a) the Division is taken, for the purposes of the hearing, to be constituted by the sole
available member until one of the other members becomes available to attend the
hearing; and
(b) while the sole available member is taken to constitute the Division, he or she is
taken to have been nominated to preside at the meeting of the Division at which thehearing takes place.
(3) In this section:
hearing includes part of a hearing.
42 Delegation by Chair
The Chair may, in writing, delegate all or any of the Chair’s powers and functions under
this Act to a member.
Note: Sections 34AA, 34AB and 34A of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901 set out general rules
governing delegation of powers and functions.
43 Disclosure of interests
(1) The Chair must give written notice to the Minister of all direct and indirect pecuniary
interests that he or she has or acquires in a business or in a body corporate carrying on a
business.
(2) If the Chair has or acquires an interest, p ecuniary or otherwise, that could conflict with
the proper performance of a function of the Chair, he or she must ensure that the interest
is disclosed in one of the following ways:
(a) if a report or similar document results from the performance of the function—in the
report or document;
(b) in any other case—to the person or body for whom the function is being performed.
(3) If a member has or acquires an interest, pecuniary or otherwise, that could conflict with
the proper performance of his or her functions as a member, he or she must disclose theinterest to the Chair.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 29
(4) If the Chair becomes aware that a member has, in relation to the performance of a
function, an interest, pecuniary or otherwise, that could conflict with the proper
performance of the function by the member, the Chair must do one of the following:
(a) if the Chair considers that the member should not perform or continue to perform
the function, the Chair must give a direction to the member accordingly;
(b) if paragraph (a) does not apply, the Chair must ensure that the interest is disclosed
in one of the following ways:
(i) if a report or similar document results from the performance of the function—
in the report or document;
(ii) in any other case—to the person or body for whom the function is being
performed.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 30
Part 6—Staff and consultants
44 Staff
(1) Subject to section 45, the staff of the Commission are to be appointed or employed under
the Public Service Act 1922 .
(2) The Chair has all the powers of a Secretary under the Public Service Act 1922 as they
relate to the branch of the Australian Public Service comprising the staff of the
Commission.
45 Consultants
(1) The Chair may, on behalf of the Commonwealth, engage as consultants to the
Commission persons who have suitable qualifications and experience.
(2) In selecting consultants and in its annual reporting on the engagement of consultants, the
Commission must follow the Commonwealth’s best practice standards.
(3) The Chair must ensure that the Commonwealth’s best practice standards are used in
selecting consultants and in public reporting on their engagement.
(4) If the estimated value of a consultancy exceeds the amount prescribed by the regulations,
the Chair must ensure that an open, competitive tendering process is used in selecting the
consultant or consultants.
(5) A consultant may be engaged either under a contract for services or a contract of service.(6) Subject to any commitments under any awar d or employment agreement, the Chair may
determine the terms and conditions on which a consultant is engaged.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 31
Part 7—Offences etc.
46 Hindering or disrupting Commission
A person must not:
(a) obstruct or hinder a member of the Commission in the performance of the
Commission’s functions; or
(b) disrupt a hearing before the Commission.
Penalty: Imprisonment for 6 months.
Note: This penalty is a maximum penalty (section 4D, Crimes Act 1914 ). A court may impose an
appropriate fine instead of or as well as imprisonment (subsection 4B(2), Crimes Act 1914 ). If a
body corporate is convicted of the offence, a court may impose a fine not more than 5 times the
maximum fine that the court could impose on an individual for the same offence (subsection
4B(3), Crimes Act 1914 ). Penalty units are defined in section 4AA of the Crimes Act 1914.
47 Intimidation etc.
A person must not:
(a) threaten, intimidate or coerce another person; or
(b) cause or procure damage, loss or disadvantage to another person;
because that other person:
(c) proposes to give, or has given, information or documents to the Commission; or
(d) proposes to give evidence, or has given evidence, at a hearing held for the purposes
of an inquiry; or
(e) proposes to assist, or has assisted, the Commission in the performance of its
functions in any other way.
Penalty: Imprisonment for 6 months.
Note: This penalty is a maximum penalty (section 4D, Crimes Act 1914 ). A court may impose an
appropriate fine instead of or as well as imprisonment (subsection 4B(2), Crimes Act 1914 ). If a
body corporate is convicted of the offence, a court may impose a fine not more than 5 times the
maximum fine that the court could impose on an individual for the same offence (subsection
4B(3), Crimes Act 1914 ). Penalty units are defined in section 4AA of the Crimes Act 1914 .
48 Notice to person to provide information and documents
(1) If the Commission:
(a) is:
(i) required to hold hearings for the purposes of an inquiry; or
(ii) holding an inquiry under section 11 in relation to a competitive neutrality
complaint made under Division 2 of Part 4; and
(b) has reason to believe that a person is capable of giving information or producing
documents relevant to the inquiry;
the Chair may, by written notice served on the person, require the person to send to the
Commission:
(c) a statement signed by the person, setting out the specified information; and
(d) specified documents.
(2) The notice must specify the period within which the statement and documents referred to
in subsection (1) must be sent to the Commission. The period must be a period of at least
14 days commencing on the day the notice is served.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 32
(3) A person must not intentionally fail to send to the Commission the statement or
documents that the person is required to send under subsection (1).
Penalty: Imprisonment for 6 months.
Note: This penalty is a maximum penalty (section 4D, Crimes Act 1914 ). A court may impose an
appropriate fine instead of or as well as imprisonment (subsection 4B(2), Crimes Act 1914 ). If a
body corporate is convicted of the offence, a court may impose a fine not more than 5 times the
maximum fine that the court could impose on an individual for the same offence (subsection
4B(3), Crimes Act 1914 ). Penalty units are defined in section 4AA of the Crimes Act 1914 .
49 Summons to person to attend hearing
(1) The Chair may summon a person, in writing, to appear at a hearing to give evidence and
to produce documents specified in the summons.
(2) A person served with a summons to appear at a hearing must not intentionally:
(a) fail to attend as required by the summons; or
(b) fail to attend from day to day unless excused, or released from further attendance,
by the Chair.
Penalty: Imprisonment for 6 months.
Note: This penalty is a maximum penalty (section 4D, Crimes Act 1914 ). A court may impose an
appropriate fine instead of or as well as imprisonment (subsection 4B(2), Crimes Act 1914 ). If a
body corporate is convicted of the offence, a court may impose a fine not more than 5 times the
maximum fine that the court could impose on an individual for the same offence (subsection
4B(3), Crimes Act 1914 ). Penalty units are defined in section 4AA of the Crimes Act 1914 .
50 Refusal to answer questions or produce documents
A person appearing as a witness at a hearing must not refuse or fail:
(a) to answer a question as required by the Chair; or
(b) to produce a document as required by a summons served on the person under
section 49.
Penalty: Imprisonment for 6 months.
Note: This penalty is a maximum penalty (section 4D, Crimes Act 1914 ). A court may impose an
appropriate fine instead of or as well as imprisonment (subsection 4B(2), Crimes Act 1914 ). If a
body corporate is convicted of the offence, a court may impose a fine not more than 5 times themaximum fine that the court could impose on an individual for the same offence (subsection4B(3), Crimes Act 1914 ). Penalty units are defined in section 4AA of the Crimes Act 1914 .
51 Preservation of the privilege against self-incrimination
(1) Subject to subsection (2), a person who would, apart from this subsection, be required to:
(a) send a statement or document to the Commission under section 48; or
(b) answer a question or produce a document under section 50;
need not comply with that requirement if so complying would:
(c) tend to incriminate the person; or
(d) result in further attempts to obtain evidence that would tend to incriminate the
person.
(2) Subsection (1) does not apply, and the person must comply with the requirement, if the
person has waived his or her rights under that subsection.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 33
52 False or misleading evidence or information
If the Commission is:
(a) required to hold hearings for the purposes of an inquiry; or
(b) holding an inquiry under section 11 in relation to a competitive neutrality
complaint made under Division 2 of Part 4;
a person must not, in relation to the inquiry:
(c) give information to the Commission, whether orally or in writing, that the person
knows to be false or misleading in a material particular; or
(d) give evidence at a hearing before the Commission that the person knows to be false
or misleading in a material particular; or
(e) send to the Commission, under section 48, a statement or document containing
material that the person knows to be false or misleading in a material particular.
Penalty: Imprisonment for 6 months.
Note: This penalty is a maximum penalty (section 4D, Crimes Act 1914 ). A court may impose an
appropriate fine instead of or as well as imprisonment (subsection 4B(2), Crimes Act 1914 ). If a
body corporate is convicted of the offence, a court may impose a fine not more than 5 times the
maximum fine that the court could impose on an individual for the same offence (subsection
4B(3), Crimes Act 1914 ). Penalty units are defined in section 4AA of the Crimes Act 1914 .
53 Restrictions on publication of evidence
(1) If the Commission directs that a hearing, or part of it, take place in private, the
Commission may give directions prohibiting or restricting the publication of:
(a) evidence given before the hearing (including evidence given prior to a direction
that part of the hearing take place in private); or
(b) matters contained in documents given to the Commission in connection with the
hearing.
Note: Section 15 sets out the circumstances in which the Commission may direct that a hearing, or part
of it, be held be private.
(2) A person must not contravene a direction given under this section.
Penalty: Imprisonment for 6 months.
Note: This penalty is a maximum penalty (section 4D, Crimes Act 1914 ). A court may impose an
appropriate fine instead of or as well as imprisonment (subsection 4B(2), Crimes Act 1914 ). If a
body corporate is convicted of the offence, a court may impose a fine not more than 5 times the
maximum fine that the court could impose on an individual for the same offence (subsection
4B(3), Crimes Act 1914 ). Penalty units are defined in section 4AA of the Crimes Act 1914 .
54 Documents produced in relation to inquiry
If documents are produced or given to the Commission under this Part, the Commission:
(a) may take possession of, and make copies of, or take extracts from, the documents;
and
(b) may keep possession of the documents for so long as is necessary for the purposes
of the inquiry to which they relate; and
(c) while it has possession of the documents, must permit them to be inspected at all
reasonable times by people who would be entitled to inspect them if they were not
in the possession of the Commission.
55 Allowances to witnessesG/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 34
A person who attends a hearing of the Commission under a summons served under
section 49 is entitled to be paid by the Commonwealth such allowances and expenses as
are prescribed.
56 Limitation of powers under this Part
(1) The powers under sections 48 and 49, paragraph 50(a) and sections 53 and 54 may be
exercised only as provided in this section.
(2) The powers may be exercised in relation to:
(a) a person holding, or performing the duties of, an office or appointment under a law
of the Commonwealth or of a Territory; or
(b) a Commonwealth authority.
(3) The powers may also be exercised in relation to any person for the purposes of an inquiry
to the extent that the subject matter of th e inquiry relates to a subject of Commonwealth
power.
(4) Subsection (3) does not enable a power to be exercised to the extent that it would impair
the capacity of a State to exercise its constitutional powers.G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 35
Part 8 —Miscellaneous
57 Protection from civil actions
(1) Civil proceedings may not be brought against a member, or a person acting under the
direction or authority of a member, in relation to loss, damage or injury of any kind
suffered by a person in the course of the proper performance or exercise of theCommission’s functions or powers.
(2) Civil proceedings may not be brought against a person in relation to loss, damage or
injury of any kind suffered by another person because the first-mentioned person:
(a) made a statement or submission; or
(b) gave information or a document;
in good faith to the Commission in the course of the proper performance or exercise of
the Commission’s functions or powers.
58 Charges for services
The Commission may, on behalf of the Commonwealth, charge fees in relation to
services provided by it in the course of performing functions referred to in paragraphs
6(1)(f), (g) and (h).
59 Conduct by directors, employees or agents
(1) If, in proceedings for an offence against this Act in respect of conduct engaged in by a
body corporate, it is necessary to establish a state of mind of the body corporate, it is
sufficient to show:
(a) that the conduct was engaged in by a director, employee or agent of the body
corporate within the scope of his or her actual or apparent authority; and
(b) that the director, employee or agent had that state of mind.
(2) If:
(a) conduct is engaged in on behalf of a body corporate by a director, employee or
agent of the body corporate; and
(b) the conduct is within the scope of his or her actual or apparent authority;
the conduct is taken, for the purposes of this Act, to have been engaged in also by the
body corporate unless the body corporate establishes that it took reasonable precautionsand exercised due diligence to avoid the conduct.
(3) If, in proceedings for an offence against this Act in respect of conduct engaged in by a
person other than a body corporate, it is necessary to establish a state of mind of theperson, it is sufficient to show:
(a) that the conduct was engaged in by an employee or agent of the person within the
scope of the employee’s or agent’s actual or apparent authority; and
(b) that the employee or agent had that state of mind.
(4) If:
(a) conduct is engaged in on behalf of a person other than a body corporate by an
employee or an agent of the person; and
(b) the conduct is within the employee’s or agent’s actual or apparent authority;G/SG/N/1/AUS/2
Page 36
the conduct is taken, for the purposes of this Act, to have been engaged in also by the
person unless the person establishes that he or she took reasonable precautions and
exercised due diligence to avoid the conduct.
(5) A reference in subsection (1) to a state of mind of a person includes a reference to the
knowledge, intention, opinion, belief or purpose of the person and the person’s reasons
for the intention, opinion, belief or purpose.
(6) A reference in this section to a director of a body corporate includes a reference to a
constituent member of a body corporate incorporated for a public purpose by a law of the
Commonwealth or of a State or Territory.
(7) A reference in this section to engaging in conduct includes a reference to failing or
refusing to engage in conduct.
60 Regulations
The Governor-General may make regulations prescribing matters:
(a) required or permitted by this Act to be prescribed; or
(b) necessary or convenient to be prescribed for carrying out or giving effect to this
Act.
[Minister's second reading speech made in —
House of Representatives on 4 December 1996
Senate on 13 February 1997 ]
__________
(187/96)
| 10,106 | 65,222 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_SPS_NNZL247A1.pdf
|
Q_G_SPS_NNZL247A1
|
WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATION G/SPS/N/NZL/247/Add.1
22 December 2003
(03-6688)
Committee on Sanitary a nd Phytosanitary Measures Original: English
NOTIFICATION
Addendum
The following communication, dated 17 December 2003, is being circulated at the request of
the Delegation of New Zealand.
_______________
Importation of bovine semen from Australia
On 11 July 2003, New Zealand notified to WTO Members the draft import health standard
(G/SPS/N/NZL/247) for bovine semen from Australia . The final date for comments on the draft
import health standard closed on 8 August 2003. A small number of comments were received during the comments period and the import health standard has been modified accordingly. The following changes have been made to the import
health standard.
- The period of semen collection(s) must be 60 days or less. - The donor animal treatment for leptospi rosis is no longer required but the semen
diluent must contain antibiotics.
- The testing requirements for blueton gue have been updated as per the Office
International des Epizooties Terrestrial Animal Health Code (OIE Code )
- The testing requirements for epizootic haemorrhagic disease have been updated in
line with the OIE Code requirements for bluetongue.
For further information or copies of the notified document, contact Ms Sally Griffin, Coordinator, SPS New Zealand, PO Box 2526, We llington, New Zealand. Tel: +64 4 474 4140;
Fax: +64 4 470 2730; E-mail: [email protected]. The notified document is also available on the
internet at: http://www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity /sps/transparency/notifications/addendums.htm
__________
| 238 | 1,691 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_AIR_814.pdf
|
Q_WT_AIR_814
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/S_WT_Min99_ST74.pdf
|
S_WT_Min99_ST74
|
./.ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOWT/MIN(99)/ST/74
1º de diciembre de 1999
(99-5324)
CONFERENCIA MINISTERIAL
Tercer período de sesiones
Seattle, 30 de noviembre - 3 de diciembre de 1999Original: inglés
BOTSWANA
Declaración del Excmo. Sr. Daniel K. Kwelagobe,
Ministro de Comercio e Industria
En nombre del Gobierno y del pueblo de Botswana, quisiera aprovechar esta oportunidad para
agradecer al Gobierno de los Estados Unidos de América por acoger la Tercera Conferencia
Ministerial de la OMC aquí, en esta hermosa ciudad de Seattle. Esta Conferencia brinda a los EstadosMiembros la posibilidad de examinar la labor de la OMC, reflexionar sobre la situación de la
aplicación de los diversos Acuerdos y, en un esfuerzo colectivo, tratar de lograr una mayor y más
equitativa liberalización del comercio.
Botswana reafirma su compromiso con el sistema multilateral de comercio como motor del
crecimiento y el desarrollo. Sin embargo, observamos que la aplicación de los Acuerdos de la Ronda
Uruguay ha sido un proceso sumamente técnico y co mplejo que ha planteado grandes desafíos a los
países en desarrollo. Botswana se cuenta entre los países para los que ha sido extremadamente difícil
la plena aplicación de los Acuerdos debido a la falta de capacidad técnica y humana.
Por lo tanto, estamos firmemente convencidos de que la tarea más urgente que la OMC y sus
Miembros tienen ante sí es la de ejercer presión en favor de una aplicación más rigurosa de los citadosAcuerdos, lograr un equilibrio de los derechos y obligaciones de sus Miembros y facilitar la
integración de los países en desarrollo en el sist ema multilateral de comercio mediante el suministro
de una asistencia técnica mejor dirigida y más coherente. Creemos que la ronda propuesta de
negociaciones comerciales multilaterales debe basarse principalmente en la necesidad de aplicar los
Acuerdos vigentes, promover un comercio más libre entre los países desarrollados y en desarrollocomo también entre estos últimos y, en particular, hacer extensivo un régimen de derechos nulos
consolidados para las exportaciones de los países menos adelantados.
Creemos también que el trato especial y diferenciado para nuestros países debe verse como un
principio básico e incorporarse de lleno y con carácter operativo en los Acuerdos. Este principiodeberá reconfirmarse para vincularlo estrechamente con las políticas de desarrollo y las capacidades
de nuestros países para aplicar los Acuerdos de la Ronda Uruguay. También deberán ser objeto de
examen los períodos de transición relacionados con la aplicación de los diversos Acuerdos, con el fin
de reflejar las realidades económicas de nuestros países.
En relación con las renegociaciones en curso entre la UE y el grupo de Estados ACP,
opinamos que estos últimos necesitan mantener toda vía un acceso preferencial al mercado de la UE
para facilitar su integración sin sobresaltos en el sistema multilateral de comercio. En este sentido,
instamos a los Estados Miembros de la OMC a brindar su apoyo a la solicitud de prórroga de la
exención del acuerdo comercial vigente entre la UE y el Grupo ACP.
Aunque reconocemos la importancia de una protección adecuada de los derechos de
propiedad intelectual para atraer la inversión extranjera y la transferencia de tecnología, estamos aúnWT/MIN(99)/ST/74
Página 2
en proceso de elaborar nuestra legislación en materia de derechos de propiedad intelectual y de crear
las capacidades internas necesarias para aplicar el Acuerdo en la materia. Botswana apoya, por
consiguiente, las propuestas relativas a la prórroga del período de transición para el cumplimiento de
este Acuerdo. Apoyamos además las propuestas referentes a una "cláusula de paz" para asegurarse de
que no se impugne a los países en desarrollo por incumplimiento durante el período de negociacionesde la nueva ronda.
Los actuales desequilibrios de los derechos y obligaciones previstos en el Acuerdo sobre la
Agricultura que se registran entre los países desarrollados y países en desarrollo Miembros de la OMC
son motivo de grave preocupación para Botswana. Creemos que el objetivo de las próximas
negociaciones sobre la agricultura debe ser el diseño de modalidades apropiadas para corregir los
desequilibrios que enfrentan los países en desarrollo.
Una decisión en la que se tenga en cuenta la flexibilidad con respecto a la ayuda interna para
los países en desarrollo nos resultará útil en nuestro empeño por promover la seguridad alimentaria.
Las economías pequeñas y los países sin litoral e insulares necesitan seguridades de que se tomarán en
consideración sus circunstancias especiales durante la nueva ronda de negociaciones comercialesmultilaterales.
Una gran proporción de la población de Bots wana depende del sector agropecuario. La
producción de este sector, no obstante, no satisface la demanda interna. Como resultado de ello,
Botswana es un país en desarrollo importador neto de productos alimenticios. Botswana apoya, porconsiguiente, la aplicación de la Decisión de Marrakech relativa a los países en desarrollo
importadores netos de productos alimenticios, en especial el establecimiento del fondo rotatorio para
ayudar a esos países. Creemos que la Decisión relativa a los países en desarrollo importadores netos
de productos alimenticios debe aplicarse con carácter urgente y como cuestión prioritaria.
Con respecto a las cuestiones referentes al medio ambiente y a las normas del trabajo,
Botswana considera que se trata de asuntos importantes que deben tratarse al promover el desarrollo
sostenible. Sin embargo, aunque apoyamos la mejora de las normas ambientales, observamos que el
actual Grupo de Trabajo sobre Comercio y Medio Ambiente debe proseguir su estudio y análisis de la
relación entre las dos cuestiones. En lo relativo a las normas fundamentales del trabajo, observamos
que la Conferencia Ministerial de Singapur adoptó una decisión definitiva de remitir esta cuestión a la
organización competente, es decir, la Organización Internacional del Trabajo.
Por último, al aproximarnos a la siguiente ronda de negociaciones, otro factor de importancia
crítica será la ayuda que se facilite a los países en desarrollo para que participen efectivamente en
ellas. Esta participación deberá lograrse mediante la prestación de asistencia técnica.
Estamos convencidos de que las cuestiones que hemos descrito someramente deben tratarse
con mayor rigor si hemos de lograr que el sistema multilateral de comercio siga una ruta más
sostenible en el próximo milenio. Éste es el desafío principal que encaran los Estados Miembros de
la OMC.
__________
| 1,009 | 6,612 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_WT_DS_31-9A3.pdf
|
R_WT_DS_31-9A3
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEWT/DS31/9/Add.3
13 juillet 1998
(98-2788)
Original: anglais
CANADA - CERTAINES MESURES CONCERNANT LES PÉRIODIQUES
Rapport de situation du Canada
Addendum
La communication ci-après, datée du 10 juillet 1998, adressée par la Mission permanente du
Canada à l'Organe de règlement des différends, est distribuée conformément à l'article 21:6 du
Mémorandum d'accord sur le règlement des différends.
_______________
Rapport de situation sur la mise en oeuvre des recommandations et décisions relatives
à l'affaire "Canada - Certaines mesures concernant les périodiques"
Rapport du Groupe spécial (WT/DS31/R) et
Rapport de l'Organe d'appel (WT/DS31/AB/R)
Conformément au Mémorandum d'accord sur les règles et procédures régissant le règlement
des différends, le Canada est tenu d'informer l'Organe de règlement des différends ("ORD") de lasituation de la mise en oeuvre des recommandations et décisions relatives à l'affaire
"Canada - Certaines mesures concernant les périodiques". Cette question sera de nouveau inscrite à
l'ordre du jour de la réunion de l'ORD qui aura lieu le 23 juillet 1998 et, comme le prévoit
l'article 21:6 du Mémorandum d'accord sur le règlement des différends, le Canada présente son
quatrième rapport.
Comme nous l'avons indiqué dans nos rapports de situation des 25 mars et 22 avril 1998,
l'abrogation de la partie V.1 de la Loi sur la taxe d'accise exige une loi du Parlement. Le nombre de
projets de loi qui peuvent être soumis à la Chambre en matière fiscale est limité et le prochain projet
de loi à ce sujet sera soumis à la Chambre cet automne. La disposition d'abrogation pourrait figurerdans ce projet de loi. La modification du Tarif des douanes pourrait se faire par un Décret en Conseil.
Ces deux mesures pourraient être prises de manière à s'appliquer à compter du 30 octobre 1998. Ces
questions, ainsi que les modifications des subventions postales, seront examinées prochainement aux
plus hauts niveaux.
Les Ministres canadiens annonceront comment ils prévoient de mettre en œuvre la décision de
l'OMC au cours des prochains mois.
__________
| 323 | 2,115 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_TBTNOT98_98-175.pdf
|
R_G_TBTNOT98_98-175
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE G/TBT/Notif.98.175
6avril1998
DUCOMMERCE
(98-1368)
Comité desobstacles techniques aucommerce
NOTIFICATION
Lanotification suivante estcommuniquée conformément àl'article 10.6.
1. Membre del'Accord adressant lanotification: PAYS-BAS
Lecaséchéant, pouvoirs publics locaux concernés (articles 3.2et7.2):
2. Organisme responsable: Office desboissons nonalcooliques etdeseaux
L'organisme oul'autorité désigné pour s'occuper desobservations concernant la
notification doitêtreindiqué s'ilestdifférent del'organisme susmentionné: Point national
d'information -Point d'information OTC-OMC desCE
3. Notification autitredel'article 2.9.2 [X],2.10.1 [],5.6.2 [],5.7.1 [],autres:
4. Produits visés (lecaséchéant, position duSHoudelaNCCD, sinon position dutarif
douanier national. Lesnuméros del'ICSpeuvent aussi êtreindiqués, lecaséchéant):
Boissons nonalcooliques eteaux
5. Intitulé, nombre depages etlangue(s) dutextenotifié: Décret de1998 portant délégation
depouvoirs concernant denouvelles bouteilles enmatière plastique sansretour
6. Teneur: Ceprojet dedécret donne effetauxdispositions desarticles 3à5duProtocole
surlaréutilisation deproduits (partie delaConvention IIsurlesemballages). Ces
articles disposent entermes généraux quelesproducteurs etlesimportateurs d'eauxetde
boissons nonalcooliques peuvent mettre surlemarché desemballages nouveaux
(c'est-à-dire nondisponibles actuellement surlemarché) sansretour sicelan'entraîne pas
unediminution delapartdeseauxetdesboissons nonalcooliques enemballages repris
supérieure à2pour centdutotalpour legroupe deproduits. Lesproducteurs etles
importateurs deboissons nonalcooliques etd'eaux minérales représentés auseinde
l'Office ontfaitsavoir qu'ilsutiliseraient éventuellement cettepossibilité uniquement pour
mettre surlemarché desbouteilles enmatière plastique sans retour d'unecapacité
maximale de0,5litre. Ledécret notifié prévoit lapossibilité d'uneexemption de
l'obligation defaire payer undépôt pour cesbouteilles. Cesystème s'applique aux
producteurs etauximportateurs basés auxPays-Bas, quisontautorisés àmettre surle
marché dans lesbouteilles enmatière plastique susvisées 2pour centaumaximum de
leurs ventes totales (enlitres) surlemarché néerlandais. Lesnouveaux venus surle
marché peuvent commercialiser danscesnouvelles bouteilles 2pourcentdeleurs ventes
estimatives d'eauxetdeboissons nonalcooliques.
./.G/TBT/Notif.98.175
Page2
7. Objectif etjustification, ycompris lanature desproblèmes urgents, lecaséchéant: Ce
système donne effetauxdispositions duProtocole surlaréutilisation deproduits, quifait
partie delaConvention IIsurlesemballages. Ainsi qu'ilestexpliqué aupoint 6,les
dispositions duProtocole doivent êtrecomplétées parunsystème additionnel auxfinsde
l'élimination del'obligation dedépôt elle-même.
8. Documents pertinents:
-Loisurl'organisation del'industrie
-Règlement portant création del'Office desboissons nonalcooliques etdeseaux
-Convention IIsurlesemballages
9. Dateprojetée pourl'adoption: 23juin1998
Dateprojetée pourl'entrée envigueur: 1eraoût1998
10. Datelimite pourlaprésentation desobservations: 10juin1998
11. Entité auprès delaquelle letexte peutêtreobtenu: point national d'information [X]ou
adresse, courrier électronique etnuméro detéléfax d'unautre organisme:
| 302 | 3,272 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_WT_INF_14.pdf
|
R_WT_INF_14
|
./.ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEWT/INF/14
23 juillet 1999
(99-3122)
NOTE DU SECRÉTARIAT
Conformément aux lignes directrices pour les arrangements concernant les relations avec les
organisations non gouvernementales (WT/L/162) et dans le contexte des récentes initiatives du
Directeur général en vue d'accroître la transparence et de renforcer le dialogue avec les ONG, la liste
(en anglais) des notes d'information émanant d'ONG reçues par le Secrétariat est distribuée aux
Membres pour information.
Les délégations intéressées qui désirent examiner de près ces documents sont priées de
prendre contact avec Mme Susan Barbier, tél. 5677 à la Division des relations extérieures.
Les notes d'information émanant d'ONG dont la liste suit ont été reçues avant
le 23 juillet 1999.
The WTO Negotiations on Agriculture to be
launched at the end of 1999 must be based on thefollowing principles
(English / French / Spanish)Committee of Agricultural Organisations in the
European Union / General Committee forAgricultural Cooperation in the European Union
(COPA / COGECA)
GATS 2000 and Emergency Safeguard Measures
GATS 2000 and Public Procurement
GATS Disciplines for Domestic Regulation and
the Development of Pro-Competitive Regulatory
Principles
GATS 2000: Improvements in Scheduling
Commitments
(English only)European Services Network (ESN)
Challenges for the Upcoming WTO Negotiations
and Agendas for Future Japanese Trade Policy
(English only)Keidanren (Japan Federation of Economic
Organizations)WT/INF/14
Page 2
Preliminary UNICE Position on Market Access
in View of a New Round of WTO Multilateral
Trade Negotiations
(English / French)Trade and Labour Standards - UNICE Comments
in view of the WTO Millennium Round
(English / French)Union of Industrial Employers' Confederations of
Europe (UNICE)
ZVEI-position regarding the "Energy Sector
Initiative (ESI)" in the context of the WTO
Millennium Round
(English only)Zentralverband Elektrotechnik– und
Elektronikindustrie e.V. (ZVEI)
__________
| 278 | 1,997 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_REG_28-3.pdf
|
Q_WT_REG_28-3
|
WORLD TRADE WT/REG28/3
6January 1997
ORGANIZATION(97-0008)
Original: English Committee onRegional Trade Agreements
FREE TRADE AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE EFTA STATES AND ESTONIA
Terms ofReference fortheExamination
Terms ofReference adopted on19September 1996
"Toexamine, inlightoftherelevant provisions oftheGATT 1994, theFreeTrade Agreement
between theEFTA States andEstonia, andtosubmit areport totheCouncil forTrade in
Goods."
Understanding readoutbytheChairman oftheCouncil forTrade inGoods
atitsmeeting of19September 1996
Itisunderstood thattheunderstanding readoutbytheChairman oftheCouncil forTrade in
Goods under item7oftheAgenda ofitsmeeting on20February 1995, ascontained indocument
WT/REG3/1, applies mutatis mutandis tothisexamination. Itisalsounderstood that,during the
examination, dueaccount willbetaken oftheintrinsic differences between customs unions andfree-trade
areas.
| 86 | 883 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_WGTCP_W189.pdf
|
Q_WT_WGTCP_W189
|
WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONWT/WGTCP/W/189
21 June 2002
(02-3456)
Working Group on the Interaction
between Trade and Competition PolicyOriginal: English
COMMUNICATION FROM KOREA
The following is the final text of a paper received from the Permanent Mission of Korea
which was circulated as an advance copy for the Working Group's meeting of 23-24 April 2002.
_______________
THE KOREAN EXPERIENCE OF INTRODUCING AND
ENFORCING COMPETITION LAW
(April 23 - 24, 2002, WTO Trade . Competition Working group)
I. INTRODUCTION
1. In November of last year, the Fourth WTO Ministerial Conference in Doha proposed
"capacity building" in developing countries through technical assistance programmes as a prerequisite
to the launch of a new round on competition issues.
2. At present, some 80 countries have introduced competition law in their legislations while
around 30 countries are currently preparing to introduce competition laws. Taking this into
consideration, technical assistance is essential in establishing competition systems and effectively
enforcing competition law in the above countries.
3. In the last two decades, while undergoing the application of competition law, Korea realized
the importance of technical assistance as it was transformed from a recipient to a provider/supplier of
technical support.
4. Due to past government led strategies for economic growth, Korea had experienced difficulty
in grounding a competitive market structure. Howeve r, Korea was able to secure institutional growth,
as well as political support, as a result of active technical assistance from organizations such as theOECD, WTO and UNCTAD.
5. Therefore, such a case as ours is certain to provide significant illustrations to many
developing countries and those economies in transition who are striving to settle a market economic
order through deregulation and privatization.
6. In its effort to share Korea's valuable experi ence with developing countries, the KFTC has
faithfully worked towards building bridges between developing and developed countries by
implementing international competition policy workshops since 1996 and technical assistance
programmes in diverse forms.
7. Accordingly, by illustrating the contents of Korea's technical assistance programmes for
developing countries and suggesting how to establish components in the process of introducing andWT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 2
enforcing competition law, we hope to contribute to the current discussions in the WTO through the
following presentation.
II. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY THE KFTC FOR DEVELOPING
COUNTRIES
A. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMMES
1. Seoul Competition Forum
8. Promoting the Seoul Competition Forum for proclaiming the importance of competition and
advancing its competition culture.
9. The First Seoul Competition Forum was held in April 2001 with the theme of "New Tasks
facing Competition Authorities with the coming of Globalization and Informatization". This was an
event commemorating the 20th year of Korean Fair Trade Law enforcement.
10. Present at this event, were numberous high level officers and competition law experts
including Minister Iliya Yuzhanov of Russia, Vice Council Chairman Frédéric Jenny of France,
Council Chairman Rimantas Stanikunas of Lithuania and Commission Chairperson Tzong-Leh
Hwang of Taiwan.
11. The 2nd Forum is expected to be co-hosted with the UNCTAD in November of this year.
The aim is to discuss the problems faced by developing and transitional economies during the processof introducing and enforcing competition law.
12. As such, the Forum is intended for the participation of high ranking members of competition
authorities from developed countries and commissioner level members from developing and transition
economies.
13. The subject of discussion is planned to be: (1) economic growth and its interrelationship with
competition & competition policy, (2) formation of competition policy & strengthening of
enforcement power, (3) competition authorities' ro le of competition advocacy and (4) the future of
Korea's competition policy.
14. The KFTC plans to specialize the Forum for developing and transition countries and develop
it as a hub of discussions on competition policy in North East Asia.
2. International Workshop on Competition Policy
(Appendix : Contents of Technica l Assistance Programme by Year)
15. Since 1996, the KFTC, as a joint host with th e OECD, held the International Workshop on
Competition Policy for competition policy authorities of many developing and transitional countries
to deal with the main issues of competition law such as cartels and M&A.
• From 1996, a total of 22 countries, 122 trainees and 23 foreign lecturers participated
• This Year's Event Period: Monday 11 November to Thursday 14 November.16. In the beginning, invitations were extended mainly to those countries of APEC. However, in
recent workshops, regions of invited countries were expanded to include transition countries of theEuropean and developing countries of other regions.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 3
17. Furthermore, the general participants of earlier workshops centered around working level
officials. However, by broadening the range of general participants to include the leaders of
competition authorities, the workshop has contributed to discussions on competition issues and to
building a network for cooperation among competition authorities.
18. In addition, while the earlier workshops were conducted by holding lectures and question
sessions on the major issues in competition law, later workshops generated greater participation as
attending members were encouraged to introduce and discuss the actual cases of their home countries.
3. Establishment of New Course on Competition Law & Policy for Market Economy
19. Beginning this year, a new course lecturing the experience of implementing fair trade law and
enforcing policy was introduced into the Korea In ternational Cooperation Agency's (KOICA) training
course for developing countries. The course is aimed at explaining and illustrating the Korean system
of fair trade law.
20. With the increase in demand for technical assistance and the changed characteristics of the
international workshop on competition policy the necessity of technical assistance is becoming a
greater priority.
• Invited Persons: Working level officials of competition policy in developing and transition
countries.
• Invited Countries include: Bulgaria, Egypt, Indonesia, Kenya, Latvia, Pakistan, Peru, Romania,
Russia, Morocco, South Africa, Thailand, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, Zambia.
• Speakers: Competition law experts from the Korea Fair Trade Commission.
4. Establishment of New Course on "Assistance to Chinese Introduction of Competition
Law"
21. Since China's joining of the WTO, a new course was set up in KOICA's training programme
for China, in order to contribute to the Chines e groundwork for the market economy system and the
promotion of their competition policies by assisting their introduction of competition law.
22. The implementation of this new course is in recognition of the fact that, with China's
increasing presence in the international economy, China's adoption of competition law will contributegreatly to enhanced efficiency in the international economy.
- Invited Persons: 15 working level officials of the Chinese competition authorities
- Programme Date: Thursday 18 - Wednesday 31 July 2002.
E. The Knowledge Partnership Programme in Competition Policy
23. With the purpose of sharing Korea's experience and knowledge of economic development and
overcoming economic crisis, and in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding between the
Korean Government and the World Bank, the Knowledge Partnership Programme was held jointly by
the KFTC, KDI and KOICA.
24. Korea dispatched 4 competition policy experts from the KFTC & the KDI to Indonesia.
During this short-term visit, the representatives organized workshops for local authorities and experts.
The workshop lasted from the 12th to the 13th of March this year.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 4
B. FUTURE DIRECTIONS FOR THE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMME
25. Since technical assistance carries various financial costs, there are limits constraining their
quantitative supply. Therefore, we require careful effort in supplying the most suitable technical
assistance to developing countries within the limits of the resources given.
26. For this, the KFTC must strengthen its ties with international organizations and provide plans
for the efficient administration of technical assistance programmes.
27. Firstly, we much seek a change in perspective from the "provider-centered" to "recipient-
centered" technical assistance programme. That is, we plan to proceed by unearthing demand
consistent with the stage of economic development and characteristics of economic structure of the
recipients of technical assistance.
28. This means that we will actively accommodate the requests of the recipient country and will
not be confined to a case analysis of the provider country, but also carry out joint analysis work oncurrent cases in the recipient country.
29. Secondly, existing technical assistance programmes plan to be diversified beyond previous
workshops and symposiums and include long or sh ort-term training programmes organized by KFTC
staff who will be dispatched directly to the recipient countries.
30. Thirdly, there also needs to be a diversification in the range of countries to which the
programme is available. In the past, the KFTC technical assistance programme was limited to Asia's
developing countries and those transition economies in Eastern Europe. However, in future, these
programmes will also be extended to regions of Africa and South America.
31. Finally, technical assistance will be strengthened through cooperation with international
organizations. By working in close cooperation wi th organizations such as the WTO and the OECD,
we will be able to invite and build an international network among experts of competition law.
III. THE INTRODUCTION OF COMPETITION LAW AND CONTENTS OF
COMPETITION POLICY
A. P
OSITION OF THE COMPETITION AUTHORITY WITHIN THE GOVERNMENT
32. The position of the competition authority within the Government - degree of autonomy &
relationship with other government agencies - grea tly influences the competition authority' s role of
competition advocacy and its capacity to make effective and independent decisions.
33. In order to maintain this autonomy, most governments choose to either place an independent
committee, external to other government agencies, or position it within an administrative body while
enabling it to conduct independent activities.
34. Since Korea legislated the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act (MRFTA) in 1981 and
established the Korean Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) under the jurisdiction of one of the most
powerful government agencies in Korea, namely the Economic Planning Board (EPB), the KFTC has
been able to ground competition policies in a relatively short period of time.
35. Through the 10 or so years of implementing the MRFTA, the fair trade system and authority
was able to find somewhat secure its place. Consequently, through the Amendment of 1990, theKFTC was granted the autonomy to pursue its own polic ies, if only as a sub-organization of the EPB.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 5
In December of 1994, after the 4th Amendment to the MRFTA, the KFTC was elevated to an
independent central administrative body under the jurisdiction of the Prime Minister where it remains
at present, free from the intervention of other governmental bodies in its activities.
36. As such, the autonomous position of the KFTC has become a source of very effective means
in reflecting the importance of the competition principle upon the decision making process ofgovernment.
37. First, under Article 63 of the MRFTA stating the need for prior consultation with the KFTC,
the Minister of the related administrative body must consult the KFTC Chairman when establishing or
amending a competition restraining legislation or when approving other measures of which the
content is competition restrictive.
38. Second, the Chairman of the KFTC has the authority to attend or take the floor in a Cabinet
meeting while the Vice Chairman holds the authority to attend or take the floor at a Vice Ministers'meeting. Despite arguments that the KFTC Chairman should not attend Cabinet meetings in order to
maintain the independence of the KFTC, due to the serious difficulty of amending a government
policy once it has been established and the Korean characteristic of difficulty in accessing crucial
information unless present at the event, the said aut hority is playing a very effective role in spreading
the competition principle in government.
39. The KFTC is simultaneously securing cooperation between government agencies during
policy consideration and autonomy during competiti on law enforcement through such organizational
independence, obligation of consultation prior to legislation and authority to attend and speak before
the Cabinet.
B. S
HIFTING TRENDS IN MANAGEMENT OF THE ECONOMY & INTRODUCTION OF COMPETITION
LAW
40. The period from the 1960s to the 1970s was a time when under the direct/indirect
intervention, protection and support of the government, Korea was driven only by the pursuit of
growth. Based on cheap, but high quality labor, insufficient capital was brought in from abroad to
develop particular strategic industries, after which the input of productive factors was increased andthe products were exported.
41. Such growth strategies were nearly inevitable under the economic conditions of the times, and
in fact, yielded the major achievement of rapid "quantitative" growth of the economy.
• Achievements of the growth strategies between the 1960s & 1980s:
GNP USD 2.1 billion /g213 USD 60.6 billion (30 fold),
National income per person USD 82 /g213 USD 1,597 (20 fold),
Exports 4.1 million /g213 USD 17.5 billion ( 440 fold)
42. However, viewed from the perspective of "market competition", it was a period when internal
& external competition was excluded.
43. As a result of strict entry regulations, there was very little domestic competition and nor was
there any strong foreign competitor on a par with Korea. Since imports from abroad were strictlycontrolled while exports were unlimited, profitability was a certainty once one attained business
rights.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 6
44. The monopolistic market structure, concentration of economic power, and distortion of the
market function, all resulting from the lack of competition, later acted as factors restraining our
economy's qualitative development.
45. As international trade pressures became greater and the scale of the domestic economy
expanded during the 1980s, Korea attempted policy transitions towards strengthening the marketfunction and opening the market. A fundamental shift in awareness and paradigm was sought such as
the attempt to shift policy trends, under the three banners of self-regulation, stability and open-
economy, away from those growth centered policies of the past. The MRFTA was also introduced
and enacted in 1981 with rising agreement on changes in such policy trends and general aspects of the
market economy.
46. In a word, the introduction of competition law in Korea can be considered an "ideological
transition" fulfilling the task of our times, to alleviate the adverse effects that accumulated duringyears of government-led growth strategies.
C. T
HE LEVEL OF MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS IN COMPETITION LAW
1. Prohibition of Hard Core Cartels
47. "Hard core" cartel activities such as price fixing, market segmentation, customer division and
bid rigging are declared illegal in most competition laws. Cartels are illegal under the competitionlaws of major countries since their anti-competitive effects are clear and their enforcement relatively
simple. Even in international organizations such as the OECD and the WTO, cartels are one of the
first areas of discussion for international cooperation in competition law and policy.
48. There are instances where cartels are permitted as a way to help overcome economic
recession and rationalize industries, but the conditions of permission are very strict. Thus, permissionis very rarely granted and only temporary even when done so.
2. Prohibition of Vertical Restraints
49. Vertical restraints are those restraints, of contracts and business dealings, imposed by a
business at a higher level of the industry chain on a business at a lower level such as resale price
maintenance.
50. Vertical restraints are not only effective in excluding competitors and building barriers, but
can also increase distribution efficiency by solving distribution problems (e.g. general free-riding,
opportunistic activity, etc.) and have pro-competitive effects. Accordingly, the majority of countries
apply the "rational principle" on vertical restraints other than resale price maintenance.
3. Restraints on Abuse of Dominant Market Position
51. The majority of the world's countries administer a control system against abuse of market
dominance in order to prevent corporations' abuse of a dominant position in the market. In theimproper use of corporations' dominant position in the market, there are 5 types of activities which
effectively restrain competition, (1) price abuse practices, (2) delivery manipulation practices,
(3) business obstruction practices, (4) restraints on entry into new business sites, (5) and other anti-
competitive activities.
52. The KFTC achieved the result of preventing the occurrence of abusive practices by
implementing a system which designates and proclaims a dominant business as a market dominating
business.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 7
4. Prohibition of Mergers & Acquisitions through the Competition System
53. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) can have the effect of generating and enhancing efficiency,
but can also be a method of securing monopoly power. In most countries, therefore, competition laws
include regulations anti-competitive M&A, for the prevention of centralized Market. They do so
because M&A can bring about reduced competition or the appearance of market dominatingbusinesses.
54. That is, the greater the degree of market concentration, the greater the possibility of
exercising monopoly power and of collaboration am ong businesses. This is why M&A, which may
result in market concentration, are selectively controlled.
55. Regulations on M&A include guidelines on methods of defining related markets, monopoly
power evaluation standards and the time periods, process, content and form of M&A notification.
56. For the purposes of reducing the burden of excess cost born by businesses as a consequence
of varying regulations in different countries, the OECD is promoting the international convergence of
review processes, reporting periods, and form. It is also extending efforts to promote the exchange of
information among competition authorities.
5. Competition Advocacy System
57. Competition advocacy refers to all those activities which reduce government intervention in
the market, increase the efficiency of the market mechanism and, as a result, enhance the welfare of
consumers and citizens. Because it costs a great deal of time and money to amend anti-competitive
laws or systems once they have been put in place, the function of competition advocacy is necessary
for the purposes of prior prevention.
58. In the interest of efficiently carrying out the role of competition advocacy, the competition
authority should be given sufficient authority and, at the same time, be independent of regulating
bodies trying to maintain regulatory power. Furthermore, it is necessary to develop a logic of
regulation reform in the competition authority in or der to fulfill the role of competition advocacy and
it is also necessary to establish an agency in sole charge of competition advocacy.
6. Competition Regulations and Exemptions
59. Each country, for various reasons, maintains articles of law completely or partially exempting
certain industries or sectors from the application of competition law. Exemplars of this are utility
industries such as telecommunications and electricity which had been excluded or exempt from
competition law application because it was subject to direct government participation (such as state-
owned enterprises) or regulation under the belief that utility industries have a natural monopolistic
aspect.
60. However, the range of exemptions from competition law is gradually being reduced because
competition has become possible through alleviation of regulations and technological developments in
areas where corporations had previously enjoyed a monopoly position.
7. Rules of Process for Enforcing Competition Law
61. For the effective enforcement of competition law, it must include regulations on the
competition authority's organization, function and pow er, sanctions, procedure of appeal and process
of claiming liabilities.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 8
IV. THE INTRODUCTION OF COMPETITION LAW AND COMPETITION POLICY
A. SYSTEM OF INTRODUCING COMPETITION LAW
62. The general procedure for processing cases is composed of the following stages: (1) report
the commencement of a case review, (2) review of facts, (3) committee adjudication, (4) formal
appeal and administrative litigation.
(1) Reporting the Commencement of Review
• When a law violation is either reported or authority recognized, an investigator will determine
whether the content is subject to the law and, if it is subject to the law, investigations and reviewprocesses get under way after the commencing of review is reported.
(2) Review of Facts
• The content of notification and documentary evidence is reviewed and, when deemed necessary, a
field investigation like that of work sites takes place.
• If, as a result of reviewing the case, the reviewer finds:
- practices in violation of the law and decides on the need for corrective measures, a
review report is composed and the case is introduced before the Committee and aruling is requested.
- When practices are determined as legal, the reviewees are declared free from
suspicion.
(3) Committee Adjudication
• After the Committee deliberations on the case, if a legal violation is recognized, a ruling is made
for corrective measures of the degree and content corresponding to the seriousness of the violation
- The content of corrective measures include corrective orders, penalty fines and
prosecutions.
(4) Formal Appeal and Administrative Litigation
- Should the reviewee fail to comply with the measures imposed by the Committee, the
reviewee may call for an appeal or request an administrative litigation, within 30 days
of receiving the notice penalty.
B. T
HE COMPETITION AUTHORITY 'S ROLE OF COMPETITION ADVOCACY
1. The Concept and Importance of Competition Advocacy
63. Competition advocacy refers to the various efforts towards improving utilization of
competition principles and means available in the market economy during the policy decision-making
and regulation process of the government. In other words, the government's urging of companies
subject to privatization towards structural changes promoting competition, and their efforts to find and
abolish the economic regulations reducing consumer welfare, can be included in what is viewed as
competition advocacy.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 9
64. Once an anti -competitive law or system is put in place, and no matter how negative the
effects, it will usually cost a great deal of time and money to amend them and it is, therefore,
necessary to carefully control the establishment of such a system in advance.
2. Systemic Mechanisms for Competition Advocacy
65. To ensure the effectiveness of competition advocacy, the competition authority must be
equipped with the appropriate powers and resources. Furthermore, the capacity to participate in the
government decision-making process at opportune moments should also be ensured.
66. The KFTC performs the competition advocacy role through the ex ante competition advocacy
system (through consultation prior to legislation of competition restraining laws and attending and
speaking before the Cabinet), ex post facto competition advocacy system (Regulation Reform
Committee activities) and the establishment and administration of an agency in sole charge of
competition advocacy.
The ex ante competition advocacy system: a system for preventing the establishment of an anti-
competitive system
(1) Consultation Prior to Legislation of Competition Restraining Laws.
- Under Article 63 of the MRFTA, when the head of any pertinent administrative
agency pursues legislation or enforces policies that impose competition restraints, the
head is required to consult with the KFTC.
(2) Attending and speaking before the Cabinet
- The Cabinet meeting acts as an important channel of communication through which
the KFTC can raise greater awareness of competition principles among the highest
officials. As heads in charge of the different ministries, these officials attempt to
intervene in various ways whenever a socio-economic problem arises.
Ex post facto competition advocacy system: activities attempting to reform the existing anti-
competitive system into one more competition-friendly
- The "Economic Regulation Reform Committee", which was previously run by the
KFTC, was put under the authority of the President as of April 1998 by merging it
into the government-wide "Regulation Reform Committee", held jointly by bothcivilian and government participants. This committee exercises direct power in
considering and adjusting regulation policy and carries out reviews or makes
decisions on new or reinforced government regulations.
Operation of Agency in Sole Charge of Competition Advocacy
- The KFTC carries out its role of competition advocacy by managing agencies,
organized in units of divisions (Competition & Deregulation Division), that are
entrusted with the function of competition advocacy.
- However, it can be said, that not only the Competition and Deregulation Division, but
all other departments of the KFTC exercise the power of prior consultation and
undertake market structure analysis in their respective fields while conducting
activities of competition advocacy.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 10
3. Achievements of Competition Advocacy
67. As a neutral organization unrelated to any particular industry and taking initiative by utilizing
expert knowledge and experience of the market, the KTFC's intervention in regulation reform has
produced successful results in many areas. The most prominent among those achievements is the
high rate of opinions reflected in the prior consultation system,. the "Omnibus Cartel Repeal Act",which was put into effect in February of 1999, and the "Clean Market Project" which was initiated
last year.
(1) The High Rate of Opinions Reflected in the Prior Consultation System
• In relation to opinions on whether competition restraints exist, the proportion of KFTC
recommendations reflected through the prior consultation system remains relatively high. Thecauses for this can be found in agencies' respect towards the KFTC and the proliferation of the
competition mentality in the whole of society.
Table 1: Recommendations provided and re flected in the prior consultation system
Outcome
YearTotal Number
of
ConsultationsNumber of
Opinion
RecommendationReflected Not Reflected
2000 481 60(12.5%) 51(85.0%) 9(15.0%)
1999 561 72(12.0%) 64(88.0%) 8(12.0%)
1998 563 173(30.7%) 127(73.4%) 46(26.6%)
1997 408 139(34.1%) 106(76.3%) 33(23.7%)
• Standards Determining Competition Restraints
- A standard used to determine the existence of competition restraints is the suitability of
regulatory means such as various governmental approval, permission, registration and
notification. The appropriateness of guidelines (such as qualifications) in administering the
system is also an index used to determine competition restraint.
- Anti-competitive practices running contrary to the ideology of competition policy, such as
cartels, clearly indicate competition restraints.
- The presence of competition restraints can also be determined by examining the transparency
of regulations and thus detecting regulations with no legal grounds or with regulatory
guidelines stated only by sub-rules.
(2) Establishment of the "Omnibus Cartel Repeal Act"
• Due to the extent of their restraints on competition, 20 cartels were abolished under 18 Acts of
legislation, because they were considered to be negative elements impeding economic
development or viewed as irrational and unjustified by international standards.
- The said cartels had been tolerated or legally ensured by the government for reasons of
protection, development, export assistance or prevention of excess competition, as necessary
factors for rapid economic development.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 11
- After the liberalization of professional service fees, previously determined by Trade
associations such as the Korean Bar Association and Korea Institute of Certified Public
Accountants, service fees were reduced and the differentiation of professional services was
brought about.
(3) In 2001, the KFTC promoted the "Clean Market Project" as the central activity of the
organization and this was a task of simultaneously pursuing not only investigations into
possible violations of competition law, but also regulation reform and market structure
improvements.
- Based on the realization that it would be difficult to make fundamental improvements in
market structure and customary corporate practices simply through punishing violations ofcompetition law, the project has been a paralleled task of making in-depth inquiries and
regulation reviews in six market areas including the school uniform market, a market closely
related to consumers' lives.
- As a result of comprehensive improvements in market structure in the school uniform market,
deep-seated practices of horizontal and vertical cartels were broken down and ways of
improving collective purchase were sought thereby promoting collective purchasing and
reducing the consumer burden by approximately 50 billion won.
C. P
ERSONNEL ORGANIZATION IN COMPETITION AUTHORITIES AND PROPOSAL FOR IMPROVING
WORK PERFORMANCE
A. Personnel Organization in the KFTC
68. As the relative importance of competition policy increased during the 1990s, employee
numbers and budget size also continued to rise. There are 444 employees currently working in theKFTC, 95(21%) of which have master's degrees.
Table 2: The Number of Employees and Amount of Budget Spending in the KFTC
Employees Budget Spending (100 million won)
2000 444 193
1999 402 172
1995 341 105
1991 221 42
1990 221 4.5
1988 94 3
1981 75 2.6
69. Examined in terms of degree specialty, 81 (18%) have degrees in economics, 51 (11%) ln
law, 40 (9%) in business administration/management and 87 (20%) in public administration. This
indicates a relative shortage of economics and law graduates.
70. Further recruitment of economics and law graduates, as well as economic analysts, is
necessary for the greater in-depth economic and legal analysis required during case processing.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 12
2. Educational Training Programmes for Improvements in Work Performance
(1) Educational Training on Competition Law and Policy
71. The KFTC is running various training programmes on competition law and policy according
to the different educational needs, content, targets, and methods suitable to its employees, in order toimprove their work performance.
(a) First of all, the KFTC organizes professional courses on laws relevant to the MRFTA.
This course is open to all employees and educates them in the kind of legal
knowledge such as civil, commercial and corporate law which is needed in enforcing
competition law The purpose of these courses is to enable the effective enforcement
of competition law based on the knowledge of closely related basic laws.Furthermore, through intensive education of newly transferred employees in the
MRFTA, the course encourages the sharing of long-term visions and creates an
atmosphere of common understanding.
(b) Second, a weekly "Thursday Competition Forum" is held by inviting domestic and
international competition policy experts and private business people. It is organized
for employees who show an interest in discussions on competition policy overall.
Considerable effects which generate policy centered thought processes among
employees can be generated through discussions on policy and by learning to deal
with the dynamic environment in, which competition policies are implemented. Bycommunicating with business people in the private sector, they have the opportunity
to hear about the real difficulties entrepreneurs face in the private sector and use them
as reference to establish more realistic policy proposals.
(c) Finally, actual representative cases are selected in each field, such as cartels, M&A,
abuse of market domination and wrongful advertisement, to be introduced directly by
the official in charge of the case at the "Review Case Research Presentations". Since
the KFTC organization is not structured according to industry but according to
function, it has been pointed out that employees of one field have little expertise in
other fields, but the said programmes are contributing greatly to improve that matter.
(2) Education for Improvements in Analysis & Review
72. The employee education courses on the above mentioned substantive matters focus on
developing employee understanding of applying legal principles and on the substantive contents of
competition law. In reality, however, a competition authority can raise the effectiveness of
competition law enforcement mainly by conducting in vestigations on anti-competitive activities with
more efficacy. As such, the KFTC is consistently running training programmes on technique relatedsubjects such as investigation methods and accounting know-how.
73. During KFTC field investigations, the director level officials carry out training on
investigative activities with topics such as investigative conditions, face-to-face investigation
methods, techniques in practical investigative affairs and practising investigation confidentiality.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 13
(3) Entrusting Education Programmes to External Educational Institutions
74. In instances where the KFTC finds it adequate, the educational programmes for employees
will be entrusted to external educational instit utions and employees will also attend various
international competition policy workshops and symposiums.
75. While there is a diversity of current educational programmes entrusted to external institution,
the most representative courses are; the Seoul National University course on fair trade law and the
vocational training course on Office of Patent Administration Industrial Property Rights. These
courses are run in the form of intensive educational programmes lasting 1-2 weeks. Even in cases
where programmes are entrusted with external institutions, the course or programme fees are covered
by the government.
76. On a government-wide level, the educational programmes dispatching employees to
international organizations and overseas competition authorities, as well as programmes for assistance
in overseas study, are the most significant programmes currently available to employees.
77. By dispatching employees to international organizations, overseas legations and foreign
competition authorities, such programmes provid e valuable educational opportunities to grasp
international discussions and actually experience the best practices of developed countries.
78. In addition to this, 5-10 employees are selected for financial assistance in overseas study
every year. Consequently, employees are contributing greatly to the establishment and enforcement
of competition law and policy in the KFTC after majoring law or economics according to its
relevance in work affairs.
79. Furthermore, the KFTC is encouraging greater expertise and heightened sense of international
activities by sending employees to the International Workshop on Competition Policy held jointly by
the KFTC and the OECD.
V. CONCLUSION
80. In the above presentation, I have introduced the contents of the technical assistance
programme provided by Korea as a country transformed from a recipient of technical assistance to aprovider. Korea's experience of introducing and enforcing competition law was also discussed.
81. Korea introduced competition law in order to alleviate the side effects of government led
growth strategies. By reinforcing the authority of competition law in the application process, a major
contribution was made to economic development and to overcoming the financial crisis.
82. As such, we are confident that Korea's experience will be a good example for those
developing countries wishing to achieve rapid grow th in a short period of time and also for those
transition economies newly introducing the market economy system.
83. At the core of competition law related "capacity building" in developing countries lies, not
only the strengthening of enforcement ability in competition authorities through foreign technical
assistance, but an endeavour to instill in more people the awareness of how beneficial competition
policy can be to economic development and improvements in consumer interests.
84. For this, it is important to ensure that innovative business activities can take place within a
free and fair framework and to exercise competition policies from which consumers can reap the
fruits. The KTFC has raised political support and awareness regarding the importance of competitionWT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 14
policy among people and other government agencies by resolving problems arising from Korea's
economic situation - e.g. chaebol issues and undue intra-group transactions.
85. Although there are opinions arguing that a competition law system is only appropriate in
developed countries where the market economy is settled and economic development already
achieved, competition law can be a means through which consumer welfare is raised and economicdevelopment is reached by transforming a distorted market structure into a competition system.
Policies aimed at restricting market entry of foreign corporations in order to protect the small - to
medium - sized businesses of their own countries, have the adverse effect of impeding economic
development by weakening the competitiveness of their own businesses and turning away foreign
corporations who would otherwise genera te investment and generate employment.
86. Therefore, the core policy of competition policy will be the introduction and enforcement of a
competition law which strengthens competitiveness and increases consumer welfare.
87. Korea has held the utmost of confidence in competition policy and, on the grounds of its own
experience, it has actively supported the introduction and enforcement of competition laws in
developing and transition economies. Thus, it can safely be said that Korea will continue to do so in
the future.WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 15
APPENDIX 1: SUMMARY OF WORKSHOP EVENTS 1 THROUGH 6
Workshop Speakers & Topics
Topics
1st
('96.9.10)
~9.13)1. Deregulation, Trade Liberalization and Competition Policy: Assessment and Prospects (F.
Jenny, OECD)
2. Notes on Instruments of Competition Policy and Economic Development (S. Khemani
World Bank)
3. Prospects for International Codification of Competition Laws (B. J. Phillips OECD)4. The Role of Competition Policy in Econom ic Reforms in Developing Countries (P.
Brusick UNCTAD)
5. Elements of a Competition Law for Developing Nations (J. W. Clark, OECD)6. The Effect of Competition Round on the Industries of Developing Nations (Il-chong Nam,
Asia)
7. Basic Korean Fair Trade Policy Directions and What It Suggests (Nam.Kee Lee, KFTC)
8. International Economic Order under the WTO Regime and the Developing Nation's
Reactions (Tae-Ho Park, KIEP)
9. International Cooperation and Coordination of Competition Policy (Kwang-Sik Shin, Asia)10. Trade & Competition Policy and the Expected Role of the WTO (Young-Soo Woo, KIEP)
2nd
('97.8.4
~8.8)1. The Interface between Competition Policy and Trade, Investment and Economic
Development (F. Jenny, OECD)
2. Market Definition and Abuse of Dominant Position (T. Winslow, OECD)3. Competition and Public Utility Industries (M. Gangi, UNCTAD)
4. Types of and Criteria for Cartel (G. Conner, New Zealand)
5. Types of Vertical Restraints and Their Competitive Effects (Kwang-Shik Shin,Asia)
3rd
('98.8.31
~9.3)1. Discussion of Competition Law and Policies on International Fora (F. Jenny, OECD)2. Objectives measures and Effects of Competition Law and Policy (T. Winslow, OECD)3. Monopolization & Mergers (F. Souty, Conseil de la Concurrence)4. Exemption of Competition Law and Policies (J. O'Neil, Australian Competition and
Consumer Commission)
5. Horizontal Agreements (Isao Kasubushi, JFTC)6. The Role of Competition Policy in Developing Countries (Byong-Kyun Kim KFTC)7. The Korean Experience on Role of Competition Law and Policy (Won-Joon Kim, Korean
Delegation to the OECD)
8. Abuse of Dominance and Vertical Restraints (Moon-Ji Rhee, Paijai Univ)
9. Consumer Protection (Jin-Guk Kim, Konyang University)
4th
('99.9.6
~9.10)1. The Role of Competition Policy in a Globalised Economy (F. Jenny, OECD)
2. The Role of Competition Policy in Economic Development (F. Jenny, P. Saba, OECD)3. Natural Monopoly and the Competition Regulatory Interface (S. Copley, Australian
Competition and Consumer Commission)
4. Merger Control and Monopolization (G. Allen, Canadian Bureau of Competition)5. Competition Policy in International Fora (H. Qaqaya, UNCTAD)
6. Abuse of Dominance & Vertical Restraints (Kwang-Shik Shin, Asia)
7. The Role of Competition Policy in Industrial Restructuring and Privatization
(Jin-Gook Kim, Konyang University)
8. Horizontal Agreements (Chol-Soo Han, KFTC)WT/WGTCP/W/189
Page 16
5th
(2000.11.
7~
11.10)1. Privatization and Deregulation of Regulated Industries, and Competition Policy (S. Siclen,
OECD)
2. Ways to Establish International Framework on Competition Law and Policy, including
International Cooperation (F. Souty, Conseil de la Concurrence)
3. E-commerce and Competition Policy (L. Goranson, OECD)
4. Consumer Protection and Competition Policy (Yong-Soo Won, Korean professor)
5. The Korean Experience on the Enforcement of Competition Law (Seon Hur, KFTC)6. In-depth study on Cartels (P. Rudnev, Australian Competition and Consumer Commission)
6th
(2001.11.
11~11.14)1. "The Experience of Countries Introducing and Implementing Competitive Law"
- Experience of Countries Recently Introducing Competition Law: Thailand, India & thePhilippines- Countries preparing to Introduce Competition Law: China & Vietnam
- The Application Experience of Economies in Transition: Russia, Estonia, Slovenia,
Romania, Latvia & Ukraine- The Experience of Countries Currently Implementing Competition Law: Taiwan etc.
2. Innovation and Competition Policy (by OECD Lecturer)3. The Role of Competition Advocacy after Privatization (by Commission Lecturer)
Participating Countries
Countries
1st
(24 participants from
12 countries)Chinese Taipei, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, China, Indonesia, Vietnam,
Russia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Thailand
2nd
(23 participants from
11 countries)Chinese Taipei, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico,
Chile, Thailand, Philippines, Russia
3rd
(20 participants from
10 countries)Chinese Taipei, Singapore, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, Thailand,Philippines, Hong Kong, Russia
4th
(20 participants from
13 countries)Chinese Taipei, Singapore, Thailand, Romania, Turkey, China, Malaysia,Philippines, Vietnam, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Papua New Guinea, Russia
5th
(18 participants from
11 countries)Chinese Taipei, Singapore, Thailand, Romania, China, Malaysia, Indonesia,
Vietnam, Sri Lanka, India, Russia
6th
(17 participants from
12 countries)Chinese Taipei, Thailand, Romania, China, Russia, Indonesia, Vietnam,
Latvia, Ukraine, Slovenia, Estonia, Philippines.
__________
| 6,450 | 44,247 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_DS_92-5.pdf
|
Q_WT_DS_92-5
|
WORLD TRADE WT/DS92/5
5August 1997
ORGANIZATION(97-3297)
Original: English
INDIA -QUANTITATIVE RESTRICTIONS ONIMPORTS OF
AGRICULTURAL, TEXTILE AND INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
Request toJoinConsultations
Communication from Australia
Thefollowing communication, dated 30July1997, fromthePermanent Mission ofAustralia
tothePermanent Mission ofCanada, thePermanent Mission ofIndia andtotheDispute Settlement
Body, iscirculated inaccordance withArticle 4.11oftheDSU.
______________________
Pursuant toparagraph 11ofArticle 4oftheUnderstanding onRules andProcedures Governing
theSettlement ofDisputes (DSU), theAustralian Government hereby notifies theGovernment ofIndia
that,inlightofthesubstantial trade interest ofAustralia, itdesires tobejoined intheconsultations
under Article XXII:1 ofGATT 1994 requested byCanada inacommunication circulated toWTO
Members on22July1997 (WT/DS92/1), entitled "India -Quantitative Restrictions onImports of
Agricultural, Textile andIndustrial Products".
Australia hasasubstantial trade interest intheproducts subject tothequantitative restrictions
referred tointherequest ofCanada. Australia exported over$A200 million ofsuchproducts toIndia
in1996/97.
| 108 | 1,175 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_PLURI_GPA_W290.pdf
|
Q_PLURI_GPA_W290
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/Q_IP_N_1ARGU2.pdf
|
Q_IP_N_1ARGU2
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/R_G_MATAR_RS63C1.pdf
|
R_G_MATAR_RS63C1
|
RESTRICTEDORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEG/MA/TAR/RS/63/Corr.1
20 juillet 2000
(00-3002)
Comité de l'accès aux marchés Original: anglais
RECTIFICATIONS ET MODIFICATIONS DES LISTES
Liste XII - Inde
Corrigendum
La Mission permanente de l'Inde a fait parvenir au Secrétariat la communication ci-après,
datée du 5 juillet 2000.
_______________
Suite aux réserves émises par certains Membres de l'Organisation mondiale du commerce
dans les délais prévus dans la Décision du 26 mars 1980 concernant les procédures de modification
et de rectification des listes de concessions tarifaires (L/4962; IBDD, S27) au sujet de la notification
de l'Inde relative aux rectifications et modifications apportées à la Liste XII de l'Inde (document
G/MA/TAR/RS/63 daté du 16 décembre 1999), il convient de remplacer la première phrase de la note
de bas de page figurant sur toutes les pages de ce document par la phrase ci-après1:
"The revised tariff bindings shall take effect from the first of March for the respective year."La seconde phrase de la note de bas de page figurant sur toutes les pages reste inchangée.
__________
1 En anglais seulement.
| 172 | 1,189 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_ADP_N119.pdf
|
Q_G_ADP_N119
|
WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATION G/ADP/N/119
30 June 2004
(04-2813)
Committee on Anti-Dumping Practices
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORTS UNDER ARTICLE 16.4
OF THE AGREEMENT
1. Under Article 16.4 of the WTO Agreement on Im plementation of Article VI of the General
Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994, Members shall submit, on a semi-annual basis, reports of any
anti-dumping actions taken with in the preceding six months.
2. All Members are therefore invited to submit their semi-annual reports covering the period
1 January-30 June 2004 not later than 31 August 2004
. Members which have not taken any action
within the reporting period are also inv ited to inform the Committee accordingly.
3. Members are requested to utilize the format adopted by the Committee (G/ADP/1, dated
21 November 1995), when preparing their reports, and to include in the reports tables regarding
definitive measures in force, unde rtakings in force and revocations of anti-dumping measures as
required by that format. Members will recall that, as provided in the format, information on all cases pending at the end of the period should be reporte d even if there was no action taken during the period
for which the report is provided.
4. Reports received in reply to the above request will be issued in addenda to this document.
__________
| 212 | 1,341 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_WT_TPR_122.pdf
|
S_WT_TPR_122
|
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOWT/TPR/122
11 de octubre de 2002
(02-5458)
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales
MECANISMO DE EXAMEN DE LAS POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES
Informe del Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales para 2002
Presidenta: Excma. Sra. Amina Chawahir Mohamed (Kenya)
1. El Mecanismo de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales (MEPC) establecido en 1989 con
carácter provisional quedó confirmado en el Anexo 3 del Acuerdo de Marrakech por el que se
establece la Organización Mundial del Comercio. C onforme al Acuerdo, el Órgano de Examen de las
Políticas Comerciales (OEPC) realizó una evalua ción del funcionamiento del MEPC en 1999. Las
conclusiones de su evaluación fueron que éste funciona con eficacia, que tanto su misión como sus
objetivos siguen siendo importantes y que, todos los Miembros deberían ser objeto de examen almenos una vez y a la mayor brevedad; además, ha demostrado tener "un valioso aspecto de
aportación al bien común, en particular por su contribución a la transparencia".
1 Los Miembros
también han realizado frecuentes evaluaciones del MEPC a lo largo de estos años, las cuales han dado
lugar a la introducción en él de diferentes mejoras de procedimiento desde 1989.
2. En el presente informe del OEPC, que contiene su evaluación anual del MEPC, se analizan
los exámenes de las políticas comerciales realizados en el año 2002 y las principales cuestiones
tratadas en ellos. En los cuadros adjuntos figuran los países Miembros examinados hasta el final de
ese año y la correspondiente cobertura geográfica juntamente con el programa de exámenes propuesto
para 2003.
Objetivos del MEPC
3. La finalidad del MEPC, según consta en el Anexo 3 del Acuerdo de Marrakech, es
"coadyuvar a una mayor adhesión de todos los Miembros a las normas y disciplinas de los AcuerdosComerciales Multilaterales y, cuando proceda, de los Acuerdos Comerciales Plurilaterales, y a los
compromisos contraídos en su marco, y, por ende, a un mejor funcionamiento del sistema multilateral
de comercio, mediante la consecución de una mayor transparencia en las políticas y prácticas
comerciales de los Miembros y una mejor comprensión de las mismas".
4. Para la consecución de ese objetivo es preciso que en el marco del MEPC se examinen
periódicamente las políticas y prácticas comerciales de todos los Miembros. A finales de 2002 se
habrán realizado 165 exámenes en el marco del MEPC desde que éste fue establecido (anexo I). Los
exámenes han abarcado a 89 de los 130 Miembros , contando a la Unión Europea como un Miembro,
lo que representa aproximadamente el 85 por ciento del comercio mundial en 2001. Las políticas y
prácticas comerciales de cinco Miembros fueron objeto de examen por primera vez en 2002.
2
1 Documento WT/MIN(99)/2 de la OMC, de 8 de octubre de 1999.
2 Se trata de los exámenes relativos a Barbados, Eslovenia, Guatemala, Malawi y Mauritania.WT/TPR/122
Página 2
La creciente importancia conferida a los exámenes de los países menos adelantados (PMA) se ha
traducido en la realización de 14 exámenes de éstos desde 1998.3
5. El Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales efectuará 15 exámenes en 2002
(anexo II).4 Los informes de la Secretaría sobre los exámenes de la Unión Europea, Malawi y Zambia
se prepararon con la ayuda de consultores, bajo la atenta supervisión del personal de la Secretaría.5
La experiencia adquirida gracias al Fondo Fiduciario de Alemania tuvo un valor incalculable en la
preparación de los exámenes de Malawi, Mauritania y Zambia.6 En los informes de la Secretaría
sobre Ghana y la República Eslovaca también colaboraron consultores, con cargo al presupuesto de la
Secretaría. Los informes de la Secretaría se siguen redactando en estrecha colaboración con las
autoridades del país examinado.
6. Los procedimientos seguidos para los exámenes realizados en el año 2002 se han desarrollado
por regla general sin tropiezos, aunque no se terminase el examen previsto de Haití. No obstante,como este examen ya está preparado, será posible terminarlo en 2003. Por lo general, se atendió a las
solicitudes de documentación y de cuestionarios dentro del plazo previsto o poco después de que
venciera. Conforme a la práctica reciente, la Secretaría ha procurado reducir la carga que supone la
presentación de respuestas para el Miembro objeto de examen, utilizando en la medida de lo posible
otras fuentes de información, por ejemplo, los sitios Web oficiales de los Miembros u otros sitiosoficiales de Internet. No se ha podido recurrir a esas fuentes para todos los países objeto de examen,
por lo que se siguen enviando solicitudes de documentación acompañadas de un cuestionario
detallado cuando no se puede obtener suficiente información de fuentes alternativas. Las misiones de
funcionarios de la Secretaría a las capitales han continuado siendo provechosas, y pertinentes en
general las observaciones hechas acerca de los borradores de la Secretaría. En definitiva, se hapreservado la calidad al igual que el contenido y el estilo de los exámenes.
7. Los exámenes realizados en el año 2002 estuvieron bien repartidos a lo largo del año, lo que
redujo la presión que comporta para los Miembros la preparación de las reuniones de examen a
intervalos muy próximos, habiéndose procurado asimismo que éstas no coincidieran con otras
reuniones de la OMC. El acuerdo de cooperac ión editorial concertado con una empresa editora
internacional ha abreviado considerablemente el lapso que separa la reunión de examen de la
publicación de los textos correspondientes.
8. El programa de exámenes propuesto para el año 2003 comprende los exámenes de los
17 Miembros siguientes, entre los que se encuentra la Unión Aduanera del África Meridional
(SACU: Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Sudáfrica y Swazilandia):
• el Canadá, en el marco del ciclo de dos años;
3 Los países menos adelantados objeto de examen desde la creación del MEPC son: Bangladesh (dos
veces), Benin, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Islas Salomón, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Malí, Mauritania,Mozambique, Senegal, Tanzanía, Togo, Uganda (dos veces) y Zambia (dos veces). Véase también la nota 4.
4 Además, la documentación y la reunión para el primer examen de Haití estaban completamente
preparadas pero, en el último momento, la delegación haitiana no pudo asistir.
5 La documentación de la Secretaría para el ex amen previsto de Haití se preparó del mismo modo.
6 En el año 2000 la República Federal de Al emania aportó 1 millón de marcos alemanes
desembolsables a lo largo de un período de cuatro años para realizar exámenes de países en desarrollo y para
mejorar el mecanismo con vistas a adaptarlo mejor a la s necesidades específicas de esos países. El examen
previsto de Haití también se benefició de la experiencia adquirida con el Fondo.WT/TPR/122
Página 3
• Filipinas, Indonesia, la SACU, Tailandia y Turquía, en el marco del ciclo de cuatro
años;
• Bulgaria, Chile, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Marruecos y Nueva Zelandia, en el
marco del ciclo de seis años; y
• cuatro países menos adelantados: Burundi, Maldivas, Níger y Senegal (así como
Lesotho, en el marco del examen de la SACU).
9. El OEPC se propone volver a establecer en el año 2003 un calendario de exámenes que
asegure una mejor repartición de los exámenes de modo que se evite la concentración de los mismos ylos retrasos registrados en el pasado.
Valor del MEPC
10. Según lo previsto en el Anexo 3, el MEPC sigue siendo un foro valioso para garantizar la
transparencia de las políticas y prácticas comerciales de los Miembros así como para lograr una mejor
comprensión de las mismas y sigue coadyuvando por ende a un mejor funcionamiento del sistemamultilateral de comercio. Constituye un foro en el que los Miembros pueden debatir abiertamente las
respectivas políticas y prácticas comerciales y proceder a un análisis objetivo de éstas. Los informes
preparados por la Secretaría ofrecen un análisis independiente y objetivo de las políticas y prácticas
comerciales de los diferentes Miembros examinados y han sido por lo general valorados
positivamente tanto por el país objeto de examen como por los demás países Miembros. Al presentar
una imagen global de la interacción institucional en la formulación y aplicación de las políticas
comerciales y del efecto de éstas en los distintos sectores, los informes han servido también dereferencia en algunos casos para la formulación de dichas políticas. Por otra parte, para varios países
en desarrollo y menos adelantados Miembros los exámenes han resultado valiosos para destacar sus
limitaciones de infraestructura y sus necesidades de asistencia técnica.
11. En el proceso de examen se analiza no sólo la formulación de políticas comerciales sino
igualmente las repercusiones económicas de las medidas comerciales y se sitúan los regímenescomercial y económico de cada Miembro en el contexto más amplio de la evolución de la respectiva
región. Dada la creciente importancia de los acuerdos y agrupaciones comerciales regionales, el
análisis contenido en los informes ha resultado útil para analizar la repercusión más amplia de los
últimos acontecimientos económicos en determinadas regiones, así como la cuestión más general de
la repercusión del regionalismo en el sistema multilateral de comercio.
Aspectos que se han puesto de relieve en los exámenes del año 2002
12. Si bien cada examen se centra en las cuestiones y medidas propias del país de que se trata,
hay ciertos temas que son comunes a los exámenes realizados en el año 2002, entre ellos los
siguientes:
• la transparencia en la elaboración y aplicación de las políticas;
• la estabilidad económica y la liberalización del comercio;
• la aplicación de los Acuerdos de la OMC, en particular del Acuerdo sobre Valoración
en Aduana, el Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC y el Acuerdo sobre las MIC;
• los acuerdos comerciales regionales y su relación con el sistema multilateral de
comercio;WT/TPR/122
Página 4
• las cuestiones arancelarias, en particular las crestas, la progresividad, la
racionalización de los aranceles y la diferencia entre los tipos arancelarios aplicados ylos consolidados;
• los procedimientos para el despacho de aduanas;
• las restricciones de las importaciones y de las exportaciones y los procedimientos
para el trámite de licencias;
• la utilización de medidas especiales, por ejemplo, derechos antidumping y derechos
compensatorios;
• las medidas técnicas y sanitarias y el acceso a los mercados;
• las normas y su equivalencia con la normativa internacional;
• la legislación en materia de derechos de propiedad intelectual y su observancia;
• las políticas y las prácticas de contratación pública;
• la participación del Estado en la economía y los programas de privatización;
• las cuestiones de la política de competencia y de la política de inversiones
relacionadas con el comercio;
• los incentivos como, por ejemplo, las subvenciones y condonaciones fiscales;
• las cuestiones de la política comercial sectorial, en particular la liberalización de la
agricultura y de determinados sectores de servicios;
• los compromisos en el marco del AGCS; y
• la asistencia técnica para la aplicación de los Acuerdos de la OMC y la experiencia
del Marco Integrado.
Cobertura de los países menos adelantados (PMA)
13. En el informe que presentó a la Conferencia Ministerial de Singapur el OEPC sostuvo que
debía prestarse más atención en la preparación de su programa a la cobertura de los PMA, y en laevaluación del funcionamiento del MEPC efectuada en 1999 también se destacó esta cuestión. El
OEPC ha seguido examinando un número de países menos adelantados Miembros. De los 30 PMA
que son Miembros de la OMC, 16 habrán sido objeto de examen a finales del año 2002, de los cuales
tres ese año.
7 Cinco de los 21 Miembros cuyo examen se ha propuesto para el año 2003 son PMA.8
7 Al final del año 2002, los PMA Miembros de la OMC no examinados aún por el OEPC serán:
Angola, Burundi, Chad, Djibouti, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Haití, Maldivas, Myanmar, Níger, República
Centroafricana, República Democrática del Congo, Rwanda y Sierra Leona.
8 Se trata de Burundi, Maldivas, Níger, Senegal y Lesotho, este último en el marco del examen de
la SACU.WT/TPR/122
Página 5
14. Los exámenes de las políticas comerciales de los PMA han ido adquiriendo cada vez más una
función de asistencia técnica y han ayudado a comprender mejor la estructura de la política comercial
establecida y su relación con los Acuerdos de la OMC. Los exámenes también han mejorado la
comprensión que esos países tienen de los Acuerdos de la OMC, lo que a su vez ha contribuido a la
observancia y la integración en el sistema multila teral de comercio; en ciertos casos los exámenes
han promovido una mayor interacción entre los organismos públicos. La amplitud de los informes en
lo que respecta a las políticas de los Miembros permite igualmente que éstos adviertan las posibles
insuficiencias de sus políticas y determinen en qué sectores concretos se puede requerir una asistencia
técnica adicional.
15. Desde el año 2000, la preparación de los exámenes de los PMA responde más
sistemáticamente a las necesidades de asistencia técnica. El proceso de examen de un PMA incluye
ahora un seminario de tres o cuatro días sobre la OM C y, en particular, para sus funcionarios sobre el
proceso de examen de las políticas comerciales y el papel del comercio en la política económica; en
2002 se han celebrado esos seminarios en el contexto del examen de Burundi, Haití, Lesotho, Malawi,
Mauritania, Níger, Senegal y Zambia (se han celebrado seminarios similares en relación con
Honduras, la SACU y Venezuela). El informe de la Secretaría para el examen de un PMA incluye
una sección sobre necesidades y prioridades de asistencia técnica, identificadas en colaboración con elMiembro de que se trate con miras a incluirlas en el proceso del Marco Integrado. Los seminarios y
la sección de los informes de la Secretaría relativa a la asistencia técnica implican una estrecha
colaboración con la División de Cooperación Técnica de la OMC.
Conclusión
16. El MEPC ofrece un foro en el que los Miembros examinan de forma transparente y franca las
políticas comerciales de cada Miembro. Se trata de un foro que se singulariza por el hecho de que la
distinción que se opera en el Mecanismo entre los aspectos de la labor de la OMC relativos a la
observancia y a la solución de diferencias en relación con los Acuerdos permite un debate abierto.
Los 15 exámenes realizados en el año 2002 se han desarrollado satisfactoriamente en términos
generales y dentro de los plazos convenidos con los Miembros. Los exámenes se han distribuido conintervalos regulares entre ellos a lo largo del año, de forma que los Miembros dispongan de tiempo
suficiente para preparar las reuniones. Los ponentes han seguido desempeñando un papel muy útil en
el desarrollo de los debates durante los exámenes. El programa para el año 2003 también se ha
preparado de modo que se eviten los retrasos y la concentración de exámenes.
17. El MEPC sigue cumpliendo con eficacia sus objetivos de transparencia. Sin embargo, el
aumento del número de Miembros de la OMC intensif ica la presión sobre el OEPC para que realice
un número todavía mayor de exámenes. Este hecho, al que se añade la limitación de los recursos deque dispone la Secretaría para la preparación de los exámenes, contribuye a la importancia que reviste
que el MEPC siga funcionando de la forma más eficiente posible dentro de estas limitaciones. En
particular, la cooperación constante entre los Miembros y la Secretaría en la preparación de los
informes resulta esencial, al igual que el cumplimiento de los plazos, para mantener el nivel y la
calidad de los informes, y la buena marcha de los exámenes de los Miembros que lleva a caboel OEPC.WT/TPR/122
Página 6
Anexo I
EXÁMENES DE LAS POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES
Miembros de la OMC examinados en el marco de las disposiciones
del GATT de 1947 y de la OMC, 1989-2002
Europa/Oriente Medio Asia/Pacífico África América
Austria1, aAustralia (4)bBenindArgentina (2)b
Bahrein Bangladesh (2)b, dBotswana Antigua y Barbudae
Chipre Brunei Darussalam Burkina FasodBarbadosc
República Checa (2) Fiji Camerún (2)bBolivia (2)b
Unión Europea (6)bHong Kong, China (4)bCôte d'Ivoire Brasil (3)b
Finlandia1, aIndia (3)bEgipto (2)bCanadá (6)b
Hungría (2)bIndonesia (3)bGabón Chile (2)b
Islandia (2)bJapón (6)bGhana (2)bColombia (2)b
Israel (2)bCorea (3)bGuineadCosta Rica (2)
Liechtenstein2Macao, China (2)aKenya (2)bDominicae
Noruega (3)bMalasia (3)bMadagascardRepública Dominicana (2)
Polonia (2)bNueva Zelandia (2)bLesothodEl Salvador
Rumania (2)bPakistán (2)aMalídGuatemalac
República Eslovaca (2) Papua Nueva Guinea Malawic, dGranadae
EsloveniacFilipinas (2)bMauritaniac, dJamaica
Suecia1 (2)aSingapur (3)bMauricio (2) México (3)b
Suiza (3)b Islas SalomóndMarruecos (2)bNicaragua
Turquía (2)bSri Lanka MozambiquedParaguay
Tailandia (3)bNamibia Perú (2)b
Nigeria (2)bSaint Kitts y Nevise
Senegala, dSanta Lucíae
Sudáfrica (2)bSan Vicente y las Granadinase
Swazilandia Trinidad y Tabago
TanzaníadEstados Unidos (6)b
TogodUruguay (2)b
TúnezaVenezuela (2)
Uganda (2)d
Zambia (2)d
Zimbabwea
29 Miembros
(35 exámenes)19 Miembros
(47 exámenes)29 Miembros
(39 exámenes)26 Miembros
(44 exámenes)
( ) Las cifras entre paréntesis indican el número de exámenes realizados cuando hay más de uno.1 Incluida en la UE desde 1995.
2 Examen conjunto con Suiza (contados como dos Miembros pero un solo examen a efectos estadísticos).a Examinado en el marco del GATT de 1947.
b Examinado en el marco del GATT de 1947 y de la OMC.
c Primer examen en el año 2002.d País menos adelantado.
e Miembro de la Organización de Estados del Caribe Oriental (OECO) examinado conjuntamente con los demás miembros de
la OECO.
Número de exámenes realizados hasta fines del año 2002 = 165
Número de Miembros de la OMC examinados = 103 de 144** (contando la UE como 15)
Número de Miembros de la OMC examinados = 89 de 130** (contando la UE como 1)
= 72% de los Miembros de la OMC** (29 de Europa,
19 de Asia y el Pacífico, 29 de África y 26 de América)
Número de países menos adelantados Miembros de la OMC examinados = 16
Porcentaje del comercio mundial correspondiente a los Miembros de
la OMC examinados (2000) (con exclusión de dobles cómputossignificativos y del comercio intracomunitario de la UE) = 85%
** Miembros de la OMC al 6 de septiembre de 2002.WT/TPR/122
Página 7
Anexo II
Exámenes de las políticas comerciales realizados en 2002
Miembroa Fecha de la reunión
(prevista)Ciclo de examen
(años)
Guatemala 16.1.2002 6
Pakistán (1) 23.1.2002 6
Malawi 6.2.2002 6b
México (2) 15.4.2002 4
Eslovenia 13.5.2002 6
India (2) 19.6.2002 4
Barbados 9.7.2002 6
Unión Europea (5) 24.7.2002 2
Mauritania 11.9.2002 6b
Australia (3) 23.9.2002 4
República Dominicana (1) 7.10.2002 6
Zambia (1) 23.10.2002 6b
Japón (5) 6.11.2002 2
Venezuela (1) 27.11.2002 6
Hong Kong, China (3) 16.12.2002 4
a Las cifras entre paréntesis indican el número de exámenes realizados anteriormente.
b País menos adelantado.
Anexo III
Programa de exámenes propuesto para el año 2003
Ciclo de dos años Canadá
Ciclo de cuatro años Filipinas, Indonesia, Tailandia, Turquía, Unión Aduanera del África Meridional
(Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Sudáfrica, Swazilandia)
Ciclo de seis años Bulgaria, Chile, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Marruecos, Nueva Zelandia
Países menos adelantados (ciclo de seis años) Burundi, Maldivas, Níger, Senegal (y Lesotho, en el marco del examen de la
SACU).
__________
| 3,105 | 19,686 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_S_DCSW_SLE.pdf
|
Q_S_DCSW_SLE
|
WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONS/DCS/W/SLE
24 January 2003
(03-0587)
Trade in Services Original: English
SIERRA LEONE
Draft converted Schedule of Specific Commitments1
Attached is a draft converted version of the Schedule of Specific Commitments of Sierra
Leone in word format. This document does not substitute for the legally binding commitments
undertaken by Sierra Leone in its Schedule of Specific Commitments (GATS/SC/105).
Attached to the draft converted schedule is Sierra Leone's Article II (MFN) Exemption List
(GATS/EL/105) in word format.
The draft converted versions of the Schedule and the MFN Exemption List were prepared by
the Secretariat, at the request of Members, to facilitate the process of negotiations, including the
presentation of initial offers.
______________
1 This document has been prepared, in English only, under the Secretariat's own responsibility and without
prejudice to the positions of Members and to their rights and obligations under the WTO.S/DCS/W/SLE
Page 2
Note: Sectors and sub-sectors are listed accordin g to the WTO Secretariat Services Sectoral
Classification List in docume nt MTN.GNS/W/120 of 10 July 1991.S/DCS/W/SLE
Page 3SIERRA LEONE – SCHEDULE OF SPECIFIC COMMITMENTS
Modes of supply: 1) Cross-border 2) Consumption abroad 3) Commercial presence 4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or Subsector Limitations on Market Access Limitat ions on National Treatment Additional Commitments
I. HORIZONTAL COMMITMENTS
ALL SECTORS INCLUDED
IN THIS SCHEDULE3) Commercial Presence requires that foreign
service providers incorporate or establish thebusiness locally in accordance with therelevant provisions of Sierra Leone laws and,
where applicable, regulations particularly with
respect to land and building acquisition, lease,rental, etc.
Foreign enterprises with investment in Sierra
Leone could transfer abroad their profits in
accordance with the existing regulations.
4) Unbound, except for senior management
personnel and technical experts not available
in the local labour market. Prior to a naturalperson working in Sierra Leone, a Work
Permit must be obtained.4) None, with respect to categories of persons
indicated in market access. Unbound for all
other categories of persons.
II. SECTOR-SPECIFIC COMMITMENTS
1. BUSINESS SERVICES
A. Professional Services
(Sub-sectors a-k)1) None
2) None
3) None, other than commercial presence must
take the form of partnership. The foreignventures shall have to be competitive and
registered institutions in their own countries.1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
B. Computer Related Services
(Sub-sectors a-e)1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
CommitmentsS/DCS/W/SLE
Page 4Modes of supply: 1) Cross-border 2) Consumption abroad 3) Commercial presence 4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or Subsector Limitations on Market Access Limitat ions on National Treatment Additional Commitments
F. Other Business Services 1) None
2) None3) Foreign service providers are permitted to
establish service companies or institutionswith Sierra Leonean partners in the form of
joint ventures1) None
2) None3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
2. COMMUNICATION
SERVICES
B. Courier Services
(CPC 7512)1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
3. CONSTRUCTION AND
RELATEDENGINEERINGSERVICES
(CPC 511-518)1) None
2) None
3) Unbound
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments1) None
2) None
3) Unbound
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
5. EDUCATIONAL
SERVICES
(CPC 921-929)1) None
2) None
3) Unbound
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments. Approval shall be obtainedfrom the Ministry of Education1) None
2) None
3) Unbound
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments. Qualifications are as follows:Possession of a Bachelor's degree or above,and an appropriate professional title (e.g.Professor, senior engineer or lecturer or above,
etc.)S/DCS/W/SLE
Page 5Modes of supply: 1) Cross-border 2) Consumption abroad 3) Commercial presence 4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or Subsector Limitations on Market Access Limitat ions on National Treatment Additional Commitments
6. ENVIRONMENTAL
SERVICES
(Sub-sectors A-D)1) Unbound
2) Unbound
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments1) Unbound
2) Unbound
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
7. FINANCIAL SERVICES
A. All insurance and
insurance related services
(CPC 812-8140)1) Unbound
2) Unbound
3) Qualifications for establishing a foreign
insurance institution are as follows:
- The investor shall be a foreign insurance
company with more than 10 years of
establishment;
- Foreign insurance companies seeking
entry into Sierra Leone are required to holdminimum assigned capital at a level twice thatof minimum paid - up capital prescribed for
locally incorporated insurance companies. A
"letter of comfort" from the parent supervisingauthority may be requested to the effect thatany shortfalls in solvency or liquidity of theforeign insurance company operating in SierraLeone would be restored by remittances of
funds from the home country if called upon to
do so.1) Unbound
2) Unbound
3) Requirement of Reinsurance: a foreign
insurance institution shall make its own
arrangements
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
CommitmentsS/DCS/W/SLE
Page 6Modes of supply: 1) Cross-border 2) Consumption abroad 3) Commercial presence 4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or Subsector Limitations on Market Access Limitat ions on National Treatment Additional Commitments
B. Banking and other
financial services
(excluding insurance)1) None
2) None
3) None, other than foreign banks must
incorporate subsidiaries in Sierra Leone toundertake the business of banking. Branches
of foreign incorporated banks seeking entry
into Sierra Leone are required to hold aminimum assigned capital at a level twice thatof minimum paid-up capital prescribed forlocally - incorporated banks. "Letters of
comfort" may be requested from the parent
supervisory authority to the effect that anyshortfalls in solvency or liquidity of thebranch/subsidiary in Sierra Leone would berestored by remittances of funds from the
home country if called upon to do so.1) None
2) None
3) None other than assurance from the parent
supervisory authority of reciprocal treatment ofrequest for establishment of a branch or
subsidiary in that country by a Sierra Leonean
bank in future.
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
8. HEALTH RELATED
AND SOCIALSERVICES
(Sub-sectors A-D)1) None
2) None
3) None, other than foreign service providers
must be registered practitioners in theappropriate disciplines.
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments.1) None
2) None
3) None, other than qualifications shall be
examined and recognized by the Ministry ofHealth
4) Qualifications required from appropriate
educational establishments and minimum oftwo years of experience in the relevant field
9. TOURISM AND
TRAVEL RELATEDSERVICES
(Sub-sectors A-D)1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
CommitmentsS/DCS/W/SLE
Page 7Modes of supply: 1) Cross-border 2) Consumption abroad 3) Commercial presence 4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or Subsector Limitations on Market Access Limitat ions on National Treatment Additional Commitments
10. RECREATIONAL,
CULTURAL AND
SPORTING SERVICES
(other than audiovisualservices)
(Sub-sectors B, C, D)1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
11. TRANSPORT SERVICES
A. Maritime Transport
Services
(CPC 7211-745)1) None
2) None
3) None, other than compliance by ship-owners'
representatives with the relevant laws of
establishing business in Sierra Leone1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
B. Internal Waterways
Transport
(CPC 7221-745)1) None
2) None
3) None, other than in the form of joint venture
with Sierra Leoneans1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
C. Air transport services
(CPC 731-746)1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
E. RAIL TRANSPORT
SERVICES
(CPC 7111-743)1) None
2) None
3) None, other than either in the form of joint
venture with the Government or Sierra
Leoneans1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
CommitmentsS/DCS/W/SLE
Page 8 Modes of supply: 1) Cross-border 2f) Consumption abroad 3) Commercial presence 4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or Subsector Limitations on Market Access Limitat ions on National Treatment Additional Commitments
H. SERVICES AUXILIARY
TO ALL MODES OFTRANSPORT
(CPC 741-749)1) None
2) None
3) None, other than in the form of joint venture
with Sierra Leoneans1) None
2) None
3) None
4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments4) Unbound except as indicated in Horizontal
Commitments
_______________S/DCS/W/SLE
Page 9SIERRA LEONE– FINAL LIST OF ARTICLE II (MFN) EXEMPTIONS
Sector or Subsector Description of measure
indicating its inconsistencywith Article IICountries to which the
measure appliesIntended duration Conditi ons creating the need
for the exemption
ALL SECTORS Full national treatment is
extended to foreign personnel ofthe countries indicated incolumn 3Mano River Union and
ECOWAS member countriesThis measure shall be
maintained as long as theagreements referred to incolumn 2 remain in force or are
extendedTo ensure opening of the
markets in the countries referredto in column 3, as the majortrading partners do not accord
the Sierra Leonean nationals
satisfactory opportunities
ROAD TRANSPORT(PASSENGER and FREIGHT)The supply of road transport
services by foreign supplies intoand across the territory of SierraLeone is limited to vehicles
registered in the countries
indicated in column 3, withwhich Sierra Leone is a party inbilateral or multilateralagreementsMano River Union and
ECOWAS and possibly othercountriesThis measure shall be
maintained as long as theagreements referred to incolumn 2 remain in force or are
extendedTo promote intra-African trade
and facilitate movement ofAfrican citizens into SierraLeone as stipulated in the Mano
River Union and ECOWAS
Agreements.
__________
| 1,605 | 11,228 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_SCMQ3_BRB1.pdf
|
R_G_SCMQ3_BRB1
|
RESTRICTEDORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCEG/SCM/Q3/BRB/1
3 avril 2002
(02-1652)
Comité des subventions et des
mesures compensatoiresOriginal: anglais
SUBVENTIONS
Demandes au titre de l'article 27.4 de l'Accord sur les
subventions et les mesures compensatoires
Questions de la Suisse
La Mission permanente de la Suisse a fait parvenir au Secrétariat la communication ci-après,
datée du 28 mars 2002.
_______________
La Suisse présente les observations et questions ci-après en vue de clarifier certains aspects de
la demande considérée. Ces observations et questions ne préjugent pas nécessairement de sa position
définitive concernant cette demande.
Barbade (G/SCM/N/71/BRB)
Concernant le programme d'abattement pour la recherche et le développement, la Suisse
aimerait demander à la Barbade de compléter les renseignements communiqués dans sa notification,
par exemple en indiquant le nombre de sociétés qui ont effectivement bénéficié de cet abattement au
cours du dernier exercice et ce qu'il faut entendre par " dépenses consacrées aux études de marché et
au développement en vue de promouvoir les ventes à l'exportation des entreprises "?
Pour ce qui est des mesures d'incitation en faveur des sociétés internationales et des
programmes d'allégement d'impôts et de droits en faveur des sociétés à responsabilité limitée, la
Barbade pourrait-elle préciser si ces mesures d'incitation sont accordées à des entités juridiques aussi
bien nationales qu'étrangères et si les mêmes procédures de demande s'appliquent aux entreprisesnationales et étrangères? En outre, la Barbade pourrait-elle indiquer plus en détail le type de critères
correspondant à la définition de " personnes particulièrement qualifiées " pour bénéficier de
l'exemption de l'impôt sur le revenu de 35 pour cent?
__________
| 257 | 1,797 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_SPS_NCOL9.pdf
|
Q_G_SPS_NCOL9
|
WORLD TRADE G/SPS/N/COL/9
29July1997
ORGANIZATION
(97-3192)
Committee onSanitary andPhytosanitary Measures
NOTIFICATION
1. Member toAgreement notifying: COLOMBIA
Ifapplicable, name oflocal government involved:
2. Agency responsible: National Council forStandards andQuality
3. Products covered (tariff item number(s) asspecified innational schedules deposited with the
WTO. ICSnumbers may beprovided inaddition, where applicable): Maize oil
4. Title andnumber ofpages ofthenotified document: Draft Request toGive Mandatory
Force toSections 3.1General Requirements, 3.2Specific Requirements and
6.2Labelling (NTC 512)ofColombian Technical Standard NTC 255(Third Update),
"Edible Vegetable andAnimal FatsandOils. Maize Oil". (8pages)
5. Description ofcontent: Thepurpose oftheStandard istofixtherequirements tobemet
byrefined, decolorized anddeodorized pureedible maize oil.
6. Objective andrationale: Protection ofhuman lifeandhealth, consumer protection
7. Aninternational standard, guideline orrecommendation does notexist [X].
Ifaninternational standard, guideline orrecommendation exists, whenever possible,
identify deviations:
8. Relevant documents andlanguage(s) inwhich these areavailable: Spanish
9. Proposed date ofadoption: From thedateofpublication
10. Proposed date ofentry intoforce: Notfixed
11. Final date forcomments: None
Agency orauthority designated tohandle comments: ICONTEC
12. Texts available from: National enquiry point []oraddress, telefax number andE-mail
address (ifavailable) ofother body:
Ministerio deDesarrollo Económico
División deNormalización yCalidad
Carrera 13No.28-01,piso6
Santafé deBogotá, D.C., Colombia
Tel: 2871328 Fax: 2887004
| 181 | 1,670 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_AG_NEEC29.pdf
|
S_G_AG_NEEC29
|
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/AG/N/EEC/29
2 de febrero de 2001
(01-0528)
Comité de Agricultura Original: inglés
NOTIFICACIÓN
El 11 de enero de 2001 se recibió de las Comunidades Europeas la notificación adjunta,
relativa a las importaciones sujetas a contingentes arancelarios durante la campaña de
comercialización de 1999/2000 (cuadro MA.2 ).G/AG/N/EEC/29
Página 2Cuadro MA.2
ACCESO A LOS MERCADOS: Comunidades Europeas
PERÍODO DE NOTIFICACIÓN: Campaña de comercialización de 1999/2000
Listas relativas a los compromisos sobre contingentes arancelarios y de otro tipo
Designación de los productos Número de la(s) partida(s) arancelaria(s)
correspondiente(s) a la designación de
los productosCuantía del contingente arancelario en el
período de que se trataImportaciones efectuadas dentro del contingente
durante el período
12 3 4
Animales vivos de la especie bovina ex 0102 90 5.000 cabezas (1.7.99-30.6.00) 5.000 cabezas
Animales vivos de la especie bovina ex 0102 90 5.000 cabezas (1.7.99-30.6.00) 5.000 cabezas
Animales vivos de la especie bovina ex 0102 90 169.000 cabezas (1.7.99-30.6.00) 169.000 cabezas
Carne de animales de la especie bovina, fresca o
refrigerada
Carne de animales de la especie bovina,
congeladaDespojos comestibles:
- De animales de la especie bovina, frescos o
refrigerados-- Músculos del diafragma y delgados
- De animales de la especie bovina, congelados
-- Músculos del diafragma y delgadosex 0201
ex 0202
ex 0206 10 95
ex 0206 29 91) 37.800 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
) (peso del producto)
))
)
))
)27.300 t
Carne de animales de la especie bovina,
congelada
Despojos comestibles:- De animales de la especie bovina, congelados
-- Músculos del diafragma y delgados,
congelados0202
0206 29 91) 53.000 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
) (deshuesada)
))
)
)53.000 t
Carne de animales de la especie bovina,
congelada
- Deshuesada
-- Carne de búfalo ex 0202 30 90 2.250 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
(deshuesada)59 t
Carne de animales de la especie bovina,
congelada
- Cuartos delanteros unidos o separados
- Deshuesada
Despojos comestibles:
- De animales de la especie bovina, congelados-- Músculos del diafragma y delgados0202 20 30
0202 30
0206 29 91) 50.700 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
) (sin deshuesar)
)
)
)
)
)30.360 t
Despojos comestibles:
- De animales de la especie bovina, congelados
-- Músculos delgados (enteros) ex 0206 29 91 1.500 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 953 t
G/AG/N/EEC/29
Página 312 3 4
Pepinos, frescos o refrigerados, del 1º de
noviembre al 15 de mayo ex 0707 00 1.100 t (1.11.99-15.5.00) 935 t *
Albaricoques frescos, del 1º de agosto al
31 de mayo ex 0809 10 00 500 t (1.8.99-31.5.00) 500 t *
Mijo 1008 20 00 1.300 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 1.300 t
Azúcar de caña o de remolacha 1701 1.304.700 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
(equivalente en azúcar blanco)1.304.700 t
Azúcar de caña en bruto que se destine al
refinado 1701 11 10 85.463 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 85.463 t
Fructosa químicamente pura 1702 50 00 4.504 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 4.504 t *
Carne deshuesada de animales de la especie
bovina, fresca o refrigerada
Despojos comestibles de animales de la especie
bovina: músculos del diafragma y delgados,frescos o refrigeradosex 0201 30 00
ex 0206 10 95) 11.000 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)
)11.000 t
Carne deshuesada de animales de la especie
bovina, fresca o refrigerada
Carne deshuesada de animales de la especie
bovina, congelada:
- Las demásDespojos comestibles de animales de la especie
bovina:
- Músculos del diafragma y delgados, frescos o
refrigerados
- Músculos del diafragma y delgados,
congeladosex 0201 30 00
ex 0202 30 90
ex 0206 10 95
ex 0206 29 91) 5.000 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)
))
)4.884 t
Carne deshuesada de animales de la especie
bovina, fresca o refrigerada
Carne deshuesada de animales de la especie
bovina, congelada:
- Las demásDespojos comestibles de animales de la especie
bovina:
- Músculos del diafragma y delgados, frescos o
refrigerados
- Músculos del diafragma y delgados,
congeladosex 0201 30 00
ex 0202 30 90
ex 0206 10 95
ex 0206 29 91) 4.000 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)
))
)4.000 t
G/AG/N/EEC/29
Página 412 3 4
Carne de animales de la especie bovina, fresca o
refrigerada:
- Los demás trozos sin deshuesar, los demás
- Deshuesada
Carne de animales de la especie bovina,
congelada:- Los demás trozos sin deshuesar, los demás
- Deshuesada
Músculos del diafragma y delgados de animales
de la especie bovina, frescos o refrigerados
Músculos del diafragma y delgados de animales
de la especie bovina, congeladosex 0201 20 90
ex 0202 30 00
ex 0202 20 90
ex 0202 30
ex 0206 10 95ex 0206 29 91) 300 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
))
)300 t
Carne de animales de la especie porcina
- Canales o medias canales de animales de la
especie porcina doméstica, frescas, refrigeradas
y congeladas0203 11 10
0203 21 10) 12.000 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)0 t
Carne de animales de la especie porcina
- Trozos de animales de la especie porcina
doméstica, frescos, refrigerados o congelados,deshuesados o sin deshuesar, excepto el "filet
mignon" presentado solo0203 12 11
0203 12 190203 19 11
0203 19 13
0203 19 15ex 0203 19 55
0203 22 11
0203 22 190203 29 11
0203 29 13
0203 29 15ex 0203 29 55
0203 19 59
0203 29 59) 4.400 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
))
)
))
)
))
)
))
)
)147 t
Carne de animales de la especie porcina
- Chuleteros y jamones deshuesados, frescos o
refrigerados
- Chuleteros y jamones deshuesados, congeladosex 0203 19 55
ex 0203 29 55) 28.333 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)6.097 t
Carne de animales de la especie porcina
- Lomos, frescos o refrigerados- Lomos, congeladosex 0203 19 55
ex 0203 29 55) 4.166t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)1.295 t
Embutidos, secos o para untar, sin cocer
Los demás1601 00 91
1601 00 99) 2.400 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)205 t
G/AG/N/EEC/29
Página 512 3 4
Conservas de carne de animales de la especie
porcina doméstica1602 41 10
1602 42 10
1602 49 11
1602 49 131602 49 15
1602 49 19
1602 49 301602 49 50) 4.880 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
))))1 t
Pollos sin trocear, frescos, refrigerados o
congelados0207 11 10
0207 11 30
0207 11 90
0207 12 10
0207 12 90) 4.960 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)))1.124 t
Trozos de pollo, frescos, refrigerados o
congelados0207 13 10
0207 13 20
0207 13 30
0207 13 400207 13 50
0207 13 60
0207 13 700207 14 20
0207 14 30
0207 14 40
0207 14 60) 3.200 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)))))))2.008 t
- Trozos y despojos de aves de corral, excepto
hígados, congelados:
-- De gallos y gallinas:
--- Trozos:
---- Deshuesados 0207 14 10 584 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 584 t
Carne de pavo (gallipavo), fresca, refrigerada o
congelada0207 24 10
0207 24 900207 25 10
0207 25 90
0207 26 100207 26 20
0207 26 30
0207 26 400207 26 50
0207 26 60
0207 26 700207 26 80
0207 27 30
0207 27 400207 27 50
0207 27 60
0207 27 70) 800 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
))
)
))
)
))
)
))
)
))
)
)800 t
G/AG/N/EEC/29
Página 612 3 4
Huevos de aves de corral, con cascarón, para el
consumo humano 0407 00 30 122.060 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 2.400 t
Yemas de huevo
Huevos de ave sin cascarón0408 11 80
0408 19 810408 19 89
0408 91 80
0408 99 80) 6.821 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
) (equivalente en huevos con cascarón)
)6.821 t
Ovoalbúmina 3502 11 90
3502 19 90) 13.945 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
) (equivalente en huevos con cascarón)8.606 t
Leche desnatada en polvo 0402 10 19 62.480 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 60.303 t
Mantequilla 0405 10
0405 90) 8.000 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)7.702 t
Quesos y requesón:
Emmental, incluso fundido ex 0406 30 10
0406 90 13) 15.307 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)8.438 t
Gruyère, Sbrinz, incluso el Gruyère fundido ex 0406 30 10
0406 90 15) 4.307 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)1.737 t
Cheddar 0406 90 21 12.600 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 12.351 t
Quesos que se destinen a una transformación 0406 90 11 16.800 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 15.915 t
Queso fresco (sin madurar), incluido el de
lactosuero, y requesón:
-- Queso para pizza, congelado, cortado en
trozos de no más de 1 g de peso, en
contenedores de al menos 5 kg, con uncontenido de agua del 52% en peso y un
contenido de grasas no inferior al 38% en pesoex 0406 10 20
ex 0406 10 80) 4.462 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)1.506 t
Los demás quesos ex 0406 10 20
ex 0406 10 800406 20 90
0406 30 31
0406 30 390406 30 90
0406 40 10
0406 40 500406 40 90
0406 90 17
0406 90 180406 90 23
0406 90 25
0406 90 270406 90 29
0406 90 31
0406 90 33
0406 90 35) 16.299 t (1.7.99-30.6.00)
)
)
)
))
)
)))14.489 t
G/AG/N/EEC/29
Página 712 3 4
Los demás quesos (cont.) 0406 90 37
0406 90 39
0406 90 50
ex 0406 90 630406 90 69
0406 90 73
ex 0406 90 75ex 0406 90 76
0406 90 78
ex 0406 90 79
ex 0406 90 81
0406 90 820406 90 84
0406 90 86
0406 90 870406 90 88
0406 90 93
0406 90 99)
)
)
)))
)
))
Trigo duro ex 1001 10 00 50.000 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 49.937 t
Avena ex 1004 00 00 21.000 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 21.000 t
Maíz 1005 90 00 500.000 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 500.000 t
Avena trabajada, excepto triturada ex 1104 22 98 10.000 t (1.7.99-30.6.00) 10.000 t
G/AG/N/EEC/29
Página 8 12 3 4
Jugo de uva (incluido el mosto): 826,5 t
- De masa volúmica superior a 1,33 g/cm3
a 20ºC:
-- De valor no superior no superior a 22 euros
por 100 kg de peso neto2009 60 11
-- Los demás 2009 60 19
- De masa volúmica superior a 1,33 g/cm3
a 20ºC:
-- De valor no superior a 18 euros por 100 kg de
peso neto:2009 60 51
--- Concentrado
-- De valor no superior a 18 euros por 100 kg de
peso neto:2009 60 90
--- Los demás)14.000 t
)
))
)
))
)
))
)
)
)
)(1.9.99-31.8.00)
Nota
* Las cifras representan las importaciones realizadas. En los demás casos, la cantidad indicada se basa en las autorizaciones de importación.
__________
| 1,649 | 9,307 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_WT_AIR_2209R1.pdf
|
R_WT_AIR_2209R1
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/R_G_SPS_NUSA68.PDF&Open=True.pdf
|
R_G_SPS_NUSA68.PDF&Open=True
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE G/SPS/N/USA/68
17octobre 1996
DUCOMMERCE(96-4321)
Comité desmesures sanitaires etphytosanitaires
NOTIFICATION
1. Membre del'Accord adressant lanotification: ETATS-UNIS
Lecaséchéant, pouvoirs publics locaux concernés:
2. Organisme responsable: Department ofAgriculture, Animal andPlant Health Inspection
Service (Département del'agriculture, Service d'inspection zoosanitaire et
phytosanitaire/APHIS)
3. Produits visés (numéro(s) dutariffigurant dansleslistes nationales déposées àl'OMC.
Lesnuméros del'ICSpeuvent aussi êtreindiqués, lecaséchéant): Végétaux etproduits
durègne végétal
4. Intitulé etnombre depages dutexte notifié: Plant PestRegulations; Review ofCurrent
Provisions (Réglementation concernant lesparasites desvégétaux; Révision des
dispositions envigueur) -4pages
5. Teneur: L'APHIS souhaite soumettre àl'avisdupublic uncertain nombre dequestions
ayant traitàlaréglementation envigueur relative àl'importation etautransport entre
Etats deparasites desvégétaux. L'APHIS cherche enparticulier àobtenir des
observations surlescritères utilisés pourdéterminer siunorganisme estunparasite des
végétaux, surladétermination dutypededommages directs ouindirects causés aux
végétaux ouauxproduits durègne végétal quidoivent fairel'objet d'uneréglementation,
surlamanière defaciliter letransport d'unEtatàl'autre desorganismes delutte
biologique ainsi queleurutilisation etsurlamanière d'évaluer aumieux ledegré de
sécurité deslâchers d'organismes àcaractère parasitaire pour lesvégétaux qu'ilest
proposé d'effectuer dans l'environnement. L'APHIS seservira desrenseignements
obtenus enréponse àcepréavis d'élaboration d'unerègle pour déterminer s'ilest
nécessaire demodifier laréglementation envigueur etpourexaminer différentes méthodes
visant àmaîtriser lesrisques liésauxparasites desvégétaux dans lecadre de
l'importation, dutransport d'unEtat àl'autre etdulâcher dans l'environnement
d'organismes àcaractère parasitaire oupotentiellement parasitaire pourlesvégétaux.
6. Objectif etjustification: Préservation desvégétaux
./.G/SPS/N/USA/68
Page2
7. Iln'existe pasdenorme, directive ourecommandation internationale [X].
S'ilexiste unenorme, directive ourecommandation internationale, indiquer, sipossible,
lesdérogations àcelle-ci: Lespropositions soumises àexamen etpour lesquelles des
observations sontdemandées sontcompatibles (ouenharmonie) avecleCode deconduite
pour l'importation etlelâcher d'agents delutte biologique (Publication n3dela
CIPV/FAO) ainsi qu'aveclesPrincipes directeurs pourl'évaluation desrisques liésaux
parasites (Publication n2delaCIPV/FAO). Certains aspects decespropositions ne
sontpascouverts parlesnormes existantes. Certains termes etdéfinitions diffèrent
légèrement deceuxduglossaire delaCIPV/FAO, carilsontétécodifiés avant qu'ilyait
euunconsensus international surcestermes. Toutefois, l'objet etlasignification deces
termes sontjugés compatibles avecl'interprétation delaCIPV/FAO.
8. Documents pertinents etlangue(s) dans laquelle (lesquelles) ilssont disponibles:
61FR50767, 27septembre 1996; 7CFR Part330
9. Dateprojetée pourl'adoption: Adéterminer.
10. Date projetée pour l'entrée envigueur: Ladated'entrée envigueur seraindiquée au
moment delapublication dutextedéfinitif dansleFederal Register.
11. Datelimite pourlaprésentation desobservations: 26décembre 1996
Organisme ouautorité désigné pour traiter lesobservations: Service d'inspection
zoosanitaire etphytosanitaire, Département del'agriculture desEtats-Unis.
12. Entité auprès delaquelle letexte peutêtreobtenu: point national d'information []ou
adresse, numéro detéléfax etadresse électronique (lecaséchéant) d'unautre organisme:
USDA/FAS/OFSTS
Attn: Carolyn F.Wilson
Room 5545 South Agriculture Building
14thandIndependence
Washington, D.C. 20250
Tél.: (202) 7202239
Fax: (202) 6900677
Courrier électronique: [email protected]
| 361 | 3,858 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_IP_C_W76A5.pdf
|
R_IP_C_W76A5
|
RESTRICTED
ORGANISATION MONDIALE IP/C/W/76/Add.5
3septembre 1997
DUCOMMERCE(97-3545)
Original: anglais Conseil desaspects desdroits depropriété
intellectuelle quitouchent aucommerce
RENSEIGNEMENTS FOURNIS PAR LESMEMBRES, CONCERNANT TOUS
LESSYSTEMES D'ENREGISTREMENT DESINDICATIONS
GEOGRAPHIQUES QU'ILSONT MISENPLACE
Communication delaSuisse
Addendum
Asaréunion du27février 1997, leConseil desADPIC estconvenu d'entreprendre destravaux
préliminaires surlesquestions enrapport aveclesnégociations prévues àl'article 23:4del'Accord
surlesADPIC enprocédant àunecollecte derenseignements. Acetégard, ilainvité lesMembres
àfournir desrenseignements surtouslessystèmes d'enregistrement desindications géographiques qu'ils
ontmisenplace. Ilestfaitréférence auparagraphe 73dudocument IP/C/M/12.
Leprésent document reproduit lesrenseignements reçusdelaSuisse, dansunecommunication
desaMission permanente datée du8août1997.
_______________
INDICATIONS GEOGRAPHIQUES -APPLICATION DE
L'ARTICLE 23DEL'ACCORD SUR LESADPIC
Renseignements surlesystème deprotection nationale
LaSuisse communique lesrenseignements ci-après pourdonner suiteàladécision duConseil
desADPICdu27février1997enrapportavecl'article23:4del'AccordsurlesADPIC(paragraphes73
et74dudocument IP/C/M/12).
I. PROTECTION DESINDICATIONS GEOGRAPHIQUES POUR LESPRODUITS AUTRES
QUE LESVINS
A. Généralités
1. Lalégislation suisse concernant lesindications géographiques ("indications deprovenance")
etlalégislation surlaprotection desmarques sontregroupées sousletitrede"Loifédérale surla
protection desmarques etdesindications deprovenance" (Loisurlaprotection desmarques) duIP/C/W/76/Add.5
Page2
28août1992 (RS232.11).1Cette loidéfinit lesprescriptions régissant laprotection desindications
géographiques pourtouslesproduits etservices engénéral.
2. Par"indication deprovenance", onentend touteréférence directe ouindirecte àlaprovenance
géographique desproduits oudesservices, ycompris laréférence àdespropriétés ouàlaqualité,
enrapport aveclaprovenance (article 471)).Lesnoms ousignes géographiques quinesontpas
considérés parlesmilieux intéressés comme uneréférence àlaprovenance desproduits ouservices
nesontpasréputés êtredesindications deprovenance ausensdelaLoisurlaprotection desmarques
(article 472)).Encequiconcerne lesproduits, seuls le"lieudefabrication" oula"provenance des
matières debaseetdescomposants utilisés" peuvent êtredéterminants (article 481)).Desconditions
supplémentaires peuvent êtrerequises, tellel'observation deprincipes defabrication oud'exigences
dequalité usuels ouprescrits aulieudefabrication.
3. Afindeprotéger lesconsommateurs ainsiquelesconcurrents d'unerégion oud'unezonedonnée
contre lesrisques d'usage frauduleux, detromperie oudeconfusion quant àl'origine d'unproduit
oud'unservice donné, laLoisurlaprotection desmarques interdit strictement l'usage d'indications
deprovenance inexactes ainsi quecelui de"désignations susceptibles d'êtreconfondues avecune
indication deprovenance inexacte" (article 473)a)etb)).Elleinterdit enoutre l'usage d'unnom,
d'uneadresse oud'unemarque "enrapport avecdesproduits oudesservices d'uneautreprovenance"
lorsqu 'ilcréeunrisque detromperie (article 473)c)).Diverses mesures judiciaires sontprévues contre
lesviolations desdispositions pertinentes concernant lesindications deprovenance. Parexemple, celui
quicontrevient intentionnellement àl'article 473)delaLoisurlaprotection desmarques estpassible
d'emprisonnement pourunanauplusoud'amendes pouvant allerjusqu'à100000francs (article 64,
"Usage d'indications deprovenance inexactes"). Ledit article proscrit nonseulement l'utilisation des
indications géographiques inexactes, maisaussi l'utilisation desindications exactes maisquisonten
faitfrauduleuses outrompeuses. L'enregistrement d'unemarque peutêtredéclaré nuletnonavenu
sicettemarque comporte uneindication géographique inexacte (article 52).L'usage frauduleux d'une
marque estégalement punid'emprisonnement oud'amendes (article 62).
4. Dans lescasoùl'intérêt del'économie engénéral oudesecteurs particuliers lecommande,
leConseil fédéral peutpréciser lesconditions auxquelles uneindication deprovenance suisse peutêtre
utilisée pour desproduits oudesservices déterminés, celaaprès avoir entendu lescantons etles
associations professionnelles ouéconomiques intéressés (article 50delaLoisurlaprotection des
marques). Celaaétéfaitnotamment pourlesmontres dans"l'Ordonnance du23décembre 1971réglant
l'utilisation dunom"Suisse" pourlesmontres" (RS232.119).
B. Indications géographiques pourlesproduits agricoles etleurs dérivés
5. L'attention estégalement appelée surlefaitque,encequiconcerne lesproduits agricoles et
leursdérivés,laprotectiondesindicationsgéographiquesestgarantieparl'article18c)delaLoifédérale
surl'amélioration del'agriculture etlemaintien delapopulation paysanne (RS910.1)2etl'Ordonnance
du28mai1997surlaprotection desappellations d'origine etdesindications géographiques desproduits
1LaLoisurlaprotection desmarques, tellequ'elleaétémodifiée le16décembre 1994 (mise enconformité
avec l'Accord surlesADPIC), aéténotifiée en1996 (voir ledocument IP/N/1/CHE/T/1). Depuis cette
notification, laLoietl'ordonnance surlamise envigueur decette loiontfaitl'objet d'autres modifications,
lesquelles seront prochainement notifiées avec denouveaux textes deloidans lecadre d'unemise àjourdes
listes deloisetréglementations.
2Cetexte, soumis àréférendum, aéténotifié en1996 (voir ledocument IP/N/1/CHE/1). Letexte définitif
seranotifié prochainement avecdenouveaux textes deloidanslecadre d'unemise àjourdeslistes deloiset
réglementations.IP/C/W/76/Add.5
Page3
agricoles etdeleursdérivés (RS910.12).3Cestextes excluent lesvins(voirlesparagraphes 6à14
ci-dessous) maiss'appliquent aussiauxspiritueux. L'ordonnance établit unsystème d'enregistrement
équivalent àcelui qu'amisenplace l'Union européenne: lesystème deprotection offert complète
celuiquiaétéétabli parlaLoisurlaprotection desmarques. Lesindications géographiques quine
sontpasenregistrées conformément àl'ordonnance continuent d'êtreprotégées danslecadre delaLoi
surlaprotection desmarques.
II. PROTECTION DESINDICATIONS GEOGRAPHIQUES POUR LESVINS
6. Lasection 5del'Arrêté fédéral surlaviticulture du19juin1992 (RS916.140.14,ci-après
dénommé "l'arrêté") énonce lesnormes fédérales devant êtreappliquées parlescantons encequi
concernelesvendangesetlaqualitéetlesappellationsdesvins.Lescantonspeuventoffriruneprotection
pluslarge maisilsdoivent respecter lesnormes minimales établies dansl'arrêté pourlaproduction
devin.
7. Chaque canton surveille etrégule saproduction devinencequiconcerne laqualité (teneur
naturelle ensucre), lecépage, levolume etl'origine delavendange (article 131)).Auxtermes de
l'arrêté, lescantons doivent présenter augouvernement fédéral unrapport indiquant, entre autres, le
volume etlaqualité delarécolte enfonction descatégories définies àl'article 14(article 132)).
8. Conformémentàl'article14del'arrêté,lesmoûtsetdonclesvinssontclassésentroiscatégories:
catégorie 1: moûtspermettantl'élaborationdevin"d'appellationd'origine"(nomducanton,
delapartie ducanton, delacommune, ducru);
catégorie 2: moûts permettant l'élaboration devinavec"indication deprovenance" (nom
dupays, d'unepartie dupaysouunedésignation traditionnelle);
catégorie 3: moûts nepermettant quel'élaboration devinsans"appellation d'origine" ni
"indication deprovenance".
9. Lesexpressions"appellationd'origine"et"indicationdeprovenance"sontdéfiniesauxarticles16
et17del'arrêté. Lescantons déterminent l'airedeproduction etfixent ledroit àl'utilisation de
l'appellation d'origine. L'"indication deprovenance" nepeutêtreutilisée quepourleproduit desraisins
récoltés danslarégion concernée. Enoutre, lescantons peuvent introduire des"appellations d'origine
contrôlée" (AOC) enindiquant lescritères quidoivent êtreremplis, pourautant quesoient respectées
lesnormes minimales fixées dansl'arrêté ausujetdelateneur naturelle ensucre etducontrôle de
lavendange. Cescritères peuvent comprendre, interalia,ladélimitation deszones deproduction,
l'encépagement, lesméthodes deculture etlesprocédés devinification. Acejour, cinqcantons ou
régions ontutilisé cettepossibilité: Genève, Valais, Vaud, Neuchâtel etlarégion dulacdeBienne.
Lescantons duTessin etdeSchaffhouse enferont probablement demême l'année prochaine. Aux
termes del'arrêté, leDépartement fédéral (ministère) del'économie publique estchargé detenirun
registre desappellations d'origine contrôlée pourl'ensemble duterritoire suisse.
3Cetexte estentré envigueur le1erjuillet 1997. Ilseranotifié prochainement avecdenouveaux textes de
loisdans lecadre d'unemise àjourdeslistes deloisetréglementations.
4Letexte delasection 5del'arrêté aétédistribué ennovembre del'année dernière avec lesréponses de
laSuisse auxquestions posées parlaCommunauté européenne etsesEtats membres danslecadre del'examen
deslégislations surlesmarques defabrique oudecommerce etlesindications géographiques.IP/C/W/76/Add.5
Page4
10. Encequiconcerne l'"indication deprovenance" etl'"appellation d'origine contrôlée", les
dénominations géographiques reprennent enrègle générale lesnoms descantons oudescommunes,
bienquedesnoms derégions oudelocalités particulières puissent êtreégalement utilisés.
11. Encequiconcerne laprotection contre l'usage frauduleux, unautretextedeloi,lalégislation
fédérale surlesdenrées alimentaires, estégalement àprendre encompte.
12. Lecommerce duvinfaitégalement l'objet d'uncontrôle visant àassurer laprotection des
appellations. Cecontrôle, dontlesmodalités ontétérécemment définies dansl'article 23a)5del'arrêté,
devrait apporter lagarantie quelesvinsneseront commercialisés quesousuneindication agréée.
Danslecasoùdesirrégularitésseraientobservées,ellesserontportéesàl'attentiondesautoritéssanitaires
et/ou agricoles cantonales quisonthabilitées àprendre d'autres mesures. Lesvinsfontl'objet d'un
contrôle aléatoire quelesautorités sanitaires cantonales effectuent envuededéceler l'usage d'indications
frauduleuses outrompeuses etd'ymettre fin(législation fédérale surlesdenrées alimentaires).
13. Lesvoiesderecours existantes sontessentiellement lesprocédures judiciaires contre l'utilisation
illicite d'unedénomination. Encequiconcerne lesvinsduterroir, lescritères decontrôle etles
réglementations pertinentes dechaque canton sontapplicables. Unelistedesindications géographiques
suisses estencours d'élaboration danslecontexte dutraité bilatéral quiseraprochainement conclu
entre laSuisse etl'Union européenne. Encequiconcerne lesindications géographiques étrangères,
ilyalieudementionner lestraités bilatéraux quelaSuisse aconclus avecuncertain nombre depays6
etquicomprennent tousunelistedesindications géographiques protégées, ycompris lesappellations
d'origine. Enl'absence detraités, laprotection estassurée parlesloisapplicables, ycompris la
législation fédérale surlesdenrées alimentaires. Enparticulier, laLoisurlaprotection desmarques
prévoit diverses mesures judiciaires. Parexemple, celui qui,intentionnellement, aurautilisé une
indication deprovenance inexacte ouunedésignation susceptible d'êtreconfondue avecuneindication
deprovenance inexacte, ouauraautrement enfreint lesdispositions del'article 473)delaLoisurla
protection desmarques, estpassible d'emprisonnement pourunanauplusoud'amendes pouvant aller
jusqu'à100000francs (article 64,"Usage d'indications deprovenance inexactes"). Ilfautnoter que
leditarticle proscrit nonseulement l'utilisation desindications géographiques inexactes, maisaussi
l'utilisation desindications exactes maisquisontenfaitfrauduleuses outrompeuses. L'enregistrement
d'unemarque devinpeutêtredéclaré nuletnonavenu sicette marque comporte uneindication
géographique inexacte (article 52). L'usage frauduleux d'unemarque estégalement puni
d'emprisonnement oud'amendes (article 62).
5RS916.140.1: modification du21juin1996 entrée envigueur le1erjuillet 1997 enmême temps que
l'Ordonnance surlecontrôle ducommerce duvin.
6Allemagne, Espagne, France, Hongrie, Portugal, République tchèque, Slovaquie. Cestraités ontéténotifiés
en1996 (voir ledocument IP/N/4/CHE/1).
| 969 | 12,056 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_S_L_97.pdf
|
R_S_L_97
|
ORGANISATION MONDIALE
DU COMMERCES/L/97
11 juin 2001
(01-2923)
Conseil du commerce des services Original: anglais
CERTIFICATION
Liste d'engagements spécifiques du Brésil concernant
les télécommunications de base
Notification d'objection présentée par le Japon
La délégation japonaise a fait parvenir au Secrétariat la communication ci-après relative à la
certification de la Liste d'engagements spécifiques du Brésil concernant les télécommunications de
base (S/C/W/191).
_______________
Se référant au document S/C/W/191, daté du 27 avril 2001, contenant la Liste révisée
d'engagements spécifiques du Brésil concernant les télécommunications de base, le Japon accueille
avec satisfaction, dans leurs grandes lignes, les améliorations apportées, en particulier celles qui se
rapportent au Document de référence contraignant inclus en tant qu'engagements additionnels.
Toutefois, le Japon est quelque peu préoccupé par la note liminaire iii) de la Liste révisée
d'engagements spécifiques du Brésil, dans la mesure où elle pourrait signifier qu'il est loisible à ce
pays d'imposer une limite globale à la participation étrangère au capital. Si une formule de ce type estreprise par d'autres Membres dans leurs Listes d'engagements spécifiques, la sécurité ou la
prévisibilité juridiques des engagements pris dans le cadre de l'AGCS resteront menacées.
Étant donné la préoccupation exprimée ci-dessus et conformément à la Décision du Conseil
du commerce des services du 14 avril 2000 (S/L/84), le Japon fait objection par la présente à la Listerévisée d'engagements spécifiques du Brésil concernant les télécommunications de base et souhaite
engager des consultations avec ce pays pour voir comment arriver à une solution satisfaisante.
__________
| 244 | 1,745 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_DSB_W240.pdf
|
Q_WT_DSB_W240
|
./.WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONWT/DSB/W/240
26 August 2003
(03-4425)
Dispute Settlement Body
29 August 2003
PROPOSED AGENDA
I. SURVEILLANCE OF IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED
BY THE DSB
A. UNITED STATES – A NTI-DUMPING ACT OF 1916: S TATUS REPORT BY THE UNITED STATES
(WT/DS136/14/A DD.18 – WT/DS162/17/A DD.18)
B. UNITED STATES – SECTION 211 O MNIBUS APPROPRIATIONS ACT OF 1998: S TATUS REPORT
BY THE UNITED STATES (WT/DS176/11/A DD.11)
C. UNITED STATES – A NTI-DUMPING MEASURES ON CERTAIN HOT -ROLLED STEEL PRODUCTS
FROM JAPAN : STATUS REPORT BY THE UNITED STATES (WT/DS184/15/A DD.11)
D. EGYPT – D EFINITIVE ANTI -DUMPING MEASURES ON STEEL REBAR FROM TURKEY : S TATUS
REPORT BY EGYPT (WT/DS211/7/A DD.3)
II. AUSTRALIA – CERTAIN MEASURES AFFECTING THE IMPORTATION OF
FRESH FRUIT AND VEGETABLES
A. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY THE PHILIPPINES (WT/DS270/5/R EV.1)
III. EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES – EXPORT SUBSIDIES ON SUGAR
A. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY AUSTRALIA (WT/DS265/21)
B. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY BRAZIL (WT/DS266/21)
C. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY THAILAND (WT/DS283/2)
IV. UNITED STATES – ANTI-DUMPING MEASURES ON CEMENT FROM MEXICO
A. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY MEXICO (WT/DS281/2)
V. UNITED STATES – ANTI-DUMPING MEASURES ON OIL COUNTRY TUBULAR
GOODS (OCTG) FROM MEXICO
A. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY MEXICO (WT/DS282/2)
VI. UNITED STATES – COUNTERVAILING DUTIES ON STEEL PLATE FROM
MEXICO
A. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY MEXICO (WT/DS280/2)WT/DSB/W/240
Page 2
VII. EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES – MEASURES AFFECTING THE APPROVAL AND
MARKETING OF BIOTECH PRODUCTS
A. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY THE UNITED STATES (WT/DS291/23)
B. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY CANADA (WT/DS292/17)
C. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY ARGENTINA (WT/DS293/17)
VIII. EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES – PROTECTION OF TRADEMARKS AND
GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATIONS FOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS AND
FOODSTUFFS
A. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY THE UNITED STATES (WT/DS174/20)
B. REQUEST FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PANEL BY AUSTRALIA (WT/DS290/18)
IX. JAPAN – MEASURES AFFECTING THE IMPORTATION OF APPLES
A. REPORT OF THE PANEL (WT/DS245/R)
X. PROPOSED NOMINATION FOR THE INDICATIVE LIST OF GOVERNMENTAL
AND NON-GOVERNMENTAL PANELISTS (WT/DSB/W/239)
OTHER BUSINESS
__________
| 367 | 2,407 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_IP_C_W408A3-01.pdf
|
Q_IP_C_W408A3-01
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/S_WT_ACC_VNM21.pdf
|
S_WT_ACC_VNM21
|
RESTRICTEDORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOWT/ACC/VNM/21
5 de diciembre de 2001
(01-6202)
Grupo de Trabajo sobre la
Adhesión de Viet NamOriginal : inglés
ADHESIÓN DE VIET NAM
Plan de Acción para la aplicación del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC
El Gobierno de la República Socialista de Viet Nam ha presentado el siguiente Plan de
Acción para la aplicación del Acuerdo sobre los Aspectos de los Derechos de Propiedad Intelectual
relacionados con el Comercio (ADPIC) con el ruego de que se distribuya a los miembros del Grupo
de Trabajo.
_______________WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 2
Plan de Acción sobre la aplicación del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC
Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
En lo que respecta a las Partes II, III y IV del
Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC, los Miembros cumplirán
con los artículos 1 a 12 y 19 del Convenio de Paríspara la Protección de la Propiedad Industrial.
Artículo 2.Convenio de París para la Protección de la Propiedad Industrial :
Viet Nam es miembro del Convenio de París desde el 8 de marzo de 1949.
De conformidad con el inciso 2) del artículo 1 del
Convenio de París, la propiedad industrial tiene porobjeto las patentes de invención, los modelos de
utilidad, los dibujos y modelos industriales, las
marcas de fábrica o de comercio, las marcas deservicios, los nombres comerciales, las indicacionesde procedencia o denominaciones de origen y larepresión de la competencia desleal.Según el capítulo II de la Sexta Parte del Código Civil (d enominado en adelante Código Civil) y las disposiciones del
Decreto del Gobierno 63/CP de 24 de octubre de 1996 sobre las especificaciones de los reglamentos relativos a lapropiedad industrial y enmendados por el Decreto 06/2001/NDCP de 1º de febrero de 2001 (denominado en adelante
Decreto 63/CP):
Se protegen las invenciones, las soluciones de utilidad (incluidos los modelos de utilidad), los dibujos o modelos
industriales, las marcas de fábrica o de comercio (incluidas las marcas de servicios) y las denominaciones de origen.
Con arreglo al Decreto del G obierno 54/2001/ND-CP de 3 de marzo de 2001 sobre la protección de los derechos de
propiedad industrial de los secretos comerciales, las indi caciones geográficas, los nombres comerciales y la protección
de los derechos frente a la competencia desleal relacionada con la propiedad industrial (denominado en adelante Decreto
54/2001/ND-CP):
Se protegen las indicaciones geográficas (a excepción de la s denominaciones de origen), los nombres comerciales y el
derecho contra la competencia desleal.
De conformidad con el Decret o 13/2001/ND-CP de 20 de abril de 2001 s obre la protección de las nuevas obtenciones
vegetales:
Se protegen las nuevas obtenciones vegetales.
De acuerdo al inciso 3) del artículo 1 del Convenio
de París, la propiedad industrial se aplicará no sólo
a la industria y al comercio propiamente dichos sinotambién a las industrias extractivas y a todos losproductos manufacturados o naturales, por ejemploa los vinos, cereales, tabaco en rama, frutas,
ganado, minerales, aguas minerales, cervezas,
flores y harinas.Los derechos de propiedad industrial protegidos en virtud del Código Civil, el Decreto Nº 63/CP y el Decreto
Nº 54/2001/ND-CP se aplicarán a todas las industrias y establecimientos comerciales en sentido amplio, incluidas la
agricultura, las industrias extractivas y las manufactureras.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 3Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
De conformidad con el artículo 2 del Convenio de
París, los nacionales de cada uno de los países de laUnión gozarán en todos los demás países de la
Unión, en lo que se refiere a la protección de la
propiedad industrial, de las ventajas que las leyesrespectivas concedan a sus nacionales y gozarán dela misma protección y de las mismas medidasjurídicas correctivas aplicables a cualquier
infracción de sus derechos, siempre y cuando
cumplan las condiciones y formalidades impuestasa los nacionales.Código Civil (artículo 837):
Los derechos de propiedad industrial de las personas físicas y jurídicas extranjeras en relación a los objetos de propiedad
industrial respecto de los cuales el Estado ha otorgado un títu lo de protección deberán ser pr otegidos de conformidad con
la ley de la República Socialista de Viet Nam y los convenios internacionales suscritos por Viet Nam.
Decreto 63/CP (apartado a) del párrafo 1 del artículo 67):Las personas físicas y jurídicas extranjeras beneficiarias del Convenio de París tienen el derecho de solicitar la protección
de sus derechos de propiedad industrial en Viet Nam y de gozar de estos derechos y estarán sujetas a las mismasobligaciones que las instituciones vietnamitas.
El artículo 3 del Convenio de París dispone que losnacionales de los países que no forman parte de laUnión pero que están domiciliados en los países dela Unión o que poseen establecimientos industrialeso comerciales "efectivos y serios" en el territorio de
alguno de los países de la Unión recibirán igual
trato que los nacionales del país de la Unión.Código Civil (artículo 837):
Los derechos de propiedad industrial de las personas físicas y jurídicas extranjeras relacionadas con objetos de propiedad
industrial a los que el Estado ha otorgado un título de protecci ón estarán protegidos en virtud de la legislación de la
República Socialista de Viet Nam y de los convenios internacionales que ha suscrito.
Decreto 63/CP (párrafo 1 a) del artículo 67):
Las personas físicas y jurídicas extranjeras que se benefician del Convenio de París podrán solicitar la protección de sus
derechos de propiedad industrial en Viet Nam, gozar de esto s derechos, y estarán sujetos a las mismas obligaciones que las
instituciones vietnamitas.
De conformidad con el párrafo a) del artículo 4 delConvenio de París se otorgará un derecho deprioridad para efectuar el depósito en otros países ala persona que haya depositado regularmente en
alguno de los países de la Unión una solicitud de
patente de invención o de modelo de utilidad, dedibujo o modelo industrial o de marca de fábrica ode comercio o su equivalente. Los plazos deprioridad serán de 12 meses para las patentes y
modelos de utilidad y de 6 meses para los dibujos y
modelos industriales y las marcas fábrica o decomercio. El artículo expone en detalle lasespecificaciones técnicas que se requieren para elotorgamiento de esta prioridad.Decreto 63/CP (artículo 17):
El solicitante de un título de protección para una invención, un modelo de utilidad, un dibujo o un modelo industrial o una
marca de fábrica o de comercio puede reclamar su derecho de prioridad basándose en la presentación previa en otro paísde una o varias solicitudes sobre la misma cuestión (la primera solicitud). El plazo para presentar una solicitud de título de
protección será de 12 meses contados a partir de la primera fecha de presentación si se trata de una solicitud para una
invención o una solución de utilidad; de seis meses contados a pa rtir de la primera fecha de presentación si se trata de una
solicitud para un dibujo o modelo industrial o de una marca de fábrica o de comercio.
Para beneficiar de un derecho de prioridad, el solicitante pa gará el derecho respectivo y deberá presentar a la Oficina
Nacional de la Propiedad Industrial de Viet Nam una copia de la primera solicitud, o solicitudes, certificada por la oficina
de recepción respectiva dentro de un plazo de tres meses conta dos a partir de la fecha de presentación de la solicitud.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 4Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
El artículo 4bis establece que las patentes solicitadas
en los diferentes países de la Unión seránindependientes de las patentes obtenidas para la
misma invención en los otros países.Los reglamentos y leyes vietnamitas en materia de patentes no estipulan que la protección de una invención dependerá de
su protección en otros países.
El artículo 4ter establece que el inventor tiene el
derecho de ser mencionado como tal en la patente.Decreto 63/CP (artículo 48):
El inventor o los inventores tendrán el derecho de ser mencionados en la patente.
De conformidad con el artículo 4quarter, la concesión
de una patente no podrá ser rehusada y una patenteno podrá ser invalidada por el motivo de que laventa de un producto patentado u obtenido por unprocedimiento patentado esté sometida a
restricciones o limitaciones.Las leyes y reglamentos vietnamitas sobre patentes no contienen disposiciones que autoricen a rehusar o invalidar una
patente basándose en el motivo de que la venta de un producto patentado o de un producto obtenido por un procedimientopatentado está sujeto a cualesqui era restricciones o limitaciones.
De conformidad con el inciso 1) del párrafo A) del
artículo 5 del Convenio de París, la importación de
un objeto fabricado en otro país de la Unión nopuede ser causa de invalidación de una patente. Enlos incisos 2) y 3) del párrafo A) del artículo 5 sefaculta a los países a prever la concesión de
licencias obligatorias para impedir los abusos, por
ejemplo la falta de explotación, pero la caducidadde una patente sólo podrá ser prevista en el caso deque la concesión de licencias obligatorias nohubieren bastado para impedir estos abusos.Ninguna acción de caducidad o revocación podrá
entablarse antes de la expiración de dos años a
partir de la concesión de la primera licenciaobligatoria.Las leyes y reglamentos vietnamitas sobre patentes no contienen disposiciones relativas a la caducidad de una patente por
motivos de importación de un producto patentado fa bricado en otro país de la Unión de París.
Las leyes y reglamentos vietnamitas no contienen disposiciones relativas a la caducidad o invalidación de una patente
como medio para impedir los abusos aun cuando la concesión de una licencia obligatoria no fuese suficiente para impedirel abuso de los derechos de la patente.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 5Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
El inciso 4) del párrafo A) del artículo 5 prohíbe la
solicitud de una licencia obligatoria por falta deexplotación antes de la expiración de un plazo de
cuatro años a partir del depósito de la solicitud o de
tres años a partir de la concesión de la patente yserá rechazada si el titular de la patente justifica suinacción. La licencia obligatoria no será exclusivay no podrá ser transmitida sino con la parte de la
empresa que explote la licencia. El párrafo B) del
artículo 5 prohíbe la caducidad de los modelos ydibujos industriales de productos protegidos porfalta de explotación o importación.Decreto 63/CP (Párrafo 2 del artículo 51):
Sólo se otorgará una licencia obligatoria cuando el titular de los derechos de propiedad industrial, sin motivos razonables,
no explote el objeto de propiedad indust rial o no lo explote de acuerdo a las n ecesidades de desarrollo económico y social
del país y no se aplicará hasta que hayan transcurrido cuatro años a partir de la presentación de la solicitud de la patente o
bien tres años contados a partir de la fecha de concesión de la patente.
No se otorgará una licencia obligatoria si el titular de los derechos de propiedad industrial tiene motivos razonables para
no explotar el objeto de propiedad indust rial o no usarlo de acuerdo a las necesidad es de desarrollo económico y social del
país.
Una licencia obligatoria será no exclusiva. El beneficiario de una licencia obligatoria no estará autorizado a transferirla a
otras personas, a excepción de transferir la totalidad del negocio que explota la patente.
Las leyes y reglamentos sobre patentes no disponen la caducidad de los dibujos y modelos industriales por motivos de
falta de explotación o debido a la importación de artículos protegidos.
El párrafo C) del artículo 5 prohíbe la caducidad deuna marca a condición de que su falta deexplotación no se explique antes de un plazorazonable y el titular no justifique los motivos de su
inacción. Se permitirá a su titular usarla bajo una
forma que difiera por elementos que no alteren elcarácter distintivo sin invalidar su registro o reducirla protección que otorga la marca. Se permitirá eluso simultáneo de la marca por su copropietario en
tanto que dicho empleo no tenga por efecto inducir
al público a error.Decreto 63/CP (párrafo 2 c) del artículo 28):
La validez de un Certificado de registro de marca de fábrica o de comercio vencerá por solicitud de un tercero cuando su
titular no haya usado la marca sin motivos legítimos durante cinco años consecutivos .
Las leyes y reglamentos vietnamitas no contienen disposicione s relativas a la anulación o re ducción de la protección para
el uso de diferentes elementos que no alteren el carácter distintivo de la marca registrada.
Las leyes y reglamentos vietnamitas no permiten la cotitularid ad de una marca, a excepción de que se trate de una marca
colectiva. Sólo existen disposiciones relativas al uso de una marca por el cotitular de una marca colectiva bajo el régimencomún del colectivo que es titular de la marca de fábrica o de comercio.
Cabe tener en cuenta la enmienda o la abolición de las siguientes disposiciones:
Decreto del Gobierno Nº 12/1999/ND-CP del 6 de marzo de 1999 sobre las medidas administrativas contra las
infracciones en la esfera de la propiedad industrial (apartado c) del párrafo 1 del artículo 6):
El uso de una marca de fábrica o de comercio o de una denomi nación de origen de las mercancías o de un dibujo o modelo
industrial en forma distinta del modelo registrado, aun cuando se indique el registro de la marca de fábrica o de comercio,la denominación del origen de las mercancías o del dibujo o modelo industrial, constituye una violación de lareglamentación relativa a la indicación de la protección industrial y puede ser objeto de multa o advertencia.
Con arreglo al párrafo D) del artículo 5, la
protección de las patentes, de las marcas de fábrica
o de comercio registradas y de los dibujos omodelos industriales no estará sujeta a la indicaciónde dicha protección sobre el producto.Las leyes y reglamentos vietnamitas relativos a la propiedad in dustrial no establecen como condición para la protección la
indicación en los productos de que las invenciones, los m odelos de utilidad, los dibujos y modelos industriales, y las
marcas de fábrica o de comercio han sido registrados.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 6Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
El artículo 5bis prescribe que se otorgue un período
de gracia mínimo de seis meses para el pago de lastasas previstas para el mantenimiento de los
derechos de propiedad industrial, pero se permite
un recargo. Los países están autorizados arehabilitar las patentes caducadas por falta de pagode las tasas.La Circular 3055/TT-SHCN de 31 de diciembre de 1996 que aplica los reglamentos del Decreto 63/CP (denominado en
adelante Circular 3055/TT-SHCN ) (punto 27):
El plazo de vencimiento para el pago de las cargas por mantenimiento es de seis meses antes de la fecha de expiración de
los títulos de protección.
Los derechos de mantenimiento pueden ser pagados después del plazo antes mencionado pero no más tarde de seis meses
contados a partir de la fecha de expiración. En este cas o deberá pagarse un recargo del 10 por ciento de los derechos
exigidos.
Las disposiciones relativas a la rehabilitación de una patente que prescribió por falta de pago de los derechos anuales
podrán ser incorporadas en una circular de sustitución de la Circular 3055/TT-SHCN cuya promulgación se prevé
para 2001.
El artículo 5ter prohíbe que un miembro de la Unión
de París use dispositivos patentados a bordo de unnavío, de una aeronave o de un vehículo terrestreque penetren temporal o accidentalmente en elterritorio de otro miembro.Decreto 63/CP (apartado c) del párrafo 1 del artículo 52):
Su uso para el mantenimiento de las actividades de los me dios de transporte extranjero que entren o se encuentren
temporalmente en territorio vietnamita no se considera una infracción a los derechos de propiedad industrial.
El artículo 5quarter prescribe que los titulares de un
procedimiento patentado tendrán, con respecto al
producto introducido, todos los derechos
concedidos sobre la base del procedimientopatentado con respecto a los productos producidosen el país.Decreto 63/CP (párrafo 1 del artículo 34):
Los titulares de un procedimiento patentado poseen derechos sobre los productos importados fabricados mediante el
procedimiento protegido equivalentes a los que tendrían s obre los productos de fabricaci ón nacional: el derecho de
despachar, divulgar, ofrecer y almacenar para su venta. No existe discriminación entre los productos que se fabrican en
otros países y se importan a Viet Nam y los productos fabricados en el país, si ambos han sido fabricados mediante unprocedimiento protegido sin autorización del titular.
El artículo 5quinquies prescribe que los miembros de
la Unión de París protegerán los dibujos y modelosindustriales.Los dibujos y modelos industriales estarán protegidos en virtud de las disposiciones del Código Civil, del Decreto 63/CP y
de la reglamentación que establ ece las directrices de aplicación.
El artículo 6 establece disposiciones para la
presentación y el registro de las marcas de fábrica o
de comercio conforme a la legislación nacional, si
bien considera que la presentación de la solicitud yel registro son independientes de las disposicionesadoptadas al respecto en otros países, incluido elpaís de origen.Las leyes y reglamentos vietnamitas sobre marcas de fábrica o de comercio contienen disposiciones relativas a los
procedimientos para la presentación y el registro que son independientes de las adoptadas en otros países, incluido el país
de origen.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 7Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
El artículo 6bis prescribe de oficio, si esto es
legalmente posible o a solicitud de parte interesada,que se rehusará o se invalidará el registro, por un
período mínimo de cinco años, de una marca de
fábrica o de comercio capaz de crear confusiónrespecto de una marca registrada muy conocida.No se fijarán plazos límite para reclamar laprohibición o anulación del uso de mala fe de una
marca.Decreto 63/CP (apartado e) del párrafo 1 del artículo 6):
Un signo no satisface los requisitos para su registro si es idéntico o confusamente similar a la marca de fábrica o de
comercio reconocida como muy conocida de otra persona.
Decreto 63/CP (artículo 29):
Un certificado de registro de una marca de fábrica o de comercio será anulado a solicitud de un tercero si la marca no
satisface los requisitos de protección.
Decreto 63/CP (artículo 6):Se considera marca muy reconocida toda marca de fábrica o de comercio que se usa en forma continua para los productos
y servicios reputados y, por consiguiente, ampliamente conocidos.
El artículo 6ter prescribe que los miembros
rehusarán o anularán el registro que incluya sin
autorización escudos de armas, banderas, emblemasdel Estado, signos y punzones oficiales, etc. Estánexceptuados los titulares de los derechos adquiridosde buena fe antes de la entrada en vigor delConvenio en el país.Decreto 63/CP (apartados e) y g) del párrafo 2 del artículo 6):
No se otorgará protección de marca de fábrica o de comercio a los siguientes signos, sin excepción:
- signos idénticos o similares a las marcas de calidad, control, garantía, etc. de Viet Nam, de otros países o de
organizaciones internacionales;
- signos confusamente similares a la imagen de banderas , emblemas nacionales, etc., salvo cuando las autoridades
competentes permitan su uso.
El artículo 6quarter admite la validez de una marca si
el derecho exclusivo para fabricar y vender los
productos que llevan la marca también se transfiere
con la parte de la empresa o del negocio.Las leyes y reglamentos vietnamitas relativos a la propiedad in dustrial no prescriben que la adjudicación de una marca de
fábrica o de comercio se transmita junto con la empresa o el negocio.
El artículo 6quinquies dispone que las marcas de
fábrica o de comercio que han sido debidamenteregistradas en un país de la Unión deberán seradmitidas en los otros países de la Unión, conciertas reservas, y establece las condiciones en las
que el registro de una marca de fábrica o de
comercio podrá ser rehusado o invalidado.Las leyes y reglamentos vietnamitas relativos a la propied ad industrial no contienen disposiciones acerca de las
restricciones para la presentación de marcas de fábri ca o de comercio registradas en otro país de la Unión.
Decreto 63/CP (artículo 6):
Las condiciones que rigen para denegar el registro o invalid ar o hacer caducar una marca de fábrica o de comercio son
compatibles con el artículo 6
quinquies del Convenio de París y se aplican a todas las marcas de fábrica o de comercio, estén o
no registradas en otros países.
El artículo 6sexies establece que los países de la
Unión de París protegerán las marcas de servicios
sin que sea necesario asegurar su registro. Código Civil (artículo 785):
Una marca de fábrica o de comercio es un signo que se usa para distinguir productos o servicios del mismo tipo en
actividades comerciales diferentes. Las leyes y reglamentos relativos a las marcas de fábrica o de comercio, incluidas lasdisposiciones sobre los procedimientos de registro, se aplican tanto a las marcas de fábrica o de comercio como a lasmarcas de servicios.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 8Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
El artículo 6septies establece que los titulares de una
marca de fábrica o de comercio podrán oponerse oreclamar la anulación de un registro o de sus
marcas de fábrica o de comercio si su agente o
representante las explota sin su consentimiento, "amenos que este agente o representante justifique susactuaciones".No existen disposiciones relativas a la oposición al registro de una marca de fábrica o de comercio de un titular extranjero
respecto del uso de la misma por su agente o representante.
Sin embargo, de conformidad con el artículo 837 del Código Ci vil, deberá otorgarse protección a las marcas de fábrica o
de comercio de titularidad extranjera con arreglo a la legislación de Viet Nam y de los tratados internacionales que ha
suscrito.
Por consiguiente, basándose en el artículo 6
septies del Convenio de París, el titular de la marca de fábrica o de comercio
tendrá el derecho de oponerse a la concesión del Certificado de Registro de la marca de fábrica o de comercio (conforme alos procedimientos dispuestos en el artículo 27 del Decreto 63/CP) o de solicitar la invalidación de este Certificado (con
arreglo a los procedimientos y requisitos previstos en el artículo 29 del Decreto 63/CP).
El artículo 7 establece que la naturaleza delproducto al que se aplica una marca de fábrica o de
comercio no será en ningún caso un obstáculo parael registro de la marca. (Se utilizan los mismostérminos en el párrafo 4 del artículo 15 del Acuerdosobre los ADPIC.)No existen disposiciones que permitan denegar el Certificado de Registro de una marca de fábrica o de comercio
fundamentándose en la naturaleza de los productos y servicios a los que se aplica la marca.
El artículo 7bis establece que los miembros deberán
permitir el depósito de las marcas colectivas que
pertenecen a colectividades cuya existencia no sea
contraria a la ley del país de origen, incluso si estascolectividades no están establecidas en el paísdonde se solicita la protección.Decreto 63/CP (apartado d) del párrafo 2 del artículo 14):
El derecho de solicitar el registro de una marca colectiva in cumbirá a las personas físicas o jurídicas que representan a la
colectividad de personas físicas o jurídicas u a otras instit uciones, que a su vez se comprometen a respetar un régimen
común para el uso de la respectiva marca de fábrica o de comercio.
Una asociación podrá considerarse una colectividad; por lo tanto, tendrá el derecho de solicitar el registro de una marca
colectiva. No existen disposiciones que requieran que la asociación esté establecida en Viet Nam.
El artículo 8 prescribe que los nombres comerciales
serán protegidos en los países de la Unión sinobligación de registro, formen o no parte de la
marca de fábrica o de comercio.Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (artículo 5):
Los derechos de propiedad industrial de los nombres co merciales quedarán establecidos automáticamente cuando se
cumplan todos los requisitos, sin que sea necesario su registro en las oficinas estatales competentes.
No existen disposiciones discriminatorias respecto de los nombres comerciales según formen parte o no de la marca de
fábrica o de comercio.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 9Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
El artículo 9 prescribe la incautación de las
mercancías importadas que lleven una marca defábrica o de comercio o un nombre comercial sin
consentimiento, salvo que la legislación del país no
establezca otras acciones y medios, en cuyo caso sedeberán aplicar las medidas y sanciones nacionales.Decreto 12/1999/ND-CP (artículo 12):
Las autoridades aduaneras podrán adoptar medidas contra la importación de productos que lleven una marca de fábrica o
de comercio sin autorización.
Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (artículo 21):
El titular de un nombre comercial de propiedad industrial tendrá el derecho de solicitar que las infracciones sean tratadas
según sus derechos de propiedad industrial respecto de este nombre comercial.
Se prevén medidas de control de los derechos de propiedad industrial en frontera respecto de la importación y exportación
de productos en una Circular Conjunta del Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología y Medio Ambiente y del Departamento
General de Aduanas.
El artículo 10 establece las condiciones deaplicación de la obligación del artículo 9 respecto
del uso directo o indirect o de falsas indicaciones
sobre la procedencia de los productos o de falsasindicaciones sobre el productor, el fabricante o elcomerciante de estos productos.Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (párrafo 1 del artículo 24):
Los actos de competencia desleal relacion ada con la propiedad industrial consiste n en usar las indicaciones comerciales
con el fin de inducir a error respecto de la percepción y la información relativa a las instituciones, establecimientos y
actividades comerciales, bienes o servicios, con el propósito de:
- Aprovechar el prestigio y la reputación de otros productores y/o instituciones comerciales en beneficio de sus
propias actividades comerciales;
- Perjudicar el prestigio y la reputación de otras instituciones comerciales;
- Crear confusión respecto de los orígenes, métodos de producción, propiedades, calidad, cantidad y otras
características de productos y servicios; o sobre las condiciones de la oferta de estos productos y servicios ...entre los consumidores durante el proceso de reconocimien to y selección de las mercancías y/o servicios o de las
actividades comerciales.
Decreto 54/2000/ND/CP (artículo 25):
Las organizaciones y particulares presumible o efectivamente perjudicados por actos de comp etencia desleal en materia de
propiedad industrial tendrán la facultad de solicitar a las instituciones estatales competentes que obliguen a la persona quecomete estos actos a cesarlos y a ofrecer una compensación adecuada al perjuicio ocasiona do, y que apliquen sanciones
administrativas o de responsabilidad penal. Las asociaciones profesionales de las organizaciones y las asociaciones deconsumidores y los particulares pueden ejercer este derecho en nombre de sus miembros.
Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (artículo 27):
Las organizaciones y particulares que cometen actos de competen cia desleal en la esfera de la propiedad industrial, según
la naturaleza y la gravedad de estos actos, deberán ser detenidos y procesados por motivos de responsabilidad penal. Encaso de ocasionarse daños, las compensaciones correspondientes deberán guardar conformidad con lo dispuesto por laLey.
Las disposiciones supra se aplican a los productos importados en la fronte ra y a los que circulan en el mercado interno.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 10Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
El artículo 10bis dispone que los miembros
otorgarán protección frente a los actos decompetencia desleal, incluidos los actos que puedan
crear confusiones de diverso tipo respecto de las
mercancías o actividades de un competidor, y queconsistan en falsas aseveraciones sobre uncompetidor o que puedan inducir a error respecto desus productos.Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (párrafo 1 del artículo 24):
Los actos de competencia desleal relacion ada con la propiedad industrial consiste n en usar las indicaciones comerciales
con el fin de inducir a error respecto de la percepción e información sobre instituciones, establecimientos y actividades
comerciales, y servicios, con el propósito de:
- Aprovechar el prestigio y la reputación de otros productores y/o instituciones comerciales en beneficio de sus
propias actividades comerciales;
- Perjudicar el prestigio y la reputación de otras instituciones comerciales;- Crear confusión respecto de los orígenes, métodos de producción, propiedades, calidad, cantidad y otras
características de productos y servicios; o sobre las condic iones de la oferta de productos y servicios ... entre los
consumidores durante el proceso de reconocimiento y selección de las mercancías y/o servicios o de las
actividades comerciales.
Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (artículo 25):Las organizaciones y particulares presumible o efectivamente perjudicados por actos de comp etencia desleal en materia de
propiedad industrial tendrán la facultad de solicitar a las instituciones estatales competentes que obliguen a la persona que
comete estos actos a cesarlos y ofrecer una compensación adecuada al perjuicio ocasionado, y que apliquen sanciones
administrativas o de responsabilidad penal. Las asociaciones profesionales de las organizaciones y las asociaciones deconsumidores y los particulares pueden ejercer este derecho en nombre de sus miembros.
Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (artículo 27):Las organizaciones y particulares que cometen actos de competen cia desleal en la esfera de la propiedad industrial, según
la naturaleza y la gravedad de estos actos, deberán ser detenidos y procesados por motivos de responsabilidad penal. En
caso de ocasionarse daños, las compensaciones correspondientes deberán guardar conformidad con lo dispuesto en la Ley.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 11Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
El artículo 10ter prescribe que los países de la Unión
se comprometerán a asegurar a los nacionalesextranjeros los recursos legales apropiados para
reprimir los actos previstos en los artículos 9, 10 y
10
bis y a permitir a los sindicatos y asociaciones
representantes de actividades comercialesextranjeras, con carácter recíproco, que procedanjudicialmente o ante las autoridades administrativas
para la represión de estos actos.Código Civil (artículo 796):
El titular de un objeto de propiedad industrial estará habilitado para solicitar que la autoridad estatal competente obligue a
la persona que comete actos de competencia desleal, que cese estos actos y otorgue una compensación apropiada al daño
causado.
Decreto 63/CP(artículo 54):Los derechos de propiedad industrial se rán protegidos por el Gobi erno. Toda infracción a los derechos de propiedad
industrial estarán estrictamente prohibida y deberá ser tratada de conformidad con las disposiciones legales. Las medidas
contra las infracciones del derecho de pr opiedad industrial se adoptarán de acuerdo a las leyes y reglamentos relativos a
los procedimientos civiles.
Las sanciones y medidas de observancia se aplicarán a todos los titulares de un derecho de propiedad industrial, ya sean
vietnamitas o extranjeros, sin discriminación.
Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (párrafo 2 del artículo 25):Las asociaciones de consumidores y las asociaciones profesionales de las organizaciones, y los particulares podrán ejercer
el derecho de solicitar a las autoridades competentes el cumpli miento de sus derechos frente a la competencia desleal en
nombre de sus miembros.
El artículo 11 establece que se otorgará unaprotección temporal compatible con la legislación
nacional a las invenciones patentables, los modelosde utilidad, los dibujos y modelos industriales y lasmarcas de fábrica o de comercio de las mercancíaspresentadas en exposiciones oficiales o
internacionales oficialmente reconocidas que se
organizan dentro del territorio.Decreto 63/CP (artículo 17):
Los solicitantes de un título de protección para una invención, un modelo de utilidad, un dibujo o modelo industrial o una
marca de fábrica o de comercio podrá reclamar la prioridad basándose en la exhibición del objeto descrito en la solicituden una exposición internacional oficial u oficialmente recono cida que se organice en Viet Nam o en otro país. Los
solicitantes presentarán el certificado de exhibición dentro de un plazo de tres meses contados a partir de la fecha de la
presentación.
El artículo 12 prescribe que los países de la Uniónestablecerán oficinas para el registro de lapropiedad industrial de patentes, modelos deutilidad, dibujos y modelos industriales y marcas defábrica o de comercio y para comunicar al público
los nombres de los titulares con una breve
descripción de sus invenciones y la reproducción delas marcas de fábrica o de comercio.La Oficina Nacional de Propiedad Industrial de Viet Nam, establecida en 1982, es la autoridad competente responsable de
llevar a cabo los procedimientos para la concesión de títulos de protección respecto de los objetos de propiedad industrialy la organización de actividades de información sobre la propied ad industrial, incluida la publicación de la Gaceta Oficial
de Propiedad Industrial cuyo contenido guarda conformidad con los requisitos dispuestos en el artículo 12 del Convenio deParís.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 12Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
El artículo 19 autoriza a los miembros a concertar
acuerdos separadamente entre sí y arreglosparticulares para la protección de la propiedad
industrial, en tanto que estos acuerdos no
contravengan las disposiciones del Convenio deParís.Viet Nam ha suscrito acuerdos bilaterales sobre la protección de los derechos de propiedad intelectual con la Federación
de Suiza y los Estados Unidos. Las disposiciones en materi a de protección de los derechos de propiedad industrial de
estos acuerdos no son contrarios al Convenio de París.
Principio del trato nacional, con las excepcionesprevistas en los Convenios de París y Berna, y laConvención de Roma.
Artículo 3Decreto 63/CP (apartado a) del párrafo 1 del artículo 67) y Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (apartado a) del párrafo 2 del
artículo 2):
Las personas físicas o jurídicas que gozan de derechos con a rreglo al Convenio de París p odrán solicitar la protección de
sus derechos de propiedad industrial en Viet Nam, disfrutar de todos estos derechos y, como vietnamitas, estarán sujetos a
todas sus obligaciones.
En cuanto al derecho de autor y derechos conexos:i) De conformidad con los principios jurídicos generales de Viet Nam y con el artículo 836 del Código Civil
promulgado en 1995, que entró en vigor el 1º de julio de 1996 con la adhesión de Viet Nam a la OMC, a losnacionales de otros países miembros del Acuerdo sobre los AD PIC se les otorgará el trato nacional en relación con el
derecho de autor y derechos conexos dentro del territorio de Viet Nam, de conformidad con las disposiciones del
Convenio de Berna y de la Convención de Roma.
ii) Las leyes vigentes sobre el derecho de autor y derechos conexos en Viet Nam no contienen disposiciones que
discriminen entre las cuestiones nacionales y extranjeras respecto de la obtención o ma ntenimiento de la protección
de los objetos de propiedad intelectual.
iii) De acuerdo al Plan de Acción para la aplicación del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC en preparación para la adhesión a la
OMC, el principio del trato nacional quedará garantizado mediante disposicio nes directas contenidas en los nuevos
reglamentos y en los reglamentos de modificación o complemento de las normas vigentes.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 13Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Prescripciones generales Referencias a las leyes y reglamentaciones conexas
Trato de la Nación Más Favorecida con las
excepciones que se enumeran. Artículo 4.Las leyes y reglamentos vietnamitas no contienen disposicione s discriminatorias respecto de las instituciones extranjeras.
A excepción del derecho de autor y derechos conexos:i) Con arreglo a los principios jurídicos de Viet Nam y al artículo 836 del Código Civil promulgado en 1995 que entró
en vigor a partir del 1º de julio de 1996, en el momento de la adhesión de Viet Nam a la OMC, a los nacionales de
otros países miembros del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC se les otorgará el trato de la Nación Más Favorecida respectodel derecho de autor y derechos conexos dentro del territori o de Viet Nam, de conformidad con las disposiciones del
mencionado Acuerdo.
ii) Las leyes sobre el derecho de autor y derechos conexos vigentes en Viet Nam discriminan contra determinados
nacionales de países extranjeros. Esta discriminación deriva de los acuerdos bilaterales que Viet Nam ha suscrito con
los Estados Unidos (1997) y con la Federación Suiza (1990) y del hecho de que aún no sea miembro de acuerdosmultilaterales.
iii) Con arreglo al Plan de Acción para la aplicación del Ac uerdo sobre los ADPIC para preparar la adhesión a la OMC,
el trato de la Nación Más Favorecida quedará asegurado mediante las disposicio nes directas contenidas en los nuevos
reglamentos y en los reglamentos que modifican y complementan las normas existentes.
La Circular 23/TT-TCT del 9 de mayo de 1997 prescribe la apli cación de tipos de derechos diferentes a los extranjeros y a
los nacionales vietnamitas. Deberán tenerse en cuenta las enmiendas a estas disposiciones.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 14 Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Derecho de autor y derechos conexo s Legislación relativa al Derech o de Autor y derechos conexos
Se dará cumplimiento al artículo 1 mediante la
observancia de los artículos de 1 a 21 del Conveniode Berna, con excepción del artículo 6
bis y del
párrafo 1 del artículo 9.i) Básicamente, la reglamentación vigente en Viet Nam s obre el derecho de autor y derechos conexos es compatible
con las normas de principio de los artículos 1 a 21 del Convenio de Berna.
ii) Sin embargo, algunas disposiciones sobre el derecho de autor en Viet Nam no son plenamente compatibles con la
reglamentación correspondiente del Convenio de Berna en lo que respecta al contenido, la expresión y grado de
detalle. La incompatibilidad de estos puntos quedará aclarada más adelante.
iii) De acuerdo al Plan de Acción para la aplicación del Ac uerdo sobre los ADPIC a fin de preparar la adhesión a la
OMC, la plena compatibilidad entre la reglamentación vietnamita sobre el derecho de autor y derechos conexos y ladel Convenio de Berna quedará asegurada mediante las dispos iciones directas contenidas en la nueva reglamentación
y en los reglamentos de modificación y complemento de las normas vigentes.
El artículo 2 define las "obras literarias y artísticas"como "todas las producciones en el campo literario,científico y artístico cualquiera sea el modo o forma
de expresión", lo que ilustra con ejemplos. Las
restricciones en materia de discursos se mencionanen el artículo 2
bis.i) La definición de los objetos que pueden obtener la protección que figura en el artículo 747 del Código Civil es
similar a la prevista en el artículo 2 del Convenio de Berna.
ii) El Código Civil no contiene exenciones como las mencionadas en el artículo 2bis, las obras protegidas deben ser
creadas de una forma determinada.
El artículo 3 establece que estarán protegidos los
autores nacionales de alguno de los países de laUnión de Berna por sus obras y los autores que nosean nacionales de países de la Unión por las obras
que se publiquen simultáneamente en un país de la
Unión y en otro que no pertenezca a la Unión.El artículo 836 del Código Civil establece la protección para las obras de particulares extranjeros en Viet Nam, de
conformidad con las disposiciones de los tratados internacionales suscritos por Viet Nam o a los que ha adherido,incluidos los casos basados en las normas relativas a la nacionalidad del autor y a la publicación simultánea de las obras deque se trate.
El artículo 4 establece que estarán protegidos losautores de las obras cinematográficas no abarcadasen el artículo 3 cuyo productor tenga su sede oresidencia habitual en alguno de los países de laUnión y los de las obras arquitectónicas o artísticas
incorporadas a un inmueble o estructura sito en un
país de la Unión.El artículo 836 del Código Civil establece la protección para las obras de particulares extranjeros en Viet Nam, de
conformidad con las disposiciones de los tratados internacionales suscritos por Viet Nam o a los que ha adherido,incluidos los casos basados en las normas relativas a la sede o residencia habitual del productor de las obrascinematográficas y de los casos en que se incorporan obras ar tísticas o arquitectónicas en un edificio o en una estructura.
El artículo 5 dispone que el autor gozará de los
derechos establecidos por el Convenio de Berna yde cualesquiera otros derechos que se concedan alas obras dentro del país, según el principio del tratonacional y sin que deba cumplir formalidad alguna.i) El artículo 836 del Código Civil di spone la protección de las obras de personas extranjeras conforme a las
disposiciones de los tratados internacionales suscritos por Viet Nam, incluida la ap licación del trato nacional.
ii) El artículo 754 del Código Civil establece que el derech o de autor comenzará en el momento de creación de una
determinada obra. El artículo 762 establece el carácter no obligatorio del registro que asegura la protección de las
obras.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 15Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
El artículo 7 prescribe que el plazo de protección
del derecho de autor expirará a los 50 años
contados a partir de la muerte del autor de la obra.
Se autorizarán plazos especiales para las obrascinematográficas, para las obras anónimas o conseudónimo, para las obras fotográficas y las de arteaplicado.El artículo 766 del Código Civil establece el plazo de protección de conformidad co n el artículo 7 del Convenio de Berna.
El artículo 8 otorga al autor de las obras protegidas
el derecho exclusivo de hacer o autorizar la
traducción de sus obras.El apartado c) del párrafo 2 del artículo 751 del Código Civil dispone que el autor tendrá el derecho de autorizar la
traducción de la obra.
El artículo 9 establece, con limitadas excepciones,
que se otorgue a los autores el derecho exclusivo de
autorizar la reproducción de la obra por cualquierprocedimiento o bajo cualquier forma con tal que lareproducción no atente a la explotación normal de
la obra ni cause un perjuicio injustificado a losintereses legítimos del autor.i) El apartado c) del párrafo 2 del artículo 751 del Código Civil prescribe que el autor tendrá el derecho de autorizar la
reproducción de la obra.
ii) El artículo 760 del Código Civil esta blece el principio de la re stricción de los derechos exclusivos del autor de
conformidad con el artículo 9 del Convenio de Berna.
iii) El artículo 761 del Código Civil establece la restricción de los derechos exclusivos del autor en caso de "libre
utilización" de la obra, es decir que no se requiere el consentimiento del autor ni éste recibe remuneración alguna.
Los artículos 10 y 10bis definen algunos casos
autorizados de "libre utilización" de la obra.El artículo 761 del Código Civil define algunos tipos de "lib re utilización" de la obra de conformidad con los artículos 10
y 10bis del Convenio de Berna.
Los artículos 11, 11bis y 11ter establecen que los
autores de obras dramáticas, dramático-musicales y
musicales y sus traducciones gozarán del derechoexclusivo de autorizar la representación pública de
sus obras, incluida la transmisión pública porcualquier medio en todas las formas decomunicación al público.El artículo 751 del Código Civil dispone que el autor tendrá el derecho de autorizar la traducción, representación,
radiodifusión y recitación de las obras . Sin embargo, no queda clara la cuestión de su comunicación al público.
El artículo 12 establece que los autores de obras
artísticas o literarias tendrán el derecho de autorizar
las adaptaciones, los arreglos y otras
transformaciones de sus obras.El apartado c) del párrafo 2 del artículo 752 y el párrafo 1 de l artículo 757 del Código Civil establecen que el autor tiene el
derecho de autorizar la transform ación y/o adaptación de sus obras.
El artículo 13 autoriza a los países de la Unión a
imponer reservas y condiciones al derechoexclusivo de los autores de obras musicales oliterarias grabadas.El artículo 776 establece las condiciones para el uso de grabaci ones de obras musicales y de sus guiones escritos, en caso
de que éstos existan.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 16Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
El artículo 14 establece que los autores de las obras
literarias o artísticas tendrán el derecho exclusivo
de autorizar la adaptación y la reproducción
cinematográfica de sus obras, así como sudistribución, su ejecución pública y su transmisiónal público sin las limitaciones autorizadas en virtuddel párrafo 1) del artículo 13.i) El artículo 757 del Código Civil establece que el autor de una obra literaria o artística tiene el derecho de autorizar la
transformación y/o la adaptación de sus obras. Puede inte rpretarse que esta disposición abarca la transformación de
las obras cinematográficas.
ii) El Código Civil no proporciona una aclaración detallada sobre los derechos del autor de la obra original respecto de
la distribución, represent ación pública y comunicación al público de las obras cinematográficas que se han
transformado a partir de obras originales. Esta cuestió n será especificada en los nuevos reglamentos y en los
reglamentos de modificación y complemento de las normas vi gentes, de conformidad con el Plan de Acción para la
adhesión de Viet Nam a la OMC.
El artículo 14bis especifica que una obra
cinematográfica se protegerá como obra original,
sin perjuicio de cualquier otra obra adaptada oreproducida, y el autor de esta obra cinematográficagozará de los mismos derechos que el autor decualquier otra obra original.i) El párrafo 2 del artículo 745 del Código Civil dispone que se reconocerá como autor a toda persona que transforme o
adapte una obra y gozará de los derechos de autor en su calid ad de autor de estas obras. Se puede interpretar que esta
disposición abarca la transformación de las obras cinematográficas.
ii) El párrafo 1 del artículo 758 del Código Civil establece que los derechos de autor de las obras cinematográficas serán
equivalentes a los del autor de las obras originales.
El artículo 14ter establece un "droit de suite" en
conexión con las reventas de las obras de arte o delos manuscritos.i) El Código Civil no aclara en detalle el significado de "droit de suite" .
ii) Esta cuestión será tratada en el Plan de Acción para la adhesión a la OMC.
El artículo 15 establece que, en caso de litigio, se
presumirá autor de una obra a la persona cuyo
nombre aparezca estampado en la obra en la formausual.i) El Código Civil no especifica la cuestión de la presunción de la propiedad de la obra según lo establecido en el
artículo 15 del Convenio de Berna.
ii) El apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo 751 del Código Civil establece que los autores tienen el derecho de firmar su
obra con su nombre real o con un seudónimo. Esta disposición se puede interpretar de modo que el autor es lapersona cuyo nombre aparece en la obra, salvo prueba en co ntrario. La cuestión de la presunción quedará clara en
los nuevos reglamentos y en los reglamentos de modificación y complemento de las normas existentes, deconformidad con el Plan de Acción para la adhesión a la OMC.
El artículo 16 establece que los ejemplares
falsificados de una obra serán incautados ya sean
importados o producidos en el país.i) El artículo 759 del Código Civil dispone que los autores tendrán el derecho de solicitar al órgano estatal competente
la aplicación de medidas al infractor de sus derechos de autor. Sin embargo, no existen disposiciones relativas a la
incautación de las obras falsificadas.
ii) La medida de comiso se establece en los artículos 11 y 15 de la Ordenanza sobre las sanciones administrativas
(emitida por el Comité Permanente de la Asamblea Nacional en 1995).WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 17Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
El artículo 18 establece que la protección del
derecho de autor se aplicará a todas las obras que al
entrar en vigor el Convenio de Berna no hayan
pasado al dominio público en su país de origen porexpiración de su plazo de protección.i) El artículo 836 del Código Civil establece que las obras se protegerán dentro del país de conformidad con los tratados
internacionales suscritos por Viet Nam o a los cuales haya adherido.
ii) La reglamentación vigente en materia de derecho de auto r en Viet Nam no establece requisitos como la publicación,
difusión, registro o pago de cargas resp ecto de la protección de una obra. Po r consiguiente, el motivo principal para
rehusar la protección es la expi ración del plazo de protección.
iii) Este principio ha sido establecido claramente en el Acue rdo Bilateral sobre Derecho de Autor entre Viet Nam y los
Estados Unidos (firmado en 1997).
El artículo 19 autoriza a los miembros de la Unión aotorgar una protección más amplia que la requerida
por el Convenio.La reglamentación vietnamita no contiene disposiciones que limiten la protección del derecho de autor como establecen
los tratados internacionales.
El artículo 20 del Convenio de Berna autoriza a los
miembros de la Unión a celebrar entre sí arreglos
particulares que confieran derechos más ampliosque los concedidos por el Convenio de Berna.Actualmente Viet Nam no se ha adherido aún a ningún trata do multilateral sobre el derecho de autor, ni siquiera al
Convenio de Berna.
Los programas de ordenador, sean programas
fuente o programas objeto, serán protegidos comoobras literarias en virtud del Convenio de Berna.Las compilaciones de datos, en forma legible por
máquina o en otra forma que constituyan creaciones
de carácter intelectual serán protegidas como tales.Artículo 10 del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC.i) El párrafo 1 del artículo 747 del Código Civil dispone que los programas informáticos sean reconocidos como obras
protegidas por el derecho de autor.
ii) El párrafo 4 del artículo 14 del Decreto del Gobierno Nº 76/CP aclara que los programas informáticos abarcan
también las bases de datos.
iii) El Código Civil no contiene disposiciones que defina n los programas informáticos como obras literarias. Esta
cuestión será precisada en los nuevos reglamentos y en los reglamentos de modificación y complemento de las
normas vigentes, de conformidad con el Plan de Acción para la adhesión a la OMC.
Se conferirá a los autores el derecho dearrendamiento, al menos de los programas deordenador y de las obras audiovisuales, con ciertasexcepciones. Artículo 11.El párrafo 2 del artículo 751 del Código Civil establece que el au tor tendrá el derecho de autorizar el uso de sus obras en
arrendamiento. Se puede interpretar que esta disposición abarca los programas informáticos y las obras cinematográficas.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 18Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Se otorgará un plazo de protección de 50 años
contados a partir de la fecha de la muerte del autor
(párrafo 1 del artículo 7 del Convenio de Berna y
párrafo 1 del artículo 12 del Acuerdo sobre losADPIC) y para las obras cuyo plazo de protecciónse calcule sobre una base distinta de la vida delautor, un plazo de 50 años contados desde el finaldel año civil de la publicación autorizada, o a falta
de tal publicación autorizada dentro de un plazo de
50 años a partir de la realización de la obra, de50 años contados a partir del final del año civil desu realización. Artículo 12i) El artículo 766 del Código Civil y el artículo 14 del Decr eto del Gobierno Nº 76/CP establece que la duración del
plazo de protección deberá guard ar conformidad con el artículo 12 del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC.
ii) En caso de que la duración del plazo de protección se calcule sobre una base di stinta de la vida del autor, el Código
Civil establece que la fecha de publicación se defina como fecha de referencia. No existen disposiciones que tomenla fecha de realización como fecha de referencia. Esta cuestión será precisada en los nuevos reglamentos y en losreglamentos de modificación y complemento de las normas vi gentes, de conformidad con el Plan de Acción para la
adhesión a la OMC.
Las limitaciones o las excepciones impuestas a losderechos exclusivos estarán circunscritas adeterminados casos especiales que no atenten
contra la explotación normal de la obra ni causen
un perjuicio injustificado a los intereses legítimosdel titular de los derechos. Artículo 13i) El artículo 760 del Código Civil establece que los principi os que restringen los derechos exclusivos deberán ser
conformes al artículo 13 del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC.
ii) El artículo 761 del Código Civil dispone la restricción de los derechos exclusivos del autor en caso de "libre
utilización" de la obra, en este caso no se requerirá consentimiento alguno del autor ni cabrá remuneración al
respecto.
iii) Se puede interpretar que los artículos 774, 776 y 778 de l Código Civil establecen las responsabilidades de los
usuarios en casos especiales de pu blicación o difusión de las obras, por ejemplo, ejecuciones, grabaciones,
filmaciones o transmisiones. La disposición es más amplia por comparación con lo estipulado por el Convenio deBerna. Esta cuestión será precisada en los nuevos regl amentos y en los reglamentos de modificación y complemento
de las normas vigentes, de conformidad con el Plan de Acción para la adhesión a la OMC.
Los artistas intérpretes tendrán la facultad de
impedir la fijación de sus interpretaciones oejecuciones no fijadas y la reproducción de talfijación por un plazo de 50 años contados a partirde la fecha en que haya tenido lugar lainterpretación o ejecución, así como las
reproducciones de esa fijación sin autorización y de
impedir la fijación por medios inalámbricos y lacomunicación al público de sus interpretaciones oejecuciones en directo. Párrafos 1 al 5 delartículo 14.i) El artículo 775 del Código Civil establece que los artistas intérpretes o ejecutantes tienen el derecho de autorizar la
fijación y reproducción de sus obras y la distribución y transmisión de sus interpretaciones en directo.
ii) El Código Civil no contiene disposiciones detalladas sobre los derechos de los artistas intérpretes o ejecutantes
relativas a la comunicación al público de sus obras y al plazo de protección de los intérpretes o ejecutantes. Esta
cuestión será precisada en los nuevos reglamentos y en los reglamentos de modificación y complemento de lareglamentación vigente, de conformidad con el Plan de Acción para la adhesión a la OMC.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 19Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Se concederá a los productores de fonogramas el
derecho de autorizar o prohibir la reproducción
directa o indirecta de sus fonogramas por un plazo
de 50 años contados a partir de la fecha de laprimera fijación autorizada y de prohibir elarrendamiento de sus fonogramas una vez que sehayan vendido o distribuido de otra forma.Párrafos 2, 4 y 5 del artículo 14.El artículo 777 del Código Civil establece que por un plazo de 50 años contados a partir de la fecha de difusión de los
fonogramas, los productores tendrán el derecho de autorizar la reproducción y distribución de las copias y gozar del
beneficio resultante del uso de estos fonogramas. Puede interp retarse que esta disposición relativa a los beneficios que
resultan del uso de los fonogramas incluye los arrendamientos . Sin embargo, esta cuestión quedará aclarada en los nuevos
reglamentos y en los reglamentos de modificación y complement o de las normas vigentes, de conformidad con el Plan de
Acción para la adhesión a la OMC.
Se conferirán a los organismos de radiodifusión los
derechos exclusivos por un plazo de 20 años para la
fijación, la reproducción de las fijaciones y laretransmisión por medios inalámbricos de lasemisiones, así como la comunicación al público delas emisiones o se concederá a los titulares delderecho de autor la posibilidad de ejercer tales
derechos sobre la materia objeto de las emisiones.
Párrafos 3 y 5 del artículo 14.El artículo 779 del Código Civil establece que por un plazo de 50 años contados a partir de la fecha de la emisión, los
organismos de radiodifusión tendrán el derecho de autorizar la redifusión, fijación y reproducción de las emisiones.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 20 Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Marcas de fábrica o de comercio
Se otorgará protección de marca de fábrica o de
comercio o servicio a cualquier signo ocombinación de signos que sean capaces dedistinguir los bienes o servicios de una empresa delos de otras empresas. Párrafo 1 del artículo 15.Código Civil ( artículo 785):
Podrá constituir una marca de fábrica o de comercio todo sím bolo que se use para distingu ir productos y servicios del
mismo tipo producidos por distintos fabricantes. Una marca de fábrica o de comercio puede estar constituida por palabras,elementos figurativos o una combinación de ellos, o por un colo r o varios colores. En realidad, cualquier signo visible y
distintivo puede ser protegido como una marca de fábrica o de comercio.
No podrá denegarse el registro de una marca
basándose únicamente en la naturaleza de los
productos o servicios a los que se aplica la marca.Párrafo 4 del artículo 15.El Código Civil y el Decreto Nº 63/CP no definen la natura leza de los productos o servicios como motivo para rehusar el
registro de una marca. En realidad, la naturaleza de los produ ctos o servicios es sólo uno de los motivos que determinan si
los productos o servicios son del mismo tipo.
Las marcas de fábrica o de comercio se publicaránantes de su registro o prontamente después, parapermitir oponerse o pedir la anulación del registro.Párrafo 5 del artículo 15.Decreto No 63/CP (párrafo 2 del artículo 31):
La información publicada en la Gaceta Oficia l de la Propiedad Industrial se refiere a:
a) Las solicitudes de los títulos de protección aceptados oficialmente;b) Los títulos de protección otorgados y registrados, las ma rcas de fábrica o de comercio protegidas en Viet Nam
mediante su registro con arreglo al Acuerdo de Madrid u otros acuerdos internacionales de los que Viet Nam es
Parte;
Decreto Nº 63/CP (artículo 20):Durante el período del examen sustantivo, cualquier tercero tendrá el derecho de dar a conocer su opinión en relación con
el otorgamiento o el rechazo de un título de protección publicado en la Gaceta Oficial de la Propiedad Industrial.
Decreto Nº 63/CP (párrafo 1 del artículo 29):
Cualquier tercero tendrá el derecho de presentar una solicitud a la Oficina Nacional de la Pr opiedad Industrial para anular
la validez de un título de protección basándose en que tal título se ha otorgado en contradicción con las disposiciones de la
ley.
Se conferirá a los titulares de la marca de fábrica ode comercio el derecho exclusivo de impedir el usosin su consentimiento de marcas idénticas osimilares para productos fabricados por terceros que
sean idénticos o similares, siempre que ese uso dé
lugar a probabilidad de confusión. Párrafo 1 delartículo 16.Decreto Nº 63/CP (artículo 53):
Se consideran infracciones de los derechos de la marca de fábrica o de comercio:
El uso de signos idénticos para una marca protegida por un cer tificado de registro de marca de fábrica o de comercio o por
un registro internacional de mercancías; la inclusión de servicios similares o relacionados con los productos y servicios
que figuran en la lista registrada junto con la marca de fábrica o de comercio y/o el uso de signos similares a la marca de
fábrica o de comercio de productos y servicios de la misma clase, similares o relacionados con productos y serviciosincluidos en la lista registrada junto con la marca, si ese us o puede dar lugar a confusión sobre el origen de los productos.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 21Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Marcas de fábrica o de comercio
Se presumirá que existe probabilidad de confusión
si una marca idéntica se usa sin autorización enproductos o servicios idénticos. Párrafo 1 del
artículo 16.Decreto Nº 63/CP (párrafo 1 del artículo 53):
Se considerará infracción del derecho de marca de fábrica o de comercio todo uso de la marca según lo estipulado en el
artículo 805 del Código Civil y en el artículo 34 de este Decret o dentro del plazo de protección , o sin el consentimiento del
titular de la marca.
Se otorgará protección a las marcas notoriamente
conocidas y a las marcas de servicios deconformidad con el artículo 6
bis del Convenio de
París, aun en el caso de que se usen para productosy servicios que no sean similares a aquellos para loscuales una marca de fábrica o de comercio ha sido
registrada a condición de que el uso de esa marca
en relación con esos bienes o servicios indique unaconexión entre dichos bienes o servicios y el titularde la marca registrada y a condición de que seaprobable que ese uso lesione los intereses del titularde la marca registrada. Párrafos 2 y 3 del
artículo 16.Decreto Nº 63/CP (apartado e) del párrafo 1 del artículo 6):
Una de las condiciones para reconocer que un signo es distintivo es que no sea idéntico o confusamente similar al de la
marca de fábrica o de comercio de otra persona, consid erada marca notoriamente conocida de conformidad con el
artículo 6
bis del Convenio de París.
Decreto Nº 63/CP (apartado b) del párrafo 8 del artículo 2):Una marca notoriamente conocida es cualquier marca que se usa continuamente en productos y servicios de reconocida
reputación y que por este motivo es ampliamente conocida.
Decreto Nº 63/CP (párrafo 3 del artículo 8):Los derechos de una marca notoriamente conocida comienzan cuando la autoridad estatal competente la reconoce como
tal.
Decreto Nº 63/CP (párrafo 1 del artículo 10):Los derechos de propiedad industrial de una marca notoriamente conocida están protegidos indefinidamente a partir del
momento en que esta marca se reconoce como marca notoriamen te conocida, según lo dispuesto en la Decisión sobre el
reconocimiento de una marca notoriamente conocida.
Decreto Nº 63/CP (párrafo 1 del artículo 53):Se considerarán infracciones a los derechos de una marca notori amente conocida: el uso de signos idénticos o similares a
los de una marca notoriamente conocida o de signos en forma de traducción o transliteración de la marca para cualesquiera
bienes y servicios, incluidos los de distinta clase, disímiles o relacionados con otros incluidos en la lista de bienes y
servicios de reconocida reputación que llevan la marca notoriam ente conocida, si tal uso se presta a crear confusión sobre
el origen de los productos o causa una impresión equivocada sobre la relación entre la persona que usa estos signos y eltitular de la marca notoriamente conocida.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 22Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Marcas de fábrica o de comercio
Se permitirán sólo excepciones limitadas a los
derechos conferidos por una marca de fábrica o decomercio, por ejemplo el uso leal de términos
descriptivos. Artículo 17De conformidad con el artículo 803 del Código Civil y con el párrafo 2 del artículo 52 del Decreto Nº 63/CP, los
siguientes actos no se considerarán incluidos dentro del alcance de los derechos exclusivos del titular de la marca:
- el uso de una marca de fábrica o de comercio con propósitos no comerciales;
- el uso de productos que el titular de los derechos de propiedad industrial o sus licenciatarios han colocado en el
mercado, incluidos los mercados extranjeros.
Según lo dispuesto en el artículo 24 del Decreto Nº 54/2000/NDD-CP, el uso desleal de términos descriptivos idénticos o
similares a los de la marca de fábrica o de comercio prot egida puede considerarse un acto de competencia desleal: los
actos de competencia desleal relacionados con la propiedad industrial incluyen:
"1. El uso de indicaciones comerciales para inducir a error respecto de la percepción e información relativa a los
organismos, establecimientos y actividades comerciales, productos y/o servicios con el propósito de:
a) Aprovechar las ventajas del prestigio y la reputación de las actividades comerciales o productivas de otras
instituciones comerciales;
b) Perjudicar el prestigio y la reputación de otras instituciones comerciales;c) Crear confusión sobre los orígenes, métodos de producción, propiedades, calidad, cantidad y otras características
de productos y/o servicios; o sobre las condiciones para el suministro de productos y/o servicios que se ofrecen al
consumidor durante la etapa de reconocimiento y se lección de los productos y/o servicios o actividades
comerciales."
Se otorgará un período de protección para el
registro no menor a siete años, renovableindefinidamente. Artículo 18.Decreto Nº 63/CP (apartado e) del párrafo 2 del artículo 9):
Los títulos de protección para las marcas de fábrica o de comerc io son los Certificados de registro de marcas de fábrica o
de comercio cuyo plazo de validez comienza en la fecha de ad judicación de la marca y expira al cumplirse 10 años desde
la fecha oficial de su presentación. Será renovable indefinidamente por períodos consecutivos de 10 años.
Circular Nº 3055/TT-SHCN (párrafo 8 del punto 13 y párrafo 5 del punto 16):
El plazo límite para la adjudicación del Certificado de regist ro de una marca de fábrica o de comercio es de 12 meses
contados a partir de la fecha oficial de presentación.
Sólo se permitirá la anulación por falta de usodespués de un período ininterrumpido de tres años,a menos que existan razones válidas, incluidos losobstáculos impuestos por el Gobierno para su uso.
Párrafo 1 del artículo 19.Decreto Nº 63/C (apartado c) del párrafo 2 del artículo 28):
Se anulará la validez de un Certificado de registro de marca de fábrica o de comercio si su titular no ha utilizado la marca
sin razones válidas durante cinco años consecutivos anteriores a la solicitud de anulación de la validez. En tal caso, la
validez del certificado quedará sin efecto el primer día después de cumplirse el período de cinco años.
No se complicará el uso de una marca de fábrica o
de comercio con exigencias especiales.
Artículo 20.No existen exigencias especiales para el uso de una marca de fábrica o de comercio en las leyes y reglamentos vigentes
sobre la protección de las marcas de fábrica o de comercio en Viet Nam.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 23Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Marcas de fábrica o de comercio
Se podrán establecer las condiciones para las
licencias pero no se permitirán las licenciasobligatorias y el titular de una marca de fábrica o de
comercio registrada tendrá derecho a cederla con o
sin la transferencia de la empresa a que pertenezcala marca. Artículo 21.Decreto Nº 63/CP (artículo 35):
El titular de una marca de fábrica o de comercio tendrá la facu ltad de transferir todo o parte del derecho de uso de la marca
a otra persona física o jurídica o a otras instituciones.
La transferencia del derecho de uso de la marca de fábrica o de comercio se hará efectiva mediante un contrato por escrito
("Acuerdo de autorización del uso de marcas de fábrica"). El acuerdo de autorización del uso de marcas será efectivo sólo
después de su registro en la Oficina Nacional de la Propiedad Industrial.
Decreto Nº 63/CP (artículos 37 y 38):Los derechos del titular sobre la marca de fábrica o de comercio sólo podrán ser heredados por una sola persona física o
jurídica u otra única institución. El sucesor de los derechos de titularidad de la marca deberá cumplir con las exigencias
que se requieren para poder solicitar el título de protección respectivo.
El titular de una marca de fábrica o de comercio no podrá re nunciar a sus derechos si se encuentra sujeto a una licencia
válida, excepto que el titular de la licencia esté de acuerdo sobre la terminación del acuerdo de autorización del uso de la
marca antes de su fecha de expiración.
La transferencia de los derechos de propiedad industrial de la s marcas de fábrica o de comercio no deberá crear confusión
sobre las características o el origen de los productos o servicios para los que se usa la marca.
La transferencia del derecho de titularidad de una marca asociada deberá llevarse a cabo al mismo tiempo que la de todas
las otras marcas asociadas.
La transferencia del derecho de titularidad de una marca notoriamente conocida debe garantizar el mantenimiento del
prestigio y la reputación de los productos y servicios que llevan la marca notoriamente conocida.
En las leyes y reglamentos vigentes de Viet Nam no existen disposiciones que permitan la adjudicación de una licencia no
obligatoria para una marca de fábrica o de comercio.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 24 Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Indicaciones geográficas
Se arbitrarán los medios para impedir un uso que
pueda inducir a error respecto de las indicacionesgeográficas que identifican el lugar al que seatribuye una determinada ca lidad, reputación u otra
característica del producto. Párrafos 1 y 2 del
artículo 22.Decreto Nº 54/2000/ND-CP (artículo 10):
Las indicaciones geográficas imputables son las informaciones relativas a los orígenes geográficos de productos que
cumplen todas las condiciones siguientes:
a) Estar expresadas en una palabra, frase, signo, símbolo o dispositivo que sirve para indicar el país, la región o la
localidad de origen del producto;
b) Figurar en un producto o embalaje del producto o en los documentos de trámite relativos a su compra o venta e
indicar que el producto proviene de un país, región o lo calidad al que se atribuyen características especiales de
calidad, reputación, fama, etc., debidas esencialmente a su origen geográfico.
Decreto Nº 54/2000/ND-CP (artículo 19):Los actos de infracción del derecho de propiedad indu strial sobre las indicaciones geográficas incluyen:
1. El uso de cualesquiera indicaciones comerciales qu e sean idénticas o similares a las indicaciones geográficas
protegidas, y creen una impresión falsa sobre el origen geográfico de los productos;
2. El uso de cualesquiera indicaciones comerciales idéntic as o similares a las indicaciones geográficas protegidas para
productos idénticos, similares o que guardan relación entre sí, sin garantizar la reputación o la fama de los productosque llevan estas indicaciones geográficas, incluso cuando tales indicaciones vayan acompañadas de expresionescomo "método", "tipo", "estilo", "imitación" u otros términos similares.
Decreto Nº 54/2000/ND-CP (artículo 21):
Las personas que son titulares del derecho de uso de indicaciones geográficas estarán facultadas para solicitar a las
instituciones estatales competentes un auto de resarcimiento de daños y perjuicios contra las personas que cometaninfracciones a sus derechos.
En los casos en que el uso de indicaciones geográficas dé lugar a confusión en los consumidores, éstos podrán solicitar a
las instituciones estatales competentes un auto de resarcimie nto de daños y perjuicios contra las personas que hayan
cometido la infracción.
Las infracciones de los derechos de propi edad industrial sobre las indicaciones geográficas se tratarán de acuerdo con los
procedimientos para el trato de las infracciones de otros derechos de propiedad industrial.
Decreto 63/CP (párrafo 1 del artículo 53):Se considera que una persona ha cometido una infracción de los derechos de una denominación de origen cuando no
teniendo el derecho de usarla, comete uno de los actos previstos en el artículo 805 del Código Civil y especificados en el
artículo 34 de este Decreto de ntro del plazo de protección.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 25Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Indicaciones geográficas
Otorgar protección, con ciertas excepciones, a las
denominaciones de origen de vinos y licores,inclusive en caso de que su uso vaya acompañado
por expresiones como "clase", "tipo", "estilo", etc.
Párrafo 1 del artículo 23 y artículo 24.Decreto Nº 54/2000/ND-CP (párrafo 3 del artículo 19):
Las infracciones al derecho de propiedad industrial relativo a las indicaciones ge ográficas incluyen el uso de indicaciones
geográficas para vinos y licores en aquellos productos que no son originarios de los territorios indicados, aun cuando el
verdadero origen de los productos esté indicado o las indi caciones geográficas se usen traducidas o acompañadas por
expresiones como "tipo", "estilo", "clase", "imitación", o términos similares.
Decreto Nº 63/CP (apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo 47):El titular de un certificado de derecho de uso de una denominación de origen tendrá la facultad de solicitar que la
autoridad estatal competente obligue a las personas a cesar toda infracción y a pagar una compensación por el daño
causado por uso ilegal de esta denominación de origen o de signos confusamente similares, incluido el caso en que se
indique el verdadero origen del producto o cuando la denominación de origen haya sido traducida a otra lengua o su usovaya acompañado de expresiones como "clase", "tipo", "imitación", o términos similares.
Se denegará o invalidará el registro de las marcasde fábrica o de comercio que contenganindicaciones geográficas, excepto en los casos enque estas marcas se hayan usado de forma continuadurante un período mínimo de 10 años, o de buena
fe antes del 15 de abril de 1994. Párrafo 3 del
artículo 22.Decreto Nº 63/CP (apartado f) del párrafo 1 del artículo 6):
Uno de los requisitos para reconocer que un signo es distintivo es que no sea idéntico o confusamente similar a las
indicaciones geográficas protegidas (incluidas las denominaciones de origen).WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 26 Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Dibujos y modelos industriales
Se establecerá la protección, con ciertas
excepciones, de los dibujos o modelos industrialescreados independientemente que sean nuevos uoriginales. Párrafo 1 del artículo 25.Código Civil (artículo 784):
Un dibujo o modelo industrial es el aspecto ornamental de un producto constituido por líneas, por elementos de tres
dimensiones y por colores o una combinación de éstos y que representa una novedad a nivel mundial y sirve de modelopara fabricar productos industriales o artesanales.
Se velará por que las prescripciones que hayan decumplirse para asegurar la protección de los dibujos
o modelos textiles no obstaculicen esta protección.
Párrafo 2 del artículo 25Los dibujos o modelos textiles están protegidos del mismo m odo que los demás dibujos o modelos industriales. En las
leyes y reglamentos vigentes no existen disposiciones específi cas para la protección de los dibujos o modelos industriales.
Los requisitos para el establecimiento de estos derechos son razonables.
La duración de la protecci ón será de un mínimo de
10 años.Decreto Nº 63/CP (apartado c) del párrafo 2 del artículo 9):
Los títulos de protección de los dibujos y modelos industriales son las Patentes para Dibujos y Modelos Industriales, con
un plazo de validez que comienza en la fecha de adjudicación de la patente y que expira al cumplirse cinco años contados
a partir de la presentación oficial de la solicitud; es renovable por dos períodos consecutivos de cinco años.
Circular 3055/TT-SHCN (párrafo 8 del artículo 13 y párrafo 5 del artículo 16):El plazo límite para la adjudicación de la s patentes para dibujos y modelos industri ales es de 12 meses contados a partir de
la fecha oficial de presentación de la solicitud.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 27Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Patentes
Se adjudicarán patentes a cualesquiera invenciones,
ya sean productos o procedimientos, en todos loscampos de la tecnología siempre que sean nuevas,entrañen una actividad inve ntiva y sean susceptibles
de aplicación industrial. Quedarán excluidos
las plantas y los animales, excepto los
microorganismos y los procedimientos nobiológicos o microbiológicos. También sepermitirán excepciones por motivos de ordenpúblico y moral. Artículo 27Código Civil (artículo 782):
Una invención es una idea técnica que se distingue por ser nueva a nivel mundial para el estado actual del desarrollo
tecnológico, no deberá ser obvia y será aplicab le en diversas esferas sociales y económicas.
Decreto Nº 63/CP (párrafos 1, 2 y 3 del artículo 4):Existen criterios específicos para determinar el carácter inno vador, la actividad inventiva y la aplicabilidad de la solución
técnica que entraña la invención.
Decreto Nº 63/CP (párrafo 4 del artículo 4):Están excluidos de la patentabilidad:
Las ideas, principios y descubrimientos científicos;
Los métodos y sistemas para la organización y la gestión de la economía;Los métodos y sistemas de educación, enseñanza y formación;
Los métodos para el entrenamiento de animales;
Los sistemas relacionados con la lingüística, la inform ación, las clasificaciones y la compilación de documentos;
Los dibujos y planos para las obras de construcción, los proyectos de desarrollo y planificación regional;
Las soluciones relacionadas sólo con el aspecto de lo s productos y que sean únicamente de naturaleza estética;
Los signos convencionales, calendarios, normas, reglamentos y símbolos;
Los programas de ordenador, los esquemas de trazado de circuitos integrados, los modelos matemáticos, los gráficos
y similares;Las obtenciones animales o vegetales;Los métodos para la prevención, el diagnóstico o el tratamiento de enfermedades humanas y animales;Los procedimientos biológicos esenciales para la producción de plantas o animales distintos de los procedimientos demicrobiología.
Código Civil (artículo 787):
No se protegerán las cuestiones relativas a la propiedad indust rial contrarias al interés so cial, al orden público y a los
principios sociales.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 28Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Patentes
Se conferirá a los titulares de las patentes el
derecho de impedir que terceros realicen actos de:fabricación, uso, oferta para la venta, venta o
importación del producto patentado o realicen el
acto de utilización del procedimiento patentado ylos actos de: uso, oferta para la venta, venta oimportación del producto obtenido directamente pormedio de dicho procedimiento. Párrafo 1 del
artículo 28.Decreto 63/CP (artículo 53):
Según lo dispuesto en el artículo 805 del Código Civil y en el artículo 34 de este Decreto, si una persona distinta del titular
de la patente realiza uno de los actos mencionados en el artículo 805 del Código Civil que se especifican en el artículo 34
del Decreto, dentro del plazo de la protección y sin el consentimiento del titular o sin el derecho del uso previo, conforme
a lo dispuesto en el artículo 50 del Decreto, se considerará qu e se ha cometido una infracción del derecho de patente, salvo
que se trate de una de las excepciones mencionadas en los artículos 51 y 52 del mismo Decreto. Los actos de uso de lainvención están previstos en el artículo 34 del Decreto Nº 63/CP, a saber:
fabricación de un producto protegido;
aplicación de un pro cedimiento protegido;
explotación de un producto protegido;puesta en circulación, publicidad, oferta o almacenamiento para la venta de un producto protegido o de un producto
fabricado mediante un procedimiento protegido;
importación de un producto protegido o de un producto fabricado mediante un procedimiento protegido.
Se otorgará a los titulares de la patente el derecho
de ceder sus derechos o de transferirlos mediantesucesión y de concertar contratos de licencia.
Párrafo 2 del artículo 28.Código Civil (párrafo 2 del artículo 796):
La titularidad de las invenciones puede ser heredada o transferida a otras personas.Código Civil (apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo 796):
Los titulares de las invenciones podrán transferir el derecho de usar la invención patentada a otras personas.
Se exigirá a los solicitantes que divulguen la
invención para que las personas capacitadas en latécnica de que se trate puedan llevar a efecto lainvención, las cuales podrán exigir que elsolicitante indique la mejor manera de llevarla aefecto y la información sobre las aplicaciones
correspondientes del extranjero. Artículo 29Circular 3055/TT-SHCN (párrafo 3 del punto 6):
La descripción deberá divulgar completamente la naturaleza de la solución técnica para la que se solicita la protección.
Además, facilitará una información tal que, basándose en ella, otra persona de capacidad normal en la esfera técnicapertinente pueda aplicarla.
La descripción deberá aclarar la naturaleza innovadora, la actividad inventiva y la aplicabilidad de la solución técnica para
la cual se solicita la protección.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 29Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Patentes
Se garantizará que cualesquiera excepciones a los
derechos exclusivos de patente no atenteninjustificadamente contra su explotación normal y
no causen un perjuicio injustificado a los derechos
legítimos del titular de la patente, teniendo encuenta los intereses legítimos de terceros.Artículo 30.Código Civil (artículo 801) y Decreto 63/CP (artículo 50):
Si antes de la fecha de presentación de una solicitud de título de protección para una invención, una persona física o
jurídica u otra institución ha usado la invención independientemente de su titular, esa persona física o jurídica tiene el
derecho de seguir usándola en el alcance y volumen de su uso anterior a la presentación de la solicitud (derecho de
prioridad del usuario). El o la propietaria del título de protección no ejercerá su derecho de iniciar una acción judicial oejercer un derecho provisional contra tal persona física o jurídica u otra institución después de la adjudicación del título deprotección, siempre y cuando el alcance o el volumen de su uso no haya aumentado en comparación con el período
anterior a la fecha de presentación de la solicitud.
Si después de la fecha de presentación de una solicitud de patente, esta persona física o jurídica u otra institución
aumentan el alcance o el volumen del uso de la invención resp ecto del período anterior a esta fecha, este aumento no será
protegido por el derecho de prioridad del usuario.
El derecho de prioridad del usuario no podrá ser transferido a otras personas, salvo que se transfiera con la empresa que lo
ha usado previamente.
De conformidad con el artículo 803 del Código Civil y el párrafo 1 del artículo 52 del decreto 63/CP, no se considerarán
infracciones de patentes los siguientes actos:
- el uso con propósitos no comerciales;- el uso de productos que el titular de la patente o de la licencia, o el titular no voluntario de la licencia o la
persona habilitada para el uso del derecho de prioridad ha colocado en el mercado, incluidos los mercadosextranjeros;
- el uso que contribuya a mantener en funcionamiento lo s medios de transporte extranjeros que entran o se
hallen en el territorio de Viet Nam.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 30Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Patentes
Las licencias obligatorias sólo podrán ser
adjudicadas cuando se cumplan las condiciones quese enumeran: el aviso, la remuneración, las
restricciones sobre su uso y la transferencia de la
licencia, etc. Artículo 31Decreto 63/CP (párrafo 2 del artículo 51):
Se otorgará una licencia no voluntaria únicamente en los casos que se mencionan en el artículo 802 del Código Civil
(cuando el titular no esté en condiciones de usar la invención o bien cuando su uso no cumpla con las necesidades dedesarrollo socioeconómico de su país injustificadamente; cuando el titular rechace la concesión de la licencia en lasnegociaciones pese a los esfuerzos de la persona que necesita su uso, incluido el ofrecimiento de regalías razonables;
cuando su uso sea necesario para cuestiones de defensa naci onal, seguridad nacional, prev ención de enfermedades y
tratamiento de personas u otras necesidades sociales urgentes).
Una licencia no voluntaria sólo se otorgará cuando se cumplan cu atro años contados a partir de la fecha de presentación de
la solicitud y tres años contados a partir de la fecha de emisión del título de protección.
La persona obligada a otorgar una licencia no voluntaria tendrá el derecho de solicitar la anulación de la misma cuando
desaparezcan las condiciones que llevaron a la concesión y no exista la probabilidad de que vuelvan a aparecer, siempre y
cuando esta anulación no sea perjudicial para el titular de la licencia.
Decreto 63/CP (párrafo 3 del artículo 51):El Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología y Medio Ambiente es el órgano estatal competente que posee la facultad de examinar
las solicitudes de permiso para el uso de una invención y de emitir una decisión que exija al titular el otorgamiento de una
licencia no voluntaria.
Decreto 63/CP (párrafo 6 del artículo 51):En la decisión que exige el otorgamiento de una licencia no voluntaria, el Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología y Medio
Ambiente fijará los términos de la licencia de acuerdo con las siguientes disposiciones:
a) Las licencias no voluntarias no serán exclusivas;
b) El alcance y la duración de una licencia no voluntaria se limitará al propósito para el cual fue concedida;
c) La persona a la que se ha concedido la licencia no voluntaria no transferirá el derecho de uso de la
invención a otras personas, excepto a la empresa que disfruta su uso, y no podrá otorgar a su vez una
sublicencia.
d) La persona a la que se ha otorgado una licencia no voluntaria ofrecerá a quien la otorga una remuneración
en dinero que corresponda al valor económico del derecho de uso de la invención y de la licencia o su
equivalente en regalías que corresponda a licencias contractuales del mismo alcance y plazo.
La decisión que otorga la licencia no voluntaria se publicar á en la Gaceta Oficial de la Propiedad Industrial dentro del
plazo de un mes a partir de la fecha de emisión.
Decreto 63/CP (párrafo 7 del artículo 51):Dentro del plazo de un mes contado a partir de la fecha en que el Ministro de Ciencia, Tecnología y Medio Ambiente
emite la Decisión que ordena la concesión de la licencia no vo luntaria, el titular del derecho de propiedad industrial de la
totalidad de la invención otorgará una licencia en las condiciones establecidas en la decisión.
Decreto 63/CP (párrafo 8 del artículo 51):La persona que está obligada a otorgar una licencia no volunt aria tiene el derecho de apelar la decisión relativa a la
licencia ante el Ministerio de Cien cia, Tecnología y Medio Ambiente.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 31Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Patentes
Se dispondrá la posibilidad de realizar una revisión
judicial de toda deci sión de revocación o de
declaración de caducidad de una patente.
Artículo 32.Decreto Nº 63/CP (párrafo 4 del artículo 27, artículos 28 y 29):
Las decisiones de la Oficina Nacional de la Propiedad Industrial relativas a la terminación o anulación de la validez de una
patente pueden ser llevadas ante los tribunales administrativos o bien apeladas ante el Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología y
Medio Ambiente, a elección del apelante.
El título de protección se otorgará por un plazo
mínimo de 20 años contados a partir de la fecha depresentación de la solicitud. Artículo 33.Decreto Nº 63/CP (apartado a) del párrafo 1 del artículo 9):
Los títulos de protección de las invenciones son las patentes de invención, que tienen un plazo de validez que comienza en
la fecha de la concesión de la patente y que expira al cumplirse 20 años contados a partir de la fecha oficial depresentación de la solicitud.
En los procedimientos civiles por infracción de losderechos de patente se hará recaer la carga de laprueba sobre el supuesto infractor en los casos en
que el producto obtenido por el procedimiento
patentado sea nuevo o cuando exista unaprobabilidad sustancial de que el producto idénticoha sido fabricado mediante el procedimientopatentado y el titular de la patente no puedaestablecer mediante esfuerzos razonables cuál ha
sido el procedimiento efectivamente utilizado.
Artículo 34.De conformidad con las leyes y reglamentos vigentes en materia de procedimientos civiles en Viet Nam, la carga de la
prueba recae en el demandante y no en el demandado.
Las disposiciones que dan cumplimiento al artículo 34 del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC figurarán en una Circular del
Tribunal Popular Supremo y del Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología y Medio Ambiente para orientar los dictámenes de los
casos de propiedad industrial. La promulgación de esta Circular está prevista para finales de 2002.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 32 Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Esquemas de trazado (topografías) de los circuitos integrados
Se otorgará protección a los esquemas de trazado
(topografías) de los circuitos integrados originalesregistrados o comercializados en cualquier parte delmundo. Artículos 3, 4, 5 y 7 del Tratado deWashington incorporados en el artículo 35 del
Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC.No existen disposiciones en Viet Nam sobre la protección de los esquemas de trazado (topografías) de los circuitos
integrados, según lo dispuesto en los artículos 35 a 38 del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC.
Se está terminando la elaboración de un proyecto de Decreto sobre la protección de los esquemas de trazado (topografías)
de los circuitos integrados semiconductores que deberá ser sometido a consideración del Gobierno en diciembre de 2001.
Se considerarán ilícitos ciertos actos dereproducción, importación, venta o distribución deotro modo con fines comerciales, a excepción deciertos casos, de un esquema de trazado protegido,de un circuito integrado en el que esté incorporadoun esquema de trazado protegido o un artículo que
incorpore un esquema de trazado de esa índole.
Artículo 6 del Tratado de Washington y artículo 36del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC.Aún no existen disposiciones al respecto.
Las disposiciones que dan cumplimiento al artículo 6 del Tratado de Washington se han incorporado en el Proyecto de
Decreto supra .
Se otorgará tal prot ección por un período de
10 años contados desde la fecha de presentación deuna solicitud de registro o de la primera explotacióncomercial. Artículo 38.Aún no existen disposiciones al respecto.
Las disposiciones que dan cumplimiento al artículo 38 del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC están incluidas en el Proyecto de
Decreto supra .WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 33Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Información no divulgada
Se protegerá la información no divulgada que sea
secreta (es decir, que no sea conocida en general nifácilmente accesible); que tenga un valor comercialpor ser secreta; y que haya sido objeto de medidasrazonables para mantenerla secreta. Párrafo 2 del
artículo 39.Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (artículo 6):
Los secretos comerciales a los que se concede protección so n resultado de las inversiones en forma de información que
cumplen con las siguientes condiciones:
a) no ser de conocimiento general;b) ser aplicables a las actividades comerciales y que su uso genere ventajas a su titular respecto de otras personas que no
poseen o usan esta información;
c) que su titular mantenga esta información secreta medi ante las medidas necesarias para garantizar que no sea
divulgada ni fácilmente accesible.
Los titulares de un derecho de propiedad industrial relativo al secreto comercial estarán facultados para solicitar a los
órganos estatales competentes un mandamiento judicial por da ños contra las personas que cometen actos de infracción de
sus derechos.
Se protegerán los datos que se presenten para
obtener la aprobación de comercializar productos
farmacéuticos o productos químicos agrícolas queutilizan nuevas entidades químicas. Párrafo 3 delartículo 39.Decreto 54/2000/ND-CP (párrafo 4 del artículo 18):
Se considerarán infracciones del derecho de propiedad indust rial relativo al secreto comercial y serán sancionados como
tales los siguientes actos: tener acceso y obtener la info rmación de un secreto comercial que otras personas hayan
presentado para su aprobación con el fin de comercializar productos, en especial los productos farmacéuticos y los
productos químicos agrícolas, mediante actos contrarios a las medidas adoptadas por los órganos administrativos ydestinadas a mantener el secreto; usar esa información con fines comerciales, incluida la obtención de aprobación para
comercializar productos.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 34 Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Observancia
- Obligaciones generales
Se adoptarán medidas eficaces contra cualquier
acción infractora de los derechos de propiedadintelectual evitando la creación de obstáculos alcomercio legítimo y su abuso. Párrafo 1 delartículo 41.Además de las disposiciones jurídicas generales en materia de procedimientos civiles, penales y administrativos y control
de aduanas, Viet Nam ha promulgado disposiciones especiales en materia de procedimientos penales y administrativos ysanciones que se aplican a las infracciones de los derechos de propiedad intelectual que están incorporadas en los
siguientes instrumentos jurídicos:
- Código Penal de 1999 (artículo 131: Delito de infracción de l derecho de autor; artículo 156: Delito de fabricación y
comercialización de mercancías falsificadas; artículo 162: Delito de engaño a los consumidores; artículo 168:
Delito de falsa publicidad; artículo 171: Delito de infracción del derecho de propiedad industrial);
- Decreto del Gobierno Nº 12/1999/ND-CP de 6 de marzo de 1999 relativo a las medidas administrativas contra las
violaciones en la esfera de la propiedad industrial (denominado más adelante Decreto Nº 12/1999/ND-CP);
- Circular Nº 825/2000/TT-BKHCNMT del Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología y Medio Ambiente del 3 de mayo
de 2000 que rige la aplicación del mencionado Decreto Nº 12/1999/ND-CP, m odificado por Circular Nº 49/2001/TT-
BKHCNMT de 14 de setiembre de 2001 (denominada más adelante Circular Nº 825/2000/TT-BKHCNMT).
- Decreto Nº 31/2001/ND-CP de 26 de junio de 2001 sobre los procedimientos administrativos en el sector de la
cultura y la información.
- Las leyes y reglamentos vigentes ya cumplen básicamente los requisitos del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC.
- Actualmente, Viet Nam está aplicando el plan de pr omulgación de leyes y reglamentos especiales sobre
procedimientos civiles y medidas en frontera en materia de propiedad intelectual, de conformidad con los requisitos
del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC:
- Circulares conjuntas del Tribunal Popular Supremo, el Ins tituto Fiscal Popular Supremo y el Ministerio de Ciencia,
Tecnología y Medio Ambiente/ Ministerio de Cultura e Información, para la orientación de los dictámenes de casosrelativos a los derechos de propiedad industrial/derechos de autor (denominadas más adelante Circulares conjuntas
para orientar los dictámenes de los casos relativos a la propiedad intelectual). Calendario: promulgación prevista
para finales de 2002.
- Circulares conjuntas del Departamento General de Aduanas y del Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología y Medio
Ambiente/Ministerio de Cultura e Información sobre las me didas en frontera (denominadas más adelante Circulares
conjuntas sobre las medidas en frontera). Calendario: promulgación prevista para finales de 2002.
Se aplicarán procedimient os justos y equitativos
relativos a la observancia que no seaninnecesariamente complicados o gravosos nicomporten plazos injustificados o retrasos
indebidos. Párrafo 2 del artículo 41.Los procedimientos vigentes relativos a la observancia son justos, equitativos y no son innecesariamente complicados o
gravosos; no existen disposiciones que establezcan plazos injustificados ni retrasos indebidos.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 35Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Observancia
Se adoptarán decisiones fundamentadas en las
pruebas presentadas por las partes durante elprocedimiento, de preferencia por escrito y
razonadas. Párrafo 3 del artículo 41.Ordenanza sobre los procedimientos para los dictámenes de casos civiles de 1989:
Es necesario llevar un registro de los argumentos objeto de deba te y de las decisiones de la Junta de Instrucción sobre los
fundamentos del caso. En las decisiones de la Junta deberán figurar todos los contenidos, detalles, pruebas, etc. del caso,
las bases legales y las decisiones del Trib unal (artículo 53); inmediatamente después de la sesión se distribuirán a las
partes los extractos de la sentencia o de la decisión del Trib unal sobre el caso y las copias de la sentencia o de la decisión
les serán enviadas antes de los 15 días contados a partir de la fecha del procedimiento judicial (artículo 57); las partes osus allegados tendrán el derecho de expresar sus opiniones sobre la evaluación de las pruebas, de responder a losargumentos de otras personas y de proponer la solución para el caso (artículo 51).
Las disposiciones que cumplen con los requisitos del Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC estarán previstas en las Circulares para
orientar los dictámenes sobre los casos relativos a la propiedad intelectual (2002).
Se dará la oportunidad de apelar las decisionesadministrativas finales ante los órganos judiciales,al menos en lo que respecta a los aspectos jurídicosde las decisiones judiciales iniciales sobre el fondodel caso. Párrafo 4 del artículo 41.La Ordenanza sobre los procedimientos para orientar los dictámenes de casos civiles, el Código de Procedimientos Penales
y la Ordenanza sobre los dictámenes de casos administrativos contienen disposiciones relativas a los niveles decompetencia de la instancia de apelación y otras disposiciones que tratan al menos sobre los aspectos legales de la
sentencia inicial y las decisiones judiciales. En especial, ex isten disposiciones relativas a los procedimientos de apelación
de las sentencias iniciales y de las decisiones judiciales. El proyecto de Código de Procedimientos Civiles establece los
principios para los procedimientos judiciales a dos niveles que se aplican a los casos civiles.
De conformidad con la Ordenanza sobre los dictámenes de cas os administrativos y la Ley de Apelación y Denuncia, las
decisiones administrativas sobre los dictámenes relativos a las infracciones de los derechos de propiedad intelectual
podrán ser apeladas por se gunda vez ante una autoridad administrativa superior o ante el Tribunal Administrativo, a
elección del demandante.WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 36Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Observancia
- Procedimientos y recursos civiles y
administrativos
Se facilitarán los procedimientos que permitan a losdemandantes iniciar acciones judiciales por
infracción; los demandados deberán ser
notificados; ambas partes estarán facultadas parapresentar las pruebas que sustenten sus alegaciones;la información confidencial presentada seráprotegida. Artículo 42.Código Civil (apartado b) del párrafo 1 del artículo 762 y apartado c) del párrafo 1 del artículo 796):
Los titulares de los derechos de propiedad intelectual te ndrán el derecho de solicitar que las autoridades estatales
competentes obliguen a las personas que cometen actos de infr acción de sus derechos a cesar esos actos y a compensar los
daños causados; las partes poseen los mismos derechos de presentar pruebas y de proponer cuestiones pertinentes para sudebate (párrafo 2 del artículo 20 de la Ordenanza sobre los pr ocedimientos para los dictámenes de casos civiles de 1989).
Los procedimientos para sancionar las infracciones de los derechos de propiedad intelectual están previstos en los
siguientes instrumentos jurídicos:
- Ordenanza sobre los procedimientos para los dictámenes de casos civiles;
- Decreto Nº 12/1999/ND-CP;
- Circular Nº 825/2000/TT-BKHCNMT;- Decreto Nº 31/2001/ND-CP de 26 de junio de 2001 sobre los procedimientos administrativos en el sector
de la cultura y la información.
Las disposiciones relativas a las medidas para la protección de la información confidencial estarán incluidas en las
circulares conjuntas para orientar los dictámenes de casos relativos a los derechos de propiedad intelectual (2002).
Se facultará a las autoridades judiciales para que
ordenen la presentación de pruebas suficientes para
sustentar las alegaciones de la parte contraria encaso de que una de las partes no haya podidoobtener esta prueba con el consentimiento de la otraparte. Párrafo 1 del artículo 43.La Ordenanza de 1989 sobre los procedimientos para orientar los dictámenes de casos civiles (párrafo 7 del artículo 41)
contiene disposiciones generales relativas a la competencia de los Tribunales para obligar a las partes a realizar ciertos
actos.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre las autoridades judiciales para obligar a las partes a presentar las pruebas necesarias
serán promulgadas en las circulares conjuntas para orientar los dictámenes de casos relativos a los derechos de propiedadintelectual (2002).
Se facultará a las autoridades judiciales a prohibir aldemandado, salvo si se trata del Gobierno, que
cometa actos de infracción de los derechos de
propiedad intelectual. Párrafo 1 del artículo 44.El Código Civil de 1995 (inciso c del párrafo 1 del artícul o 796) y el Decreto del Gobierno 63/CP de 24 de octubre
de 1996 sobre las disposiciones detalladas de los reglamentos relativos a la propiedad industrial (artículo 36), modificado
por Decreto 06/2001/ND-CP de 1º de febrero de 2001 y el Decreto del Gobierno 76/CP (artículo 33) disponen que los
titulares de los derechos de propiedad industrial y de los der echos de autor tendrán el derecho de solicitar a las autoridades
estatales competentes, incluidos los Tribunales, que obliguen a la persona que comete actos de infracción a cesar estos
actos y a compensar los daños causados.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre los procedimientos de observa ncia del derecho de solicitar la suspensión respecto de las
mercancías en infracción serán promulgadas en circulares co njuntas para la orientación de los dictámenes de los casos
relativos a los derechos de propiedad intelectual (2002).WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 37Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Observancia
Se facultará a las autoridades judiciales para que
exijan el pago de una indemnización pecuniariaadecuada en compensación por los daños causados
por la infracción. Párrafo 1 del artículo 45.El Código Civil de 1995 (artículo 759 y apartado c) del párrafo 1 del artículo 796) y el Decreto de Gobierno 63/CP de
24 de octubre de 1996 sobre la reglamentación detallada relativa a la propiedad industrial (artículo 36), modificado porDecreto 06/2001/ND-CP de 1º de febrer o de 2001, y el Decreto del Gobierno 76/CP (artículo 33) establece que los
titulares del derecho de autor y de los derechos de propie dad industrial podrán solicitar a las autoridades estatales
competentes, incluido el tribunal, que obliguen a la persona que ha cometido la infracción a cesar estos actos y ofrecer un
resarcimiento por los daños causados.
El artículo 310 del Código Civil de 1995 establece el compromi so de ofrecer un resarcimiento por los daños mentales y
materiales causados. El compromiso de ofrecer una compen sación por los daños materiales causados hace referencia a la
compensación por las pérdidas materiales reales de la víct ima. La responsabilidad de ofrecer un resarcimiento por daños
mentales no sólo incluye el compromiso de cesar los actos de infracción sino también el de pagar un resarcimientopecuniario a la víctima.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre los procedimientos de obs ervancia relativos al derecho de solicitar la suspensión
respecto de las mercancías en infracción serán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas para la orientación de los dictámenes
de los casos relativos a los derechos de propiedad intelectual (2002).
Se facultará a las autoridades judiciales para queordenen el pago de los gastos originados por la
inobservancia y por la recuperación de los
beneficios y/o por las indemnizaciones legales porlos daños ocasionados a los titulares del derecho.Párrafo 2 del artículo 45.Los artículos 310 y 615 del Código Civil de 1995 establecen la re sponsabilidad de ofrecer una compensación por los daños
mentales y materiales causados. El compromiso de ofrecer una compensación por los daños materiales causados hace
referencia a la compensación por las pérdidas materiales reales de la víctima. La responsabilidad de ofrecer un
resarcimiento por daños mentales no sólo incluye el compromiso de cesar los actos de infracción sino también el de pagar
un resarcimiento pecuniario a la víctima.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre los procedimientos de observa ncia del derecho de solicitar la suspensión respecto de las
mercancías en infracción serán promulgadas en circulares co njuntas para la orientación de los dictámenes de los casos
relativos a los derechos de propiedad intelectual (2002).
Se autorizará la aplicación de otros recursos,incluida la incautación de mercancías infractoras y
de los materiales e instrumentos que se hayanutilizado predominantemente para la producción delos bienes infractores. Artículo 46.Aún no existen disposiciones al respecto.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre el uso de otros recursos en los procedimientos judiciales serán promulgadas en
circulares conjuntas para orientar los dictámenes de los casos relativos a los derechos de propiedad intelectual (2002).
Se autorizará la indemnización del demandado,incluidos los honorarios de los abogados en caso deabuso del demandante. Párrafo 1 del artículo 48.Aún no existen disposiciones al respecto.
Las disposiciones detalladas que facultan a las autoridade s judiciales a exigir que el demandante ofrezca una
compensación al demandado por los daños causados en caso de que el demandante haya abusado del procedimiento de
observancia serán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas para orientar los dictámenes de casos relativos a los derechos de
propiedad intelectual (2002).WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 38Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Observancia
Se eximirá a las autoridades y a los funcionarios
públicos de las responsabilidades a que den lugarlas medidas correctivas adecuadas sólo en el caso
de actuaciones llevadas a cabo o proyectadas de
buena fe para la administración de dichas leyes.Párrafo 2 del artículo 48.No existen disposiciones para eximir a las autoridades y funcionarios públicos de sus responsabilidades legales en caso de
que sus actos de aplicación se lleven a cabo de mala fe.
La disposición pertinente será promulgada en los nuev os reglamentos o en los reglamentos de modificación y
complemento a las normas vigentes de conformidad con el Plan de Acción para la adhesión a la OMC.
Se garantizará que los recursos administrativos sean
acordes a los principios mencionados en losartículos precedentes. Artículo 49.El Decreto del Gobierno Nº 12/1999/ND-CP de 6 de marzo de 1999 sobre las medidas administrativas adoptadas contra
las violaciones en la esfera de la propiedad industrial y la Circular Nº 825/2000/TT BKHCNMT de 3 de mayo de 2000 delMinisterio de Ciencia, Tecnología y Medio Ambiente que es tablece las directrices para la aplicación de este Decreto,
prevén los recursos aplicables a las infracciones de los derechos de propiedad industrial.
El Decreto Nº 31/2001/ND-CP de 26 de junio de 2001 dispone los recursos administrativos que se aplican en caso de
infracción del derecho de autor.
- Medidas provisionales
Se facultará a las autoridades judiciales paraordenar la adopción de medidas de restriccióntemporales y precautorias provisionales a fin deimpedir las infracciones y preservar las pruebas.Párrafo 1 del artículo 50.La Ordenanza sobre los procedimientos para orientar los di ctámenes de casos civiles de 1989 (artículo 41) establece que el
tribunal competente estará facultado para imponer medidas de restricción provisionales a fin de "prohibir u obligar a unade las partes que cometa ciertos actos" a los efectos de resolver la solicitud urgente de una de las partes o bien de preservar
las pruebas.
El artículo 20 de la Ordenanza establece que las partes interesa das estarán en igualdad de condiciones para la presentación
de las pruebas que protegen sus intereses, deberán ser inform adas de las pruebas presentadas por la otra parte y serán
responsables de presentar sus pruebas y cumplir con los requisitos del tribunal.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre las medidas provisionales serán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas para orientar los
dictámenes de casos relativos a los derechos de propiedad intelectual (2002).
Se facultará a las autoridades judiciales para exigira la parte demandante que indemnice al demandadopor los perjuicios causados si la decisión sobre elfondo concluye que las medidas precautorias
provisionales son injustificadas. Párrafo 3 del
artículo 50.Con respecto al derecho de autor y derechos conexos, la Ordenanza de 1989 sobre los procedimientos para los dictámenes
de casos civiles (artículo 20) establece que las partes interesadas estarán en igualdad de condiciones para presentar laspruebas que protegen sus intereses, deberán ser informadas de las pruebas presentadas por la otra parte y serán
responsables de presentar sus pruebas y de cumplir las prescripciones del tribunal.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre la obligación del demandante de indemnizar al demandado por los perjuicios causados
en caso de que las medidas provisionales sea injustificadas se rán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas para orientar los
dictámenes de los casos relativos a los derechos de propiedad intelectual (2002).
Se notificará sin demora al demandante la adopciónde medidas provisionales, a fin de que inicie lasformalidades correspondientes, etc. Párrafo 4 delartículo 50.La Ordenanza de 1989 sobre los procedimientos para los dictámenes de los casos civiles prevé reglamentos relativos a la
notificación (artículos 41 y 42).WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 39Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Observancia
- Medidas en frontera
El titular del derecho podrá solicitar que se
suspenda el despacho de aduana de las mercancíasque puedan ser sospechosas de llevar una marca
falsificada o de ser mercancías pirata que lesionan
el derecho de autor. Los miembros estaránautorizados a extender esta protección a los titularesde otros derechos de propiedad intelectual.Artículo 51.El Código Civil de 1995 (apartado c) del párrafo 1 del artíc ulo 796), el Decreto del Gobierno 63/CP de 24 de octubre
de 1996 sobre las especificaciones de los reglamentos relativos a la propiedad industrial (artículo 36), la Ley de Aduanas
(artículo 57) prevé la incautación provisional de las mercan cías importadas; los titulares del derecho estarán facultados
para solicitar que las autoridades estatales competentes, incluidas las oficinas de aduana, obliguen al infractor a cesar sus
actos, incluida la importación de mercancías importadas.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre la aplicación de estos proc edimientos serán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas sobre
las medidas en frontera (2002).
Se exigirá a los titulares que inicien unprocedimiento para la adopción de medidas en
frontera y que presenten las pruebas de que existe
presunción de infracción y una descripciónsuficientemente detallada de las mercancías, demodo que puedan ser reconocidas por lasautoridades de aduanas. El titular deberá sernotificado dentro de un plazo razonable si se toman
medidas a su respecto. Artículo 52.El artículo 58 de la Ley de Aduanas establece que para solicitar la suspensión temporal de los procedimientos de despacho
de aduana, los titulares del derecho de propiedad intelectual deberán presentar una solicitud, las pruebas de sus derechos
legítimos de propiedad intelectual y las pruebas de la infracción de sus derechos.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre la aplicación de estos proc edimientos serán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas sobre
las medidas en frontera (2002).
Se facultará a las autoridades para que exijan altitular que solicita las medidas en frontera eldepósito de una fianza o garantía suficiente paraproteger al demandado e impedir abusos.Artículo 53.El párrafo 2 del artículo 58 de la Ley de Aduanas establ ece que para solicitar una suspensión temporal del despacho de
aduana, los titulares del derecho de propiedad intelectual de ben depositar un determinado monto o garantía para garantizar
la compensación por daños y perjuicios que pudiera causar un a solicitud infundada de suspensión del despacho de aduana,
conforme a las leyes y reglamentos existentes.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre la aplicación de estos proc edimientos serán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas sobre
medidas en frontera (2002).
Se notificará prontamente al titular del derecho y alimportador la adopción de medidas en virtud del
artículo 51. Artículo 54.Aún no existen disposiciones detalladas al respecto.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre la aplicación de estos proc edimientos serán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas sobre
las medidas en frontera (2002).WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 40Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Observancia
Se notificará a las autoridades aduaneras, dentro de
un plazo máximo de 20 días contados a partir de larecepción del aviso, que se han iniciado los
procedimientos sobre el fondo o que la suspensión
será revocada. Artículo 55.Ordenanza sobre los procedimientos para los dictámenes re lativos a infracciones administrativas de 1995 (artículo 41):
El plazo límite para la suspensión del despacho de mercancías será de 15 días.Decreto del Gobierno Nº 16/CP para lo s dictámenes de infracciones administra tivas en aduanas de 20 de marzo de 1996
(artículo 20):
El plazo límite se podrá extender por 15 días adicionales para los casos complicados o relacionados con el extranjero. Las
oficinas de aduana son las autoridades competentes para tomar decisiones sobre el fondo respecto de los casos, conforme alos procedimientos administrativos.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre la aplicación de estos proc edimientos serán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas sobre
las medidas en frontera (2002).
Se facultará a las autoridades para que exijan que eltitular del derecho ofrezca una compensación al
importador o al propietario de las mercancíassujetas a las medidas en frontera por la retencióninfundada de éstas o si los procedimientos quellevan a una decisión sobre el fondo no hancomenzado dentro del plazo asignado. Artículo 56.Ordenanza sobre los procedimientos para los dictám enes relativos a infracciones administrativas de 1995:
Con arreglo a los procedimientos administrativos, las oficinas de aduana están facultadas para imponer un monto de
resarcimiento por daños de más de 1 millón de dong.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre la facultad de imponer el resarcimiento por daños del propietario o del importador serán
promulgadas en circulares conjuntas sobre las medidas en frontera (2002).
Se permitirá que el titular del derecho haga
inspeccionar los productos retenidos para poder
sustentar sus reclamaciones. Se dará a losimportadores una oportunidad equivalente. En casode que se determine la existencia de infracción desus derechos, los miembros comunicarán al titularlos nombres y direcciones de las personas
encargadas de la importación. Artículo 57.No existen disposiciones detalladas al respecto.
Las disposiciones detalladas sobre la aplicación de estos proc edimientos serán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas sobre
las medidas en frontera (2002).
Se establecerán las condiciones que rigen para loscasos en que las autoridades de aduana estánfacultadas para actuar de oficio, incluida laposibilidad de solicitar información al titular de losderechos en cualquier momento y la prontanotificación de la suspensión al importador. Los
funcionarios públicos incurrirán en responsabilidad
si cometen actos de mala fe. Artículo 58.Ordenanza de 1995 sobre los procedimientos para los dictámenes relativos a infracciones administrativas:
Las oficinas de aduanas están facultadas para incautar o confiscar, por propia iniciativa, las mercancías importadas o
exportadas ilegalmente.
Las leyes y reglamentos vigentes no prevén la exoneración de los funcionarios públicos que actúen de mala fe.Las disposiciones detalladas sobre estas facultades y obligaciones serán promulgadas en circulares conjuntas sobre las
medidas en frontera (2002).WT/ACC/VNM/21
Página 41Acuerdo sobre los ADPIC Viet Nam
Observancia
Las autoridades competentes estarán facultadas
para ordenar la destrucción o eliminación de lasmercancías infractoras cuando corresponda, pero no
podrán autorizar su reexportación. Artículo 59.Decreto del Gobierno Nº 12/19 99/ND-CP de 6 de marzo de 1999 sobre las me didas administrativas contra las infracciones
en la esfera de la propiedad industrial y la Circular Nº 825/2000/TT BKHCNMT de 3 de mayo de 2000 del Ministerio deCiencia, Tecnología y Medio Ambiente, que establ ece las directrices para la aplicación del Decreto supra, dispone que las
autoridades competentes estarán facultadas para ordenar la destrucción o la disposición de las mercancías infractoras
mediante otras medidas.
Las disposiciones detalladas que no autorizan la reexportaci ón de las mercancías infractoras en algunos casos serán
promulgadas en circulares conjuntas sobre las medidas en frontera (2002).
Los miembros podrán excluir de la aplicación de lasmedidas en frontera las pequeñas cantidades demercancías que no tengan carácter comercial y
formen parte del equipaje personal de los viajeros o
se envíen en pequeñas partidas. Artículo 60.El Decreto del Gobierno 63/CP de 24 de octubre de 1996 sobre los reglamentos detallados relativos a la propiedad
industrial (artículo 34 y apartado a) del párrafo 1 del artículo 52), establece que la importación con fines no comerciales no
se considerará una infracción de los derechos de propiedad industrial.
El artículo 760 del Código Civil establece que el uso con fines no comerciales que no es contrario a la explotación normal
de las obras y no perjudica injustificadamente los interese s legítimos del autor, no se considerará una infracción del
derecho de autor.
- Procedimientos penales
Se establecerán procedimientos y sanciones penalessuficientemente disuasorias para los casos defalsificación dolosa de marcas de fábrica o decomercio o de piratería lesiva del derecho de autor
a escala comercial. Se autorizará extender las
medidas penales a otros casos de infracción de losderechos de propiedad intelectual, en particularcuando se cometa dolo y a escala comercial.Artículo 61.Código Penal de 1999:
- Delito de infracción del derecho de autor (artículo 131);
- Delito de fabricación y comercialización de mercancías falsificadas (artículo 156);
- Delito de inducir a error a los consumidores (artículo 162);
- Delito de publicidad engañosa (artículo 168);
- Delito de infracción al derecho de propiedad industrial (artículo 171).
__________
| 18,595 | 119,048 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_ADP_N113.pdf
|
Q_G_ADP_N113
|
./.WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONG/ADP/N/113
23 December 2003
(03-6751)
Committee on Anti-Dumping Practices
REPORTS UNDER ARTICLE 16.4
(December 2003)
Note by the Secretariat
Listed hereunder are reports under Article 16.4 of the Uruguay Round Agreement received in
December 2003. These reports have been received from Canada; the European Communities ;
Pakistan; Turkey ; and the United States concerning preliminary and final anti-dumping actions and
are available in the WTO Secretariat for inspection by government representatives.1
_______________
Reporting Member: CANADA
Product Country or
Customs territory
Performed fibreglass pipe insulation with a vapour barrier United States
Reporting Member: EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES
Certain electronic weighing scales (REWS) Chinese Taipei
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film India
Fluospar China
Reporting Member: PAKISTAN
Sorbitol 70% solution France
Indonesia
1 Interested delegations are requested to contact Miss S. Aspinall, Office 1028, Tel.: 739 5109.This document has been prepared under the Secretariat's own
responsibility and without prejudice to the positions of Members
and to their rights and obligations under the WTO.G/ADP/N/113
Page 2
Reporting Member: TURKEY
Tempered glass lids China
Reporting Member: UNITED STATES
Product Country or
Customs territory
Certain malleable iron pipe fittings China
Certain colour television receivers China
Malaysia
Persulfates ChinaCertain processed hazelnuts Turkey
_______________
| 195 | 1,538 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_WT_DAILYB_01_82.pdf
|
Q_WT_DAILYB_01_82
| 0 | 0 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
|
WTO_99/Q_IP_C_W49.pdf
|
Q_IP_C_W49
|
RESTRICTED
WORLD TRADE IP/C/W/49
11November 1996
ORGANIZATION(96-4777)
Original: English Council forTrade-Related Aspects
ofIntellectual Property Rights
REVIEW OFLEGISLATION ONTRADEMARKS, GEOGRAPHICAL
INDICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL DESIGNS
Replies from theCzech Republic toquestions posed bytheEuropean
Community anditsMember States1,theUnited States2andJapan3
Thefollowing communication, dated 6November 1996, hasbeenreceived fromthePermanent
Mission oftheCzech Republic.
1Document IP/C/W/37
2Document IP/C/W/39
3Document IP/C/W/40IP/C/W/49
Page2
REPLIES TOQUESTIONS POSED BYTHE EUROPEAN
COMMUNITY AND ITSMEMBER STATES
Geographical indications
1. Could theCzech Republic explain howthedefinition ofappellation ororigin included inits
legislation fulfils thecriteria setoutinArticle 22.1oftheTRIPS Agreement?
According toprovisions of§1oftheCzech LawNo.159/1973 Coll. ofL.,onProtection of
Appellations ofOrigin ofProducts, appellation oforigin ofproducts means ageographical name of
country, region orlocality which hascome tobegenerally known todesignate aproduct originating
therein thequality andcharacteristics ofwhich aredueexclusively oressentially tothegeographical
environment, including natural orhuman factors. Thisdefinition complies withcriteria stated in
Article 22.1oftheTRIPS Agreement, because itcontains identical conceptual characters. Inboth
cases itisanindication which shallbearthename ofacountry oritsregion orlocality which serves
asanindication ofaproduct originating inthisregion, locality orcountry andwhich ischaracterized
byfeatures, quality, reputation orother characteristics which areessentially attributable tothis
geographical origin. TheCzech definition specifies inmore detail thisfactwhen itexplicitly refers
tohuman andnatural factors.
2. Could theGovernment oftheCzech Republic clarify whether itslegislation foresees additional
protection forgeographical indications forwines andspirits (Article 23oftheTRIPS Agreement)?
Ifyes,please explain.
PresentlegislationoftheCzechRepublicenablestoensureadditionalprotectionforgeographical
indications forwines andspirits according toArticle 23oftheTRIPS Agreement. Thebasisforsuch
protection isprovided bytheLawonProtection ofAppellations ofOrigin ofProducts (theLawNo.
159/1973 Coll.ofL.)andanewCzech Trademark Law(theLawNo.137/1995 Coll.ofL.).According
totheLawonProtection ofAppellations ofOrigin ofProducts thisprotection isprovided intheform
ofregistration ofappellation oforigin intotheregister oftheIndustrial Property Office. Nobody is
allowed tomisuse theregistered appellation oforigin, inparticular toappropriate itortoimitate it,
evenifthetrueorigin ofaproduct isindicated orevenifappellation isusedintranslated orinaltered
form, ifdespite thedifference thereisariskofconfusion, orevenifitisaccompanied byexpressions
suchas"kind", "type", "imitation", etc.Theregistered appellation oforigin maynotbeusedasthe
generic name ofaproduct (§4). Onlytheregistered holder oftherights touseanappellation oforigin
mayusetheregistered appellation oforigin. Theregistered holder ofrights touseanappellation of
origin candemand fromarespective court bodythatbreach ofhisrights should beprohibited andthat
defective status should beremoved. Thevalid Czech Trademark Lawexcludes from registration a
signwhich consists exclusively ofindications ofgeographical origin ofproducts. Inaddition, indications
which mayconfuse thepublic about geographical origin ofproducts orservices areexcluded from
theregistration. Thelawfurther enables toexclude fromregistration allindications whose utilization
would becontrary tothecommitments arising fortheCzech Republic frominternational agreements.
According toprovision of§3,paragraph 1oftheCzech law,theOffice shallnotregister theindication
identical withatrademark which isapplied orregistered foranother owner foridentical orsimilar
goods orservices withprevious rightofpriority, event. which contains elements ofapplied indication
orregistered trademark which could leadtoconfusion. TheOffice shallcancel thetrademark from
theperson 'sproposal orexofficio thatthetrademark wasregistered inconflict withthislaw. The
Czech Republic provides legalmeans preventing theuseofthegeographical indication identifying wines
orspirits forwines andspirits which donotcome fromthelocality stated inarespective geographical
indication aswellasthrough protection against unfair competition, byspecial factual basisofdeceptive
labelling ofgoods (§46oftheLawNo.513/1991 Coll. ofL.).IP/C/W/49
Page3
Industrial designs
3. Does thelawoftheCzech Republic provide fortheprotection oftextile designs, including
fashion? Ifyes,onwhatlegal basis andunder which conditions?
Protection oftextile designs intheCzech Republic isensured byvalid legal regulation of
industrial designs which iscontained inthesecond partin§§36-62 oftheLawNo.527/1990 Coll.
ofL.,onInventions, Industrial Designs andRationalization Proposals. Protection oftextile designs
isprovided under thesame conditions which apply toprotection ofallindustrial designs. Thelaw
hasnospecial provisions relating exclusively totextile designs. Theindustrial design must satisfy
thecondition ofnovelty andindustrial applicability. Anapplied industrial design issubmitted to
examination bytheIndustrial Property Office. Theprotection shallresult from theregistration of
industrial design intheregister ofindustrial designs attheIndustrial Property Office. TheOffice shall
publish anotice oftheregistration ofanindustrial design intheOfficial Bulletin. Thepossibility to
obtain protection oftextile design asanother appearance ofaproduct isnottiedtoanyconditions which
would burden theapplicant. Ifatextile design isanauthor 'swork, itisalsounder protection according
tocopyright intheCzech Republic.
4. Theduration ofprotection under theCzech lawamounts tofiveyears (paragraph 54ofAct
No.527/1990 Coll. onInventions). Thisperiod maybeextended bytheIntellectual Property Office,
based ontherequest oftheowner ofanindustrial design, foramaximum oftwofive-year periods.
- AretheCzech authorities aware thatthefive-year extension provision would appear
tobeconsistent withArticle 26.3oftheTRIPS Agreement onlyiftheextension is
automatically granted upon application oftherightholder?
- What istheexact meaning of"may be"?
- Arethere anyreasons forrejection ofsuchanextension?
Thevalid legalregulation ofindustrial designs intheCzech Republic enables theindustrial
design owner togradually obtain available protection ofindustrial design forupto15years, i.e.five
years more thanrequired byArticle 26.3oftheTRIPS Agreement. TheIndustrial Property Office
shallautomatically extend theoriginal five-year period ofindustrial design registration ifsorequested
bytheowner. TheOffice cannot refuse thisextension andthere arenoreasons forrefusal ofsuch
extension. Czech bodies arenotfullyconvinced thatthisregulation isindiscrepancy withthestated
Article oftheTRIPS Agreement. Onthecontrary, theysuppose thatthisregulation iswider thanArticle
26.3oftheTRIPS Agreement.
Authentic Czech wording ofthestated provision of§54,paragraph 2oftheLawNo.527/1990
Coll. ofL.corresponds toexpression "shall be"instead of"may be".
REPLIES TOQUESTIONS POSED
BYTHE UNITED STATES
General Observation
Since 1October 1995anewLawonTrademarks iseffective intheCzech Republic (theLaw
No.137/1995 coll.ofL.)which already takesintoaccount thecommitments arising fromtheAgreement
onTrade-Related Aspects ofIntellectual Property Rights. Thisisimportant particularly because theIP/C/W/49
Page4
majority ofquestions from theAmerican siderefers toorcomes from theprevious legalregulation
(theLawNo.174/1988 Coll. ofL.)which wasalready cancelled andisnotrelevant fortheCzech
Republic. Thus, themajority ofquestions relating totrademarks isprecluded bythepresently valid
regulation asgiven from thefollowing answers:
1. Section 2oftheGeneral Provisions liststhesigns thatcanconstitute atrademark. Thislist
doesnotinclude personal names, numerals, letters orcolours. Please explain howSection 2ofthe
General Provisions complies withTRIPS Article 15.1.
Thesubject matter oftrademarks protection intheCzech Republic ispositively defined inthe
same wayasinArticle 15.1oftheTRIPS Agreement, i.e.itincludes allgraphically illustratable signs
thatconsist ofwords (including personal names), letters, numerals, drawings (including combinations
ofcolours) ortheshape ofproduct oritspackaging, oracombination thereof, intending todistinguish
goods orservices ofvarious undertakings.
2. TRIPS Article 15.3requires WTO Members topermit thefiling ofanapplication toregister
atrademark prior toactual useofthemark, andfurther specifies thatsuchapplications cannot be
refused solely ontheground thattheintended usehasnotoccurred prior tothree years fromthedate
ofapplication. Please explain howCzech lawcomplies withthisprovision oftheTRIPS Agreement.
TheCzech Republic didnotsetanycondition ofprevious useofthemark prior tofiling of
anapplication. Filing ofanapplication isnottiedtothisfactandtherefore itcannot berefused on
thegrounds thatitdidnotoccur bothprior tofiling ofanapplication andalsoatanytimethereafter.
Thevalid legalregulation oftheCzech Republic isfullyinharmony withArticle 15.3oftheTRIPS
Agreement. Itistrue,however, thatnon-use ofthealready registered trademark canbetheground
foritscancellation unless theregistered trademark wasusedintheCzech Republic fortheperiod of
atleastfiveyears priortothebeginning ofcancellation proceedings andunless itsowner justifies such
non-use. However, thisquestion isnotrelevant forArticle 15.3oftheTRIPS Agreement.
3. Please explain whether thenature ofgoods orservices towhich atrademark istobeapplied
canserve asanobstacle totheregistration ofthemark under thelawoftheCzech Republic. Ifso,
please identify andexplain thesubject matter excluded under thisauthority, therelative provisions
oftheCzech lawthatserve asabasis forthese exclusions, andhowthispractice complies withTRIPS
Article 15.4.
Thevalidtrademark lawoftheCzech Republic doesnotknow anyobstacle totheregistration
ofthetrademark intotheregister onthegrounds ofthenature ofgoods orservices towhich atrademark
istobeapplied. Thus, trademark protection isfullyindependent onwhether theproduct towhich
theprotection applies canorcannot bethesubject matter ofbusiness.
4. Section 13(1) oftheCzech lawprovides foratenyeartermfortrademarks beginning onthe
filing dateoftheapplication, notfromthedatetheregistration isgranted. Please explain howthis
provision complies withtheobligation ofTRIPS Article 18thatWTO Members provide aminimum
seven yeartermofprotection forregistered trademarks.
Thetermofprotection forregistered trademarks intheCzech Republic amounts to10years
from thefiling dateoftheapplication. Inevery case, thetermofprotection intheCzech Republic
willbelonger thanstated byArticle 18oftheTRIPS Agreement, evenifthetermstated herein started
torunfromthedateofatrademark registration which isnotexplicitly given inArticle 18oftheTRIPS
Agreement.IP/C/W/49
Page5
5. Please explain whether theowner ofaregistered trademark hastheexclusive righttoprevent
thirdparties fromusing identical orsimilar signs onsimilar goods orservices asrequired byTRIPS
Article 16.1.
Theowner ofatrademark registered intheCzech Republic candemand atacourtthateverybody
should beprevented from using identical orsimilar signs foridentical orsimilar goods orservices
andthatarticles identified inthemanner which infringes hisrights should bewithdrawn fromthemarket.
Theexclusive rightofthetrademark owner toprevent allthirdparties frominfringement ofhisrights
isregulated alsobyother provisions ofthepresently valid law,especially in§§13, 14and15ofthe
LawNo.137/1995 Coll. ofL.
6. Please explain whether thetrademark lawoftheCzech Republic establishes apresumption
oflikelihood ofconfusion inthedetermination ofconfusing similarity incases where identical marks
areusedonidentical goods, asrequired byTRIPS Article 16.1. Ifso,please identify andexplain the
legal basis forthispresumption.
Thetrademark owner 'srighttoprevent allthirdparties formusing identical orsimilar signs
foridentical orsimilar products inbusiness activity isunderstood intheCzech Republic asabsolute
andisdefined more widely thanrequired byArticle 16.1oftheTRIPS Agreement. Thetrademark
owner hasalways thisrightregardless whether suchuseshould result inlikelihood ofconfusion. For
these reasons thevalid legal regulations oftheCzech Republic donotcontain thepresumption of
likelihood ofconfusion.
7. Please explain:
- thestandard used intheCzech Republic fordetermining whether amark is
“well-known ”;
- howregistered andunregistered well-known marks areprotected under thetrademark
lawoftheCzech Republic; and
- whether knowledge within therelevant sector ofthepublic asaresult ofpromotion
ofthemark isconsidered intheanalysis leading toadetermination thatamark is
well-known.
Withrespect toeachaspect ofthisquestion, please explain howthestandards orpractices comply
withTRIPS Articles 16.2and16.3.
ThestandardusedintheCzechRepublicfordeterminationwhetheramarkiswell-knownfollows
fromArticle 6bisoftheParisConvention fortheProtection ofIndustrial Property andfromtrademark
practices andthecourt judicature before 1938. Consideration ofthecommon trademark knowledge
intheCzech Republic depends onitsgoodreputation andnotion within consumers andentrepreneurial
public. Here, thefactors ofpublication intensity andsignevaluation aredecisive. TheCzech Republic
doesnotdispose ofanewer judicature from decision-making practice ofcourts yet,regarding the
short-time influence ofthelaw;nevertheless, wecannot expect thattheevaluation ofcommon trademark
knowledge willmake special difficulties. Onthecontrary, wecanexpect, regarding thecontinuity
oflegalculture, thatthecourt practice willkeepasimilar standard oftheEuropean continental law.
Astotheadministrative decision-making practices, theexperience from administrative proceedings
accordingtothepreviousregulationisused,whentheregistrationauthoritypronouncedso-calledfamous
trademark byadministrative verdict which wasrecorded intheregister. Theowner ofawell-known
mark(bothregistered andunregistered) hastherighttofileoppositions against registration oftrademarks
withalaterrightofpriority intotheregister. Inaddition totherights granted toowners ofregisteredIP/C/W/49
Page6
trademarks, theowner ofawell-known trademark hastherighttoprohibit theuseofhistrademark
oraconfusing signregardless oftheidentity orsimilarity ofproducts orservices iftheuseofthe
well-known trademark onotherproducts orservices indicates arelation between suchidentified products
orservices andtheowner ofthewell-known trademark, andfurther torequire cancellation ofsuch
atrademark which would illegally benefit from distinguishing competence orgood reputation ofa
well-known trademark, orifitweretoitsprejudice, regardless ofwhether thetrademark concerned
wasregistered foridentical orsimilar products orservices. Also, inacasewhere theuseofawell-known
trademark oraconfusing signistheconduct ofunfair competition bythecourt decision, theowner
ofawell-known trademark oraconfusing signistheconduct ofunfair competition bythecourtdecision,
theowner ofwell-known trademark canrequire thecancellation ofacolliding trademark. Themanner
howthetrademark becomes well-known isnotstated bylaw. Todate, examination practice ofthe
Industrial Property Office indicates thatthetrademark promotion isoneofthemethods howatrademark
becomes well-known. Based ontheabove-mentioned, itisevident thatthewell-known trademark in
theCzech Republic isgiven protection notonlywithin thescope ofArticles 16.2and16.3oftheTRIPS
Agreement, butwithregard toeventual opposition andaspecial reason forcancellation evenabove
thisframework.
8. Section 15(4) oftheCzech lawpermits atrademark owner toaskthecustoms authorities to
withhold theentryofgoods bearing infringing marks. Please explain howthelawoftheCzech Republic
implements andapplies theprovisions regarding border measures found inTRIPS Articles 51to60
withregard tosuchgoods bearing infringing trademarks.
Upon request ofatrademark owner thecustoms authorities intheCzech Republic shallnot
release thegoods having abusiness nature intofreecirculation iftheirindication infringes therights
ofatrademark owner. So,thecustoms authorities areentitled bythetrademark lawtotakepublic
lawmeasures before theymeritorily findoutthatthebusiness goods arereally counterfeit. Atpresent
anewlawisbeing prepared intheCzech Republic which willregulate border measures inacomplex
wayinaccordance withArticles 51-60 oftheTRIPS Agreement. Itissupposed thatthelawonthe
prohibitionofentryofcounterfeitandpiracygoodsintofreecirculationinthesystemofexport,re-export
andinsystems with conditional exemption from customs duty willtakeeffect notlater than
1January 1998.
9. Article 18(1) oftheCzech trademark lawspecifies thatonefactor inthedetermination ofwhether
amark is“wellknown ”isthe“extent orlongduration ofitsutilization forhigh-quality goods or
services ”.Please explain howthisfactor isapplied inpractice and,inparticular, whether the“high
quality ”evaluation canpreclude recognition ofamark aswellknown mark.
Thequestion isnotrelevant fortheCzech Republic atpresent, because itcontains thereference
totheprovision about so-called famous trademarks which isnowcancelled bythelawinforce.
According topresent validlegalstatus, theregistration office doesnotrequire anydataonhighquality
products orservices indicated bytrademark forsubmission ofdocuments relating tocommon trademark
knowledge.
10. Section 19(1) oftheCzech lawrequires strict compliance oftheuseofthetrademark inthe
forminwhich itisregistered. Please explain howthisprovision complies withTRIPS Article 2.1,
totheextent itincorporates Article 5C(2) oftheParis Convention, which states thatprotection shall
beafforded tomarks thatmaydiffer fromtheregistered mark aslongasthedifferences donotalter
thedistinctive character oftheregistered mark.
Thequestion stated under thispoint isnotrelevant fortheCzech Republic either, because the
stated provision oftrademark lawtowhich itrefers wascancelled bypresently valid law. The
Czech Republic through presently validlawdidnotlimitthecommitment following fromArticle 5(C)2IP/C/W/49
Page7
oftheParisConvention fortheProtection ofIndustrial Property inanyway,especially itdidnotmake
thematter inthequestion stated bythereason ofcancellation oftheregistration anddidnotreduce
thegranted protection fortrademark.
11. Section 23(1)(b) oftheCzech lawallows marks tobecancelled iftheowner doesnotprovide
a“good reason ”fornon-use. Please explain howthisprovision complies withTRIPS Article 19.1
which requires thatWTO Members recognize certain circumstances thatariseindependently ofthewill
ofthetrademark owner asbeing valid reasons fornon-use toprevent cancellation ofaregistration
fornon-use. Also, please explain thetypes ofcircumstances thatwould besufficient tosatisfy this
provision (i.e., “good reasons ”fornon-use), including, where relevant, results ofadministrative or
judicial decisions addressing thisissue.
According tothepresently validregulation oftrademark lawitispossible tocancel atrademark
foritsnon-use unless suchnon-use isproperly justified bythetrademark owner. TheIndustrial Property
Office considers aslegitimate especially those reasons which arose independently onthewillofthe
trademark owner andwere notcaused byhisnegligence. Itincludes non-caused impossibility to
manufacture products orprovide services, e.g.because offorce majeure, i.e.byinfluence ofnatural
forces without human endeavour, which could notbeprevented bycare,caution andendeavours. For
example, asaproper reason wasconsidered thereason ofthepharmaceutical product manufacturer
whojustified thenon-use oftrademark bynon-issue ofadecision fromthemedicament control body.
12. Please describe themethods bywhich industrial designs areprotected intheCzech Republic,
inparticular:
- theformorforms ofintellectual property usedtoprotect thedesign
(e.g., patent, copyright, suigeneris);
- theconditions thatmustbesatisfied toobtain thegrant ofsuchprotection
(e.g., whether designs mustbenewororiginal andtheparameters ofthese concepts),
andabriefdescription oftheregistration orgranting procedure;
- thenature oftherights granted andthetermofprotection provided;
- thenature ofremedies available totheowner ofeachtypeofprotection, including a
description oftheconditions thatmaybeimposed (e.g., whether commercial useis
required); and
- whether anyexceptions toprotection orrights existforeachtypeofintellectual property
involved.
Thelegalprotection ofindustrial designs intheCzech Republic isensured intheformofspecial
legalprotection ofindustrial designs which wasintroduced from 1January 1991. Thisprotection is
contained intheLawNo.527/1990 Coll. ofL.,onInventions, Industrial Designs andRationalization
Proposals.
According totheCzech lawindustrial designs areprotected purely from theaesthetic point
ofviewandnotfrom thepoint ofviewoftheirutility. Anindustrial design within themeaning of
thislawshallbetheappearance ofaproduct thatisnewandsusceptible toindustrial application.
Theappearance ofaproduct shallbeconstituted byanytwoorthree-dimensional getupconsisting,
inparticular, intheshape, contours, ornamentation orinthearrangement ofthecolours orina
combination ofsuchfeatures.IP/C/W/49
Page8
Themethod ofanindustrial design protection isregistration ofanindustrial design intothe
register maintained bytheIndustrial Property Office. Thebasic substantive andlegalcondition for
providing theprotection toindustrial design isnovelty oftheindustrial design. According to§38
ofthelawtheindustrial design isnewunless priortothetermwhen theapplicant hastherightofpriority
itwasknown intheCzech Republic orabroad from publicly available sources, especially unless it
wasdisplayed ordescribed inpublished papers orunless itwaspublicly used, exhibited, demonstrated
orpresented. Another condition forobtaining protection isindustrial applicability oftheindustrial
design. According to§39ofthelawtheindustrial design issusceptible ofapplication ifitcanbeused
forrepetitive manufacturing ofproducts.
Theprocedure oftheindustrial design registration iscommenced byfiling ofanindustrial design
application withtheIndustrial Property Office. Filing ofanapplication gives theapplicant theright
ofpriority. Theapplication maycontain onlyoneappearance ofaproduct ormore appearances of
products ofidentical kindsimilar toeachother orintended forcommon use(multiple application of
theindustrial design). Theapplied industrial design issubmitted toexamination bytheOffice when
theapplied industrial design isexamined ifitisnewandsusceptible forindustrial application. Ifthe
subject matter oftheindustrial design application satisfies legalconditions forregistration, theOffice
shallperform itsregistration intheindustrial design register andshallissueacertificate ofregistration
totheindustrial design owner. TheOffice shallpublish anotice ortheregistration ofanindustrial
design intheOfficial Bulletin.
Thetermofanindustrial design registration shallbefiveyears asfromthefiling dateofthe
application. Thetotaltermavailable forindustrial design protection intheCzech Republic is15years.
Theoriginal five-year termshallbeextended bytheIndustrial Property Office foramaximum oftwo
five-year periods.
Rights belonging bytheCzech lawtotheindustrial design owner shallhavetheexclusive
character. Theindustrial design owner shallhave, inparticular, theexclusive righttowork thedesign,
toauthorize others towork itortoassign ittoothers. Healsohastherighttoprevent allthirdpersons
from infringing hisexclusive rights.
Theregistration procedure ontheindustrial design application which isperformed bythe
IndustrialPropertyOfficeshallbegovernedbygeneralprincipleswhichareinaccordancewithArticle62
oftheTRIPS Agreement. Inaddition totheregistration procedure theOffice shallperform alsothe
procedure ontheindustrial design cancellation. Theapplicant andtheindustrial design owner shall
haveallproceedings legalmeans athisdisposal. Inareaofinfringing ofrights theindustrial design
owner shallhavecivillawproceedings athisdisposal asrequired bytheTRIPS Agreement; courts
haveappropriate competence relating totheissueofprovisional measures orinjunctions oninfringement
ofrights, indemnification orproviding evidence. Intentional infringement ofrights totheindustrial
design isqualified bytheCzech criminal lawasacriminal offence. Remedies include bothimprisonment
andfinancial penalties.
Commercial utilization oftheindustrial design isnotrequired bytheCzech law.
Thelawin§36paragraph 2contains alistofsolutions which arenotconsidered asindustrial
designs andwhich arenotcompetent forprotection ofindustrial designs. These are:(a)atechnical
solution orconcept, (b)application oftheknown appearance ofaproduct toaproduct ofanother kind
oroftheappearance obtained byenlarging orreducing theknown appearance ofaproduct, (c)
substitution ofamaterial usedfortheappearance ofaproduct, (d)anarchitectural concept, (e)the
appearance ofaproduct thatcanonlybeascertained ifspecial attention ispaid, (f)thecolour except
where usedinrelation totheshape, contours orornamentation.IP/C/W/49
Page9
Thevalid legal regulation ofindustrial designs intheCzech Republic doesnotstateany
exceptions fromexclusive rights oftheindustrial design owner. According tolaw,effects ofindustrial
property registration arelimited onlyinthecaseoftheprevious userrightwhich isregulated inthe
lawbyprovisions of§60.
13. Please explain howtextile designs areprotected under yourlaw.
Protection oftextile designs intheCzech Republic isensured inaccordance withArticle 25.2
oftheTRIPS Agreement byvalidlegalregulation ofindustrial designs which iscontained inthesecond
partin§§36-62 oftheLaw527/1990 Coll. ofL.,onInventions, Industrial Designs andRationalization
Proposals. Thisprotection isprovided under thesame conditions which apply toprotection ofall
industrial designs. Ifatextile design isanauthor 'swork itisalsounder protection according to
copyright intheCzech Republic.
14. Please indicate whether geographical indications forwines andspirits aregiven additional
protection compared togeographical indications forother goods. Ifnot,please explain howCzech
lawisconsistent withTRIPS Article 23.
Present legislation oftheCzech Republic enables theprovision ofadditional protection of
geographical indications forwines andspirits according toArticle 23oftheTRIPS Agreement. The
basis forsuchprotection isprovided bytheLawonProtection ofAppellations ofOrigin ofProducts
(theLawNo.159/1973 Coll. ofL.)andanewCzech Trademark Law(theLawNo.137/1995 Coll.
ofL.).According totheLawonProtection ofAppellations ofOrigin ofProducts theprotection is
provided intheformofregistration oftheappellation oforigin intotheregister oftheIndustrial Property
Office. Nobody isallowed tomisuse theregistered appellation oforigin, inparticular toappropriate
itortoimitate it,evenifthetrueorigin ofaproduct isindicated oreveniftheappellation isused
intranslated orinaltered form, ifdespite thedifference there isariskofconfusion orevenifitis
accompanied byexpressions like"kind", "type", "imitation", etc.Theregistered appellation oforigin
maynotbeusedasageneric name ofaproduct (§4). Only theregistered holder ofrights tousean
appellation oforigin mayusetheregistered appellation oforigin. Theregistered holder ofrights to
useanappellation oforigin candemand fromarelevant court bodythatinfringing ofhisrights should
beprohibited andthatthedefective status should beremoved. Thevalidtrademark lawoftheCzech
Republic excludes from registration asignwhich consists exclusively ofindications ofgeographical
origin ofproducts. Inaddition, theindications which canconfuse thepublic about geographical origin
ofproducts ofservices areexcluded fromregistration. Thelawfurther enables: toexclude registration
ofallindications whose utilization would becontrary tothecommitments arising fortheCzech Republic
from international agreements. According totheprovisions of§3paragraph 1oftheCzech lawthe
Office shallnotregister theindication identical withatrademark which isapplied orregistered for
another owner foridentical orsimilar products orservices withprevious rightofpriority, event. which
contains elements ofapplied indication orregistered trademark which could leadtoconfusion. The
Office shallcancel thetrademark fromtheregister ifitisfound outinproceedings commenced upon
athird person 'sproposal orexofficio thatthetrademark wasregistered inconflict withthislaw.
TheCzech Republic provides legal means which prevent theuseofthegeographical indications
identifying wines orspirits forwines andspirits which donotcome from thelocality stated inthe
respective geographical indication aswellasthrough protection against unfair competition byspecial
factual basis ofdeceptive labelling ofgoods (§46oftheLawNo.513/1991 Coll. ofL.).
15. Section 16(3) oftheCzech Trademark Actrequires theowner ofatrademark toacquiesce to
theuseofanidentical orconfusingly similar signwhich, intheperiod oftwoyears before thefiling
oftheapplication, hasbecome characteristic fortheidentical orsimilar goods orservices ofitsholder,
suchusebeing made bythatholder intheCzech Republic. Please explain howthisprovision ofCzech
lawisconsistent withTRIPS Article 16.1, which grants thetrademark owner theexclusive right toIP/C/W/49
Page10
prevent usebythird parties ofidentical orsimilar signs ongoods orservices identical toorsimilar
tothose inrespect ofwhich thetrademark isregistered.
According totheCzech Trademark Law, theholder ofanunregistered trademark isprotected
under exactly defined conditions andinthisconnection performance ofsubjective rights ofthetrademark
owner canbelimited inacasewhere performance offormal trademark lawwould interfere withthe
rights which arose byfactual useofthetrademark which wasasserted inbusiness contacts. Atpresent
therights ofholders ofunregistered trademarks areunderstood similarly astherightofaprior user
inpatent law. Limitation oftheregistration effect towards anunregistered trademark holder isnot
aninfringement ofotherwise absolute rightregulated byArticle 16.1oftheTRIPS Agreement.
16. Section 15(2) oftheCzech Trademark Actgrants theowner ofaregistered mark theauthority
toprevent thirdparties nothaving hisconsent fromusing identical orsimilar marks inrelation togoods
orservices thatareidentical tothose forwhich theregistration hasbeengranted. Itisnotclearwhether
theowner ofaregistered mark isalsogiven these rights withrespect togoods orservices thatare
similar tothose forwhich registration hasbeengranted. Please explain whether suchauthority is
granted under Czech law,andifnot,howthispractice isconsistent withTRIPS Article 16.1.
Thequestion stated hereisidentical withthequestion andanswer stated under point 5.In
every case, theowner ofaregistered trademark hastherightofprohibition ifthegoods orservices
arenotidentical butonlysimilar tothose forwhich thetrademark registration hasbeengranted.
17. Section 7(4)oftheCzech Trademark Actprovides thatcollective marks mayonlybeusedin
conjunction withanindividual mark orwiththename ofalegal person insuchawaythattheorigin
ofthegoods thusmarked shallbeclear. Please explain howthisprovision isconsistent withTRIPS
Article 20,which provides thattheuseofatrademark shallnotbeunjustifiably encumbered byspecial
requirements, suchasusewithanother trademark oruseinaspecial form.
Thequestion concerning theuseofacollective trademark relates totheregulation which was
cancelled intheCzech Republic. Atpresent, inaccordance withArticle 20oftheTRIPS Agreement,
theCzech Republic doesnotstateanyobligation touseacollective trademark inconnection withan
individual trademark.
REPLIES TOQUESTIONS POSED
BYJAPAN
1. Since itisnotclearly stipulated intheActonInventions, Industrial Designs andRationalization
Proposals thattextile designs areprotected inconformity withtheTRIPS Agreement, please explain
under which provision oftheActorother copyright related lawthesedesigns areprotected. Moreover,
tomake surethattheopportunity toseekandobtain protection fortextile designs isnotimpaired
unreasonably, please explain yoursystem orpractice particularly withregard tocost, examination
orpublication (cf.paragraph 2ofArticle 25oftheTRIPS Agreement).
Protection oftextile designs intheCzech Republic isensured inaccordance withArticle 25.2
oftheTRIPS Agreement byvalidlegalregulation forindustrial designs which iscontained inthesecond
partin§§36-62 oftheLaw No.527/1990 Coll. ofL.onInventions, Industrial Designs and
Rationalization Proposals. Thelawhasnospecial provisions fortextile designs. Thisprotection is
provided under thesameconditions which areeffective forobtaining protection ofallindustrial designs
astheappearance ofanyproduct. Thepossibility toobtain protection oftextile designs isnottied
toanyspecial conditions which would burden theapplicant. Theindustrial design must satisfy the
condition ofnovelty andindustrial applicability. Anapplied design issubmitted toexamination byIP/C/W/49
Page11
theIndustrial Property Office. During examination theOffice examines ifthesubject matter ofthe
industrial design application isnewandsusceptible toindustrial application. Theprotection shallresult
from theregistration oftheindustrial design intheregister ofindustrial designs attheOffice. The
Office shallpublish anotice oftheregistration ofanindustrial design intheOfficial Bulletin.
Theadministrative feeforfiling ofanindustrial design application containing onedesign
including issuance ofaregistration certificate, notice oftheregistered industrial design intheOfficial
Bulletin andforobtaining protection forthefirstfiveyears according tovaliddecree onadministrative
feesis1000CZK. foramultiple application which maycontain asmayastwenty variants ofdesigns,
theadministrative feeinsuchcaseis2900 CZK.
Ifthetextile design satisfies conditions oftheauthor 'swork, itisalsoprotected bycopyright
means.
2. Theword "selling" isnotincluded inthescope ofworking onindustrial design provided for
inArticle 56oftheActonInventions, Industrial Designs andRationalization Proposals. Ifthephrase
"placessuchproductonthemarket"correspondstotheword"selling",pleaseelaborateonthedifference
between thetwo(cf.paragraph 1ofArticle 26oftheTRIPS Agreement).
According totheCzech LawonInventions, Industrial Designs andRationalization Proposals,
selling ofproducts manufactured according totheregistered industrial design alsobelongs tomain
forms ofworking oftheindustrial design according tostated provision of§56ofthelawwhere this
method ofworking isexpressed bythewords "places suchproduct onthemarket". Theindustrial
design working isanexclusive rightoftheindustrial design owner. Theindustrial design owner has,
according totheCzech lawwhich isfullyinaccordance withArticle 26.1oftheTRIPS Agreement,
therighttoprevent allthirdpersons nothaving hisapproval frommanufacturing, selling orimporting
products which infringe hisexclusive rights. Thewords "placing onthemarket", except fortraditional
"selling", shallalsorelate tofurther economic activity which enables access toproducts foranunlimited
range ofinterested parties (e.g.based onacontract onthelease, onleasing, etc.).
3. Inyourcountry, thefirstduration ofprotection available islessthantenyears, andanyrenewal
thereafter cannot berequested atthetimeofregistration. Itmayhappen, therefore, thattheduration
ofprotection islessthantenyears whenthefirstduration haslapsed andtherestoration isnotpermitted
afterwards. Would thisnotbecontrary tothespirit ofparagraph 3ofArticle 26oftheTRIPS
Agreement?
Thevalidlegalregulation forindustrial designs intheCzech Republic provides theindustrial
design owner withavailable protection ofanindustrial design upto15years, i.e.fiveyears more than
required byArticle 26.3oftheTRIPS Agreement. Theoriginal termofindustrial design registration,
which isaccording toprovision of§54oftheCzech LawonInventions, Industrial Designs and
Rationalization Proposals fiveyears, shallbeextended bytheIndustrial Property Office foramaximum
oftwofive-year periods uponrequest oftheindustrial design owner. There arenoreasons forrefusal
ofprotection termextension which isfullywithin thediscretion sphere oftheindustrial design owner,
notinthediscretion competence oftheIndustrial Property Office. Inthisconnection wenotice that
theauthentic Czech wording of§54paragraph 2oftheLawNo.527/1990 Coll. ofL.corresponds
withtheexpression "shall be"not"may be". TheCzech Republic doesnotdispose ofanydecision
which would refuse theprotection period extension ifrequired bytheindustrial design owner asassumed
by§54paragraph 3oftheCzech law.
| 3,281 | 36,597 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_WT_LET_444.pdf
|
R_WT_LET_444
|
WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION
ORGANISATION MONDIALE DU COMMERCE
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL DEL COMERCIO
Centre William Rappard Rue de Lausanne 154 Case postale CH - 1211 Genève 21
Téléphone: (+41 22) 739 51 11 Fax: (+41 22) 731 42 06
Internet: http://www.wto.orgRéférence: WLI/100 30 avril 2003
ACCORD SUR LES MARCHÉS PUBLICS
FAIT À MARRAKECH LE 15 AVRIL 1994
CERTIFICATION DE MODIFICATIONS APPORTÉES À L'ACCORD
ENVOI DE COPIES CERTIFIÉES CONFORMES DE PAGES DE REMPLACEMENT
DU SYSTÈME À FEUILLETS MOBILES POUR LES APPENDICES CONTENANT
LES MODIFICATIONS CERTIFIÉES APPORTÉES À L'ACCORD
J'ai l'honneur de vous faire parvenir ci-joint des copies certifiées conformes des pages de
remplacement 1/2 et 2/2 de l'Annexe 1 de l'Appendice I contenant les modifications certifiées.
Les modifications concernent Hong Kong, Chine et ont pris effet le 4 avril 2003 .
Supachai Panitchpakdi
Directeur général
03-2299 WT/Let/444ACCORD SUR LES MARCHÉS PUBLICS
FAIT À MARRAKECH LE 15 AVRIL 1994
CERTIFICATION DE MODIFICATIONS APPORTÉES À L'ACCORD
Il est certifié par la présente que les modifications apportées à l'Annexe 1 de l'Appendice I de
l'Accord sur les marchés publics (1994), concernant Hong Kong, Chine , qui ont été notifiées au
Comité des marchés publics (GPA/W/256) conformément aux procédures prévues à l'article XXIV:6,
ont pris effet le 4 avril 2003 .
Conformément à la Décision du Comité des marchés publics adoptée le 4 juin 1996
concernant l'établissement d'un système à feuillets mobiles ayant valeur juridique pour mettre
périodiquement à jour les Appendices de l'Accord sur les marchés publics (GPA/M/2) et lesprocédures relatives aux modifications du système à feuillets mobiles (GPA/M/5), ces modificationssont contenues dans les pages de remplacement ci-jointes du système à feuillets mobiles. Enconséquence, les pages ci-jointes remplacent les pages 1/2 et 2/2 de l'Annexe 1 de l'Appendice I de
Hong Kong, Chine , dans le système à feuillets mobiles pour les Appendices conformément aux
décisions susmentionnées.
La présente notification est présentée conformément au paragraphe 14 de l'article XXIV de
l'Accord.
La présente certification est déposée auprès du Directeur général de l'Organisation mondiale
du commerce, qui en remettra, dans les moindres délais, une copie certifiée conforme à chaque
partie à l'Accord sur les marchés publics. Elle sera enregistrée conformément aux dispositions del'article 102 de la Charte des Nations Unies.
Fait à Genève le trente avril deux mille trois.
Supachai Panitchpakdi
Copie certifiée conforme:
Directeur généralAPPENDIX I HONG KONG,
CHINAANNEX 1 Page 1/2
4 April 2003 (WT/Let/444)HONG KONG, CHINA
ANNEX 1
Central Government Entities which Procure in Accordance
With the Provisions of this Agreement
Supplies
Threshold : 130,000 SDR for goods and services other than construction services
5,000,000 SDR for construction services
List of Entities :
1. Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department
2. Architectural Services Department
3. Audit Commission
4. Auxiliary Medical Services
5. Buildings Department
6. Census and Statistics Department
7. Civil Aid Services
8. Civil Aviation Department
9. Civil Engineering Department
10. Civil Service Training and Development Institute
11. Companies Registry
12. Correctional Services Department
13. Customs and Excise Department
14. Department of Health
15. Department of Justice
16. Drainage Services Department
17. Electrical and Mechanical Services Department
18. Environmental Protection Department
19. Fire Services Department
20. Food and Environmental Hygiene Department
21. Government Flying Service
22. Government Laboratory
23. Government Land Transport Agency
24. Government Property Agency
25. Government Secretariat
26. Government Supplies Department
27. Highways Department
28. Home Affairs Department
29. Hong Kong Monetary Authority
30. Hong Kong Observatory
31. Hong Kong Police Force (including Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force)
32. Hospital Services DepartmentAPPENDIX I HONG KONG,
CHINAANNEX 1 Page 2/2
4 April 2003 (WT/Let/444)33. Immigration Department
34. Independent Commission Against Corruption
35. Information Services Department
36. Information Technology Services Department
37. Inland Revenue Department
38. Intellectual Property Department
39. Invest Hong Kong
40. Judiciary
41. Labour Department
42. Land Registry
43. Lands Department
44. Legal Aid Department
45. Leisure and Cultural Services Department
46. Management Services Agency
47. Marine Department
48. Office of the Ombudsman
49. Office of the Telecommunications Authority
50. Official Languages Agency
51. Official Receiver's Office
52. Planning Department
53. Post Office
54. Printing Department
55. Public Service Commission
56. Radio Television Hong Kong
57. Rating and Valuation Department
58. Registration and Electoral Office
59. Secretariat, Independent Police Complaints Council
60. Secretariat, Standing Commission on Civil Service Salaries and Conditions of Service
61. Secretariat, Standing Committee on Disciplined Services Salaries and Conditions of Service
62. Secretariat, University Grants Committee
63. Social Welfare Department
64. Student Financial Assistance Agency
65. Technical Education and Industrial Training Department
66. Television and Entertainment Licensing Authority
67. Territory Development Department
68. Trade and Industry Department
69. Transport Department
70. Treasury
71. Water Supplies Department
__________
| 761 | 5,452 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_TN_S_OPER.pdf
|
Q_TN_S_OPER
|
RESTRICTEDWORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONTN/S/O/PER
12 September 2003
(03-4762)
Council for Trade in Services
Special Session
PERU
Initial Offer
The following initial offer was received from the Delegation of Peru on 27 August 2003 with
the request that it be circulated to Members of the Council for Trade in Services.
_______________
This initial offer is not a legal text and is s ubmitted solely for the purpose of negotiation in the
context of paragraphs 47 and 49 of the Doha Minister ial Declaration, especially in the light of the need
to achieve an overall balance in the outcome of all World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations.
This initial offer is therefore conditional upon such a balance, for which reason Peru reserves the right
to modify and/or withdraw its offer during the course of the negotiations.
With regard to issues relating to domestic regulation and GATS (General Agreement on
Trade in Services) rules, Peru prioritizes the negotiation of horizontal disciplines in the framework of
paragraph 7 of the Guidelines and Procedures for the Negotiations on Trade in Services (document
S/L/93).
In view of the various proposals tabled on the issue of classification in a number of
subsectors, Peru reserves the right to modify this initial offer during the course of the negotiations.TN/S/O/PER
Page 3PERU – INITIAL OFFER OF SPECIFIC COMMITMENTS
Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
I. HORIZONTAL COMMITMENTS
ALL SECTORS INCLUDED IN
THIS SCHEDULE
(3) and (4) Unbound, except: In the case of natural persons providing
services and employed by service-providingcompanies in the sectors and subsectorsincluded in this Schedule who are nationals ofcountries members of the General Agreement
on Trade in Services (GATS), Peru permits
entry for a period of not more than three years,which may be extended for successive periodsof not more than three years. Such personsmay not comprise more than 20 per cent of thetotal staff employed by the enterprise and their
remuneration may not exceed 30 per cent of the
total payroll. These percentages do not apply inthe following cases:
- If the foreign services supplier is the spouse,
parent, child or sibling of a Peruvian citizen;TN/S/O/PER
Page 4Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- In the case of personnel of foreign enterprises
providing international land, air or watertransport under a foreign flag and foreignregistration;
- In the case of foreign personnel working in
multinational service enterprises or
multinational banks subject to the legalregulations applicable to these specific cases;
- In the case of foreign investors who hold a
minimum of five Peruvian tax units (Unidades
Impositivas Tributarias) throughout the term oftheir contract;
- In the case of artists, sportsmen or
sportswomen or other suppliers of services
taking part in public performances in Peru for a
maximum of three months each year.
Employers may request exemption from thepercentages concerning the number of foreignworkers and their proportion in relation to the
enterprise's payroll for specialized professional
or technical personnel in the following cases:
Managerial and/or administrative personnel
involved in new business activities orreconversion, specialized personnel recruited
for teaching purposes, personnel of public or
private enterprises with a State contract, and inany other case provided for by a SupremeDecree as a result of special expertise.TN/S/O/PER
Page 5Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
Legislative Decree No. 662, Law on the
Promotion of Foreign Investment, provides that
Foreign investors and the enterprises in which
they participate have the same rights and
obligations as domestic investors and
enterprises, the only exceptions being those laiddown in Peru's Political Constitution. and in the
aforementioned Legislative Decree.
Foreign investment must be registered with the
competent national authority . In connection
with property, Peru's Political Constitution
provides that within 50 km. of the frontier
foreigners may not under any circumstancesdirectly or indirectly purchase or own mines,land, woodland, water resources, fuel or energysources, whether individually or as a company,
on penalty of transfer of the rights thus acquired
to the State.
In addition, Legislative Decree No. 757,
Framework Law for the Promotion of Private
Investment, specifies the rights, guarantees and
obligations applicable to all domestic or
foreign natural or legal persons owning
investments in Peru in order to ensure freedom
of initiative and existing or future private
investment in all sectors included in this
Schedule and in all forms of enterprises or
contracts permitted by the Constitution and
legislation.TN/S/O/PER
Page 6Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
II. SECTOR-SPECIFIC COMMITMENTS
1. BUSINESS SERVICES
A. Professional services
(b) Accounting, auditing and
book-keeping services,solely:(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound
- Financial auditing
services(CPC 86211)
- Accounting review
services
(CPC 86212)(3)None In order to be able to provide
accounting, auditing and book-keeping
services, foreign professionals must have their
professional qualifications officially
recognized. They must also join the relevant
professional association in accordance with
Article 5 of Law No. 13253 of 11 September
1959. Accounting, auditing and book-keeping
services are governed by all provisions of the
College of Public Accountants. SBS (Banking
and Insurance Supervision Department)
Resolution No. 119-92 on the registration of
companies for external auditing also applies. (3) None
- Compilation of
financial statementsservices(CPC 86213)
- Book-keeping services,
except tax returns(CPC 86220)(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.TN/S/O/PER
Page 7Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
(d) Architectural services,
(CCP8671)
solely
other than :
-Other architectural
services
(CPC 86719)
- Advisory and pre-
design architectural
services
(CPC 86711)
- Contract
administrations
services
(CPC 86713)TN/S/O/PER
Page 8Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
-Combined architectural
design and contract
administration services
(CPC 86714)
(e) Engineering services
(CPC 8672) ,
solely other than :
-Other engineering
services
(CPC 86729)(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound
(3)None In order to be able to provide
architectural and engineering services, foreign
professionals must have their professional
qualifications officially recognized. This
requirement may be waived in the case of
reciprocal conventions. They must also join the
relevant professional association in accordance
with Article I of Law No. 24648 of 23 January
1987, which may be done on a temporary basis.
There may be a difference in the amount of the
enrolment dues for Peruvians and foreigners.(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound
(3) None, except that there may be a difference in
the amount of the enrolment fees for Peruvians
and for foreigners.
- Advisory and
consultative
engineering services
(CPC 86721)
- Engineering design
services for the
construction of
foundations and
building structures
(CPC 86722)(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
- Engineering design
services for mechanical
and electrical
installations for
buildings
(CPC 86723)TN/S/O/PER
Page 9Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Engineering design services
for the construction of
civil engineering works
(CPC 86724)TN/S/O/PER
Page 10Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Engineering design
services for industrial
processes and
production
(CPC 86725)
- Engineering design
services n.e.c.
(CPC 86726)
- Other engineering
services during the
construction and
installation phase
(CPC 86727)
(k) Other, solely:
- Management consulting
services for advice,guidanceandoperationalassistance related to
tourism development
(CPC 86509)(1) None
(2) None(3) None(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.TN/S/O/PER
Page 11Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
E. Rental/leasing services
without operators
(c) Rental/leasing services
relating to other transportequipment without
operators, solely:(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
- Leasing or rental
services concerning
private cars without
operator, without
purchase option
(CPC 83101)
F. Other business services
(a) Advertising services
solely:(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound
- Sale or leasing services
of advertising space ortime
(CPC 87110)TN/S/O/PER
Page 12Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Planning, creating and
placement services ofadvertising(CPC 87120)(3)None Commercial advertising produced or
created outside Peru and transmitted by any
communication media in the country must pay
the appropriate duties. For the purposes of
assessing and applying the tariffs, such
advertising will be treated as cinematographic
films for showing in Peru, as appropriate.
Communication media transmitting commercial
advertising produced or created outside Peru
shall require guarantees of payment of the
appropriate duties.
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
(s) Convention services
(CPC 87909*)(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None(4) None(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None(4) NoneTN/S/O/PER
Page 13Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
2. COMMUNICATIONS
SERVICES
C. Telecommunications
services
(a) Voice telephone services (1) Fixed telephone services will be under a regime
of exclusivity until June 1999.(1) None See attached sheet.
None, except that the supply of telephone
services based on call attempts made within thecountry in order to obtain a call-back with a dial
tone from networks stemming from a basic
telecommunications network located outside thenational territory is not permitted.
Interconnection among private services isprohibited.
(2) None, except that the supply of telephone
services based on call attempts made within the
country in order to obtain a call-back with a dialtone from networks stemming from a basictelecommunications network located outside thenational territory is not permitted.(2) None
(3) Fixed telephone services will be under a regime
of exclusivity until June 1999.(3) None
The number of concessionaires of a particular
service may be restricted for technical reasons.
In such cases, concessions must be granted
through public invitation to tender.
Interconnection among private services is
prohibited.TN/S/O/PER
Page 14Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
(4) None, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
(b) Packet-switched data
transmission services
(c) Circuit-switched data
transmission services
(d) Telex services(1) None for the provision of the service in local
concession areas.
Supply of the service for national and
international long-distance communications
must use the carrier services granted in
exclusivity until June 1999 inclusive.(1) None See attached sheet.
(e) Telegraph services
(f) Facsimile services
(g) Private leased circuit
services
(o) OtherPrivate leased long-distance circuit service
are considered a form of operation of carrier
services.
Until June 1999, persons who establish or have
established a private service are not authorized:
- Analogue/digital
mobile/cellular services
-P e r s o n a l
communicationservices(i) to use lines or circuits for the supply of
telecommunications services, including
signal transport and the resale of capacity
to third persons; or
- Paging services
- Mobile data services
- Trunking services(ii) to interconnect leased lines or circuits to
the public telecommunications network.
Interconnection among private services is
prohibited.
(2) None (2) None
(3) None for the provision of the service in local
concession areas.(3) NoneTN/S/O/PER
Page 15Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
The provision of the service for national and
international long-distance communications
must use the carrier services granted in
exclusivity until June 1999.
The number of concessionaires of a particular
service may be limited for technical reasons . In
such cases, concessions must be granted
through public invitation to tender.
Until June 1999, persons who establish or have
established a private service are not authorized:
(i) to use lines or circuits for the supply of
telecommunications services, including
signal transport and the resale of capacity
to third persons; or
(ii) to interconnect lease d lines or circuits to
the public telecommunications network.
Interconnection among private services is
prohibited.
(4) None, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
sectionTN/S/O/PER
Page 16Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Electronic message and
information services(CPC 75232)(1) The limits indicated in 3) below.
(2) Unbound(1) None
(2) Unbound
Only includes:
- Facsimile: fax storage
and retransmission
- Videotext- Teletext- Teletex- Teleaction
- Remote control
- Telealarm- Data storage and
retrieval
- Teleprocessing and data
processing
- Interpersonal
messaging
- Voice messaging-A d v i c e s e r v i c e- Packet-switched data
service(3)The installation and operation of a private
network, in such cases as is strictly necessary
and only as a complement to the public network
which it uses for its basic support for the
exclusive supply of value-added services,
requires special prior authorization, equivalent
to that for a private radio communication
service, to be granted by the competent
national authority. Such Authorization shall
not be granted if, in the place where the privatenetwork is to be installed, there are publiccarrier services or teleservices which can meetthe requirements of supplying the value-added
services. The definition of value added
telecommunication services included in this
Schedule can be found in Article 102 of D.S.
No. 06 94 TCC. The competent national
authority is authorized to suspend the supply ofvalue-added services when the operation
interferes with the telecommunication network.(3) NoneTN/S/O/PER
Page 17Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
Natural and legal persons who wish to supply
value added services must be entered in the
Register of Suppliers of Value Added Services
prior to commencing.
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section
.
4.DISTRIBUTION
SERVICES
B.Wholesale trade services
(CPC 622) ,
solely other than :
- Wholesale trade
services of waste andscrap and materialsfor recycling
(CPC 62278)(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound
(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound
(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section
- Wholesale trade
services of grain,
oilseeds and oleaginous
fruits, seeds and animal
feed
(CPC 62211)
- Wholesale trade
services of flowers and
plants
(CPC 62212)
- Wholesale trade
services of
unmanufactured
tobacco
(CPC 62213)TN/S/O/PER
Page 18Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Wholesale trade
services of live animals
(CPC 62214)
- Wholesale trade
services of hides and
skins and of leather
(CPC 62215)
- Wholesale trade
services of agricultural
raw materials
(CPC 62219)TN/S/O/PER
Page 19Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Wholesale trade
services of fruit and
vegetables
(CPC 62221)
- Wholesale trade
services of dairy
products, eggs and
edible oils and fats
(CPC 62222)
- Wholesale trade
services of meat,
poultry and game
(CPC 62223)
- Wholesale trade
services of fishery
products
(CPC 62224)
- Wholesale trade
services of sugar, sugar
and flour confectionery
and bakery products
(CPC 62225)TN/S/O/PER
Page 20Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Wholesale trade
services of beverages
(CPC 62226)
- Wholesale trade
services of coffee, tea,
cocoa and spices
(CPC 62227)
- Wholesale trade
services of tobacco
products
(CPC 62228)
- Wholesale trade
services of food
products
(CPC 62229)TN/S/O/PER
Page 21Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Wholesale trade
services of textiles
(CPC 62231)
- Wholesale trade
services of household
linens
(CPC 62232)
- Wholesale trade
services of articles of
clothing
(CPC 62233)
- Wholesale trade
services of fur articles
(CPC 62234)
- Wholesale trade
services of footwear
(CPC 62235)
- Wholesale trade
services of clothing
accessories
(CPC 62236)
- Wholesale trade
services of household
furniture
(CPC 62241)TN/S/O/PER
Page 22Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Wholesale trade
services of household
appliances
(CPC 62242)
- Wholesale trade
services of cutlery,
domestic metalware and
lighting articles and
equipment
(CPC 62243)
- Wholesale trade
services of radio and
television equipment,
musical instruments and
records, music scores
and tapes
(CPC 62244)
- Wholesale trade
services of glassware,
china and pottery
(CPC 62245)TN/S/O/PER
Page 23Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Wholesale trade
services of wickerwork,
cork goods, cooper's
ware and other wooden
ware
(CPC 62246)
- Wholesale trade
services of wallpaper
and floor coverings
(CPC 62247)
- Wholesale trade
services of household
appliances, articles and
equipment
(CPC 62249)
- Wholesale trade
services of
pharmaceutical and
medical goods
(CPC 62251)TN/S/O/PER
Page 24Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Wholesale trade
services of surgical and
orthopaedic instruments
and devices
(CPC 62252)
- Wholesale trade
services of perfumery,
cosmetics and soaps
(CPC 62253)
- Wholesale trade
services of paper and
paper board
(CPC 62261)
- Wholesale trade
services of books,
magazines, newspapers
and stationery
(CPC 62262)
- Wholesale trade
services of
photographic and
optical goods
(CPC 62263)
- Wholesale trade
services of games and
toys
(CPC 62264)TN/S/O/PER
Page 25Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Wholesale trade
services of watches,
clocks and jewellery
(CPC 62265)
- Wholesale trade
services of sports goods
(including bicycles)
(CPC 62266)
- Wholesale trade
services of leather
goods and travel
accessories
(CPC 62267)
- Wholesale trade
services of cleaning
materials
(CPC 62268)
- Wholesale trade
services of
miscellaneous
consumer goods
(CPC 62269)
- Wholesale trade
services of solid, liquid
and gaseous fuels and
related products
(CPC 62271)TN/S/O/PER
Page 26Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Wholesale trade
services of metal ores
and metal in primary
forms
(CPC 62272)
- Wholesale trade
services of wood in the
rough and products of
primary processing of
wood
(CPC 62273)
- Wholesale trade
services of paints,
varnishes and lacquers
(CPC 62274)
- Wholesale trade
services of construction
materials, fittings and
fixtures and flat glass
(CPC 62275)
- Wholesale trade
services of basic
industrial chemicals,
fertilizers, synthetic
resins and plastic
materials in primary
forms
(CPC 62276)TN/S/O/PER
Page 27Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Wholesale trade
services of textile fibres
(CPC 62277)
- Wholesale trade
services of intermediate
products, other than
agricultural
(CPC 62279)
C. Retail trade services
solely:
- Food retailing services
(CPC 631)(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound
(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound
(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section
- Retail sales of fruit and
vegetables
(CPC 63101)
- Retail sales of dairy
products and eggs
(CPC 63102)
- Retail sales of meat
(including poultry) and
meat products
(CPC 63103)
- Retail sales of fish and
other seafoods
(CPC 63104)TN/S/O/PER
Page 28Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Retail sales of bread
and flour confectionery
(CPC 63105)
- Retail sales of sugar
confectionery
(CPC 63106)
- Retail sales of
beverages not
consumed on the spot
(CPC 63107)
- Retail sales of tobacco
products
(CPC 63108)TN/S/O/PER
Page 29Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Specialized retail sales
of food products
(CPC 63109)
I. SPECIFIC COMMITMENTS IN FINANCIAL SERVICES
The commitments undertaken with respect to mode of supply 1 refer solely and exclusiv ely to the ability of a non-resident suppl ier of financial services to provide the
service in the territory of Peru.
The commitments undertaken with respect to mode of supply 2 refer solely and exclusively to the ability of a resident consumer to buy the service in the territory of
another Member .
The commitments undertaken with respect to modes 1 and 2 in this Schedule do not imply a commitment to allow a non-resident ser vices supplier to acquire clients or
engage in active marketing in Peru.
7. FINANCIAL SERVICES
The subsectors listed below
are defined pursuant to the
relevant Peruvianlegislation. In accordancewith the Annex on
Financial Services, the
financial system isunderstood as comprisingenterprises providing
insurance and insurance-
related services, andbanking and other financialservices (excluding
insurance).In addition to the limitations established with
respect to horizontal commitments, which cover
all services, authorization from the Banking
and Insurance Supervision Department ( SBS) is
required to provide financial services.
Financial institutions must be set up in the
form of a public limited company (sociedadanónima).
An enterprise in the financial system cannot be
a shareholder of another enterprise of the samenature. The term "enterprise of the samenature" does not include other kinds of
enterprise belonging to the financial system
that are different in nature from the enterpriseconcerned. This does not apply if shares arepurchased with a view to taking over and
merging with the enterprise that issued the
shares in question.
Persons who are directly or indirectly majorityForeign capital is treated in the same way as
domestic capital and is subject, where
appropriate, to international agreements in this
field. Exceptionally, for reasons of national or
public interest, if a Member adopts protectionist
or discriminatory measures, Peru reserves the
right to do likewise.
Foreign institutions may not make claims
through diplomatic channels in respect of
business or operations which they carry out inPeru on the basis of rights derived from theirnationality.
Peruvian creditors and foreigners domiciled in
Peru have priority rights over the assets ofbranches of foreign banks.TN/S/O/PER
Page 30Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
shareholders of an enterprise belonging to the
financial system may not hold, either directly orindirectly, more than five per cent of the sharesin another enterprise of the same nature.TN/S/O/PER
Page 31Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
The transfer of shares in an enterprise
belonging to the financial system representing
more than ten per cent of the enterprise's
capital to a single person, either directly or
through third parties, requires prior
authorization from the SBS.
Foreign financial institutions may carry out
promotional activities in Peru through a
representative in the country without having to
set up a public limited company, provided thatthey have been so authorized by the SBS.Representatives may not engage in the actual
business operations of the enterprise they
represent.
The opening of branches or agencies requires
prior authorization from the SBS.TN/S/O/PER
Page 32Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
A. All insurance and
insurance-related services
(a) Life insurance services,
exclusively
(b) Non-life insurance
services:
- Accident and health
insurance services
- motor-vehicle
insurance services
- freight insurance
services
- fire and other property
damage insurance
services
- pecuniary loss
insurance services(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) Insurance companies operating in the life-
insurance branch may establish subsidiariesoperating in general insurance branches. Total
investment in subsidiaries may not exceed
45 per cent of the net worth of the investingenterprise, except in the case of subsidiaries ofgeneral insurance companies that are
dedicated to life insurance.
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound
(3) None(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.TN/S/O/PER
Page 33Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- general liability
insurance services
- marine, aviation and
other transport
insurance services(1) Unbound
(2) None
(3) None(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(1) Unbound
(2) None
(3) None(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
(c) Reinsurance and
retrocession, exclusively:
- Reinsurance services (1) Unbound
(2)None Insurance companies may contract for
reinsurance abroad, provided that the
reinsurance companies are classified under
international standards, subject to the rules
established by the SBS. If insurance companies
contract for reinsurance directly, they must do
so with enterprises in the SBS reinsurance
register.
(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(1) Unbound
(2) None
(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.TN/S/O/PER
Page 34Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
(d) Services auxiliary to
insurance:
- Insurance broking and
agency services
- insurance consultancy
services
- average and loss
adjustment services
- inspection services(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
B. Banking and other financial
services (excluding
insurance)
(a) Acceptance of deposits and
other repayable funds fromthe public(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None, except that enterprises of the financial
system may not accept deposits on behalf of
financial institutions which are not authorized
to operate in the national territory.
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.TN/S/O/PER
Page 35Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
(b) Lending of all types,
including, inter alia ,
consumer credit, mortgage
credit, factoring and
financing of commercialtransactions(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
(c) Financial leasing with
purchase option
(d) All payment and money
transmission services,including credit, payment
and similar cards,
travellers' cheques andbank giro services
(e) Guarantees and
commitments
(f) Trading for own account or
for account of customers,
whether on an exchange, in
an over-the-counter marketor otherwise, the following:
-M o n e y m a r k e t
instruments (cheques,bills, certificates of
deposit, etc.)TN/S/O/PER
Page 36Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- foreign exchange
- derivative products
including, but not
limited to, futures andoptions
- exchange rate and
interest rate
instruments, including
products such asswaps, forward rateagreements, etc.
- transferable securities
- other negotiable
instruments and
financial assets,including bullion
(g) Participation in issues of all
kinds of securities,
including underwritingand placement as agent(whether publicly or
privately) and provision of
services related to suchissues
(h) Money broking
(i) Asset management, such as
cash or portfoliomanagement, all forms of
collective investment
management, pensionfund management,custodial depository and
trust servicesTN/S/O/PER
Page 37Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
(j) Settlement and clearing
services for financialassets, including securities,
derivative products and
other negotiableinstruments
(k) Advisory and other
auxiliary financial services
on all the activities listed inthis Schedule, includingcredit reference and
analysis, investment and
portfolio research andadvice, advice onacquisitions and on
corporate restructuring and
strategy
(l) Provision and transfer of
financial information, and
financial data processingand related software byproviders of other financial
services(1) Unbound, except with respect to information
required by financial institutions for their
duly authorized activities, without violatingbanking secrecy.
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound(1) Unbound, except with respect to information
required by financial institutions for their duly
authorized activities, without violating bankingsecrecy.
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound
9. TOURISM AND
TRAVEL-RELATEDSERVICES
A. Hotels and restaurants
- Hotel and other lodging
services
(CPC 641) solely:TN/S/O/PER
Page 38Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Hotel lodging services
(CPC 64110)
- Motel lodging services
(CPC 64120)
- Children's holiday
camp services
(CPC 64191)
- Holiday centre and
holiday home services
(CPC 64192)TN/S/O/PER
Page 39Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Letting services of
furnished
accommodation
(CPC 64193)
-Y o u t h h o s t e l a n d
mountain shelter
services
(CPC 64194)
- Camping and
caravanning site
services
(CPC 64195)
Food serving services
(CPC 642)
- Meal serving services
with full restaurant
service
(CPC 64210)
- Meal servicing services
in self-service facilities
(CPC 64220)
- Caterer services,
providing meals to
outside
(CPC 64230)TN/S/O/PER
Page 40Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3)Supreme Decree No. 006-73-IC/DS lays down
the requirements for the classification of
lodging establishments in Peru in the 5-, 4-, 3-,
2- and 1-star categories. Likewise, any service
supplier intending to operate a lodging
establishment must request an operating licence
from the Directorate-General of Tourism,
together with the licence provided for in the
Special Police Licence Regulations. Only five-
and four-star lodging establishments mayestablish gaming casinos on their premises.(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None
Supreme Decree No. 021-93-ITINCI of 15
September 1993 regulates restaurant services
in Peru, including their classification as
establishments in the first category (5 and 4
forks), second category (3 and 2 forks) or third
category (1 fork). Gaming casinos may only be
established in five-fork tourist restaurants andbuildings declared historic monuments, subjectto authorization from the National Institute of
Culture.
Likewise, any supplier of services intending to
operate a lodging and/or restaurant
establishment must apply for entry in the
Unified Register provided for in Supreme
Decree No. 118-90-PDM.
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.TN/S/O/PER
Page 41Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
B. Travel agency and tour
operator services, solely:
-Travel agency services
(CPC 74710)(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound
- Travel agency and tour
operator services(CPC 74710)(3)None In conformity with Supreme Decree No.
021-92-ICTI, travel and tourist agencies may
operate as wholesalers, retailers or both.
Wholesalers are agencies which provide tourist
services and packages to retail agencies, but
which cannot offer their products directly to the
user. Retailers are agencies which may market
products directly to the user or consumer, but
may not offer their products to other agencies.
It is possible for an enterprise to carry out both
types of activity.(3) None
In order to commence their activities, travel
and tourist agencies must be entered in the
Unified Register and submit a joint and several,
irrevocable and unconditional bond, which is
automatically convertible and of unlimited
validity, issued by a financial and/or insurance
company in favour of and to the satisfaction of
the Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Integration
and International Trade Negotiations. The bond
shall be in an amount equivalent to 20 tax units
(Unidades Impositivas Tributarias) in the case
of wholesalers, 10 tax units in the case of
retailers and 25 tax units in the case of
enterprises which engage in both types of
activity simultaneously.TN/S/O/PER
Page 42Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
10. RECREATIONAL,
CULTURAL ANDSPORTING SERVICES
A. Entertainment services
solely:
- Theatrical producer,
singer group, band and
orchestra entertainment
services(CPC 96191)
- Services provided by
authors, composers,
sculptors, entertainers
and other individualartists(CPC 96192)
- Ancillary theatrical
services n.e.c.
(CPC 96193)
- Circus, amusement
park and similar
attraction services
(CPC 96194)TN/S/O/PER
Page 43Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Ballroom, discotheque
and dance instructorservices(CPC 96195)(1) Unbound*
(2) Unbound(3)In the case of live entertainment, the relevant
legislation is Decree Law No. 19479 and
Supreme Decree No. 13-87-ED . None, except
that the proportion of Peruvian performers in
any artistic production or entertainment held ina public place in Peru shall not be less than80 per cent of the total. The remaining20 per cent may consist of foreign artists
provided that they have a contract concluded
prior to their entry in the country, an artist's visaand the corresponding inter-union permit.These percentages do not apply in the case ofperformances given by foreign casts hired assuch outside Peru and whose performance
constitutes the entire work or entertainment.
The relevant provisions of the National
Cultural Institute also apply.
(4) The same limitations as in (3) above.(1) Unbound*
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
D. Sporting and other
recreational services, solely:
- Sports event promotion
services
(CPC 96411)TN/S/O/PER
Page 44Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
- Sports event
organization services
(CPC 96412)
- Sports facility operation
services
(CPC 96413)
- Gambling and betting
services(CPC 96492)(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(1) Unbound
(2) Unbound(3) None
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section
II. TRANSPORT SERVICES
A. Maritime transport services,
solely:
- Passenger
transportation by ferriesexclusively fordomestic tourism
services
(CPC 72111)
-O t h e r p a s s e n g e r
transportation
exclusively for
domestic tourismservices(CPC 72119)TN/S/O/PER
Page 45Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
B. Internal waterways
transport, solely:
- Passenger
transportation by ferriesexclusively for
domestic tourism
services(CPC 72211)
-O t h e r p a s s e n g e r
transportation
exclusively fordomestic tourismservices(CPC 72219)
(1) The same limitations as in 3) below. (1) Unbound
(2) Unbound (2) UnboundTN/S/O/PER
Page 46Modes of supply (1) Cross-border supply (2) Consumption abroad (3) Commercial presence (4) Presence of natural persons
Sector or subsector Limitations on market access Limit ations on national treatm ent Additional commitments
(3)None Pursuant to Supreme Resolution No.
0011-78 TC/DS of 6 February 1978, all legal
persons constituted for the purpose of operating
tourist transport services must request prior
authorization for the constitution of the
company from the Directorate General for
Tourism or Regional Directorate of the
Ministry of Industry and Tourism. These bodies
may either approve or reject the application.
In addition, companies the constitution of which
has been authorized must request an operating
licence from the respective Directorate-General
of the Ministry of Transport and
Communications, in the case of enterprises
engaged in activities within the national
territory or abroad, or from the appropriate
Regional Directorate of the Ministry of
Transport and Communications, in the case of
enterprises engaged in local or regional
activities.(3) None
Tourist transport enterprises may provide the
following types of service: transfers, local visits,
excursions, round trips, tours and rental of vehicles
without operators.
(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.(4) Unbound, except as indicated in the horizontal
section.
_______________TN/S/O/PER
Page 47
ANNEX
REFERENCE PAPER
Scope
The following are definitions and principles re lating to the regulatory framework for basic
telecommunications services.
Definitions
Users mean service consumers and service suppliers.
Essential facilities mean facilities of a public tel ecommunications transport network or service that:
(a) Are exclusively or predominantly provided by a single or limited number of suppliers;
and
(b) cannot feasibly be economically or technica lly substituted in order to provide a service.
A major supplier is a supplier which has the ability to materially affect the terms of participation (having
regard to price and supply) in the relevant market for basic telecommunications services as a result of:
(a) Control over essential facilities; or
(b) use of its position in the market.
1. Competitive safeguards
1.1 Prevention of anti-competitive practices in telecommunications
Appropriate measures shall be maintained for the purpose of preventing suppliers who, alone or
together, are a major supplier from engaging in or continuing anti-competitive practices.
1.2 Safeguards
The anti-competitive practices referred to above shall include in particular:
(a) Engaging in anti-competitive cross-subsidization;
(b) using information obtained from compe titors with anti-competitive results; and
(c) not making available to other services suppliers on a timely basis technical information
about essential facilities and commercially relevant information which is necessary forthem to provide services.TN/S/O/PER
Page 48
2. Interconnection
2.1 This section applies to linking with supplie rs providing public telecommunications transport
networks or services in order to allow the users of one supplier to communicate with users of another
supplier and to access services provided by a nother supplier, where specific commitments are
undertaken.
2.2 Interconnection to be ensured
Interconnection with a major supplier shall be ensu red at any technically feasible point in the
network. Such interconnection shall be provided:
(a) Under non-discriminatory terms, conditi ons (including technical standards and
specifications) and rates and of a quality no le ss favourable than that provided for its
own like services or for like services of non-affiliated service suppliers or for itssubsidiaries or other affiliates;
(b) in a timely fashion, on terms, conditions (including technical standards and
specifications) and cost-oriented rates that ar e transparent, reasonable, having regard to
economic feasibility, and sufficiently unbundled so that the supplier need not pay for
network components or facilities that it does not require for the service to be provided;
and
(c) upon request, at points in addition to th e network termination points offered to the
majority of users, subject to charges that reflect the cost of construction of necessaryadditional facilities.
2.3 Public availability of the procedures for interconnection negotiations
The procedures applicable to interconnection to a major supplier shall be made publicly
available.
2.4 Transparency of interconnection arrangements
A major supplier shall make either its interconn ection agreements or a reference interconnection
offer publicly available.
2.5 Interconnection: Dispute settlement
A service supplier requesting interconnection to a major supplier shall have recourse, either:
(a) At any time or
(b) after a reasonable period of time which has been made publicly known to an
independent domestic body, which may be a regulatory body as referred to in paragraph
5 below, to resolve disputes regarding appropriate terms, conditions and rates forinterconnection within a reasonable period of time, to the extent that these have not
been established previously.TN/S/O/PER
Page 49
3. Universal service
Any Member has the right to define the kind of universal service obligation it wishes to
maintain. Such obligations shall not be regarded as anti-competitive per se , provided that they are
administered in a transparent, non-discriminatory and competitively neutral manner and are not more
burdensome than necessary for the kind of universal service defined by the Member.
4. Public availability of licensing criteria
Where a licence is required, the following shall be made publicly available:(a) All the licensing criteria and the period of time normally required to reach a decision
concerning an application for a licence, and
(b) the terms and conditions of individual licences.The reasons for the denial of a licence shall be made known to the applicant upon request.
5. Independent regulators
The regulatory body is separate from, and not accountable to, any supplier of basic
telecommunications services. The decisions of and pro cedures used by regulators shall be impartial with
respect to all market participants.
6. Allocation and use of scarce resources
Any procedures for the allocation and use of scarce resources, including frequencies, numbers
and rights of way, shall be carried out in an objective, timely, transparent and non-discriminatory
manner. The current state of allocated frequency bands shall be made publicly available, but detailed
identification of frequencies allocated for specific government uses is not required.
_______________TN/S/O/PER
Page 50PERU - LIST OF ARTICLE II (MFN) EXEMPTIONS
Sector or subsector Description of measure indicating
its inconsistency with Article IICountries to which the
measure appliesIntended duration Conditions creating the need for
the exemption
All sectors
(movement of naturalpersons providing
services)Nationals of a country that has a
reciprocal labour agreement or anagreement on dual nationality andforeign personnel recruited underbilateral or multilateral agreements
concluded by the Government of Peru
are not subject to the limitations onrecruitment of foreign workers, whichestablish a maximum period of threeyears and a maximum of 20 per centof the total number of employees or
30 per cent of the total payroll.All countries IndefiniteReciprocity
Dual nationalityPromotion of investment
Cooperation
Transport
Land and sea Preferential treatment is reserved for
operators of the subregion in thefollowing cases: the Andean system
of road freight carriage; international
road passenger transport: freedom ofaccess to maritime transport cargo;multi-modal transport; freedom ofaccess to freight originating in andshipped by sea within the subregion,
including cabotage.Andean Group countries Indefinite Promotion of regional integration
Land transport Agreement on International Land
Transport: grants national treatment tosignatory partiesArgentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile,
Paraguay and UruguayIndefinite Promotion of regional integrationTN/S/O/PER
Page 51Sector or subsector Description of measure indicating
its inconsistency with Article IICountries to which the
measure appliesIntended duration Conditions creating the need for
the exemption
Recreational, cultural
and sporting servicesThe law on performers provides
greater facilities for the presence ofLatin American performersinterpreting Latin American themes (ahigher quota of participation of suchperformers compared with those of
third countries).Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras,
El Salvador, Nicaragua,Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia,Venezuela, Dominican Republic,Cuba, Haiti, Ecuador, Bolivia,Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay
and ArgentinaIndefinite Promotion of Latin American co-
operation and cultural values
Financial services Peru reserves the right not to apply
the most-favoured-nation clause tocountries which do not apply it
automatically and unconditionally to
Peru, as provided for in Article II of
the GATS
.All countries Indefinite Reciprocity
With respect to national treatment for
foreign investment, exceptionally,for reasons of national or public
interest, if a Member adopts
protectionist or discriminatorymeasures, Peru reserves the right todo likewise.All countries Indefinite National or public interest
__________
| 7,513 | 52,766 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_G_TRIMS_N2R11A2.pdf
|
R_G_TRIMS_N2R11A2
|
WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION
ORGANISATION MONDIALE DU COMMERCE
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL DEL COMERCIOG/TRIMS/N/2/Rev.11/Add.2
4 November 2003
(03-5889)
Committee on Trade-Related Investment Measures
NOTIFICATIONS UNDER ARTICLE 6.2 OF THE TRIMS AGREEMENT OF
PUBLICATIONS IN WHICH TRIMS MAY BE FOUND
Addendum
El Salvador
Pursuant to Article 6.2 of the TRIMs Agreemen t, trade-related investment measures can be
found in the "Diario Oficial de la República de El Salvador".
______________________________________________________________________________
Comité des mesures concernant les
investissements et liées au commerce
NOTIFICATIONS, AU TITRE DE L'ARTICLE 6.2 DE L'ACCORD SUR LES MIC,
DES PUBLICATIONS DANS LESQUELLES LES MIC
PEUVENT ÊTRE TROUVÉES
Addendum
El Salvador
Conformément à l'article 6:2 de l'Accord sur les MIC, les mesures concernant les
investissements et liées au commerce peuvent être trouvées dans le "Diario Oficial de la República de
El Salvador".
______________________________________________________________________________
Comité de Medidas en materia de Inversiones
relacionadas con el Comercio
NOTIFICACIONES DE LAS PUBLICACIONES EN QUE FIGURAN
LAS MIC DE CONFORMIDAD CON EL PÁRRAFO 2 DEL
ARTÍCULO 6 DEL ACUERDO SOBRE LAS MIC
Addendum
El Salvador
De conformidad con lo establecido en el párrafo 2 del artículo 6 del Acuerdo sobre las MIC,
las medidas en materia de inversiones relacionadas con el comercio se publican en el Diario Oficial de
la República de El Salvador.
__________
| 207 | 1,498 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/Q_G_SCMQ2_CZE6.pdf
|
Q_G_SCMQ2_CZE6
|
RESTRICTED
WORLD TRADE G/SCM/Q2/CZE/6
5July1996
ORGANIZATION(96-2594)
Original: English Committee onSubsidies andCountervailing Measures
SUBSIDIES
Questions from TURKEY Regarding theNew
andFullNotification oftheCZECH REPUBLIC1
Thefollowing communication, dated 25June1996, hasbeenreceived from thePermanent
Mission ofTurkey.
_______________
1. What isthenature ofthe"discretionary" power given totheExport Guarantee andInsurance
Corporation (EGAP), onpage2,withregard tothedetermination oftheterms ofthesubsidy? Could
theCzech authorities givedetailed information onthisissue?
2. Onpage3,recital 5,theGovernment oftheCzech Republic reports towhom andhowthe
subsidy isprovided concerning stateguarantees onbank loans. Could theCzech Republic specify
theGovernment 'sassessment ofthestateguarantees onbankloans asdiscretionary?
3. Withregard topage3,recital 7,inwhatrespect isthematurity ofguaranteed credits determined
under theStateLoan Guarantees Programme? Please givedetails ontheduration oftheProgramme.
4. Onpage4,recital 5,regarding theconsiderations intaking decisions forproviding subsidies,
could theCzech delegation clarify whatismeant bythephrase "social importance ofaproject"?
5. Under thePromotion ofSmall andMedium-Sized Enterprises Programme Czechomoravian
Guarantee andDevelopment Bank hasdiscretion inrespect oftheterms ofthesubsidy, onpage8,
recital 5.Could theCzech authorities explain thespecific criteria, ifanyexists, inusing discretion
andclarify thesituation ofthecompanies withforeign origin onthatmatter?
1G/SCM/N/3/CZE.
| 141 | 1,547 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/R_S_GBT_W8.pdf
|
R_S_GBT_W8
|
RESTRICTED
ORGANISATION MONDIALE S/GBT/W/8
14février 1997
DUCOMMERCE(97-0705)
Original: anglais Groupe destélécommunications debase
COMMUNICATION D'ANTIGUA-ET-BARBUDA
Liste d'exemptions del'article II
Lacommunication ci-après estdistribuée auxmembres duGroupe destélécommunications
debaseàlademande d'Antigua-et-Barbuda.
_______________
./.S/GBT/W/8
Page2ANTIGUA-ET-BARBUDA -LISTE D'EXEMPTIONS DEL'ARTICLE II(NPF)
Secteur ousous-secteur Description delamesure, ycompris
lesraisons pour lesquelles elleest
incompatible avec l'article IIPays auxquels lamesure s'applique Durée projetée Conditions quirendent
l'exemption nécessaire
2.C. Services de
télécommunication
Services mobiles
(assurés pardes
systèmes
terrestres)Mesures qui,dans lecadre d'accords
régionaux, offrent auxressortissants
despays membres delaCARICOM
l'égalité detraitement avec les
ressortissants dupaysPays membres delaCARICOM Indéterminée Accord instituant lemarché
unique delaCARICOM
| 88 | 953 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_TBTNOT97_97-243.pdf
|
S_G_TBTNOT97_97-243
|
ORGANIZACI ÓNMUNDIAL G/TBT/Notif.97.243
9dejunio de1997
DEL COMERCIO
(97-2392)
Comité deObstáculos Técnicos alComercio
NOTIFICACI ÓN
Sedatraslado delanotificación siguiente deconformidad conelartículo 10.6.
1. Miembro delAcuerdo quenotifica: NORUEGA
Siprocede, nombre delgobierno localdequesetrate(artículos 3.2y7.2):
2. Organismo responsable: Organismo Noruego deLucha contra laContaminación
Pueden indicarse elorganismo olaautoridad encargados dedartrámite alas
observaciones sobre lanotificación, sinocoinciden conloindicado supra :
3. Notificación hecha envirtud delartículo 2.9.2 [X],2.10.1 [],5.6.2 [],5.7.1 [],oen
virtud de:
4. Productos abarcados (partida delSAodelaNCCA cuando corresponda; enotrocaso
partida delarancel nacional. Podrá indicarse además, cuando proceda, elnúmero de
partida delaICS): Productos microbiológicos para usos quepuedan implicar su
liberación enelmedio ambiente
5. Título, número depáginas eidioma(s) deldocumento notificado: Reglamento relativo
aladeclaración yetiquetado deproductos microbiológicos para usos quepuedan
implicar suliberación enelmedio ambiente. Nueve páginas.
6. Descripción delcontenido: Elreglamento esaplicable aladeclaración yetiquetado de
productos microbiológicos importados, fabricados ocomercializados enNoruega.
7. Objetivo yrazón deser: Impedir quelosmicroorganismos delosproductos
microbiológicos perjudiquen lasalud humana odañen elmedio ambiente.
8. Documentos pertinentes:
9. Fecha propuesta deadopción:
Fecha propuesta deentrada envigor:1ºdeenero de1998
10. Fecha límite paralapresentación deobservaciones: 1ºdeseptiembre de1997
11. Textos disponibles en:Servicio nacional deinformación [],odirección ynúmero de
telefax deotrainstitución: Norwegian Pollution Control Authority
(Organismo Noruego deLucha contra laContaminación),
P.O.Box8100 Dep,
N-0032 Oslo,
Noruega
Telefax: 22676706
| 190 | 1,852 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
WTO_99/S_G_Tbtn01_CHE10.pdf
|
S_G_Tbtn01_CHE10
|
. /.ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL
DEL COMERCIOG/TBT/N/CHE/10
28 de junio de 2001
(01-3227)
Comité de Obstáculos Técnicos al Comercio Original: inglés
NOTIFICACIÓN
Se da traslado de la notificación siguiente de conformidad con el artículo 10.6.
1. Miembro del Acuerdo que notifica: SUIZA
Si procede, nombre del gobierno local de que se trate (artículos 3.2 y 7.2):
2. Organismo responsable: Oficina Federal de Salud Pública, Berna
Nombre y dirección (incluidos los números de teléfono y de telefax, así como las
direcciones de correo electrónico y sitios Web, en su caso) del organismo o autoridad
encargado de la tramitación de observaciones sobre la notificación, en caso de que se
trate de un organismo o autoridad diferente:
National Notification Authority
State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (seco) – NTFB
Effingerstrasse 1
CH-3003 Berna
Teléfono: +41 31 324 07 82
Fax: +41 31 324 09 59
3. Notificación hecha en virtud del artículo 2.9.2 [ X ], 2.10.1 [ ], 5.6.2 [ ], 5.7.1 [ ], o en
virtud de:
4. Productos abarcados (partida del SA o de la NCCA cuando corresponda; en otro caso
partida del arancel nacional. Podrá indicarse además, cuando proceda, el número de
partida de la ICS): Generadores de aerosoles
5. Título, número de páginas e idioma(s) del documento notificado: Proyecto de
modificación de la Orden de 26 de junio de 1995 relativa a los generadores de aerosoles
(en alemán y francés, 3 páginas)
http:// www.admin.ch/bag/verbra u/lebensmi/lmrecht/revisionen/f/index.htm
6. Descripción del contenido: Se prohíbe la venta de generadores de aerosoles con sustancias
inflamables, fácilmente inflamables o extr emadamente inflamables destinados a fines
recreativos o decorativos.
7. Objetivo y razón de ser, incluida, cuando pr oceda, la índole de los problemas urgentes:
Protección de la salud; adaptación de la legislación suiza a los reglamentos de las CE.
8. Documentos pertinentes:
- Orden de 26 de junio de 1995 relativa a los generadores de aerosoles (en alemán,
francés e italiano: RS 817.045.1)http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/c817_045_1.htmlG/TBT/N/CHE/10
Página 2
- Orden de 1º de marzo de 1995 relativa a los artículos de uso diario (en alemán, francés
e italiano: RS 817.04)
http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/c817_04.html
- Ley de Productos Alimenticios de 9 de octubre de 1992 (en alemán, francés e italiano:
RS 817.0)http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/c817_0.html
9. Fecha propuesta de adopción: Por determinar
Fecha propuesta de entrada en vigor: 1º de octubre de 2001
10. Fecha límite para la presentación de observaciones: 6 de agosto de 2001
11. Textos disponibles en: Servicio nacional de información [ X] o dirección, números de
teléfono y de telefax, correo electrónico y dirección del sitio Web, en su caso, de otra
institución:
| 421 | 2,790 |
WTO_99
|
WTO
|
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.